1996 Buick Century Owner's Manual

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The 1996 Buick Century Owner’s ManualSeats and Restraint Systems .............................................................This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains “SRS” system.FeaturesandControls ..................................................................This section explains how to start and operate your Buick.Comfort Controls and Audio Systems .....................................................This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate youraudio system.YourDrivingandtheRoad ..............................................................Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.ProblemsontheRoad ..................................................................This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire oroverheated engine, etc.Service and Appearance Care ............................................................Here the manual tells you how to keep your Buick running properly and looking good.Maintenanceschedule....... ...........................................................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 publications. It alsogives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-7.Index ................................................................................Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find somethingyou want to read.1-12- 13- 14-15-16-17-18-19-1i

“valve-in-head” engine, a light, powerful and reliableengine which would eventually influence the entireautomotive industry.William C. Durant was instrumental in promotingBuicks across the country using his Durant-DortCarriage Co. outlets and salespeople as the nucleus of agiant distribution system. He knew the Buick as a“self-seller.” If automobiles could be this good, hethought, maybe it was time to switch from the horse andbuggy business to automobiles.Walter Marr and Thomas BuickBuick’s chief engineer, Walter L. Marr (left), andThomas D. Buick, son of founder David Dunbar Buick,drove the first Flint Buick in a successful Flint-Detroitround trip in July 1904.David Buick was building gasoline engines by 1899,and Marr, his engineer, apparently built the first auto tobe called a Buick in 1900. However, Buick traditionallydates its beginnings to 1903. That was the year thecompany was reorganized, refinanced and moved fromDetroit to Flint. Buick has always been a productinnovator. Buick engineers developed theWilliam C. (Billy) DurantAt the 1905 New YorkAuto Show, Durant tookorders for 1,000 Buicksbefore the company hadbuilt 40. On Buick’ssuccess, Durant created aholding company,September 16, 19081. He1 called it General Motors.

Durant also created a racing team that won 500 racingtrophies in 1909 and 1910, including successes atIndianapolis two years before the Indy 500 began.The success of Buick engines was visible not only onthe race track, but in endurance tests across the countryand around the world. Buick was the only car tocomplete a 1,000-mile Chicago-to-New York race in1906. And a Buick was the first car to travel acrossSouth America, driven from Buenos Aires, Argentina.over the Andes to Santiago, Chile in 1914.Buick drew plenty of attention because it could climb ,hills and run through mud like no other car. Buick’sendurance and reliability were world famous.During World War I, Buick built Liberty aircraft enginesas well as Red Cross ambulances so successfully thatone Buick ambulance was awarded the Croix de Guerreby the French government.As a builder of premier automobiles, Buick was hard hitby the Great Depression. However, new GeneralManager Harlow H. Curtice created popular new modelsincluding the Special and the Roadmaster. Buick salessoon flourished.1911 Model 21 Touring Cur on Buick’s Test HillFirst Buick FactoryV

In World War 11, Buick built aircraft engines, tanks andother military hardware. This post-war period broughtgreat styling and engineering changes which resulted inincreased sales. The torque converter automatictransmission, Dynaflow, was introduced in the 1948Roadmaster. Buick’s famous “portholes” came alongin 1949.A high-compression V-8 engine was introduced in 1953.And Buick’s famous vertical pillar “toothy” grille,(introduced in 1942), became more massive in thepost-war era.II953 Skylurk1949 RoadmuterMotor Trend magazine named the 1962 Buick Special“Car of the Year.” The first production V-6 engine wasused in the Special.vi

II962 Buick SpecialBuilt inside the walls of the old buildings in Buick’sformer Flint complex, which forrned the cornerstone ofGeneral Motors, Buick City is a state-of-the-artassembly facility with more than 200 robots and otherhigh-tech equipment. It was completed in the fallof 1985.Buicks are, and will continue to be, premium Americanmotorcars with smooth power, high performance, richdetail and comfortable accommodation.Ed Mertz, General Managel; Buick Motor DivisionOur mission is simple:“Buick will provide Premium American Motorcarsbacked with services that exceed our customers’expectations, throughout the purchase, ownership,service and repurchase experience.”Buicks are SUBSTANTIAL.Buicks are DISTINCTIVE.Buicks are POWERFUL.Buicks are MATURE.vii

~ withHow to Use This ManualMany people read their owner’s manual from beginningto end when they first receive their new vehicle. Ifyou do this, it will help you learn about the featuresand controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’llfind that pictures and words work together to explainthings quickly.IndexA good place to look for what you need is the Index inthe back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of allthat’s in the manual, and the page number where you’llfind it.Safety Warnings and SymbolsYou will find a number of safety cautions in this book.We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell youabout things that could hurt you if you were to ignorethe warning.I A CAUTION:These mean there is something that could hurtyou or other people.In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Thenwe tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce thehazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you orothers could be hurt.You will also find a circlea slash through it inthis book. This safetysymbol means “Don’t,’’“Don’t do this,” or “Don’tlet this happen.”

Vehicle Damage WarningsAlso, in this book you will find these notices:I NOTICE:These mean there is something that coulddamage your vehicle.not be covered by your warranty, and it could becostly. But the notice will tell you what to do to helpavoid the damage.When you read other manuals, you might seeCAUTION and NOTICE warnings in differentcolors or in different words.You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They usethe same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.In the notice area, we tell you about something that candamage your vehicle. Many times, this damage wouldix

Vehicle SymbolsThese are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.For example,these symbolsare used on anoriginal battery:ACAUTIONPOSSIBLEINJURYPROTECTEYES BYSHIELDINGCAUSTICBATTERYACID COULDCAUSEBURNSSPARK OR ,111,FLAMECOULDEXPLODEBATTERYThese symbolsare importantfor you andyour passengerswhenever yourvehicle isdriven:DOOR LOCKUNLOCKPOWERWINDOWThese symbolshave to do withyour lights:eTURNSIGNALS e30DAYTIME - aRUNNING * 'LAMPS '# 0FOG LAMPSThese symbolsare on some ofyour controls:WINDSHIELDWIPERWINDSHIELDDEFROSTERVENTILATINGFANThese symbolsare used onwarning andindicator lights:COOLANTTEMP -BATTERYCHARGING I-1SYSTEMBRAKE (a)COOLANTaENGINE OIL w,PRESSUREANTI-LOCK (@)BRAKESHere are someother symbolsyou may see:FUSELIGHTERHORNSPEAKERPFUEL p3

-ewer aeaI: (uption,Center Control (C): Move the seat forward orbackward by holding the control to the right or left.Raise or lower the seat by holding the control upor down.Rear Control (R): Raise the rear of the seat by holdingthe switch up. Hold the switch down to lower the rear ofthe seat.x 1- tEThe switch is located on thefront of the seat. To reclinethe seatback, hold theswitch up. Hold the switchdown to raise the seatback.The power seat controls are located on the front of theseat. To adjust the power seat:Front Control (F): Raise the front of the seat byholding the switch up. Hold the switch down to lowerthe front of the seat.

But don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicleis moving.Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle isin motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckleup, your safety belts can't do their job when4you're reclined like this.The shoulder belt can't do its job-because itwon't be against your body. Instead, it will be infront of you. In a crash you could go inta it,receiving neck or other injuries.The lap. belt can't do its job either. In a crash thebelt could go up over your abdomen. The beltforces would be there, not at your pelvic bones.This could cause serious internal injuries.For proper protection when the vehicle is inmotion, have the seatback upright. Then sitwell back in the seat and wear your safetybelt properly.1-3

Yead RestraintsSlide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the.restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This positionreduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.Folding Ret Seats ITo add more cargo room, the seatback of your rearsecond and optional rear-facing third seats can be easilyfolded down. Be sure to check your seatback latchesnow and then by pushing the seatback back and forth.If they do not latch properly, have them checked byyour dealer.Remember to keep safety belts clear of seat hinges andlatches so they are not damaged when you raise andlower the seatbacks.Folding Second SeatLTo lower the split second seatback:Each seat has its own release button. Hold the releasebutton down and pull the seatback forward and down.To raise the split second seatback:Lift the seatback until it locks in the upright position.Push back and forth on the seatback to be sure it islocked in place.

Folding Third Seat (Option)To lower the rear-facing third seatback:I. Open the liftgate and lift the seat release leverlocated at the lower corner of the storagecompartment on the passenger side.2. Pull the seatback toward the rear of the vehicle, thenpush it down to the locked position.1-5

3. Lower the storage compartment lid. To raise the rear-facing third seatback:If your vehicle is equipped with a roll-up cargo cover, itmust be removed before raising the seatback.1. Open the liftpate and lift the storage compartment lid.2. Fold it forward against the seatback.1-6

I3. Press down on the seat release levers (one on eachside of the seat), and allow the seatback to pop up.4. Push the seatback all the way up until it locks in theupright position. Push back and forth on the seatbackto be sure it is locked in place.1-7

Safety Belts: They’re for EveryoneThis part of the manual tells you how to use safety beltsproperly. It also tells you some things you should not dowith safety belts.And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System(SRS), or air bag system.Your car has a light thatcomes on as a reminderto buckle up. (See “SafetyBelt Warning Light” inthe Index .)Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t weara safety belt properly. If you are in a crash andyou’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuriescan be much worse. You can hit things inside thevehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriouslyinjured or killed. In the same crash, you mightnot be if you are buckled up. Always fasten yoursafety belt, and check that your passengers’ beltsare fastened properly too.In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says towear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have acrash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be soserious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive.But most crashes are in between. In many of them,people who buckle up can survive and sometimeswalk away. Without belts they could have been badlyhurt or killed.After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles,the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up doesmatter .. . a lot!1-8

Why Safety Belts WorkWhen you ride in or on anything, you go as fast asit goes.Put someone on it.Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seaton wheels.1-9

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The riderdoesn't stop.The person keeps going until stopped by something.In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield . . .1-10

or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts!With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does.You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance,and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s whysafety belts make such good sense.

How to Wear Safety Belts ProperlyAdultsThis part is only for people of adult size.Be aware that there are special things to know aboutsafety belts and children. And there are different rules forsmaller children and babies. If a child will be riding inyour Buick, see the part of this manual called “Children.”Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems yourvehicle has.We’ll start with the driver position.Driver PositionThis part describes the driver’s restraint system.Was your Buick first sold, when new, in Canada? (If itwas, a sticker on the driver’s door will say “conforms toall applicable Canada motor vehicle . . . ” etc.) If so,then this “Driver Position” part doesn’t apply to yourvehicle. To learn how to use your driver position safetybelts, read the Canadian Owner’s Manual Safety BeltSupplement. It comes with every new Century first soldin Canada.1-13

Automatic Lap-Shoulder BeltThis safety belt is called “automatic” because you don’thave to buckle up when you get into your vehicle.And you don’t have to unbuckle when you get out.Just get into your vehicle. Then close and lock the door.Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index) soyou can sit up straight.1-14

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.It’s possible that an automatic belt could keep you fromfully opening a door. That can happen if the door wasslammed shut very hard. Just close the door all the way,then slowly open it. If that doesn’t fix it, then yourBuick needs service.We hope you’ll always keep your automatic beltbuckled. However, you may need to unbuckle it in anemergency. And you would need to unbuckle it to letsomeone get into the center front seat position, if yourvehicle has one.The lap belt should be worn as low on the hips aspossible. In a crash, this applies force to the strongpelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under thelap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply forceat your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatalinjuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulderand across the chest. These parts of the body are bestable to take belt restraining forces.

@ What's wrong with this?CAUTION:You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt istoo loose. In a crash, you would move forwardtoo much, which could significantly increaseinjury. The shoulder belt should fit againstyour body.A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won't give nearlyas much protection this way.1-17

What’s wrong with this?II AIL L LJTION:You can be seriously injured if your belt isbuckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash,the belt would go up over your abdomen. The beltforces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. Thiscould cause serious internal injuries. Alwaysbuckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.IA: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

@ What’s wrong with this?A CTION:AYou can be seriously injured if you wear theshoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, yourbody would move too far forward, which wouldincrease the chance of head and neck injury.Also, the belt would apply too much force to theribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones.You could also severely injure internal organslike your liver or spleen.A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It shouldbe worn over the shoulder at all times.1-19

&.’ What’s wrong with this?A I-QUTION:You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. Ina crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of thebelt to take impact forces. If a belt is twisted,make it straight so it can work properly, or askyour dealer to fix it.A: The belt is twisted across the body.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) or air bag system.Your Buick has an air bag for the driver.Here are the most important things to know about the airbag system:/11 CAU I ION:You can be severely injured or killed in a crash ifyou aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if youhave an air. bag. Wearing your safety belt during acrash helps reduce your chance of hitting thingsinside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air ’bag is only a “supplemental restraint.” That is, itworks with safety belts but doesn’t replace them.Air bags are designed to work only in moderate tosevere crashes where the front of your vehicle hitssomething. They aren’t designed to inflateall inrollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes.Everyone in your vehicle, including the driver,should wear a safety belt properly -- whether ornot there’s an .-air bag for that person.1J’LAir bags inflate with great force, faster than theblink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflatingair bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety beltshelp keep you in position for an air bag inflationin a crash. Always wear your safety belt, evenwith an air bag, and sit as far back as you canwhile still maintaining control of your vehicle.AIRBAG-There is an air bagreadiness light on theinstrument panel, whichshows AIR BAG.The system checks the air bag’s electrical system formalfunctions. The lightells you if there is an electricalproblem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Indexfor more information.1-21

~~ ~~ ~ ~ ~~~Ha th Air Bag bystc 1 Works Where is the air bag?The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.I,CAUTION:Don’t put anything on, or attach anything to, thesteering wheel. Also, don’t put anything (such aspets or objects) between the driver and thesteering wheel. If something is between anoccupant and an air bag, it could affect theperformance of the air bag -- or worse, it couldcause injury.1-22

When should an air bag inflate?The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severefrontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will inflateonly if the impact speed is above the system’s designed“threshold level.’’ If your vehicle goes straight into awall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level isabout 9 to 15 mph (14 to 24 km/h). The threshold levelcan vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so thatit can be somewhat above or below this range. If yourvehicle strikes something that will move or deform, suchas a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. Theair bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, sideimpacts or rear impacts, because inflation would nothelp the occupant.In any particular crash, no one can say whether an airbag should have inflated simply because of the damageto a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were.Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact andthe vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle damage is only oneindication of this.What makes an air bag inflate?In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity,the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle issuddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensingsystem triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azidesealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogengas, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag andrelated hardware are all part of the air bag modulepacked inside the steering wheel.How does an air bag restrain?In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions,even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel.The air bag supplements the protection provided bysafety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impactmore evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stoppingthe occupant more gradually. But air bags would nothelp you in many types of collisions, includingrollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarilybecause an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag.Air bags should never be regarded as anything morethan a supplement to safety belts, and then only inmoderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions.1-23

What will you see after an air bag inflates?After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occursso quickly that some people may not even realize the airbag inflated. Some components of the air bag module inthe steering wheel hub will be hot for a short time. Thepart of the bag that comes into contact with you may bewarm, but it will never be too hot to touch. There will besome smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflatedair bag. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driverfrom seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, norwill it stop people from leaving the vehicle.rWhen an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air.This dust could cause breathing problems forpeople with a history of asthma or otherbreathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in thevehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so.If you have breathing problems but can’t get outof the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then getfresh air by opening a window or door.0a0The air bag is designed to inflate only once. After itinflates, you’ll need some new parts for your air bagsystem. If you don’t get them, the air bag systemwon’t be there to help protect you in another crash.A new system will include the air bag module andpossibly other parts. The service manual for yourvehicle covers the need to replace other parts.Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module,which records information about the air bag system.The module records information about the readinessof the system, when the sensors are activated anddriver’s safety belt usage at deployment.Let only qualified technicians work on your air bagsystem. Improper service can mean that your airbag system won’t work properly. See your dealerfor service.NOTICE:If you damage the cover for the driver’s air bag,it may not work properly. You may have toreplace the air bag module. Do not open or breakthe air bag cover.1-24

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped BuickThe air bag affects how your Buick should be serviced.There are parts of the air bag system in several placesaround your vehicle. You don’t want the system toinflate while someone is working on your vehicle. YourBuick dealer and the Century Service Manual haveinformation about servicing your vehicle and the air bagsystem. To purchase a service manual, see “Service andOwner Publications” in the Index.Safety Belt Use During PregnancySafety belts work for everyone, including pregnantwomen. Like all occupants, they are more likely to beseriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.For up to two minutes after the ignition key isturned off and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still inflate during improper service. Youcan be injured if you are close to an air bag whenit inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape,or yellow connectors. They are probably part ofthe air bag system. Be sure to follow properservice procedures, and make sure the personperforming work for you is qualified to do so.The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, andthe lap portion should be worn as low as possible, belowthe rounding, throughout the pregnancy.1-25

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect themother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s morelikely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. Forpregnant women, as for anyone, the key to makingsafety belts effective is wearing them properly.Right Front Passenger PositionWas your Buick first sold, when new, in Canada? (If itwas, a sticker on the driver’s door will say “conforms toall applicable Canada motor vehicle . . . ” etc.) If so,then this “Right Front Passenger Position” part doesn’tapply to your vehicle. To learn how to use your rightfront passenger position safety belts, read the CanadianOwner’s Manual Safety Belt Supplement. It comes withevery new Century first sold in Canada.The right front passenger’s safety belt works the sameway as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,”earlier in this section.Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)so you can sit up straight. Move your seat far enoughforward that your feet touch the part of the car that iscalled the “toeboard” (A). That way you’d be lesslikely to slide under the lap belt in a crash.1-26

Center Passenger Position andAny Station Wagon Third SeatPassenger PositionLap BeltIf your vehicle has a front split seat and a rear benchseat; someone can sit in the center positions.When you sit in a center seating position or in a stationwagon third seat, you.have a lap safety belt, which hasno retractor. To make the belt longer, ,tilt the latch plateand pull it along the belt.1-27

Rear Seat PassengersIt’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up!Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rearseat are hurt more often in crashes than those who arewearing safety belts.Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrownout of the vehicle in a crash. And’they can strike othersin the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.Rear Seat Outside Passenger PositionsTo make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown untilthe belt is snug.Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lappart of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough,see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section.Make sure the release button on the buckle is positionedso you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quicklyif you ever had to.1-28

=Shoulder BeltThe positions next to the windows have lap-shoulderbelts. 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.2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latchplate and keep pulling until you can buckle it.Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety BeltExtender’’ at the end of this section. Make sure therelease button on the buckle is positioned so you wouldbe able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you everhad to.1-29

I I I 1 I I I I, I I I I I3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckleend of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug onthe hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this appliesforce to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likelyto slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the beltwould apply force at your abdomen. This could causeserious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should goover the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of thebody are best able to take belt restraining forces.The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.1-30

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt istoo loose. In a crash, you would move forwardtoo much, which could increase injury. Theshoulder belt should fit against your body.ChildrenEveryone in a vehicle needs protection! That includesinfants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact,the law in every state in the United States and in everyCanadian province says children up to some age must berestrained while in a vehicle.To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.I A CAUTION:Smaller children and babies should always berestrained in a child or infant restraint. Theinstructions for the restraint will say whether it isthe right type and size for your child. A veryyoung child’s hip bones are so small that aregular belt might not stay low on the hips, as itshould. Instead, the belt will likely be over thechild’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would applyforce right on the child’s abdomen, which couldcause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure thatany child small enough for one is always properlyrestrained in a child or infant restraint.1-31

CAUTION: (Continued)heavy you can't hold it. For example, in a crashat only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-1b. (5.5 kg) babywill suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force onyour arms. The baby would be almost impossibleto hold.Secure the baby in an infant restraint.I.Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in avehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much -- until acrash. During a crash a baby will become soCAUTION: (Continued)1-32

Child RestraintsBe sure the child restraint designed is to be used in avehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meetsFederal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You mayfind these instructions on the restraint itself or in abooklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system inyour vehicle, but the child also has to be secured withinthe restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury.The instructions that come with the infant or childrestraint will show you how to do that.Where to Put the RestraintAccident statistics show that children are safer if theyare restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We atGeneral Motors therefore recommend that you put yourchild restraint in the rear seat unless the child an isinfant and you’re the only adult in the vehicle. In thatcase, you might want to secure the restraintthe frontseat where you can keep an eye on the baby.Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the childrestraint properly.Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can movearound in a collision or sudden stop and injure people inthe vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any childrestraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.Top StrapIf your child restraint has a top strap, it should beanchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, youcan ask your Buick dealer to put it in for you. If youwant to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tellyou how to do it.If you want to use a child restraint with a top strap in thesecond seat of a station wagon, have your dealer install acombination anchor-tether belt to which the top strapcan be hooked.

For cars first sold in Canada, child restraints with a topstrap must be anchored according to Canadian law.Your dealer can obtain the hardware kit and install it foryou, or you may install it yourself using the instructionsprovided in the kit.Use the tether hardware kit available from the dealer.The hardware and installation instructions werespecifically designed for this vehicle.3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulderportions of the vehicle’s safety belt through oraround the restraint. The child restraint instructionswill show you how.You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier partabout the top strap if the child restraint has one.1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructionsfor the child restraint.2. Secure the child in the child restraint as theinstructions say.Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed.If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face orneck, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button ispositioned so you would be able to unbuckle thesafety belt quickly if you ever had to.5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt whileyou push down on the child restraint.6. Push and pull the child restraint in differentdirections to be sure it is secure.To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’ssafety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety beltwill move freely again and be ready to work for an adultor larger child passenger.

Securing a Child Restraint in a CenterSeat PositionUYou'll be using the lap belt.See the earlier part about the top strap if the childrestraint has one.1-361.2.3.4.Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latchplate and pulling it along the belt.Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructionsfor the child restraint.Secure the child in the child restraint as theinstructions say.Run the vehicle's safety belt through or around therestraint. The child restraint instructions will showyou how.

5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button ispositioned so you would be able to unbuckle thesafety belt quickly if you ever had to.6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you pushdown on the child restraint.7. Push and pull the child restraint in differentdirections to be sure it is secure. If it isn’t, secure therestraint in a different place in the vehicle andcontact the child restraint maker for their adviceabout how to attach the child restraint properly.To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’ssafety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or largerchild passenger.1-37

ing a Child Restraint in the Right.t Seat PC -ticWas your two-door Buick first sold, when new, inCanada? (If it was, a sticker on the driver’s door will say“conforms to all applicable Canada motor vehicle . . .etc.) If so, then this “Securing a Child Restraint in theRight Front Seat Position (2-Door Mode1.s)” part doesn’tapply to your vehicle. To learn how to secure a childrestraint in the right front seat, read the CanadianOwner’s Manual Safety Belt Supplement. It comes withevery new Century first sold in Canada.9,To use a child restraint here, you will need a specialinfantkhild seat attaching belt and the hardware thatgoes with it. See the earlier part about the top strap if thechild restraint has one.Your dealer can order the belt and attaching hardwareand install the hardware for you. It’s free. The specialbelt is GM Part No. 12340286. Your dealer can find thepart number for the correct attaching hardware in theaccessory section of the GM Parts Catalog.1-38

A CAUTION:Don’t use the speciaI infantlchild seat attachinghardware in another vehicle. If you do, it may notwork well and the child may not be protectedproperly in a crash. The special hardware is foryour vehicle only.Also, don’t use the special belt for anything butsecuring a child restraint in the right front seat.If an adult or older child uses it, the belt won’tprovide protection and may even increase injuryin a crash.Once the special hardware is installed, please follow theinstructions with it and these steps:1. Unbuckle the automatic lap-shoulder belt bypushing the button on the buckle. It will stay onthe door, ready to be rebuckled for use by adults orolder children.

2. Snap one hook of the infantkhild seat attaching beltnear the floor at the door side of the seat.3. Put the belt's special latch plate into the vehicle'ssafety belt buckle.

4. You can make the belt longer by tilting the buckleand pulling it along the belt.5. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructionsfor the child restraint.6. Secure the child in the child restraint as theinstructions say.7. Run the belt through or around the child restraint.The child restraint instructions will show you how.8. Put the hook on the free end through the slot in thelatch plate.1-41

9.10.To make it tight, pull the belt while you push downon the child restraint. If the belt won’t stay tight,switch it end for end.Push and pull the child restraint in differentdirections to be sure it is secure.Removing the InfantlChild Seat Restraint1. Push the button on the safety belt buckle and removethe special latch plate. Leave the latch plate on thespecial belt.1-422. Push the spring on the hook near the door andremove the special belt.3. Put the belt away in a safe place in your vehicle, so itwon’t fly around in a crash and injure someone.4. Remember to reattach the automatic belt again,once the child restraint is removed. Be sure itisn’t twisted.

Larger ChildrenChildren who have outgrown child restraints shouldwear the vehicle’s safety belts.If you have the choice, a child should sit next to awindow so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt andget the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.Accident statistics show that children are safer if theyare restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use thesafety belts properly.0 Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown outin a crash.0 Children who aren’t buckled up can strike otherpeople who are.1-43

Never do this.Here two children me wearing the same belt. Thebelt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In acrash, the two children can be crushed togetherand seriously injured. A belt must be used byonly one person at a time.e.’ What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt,but the child is so small that the shoulder belt isvery close to the child’s face or neck?A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, butbe sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’sshoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper bodywould have the restraint that belts provide. If thechild is so small that the shoulder belt is still veryclose to the child’s face or neck, you might want toplace the child in the center seat position, the onethat has only a lap belt.1-44

Never do this.Here a child is sitting in a seat that has alap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behindthe child. If the child wears the belt in this way, ina crash the child might slide under the belt. Thebelt’s force would ‘then be applied right on thechild’s abdomen. That could cause serious orfatal injuries.Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the beltshould be worn low and snug on the hips, just touchingthe child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’spelvic bones in a crash.1-45

Safety Belt ExtenderIf the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, youshould use it. The front seat lap-shoulder belts haveplenty of extra length built in, so they will fit almostall people.But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, yourdealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you goin to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so theextender will be long enough for you. The extender willbe just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle thatyou choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use itonly for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach itto the regular safety belt.Checking Your Restraint SystemsNow and then, make sure the safety belt warning lightand all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors andanchorages are working properly. Look for any otherloose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you seeanything that might keep a safety belt system fromdoing its job, have it repaired.Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in acrash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt istorn or frayed, get a new one right away.Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, andhave them repaired or replaced. (The air bag systemdoes not need regular maintenance.)Replacing Restraint System PartsAfter a CrashIf you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts?After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if wornduring a more severe crash, then you need new belts.If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collisiondamage also may mean you will need to have safety beltor seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairsmay be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used atthe time of the collision.If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bagsystem parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier inthis section.

Here you can learn about the many standard andoptional features on your Buick, and information on*starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are theinstrument panel and the warning systems that tell you ifeverything is working properly -- and what to do if youhave a problem.KeysI A CAUTION:Leaving young children in a vehicle with theignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A childor others could be badly injured or even killed.They could operate power windows or othercontrols or even make the vehicle move. Don’tleave the keys in a vehicle with young children.2-1

The ignition keys areWhen a new Century is delivered, the dealer removes theplugs from the keys, and gives them to the first owner.Each plug has a code on it that tells your dealer or aqualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep theplugs in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you'll beable to have new ones made easily using these plugs.1 I'NOTICE:-1 The door keys are for theYour Buick has a number of new features thatcan help prevent theft. But you can have a lotof trouble getting into your vehicle if you everlock your keys inside. You may even have todamage your vehicle to get in. So be sure youhave extra keys.2-2

Door LocksUnlocked doors can be dangerous.Passengers -- especially children -- can easilyopen the doors and fall out. When a door islocked, the inside handle won’t open it.Outsiders can easily enter through an unlockeddoor when you slow down or stop your vehicle.This may not be so obvious: You increase thechance of being thrown out of the vehicle in acrash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety beltsproperly, lock your doors, and you will be farbetter off whenever you drive your vehicle.There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.From the outside, use your door key or Remote KeylessEntry transmitter, if your vehicle has this option.From the inside, to lock thedoor, slide the lock controlon the door rearward.To unlock the door, slide thelock control forward.\2-3

Power Door LocksAutomatic Door LocksPress the power door lockswitch on either front doorto lock or unlock all thedoms atmce.Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. All of thedoors will automatically lock when you move your shiftlever out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If someoneneeds to get out while the vehicle is running, have thatperson use the manual or power lock. When the door isclosed again, it will lock automatically if the transaxle isin gear. All doors will automatically unlock when youturn the ignition off.If you don’t want the doors to automatically unlockwhen the key is turned OFF, you can remove theUNLOCK fuse located in the glove box. See “Fuses andCircuit Breakers” in the Index for more information.Leaving Your VehicleIf you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open yourdoor and set the locks from inside. Then get out andclose the door.Remote Keyless Entry System(Option)If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlockyour doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet (9 m)away using the key chain transmitter supplied withyour vehicle.2-4

Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on a radiofrequency subject to Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) Rules.This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.Operation is subject to the following two conditions:( 1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and(2) This device must accept any interference received,including interference that may cause undesired operation.Should interference to this system occur, try this:Check to determine if battery replacement isnecessary. See the instructions on battery replacement.0 Check the distance. You may be too far from yourvehicle. This product has a maximum range.Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may beblocking the signal.0 See your Buick dealer or a qualified technicianfor service.Changes or modifications to this system by other than anauthorized service facility could void authorization touse this equipment.lperatfhe drwer’s door will unlock and the interior lamps willgo on when UNLOCK is pressed. If pressed againwithin five seconds, all doors will unlock. The interiorlamps will go out after 40 seconds or when you turn onthe ignition.All doors will lock when DOOR is pressed.Press the opened trunk symbol to unlock the trunk orwagon liftgate. The transaxle must be in PARK (P). Ifyou have the wagon, the ignition must also be OFF.

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your VehicleEach key chain transmitter. is coded to prevent anothertransmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitteris lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased throughyour dealer. Remember to bring any remainingtransmitters with you when you go to your dealer. Whenthe dealer matches the replacement transmitter to yourvehicle, any remaining transmitters must also bematched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the losttransmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehiclecan have only two transmitters matched to it.Battery ReplacementUnder normal use, the batteries in your key chaintransmitter should last about two years.You can tell the batteries are weak if the transmitterwon’t work at the normal range in any location. If youhave to get close to your vehicle before the transmitterworks, it’s probably time to change the batteries.For battery replacement, use two Duracella batteries,ITo replace batteries:1. Carefully pry off the cover by inserting a dime (orsimilar object) in a slot between the covers and twist.2.3.4.5.Lift off the front cover, bottom half first.Remove and replace the batteries.Reassemble the transmitter. Make sure the coveris on tightly, so water won’t get in and snap thecover together.Check the transmitter operation.

TrunkLiftgatec-- ~-A CAUTION:Trunk LockTo unlock the trunk fromthe outside, insert the doorkey and turn it clockwise.It can be dangerous to drive with the liftgate,liftglass or trunk lid open because carbonmonoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle.You can’t see or smell CO. It can causeunconsciousness and even death.If you must drive with the liftgate, liftglass ortrunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cableconnections must pass through the seal betweenthe body and the liftgate, liftglass or trunk lid:Make sure all windows are shut.Turn the fan on your heating or coolingsystem to its highest speed with the settingon NORM or VENT. That will force outsideair into your vehicle. See “ComfortControls” in the Index.If you have air outlets on or under theinstrument panel, open them all the way.See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.Remote Trunk or Liftgate ReleaseYou’ll find the releasebutton in the glove box.The trunk will unlockanytime the ignition is onor off. If you have thewagon, the liftgate wi1.lunlock when the ignition ison, and the transaxle is inPARK (P).2-7

Wagon Liftgate &BerationThe liftgate on your wagon has a liftglass and a liftgate.NOTICE:__~__ ~~Be sure there are no overhead obstructionsbefore you open the liftgate. You could slam theliftgate into something and break the glass.Turn the key to the right to unlatch the liftgate, thenpull up on the bottom of the liftgate. To close, pulldown on the handle inside the liftgate, then firmly shutthe liftgate.2-8

Turn the key to the left to release the liftgate glass.Then, pull the glass up by the handle. To close, lowerthe glass until the latch catches.TheftVehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.Although your Buick has a number of theft-deterrentfeatures, we know that nothing we put on it can makeit impossible to steal. However, there are ways youcan help.Key in the IgnitionIf you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s aneasy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- sodon’t do it.When you park your Buick and open the driver’s door,you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your keyfrom the ignition and take it with you. Always do this.Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will yourignition and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors.Parking at NightPark in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock yourvehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight.Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.Parking LotsIf you park in a lot where someone will be watchingyour vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys.But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What ifyou have to leave something valuable in your vehicle?@Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunkor glove box.0 Lock the glove box.Lock all the doors except the driver’s.0 Then take the door key with you.2-9

’ NewVehicle “Break-In”NOTICE:Your modern Buick doesn’t need an elaborate“break-in.” But it will perform better in the longrun if you follow these guidelines:000Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast orslow -- for the first 500 miles (804 km).Don’t make full-throttle starts.Avoid making hard stops for the first200 miles (322 km) or so. During this timeyour new brake linings aren’t yet brokenin. Hard stops with new linings can meanpremature wear and earlier replacement.Follow this breaking-in guideline everytime you get new brake linings.Don’t tow a trailer during break-in. See“Towing a Trailer” in the Index for moreinformation.Ignition PositionsWith the ignition key in the ignition switch, you canturn the switch to five positions.ACCESSORY (A): Position in which you can operateyour radio or windshield wipers. Press in the ignitionswitch as you turn the top of it toward you.LOCK (B): The only position in which you canremove the key. This locks your steering wheel,ignition and transaxle.C2-10

OFF (C): Unlocks the steering wheel, ignition, andtransaxle, but does not send electrical power to anyaccessories. Use this position if your vehicle must bepushed or towed, but never try to push-start yourvehicle. A warning chime will sound if you open thedriver’s door when the ignition is off and the key is inthe ignition.RUN (D): Position to which the switch returns after youstart your engine and release the switch. The switchstays in the RUN position when the engine is running.But even when the engine is not running, you can useRUN to operate your electrical power accessories, andto display some instrument panel warning lights.START (E): Starts the engine. When the engine starts,release the key. The ignition switch will return to RUNfor normal driving.NOTICE:If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’tturn it, be sure it is all the way in. If it is, thenturn the steering wheel left and right while youturn the key hard. But turn the key only withyour hand. Using a tool to force it could breakthe key or the ignition switch. If none of thisworks, then your vehicle needs service.2-11

Starting Your EngineMove your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s asafety feature. To restart when you’re already moving,use NEUTRAL (N) only.I NOTICE:Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Buick ismoving. If you do, you could damage thetransaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when yourvehicle is stopped.Starting Your 2.2 Liter Engine1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn yourignition key to START. When the engine starts, letgo of the key. The idle speed will go down as yourengine gets warm.NOTICE:Holding your key in START for longer than15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to bedrained much sooner. And the excessive heat candamage your starter motor.2. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but thenstops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline.Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to thefloor and holding it there as you hold the key inSTART for about three seconds. If the car startsbriefly but then stops again, do the same thing, butthis time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds.This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.2-12

NOTICE:Your engine is designed to work with theelectronics in your vehicle. If you add electricalparts or accessories, you could change the waythe engine operates. Before adding electricalequipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t,your engine might not perform properly.If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, seethe part of this manual that tells how to do itwithout damaging your vehicle. See “TowingYour Vehicle” in the Index.Starting Your 3.1 Liter Engine1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn yourignition key to START. When the engine starts, letgo of the key. The idle speed will go down as yourengine gets warm.NOTICE:Holding your key in START for longer than15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to bedrained much sooner. And the excessive heat candamage your starter motor.2. If your engine won’t start (or starts but then stops), itcould be flooded with too much gasoline. Trypushing your accelerator pedal all the way to thefloor and holding it there as you hold the key inSTART for up to 15 seconds. This clears the extragasoline from the engine.2-13

NOTICE:Engine Coolant Heater (Option)Your engine is designed to work with theelectronics in your vehicle. If you add electricalparts or accessories, you could change the waythe engine operates. Before adding electricalequipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t,your engine might not perform properly.If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, seethe part of this manual that tells how to do itwithout damaging your vehicle. See “TowingYour Vehicle’’ in the Index.In very cold weather, 0” F (-‘18 O C) or colder, the enginecoolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and Ibetter fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually,the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum offour hours prior to starting your vehicle.

10 use the coolant heater:1. Turn off the engine.2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrongkind of extension cord could overheat and causea fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug thecord into a properly grounded three-prong110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use aheavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated forat least 15 amps.4. After you’ve used the coolant heater, be sure tostore the cord as it was before to keep it awayfrom moving engine parts. If you don’t, it couldbe damaged.How long should you keep the coolant heater pluggedin? The answer depends on the outside temperature, thekind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead oftrying to list everything here; we ask that you contactyour Buick dealer in the area where you’ll be parkingyour vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice forthat particular area.2-15

Automatic Transaxle OperationYour shift lever is located on the steering column.There are several different positions for your shift lever.IPRNpl321PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the bestposition to use when you start your engine because yourvehicle can’t move easily.IA CAUTION:IIt is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if theshift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with theparking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine isrunning unless you have to. If you have the leftengine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.You or others could be injured. To be sure yourvehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairlylevel ground, always set your parking brake andmove the shift lever to PARK (P).See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. Ifyou’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer”in the Index.2-16

REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.NOTICE:Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle ismoving forward could damage your transaxle.Shift to WVERSE (R) only after your vehicle isstopped.To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow,ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see“Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’tconnect with the wheels. To restart when you’realready moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, useNEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.I A CAUTION:Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) whileyour engine is “racing” (running at high speed) isdangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on thebrake pedal, your vehicle could move veryrapidly. You could lose control and hit people orobjects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) orNEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0): If your automatictransaxle has AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@), thisposition is for normal driving. If you need more powerfor passing, and you’re:- Going less than 35 mph (56 km/h), push youraccelerator pedal about halfway down.- Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push theaccelerator all the way down.You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.2-17

THIRD (3) or DRIVE (D): If your automatic transaxledoes not have AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@),DRIVE (D) is for normal driving, at all speeds, in moststreet and highway situations.If your automatic transaxle has overdrive, THIRD (3) isalso used for normal driving, however, it offers morepower and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATICOVERDRIVE (a).Here are some times you might choose THRD (3) orDRIVE (D) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (a):- When driving on hilly, winding roads.- When towing a trailer, so there is less shiftingbetween gears.- When going down a steep hill.SECOND (2): This position gives you more power butlower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills.It can help control your speed as you go down steepmountain roads, but then you would also want to useyour brakes off and on.2-18

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power(but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). Youcan use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud.If the selector lever is put FIRST in (I), the transaxlewon’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is goingslowly enough.NOTICE:If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try todrive. This might happen if you were stuck invery deep sand or mud or were up against a solidobject. You could damage your transaxle.Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t holdyour vehicle there with only the acceleratorpedal. This could overheat and damage thetransaxle. Use your brakes to hold your vehicle inposition on a hill.Parking BrakeTo set the parking brake,hold the regular brake pedaldown with your right footand push down the parkingbrake pedal with your left.foot. If the ignition is on,the.brake system warninglight will come on.To release the parkingbrake, hold the regularbrake pedal down. Pull thebrake release lever.2-19

~NOTICE:Driving with the parking brake on can causeyour rear brakes toverheat. You may have toreplace them, and you could also damage otherparts of vour vehicle.If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill,see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section showswhat to do first to keep the trailer from moving.Shifti 3 In’ PAnK (P)4It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if‘the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with theparking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.If you have lefthe engine running, the vehiclecan move suddenly. You or others could beinjured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, evenwhen you’re on fairly level ground, use the stepsthat follow. If you’re pulling a trailer, see“Towing a Trailer” in the Index.1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot andset the parking brake with your left foot.2-20

2. Move the shift lever into the PARK (P) positionlike this:Pull the lever toward you.Move the lever up as far as it will go.3. Move the ignition key to LOCK.4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you canleave your vehicle with the ignition key in yourhand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).2-21

Leaving Your Vehicle With theEngine RunningA CAUTIONIt can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with theengine running. Your vehicle could movesuddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P)with the parking brake firmly set. And, if youleave the vehicle with the engine running, it couldoverheat and even catch fire. You or others couldbe injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with theengine running unless you have to.If you have to leave your vehicle with the enginerunning, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and yourparking brake is firmly set before you leave it. Afteryou’ve moved the shift lever into the PARK (P)position, hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see ifyou can move the shift lever away from PARK (P)without first pulling it toward you. If you can, it meansthat the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).Note: If for some reason you leave your vehicle runningand it is not in PARK (P) and the parking brake isapplied, your doors will automatically lock when youclose the door.Torque LockIf you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift yourtransaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of thevehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl inthe transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shiftlever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” Toprevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shiftinto PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’sseat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” inthe Index.When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out ofPARK (P) before you release the parking brake.If torque lock does occur, you may need to have anothervehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of thepressure from the transaxle, so you can pull the shiftlever out of PARK (P).2-22

Shifting Out of PARK (P)Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. Youhave to fully apply your regular brake to shift fromPARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN position.See “Automatic Transaxle Operation” in the Index.If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure onthe shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way intoPARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Thenmove the shift lever into the gear you want. If you everhold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out ofPARK (P), try this:1.2.3.4.5.Turn the key to OFF.Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4.Shift to NEUTRAL (N).Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gearyou want.Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.Parking Over Things That BurnA- ICAUTION:Things that can burn could touch hot exhaustparts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t parkover papers, leaves, dry grass or other things thatcan burn.2-23

Engine ExhaustA, CAUTION:Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gascarbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see orsmell. It can cause unconsciousness and death.You might have exhaust coming in if:0 Your exhaust system sounds strange ordifferent.0 Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.0 Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.0 Your vehicle was damaged when driving overhigh points on the road or over road debris.Repairs weren’t done correctly.0 Your vehicle or exhaust system had beenmodified improperly.If you ever suspect exhaust is coming intoyour vehicle:Drive it only with all the windows down toblow out any CO; and0 Have your vehicle fixed immediately.Running Your Engine WhileYou’re ParkedIt’s better not to park with the engine runn,ing. But if youever have to, here are some things to k IW.Idling the engine with the air system control offcould allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle(see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”).Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadlycarbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even ifthe fan switch is at the highest setting. One placethis can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- withCO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in agarage with the engine running.Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See“Blizzard” in the Index.)2-24

-A CAUTION:It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle ifthe shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with theparking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine isrunning unless you have to. If you’ve left theengine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.You or others could be injured. To be sure yourvehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairlylevel ground, always set your parking brake andmove the shift lever to PARK (P).WindowsPower WindowsFollow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’tmove. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index.If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling atrailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.With power windows, switches on the driver’s armrestcontrol each of the windows when the ignition is on. Inaddition, each passenger door has a control switch for itsown window.2-25

Wagon Rear Vent Windows (Option)Tilt WheelrTO open, pull the latch forward, then push on thecenter of the latch to swing the window out into theopen position.To close the window, pull the center of the latch andthen press the latch into the closed position.HornYou can sound the horn by pressing the horn symbol onyour steering wheel.A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steeringwheel before you drive.You can also raise it to the highest level to give yourlegs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull thelever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level,then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.2-26

Wrn SignaVMultifunction LeverTurn Signal and Lane Change IndicatorThe turn signal has two upward (for right) and twodownward (for left) positions. These positions allowyou to signal a turn or a lane change.To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up ordown. When the turn is finished, the lever will returnautomatically.An arrow on the instrumentpanel will flash in thedirection of the turn orlane change.The lever on the left side of the steering columnincludes your:Turn Signal and Lane Change IndicatorHeadlamp High/Low Beam Changer andPassing SignalWindshield WipersWindshield Washer0 Cruise Control (Option)To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the leveruntil the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until youcomplete your lane change. The lever will return byitself when you release it.2-27

As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don’tflash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned outand other drivers won’t see your turn signal.If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid anaccident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when yousignal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and check thefuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers’’ in the Index).Turn Signal ReminderIf your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile(1.2 km), a chime will sound. To turn off the chime,move the turn signal lever to the OFF position.Headlamp High/Low Beam ChangerWindshield Wipersa_:::a::_2-2sTo change the headlampsfrom low beam to high orhigh to low, pull the turnsignal lever all the waytoward you. Then releaseit. When the high beamsare on, this light on theinstrument panel alsowill be on.You control the windshield wipers by turning the bandmarked WIPER.For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. GoTdit there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers willstop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold theband on MIST longer.You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delaybetween wipes. This can be very useful in light rain orsnow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. Thecloser to LO, the shorter the delay.

For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band awayfrom you to the LO position. For high-speed wiping,turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, movethe band to OFF.Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent youfrom seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoiddamage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiperblades before using them. If they’re frozen to thewindshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your bladesdo become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts.Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor. Acircuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clearaway snow Or ice to prevent an overload.Windshield WasherAt the top of the turn signal/multifunction lever, there’sa paddle with the word PUSH on it. To spray washerfluid on the windshield, push the paddle.If you push the paddle for less than one second, washerfluid will spray three to four times while the wiperblades cycle. If you push the paddle longer than onesecond, washer fluid will spray as long as the paddle isheld. When you release the paddle, the wiper blades willcycle three to four more times to clear the window andthen either stop or return to your preset speed.Driving without washer fluid can be dangerous. A badmud splash can block your vision. You could hit anothervehicle or go off the road. Check your washer fluid leveloften. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index.AUTION:In freezing weather, don’t use your washer untilthe windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washerfluid can form ice on the windshield, blockingyour vision.2-29

The rear windowwashedwiper switch is atthe center of the instrumentpanel. Press the top of theswitch labeled WASH andthe rear wiper will run at aconstant speed.Press the switch further and hold to spray washer fluidwhile the wiper continues to run. The wiper willcontinue to run until you press the OFF switch.The rear window washer fluid reservoir is the samereservoir as the windshield washer reservoir.Cruise Control (Option)With cruise control,you can maintain aspeed of about 25 mph(40 km/h) or morewithout keeping yourfoot on the accelerator.This can really help onlong trips. Cruisecontrol does not workat speeds below about25 mph (40 km/h).When you apply your brakes, the cruise controlshuts off.2-30

ICruise control can be dangerous where youcan't drive safely at a steady speed. So,don't use your cruise control on windingroads or in heavy traffic.Cruise control can be dangerous onslippery roads. On such roads, fast changesin tire traction can cause needless wheelspinning, and you could lose control. Don'tuse cruise control on slippery roads.If you leave your cruise control switch on whenyou're not using cruise, you might hit a buttonand go into cruise when you don't want to. Youcould be startled and even lose control. Keep thecruise control switch OFF until you want to use it.1. Move the cruise control switch to ON.2. Get up to the speed you want.3. Push in the SET buttonat the end of the leverand release it.4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.2-31

Resuming a Set SpeedSuppose you set your cruise control at a desired speedand then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts offthe cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it.Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more,you can move the cruise control switch from ON toR/A (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second.You’ll go right back upto your chosen speed andstay there.Increasing Speed While UThere are two ways to go to a higher speed:Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speea.Push the SET button at the end of the lever, thenrelease the button and the accelerator pedal. You’llnow cruise at the higher speed.Move the cruise switch from ON to WA. Hold itthere until you get up to the speed you want, andthen release the switch. (To increase your speed invery small amounts, move the switch to R/A forless than half a second and then release it. Eachtime you do this, your vehicle will go 1 mph(1.6 km/h) faster.)The accelerate feature will only work after you turn onthe cruise control by pushing the SET button.If you hold the switch at R/A longer than half a second,the vehicle will keep going faster until you release theswitch or apply the brake. You could be startled andeven lose control. So unless you want to go faster, don’thold the switch at WA.There are two ways to reduce your speed while usingcruise control:0 Push in the SET button at the end of the lever untilyou reach the lower speed you want, then release it.0 To slow down in very small amounts, push the SETbutton for less than half a second. Each time you dothis, you’ll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.2-32

Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise ControlUse the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. Whenyou take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slowdown to the cruise control speed you set earlier.Using Cruise Control on HillsHow well your cruise control will work on hills dependsupon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills.When going up steep hills, you may have to step on theaccelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When goingdownhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gearto keep your speed down. Of course, applying the braketakes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this tobe too much trouble and don’t use cruise control onsteep hills.Ending Cruise ControlThere are two ways to turn off the cruise control:Step lightly on the brake pedal; orMove the cruise switch to OFF.Erasing Cruise Speed MemoryWhen you turn off the cruise control or the ignition,your cruise control set speed memory is erased.Lamps. .liLtOWtS0 Headlamps0 Parking Lamps0 Sidemarker LampsTaillamps0 License Plate Lamps0 Instrument Panel LightsTo turn on the headlamps, press the switch with thelamp symbol.Press the switch marked P to turn on the parking lamps.Press OFF to turn off all lamps.2-33

.Headlamps on WarningIf you open the door while leaving the lamps on, youwill hear a warning chime.Daytime Running Lamps (Option)Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier forothers to see the front of your vehicle during the day.DRL can be helpful in many different drivingconditions, but they can be especially helpful in theshort periods after dawn and before sunset.A light sensor in the instrument panel cluster makes theDRL work, so be sure it isn’t covered.The DRL system will make your low-beam headlampscome on at reduced brightness when:the ignition is on,the headlamp switch is off, andthe parking brake is released.When the DRL are on, only your low-beam headlampswill be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lampswon’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t be lit up either.When it’s dark enough outside, your headlamps willcome on to full brightness. The other lamps that comeon with your headlamps will also come on.When it’s bright enough outside, the regular lamps willgo off, and your low-beam headlamps will come on at areduced brightness.To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, set the parkingbrake while the ignition is in the OFF or LOCKposition. Then start the vehicle. The DRL will stay offuntil you release the parking brake.As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regularheadlamp system when you need it.Interior LampsInstrument Panel Brightness Control1.r., . I.LOWYou can brighten or dim theinstrument panel lights byrotating the control up ordown. To turn on theinterior courtesy lamps,rotate the control all theway up to HI.2-34

Courtesy LampsWhen any door is opened, severalamps go on. Theselamps are under the instrument panel. They make iteasy for you to enter and leave the vehicle. You alsocan turn these lamps on by rotating the interior lampsswitch to HI.Interir --amps DelayWhen you purl on the driver's outside door handle, thedome and courtesy lamps will go on and stay on forabout 40 seconds, or until you turn the ignition on.If you pull on the driver's inside door handle within30 seconds of switching off the ignition, the interiorlamps will go on and stay on for about five seconds, toallow you to unlock your door(s).Front Seat Reading LampsPress the switch to turn the front seat reading lamps onor off.2-35

gear Reading Lamps (Wagon)Map LampPress the switch to turn themap lamp on and off.This lamp will go on when you open the liftgate. To turnon the lamp when the liftgate is closed, press the switch.2-36

MirrorsInside Daymight Rearview M rorManual Remote Control MirrorBoth the driver and passenger side outside mirrorsshould be adjusted so that you just see the side of yourvehicle and the area behind your vehicle when you aresitting in a comfortable driving position.When you are sitting in a comfortable driving position,adjust the mirror so you can see clearly behind yourvehicle. The dayhight adjustment allows you to reduceglare from lights behind you. To reduce glare pull thelever toward you to the night position.Use the remote control knob on the driver's door toadjust the driver's outside mirror. Adjust the passenger'soutside mirror by hand.2-37

Power Remote Control Mirror (Option)Both the driver’s and optional passenger’s side outsidemirrors can be adjusted with the control lever on thedriver’s door.Convex Outside MirrorYour passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convexmirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from thedriver’s seat.1 A CAUTION:A convex mirror can make things (like othervehicles) look farther away than they really are.If you cut too sharply into the right lane, youcould hit a vehicle on your right. Check yourinside mirror or glance over your shoulder beforechanging lanes.Turn the knob left or right to select the driver’s orpassenger’s mirror. Rotate the knob to adjust the mirror.Adjust each mirror so that you can just see the side ofyour vehicle and the area behind your vehicle when youare sitting in a comfortable driving position.Storage CompartmentsGlove BoxUse the door key to lock and unlock the glove box. Toopen, pinch the latch release.2-38

Storage ArmrestRear Locking Storage Compartment(Wagon)The front armrest opens into a storage area. To open it,lift the lever at the front edge. Inside is a coinholder, slotsto hold cassettes or CDs and a dual cupholder. To use thecupholder, flip it forward and close the armrest cover.The cupholder can be removed for cleaning. Flipthe cupholder into the armrest storage area. Squeezethe arms inward to release the retainer pins. Removethe cupholder.The armrest can be raised so that a passenger can sit inthe center position.Use your door key to unlock the storage bin on thedriver’s side near the liftgate.2-39

Convenience Net (Option)Wagon Cargo Security Cover (Option)This cover is designed to help conceal articles in therear storage area. It pulls out and retracts like awindow shade.If you have the optional rear-facing third seat, make sureit is folded down.A CAUT7N:Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You'll see itjust inside the back wall of the trunk.Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net. It canhelp keep them from falling over during sharp turns orquick starts and stops.The net isn't for larger, heavier loads. Store them in thetrunk as far forward as you can. You can unhook the netso that it will lie flat when you're not using it.An improperly stored cargo coy could bethrown about the vehicle during a collision orsudden maneuver. You or others could beinjured. If you remove the cover, always store itproperly secured. When you put it back, alwaysbe sure that it is securely reattached.2-40

a. . , .- . ..,.,To use the cover, grasp the handle and pull the coverover the rear storage area. Insert thends of the supportrod into the slots in the trim panel near the liftgate.When the cover isn’t in use, roll it back onto the roller.Hold the handle and lift the support rod out of the slots.Tug the cover lightly, then let it roll back automatically.Don’t release the handle until the cover has rolledback completely.To remove the cover, you can remove the cover androller assembly for extra cargo room. Slide back theend sleeve and lift the assembly out of the notch inthe trim panel.To replace the assembly, reverse the procedure.

Luggage Carrier (Option)If you have the optional luggage carrier, you can loadthings on top of a wagon, or on the deck lid of yourvehicle. The luggage carrier has slats attached to theroof, side rails and adjustable crossrails. The crossrailscan be adjusted by loosening the screws. After movingthe crossrails, be sure to tighten the screws securely.Don’t exceed the maximum vehicle capacity whenloading your Buick. For more information on vehiclecapacity and loading, see “Loading Your Vehicle”in the Index.To prevent damage or loss of cargo as you’re driving,check now and then to make sure the luggage carrier andcargo are still securely fastened.NOTICE:Loading cargo that weighs more than 50 lbs.(23 kg) for the deck lid or 200 lbs. (90kg) for theroof on the luggage carrier may damage yourvehicle. When you carry large things, never letthem hang over the rear or the sides of yourvehicle. Load your cargo so that it rests on theslats and does not scratch or damage the vehicle.Put the cargo against the rear rail of the deck lidcarrier and fasten it securely. On the wagon, putthe cargo against the side rails of the roof carrierand fasten it securely.Ashtrays and LighterReach under the front edge of the ashtray compartmentto open it. To remove the ashtray for cleaning, reachunder the ashtray and push up from behind it.To clean the rear ashtrays, fully open the ashtray.Press down on the snuffer as you pull the ashtraydown and out.2-42

1 NOTICE:Don’t put papers and other things that burn intoashtrays. If you do, cigarettes or other smokingmaterials could set them on fire, causing damage.Sun VisorsTo block out glare, you can swmg down the visors. Youcan also move them from side to side.Lighted Visor Vanity Mirror (Option)To use the lighter, push it in all the way and let go.When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself.NOTICE:Don’t hold a cigarette lighter in with your handwhile it is heating. If you do, it won’t be able toback away from the heating element when it’sready. That can make overheat, it damaging thelighter and the heating element.If your vehicle has the optional lighted vanity mirror, thelamps come on when you open the cover. Close thecover to turn out the lamps.2-43

A.B.C.D.E.ELamp ControlsInstrument Panel Brightness ControlVentsInstrument Panel Cluster and Indicator LampsAudio SystemMap Reading LampsG. Rear Window Defogger SwitchH. Glove BoxI. Wipermasher Rear Window (Wagon Only)J. Climate ControlsK. Parking Brake ReleaseL. Hood Release2-45

Instrument Panel ClusterLOWTRACTIONAIRBAGTAILGATEAJARYYUNLEADED FUEL ONLY 10P R N[DI32 1e 20MPH:iTEMPERATUREAPPLY BRAKE TOSHIFT FROM PARKBRAKEANTI -LOCKLOWOILYour instrument panel is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You'll know how fastyou're going, how much fuel you're using, and many other things you'll need to drive safely and economically.Domestic2-46

LOWTRACTIONAIRBAG 0%wHCRUISEBRAKETAILGATEAJARP R N O 3 20 oIu"onn4IAPPLY BRAKE TOnSHIFT FROM PARK,--\\Canadian

Speedometer and OdometerYour speedometer lets you see your speed in both milesper hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (kmh). Yourodometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven,in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers(used in Canada).Your Buick has a “tamper-resistant odometer.” If youcan see very noticeable bright silver lines between thenumbers, someone has probably tried to turn it back.The numbers may not be true.You may wonder what happens if a vehicle has to havea new odometer installed. If possible, the new one hasto be set to the same reading as the old one. If it can’tbe, then it’s set at zero, and a label on the driver’s doormust show the old reading and when the new onewas installed.Trip OdometerThe trip odometer can tell you how many miles youhave driven since you last set it to zero. To reset it, pushthe button on the instrument cluster.2-48Warning Lights, Gages and IndicatorsThis part describes the warning lights and gages that maybe on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them.Warning lights and gages can signal that something iswrong before it becomes serious enough to cause anexpensive repair or replacement. Paying attention toyour warning lights and gages could also save you orothers from injury.Warning lights come on when there may be or is aproblem with one of your vehicle’s hnctions. As you willsee in the details on the next few pages, some warninglights come on briefly when you start the engine just to letyou know they’re working. If you are familiar with thissection, you should not be alarmed when this happens.Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problemwith one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages andwarning lights work together to let you know whenthere’s a problem with your vehicle.When one of the warning lights comes on and stays onwhen you are driving, or when one of the gages showsthere may be a problem, check the section that tells youwhat to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice.Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and evendangerous. So please get to know your warning lightsand gages. They’re a big help.

Safety Belt Warning LightWhen the key is turned to RUN or START a chime willcome on for about eight seconds to remind people tofasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt isalready buckled./r\ CAUTION:The safety belt light willalso come on and stay onfor about 20 seconds, thenit will flash for about55 seconds. If the driver’sbelt is already buckled,neither the chime nor thelight will come on.-1 urour safety belt light ever comes on or stays onafter the front doors are closed and the driver’sbelt is buckled, have your vehicle fixed.If you don’t, the belt might not work as it should,and you might not have the protection you’dneed in a crash.Air Bag Readiness LightThere is an air bag readiness light on the instrumentpanel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks theair bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The lighttells you if there is an electrical problem. The systemcheck includes the air bag sensors, the air bag module,the wiring and the diagnostic module. For moreinformation on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” inthe Index.AIRBAGYou will see this light flashfor a few seconds when youturn your ignition to RUNor START. Then the lightshould go out. This meansthe system is ready.If the air bag readiness light doesn’t come on when youstart your vehicle, or stays on, or comes on when youare driving, your air bag system may not work properly.Have your vehicle serviced right away.2-49

Battery LightI-+IThe battery warning light isdesigned to come on brieflywhen you turn on theignition, but the engine isnot running, as a check toshow you it is working.Brake System Warning LightYour Buick’s hydraulic brake system is divided into twoparts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can stillwork and stop you. For good braking, though, you needboth parts working well.If the warning light comes on, there could be a brakeproblem. Have your brake system inspected right away.Then it should go out. If it stays on, or comes on whileyou are driving, you may have a problem with theelectrical charging system. It could indicate that youhave a loose generator drive belt or another electricalproblem. Have it checked right away. Driving while thislight is on could drain your battery.If you must drive a short distance with the light on, becertain to turn off all your accessories, such as the radioand air conditioner.BRAKEThis light should come onbriefly when you turn theignition key to RUN. Ifit doesn’t come on then,have it fixed so it will beready to warn you if there’sa problem.If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off theroad and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal isharder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. Itmay take longer to stop. If the light is still on, or if theanti-lock brake system warning light is flashing, have thevehicle towed for service. (See “Anti-Lock Brake SystemWarning Light” and ‘Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.)2-50

~~A CAUTION: --Your brake system may not be working properlyif the brake system warning light is on. Drivingwith the brake system warning light on can leadto an accident. If the light is still on or if theanti-lock brake system warning light is flashingafter you’ve pulled off the road and stoppedcarefully, have the vehicle towed for service.Anti-Lock Brake System Warning LightANTI -LOCKWhen the ignition is on, the brake system warning lightwill also come on when you set your parking brake. Thelight will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t releasefully. If it stays on after your parking brake is fullyreleased, it means you have a brake problem.DomesticCanadianWith the anti-lock brake system, one of these lights willcome on when you start your engine and will stay on forthree seconds. That’s normal.2-51

If the light flashes when you’re driving, you don’t haveanti-lock brakes and there could be a problem with yourregular brakes. Pull off the road and stop carefully. Youmay notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedalmay go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop.Have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Towing YourVehicle” in the Index.)IYour regular brake system may not be workingproperly if the anti-lock brake system warninglight is flashing. Driving with the anti-lockbrake system warning light flashing can leadto an accident. After you’ve pulled off the roadand stopped carefully, have the vehicle towedfor service.If the anti-lock brake system warning light stays onlonger than normal after you’ve started your engine, turnthe ignition off. Or, if the light comes on and stays onwhen you’re driving, stop asoon as possible and turnthe ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset thesystem. If the light still stays on, or comes on againwhile you’re driving, your Buick needs service. If thelight is on but not flashing and the regular brake systemwarning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but youdon’t have anti-lock brakes.The anti-lock brake system warning light should comeon briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If thelight doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will beready to warn you if there is a problem.2-52

Anti-Lock Brake SLOWTRACTIONAWhen your anti-lock systemis adjusting brake pressureto help avoid a braking skid,the anti-lock brakg systemactive light will come on.Engine Coolant TemperatureWarning LightThis warning light isdesigned to tell you thatyour engine coolant hasoverheated or your radiatorcooling fan is not working.Slippery road conditions may exist if this light comeson, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light willstay on for a few seconds after the system stopsadjusting brake pressure.The anti-lock brake system active light also comes onbriefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If thelight doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will bethere to tell you when the system is active.If you have been operating your vehicle under normaldriving conditions, you should pull off the road, stopyour vehicle and turn the engine off as soon as possible.The section “Problems on the Road,” in this manualexplains what to do. See “Engine Overheating” inthe Index.2-53

Engine Coolant Temperature GageIkTEMPERATURE -ZDomesticCanadianThis gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gagepointer moves into the red area, your engine is too hot!That reading means the same thing as the warning light.It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If youhave been operating your vehicle under normal drivingconditions, you should pull off the road, and stop yourengine as soon as possible.The section “Problems on the Road,” in this manualexplains what to do. See “Engine Overheating” inthe Index.2-54Malfunction.Indicator Lamp(Service Engine Soon Light)SERVICEENGINESOONDomesticCanadianYour Buick is equipped with a computer whichmonitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emissioncontrol systems.

This system is called OBD I1 (On-BoardDiagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assurethat emissions are at acceptable levels for the of life thevehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. (InCanada, OBD I1 is replaced by Enhanced Diagnostics.)The SERVICE ENGINE SOON light comes on toindicate that there is a problem and service is required.Malfunctions often will be indicated by the systembefore any problem is apparent, which may prevent moreserious damage to your vehicle. This system is alsodesigned to assist your service technician in correctlydiagnosing any malfunction.NOTICE:This light should come on, as a check to show you itworking, when the ignition is on and the engine not isrunning. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.This light will also come on during a malfunction in onof two ways:00Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has beendetected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions andmay damage the emission control system on yourvehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosisand service is required.Light On Steady -- An emission control systemmalfunction has been detected on your vehicle.Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis andservice may be required.If you keep driving your vehicle with this lighton, after a while, your emission controls may notwork as well, your fuel economy may not as begood and your engine may not run as smoothly.This could lead to costly repairs that may not becovered by your warranty.2-55

If the Light Is FlashingThe following may prevent more serious damage toyour vehicle:Reduce vehicle speed.Avoid hard accelerations.Avoid steep uphill grades.If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo beinghauled as soon as it is possible.If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “Ifthe Light Is On Steady” following.If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so,stop the vehicle. Put your vehicle in PARK (P). Turn thekey off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine.If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light Is OnSteady” following. If the light is still flashing follow theprevious steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer orqualified service center for service.If the Light Is On SteadyYou may be able to correcthe emission systemmalfunction by considering the following:Did you just put fuel into your vehicle?If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully installthe cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuelcap has been left off or improperly installed. This willallow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A fewdriving trips should turn the light off.Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water?If so, your electrical system may be wet. The conditionwill usually be corrected when the electrical systemdries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.Are you low on fuel?As your engine starts to run out of fuel, your engine maynot run as efficiently as designed since small amounts ofair are sucked into the fuel line causing a misfire. Thesystem can detect this. Adding fuel should correct thiscondition. Make sure to install the fuel cap properly. Itwill take a few driving trips to turn the light off.

Have you recently changed brands of fuel?If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see“Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause yourengine not to run as efficiently as designed. You maynotice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when youput the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation onacceleration or stumbling on acceleration. (Theseconditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.)This will be detected by the system and cause the lightto turn on.If you experience this condition, change the fuel brandyou use. It will require at least one full tank of theproper fuel to turn the light off.If none of the above steps have made the light turn off,have your dealer or qualified service center check thevehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment anddiagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electricalproblems that may have developed.Engine Oil Pressure LightIf you have a problem withyour oil, this oil pressurewarning light may stay onafter you start your engine,or come on when you aredriving. Stop your vehicleand shut off the engine ifthis light stays on.This indicates that oil is not going through yourengine quickly enough to keep it lubricated.The engine could be low on oil, or could havesome other oil problem. Have your vehicleserviced immediately.

The oil light could also come on in three other situations:When the ignition is on but the engine is not running,the light will come on as a test to show you it isworking, but the light will go out when you turn theignition to START. If it doesn’t come on with theignition, you may have a problem with the fuse or abulb. Have it fixed right away.Sometimes when the engine is idling at a stop, thelight may blink on and off. This is normal.If you make a hard stop, the light may come on for amoment. This is normal.A CAUTION:Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low. Ifyou do, your engine can become so hot that itcatches fire. You or others could be burned.Check your oil as soon as possible and have yourvehicle serviced.I NOTICE:Damage to your engine from neglected oilproblems can be costly and is not covered byyour warranty.Liftgate Ajar Warning Light (Wagon)TAILGATEAJARThe TAILGATE AJARreminder light on yourinstrument panel will comeon if your liftgate is not2-58

Fuel GageEg 0BUNLEADED FUEL ONLYDomesticCanadianIIHere are four things that some owners ask about. Noneof these show a problem with your fuel gage and arenormal operating characteristics:At the service station, the gas pump shuts off beforethe gage reads FULL (F).It takes a little more or less fuel fill to up than thegage indicated. For example, the gage may haveindicated the tank was half full, but it actually took alittle more or less than half the tank's capacity to fillthe tank.The gage moves a little when you turn a corner,speed up or brake.0 The gage doesn't go back to EMPTY (E) when youturn off the ignition.Your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you haveleft, when the ignition is on. When the indicator nearsEMPTY (E), you still have a little fuel left, but youshould get more soon.2-59

NOTES2-60

Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio SystemsIn this section you'll find out how to operate the comfortcontrol and audio systems offered with your Buick. Besure to read about the particular systems supplied withyour vehicle.Comfort ControlsWith this system, you can control the heating, coolingand ventilation in your vehicle. The system works best ifyou keep your windows closed while using it. Yourvehicle also has a flow-through ventilation system,described later in this section.System ControlsFan LeverThe lever next to the fan symb 01 select s the forc 'e of aiyou want. To turn the fan off, move the upper lever tothe OFF position.Temperature LeverThe lower lever changes the temperature of the aircoming through the system.Mode LeverThe upper lever changes the functions of your system.

The upper lever has three air conditioner settings. Onvery hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot,inside air escape. This reduces the amount of work yourair conditioner's compressor will have to do, whichshould help fuel economy.MAX: Provides maximum cooling with the leastamount of work. This setting recirculates much of theair inside your vehicle so it maximizes your airconditioner's performance and fuel economy.NORM: Use for normal cooling on hot days. Thissetting cools outside air and directs it through theinstrument panel outlets.BI-LEV: Use this on cool, but sunny days. This settingbrings in the outside air, and directs it in two ways. Thecool air is directed to the upper portion of your bodythrough the instrument panel outlets, and warmed air isdirected through the heater ducts and defroster vents. Attimes, this temperature difference may be more apparentthan others.The air conditioner compressor operates in all airconditioning positions, and in DEF (defrdst) when theoutside temperature is above about 40°F (4.5"C).When outside temperatures are cold, sliding the upperlever to HEATER and the lower lever to HOT willsend heated air through the heater ducts, and somethrough the defroster vents. VENT and HEATERare labeled ECONOMY positions because the airconditioner compressor doesn't run in these twosettings. This reduces engine load, resulting inimproved fuel economy. If either setting fails to keepyou comfortable, or causes your windows to fog up,slide the upper lever to one of the air conditioningpositions, or to DEF (defrost).rgiiThe DEF setting directs most of the air through thedefroster vents and some through the heater dl s.To quickly defog the windshield, set the upper le ~ r toDEF and move the fan switch to HI. Slide the lowerlever to HOT.In damp, cool weather (temperatures about 45"to 65"F,7 " to 18 " C), you can use BI-LEV to defog the sidewindows. Set the upper lever to BI-LEV and the fanswitch to HI. Aim the side vents toward the sidewindows, For increased airflow to the side vents, closethe center vents.3-2

Rear Window DefoggerREAR!The rear window defoggeruses a warming grid toremove fog from the rearwindow. In winter, it canalso keep ice from formingon the rear window.Ventilation SystemPress the ON portion of the switch. The indicator lightwill glow. The rear window defogger will turn offautomatically after about 10 minutes of use. You canalso turn it off by turning off the ignition or pressing theOFF portion of the switch.I NOTICE:Don’t use a razor blade or something else sharpon the inside of the rear window. If you do, youcould cut or damage the warming grid, and therepairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.Your Buick’s flow-through ventilation system suppliesoutside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outsideair will also enter the vehicle when the heater or the airconditioning fan is running.For mild outside temperatures, when little heating orcooling is needed, slide the upper lever to VENT.Airflow is through the instrument panel outlets. Rotatethe control next to the outlets to turn on, adjust or turnoff the airflow. Adjust the lower lever on the controlpanel to the temperature desired.3-3

Ventilation Tips000Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow orany other obstruction (such as leaves). The heaterand defroster will work far better, reducing thechance of fogging the inside of your windows.When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn theblower fan to HI for a few moments before drivingoff. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow andmoisture, and reduces the chance of fogging theinside of your windows.Keep the air path under the front seats clear ofobjects. This helps air to circulate throughoutyour vehicle.Audio SystemsYour Delco' audio system has been designed to operateeasily and give years of listening pleasure. You will getthe most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourselfwith it first. Find out what your Delco system can doand how to operate all its controls, to be sure you'regetting the most out of the advanced engineering thatwent into it.Setting the ClockPress SET. Within five seconds, press and hold SCANuntil the correct hour appears. Press and hold SEEKuntil the correct minute appears.3-4

AM-FM StereoPlaying the RadioVOL: Turn the upper knob to turn the radio on and offand to control the volume.RECALL: When the ignition is off, press the upperknob to display the time.Finding a StationAM-FM: Press the lower knob to select AM or FM.TUNE: Turn the lower knob to choose radio stations.SEEK: Press this button to go to the next higher stationand stay there.SCAN: Press this button to hear each station for a fewseconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a fewseconds, then go on to the next station. SCAN appearson the display. Press SCAN again to stop scanning.PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons letyou return to your favorite stations. You can set up to14 stations (seven AM and seven FM).1. Find the station you want by using TUNE.2. Press SET. (The SET indicator will appear briefly onthe display.)3. Press one of the four pushbuttons, within fiveseconds. Whenever you press that numbered button,the station you set will return.4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.3-5

In addition to the four stationset as above, up to threeadditional stations may be preset on each band bypressing two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just:1. Tune in the desired station.2. Press SET. (The SET indicator will appear onthe display.)3. Press any two adjoining pushbuttons at the sametime (within five seconds).4. Whenever you press the same buttons, the stationyou set will return.Setting the ToneBASS: Slide this lever up to increase bass and down todecrease it.TREBLE: Slide this lever up to increase treble anddown to decrease it. If a station is weak or noisy, slidethe lever down to reduce the noise.Adjusting the SpeakersBAL: This control behind the upper knob adjusts thesound between the right and left speakers.FADE: This control behind the lower knob adjusts thesound between your front and rear speakers.AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player(Option)Playing the RadioVOL: Turn the upper knob to turn the radio on and offand control the volume. When the ignition is off, pressthe knob to display the time.Finding a StationAM-FM: Press the lower knob to select AM or FM.TUNE: Turn the lower knob to choose radio stations.SEEK: Press this button to go to the next higher stationand stay there.3-6

SCAN: Press this button to hear each station for a fewseconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a fewseconds, then go on to the next station. SCAN appearson the display. Press SCAN again to stop scanning.PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons letyou return to your favorite stations. You can set up to14 stations (seven AM and seven FM).1. Find the station you want by using TUNE.2. Press SET. (The SET indicator will appear briefly onthe display.)3. Press one of the four pushbuttons, within fiveseconds. Whenever you press that numbered button,the station you set will return.4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.In addition to the four stations set as above, up to threeadditional stations may be preset on each band bypressing two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just:1. Tune in the desired station.2. Press SET. (The SET indicator will appear on thedisplay.)3. Press any two adjoining pushbuttons at the sametime (within five seconds).4. Whenever you press the same buttons, the stationyou set will return.Setting the ToneBASS: Slide this lever up to increase bass and down todecrease it.TREBLE: Slide this lever up to increase treble anddown to decrease it. If a station is weak or noisy, slidethe lever down to reduce the noise.Adjusting the SpeakersBAL: This control behind the upper knob adjusts thesound between the right and left speakers.FADE: This control behind the lower knob adjusts thesound between your front and rear speakers.Playing a Cassette TapeYour tape player is built to work best with tapes that are30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer thanthat are so thin they may not work well in this player.While the tape is playing, use the VOL, FADE, BAL,TREBLE and BASS controls just as you do for theradio. The display will show an arrow to show whichside of the tape is playing. When the right indicatorarrow is lit, selections listed on the bottom side of thecassette are playing. When the left arrow is lit,selections listed on the top side of the cassette areplaying. The tape player automatically begins playingthe other side when it reaches the end of the tape.3-7

FORWARD: Press the right arrow to rapidly advancethe tape. It will continue forwarding until you pressSTOP-EJECT lightly.REVERSE: Press the left arrow to rapidly reverse thetape. It will continue reversing until you pressSTOP-EJECT lightly.PROG-RCL: Press the upper knob while a cassettetape is playing to hear the other side of the tape.STOP-EJECT Press this button to remove the tape orstop playing the tape and switch to the radio.Understanding Radio ReceptionFM StereoFM stereo will give you the best sound. But FM signalswill reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tallbuildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causingthe sound to come and go.AMThe range for most AM stations is greater than for FM,especially at night. The longer range, however, cancause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pickup noise from things like storms and power lines. Tryreducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.Tips About Your Audio SystemHearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectableuntil it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to highervolumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loudand harmful to your hearing. Take precautions byadjusting the volume control on your radio to a safesound level before your hearing adapts to it.To help avoid hearing loss or damage:0 Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting.0 Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortablyand clearly.

NOTICE:Before you add any sound equipment to yourvehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobiletelephone or two-way radio -- be sure you canadd what you want. If you can, it’s veryimportant to do properly. it Added soundequipment may interfere with the operation ofyour vehicle’s engine, Delco radio or othersystems, and even damage them. Your vehicle’ssystems may interfere with the operation ofsound equipment that has been addedimproperly.So, before adding sound equipment, check withyour dealer and be sure to check Federal rulescovering mobile radio and telephone units.Care of Your Cassette Tape PlayerA tape player that is not cleaned regularly can causereduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damagedmechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in theircases away from contaminants, direct sunlight andextreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operateproperly or may cause failure of the tape player.Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every50 hours of use. If you notice a reduction in soundquality, try a known good cassette to see if the tape orthe tape player is at fault. If this other cassette has noimprovement in sound quality, clean the tape player.Cleaning may be done with a scrubbing action,non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrubthe tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. Itis normal for the cassette to eject while cleaning. Insertthe cassette at least three times to ensure thoroughcleaning. A scrubbing action cleaning cassette isavailable through your Buick dealer.You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-typecleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to cleanthe tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will noteject. It may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbingtype cleaner.Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality maydegrade over time. Always make sure that the cassettetape is in good condition before you have your tapeplayer serviced.

iFixed Mast AntennaThe fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washeswithout being damaged. If the mast should ever becomeslightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If themast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you shouldreplace it.Check every once in a while to be sure the mast is stilltightened to the fender.Power Antenna Mast CareYour power antenna will look its best and workwell if it’s cleaned from time to time. To clean theantenna mast:1.2.3.4.5.6.Turn on the ignition and radio to raise the antenna.Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits orequivalent solvent.Wipe the cloth over the mast sections, removingany dirt.Wipe dry with a clean cloth.Make the antenna go up and down by turning theradio or ignition off and on.Repeat if necessary.I NOTICE:Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubricationcould damage it.NOTICE:Before entering an automatic car wash, turn offyour radio to make the power antenna go down.This will prevent the mast from possibly gettingdamaged. If the antenna does not go down whenyou turn the radio off, it may be damaged orneed to be cleaned. In either case, lower theantenna by hand by carefully pressing theantenna down.If the mast portion of your antenna is damaged, you caneasily replace it. See your dealer for a replacement kitand follow the instructions in the kit.3-10

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Section 4 Your Driving and the Ra dHere you’ll find information about driving on differentkinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’vealso included many other useful tips on driving.Defensive DrivingThe best advice anyone can give about driving is:Drive defensively.Please start with a very important safety device in yourBuick: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.)Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.”On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means“always expect the unexpected.”Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to becareless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they mightdo. Be ready for their mistakes.Rear-end collisions are abouthe most preventable ofaccidents. Yet they are common. Allow enoughfollowing distance. It’s the best defensive drivingmaneuver, in both city and rural driving. You neverknow when the vehicle in front of you is going to brakeor turn suddenly.

~ DrunkenDriving The obvious way to solve this highway safety problemis for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. ButDeath and injury associated with drinking and driving what if people do? How much is “too much” if theI is a national Itragedy. It’s the number one contributor to driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many mighti the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims , think. Although it depends on each person and situation,every year.here is some general information on the problem.Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drivea vehicle:JudgmentMuscular Coordination0 Vision0 Attentiveness.Police records show that almost half of all motorvehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases,these deaths are the result of someone who was drinkingand driving. In recent years, some 18,000 annual motorvehicle-related deaths have been associated with the useof alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured.1 4-2IMany adults -- by some estimates, nearly half theadult population -- choose never to drink alcohol, sothey never drive after drinking. For persons under 2 1 ,it’s against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol.There are good medical, psychological anddevelopmental reasons for these laws.The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someonewho is drinking depends upon four things:The amount of alcohol consumedThe drinker’s body weight0 The amount of food that is consumed before andduring drinking0 The length of time it has taken the drinker toconsume the alcohol.According to the American Medical Association, a180-lb. (82 kg) person who drinks three 12-ounce(355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with aBAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach thesame BAC by drinking three 4-ounce (120 ml) glassesof wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1- 1/2 ounces(45 ml) of a liquor like whiskey, gin or vodka.

It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, ifthe same person drank three double martinis (3 ouncesor 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’sBAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person whoconsumes food just before or during drinking will have asomewhat lower BAC level.There is a gender difference, too. Women generally havea lower relative percentage of body water than men.Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that awoman generally will reach a higher BAC level than aman of her same body weight when each has the samenumber of drinks.The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BACof 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, andthroughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In someother countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for allcommercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent.The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three tosix drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we’ve seen, itdepends on how much alcohol is in the drinks, and howquickly the person drinks them.But the ability to drive is affected well below a BACof 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skillsof many people are impaired at a BAC approaching0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. Alldrivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent.Statistics show that the chance of being in a collisionincreases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of havinga collision. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chanceof this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; ata level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!

The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcoholin one drink. No amount of coffee or number of coldshowers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t theright answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need totake sudden action, as when a child darts into the street?A person with even a moderate BAC might not be ableto react quickly enough to avoid the collision.There’s something else about drinking and driving thatmany people don’t know. Medical research shows thatalcohol in a person’s system can make crash injuriesworse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord orheart. This means that when anyone who has beendrinking -- driver or passenger -- is in a crash, thatperson’s chance of being killed or permanently disabledis higher than if the person had not been drinking.A CAUTION:Drinking and then driving is very dangerous.Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness andjudgment can be affected by even a small amountof alcohol. You can have a serious -- or evenfatal -- collision if you drive after drinking.Please don’t drink and drive or ride with a driverwho has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; orif you’re with a group, designate a driver whowill not drink.4-4

ktrol of a Vehicle BraE vYou have three systems that make your vehicle go whereyou want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering andthe accelerator. All three systems have to do their workat the places where the tires meet the road.Braking action involves perception time and reaction time.First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal.That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up yourfoot and do it. That’s reaction time.Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. Butthat’s only an average. It might be less with one driverand as long as two or three seconds or more withanother. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordinationand eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs andfrustration. But even in 3/4 of a second, a vehiclemoving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m).That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, sokeeping enough space between your vehicle and othersis important.And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatlywith the surface of the road (whether it’s pavement orgravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tiretread; and the condition of your brakes.Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’seasy to ask more of those control systems than the tiresand road can provide. That means you can lose controlof your vehicle.4-5

Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drivein spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavybraking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. Thisis a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to coolbetween hard stops. Your brakes will wear out muchfaster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pacewith the traffic and allow realistic following distances,you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. Thatmeans better braking and longer brake life.If your engine ever stops while you’re driving, brakenormally but don’t pump your brakes. If you do, thepedal may get harder to push down. If your enginestops, you will still have some power brake assist. Butyou will use it when you brake. Once the power assist isused up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedalwill be harder to push.Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is anadvanced electronic braking system that will helpprevent a braking skid.When you start your engine, or when you begin to driveaway, your anti-lock brake system will check itself. Youmay hear a momentary motor or clicking noise whilethis test is going on, and you may even notice that yourbrake pedal moves a little. This is normal.ANTI -LOCKDomesticCanadianIf there’s a problem with the anti-lock brake system, thiswarning light will stay on or flash. See “Anti-LockBrake System Warning Light” in the Index.

The anti-lock system can change the brake pressurefaster than any driver could. The computer isprogrammed to make the most of available tire androad conditions.Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet.You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out infront of you.You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS.A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If oneof the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer willseparately work the brakes at each front wheel and at therear wheels.You can steer around the obstacle while braking hard.As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates onwheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.

Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you needto get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decreasestopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle infront of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakesif that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leaveenough room up ahead to stop, even though you haveanti-lock brakes.Using Anti-LockDon’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedaldown and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel thesystem working, or you may notice some noise, but thisis normal.Braking in EmergenciesUse your anti-lock braking system when you need to.With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the sametime. In many emergencies, steering can help you morethan even the very best braking.SteeringPower SteeringIf you lose power steering assist because the enginestops or the system is not functioning, you can steerbut it will take much more effort.’ .LOWTRACTIONWhen your anti-lock systemis adjusting brake pressureto help avoid a braking skid,this light will come on. See“Anti-Lock Brake SystemActive Light” in the Index.4-8

Steering TipsDriving on CurvesIt’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed.H lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned onthe news happen on curves. Here’s why:Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject tothe same laws of physics when driving on curves. Thetraction of the tires against the road surface makes itpossible for the vehicle to change its path when you turnthe front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keepthe vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve evertried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, YOU'^^ understand this.The traction you can get in a curve depends on thecondition of your tires and the road surface, the angle atwhich the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’rein a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then yousuddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering andacceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meetthe road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand toomuch of those places. You can lose control.What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on theaccelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want itto go, and slow down.Speed limit signs near curves warn that you shouldadjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds arebased on good weather and road conditions. Under lessfavorable conditions you’ll want to go slower.If you need to reduce your speed as you approach acurve, do it before you enter the curve, while your frontwheels are straight ahead.Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through thecurve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait toaccelerate until you are out of the curve, and thenaccelerate gently into the straightaway.4-9

Steering in EmergenciesThere are times when steering can be more effective thanbraking. For example, you come over a hill and fmd atruck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls outfrom nowhere, or a child darts out from between parkedcars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid theseproblems by braking -- if you can stop in time. Butsometimes you can’t; there isn’t room. That’s the time forevasive action -- steering .around the problem.Your Buick can perform very well in emergencies likethese. First apply your brakes. (See“Braking inEmergencies” earlier in this section.) It is better toremove as much speed as you can from a possiblecollision. Then steer around the problem, to the left orright depending on the space available.An emergency like this requires close attention and aquick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel atthe recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you canturn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removingeither hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, andjust as quickly straighten the wheel once you haveavoided the object.The fact that such emergency situations are alwayspossible is a good reason to practice defensive driving atall times and wear safety belts properly.4-10

Off-Road RecoveryYou may find sometime that your right wheels havedropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder whileyou’re driving.If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below thepavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off theaccelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way,steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of thepavement. You can turn the steering wheel up toone-quarter turn until the right front tire contacts thepavement edge. Then turn your steering wheel to gostraight down the roadway.PassingThe driver of a vehicle about to pass another on atwo-lane highway waits for just the right moment,accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goesback into the right lane again. A simple maneuver?Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lanehighway is a potentially dangerous move, since thepassing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncomingtraffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error injudgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger cansuddenly put the passing driver face to face with theworst of all traffic accidents -- the head-on collision.So here are some tips for passing:“Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides andto crossroads for situations that might affect yourpassing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoeverabout making a successful pass, wait for a better time.Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines.If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate aturn or an intersection, delay your pass. A brokencenter line usually indicates it’s all right to pass(providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solidline on your side of the lane or a double solid line,even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic.4-11

0 Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to passwhile you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing,following too closely reduces your area of vision,especially if you’re following a larger vehicle.Also, you won’t have adequate space if the vehicleahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back areasonable distance.When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up,start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’tget too close. Time your move so you will beincreasing speed as the time comes to move into theother lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will havea “running start” that more than makes up for thedistance you would lose by dropping back. And ifsomething happens to cause you to cancel your pass,you need only slow down and drop back again andwait for another opportunity.If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, waityour turn. But take care that someone isn’t trying topass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle.Remember to glance over your shoulder and checkthe blind spot.0 Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, andstart your left lane change signal before moving outof the right lane to pass. When you are far enoughahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in yourinside mirror, activate your right lane change signaland move back into the right lane. (Remember thatyour right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle youjust passed may seem to be farther away from youthan it really is.)Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a timeon two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing thenext vehicle.0 Don’t overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly.Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it maybe slowing down or starting to turn.If you’re being passed, make it easy for thefollowing driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps youcan ease a little to the right.

Let’s review what driving experts say about whathappens when the three control systems (brakes, steeringand acceleration) don’t havenough friction where thetires meet the road to do what the driver has asked.In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer andconstantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonablecare suited to existing conditions, and by not“overdriving” those conditions. But skids are alwayspossible.The three types of skids correspond to your Buick’sthree control systems. In the braking skid, your wheelsaren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, toomuch speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip andlose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, toomuch throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.A cornering skid and an acceleration skid are besthandled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off theaccelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want thevehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, yourvehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for asecond skid if it occurs.Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice,gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’llwant to slow down and adjust your driving to theseconditions. It is important to slow down on slipperysurfaces because stopping distance will be longer andvehicle control more limited.While driving on a surface with reduced traction, tryyour best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration orbraking (including engine braking by shifting to a lowergear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires toslide. You may not realize the surface is slippery untilyour vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warningclues -- such as enough water, ice or packed snowon the road to make a “mirrored surface” -- andslow down when you have any doubt.Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helpsavoid only the braking skid.

Driving at NightHere are some tips on night driving.0 Drive defensively.0 Don’t drink and drive.0 Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce theglare from headlamps behind you.0 Since you can’t see as well, you may need toslow down and keep more space between you andother vehicles.0 Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Yourheadlamps can light up only so much road ahead.0 In remote areas, watch for animals.0 If you’re tired, pull off the road in a safe placeand rest.Night driving is more dangerous than day driving.One reason is that some drivers are likely to beimpaired -- by alcohol or drugs, with night visionproblems, or by fatigue.4-14

Uight;ionNo one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But aswe get older these differences increase. A 50-year-olddriver may require at least twice as much light to see thesame thing at night as a 20-year-old.What you do in the daytime can also affect your nightvision. For example, if you spend the day in brightsunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes willhave less trouble adjusting to night. But if you’redriving, don’t wear sunglasses at night. They may cutdown on glare from headlamps, but they also make a lotof things invisible.You can be temporarily blinded by approachingheadlamps. It can take a second or two, or even severalseconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. Whenyou are faced with severe glare (as from a driver whodoesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle withmisaimed headlamps), slow down a little. Avoidstaring directly into the approaching headlamps.Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicleclean -- inside and out. Glare at night is made muchworse by dirt on the glass. Even the inside of the glasscan build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makeslights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would,making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly.Remember that your headlamps light up far less of aroadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep youreyes moving; that way, it’s easier to pick out dimlylighted objects. Just as your headlamps should bechecked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyesbe examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from nightblindness -- the inability to see in dim light -- andaren’t even aware of it.4-15

Driving in Rain and on Wet RoadsRain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wetroad, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well becauseyour tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads.And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll geteven less traction. It’s always wise to go slower and becautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. Thesurface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes aretuned for driving on dry pavement.The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if yourwindshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy raincan make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals,pavement markings, the edge of the road and evenpeople walking.It’s wise to keep your windshield wiping equipment ingood shape and keep your windshield washer tank filledwith washer fluid. Replace your windshield wiperinserts when they show signs of streaking or missingareas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start toseparate from the inserts.4-16

Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t workwell in a quick stop and may cause pulling to oneside. You could lose control of the vehicle.After driving through a large puddle of water ora car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly untilyour brakes work normally.Driving too fast through large water puddles or evengoing through some car washes can cause problems, too.The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles.But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them.HydroplaningHydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build upunder your tires that they can actually ride on the water.This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’regoing f at enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning,it has little or no contact with the road.Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But it can if yourtires haven’t much tread or if the pressure in one ormore is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing onthe road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephonepoles or other vehicles, and raindrops “dimple” thewater’s surface, there could be hydroplaning.4-17

Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. Therejust isn’t a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. Thebest advice is to slow down when it is raining.Driving Through Deep Standing WaterNOTICE:If you drive too quickly through deep puddles orstanding water, water can come in through yourengine‘s air intake and badly damage yourengine. Never drive through water that is slightlylower than the underbody of your vehicle. If youcan’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drivethrough them very slowly.Some Other Rainy Weather TipsTurn on your low-beam headlamps -- not justyour parking lamps -- to help make you morevisible to others.0 Besides slowing down, allow some extra followingdistance. And be especially careful when you passanother vehicle. Allow yourself more clear roomahead, and be prepared to have your view restrictedby road spray.Have good tires with proper tread depth. (See“Tires” in the Index.)

City DrivingHere are ways to increase your safety in city driving:0 Know the best way to get to where you are going. Geta city map and plan your trip into an unknown part ofthe city just as you would for a cross-country trip.0 Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross mo stlarge cities. You’ll save time and energy. (See thenext part, “Freeway Driving.”)0 Treat a green light as a warning signal. A trafficlight is there because the corner is busy enough toneed it. When a light turns green, and just beforeyou start to move, check both ways for vehicles tha thave not cleared the intersection or may be runningthe red light.One of the biggest problems with city streets is theamount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out forwhat the other drivers are doing and pay attention totraffic signals.

eeway Driving-Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways,expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safestof all roads. But they have their own special rules.The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keepup with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the samespeed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast ortoo-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat theleft lane on a freeway as a passing lane.At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to thefreeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as youdrive along the entrance ramp, you should begin tocheck traffic. Try to determine where you expect toblend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close tothe prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, checkyour mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often asnecessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to theposted limit or to the prevailing rate if it’s slower. Stayin the right lane unless you want to pass.Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then useyour turn signal.Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over yourshoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle in your“blind” spot.4-20

Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain youallow a reasonable following distance. Expect to moveslightly slower at night.When you want to leave the freeway, move to the properlane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not,under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on tothe next exit.The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.The exit speed is usually posted.Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, notto your sense of motion. After driving for any distanceat higher speeds, you may tend to think you are goings1owe.r than you actually are.Before Leaving on a Long TripMake sure you’re ready. Try to be well rested. If youmust start when you’re not fresh -- such as after a day’swork -- don’t plan to make too many miles that first partof the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes youcan easily drive in.Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep itserviced and maintained, it’s ready to go. If it needsservice, have it done before starting out. Of course,you’ll find experienced and able service experts inBuick dealerships all across North America. They’ll beready and willing to help if you need it.Here are some things you can check before a trip:0 Windshield Wclsher Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Areall windows clean inside and outside?0 Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?0 Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checkedall levels?0 Larnps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?0 Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough forlong-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to therecommended pressure?0 Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlookalong your route? Should you delay your trip a shorttime to avoid a major storm system?0 Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?4-21

Highway HypnosisIs there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”?Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call ithighway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever.There is something about an easy stretch of road with thesame scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road,the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind againstthe vehicle that can make you sleepy. Don’t let it happento you ! If it does, your vehicle can leave the road in lessthan a second, and you could crash and be injured.What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, beaware that it can happen.Then here are some tips:0 Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with acomfortably cool interior.0 Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and tothe sides, Check your rearview mirrors and yourinstruments frequently.0 If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, serviceor parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, orboth. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway asan emergency.Hill and Mountain RoadsDriving on steep hills or mountains is different fromdriving in flat or rolling terrain.4-22

If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’replanning to visit there, here are some tips that can makeyour trips safer and more enjoyable.0 Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluidlevels and also the brakes, tires, cooling systemand transaxle. These parts can work hard onmountain roads.Know how to go down hills. The most importantthing to know is this: let your engine do some of theslowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you godown a steep or long hill.A CAUTION:Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with theignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have todo all the work of slowing down. They could get sohot that they wouldn’t work well. You would thenhave poor braking or even none going down a hill.You could crash. Always have your engine runningand your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.IIf you don’t shift down, your brakes could getso hot that they wouldn’t work well. You wouldthen have poor braking or even none goingdown a hill. You could crash. Shift down to letyour engine assist your brakes on a steepdownhill slope.Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift downto a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engineand transaxle, and you can climb the hill better.Stay in your own lane when driving on two-laneroads in hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cutacross the center of the road. Drive at speeds that letyou stay in your own lane.As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There could besomething in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident.You may see highway signs on mountains that warnof special problems. Examples are long grades,passing or no-passing zones, a falling rocks areaor winding roads. Be alert to these and takeappropriate action.4-23

W* kter DrivingHere are some tips for winter driving:Have your Buick in good shape for winter.You may want to put winter emergency supplies inyour vehicle.Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supplyof windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outerclothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and acouple of reflective warning triangles. And, if you willbe driving under severe conditions, include a small bagof sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bagsto help provide traction. Be sure you properly securethese item in your vehicle.4-24

Driving on Snow or IceMost of the time, those places where your tires meet theroad probably have good traction.However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and theroad, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have alot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful.What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very coldsnow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wetice can be even more trouble because it may offer theleast traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s aboutfreezing (32°F; 0°C) and freezing rain begins to fall.Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crewscan get there.Whatever the condition -- smooth ice, packed, blowingor loose snow -- drive with caution. Accelerate gently.Try not to break the fragile traction. If you acceleratetoo fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surfaceunder the tires even more.Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stabilitywhen you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Eventhough you have the anti-lock braking system, you’llwant to begin stopping sooner than you would on drypavement. See “Anti-Lock” in the Index.Allow greater following distance on any slippery road.Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fineuntil you hit a spot that’s covered with ice. On anotherwise clear road, ice patches may appear inshaded areas where the sun can’t reach: aroundclumps of trees, behind buildings or under bridges.Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass mayremain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. Ifyou see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before youare on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually onthe ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.4-25

If You're Caught in a BlizzaruPut on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you.If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make bodyinsulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floormats -- anything you can wrap around yourself ortuck under your clothing to keep warm.If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in aserious situation. You should probably stay with yourvehicle unless you know for sure that you are near helpand you can hike through the snow. Here are somethings to do to summon help and keep yourself and yourpassengers safe:Turn on your hazard flashers.0 Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police thatyou've been stopped by the snow.You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.4-26

Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle.This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gasto get inside. CO could overcome you and killyou. You can’t see !it or smell it, so you might notknow it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow fromaround the base of your vehicle, especially anythat is blocking ‘your exhaust pipe. And checkaround again from time to time to be sure snowdoesn’t collect there.Open a window just a little on the side of thevehicle that’s away from the wind. This will helpkeep CO out.Run your erigine only as long as you must. This savesfuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little fasterthan just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. Thisuses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps thebattery charged. You will need a well-charged battery torestart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later onwith your headlamps. Let the heater run for awhile.Then, shut the engine off and close the window almostall the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine againand repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortablefrom the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve thefuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can getout of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercisesevery half hour or so until help comes.

Loading Your VehicleTIRE-LOADING INFORMATIONVEHICLE CAP. WT.FRT. CTR. RR. TOTAL LBS.MAX. LOADING & GVWR SAME AS VEHICLECAPACITY WEIGHT XXX COLD TIRETIRE SIZE SPEED PRESSURERTG PSI/KPaFRT.RR.SPA.IF TIRES ARE HOT, ADD 4PS1/28KPaSEE OWNER’S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONALINFORMATIONTwo labels on your vehicle show how much weight itmay properly carry. The Tire-Loading Information labelfound on the rear edge of the driver’s door tells you theproper size, speed rating and recommended inflationpressures for the tires on your vehicle. It also gives youimportant information about the number of people thatcan be in your vehicle and the total weight that you cancarry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weightand includes the weight of all occupants, cargo and allnonfactory-installed options.MFD BY GENERAL MOTORS CORPDATE GVWR GAWR FRT GAWR RRTHIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLI-CABLE U.S. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLESAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTIONSTANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OFMANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE.The other label, is the Certification label, found on therear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the grossweight capacity of your vehicle, called the GVWR(Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includesthe weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo.Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GrossAxle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front orrear axle.If you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out.Don’t carry more than 160 lbs. (72 kg) in the sedantrunk or 300 lbs. (136 kg) in the wagon rear area.I

Note: If for some reason the driver’s door becomesdamaged and needs to be replaced, ask that theinformation on the Tire-Loading Information label andthe Certification label be written down so you may keepit on file.Do not load your vehicle any heavier thanthe GVWR, or either the maximum front orrear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehiclecan break, or it can change the way your vehiclehandles. These could cause you to lose control.Also, overloading can shorten the life ofyour vehicle.If you put things inside your vehicle -- like suitcases,tools, packages, or anything else -- they will go as fastas the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly,or if there is a crash, they’ll keep going.Things you put inside your vehiclexan strikeand injure people in a sudden stop or turn, orin a crash.Put things in the trunk or rear area of yourvehicle. In a trunk, put them as far forwardas you can. Try to spread the weight evenly.Never stack heavier things, like: suitcases,inside the vehicle so that some of them areabove the tops of the seats.0 Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint inyour vehicle.When you carry something inside thevehicle, secure it whenever you can.Don’t leave a seat folded down unless youneed to.4-29

lg a TrailerA CAUTION:If you don’t use the correct equipment and driveproperly, you can lose control when you pull atrailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, thebrakes may not work well -- or even at all. Youand your passengers could be seriously injured.Pull a trailer only if you have followed all thesteps in thisection. Ask your Buick dealer foradvice and information about towing a trailerwith your vehicle.NOTICE:Pulling a trailer improperly can damage yourvehicle and result in costly repairs not covered byyour warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, followthe advice in this part, and see your Buick dealerfor important information about towing a trailerwith your vehicle.Do not tow a trailer if your vehicle is equipped with a2.2L (VIN Code 4) engine.Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the3.1L V6 (VTN Code M) engine and proper trailer towingequipment. To identify what the vehicle traileringcapacity is for your vehicle, you should read theinformation in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears laterin this section. But trailering is different than justdriving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changesin handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful,safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to beused properly.That’s the reason for this part. In it are manytime-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules.Many of these are important for your safety and that ofyour passengers. So please read this section carefullybefore you pull a trailer.Load-pulling components such as the engine, transaxle,wheel assemblies and tires are forced to work harderagainst the drag of the added weight. The engine isrequired to operate at relatively higher speeds and undergreater loads, generating extra heat. What’s more, thetrailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasingthe pulling requirements.

If You Do Decide To Pull A TrailerIf you do, here are some important points:e There are many different laws, including speed limitrestrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sureyour rig will be legal, not only where you live butalso where you’ll be driving. A good source for thisinformation can be state or provincial police.Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitchdealer about sway controls.Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 1,000 miles(1 600 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine,axle or other parts could be damaged.Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that youtow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 kmh) anddon’t make starts at full throttle. This helps yourengine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at theheavier loads.Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a trailer.Don’t drive faster than the maximum posted speedfor trailers (or no more than 55 mph (88 km/h)) tosave wear on your vehicle’s parts.Three important considerations have to do with weight:the weight of the trailer,the weight of the trailer tongueand the total weight on your vehicle’s tires.Weight of the TrailerYour vehicle can tow normally up to 1,000 lbs. (450 kg).If your vehicle has a 3.1 L V6 engine with a four-speedautomatic transaxle and is equipped with the optionalheavy-duty engine cooling system, it can tow up to2,000 lbs. (900 kg).It depends on how you plan to use your rig. Forexample, speed, altitude, road grades, outsidetemperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull atrailer are all important. And, it can also depend on anyspecial equipment that you have on your vehicle.You can ask your dealer for our trailering information oradvice, or you can write us at:Buick Motor DivisionCustomer Assistance Center902 E. Hamilton Ave.Flint, MI 48550In Canada, write to:General Motors of Canada LimitedCustomer Assistance Center1908 Colonel Sam DriveOshawa, Ontario LlH 8P74-31

Weight of the Trailer TongueThe tongue load (A) of any trailer is an importantweight to measure because it affects the total capacityweight of your vehicle. The capacity weight includes thecurb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry init, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. Andif you will tow a trailer, you must subtract the tongueload from your vehicle’s capacity weight because yourvehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See “LoadingYour Vehicle” in the Index for more information aboutyour vehicle’s maximum load capacity.If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailertongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailerweight (€3). If you have a weight-distributing hitch, thetrailer tongue (A) should weigh 12% of the total loadedtrailer weight (B).After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer andthen the tongue, separately, to see if the weights areproper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them rightsimply by moving some items around in the trailer.Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s TiresBe sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to therecommended pressure for cold tires. You’ll find thesenumbers on the Certification label at the rear edge ofthe driver’s door or see “Loading Your Vehicle” inthe Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVWlimit for your vehicle, including the weight of thetrailer tongue.A4-32

HitchesIt’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads area few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here aresome rules to follow:00Will you have to make any holes in the body of yourvehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do,then be sure to seal the holes later when you removethe hitch. If you don’t seal them, deadly carbonmonoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into yourvehicle (see“Carbon Monoxide” in the Index). Dirtand water can, too.The bumpers on your vehicle are not intendedfor hitches. Do not attach rental hitches orother bumper-type hitches to them. Use onlya frame-mounted hitch that does not attach tothe bumper.Safety ChainsYou should always attach chains between your vehicleand your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongueof the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the roadif it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructionsabout safety chains may be provided by the hitchmanufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow themanufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safetychains and do not attach them to the bumper. Alwaysleave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig.And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.Trailer BrakesDoes your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to readand follow the instructions for the trailer brakes soyou’ll be able to install, adjust and maintain themproperly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not tryto tap into your vehicle’s brake system. If you do, bothbrake systems won’t work well, or at all.4-33

Driving with a TrailerTowing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to getto know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel ofhandling and braking with the added weight of thetrailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you aredriving is now a good deal longer and not nearly asresponsive as your vehicle is by itself.Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform(and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector,lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer haselectric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving andthen apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be surethe brakes are working. This lets you check yourelectrical connection at the same time.During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that theload is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakesare still working.Following DistanceStay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as youwould when driving your vehicle without a trailer. Thiscan help you avoid situations that require heavy brakingand sudden turns.PassingYou’ll need more passing distance up ahead whenyou’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deallonger, you’ll need to go much farther beyond thepassed vehicle before you can return to your lane.Backing UpHold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that handto the left. To move the trailer to the right, move yourhand to the right. Always back up slowly and, ifpossible, have someone guide you.

Making TurnsI NOTICE:Making very sharp turns while trailering couldcause the trailer to come in contact with thevehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoidmaking very sharp turns while trailering.When you’re turning with a trailer, make widerturns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’tstrike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or otherobjects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signalwell in advance.Turn Signals When Towing a TrailerWhen you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need adifferent turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Checkwith your Buick dealer. The arrows on your instrumentpanel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lanechange. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will alsoflash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, changelanes or stop.When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrumentpanel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailerare burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behindyou are seeing your signal when they are not. It’simportant to check occasionally to be sure the trailerbulbs are still working.Driving On GradesReduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you startdown a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shiftdown, you might have to use your brakes so much thatthey would get hot and no longer work well.On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce yourspeed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce thepossibility of engine and transaxle overheating.If you are towing a trailer that weighs more than1,000 lbs. (450 kg) and you have an automatic transaxlewith overdrive, you may prefer to drive in THIRD (3)instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@I). Anoverdrive transmission is required if towing a trailer morethan 1,000 lbs. (450 kg).4-35

Parking on HillsYou really should not parK your vehicle, with a trailerattached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rigcould start to move. People can be injured, and bothyour vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’show to do it:1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift intoPARK (P) yet.2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release theregular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then, apply yourparking brake, and then shift to PARK (P).5. Release the regular brakes.When You Are Ready to Leave AfterParking on a Hill1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal downwhile you:mStart your engine;0 Shift into a gear; andRelease the parking brake.2. Let up on the brake pedal.3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks.4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks.Maintenance When Trailer TowingYour vehicle will need service more often when you’repulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for moreon this. Things that are especially important in traileroperation are automatic transaxle fluid (don’t overfill),engine oil, belt, cooling system and brake adjustment.Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Indexwill help you find them quickly. If you’re trailering, it’sa good idea to review these sections before you startyour trip.Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and boltsare tight.4-

Section 5 Problems on the RoadHere you’ll find what to do about some problems thatcan occur on the road.Hazard Warning FlashersYour hazard warning flashers let you warn others. Theyalso let police know you have a problem. Your front andrear turn signal lamps will flash on and off.Press the button in to make your front and rear turnsignal lamps flash on and off.- 5-1

Your hazard warning flashers work no matter whatposition your key is in and even if the key isn’t in.To turn off the flashers, pull out on the collar. Whenthe hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signalswon’t work.Other Warning Devices~f you carry reflective triangles, you can set one upat the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behindyour vehicle.Jump StartingIf your battery has run down, you may want to useanother vehicle and some jumper cables to start yourBuick. But please use the following steps to do it safely.A CAUTION:Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerousbecause:They contain acid that can burn you.They contain gas that can explode or ignite.They contain enough electricity to burn you.If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or allof these things can hurt you.1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-voltbattery with a negative ground system.

2.3.Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cablescan reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touchingeach other. If they are, it could cause a groundconnection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able tostart your Buick, and the bad grounding coulddamage the electrical systems.Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplugunnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarettelighter. Turn off all lamps that aren’t needed as wellas as radios. This will avoid sparks and help saveboth batteries. In addition, it could save your radio!NOTICE:4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries.IFind the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals oneach battery.ACAUTION:An electric fan can start up even when the engineis not running and can injure you. Keep hands,clothing and tools away from any underhoodelectric fan.If you leave your radio on, it could be badlydamaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered byyour warranty.5-3

Using a match near a battery can cause batterygas to explode. People have been hurt doing this,and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight ifyou need more light.Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’tneed to add water to the Delco Freedom@ batteryinstalled in every new GM vehicle. But if abattery has filler caps, be sure the right amountof fluid is there. If it is low, add water to takecare of that first. If you don’t, explosive gascould be present.Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you.Don’t get it on you. If you accidentally get it inyour eyes or on your skin, flush the place withwater and get medical help immediately.5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose ormissing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock.The vehicles could be damaged, too.Before you connect the cables, here are some basicthings you should know. Positive (+) will go topositive (+) and negative (-) will go to negative (-)or a metal engine part. Don’t connect positive (+) tonegative (-) or you’ll get a short that would damagethe battery and maybe other parts, too.Fans or other moving engine parts can injure youbadly. Keep your hands away from moving partsonce the engines are running.

Don’t let the otherend touch metal.Connect it to thepositive (+) terminalof the good battery.6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+)terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery.8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the goodbattery’s negative (-) terminal.5-5

9. Don't let the other endtouch anything untilthe next step. The otherend of the negative ,(-)cable doesn't go to thedead battery. It goes toa heavy unpaintedmetal part on theengine of the vehiclewith the dead battery.10. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) awayfrom the dead battery, but not near engine parts thatmove. The electrical connection is just as goodthere, but the chance of sparks getting back to thebattery is much less.11 .. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and runthe engine for a while.12. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery.If it won't start after a few tries, it probablyneeds service.5-6

13. Remove the cables in reverse order to preventelectrical shorting. Take care that they don’t toucheach other or any other metal.A. Heavy Metal Engine PartB. Good BatteryC. Dead BatteryTowing Your VehicleTry to have a Buick dealer or a professional towingservice tow your Century. See “Roadside Assistance” inthe index.If your vehicle has been changed or modified since itwas factory new by adding aftermarket items like foglamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, theseinstructions and illustrations may not be correct.Before you do anything, turn on the hazardwarning flashers.When you call, tell the towing service:That your vehicle has front-wheel drive.The make, model and year of your vehicle.Whether you can still move the shift lever.If there was an accident, what was damaged.When the towing service arrives, let the tow operatorknow that this manual contains detailed towinginstructions and illustrations. The operator may wantto see them.

To help avoid injury to you or others:Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that isbeing towed.0 Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds.0 Never tow with damaged parts notfully secured.Never get under your vehicle after it hasbeen lifted by the tow truck.Always secure the vehicle on each side withseparate safety chains when towing it.0 Never use J-hooks. Use T-hooks instead.UA vehicle can fall from a car carrier if it isn’tadequately secured. This can cause a collision,serious personal injury and vehicle damage. Thevehicle should be tightly secured with chains orsteel cables before is it transported.Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps,canvas webbing, etc.) that can be cut by sharpedges underneath the towed vehicle. Always useT-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots. Never useJ-hooks. They will damage drivetrain andsuspension components.When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignitionkey in the OFF position. The steering wheel shouldbe clamped in a straight-ahead position, with aclamping device designed for towing service. Do notuse the vehicle’s steering column lock for this. Thetransaxle should be in NEUTRAL (N) and theparking brake released.5-8

Front TowingTow Limit,s -- 35 mph (56 krn/h), 50 miles (80 km)Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all theinformation in “Towing Your Vehicle” earlier in this part.Don’t have your vehicle towed on the front wheels,unless you must. If the vehicle must be towed on thefront wheels, don’t exceed the above limits or yourtransaxle will be damaged. If these limits must beexceeded, then the front wheels have to be supportedon a dolly.1. Attach T-hook chains behind the front wheels, intothe bottom of the floor pan, on both sides.5-9

2. Position a 4”x 4” wood beam across sling chainswith spacer blocks contacting the forward extensionsof the engine cradle.3. Position the lower sling crossbar halfway betweenthe timber and the lower edge of the fascia.5-10

Rear TowingBefore hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read allthe information in “Towing Your Vehicle” earlier inthis section.Fp.4. Attach a separate safety chain around the outboardend of each lower control arm.1. Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slottedholes in the floor pan, just ahead of the rear wheels.5-11

.. .. .I"=--I2. Position the lower sling crossbar directly under therear bumper.3. Attach a separate safety chain to each side of the axleinboard of the spring.5-12

Engine OverheatingYou will find a coolant temperature gage or thewarning light about a hot engine on your Buick’sinstrument panel.If St1 .-m Is 1 - -ng Fro Your EngineSteam from an overheated engine can burn youbadly, even if you just open the hood. Stay awayfrom the engine if you see or hear steam comingfrom it. Just turn it off and get everyone awayfrom the vehicle until it cools down. Wait untilthere is no sign of steam or coolant beforeopening the hood.If you keep driving when your engine isoverheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You orothers could be badly burned. Stop your engine ifit overheats, and get out of the vehicle until theengine is cool.NOTICE:If your engine catches fire because you keepdriving with no coolant, your vehicle can bebadly damaged. The costly repairs would not becovered by your warranty.5-13

If No Steam Is Coming From Your EngineIf you get the overheat warning but see or hear nosteam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimesthe engine can get a little too hot when you:Climb a long hill on a hot day.Stop after high-speed driving.Idle for long periods in traffic.Tow a trailer.If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam,try this for a minute or so:1. Turn off your air conditioner.2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fanspeed and open the window as necessary.3. If you’re in a traffic jam, shift to NEUTRAL (N);otherwise, shift to the highest gear whiledriving -- AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@)or DRIVE (D).If you no longer have the overheat warning, youcan drive. Justo be safe, drive slower for about10 minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on,you can drive normally.If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park yourvehicle right away.If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the enginefor two or three minutes while you’re parked, to see ifthe warning stops. But then, if you still have thewarning, turn ofthe engine and get everyone out of thevehicle until it cools down.You may decide not to lift the hood but to get servicehelp right away.5-14

When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s whatyou’ll see:2.2L L4 Cooling SystemA. Coolant Recovery TankB. Radiator Pressure CapC. Electric Engine Fan3.1L V6 Cooling SystemA. Coolant Recovery TankB. Radiator Pressure CapC. Electric Engine Fan5-15

( A C A u TT” I:An electric fan under the hood can start up evenwhen the engine is not running and can injureyou. Keep hands, clothing and tools away fromany underhood electric fan.If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling,don’t do anything else until it cools down.3.1L V6 EngineThe coolant level should be at the FULL HOT mark. Ifit isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heaterhoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in thecooling system.2.2L L4 Engine5-16

A C U-ION:Heater and radiator hoses, and other engineparts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If youdo, you can be burned.Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you runthe engine, it could lose all coolant. That couldcause an engine fire, and you could be burned.Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.NOTICE:Engine damage from running your enginewithout coolant isn’t covered by your warranty.If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check tosee if the electric engine fan is running. If the engine isoverheating, the fan should be running. If it isn’t, yourvehicle needs service.How to Add Coolant to the CoolantRecovery TankIf you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolantlevel isn’t at ADD, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water(preferably distilled) and DEX-COOL (orange-colored,silicate-free) antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See“Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information.)Adding only plain water to your cooling systemcan be dangerous. Plain water, or some otherliquid like alcohol, can boil before the propercoolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warningsystem is set for the proper coolant mix. Withplain water or the wrong mix, your engine couldget too hot but you wouldn’t gethe overheatwarning. Your engine could catch fire and you orothers could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of cleanwater and DEX-COOL TM antifreeze.5-17

INOTICE:In cold weather, water can freeze and crack theengine, radiator, heater core and other parts.Use the recommended coolant and the propercoolant mix.IYou can be burned if you spill coolant on hotengine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycoland it will burn if the engine parts are hotenough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.1. .. .When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at theFULL HOT mark, start your vehicle.If the overheat warning continues, there’s one morething you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixdirectly to the raqiator, but be sure the cooling system is:cool before you do it.Ii.5-18

Steam and scalding liquids from a hot coolingsystem can blow out and burn you badly. Theyare under pressure, and if you turn the radiatorpressure cap -- even a little -- they can come outat high speed. Never turn the cap when thecooling system, including the radiator pressurecap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system andradiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have toturn the pressure cap.

How to Add Coolant to the RadiatorrI NOTICE:Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure.Failure to follow this procedure could cause yourengine to overheat and be severely damaged.2. Then keep turningthe pressure cap, butnow push down as youturn it. Remove thepressure cap.1. You can remove theradiator pressure capwhen the coolingsystem, including theradiator pressure cap andupper radiator hose, isno longer hot.,A CAUTION:You can be burned if you spill coolant on hotengine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycoland it will burn if the engine parts are hotenough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise untilit first stops. (Don’t press down while turning thepressure cap.)If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss meansthere is still some pressure left.5-20

i,I*La "LL2.2L L4 EngineThe 2.2L Engine (VIN Code 4) has one bleed valvelocated at the thermostat housing.3.1L V6 Engine3. After the engine cools, open the coolant airbleed valve.3.1 L V6 (VTN Code M): There are two bleed valves.One is located on the thermostat housing. The otheris located on the thermostat bypass tube.5-21

4. Fill the radiator with the proper mix, up to the baseof the filler neck.If you see a stream of coolant coming from an airbleed valve, close the valve. Otherwise, close thevalves after the radiator is filled.5. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from theengine compartment.6. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULLHOT mark.7. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, butleave the radiator pressure cap off.5-22

10. Then replace thepressure cap. At anytime during thisprocedure if coolantbegins to flow out ofthe filler neck, reinstallthe pressure cap. Besure the arrows on thepressure cap line uplike this.8. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel theupper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for theengine fan.9. By this time the coolant level inside the radiatorfiller neck may be lower. If the level is lower, addmore of the proper mix through the filler neck untilthe level reaches the base of the filler neck.11. Check the coolant in the recovery tank. The level inthe coolant recovery tank should be at the HOTmark when the engine is hot or at the COLD markwhen the engine is cold.5-23

If a Tire Goes FlatIt’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving,especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goesout of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly.But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a fewtips about what to expect and what to do:If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create drag that apulls the vehicle toward that,side. Take your foot off theaccelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel fely.Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake toa stop well out of the traffic lane.A rear blowout, particularly on a curve; acts much like askid and may require the same correction you’d use in askid. In any rear blowout, remove your foot from theaccelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control bysteering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may bevery bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gentlybrake to a stop -- well off ‘the road if possible.If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use yourjacking equipment to change a flat tire safely.Changing a Flat TireIf a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damageby driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard’warning flashers.IChanging a tire can cause an injury. The vehiclecan slip off the jack and roll over you or other‘people. You and they could be badly injured.Find a level place to change your tire. To helpprevent the vehicle from moving:1. Set the parking brake firmly.2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P).3. ”urn off the engine.To be even more certain the vehicle won’t ‘move,you can put blocks at the front and rear of thetire farthest away from the one being changed.That would be the tire on the other side of thevehicle, at the opposite end.

Removing the Spare Tire and ToolsSome steps apply to all models, others to just thesedan or wagon models. Follow the steps listed foryour vehicle.The following steps will tell you how to use the jack andchange a tire.The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and wheelwrench (B).5-25

SedanThe equipment you’ll need is stored in the trunk.1. Pull the carpeting from the floor of the trunk.2. Turn the center retainer bolt on the compact sparetire housing counterclockwise to remove it, then liftthe tire cover.3. Lift off the jack and remove the spare tire.4. Remove the wheel wrench from the bag.5-26

WagonThe equipment you’ll need is stored in the rear ofyour vehicle.1. Fold down the third seat, if so equipped. Thenremove the housing that covers the spare tire bycarefully pushing in on the top edge of the cover andpulling it away from the vehicle. Then lift up.4. Turn the two wing nuts counterclockwise andremove the jack retainer plate. Then pull out the jackand wheel wrench.2. Remove the wing nut from the center of the sparetire and remove the adapter.3. Remove the spare tire.5-27

Standard Wheel CoverWire Wheel CoverYou will be using the flat end of the wheel wrench toremove the wheel cover. Pry along the edge of the wheelcover until it comes off.Removing the wire wheel cover requires this wire wheelkey wrench.A. Put the flat end into the notch and carefully pry thesmall center cover off.

Removing the Flat Tire and Installing theSpare Tire1. Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts.Don't remove them yet.B. Remove the theft deterrent wheel nut by placingthe key end of the wire wheel wrench over thenut and turning it to the left. Pull off the wirewheel cover.C. Next, attach the wheel wrench to the bolt on the endof the jack. Raise the jack a little by rotating thewheel wrench clockwise (to the right).2. Position the jack under the vehicle nearest thetire to be changed. The jack location should beapproximately 5 inches (12.7 cm) from thewheel well.5-29

Gettir under a vehicle w1I it is jacked up isdangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, youcould be badly injured or killed. Never get undera vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.NOTICE:Raising your vehicle with the jack improperlypositioned will damage the vehicle or may allowthe vehicle to fall off the jack. Be sure to fit thejack lift head into the proper location beforeraising your vehicle.Sedan3. Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrenchclockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off theground for the spare tire to fit.5-30

5. Remove any rust or dirtfrom the wheel bolts,mounting surfaces andspare wheel.Wagon4. Then remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts towhich it is fastened, can make the wheel nutsbecome loose after a time. The wheel could comeoff and cause an accident. When you change awheel, remove any rust or dirt from the placeswhere the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In anemergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towelto do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wirebrush later, if you need to, to get all the rust ordirt off.5-31

Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If youdo, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel couldfall off, causing a serious accident.Place the spare on the wheel mounting surface.6. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of thenuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by handuntil the wheel is held against the hub.7. Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrenchcounterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.5-32

8. Tighten the wheel nutsfirmly in a criss-crosssequence as shown.L" CAUTION:I -Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightenedwheel nuts can cause the wheel to become looseand even come off. This could lead to an accident.Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you haveto replace them, be sure to get new GM originalequipment wheel nuts.Stop somewhere as soon as you can and havethe nuts tightened with a torque wrench to100 lb-ft (140 Nom).5-33

I NOTICE:Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead tobrake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoidexpensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheelnuts in the proper sequence and to the propertorque specification.Don’t try to put a wheel cover on your compact sparetire. It won’t fit. Store the wheel cover in the trunk or, ifyou have the wagon, in the rear cargo area, until youhave the flat tire repaired or replaced.A CAUTIGN:Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in thepassenger compartment of the vehicle couldcause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, looseequipment could strike someone. Store all thesein the proper place.I NOTICE:Wheel covers won’t fit on your compact spare. Ifyou try to put a wheel cover on your compactspare, you could damage the cover or the spare.

TIRE .--1.2.3.4.Place the tire, air valve up, in the tire storage area.Remove the extension bolt from the jacking toolsbag. Secure the tire by inserting and tightening theextension bolt through the center of the tire into thestorage area floor.Place the spare tire cover on the storage area, with thejack face down over the hole in the center of the board.Insert the center retainer bolt through the jack andsecure it by turning the bolt clockwise.NOTE: The cover will not fit flush when a flat tire isstored in this location.3OAD\ BAGSedan5-35

NUTWHEEL WREN0FULL SIZE FLAT /COMPACT SPARE,JACK RETAINER m\ \ \\!J JJ In-JACKUSE TOP HOLE WITH VALVE STEM OUTBOARI:FOR STORAGE OF FULL-SIZE FLATThe cover will not fit when a flat tire is stored inthis location.1.2.3.4.5.Store the wheel well cover in the floor compartment.Remove the tire retaining bolt from under the jackand position it in the slot above the jack.With the air valve facing you, place the flat tire inthe storage area.Insert the bolt through the top wheel stud holein the wheel.Place the spacer over the bolt and tighten thewing nut.Wagon5-36

Wagon Spare Cover ReplacementTo install the spare tire cover in your station wagonwhen you are finished changing the tire:1.2.3.4.5.Put the front lower corner of the cover into the floortrack. Overlap the lower rear edge of the front panel1 (2.54 m) to 2 inches (5.08 m).Slide the cover to the front; the tabs must go underthe rear edge.Insert the front upper corner into the track, at thebottom of the glass.Adjust the position of the cover to fit over theweatherstrip. Push the panel down into the track inthe floor.Push the panel to lock it into the track of the moldingat the bottom of the glass.Compact Spare TireAlthough the compact spare tire was fully inflatedwhen your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time.Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be60 psi (420 kPa).After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, youshould stop as soon as possible and make sure yourspare tire is correctly inflated. The compact spare ismade to perform well at posted speed limits fordistances up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), so you canfinish your trip and have your full-size tire repaired orreplaced where you want. Of course, it’s best to replaceyour spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Yourspare will last longer and be in good shape in case youneed it again.NOTICE:When the compact spare is installed, don’t takeyour vehicle through an automatic car wash withguide rails. The compact spare can get caught onthe rails. That can damage the tire and wheel,and maybe other parts of your vehicle.5’ -7

Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles.And don’t mix your compact spare tire or wheel withother wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your sparetire and its wheel together.I NOTICE:Tire chains won’t fit your compact spare. Usingthem can damage your vehicle and can damagethe chains too. Don’t use tire chains on yourcompact spare.If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud,Ice or SnowWhat you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck isto spin your wheels too fast. The method known as“rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, butyou must use caution.)N:I- -If you let your tires spin at high speed, they canexplode, and you or others could be injured. And,the transaxle or other parts of the vehicle canoverheat. That could cause an enginecompartment fire or other damage. When you’restuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don’tspin the wheels above 35 mph (56 km/h) as shownon the speedometer.

I NOTICE:Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of yourvehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheelstoo fast while shifting your transaxle back andforth, you can destroy your transaxle.For information about using tire chains on your vehicle,see “Tire Chains’’ in the Index.Rocking your vehicle to get it out:First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That willclear the area around your front wheels. Then shift backand forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear,spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release theaccelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly onthe accelerator pedal when the transaxle is in gear. Ifthat doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may needto be towed out. If you do need to be towed out, see“Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.5-39

NOTES

Section 6 Service and Appearance CareHere you will find information about the care of yourBuick. This section begins with service and fuelinformation, and then it shows how to check importantfluid and lubricant levels. There is also technicalinformation about your vehicle, and a part devoted to itsappearance care.ServiceYour Buick dealer knows your vehicle best and wantsyou to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to yourdealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GMparts and GM-trained and supported service people.We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM.Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:Doing Your Own Service WorkIf you want to do some of your own service work, you’llwant to get the proper Buick Service Manual. It tells youmuch more about how to service your Buick than thismanual can. To order the proper service manual, see“Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.6-1

Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting todo your own service work, see “Servicing Your AirBag-Equipped Buick” in the Index.You should keep a record with all parts receipts and listthe mileage and the date of any service work youperform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index.You can be injured and your vehicle could bedamaged if you try to do service work on avehicle without knowing enough about it.Be sure you have sufficient knowledge,experience, and the proper replacementparts and tools before you attempt anyvehicle maintenance task.Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts andother fasteners. “English” and “metric”fasteners can be easily confused. If you usethe wrong fasteners, parts can later breakor fall off. You could be hurt.FuelUse regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane orhigher. At a minimum, it should meet specificationsASTM D48 14 in the United States and CGSB 3.5-M93in Canada. Improved gasoline specifications have beendeveloped by the American Automobile ManufacturersAssociation (AAMA) for better vehicle performanceand engine protection. Gasolines meeting the AAMAspecification could provide improved driveability andemission control system protection compared toother gasolines.Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. If the octane isless than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise whenyou drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine.If you’re using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and youstill hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service.But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise whenyou’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal,and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get ridof pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that meansyou have a problem.6-2

If your vehicle is certified to meet California EmissionStandards (indicated on the underhood tune-up label), itis designed to operate on fuels that meet Californiaspecifications. If such fuels are not available in statesadopting California emissions standards, your vehiclewill operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federalspecifications, but emission control system performancemay be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp onyour instrument panel may turn on and/or your vehiclemay fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return to yourauthorized Buick dealer for diagnosis to determine thecause of failure. In the event it is determined that thecause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairsmay not be covered by your warranty.In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane enhancingadditive called MMT. If such fuels are used, youremission control system performance may be affected.The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrumentpanel may also turn on. If this occurs, return to yourauthorized Buick dealer for service.To provide cleaner air, all gasolines are now required tocontain additives that will help prevent deposits fromforming in your engine and fuel system, allowing youremission control system to function properly. Therefore,you should not have to add anything to the fuel. Inaddition, gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethersand ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may beavailable in your area to help clean the air. GeneralMotors recommends that you use these gasolines if theycomply with the specifications described earlier.I NOTICE:Your vehicle was not designed for fuel thatcontains methanol. Don’t use it. It can corrodemetal parts in your fuel system and also damageplastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’tbe covered under your warranty.6-3

Fuels in Foreign CountriesIf you plan on driving in another country outside theUnited States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard tofind. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel notrecommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairscaused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered byyour warranty.To check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, orcontact a major oil company that does business in thecountry where you’ll be driving.You can also write us at the following address foradvice. Just tell us where you’re going and give yourVehicle Identification Number (VIN).General Motors Overseas Distribution Corporation,North American Export Sales (NAES)1908 Colonel Sam DriveOshawa, Ontario LlH 8P7Filling Your Tank6-4

I BeI- -Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burnsviolently, and that can cause very bad injuries.Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refuelingyour vehicle. Keep sparks, flames, and smokingmaterials away from gasoline.I ne cap is behind a hinged door on the left side ofyour vehicle.To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left(counterclockwise).If you get gasoline on yourself and thensomething ignites it, you could be badly burned.Gasoline can spray out on you if you open, thefuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happenif your tank is nearly full, and is more likely inhot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly andwait for any “hiss” noise to stop. Then unscrewthe cap all the way.careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline frompainted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning theOutside of Your Buick” in the Index.6-5

When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right untilyou hear at least three clicks. Make sure you fully installthe cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuelcap has been left off or improperly installed. This wouldallow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See“Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.I NOTICE:Checking Things Under the HoodHood ReleaseTo open the hood, first pullthe handle inside thevehicle. It is located on thelower left side of theinstrument panel.If you need a new cap, be sure to get the righttype. Your dealer can get one for you. If you getthe wrong type, it may not fit or have properventing, and your fuel tank and emissions systemmight be damaged.6-6

Then go to the front of the vehicle and release thesecondary hood release.Lift the hood.Put the hood prop into the slot in the hood.IAn electric fan under the hood can start up andinjure you even when the engine is not running.Keep hands, clothing and tools away from anyunderhood electric fan.6-7

When you open the hood of your 2.2L engine you’ll see:A. Windshield Washer ReservoirB. Engine Coolant ReservoirC. Power Steering ReservoirD. Engine Oil Cap and Dipstick G. Engine FanE. Automatic Transaxle Dipstick H. Air CleanerF. Brake Fluid Reservoir 1. Battery6-8

When you open the hood of your 3.1 L engine you’ll see:AA. Windshield Washer ReservoirB. Engine Coolant ReservoirC. Power Steering ReservoirD. Automatic Transaxle DipstickE. Oil Fill CapE Engine Oil DipstickG. Brake Fluid ReservoirH. Engine FanI. Air CleanerJ. Battery6-9

Things that burn can get on hot engine parts andstart a fire. These include liquids like gasoline,oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer andother fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or otherscould be burned. Be careful not to drop or spillthings that will burn onto a hot engine.Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler capsare on properly.Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop.Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood andreturn the prop to its retainer. Then just let the hooddown and close it firmly.Underhood LampYour underhood lamp is designed to come on wheneveryou raise the hood.Engine OilIt's a good idea to check your engine oil every time youget fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil mustbe warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes todrain back into the oil pan. If you don't, the oil dipstickmight not show the actual level.Checking Engine OilPull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel orcloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again,keeping the tip down, and check the level.6-10

3.1L V6 EngineThe 3.1L V6 engine oil dipstick is yellow and is locatednear the front and center of the engine compartment.I2.2L L4 EngineThe 2.2L L4 engine oil dipstick is located in the fill capnear the front and center of the engine compartment.

When to Add Oil1If the oil is at or below the ADD line, then you’llneed to add some oil. But you must use the right kind.I This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcaseI capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in+he Index.NOTICE:Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has somuch oil that the oil level gets above thecross-hatched.area that shows the proper ’,operating range, your engine could be damaged.Just fill it enough to put the level somewhere in theproper operating range. Push the dipstick all the wayback in when you’re through.What Kind of Oil to ‘UseOils recommended for your vehicle can be identified bylooking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbolindicates that the oil has been certified by the AmericanPetroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil whichdoes not carry this Starburst symbol.If you change yourown oil, be sureyou use oil that hasthe Starburst symbolon the front of theoil container.If you have your oil changed for you, be sure the oil putinto your engine is American Petroleum Institutecertified for gasoline engines.You should also use the proper viscosity oil for yourvehicle, as shown in the following chart:6- 12

RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILSFOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, THE LOWESTSAL VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED ILL -AlURE RANGE.HOTWEATHER1 71+ 100-+EO-t 60“t 40.+ 16c4WOKFOR THISSYMBOLAs shown in the chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for yourvehicle. However, you can use SAE low-30 if it’s goingto be 0°F (- 18°C) or above. These numbers on an oilcontainer show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not useother viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50.NOTICE:Use only engine oil with the American PetroleumInstitute Certified For Gasoline Engines“Starburst” symbol. Failure to use therecommended oil can result in engine damagenot covered by your warranty.I+ 20 ’O! ICOLDWEATHERDONOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHERGRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDEDGM Goodwrench@ oil meets all the requirements foryour vehicle.Engine Oil AdditivesDon’t add anything to your oil. Your Buick dealer isready to advise if you think something should be added.

When to Change Engine OilSee if any one of these is true for you:e Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km).This is particularly important when outsidetemperatures are below freezing.e Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequentdriving in stop-and-go traffic).e Most trips are through dusty areas.e You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top ofyour car.aThe vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxior other commercial application.Driving under these conditions causes engine oil tobreak down sooner. If any one of these is true for yourvehicle, then you need to change your oil and filterevery 3,000 miles (5000 km) or 3 months -- whicheveroccurs first.If none of them is true, change the oil and filter every7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 12 months -- whicheveroccurs first. Driving a vehicle with a fully warmedengine under highway conditions causes engine oil tobreak down slower.What to Do with Used OilDid you know that used engine oil contains certainelements that may be unhealthy for your skin and couldeven cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skinfor very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap andwater, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throwaway clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (Seethe manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposalof oil products.)Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If youchange your own oil, be sure to drain all free-flowing oilfrom the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of oilby putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, intosewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead,recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. Ifyou have a problem properly disposing of your used oil,ask your dealer, a service station or a local recyclingcenter for help.Air CleanerYour air cleaner is on the driver’s side of the enginecompartment.Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when toreplace the air filter.See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.6-14

A CAUTION:Operating the engine with the air cleaner off cancause you or others to be burned. The air cleanernot only cleans the air, it stops flame if the enginebackfires. If it isn’t there, and the enginebackfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive withit off, and be careful working on the engine withthe air cleaner off.ITo check or replace the air filterNOTICE:IIf the air cleaner is off, a backfire can cause adamaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily getinto your engine, which will damage it. Alwayshave the air cleaner in place when you’re driving.1. Use a screwdriver to loosen the hose clamp, then liftthe rubber duct.6-15

..2. Remove the wing nut and pull off the cover. 3. Remove and replace the filter. Replace the cover,wing nut and rubber duct. Tighten the hose clamp.

~~Automatic Transaxle FluidA good time to check your automatic transaxle fluidlevel is when the engine oil is changed.Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles(83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one ormore of these conditions:In heavy city traffic where the outside temperatureregularly reaches 90” F (32°C) or higher.In hilly or mountainous terrain.When doing frequent trailer towing.Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.If you do not use your vehicle under any of theseconditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing.See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.How to CheckBecause this operation can be a little difficult, you maychoose to have this done at your Buick dealership’sService Department.If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructionshere, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.NOTICE:Too much or too little fluid can damage yourtransaxle. Too much can mean that some of thefluid could come out and fall on hot engine partsor exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure toget an accurate reading if you check yourtransaxle fluid.6-17

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxlefluid level if you have been driving:When outside temperatures are above 90 O F (32 O C).0 At high speed for quite a while.In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather.0 While pulling a trailer.To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normaloperating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°Cto 93°C).Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles(24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F(10°C). If it's colder than 50°F (lO"C), you mayhave to drive longer.Checking the Fluid LevelPark your vehicle on a level place. Keep theengine running.0 With the parking brake applied, place the shift leverin PARK (P).With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shiftlever through each gear range, pausing for aboutthree seconds in each range. Then, position the shiftlever in PARK (P).0 Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:

3.1L V6 EngineThe transaxle fluid dipstick handle is red and lookslike this.1. Pullout the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cleanrag or paper towel.2.2L L4 Engine2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds andthen pull it back out again.6-19

4T60-E Transaxle3.4.Check both sides of the dipstick, and read thelower level. The fluid level must be in thecross-hatched area.3T40 TransaxleIf the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push thedipstick back in all the way.6-20

How to Add FluidRefer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine whatkind of transaxle fluid to use. See “RecommendedFluids and Lubricants” in the Index.If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the properfluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area onthe dipstick.1. Pull out the dipstick.2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at thedipstick hole to bring it to the proper level.It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than a pint(0.5 L). Don’t overfiill. We recommend you use onlyfluid labeled DEXRON@-111, because fluid with thatlabel is made especially for your automatic transaxle.Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON-I11 is notcovered by your new vehicle warranty.0 After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level asdescribed under “How to Check.”0 When the correct fluid level is obtained, push thedipstick back in all the way.Superlift Shock Absc:rs (Option)If you have this option, you can level your vehicle fordifferent loads. As you need to, add air to the rear shockabsorbers through the air valve, located next to the fuelfiller cap behind the fuel filler door. Always keep aminimum pressure of 10- 15 psi (70- 105 kPa).After you load your vehicle, you can add pressure untilthe rear gets back to its normal riding height, but don’tgo above 90 psi (620 kPa).NOTICE:Do not use superlifts to raise your vehicle aboveits normal riding height. You can damage yoursuperlifts or other parts if you drive that way forlong periods.

Engine CoolantNOTICE:When adding coolant it is important that you useDEX-COOL TM (orange-colored, silicate-free)coolant meeting GM Specification 6277M.If silicated coolant is added to the system,premature engine, heater core or radiatorcorrosion may result. In addition, the engiuecoolant will require change sooner -- at30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months,whichever occurs first.@ Protect ag- rust and corrosion.@Help.keep the proper engine temperature.Let the w h g lightd md gages work asthey shouicl.

What to UseUse a mixture of one-half clean water (preferablydistilled) and one-half DEX-COOL TM (orange-colored,silicate-free) antifreeze that meets GM Specification6277M, which won’t damage aluminum parts. UseGM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) (GM PartNo. 3634621) with any complete coolant change. If youuse this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else.I NOTICE:If you use an improper coolant mix, yourengine could overheat and be badly damaged.The repair cost wouldn’t be covered byourwarranty. Too much water in the mix can freezeand crack the engine, radiator, heater core andother parts.lain water to your cooling systemcan be dangerous. Plain water, or some otherliquid like alcohol, can boil before the propercoolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warningsystem is set for the proper coolant mix. Withplain water or the wrong mix, your engine couldget too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheatwarning. Your engine could catch fire and you orothers could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of cleanwater and DEX-COOL TM (orange-colored,silicate-free) antifreeze.If you have to add coolant more than four times a year,have your dealer check your cooling system.NOTICE:If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have toadd extra inhibitors or additives which claim toimprove the system. These can be harmful.6-23

hacking Coc’mt!The coolant recovery tank is located on the passenger’sside of the engine compartment.When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be atADD or a little higher. When your engine is warm, thelevel should be up to FULL HOT or a little higher.* clding CoolantIf you need more coolant, add the proper mix at thecoolant recovery tank.If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty, addcoolant to the radiator. (See “Engine Overheating”in the Index.)I-Thrning the radiator pressure cap when theengine and radiator are hot can allow steam andscalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly.With the coolant recovery tank, you will almostnever have to add coolant at the radiator.Never turn the radiator pressure cap -- even alittle -- when the engine and radiator are hot..

Add coolant mix at the recovery tank, but be careful notto spill it.'B CAUTION:You can be burned if you spill coolant on hotengine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol,and it will burn if the engine parts are hotenough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.Radiator Pressure CapNOTICE:Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa)pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed toprevent coolant loss and possible engine damagefrom overheating. Be sure the arrows on the capline up with the overflow tube on the radiatorfiller neck.When you replace your radiator pressure cap, an AC@cap is recommended.ThermostatEngine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostatin the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops theflow of coolant through the radiator until the coolantreaches a preset temperature.When you replace your thermostat, an AC' thermostatis recommended.6-25

Power Steering FluidWhen to Check Power Steering FluidIt is not necessary to regularly check power steeringfluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system oryou hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this systemcould indicate a problem. Have the system inspectedand repaired.The power steering fluid reservoir is located on thepassenger’s side of the engine compartment.How To Check Power Steering FluidWhen the engine compartment is cool, unscrew the capand wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the capand completely tighten it. Then remove the cap againand look at the fluid level on the dipstick.The level should be at the FULL COLD mark. Ifnecessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up tothe mark.3.1L V6 Engine6-26

2.2L L4 EngineWhat to UseRefer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine whatkind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids andLubricants” in the Index. Always use the proper fluid.Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks anddamage hoses and seals.Windshield Washer FluidWhat to UseWhen you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to readthe manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will beoperating your vehicle in an area where the temperaturemay fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficientprotection against freezing.- 6-27

AdcJ Washer 1NOTICE:The windshield washer reservoir is located on thepassenger’s side of the engine compartment.The wagon rear washer fluid comes from the windshieldwasher reservoir.Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Addwasher fluid until the tank is full.0000When using concentrated washer fluid,follow the manufacturer’s instructions foradding water.Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washerfluid. Water can cause the solution to freezeand damage your washer fluid tank andother parts of the washer system. Also,water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid.Fill your washer fluid tank onlythree-quarters full when it’s very cold. Thisallows for expansion, which could damagethe tank if it is completely full.Don’t use radiator antifreeze in yourwindshield washer. It can damage yourwasher system and paint.6-28

BrakesBragoes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking outof the brake system. If it is, you should have your brakesystem fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later yourbrakes 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. If you add fluidwhen your linings are worn, then you’ll have too muchfluid when you get new brake linings. You should add(or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work isdone on the brake hydraulic system.Your brake master cylinder reservoir is here. It is filledwith DOT-3 brake fluid.There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in thereservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluidgoes down to an acceptable level during normal brakelining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid levelIf you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on theengine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hotenough. You or others could be burned, and yourvehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid onlywhen work is done on the brake hydraulic system.When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brakewarning light will come on. See “Brake System WarningLight” in the Index.

What to AddWhen you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brakefluid -- such as Delco Supreme 11 @ (GM PartNo. 1052535). Use new brake fluid from a sealedcontainer only, and always clean the brake fluidreservoir cap before removing it.II A CAUTION:With the wrong kind of fluid in your brakesystem, your brakes may not work well, or theymay not even work at all. This could cause acrash. Always use the proper brake fluid.NOTICE:0 Using the wrong fluid can badly damagebrake system parts. For example, just a fewdrops of mineral-based oil, such as engineoil, in your brake system can damage brakesystem parts so badly that they’ll have to bereplaced. Don’t let someone put in thewrong kind of fluid.0 If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’spainted surfaces, the paint finish can bedamaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluidon your vehicle. If you do, wash it offimmediately. See “Appearance Care’’ inthe Index.6-30

Brake WearYour Buick has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make ahigh-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are wornand new pads are needed. The sound may come and go orbe heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except whenyou are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).A CAUTION:The brake wear warning sound means thatsooner or later your brakes won’t work well.That could lead to an accident. When you hearthe brake wear warning sound, have yourvehicle serviced.NOTICE:Continuing to drive with worn-out brake padscould result in costly brake repair.Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brakesqueal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied.This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes.Fre’- -1ovement of brake calipers and properly torquedwheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brakepulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake calipersfor movement, brake pads for wear, and evenly torquewheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM specifications.Your rear drum brakes don’t have wear indicators, but ifyou ever hear a rear brake rubbing noise, have the rearbrake linings inspected. Also, the rear brake drums shouldbe removed and inspected each time the tires are removedfor rotation or changing. When you have the front brakesreplaced, have the rear brakes inspected, too.Brake linings should always be replaced as completeaxle sets.Brake Pedal TravelSee your dealer if the brake pedal does not return tonormal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedaltravel. This could be a sign of brake trouble.Brake AdjustmentEvery time you apply the brakes, with or without thevehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.6-31

Replacing Brake System Parts.Vehicle Storage1BatteryEvery new Buick has a Delco Freedom@ battery. Younever have to add water to one of these. When it's timefor a new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedombattery. Get one that has the replacement number shownon the original battery's label.6-32

Bulb ReplacementHalpqen BIJhcHeadlamp Bulb ReplacementFor the type of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” inthe Index.1 A CAUTION:Halogen bulb: ave pressu zed gas inside andcan burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You orothers could be injured. Take special care whenhandling and disposing of halogen bulbs.1. Turn the bulb assembly counterclockwise one-sixthof a turn, pressing in firmly, until the flanges alignwith the slots in the retainer ring.2. Pull out the bulb assembly.3. Disconnect the bulb base from the wiring harness bylifting the plastic locking tab.6-33

To replace the bulbassembly:Front lhrn and Parking Bulb and/orSidemarker Bulb Replacement1. Snap a new bulb into the wiring harness (A). Makesure the locking tab (B) is over the lock (C).2. Install the bulb assembly by putting the small tab (D)in the small notch in the retainer ring (E).3. Turn the bulb assembly 1/6 turn clockwise to lock itin place.1. Raise the hood.2. Insert a screwdriver into the loop of the spring,which can be seen just behind the bulb assembly.3. Pull the spring to the rear and slightly toward theoutside of the vehicle until the detent releases fromthe notch in the headlamp mounting frame.6-34

4. The bulb assembly is now loose. Pull it forward untilthe bulb assembly can be reached.To replace the turdparking bulb:1. Rotate the bulb socket housing 1/4 turncounterclockwise.2. Push in and turn the bulb counterclockwise toremove it.3. Put in the new bulb and turn it clockwise.4. Snap the wire connector onto the bulb assembly.To replace the sidemarker bulb:1. Remove the socket by turning it counterclockwiseand pulling it straight out.2. Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out ofthe socket.3. Insert the new bulb by pressing it straight intothe socket.4. Insert the socket by pressing it straight into the bulbhole and turning it clockwise.6-35

To reinstall the lamp:Guide the latch spring.through the opening inthe metal inner panel.Taillamp Bulb Replacement (Wagon)2.3.Engage the two blades on the lamp into the slots onthe headlamp while engaging the two pins at the rearof the lamp openings into the sockets on the rear ofthe lamp. The lamp is now in place.Insert a screwdriver into the loop on the latch spring.Pull ‘the spring to the rear and slightly center of thevehicle until the detent engages into the notch.Taillamp Bulb Replacement (Sedan)For the type of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” inthe Index.Replacing bulbs in the taillamp housing is difficult, andwe recommend that you see your dealer when you needa bulb replaced.YlFor the type of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” inthe Index.1. Open the liftgate.2. Remove the three Phillips head. screws.3. Pull the taillamp housing away from the body ofthe vehicle.

Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement4. Press the bulb housing release lever and turn thehousing 1/6 turn counterclockwise to remove it.5. To remove the bulb, push in and rotate itcounterclockwise.6. Reverse all steps to reassemble the taillamp.Replacement blades come in different types and areremoved in different ways. Here’s how to remove thetype with a spring release:1. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from the windshield.2. Press down on the spring with SI screwdriver and pullthe blade assembly off the wiper arm.3. Push the new wiper blade securely onto the wiper arm.For the replacement blade type and length, see“Capacities and Specifications” in the Index.6-37

TiresWe don’t make tires. Your new Buick comes withhigh-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. Ifyou ever have questions about your tire warranty andwhere to obtain service, see your Buick Warrantybooklet for details.I A CAUTION:Poorly maintained and improperly used tiresare dangerous.0 Overloading your tires can causeoverheating as a result of too much friction.You could have an air-out and a seriousaccident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” inthe Index.CAUTION: (Continued)CAUTION: (Continued)0 Underinflated tires pose the same danger asoverloaded tires. The resulting accidentcould cause serious injury. Check all tiresfrequently to maintain the recommendedpressure. Tire pressure should be checkedwhen your tires are cold.0 Overinflated tires are more likely to becut, punctured or broken by a suddenimpact -- such as when you hit a pothole.Keep tires at the recommended pressure.0 Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If yourtread is badly worn, or if your tires havebeen damaged, replace them.6-38

Inflation -- Tire PressureThe Tire-Loading Information label, which is on therear edge of the driver’s door, shows the correctinflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold.“Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at leastthree hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).NOTICE:Don’t let anyone tell you that, underinflation oroverinflation is all right. It’s not. If your tiresdon’t have enough air (underinflation), you canget the following:0 Too much flexingToo much heat0 Tire overloading0 Bad wear0. Bad handling0 Bad fuel economy.NOTICE: (Continued)NOTICE: (Continued)If your tires have too much air (overinflation),you can get the following:Unusual wearBad handlingRough rideNeedless damage from road hazards.When to CheckCheck your tires once a month or more.Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at60 psi (420 Pa).How to CheckUse a good quality pocket-type gage to check tirepressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflatedsimply by looking .at them. Radial tires may lookproperly inflated even when they’re underinflated.Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems.They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.6-39

Tire Inspection and RotationTires should be inspected every 6,000 to 8,000 miles(10 000 to 13 000 km) for any signs of unusual wear.If unusual wear is present, rotate your tires as soon aspossible and check wheel alignment. Also check fordamaged tires or wheels. See “When It’s Time for NewTires” and “Wheel Replacement” later in this section formore information.When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotationpattern shown here.Don’t include the compact spare tire in your tire rotation,After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front andrear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire-LoadingInformation label. Make certain that all wheel nuts areproperly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” inthe Index.1 A CAUTION:The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve moreuniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The firstrotation is the most important. See “ScheduledMaintenance Services” in the Index for scheduledrotation intervals.Rust or dirt on wheel, a or on the parts to whichit is fastened, can make wheel nuts become looseafter a time. The wheel could come off and causean accident. When you change a wheel, removeany rust or dirt from places where wheel theattaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you canuse a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but besure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if youneed to, to get all the rust or dirt off. (See“Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index.)6-40

When It’s Time for New TiresI 1One way to tell when it’sdtime for new tires is tocheck the treadwearindicators, which willappear when your tires haveonly 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) orless of tread remaining.You need a new tire if any of the following statementsare true:You can see the indicators at three or more placesaround the tire.0 You can see cord or fabric showing through thetire’s rubber.The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deepenough to show cord or fabric.0 The tire has a bump, bulge or split.The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage thatcan’t be repaired well because of the size or locationof the damage.Buying New TiresTo find out what kind and size of tires you need, look atthe Tire-Loading Information label.The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new hada Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec)number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires,get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That wayyour vehicle will continue to have tires that are designedto give proper endurance, handling, speed rating,traction, ride and other things during normal service onyour vehicle. If your tires have an all-season treaddesign, the TPC number will be followed by an “MS”(for mud and snow).If you ever replace your tires with those not having aTPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size,load range, speed rating and construction type (bias,bias-belted or radial) as your original tires.5-41

I\ CAUTION:Mixing tires could cause you to lose control whiledriving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types(radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may nothandle properly, and you could have a crash.Using tires of different sizes may also causedamage to your vehicle. Be sure to use the samesize and type tires on all wheels.It’s all right to drive with your compact spare,though. It was developed for use on your vehicle.Uniform Tire Quality GradingThe following information relates to the systemdeveloped by the United States National HighwayTraffic Safety Administration, which grades tires bytreadwear, traction and temperature performance. (Thisapplies only to vehicles sold in the United States.) Thegrades are molded on the sidewalls of most passengercar tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading system doesnot apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires,space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires withnominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm),or to some limited-production tires.While the tires available on General Motors passengercars and light trucks may vary with respect to thesegrades, they must also conform to Federal safetyrequirements and additional General Motors TirePerformance Criteria (TPC) standards.6-42

TreadwearThe treadwear grade is a comparative rating based onthe wear rate of the tire when tested under controlledconditions on a specified government test course. Forexample, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half(1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tiregraded 100. The relative performance of tires dependsupon the actual conditions of their use, however, andmay depart significantly from the norm due to variationsin driving habits, service practices and differences inroad characteristics and climate.Traction -- A, B, CThe traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, andC, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on wetpavement as measured under controlled conditions onspecified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is basedon braking (straightahead) traction tests and does notinclude cornering (turning) traction.Temperature -- A, B, CThe temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C,representing the tire’s resistance to the generation ofheat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested undercontrolled conditions on a specified indoor laboratorytest wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause thematerial of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, andexcessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.The grade C corresponds to a level of performancewhich all passenger car tires must meet under theFederal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. GradesB and A represent higher levels of performance on thelaboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.Warning: The temperature grade for this tire isestablished for a tire that is properly inflated and notoverloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, orexcessive loading, either separately or in combination,can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.Wheel Alignment and Tire BalanceThe wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balancedcarefully at the factory to give you the longest tire lifeand best overall performance.6-43

~ ~~ ~~~~~ ~ ~In most cases, you will not need to have your wheelsaligned again. However, if you notice unusual tire wearor your vehicle pulling one way or the other, thealignment may need to be reset. If you notice yourvehicle vibrating when driving on a smooth road, yourwheels may need to be rebalanced.Wl 21 ReplacementReplace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rustedor corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel,wheel bolts and wheel nuts should be replaced. If thewheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminumwheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See yourBuick dealer if any of these conditions exist.Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need.Each new wheel should have the same load-carryingcapacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted thesame way as the one it replaces.If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel boltsor wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM originalequipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have theright wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for yourBuick model.Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel boltsor wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. Itcould affect the braking and handling of yourvehicle, make your tires lose air and make you losecontrol. You could have a collision in which you orothers could be injured. Always use the correctwheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for replacement.NOTICE:The wrong wheel can also cause problems withbearing life, brake cooling, speedometer orodometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumperheight, vehicle ground clearance and tire or tirechain clearance to the body and chassis.See “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index for moreinformation.6-44

~~Used Replacement WheelsTire Chainsm -qPutting a used wheel on your vehicle isdangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used orhow many miles it’s been driven. It could failsuddenly and cause an accident. If you have toreplace a wheel, use a new GM originalequipment wheel.NOTICE:Use tire chains only where legal and only whenyou must. Use only SAE Class “S” type chainsthat are the proper size for your tires. Installthem on the front tires and tighten them astightly as possible with the ends securelyfastened. Drive slowly and follow the chainmanufacturer’s instructions. If you can hear thechains contacting your vehicle, stop and retightenthem. If the contact continues, slow down until itstops. Driving too fast or spinning the wheelswith chains on will damage your vehicle.6-45

Appearance CareRemember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Someare toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike amatch or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some aredangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space.When you use anything from a container to clean yourBuick, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warningsand instructions. And always open your doors orwindows when you’re cleaning the inside.Never use these to clean your vehicle:0 GasolineBenzeneNaphtha0 Carbon TetrachlorideAcetone0 Paint Thinner0 Turpentine0 Lacquer Thinner0 Nail Polish RemoverThey can all be hazardous -- some more thanothers -- and they can all damage your vehicle, too.Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can.In many uses, these will damage your vehicle:AlcoholLaundry Soap0 Bleach0 Reducing AgentsCleaning the Inside of Your BuickUse a vacuum cleaner often to get rid of dust and loosedirt. Wipe vinyl or leather with a clean, damp cloth.Your Buick dealer has two GM cleaners, a solvent-typespot lifter and a foam-type powdered cleaner. They willclean normal spots and stains very well. Do not usethem on vinyl or leather.Here are some cleaning tips:0 Always read the instructions on the cleaner label.Clean up stains as soon as you can -- before they set.Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to aclean area often. A soft brush may be used if stainsare stubborn.Use solvent-type cleaners in a well-ventilated areaonly. If you use them, don’t saturate the stained area.6-46

If a ring forms after spot cleaning, clean the entirearea immediately or it will set.Usin - lam-npe Cleanel- -In1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.hcuum and brush the area to remove any loosedirt.Always clean a whole trim panel or section. Masksurrounding trim along stitch or welt lines.Mix Multi-Purpose Powdered Cleaner followingthe directions on the container label.Use suds only and apply with a clean sponge.Don’t saturate the material.Don’t rub it roughly.As soon as you’ve cleaned the section, use a spongeto remove the suds.Rinse the section with a clean, wet sponge.Wipe off what’s left with a slightly damp papertowel or cloth.Then dry it immediately with a blow dryer.Wipe with a clean cloth.Using Solvent-Type Cleaner on FabricFirst, see if you have to use solvent-type cleaner at all.Some spots and stains will clean off better with justwater and mild soap.If you need to use a solvent:Gently scrape excess soil from the trim material witha clean, dull knife or scraper. Use very little cleaner,light pressure and clean cloths (preferablycheesecloth). Cleaning should start at the outside ofthe stain, “feathering” toward the center. Keepchanging to a clean section of the cloth.When you clean a stain from fabric, immediatelydry the area with a blow dryer to help prevent acleaning ring.

Special Cleaning ProblemsGreasy or Oily StainsStains caused by grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoepolish, coffee with cream, chewing gum, cosmeticcreams, vegetable oils, wax crayon, tar and asphalt canbe removed as follows:1. Carefully scrape off excess stain.2. Follow the solvent-type instructions described earlier.3. Shoe polish, wax crayon, tar and asphalt will stain ifleft on a vehicle’s seat fabric. They should be removedas soon as possible. Be careful, because the cleanerwill dissolve them and may cause them to spread.Non-Greasy StainsStains caused by catsup, coffee (black), egg, fruit, fruitjuice, milk, soft drinks, wine, vomit, urine and blood canbe removed as follows:1. Carefully scrape off excess stain, then sponge thesoiled area with cool water.2. If a stain remains, follow the foam-type instructionsdescribed earlier.3. If an odor lingers after cleaning vomit or urine,treat the area with a waterhaking soda solution:1 teaspoon (5 ml) of baking soda to 1 cup (250 ml)of lukewarm water.4. If needed, clean lightly with solvent-type cleaner.Combination StainsStains caused by candy, ice cream, mayonnaise, chilisauce and unknown stains can be removed as follows:0 Carefully scrape off excess stain, then clean withcool water and allow to dry.0 If a stain remains, clean it with solvent-type cleaner.Cleaning VinylUse warm water and a clean cloth.0 Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. Youmay have to do it more than once.0 Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain ifyou don’t get them off quickly. Use a clean cloth anda GM Vinylkeather Cleaner or equivalent product.

Cleaning LeatherUse a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap orsaddle soap.000For stubborn stains, use a GM VinyVLeather Cleaneror equivalent product.Never use oils, varnishes, solvent-based or abrasivecleaners, furniture polish or shoe polish on leather.Soiled leather should be cleaned immediately. Ifdirt is allowed to work into the finish, it can harmthe leather.ning the Top of tlInstrument Panelbse only mild soap and water to clean the top surfacesof the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones orwaxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshieldand even make it difficult to see through the windshieldunder certain conditions.Care of Safety BeltsKeep b-l+s cleaLnd dry.Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, itmay severely weaken them. In a crash, theymight not be able to provide adequate protection.Clean safety belts only with mild soap andlukewarm water.GlassGlass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner(GM Part No. 1050427) or a liquid household glasscleaner will remove normal tobacco smoke and dust films.Don't use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they maycause scratches. Avoid placing decals on the inside rearwindow, since they may have to be scraped off later. Ifabrasive cleaners are used on the inside of the rearwindow, an electric defogger element may be damaged.Any temporary license should not be attached across thedefogger grid.6-49

Cleaning the Outside of theWindshield, Backglass and WiperBladesIf the windshield is not clear after using the windshieldwasher, or if the wiper blade chatters when running, waxor other material may be on the blade or windshield.Clean the outside of the windshield with GMWindshield Cleaner, Bon-Ami Powder@ (GM PartNo. 1050011). The windshield is clean if beads do notform when you rinse it with water.Clean the blade by wiping vigorously with a clothsoaked in full-strength windshield washer solvent. Thenrinse the blade with water.Wiper blades should be checked on a regular basis andreplaced when worn.WeatherstripsSilicone grease on weatherstrips will make them lastlonger, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Applysilicone grease with a clean cloth at least every sixmonths. During very cold, damp weather more frequentapplication may be required. (See “RecommendedFluids and Lubricants’’ in the Index.)Cleaning the Outside of Your BuickThe paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depthof color, gloss retention and durability.Washing Your VehicleThe best way to preserve your vehicle’s finish is tokeep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm orcold water.Don’t wash your vehicle in the direct rays of the sun.Don’t use strong soaps or chemical detergents. Useliquid hand, dish or car washing (mild detergent) soaps.Don’t use cleaning agents that are petroleum based,or that contain acid or abrasives. All cleaning agentsshould be flushed’promptly and not allowed to dry onthe surface, or they could stain. Dry the finish with asoft, clean chamois or a 100% cotton towel to avoidsurface scratches and water spotting.High pressure car washes may cause water to enteryour vehicle.6-50

Finish CareOccasional waxing or mild polishing of your Buick byhand may be necessary to remove residue from the paintfinish. You can get GM-approved cleaning productsfrom your dealer. (See “Appearance Care and Materials”in the Index,)Your Buick has a “basecoatklearcoat” paint finish.The clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the coloredbasecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that arenon-abrasive and made for a basecoatklearcoatpaint finish.1 NOTICE:Machine compounding or aggressive polishing ona basecoatklearcoat paint finish may dull thefinish or leave swirl marks.Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and othersalts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, birddroppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc.,can damage your vehicle’s finish if they remain onpainted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible.If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are markedsafe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weatherand chemical fallout that can take their toll over a periodof years. You can help to keep the paint finish lookingnew by keeping your Buick garaged or coveredwhenever possible.Aluminum Wheels (If So Equipped)Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth withmild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. Afterrinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A waxmay then be applied.The surface of these wheels is similar to the paintedsurface of your car. Don’t use strong soaps, chemicals,abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners or abrasive cleaningbrushes on them because you could damage the surface.Don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car washthat has silicon carbide tire cleaning brushes. Thesebrushes can also damage the surface of these wheels.6-51

TiresTo clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner.I NOTICE:-When applying a tire dressing always take care towipe off any overspray or splash from all paintedsurfaces on the body or wheels of the vehicle.Petroleum-based products may damage thepaint finish.Sheet Metal DamageIf your vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metalrepair or replacement, make sure the body repair shopapplies anti-corrosion material to the parts repaired orreplaced to restore corrosion protection.Finish DamageAny stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finishshould be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrodequickly and may develop into a major repair expense.Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-upmaterials available from your dealer or other serviceoutlets. Larger areas of finish damage can be correctedin your dealer’s body and paint shop.6-52

Underbody MaintenanceChemicals used for ice and snow removal and dustcontrol can collect on the underbody. If these are notremoved, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur onthe underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floorpan and exhaust system even though they have,corrosion protection.At least every spring, flush these materials from theunderbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mudand other debris can collect. Dirt packed in closed areasof the fi-ame should be loosened before being flushed.Your dealer or an underbody vehicle washing systemcan do this for you.Chemical Paint SDottingSome weather and atmospneric conditions can create a Ichemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon andattack painted surfaces on your vehicle. This damagecan take two forms: blotchy, ringlet-shapeddiscolorations, and small irregular dark spots etched intothe paint surface.Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Buickwill repair, at no charge to the owner, the. surfaces ofnew vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within12 months or 12,000 ,miles(20 000 km) of purchase,whichever occurs first.6-53

Appearance Care Materials Chart

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)~C. SAMPLE4UXTM072675 -CODE- MODEL YEAR PLANT IThis is the legal identifier for your Buick. It appears ona plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on thedriver’s side. You can see it if you look through thewindshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN alsoappears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Partslabels and the certificates of title and registration.Engine IdentificationThe eighth character in your VIN is the engine code.This code will help you identify your engine,specifications and replacement parts.Service Parts Identification LabelYou’ll find this label on your spare tire cover in thecoupe or sedan. In the wagon, you’ll find the label onthe wheel well (remove the spare tire cover to exposethe wheel well). It’s very helpful if you ever need toorder parts. On this label is:your VIN,the model designation,paint information, anda list of all production options and special equipment.Be sure that this label is not removed from the vehicle.6-55

Electrical SystemAdd-on Electrical EquipmentI NOTICE:Don’t add anything electrical to your Buickunless you check with your dealer first. Someelectrical equipment can damage your vehicleand the damage wouldn’t be covered by yourwarranty. Some add-on electrical equipmentcan keep other components from working asthey should.Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting toadd anything electrical to your Buick, see “ServicingYour Air Bag-Equipped Buick” in the Index.Headlamp WiringThe headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker inthe lamp switch. An electrical overload will cause thelamps to go on and off or, in some cases, to remain off.If this happens, have your headlamp system checkedright away.Windshield WipersThe windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuitbreaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavysnow, etc., the wiper will stop until the motor cools. Ifthe overload is caused by some electrical problem, haveit fixed.Power Windows and Other Power OptionsCircuit breakers in the fuse panel protect the powerwindows and other power accessories. When the currentload is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes,protecting the circuit until the problem is fixed.Engine A/C, EGR, Relays, SIR Crank andSafety Belt FusesThese fuses are located behind the glove box. The fuseholders are taped together with gray tape.Other - usesThe Safety Belt/Chime (ICAM) Module fuse and theRemote Keyless Entry fuse are located behind the fuseblock, above the hush panel.The Fuel Pump, A/C CONT and the ECM fuses arelocated under the hood.6-56

Fuses and Circuit Breakers. .The fuse panel is located inside the glove box, onthe left side.To change a fuse, open the glove box. Pull down onthe fuse panel latch and open the door. Pull the fusestraight out.To identify and check fuses, refer to the FuseUsage chart.Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If theband is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure youreplace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical sizeand rating.The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected fromshort circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers,and fusible thermal links in the wiring itself. Thisgreatly reduces the chance of damape caused byelectrical problems.6-57

Fuse I qe Chart Fuse CircuitryFuseECMINJ/COILI----ECM INJ/COIL UNLOCK FANiALTGAUGES STOP HAZ CTSY WDoFRONT VIEW OF FUSE BLOCKCircuitryPowertrain Control ModuleFuel InjectorsUNLOCKFAN/ALTTURN B/UAIR BAGTAILHTR A/CGAGESAuto Door Locks (Remove thisfuse to disable the automaticdoor unlock.)Electric Fan, Starterand Generator, Seq. FuelInj (V6), Cruise Control,Anti-Lock BrakesBack-up LampsSupplemental InflatableRestraint (Air Bag System)Taillamps, Parking, Sidemarker,License Plate, Stopflurn SignalHeater/Air ConditionerBlower ControlsIA? Cluster, Warning Indicators,Torque Converter Clutch,Audible Warning System, TrunkRelease, Brake WarningIndicator, Rear Defog Switch,Remote Keyless Entry,Headlamps, Air Bag System6-58

FuseSTOP HA2CTSYWDO*INST LPSCircuitryStoplamps, Hazard FlashersInterior, Underhood, Courtesy,UP, Trunk Lamps, Door Locks,Horn Relay, Passive RestraintSystem, Deck Lid Release,Power Antenna Remote KeylessEntry, Vanity MirrorPower WindowsIllumination for: I/P, Radio, PodLamps, Ashtray, Console Lamp,Heater and A/C Control, DefogSwitch, Headlamp Switch,Power AntennaFuseRADIOPWR ACC*WPRCIG LTR*Circuit BreakerCircuitryRadioSeats, Door Locks, Rear Defog,Power Seat Recliner, RearWindow Wiper, Trunk ReleaseWindshield WiperwasherCigarette Lighter6-59

Replacement Bulbs'OUTSIDE LAMPS BULB INSIDE LAMPS BULB'.Back-up Lamps . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 1156Ashtray ................................. 194Front ParkingEurn Signal Lamps . . . .. ... 2357NA Courtesy' Lamps,License Plate Lamp . ...... . , ... . ... . . . . . . . 194 Dome Lamp .. . . . ..... . . . . ........ .... 561Halogen Headlamps Glove Box Lamp .. . . .

Capacities and SpecificationsEngine Crankcasewith filter change .............................................. 4.5 quarts (4.2 L)Automatic Transaxle3-Speed (3T40)Pan Removal and Replacement ...................................... 4 quarts (3.8 L)After Complete Overhaul .......................................... 7 quarts (6.6 L)4-Speed with Overdrive (4T60-E)Pan Removal and Replacement ...................................... 6 quarts (5.7 L)After Complete Overhaul .......................................... 8 quarts (7.6 L)When draining or replacing torque convertel; more fluid may be needed.Cooling System2.2L L4 (Code 4):Radiator and Engine only ...................................... 6.06 quarts (5.73 L)Complete System ............................................ 8.27 quarts (8.17 L)3.1L V6 (Code M):Radiator and Engine only ...................................... 9.18 quarts (8.69 L)Complete System ............................................. 11.6 quarts (11.O L)6-61

Refrigerant (R=l34a), Air Conditioning*2.2L (Code 4) .................................................... 1.75 lbs. (0.8kg)3.1L V6 (Code M) ................................................. 2.0 Ibs. (0.9kg)*See “Air Conditioning Refrigerants” later in this section.Power SteeringPump Only2.2L L4 (Code 4) .................................................. 1 pint (0.47 L)3.1L V6 (Code M) ................................................. 1 pint (0.47 L)Complete System2.2L L4 (Code 4) ................................................ 1.7 pints (0.82 L)3.1L V6 (Code M) ................................................ 1.6 pints (0.75 L)Wheel Nut Torque ............................................ 100 lb-ft (140 N-m)Windshield Wiper Blade ReplacementType ...................................................... RH/LH 4.75 pin RRpinLength ............................................... 18” (457 mm) 16” (406 mm)Fuel Tank ................ ................................... 16.5 gallons 62.4 LTire Pressures, Sizes ........ ........ See Tire-Loading Information label on driver’s door.NOTE: All capacities are approx .i mate. When adding, be sure to fill to the appropriate level, as recommended in thismanual.6-62

Engine Specifications2.2LVIN Engine Code .............................. 4Type ....................................... L4Displacement .............................. 2.2 LitersFiring Order ............................... 1-3-4-2Thermostat Temperature ................... 195°F (91"C)Vehicle DimensionsSedanWheelbase ....................... 104.9 in. (2664 mm)Front Tread ........................ 58.7 in (1492 mm)Rear Tread ........................ 56.7 in. ( 1442 mm)Overall Length .................... 189.1 in. (4803 mm)Overall Width ...................... 69.4 in. (1762 mm)Overall Height ..................... 54.2 in. ( 1377 mm)3.1L V6MV63.1 Liters1-2-3-4-5-6195°F (91OC)Wagon104.9 in (2664 mm)58.7 in. (1492 mm)56.7 in. (1442 mm)190.9 in. (4851 mm)69.4 in. (1762 rnm)54.2 in. (1377 mm)6-63

Normal Maintenance Replacement PartsAir Cleaner Element2.2L L4 .................... AC Type A-905C3.1L V6 .................... AC Qpe A-925CEngine Oil FilterAll Engines ...................PCV ValveAC Type PF-472.2L L4 ................... AC Type CV-900C3.1L V6 ................... AC Type CV-892CSpark Plugs2.2LL4 .......................... 24574912Gap: 0.060 inch (1.50 mm)3.1L V6 .................... AC Type 041-940Gap: 0.060 inch (1 SO mm)Batteries8Remote .................Keyless Duracell TypeEntry Transmitter ........ DL2016 (2) or equivalentAir Conditioning RefrigerantsNot all air conditioning refrigerants are the same.If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needsrefrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used.If you’re not sure, ask your Buick dealer.6-64

Section 7 Maintenance ScheduleIIMPORTANT:KEEP ENGINE OILAT THE PROPERLE ,VEL AND CHANGERECOMMENDED ASThis section covers the maintenance required for yourBuick. Your vehicle needs these services to retain itssafety, dependability and emission control performance.Protectiob.PlanIntroductionYour Vehicle and the EnvironmentProper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep yourvehicle in good working condition, but also helps theenvironment. All recommended maintenance proceduresare important. Improper vehicle maintenance can evenaffect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluidlevels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the levelof emissions from your vehicle. To help protect ourenvironment, and to keep your vehicle in goodcondition, please maintain your vehicle properly.Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plansupplements your new vehicle warranties. See yourWarranty and Owner Assistance booklet, or your Buickdealer for details.7-1

How This Section is OrganizedThe remainder of this section is divided into five parts:“Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” showswhat to have done and how often. Some of theseservices can be complex, so unless you are technicallyqualified and have the necessary equipment, you shouldlet your dealer’s service department or another qualifiedservice center do these jobs.LPerforming maintenance work on a vehicle canbe dangerous. In trying to do some jobs, you canbe seriously injured. Do your own maintenancework only if you have the required know-howand the proper tools and equipment for the job.If you have any doubt, have a qualifiedtechnician do the work.If you are skilled enough to do some work on yourvehicle, you will probably want to get the serviceinformation GM publishes. See “Service and OwnerPublications” in the Index.“Part B: Owner Checks and Services” tells you whatshould be checked whenever you stop for fuel. It alsoexplains what you can easily do to help keep yourvehicle in good condition.“Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections”explains important inspections that your Buick dealer’sservice department or another qualified service centershould perform.“Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants”lists some products GM recommends to help keep yourvehicle properly maintained. These products, or theirequivalents, should be used whether vou do the workyourself or have it done.“Part E: Maintenance Record” provides a place foryou to record the maintenance performed on yourvehicle. Whenever any maintenance is performed, besure to write it down in this part. This will help youdetermine when your next maintenance should be done.In addition, it is a good idea to keep your maintenancereceipts. They may be needed to qualify your vehicle forwarranty repairs.7-2

Part A: Scheduled MaintenanceServicesUsing Your Maintenance ScheduleWe at General Motors want to help you keep yourvehicle in good working condition. But we don’t knowexactly how you’ll drive it. You may drive very shortdistances only a few times a week. Or you may drivelong distances all the time in very hot, dusty weather.You may use your vehicle in making deliveries. Oryou may drive it to work, to do errands or in manyother ways.Because of all the different ways people use their GMvehicles, maintenance needs vary. You may even needmore frequent checks and replacements than you’ll findin the schedules in this section. So please read thissection and note how you drive. If you have anyquestions on how to keep your vehicle in goodcondition, see your Buick dealer.This part tells you the maintenance services you shouldhave done and when you should schedule them. If yougo to your dealer for your service needs, you’ll knowthat GM-trained and supported service people willperform the work using genuine GM parts.The proper fluids and lubricants to use are listed inPart D. Make sure whoever services your vehicle usesthese. All parts should be replaced and all necessaryrepairs done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle.These schedules are for vehicles that:000carry passengers and cargo within recommendedlimits. You will find these limits on your vehicle’sTire-Loading Information label. See “Loading YourVehicle’’ in the Index.are driven on reasonable road surfaces within legaldriving limits,use the recommended fuel. See “Fuel’’ in the Index.Selecting the Right ScheduleFirst you’ll need to decide which of the two schedules isright for your vehicle. Here’s how to decide whichschedule to follow:7-3

Maintenance Scl aule1 Short Trip/City Definition 1Follow the Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule if anyone of these conditions is true for your vehicle:aaaaMost trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km).This is particularly important when outsidetemperatures are below freezing.Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequentdriving in stop-and-go traffic).Most trips are through dusty areas.You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top ofyour car. (With some models, you should never tow atrailer. See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.)0 If the vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxior other commercial application.One of the reasons you should follow this schedule ifyou operate your vehicle under any of these conditionsis that these conditions cause engine oil to breakdown sooneE7-4Short Trip/City Intervals-Every 3,000 Miles (5 000 km): Engine Oil and FilterChange (or 3 months, whichever occurs first).Every 6,000 Miles (10 000 km): Chassis Lubrication(or 6 months, whichever occurs first).At 6,000 Miles (10 000 km) -- Then Every12,000 Miles (20 000 km): Tire Rotation.Every 15,000 Miles (25 000 km): Air Cleaner FilterInspection, if driving in dusty conditions.Every 30,000 Miles (50 000 km): Air Cleaner FilterReplacement. Fuel Tank, Cap and Lines Inspection.Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System Inspection(2.2L Code 4 engine only).Every 50,000 Miles (83000 km): Automatic TransaxleService (severe conditions only).Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Engine AccessoryDrive Belt Inspection.Every 100,000 Miles (166 000 km): Cooling SystemService (or every 60 months, whichever occurs first).Spark Plug Wire Inspection. Spark Plug Replacement.These intervals only summarize maintenance services.Be sure to follow the complete maintenance schedule onthe following pages.

Maintenance ScheduleLOI- Tripmighway Definition Long Tripmighway IntervalsFollow this maintenance schedule only if none of theconditions from the Short TripKity MaintenanceSchedule is true.Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed engine underhighway conditions causes engine oil to breakdown slowel:gvery -1,500 Miles (12 5UV km): Engine Oil and FilterChange (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).Chassis Lubrication (or every 12 months, whicheveroccurs first).At 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) -- Then Every15,000 Miles (25 000 km): Tire Rotation.Every 30,000 Miles (50 000 km): Exhaust GasRecirculation (EGR) System Inspection (2.2L Code 4engine only). Air Cleaner Filter Replacement. FuelTank, Cap and Lines Inspection.Every 50,000 Miles (83 000 km): Automatic TransaxleService (severe conditions only).Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Engine AccessoryDrive Belt Inspection.Every 100,000 Miles (166 000 km): Cooling SystemService (or every 60 months, whichever occurs first).Spark Plug Wire Inspection. Spark Plug Replacement.Tlzese interwls ordv summarize maintenance services.Be sure to~follow the complete maintenance schedule on.the-following pages.7-5

I fdI 1 Short TripKity - Maintenance Schedule 1 ’I. .. IThe services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles(166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles(166 000 km) at the same intervals.FootnotesThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the. California Air Resources Board has determined that the’ failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullifythe emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to thecompletion of the vehicle’s useful life. We, however,urge that all recommended maintenance services beperformed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance. be recorded.I3,000 Miles ,(5000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first),An Emission Control Service.I I IDATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:I 7-6, I _A

Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule6,000 Miles (10 000 km) 1 9,000 Miles (15 000 km)c] Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for fieedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY:DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY:-7-7

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule12,000 Miles (20 000 km)Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).I15,000 Miles (25 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect air cleaner filter if you are drivingin dusty conditions. Replace filter ifnecessary. An Emission Control Sewice.DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY.IIDATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:7-8

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedu18,000 Miles’ (30 OOO’km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.Lubricate’the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).c] Rotate tires. ‘See“Tire Inspection ad Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers,for fieedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.21,000 Miles (35 000 km)El Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.I DATE I ACTUALMILEAGE ISERVICED BY:!’8 - 7-9

1 24,000,Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule- _-Miles (40 009 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. If” ~ equipped with grease fittings, lubricate the’. . ’ suspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).27,000 Miles (45 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Contrd Sewice.-DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:I I I

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule 130,000 Miles (50 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).Replace air cleaner filter.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)system (2.2L Code 4 engine only).An Emission Control Service. 3-0 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damageor leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket forany damage. Replace parts as needed.An Emission Control Service.0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection andRotation” in the Index for proper rotationpattern and additional information. Duringtire rotation, check brake calipers forfreedom of movement. Refer to theappropriate GM service manual for propercaliper service procedures.7-11

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule33,000 Miles (55 000 km)Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.I36,000 Miles (60 000 km)Cl Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY:I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE ISERVICED BXI7-12

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule 139,000 Miles (65 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service,I DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:42,000 Miles (70 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs fxst).An Emission Control Sewice.Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for freedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.7-13

I Short Tripkity Maintenance Schedule I45,000 Miles (75 000 km)I3 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.Inspect air cleaner filter if you are drivingin dusty cqnditions. Replace filter ifnecessary. An Emission Control Service.48,000 Miles (80 000 km)I3 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, 'lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).1 DATE I ACTUAL MJLEAGE !SERVICED BXIDATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:7-14

I Short Trip/City Maintenance ScheduleI50,000 Miles (83 000 km) 1 51,000 Miles (85 000 km)0 Change automatic transaxle fluid and filterif the vehicle is mainly driven under one ormore of these conditions:- In heavy city traffic where the outsidetemperature regularly reaches 90 O F(32 O C) or higher.- In hilly or mountainous terrain.- When doing frequent trailer towing.- Uses such as found in taxi, police ordelivery service.Ifyou do not use your vehicle under any of theseconditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing.I DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:-II0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.DATEACTUAL MILEAGEI- --

mip/City Maintenance Schedule I~~~ ~ ~54,000 Miles (90 000 km)Change engine oil and filter (of every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension’ and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for freedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.I I I.DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:57,000 Miles (95 000 km)I7 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.7-16

I Short TripKity Maintenance Scheducl60,000 Miles (100 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parlung brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).0 Inspect engine accessory drive belt.0 Replace air cleaner filter.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damageor leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for anydamage. Replace parts as needed.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)system (2.2L Code 4 engine only).An Emission Control Service.DATE SERVICED ACTUAL MILEAGEBY:7-17

1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I63,000 Miles (105 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY44,000 Miles (110 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for freedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.I DATE 1 ACTUAL MILEAGE ISERVICED BY: I7-18

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I69,000 Miles (115 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.72,000 Miles (120 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).DATE ACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BYDATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY:7-19

~ ~~ -I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I75,000 Miles (125 000 km)Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.Inspect air cleaner filter if you are drivingin dusty conditions. Replace filter ifnecessary. An Emission Control Service.I I I 3DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:78,000 Miles (130 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check.brake calipers for fi-eedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY:7-20

I Short TriplCity Maintenance SchedGa81,000 Miles (135 000 km)17 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.84,000 Miles (140 000 km)Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubrii-ate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).I DATE I ACTUALMILEAGE ISERVICED BXII DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:7-21

I Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule 187,000 Miles (145 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.90,000 1_'iles (150 000 km)[ZI Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).0 Replace air cleaner filter.An Emission Control Service.DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE ISERVICEDBY:

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I[7 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage orleaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage.Replace parts as needed.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)system (2.2L Code 4 engine only).An Emission Control Service.?0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for freedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.I DATEI ACTUAL MILEAGE ISERVKED SEI93,000 Miles (155 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I96,000 Miles (160 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every6 months, whichever occurs first).99,000 Miles (165 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every3 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.I DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BYDATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY

~ .~ -I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I100,000 Miles (166 000 km)17 Drain, flush and refill cooling system(or every 60 months since last service,whichever occurs first). See “EngineCoolant’’ in the Index for what to use.Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser,pressure cap and neck. Pressure testcooling system and pressure cap.An Emission Control Service.Inspect spark plug wires.An Emission Control Service.0 Replace spark plugs.An Emission Control Service.0 Change automatic transaxle fluid and filterif the vehicle is mainly driven under one ormore of these conditions:- In heavy city traffic where the outsidetemperature regularly reaches 90 OF(32°C) or higher.- In hilly or mountainous terrain.- When doing frequent trailer towing.- Uses such as found in taxi, police ordelivery service.If you do not use your vehicle under any ofthese conditions, the fluid and filter do notrequire changing.DATE.ACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY- z - ~- - _ .~~_ - :_ ~~- . . .7-25

Long Trip/Highway Maintenance ScheduleThe services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles(1 66 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles(1 66 000 km) at the same intervals.FootnotesThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or theCalifornia Air Resources Board has determined that thefailure to perform this maintenance item will not nullifythe emission wairanty or limit recall liability prior to thecompletion of the vehicle’s useful life. We, however,urge that all recommended maintenance services beperformed at the indicated intervals and the maintenancebe recorded.7,500 Miles (12 500 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whchever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See ‘Tie Inspection and Rotation’’in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for freedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY:7-26

Long TripMighway Maintenance Schedule 115,000 Miles (25 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY22,500 Miles (37 500 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for freedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY7-27

30,000 Miles (50 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).0 Replace air cleaner filter.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damageor leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket forany damage. Replace parts as needed.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)system (2.2L Code 4 engine only).An Emission Control Service.DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:-

I Long Tripmighway Maintenance Schedule I37,500 Miles (62 500 km)Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspdon and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for fieedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:45,000 Miles (75 000 km)Cl Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and ‘steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).DATEACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:

50,000 Miles (83 000 km)0 Change automatic transaxle fluid and filterif the vehicle is mainly driven under one ormore of these conditions:- In heavy city traffic where the outsidetemperature regularly reaches 90°F(32°C) or higher.- In hilly or mountainous terrain.- When doing frequent trailer towing.- Uses such as found in taxi, police ordelivery service.Ifyou do not use your vehicle under any of theseconditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing.DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:52,500 Miles (87 500 km)17 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for fieedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY:7-30

I Long; TripMighway Maintenance Schedule60,000 Miles (100 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).Inspect engine accessory drive belt.0 Replace air cleaner filter.An Emission Control Service.I0 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damageor leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket forany damage. Replace parts as needed.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)system (2.2L Code 4 engine only).An Emission Control Service.7-31

67,500 Miles (112 500 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact pints and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation’’in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for fieedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forDroDer caber service mocedures.tA7-32I A ADATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED B,X I75,000 Miles (125 000 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).’ An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody c,ontact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).IDATE ACTUAL MILEAGE 3ERVICED BY:

Long Tripmighway Maintenance Schedule82,500 Miles (137 500 km)Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for freedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.I 1I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE ISERVICED BY: I90,000 Miles (150 000 km)Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Service.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).0 Replace air cleaner filter.An Emission Control Service.(Continued)7-33

50 000 km) (Continued)0 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damageor leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket forany damage. Replace parts as needed.An Emission Control Service.0 Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)system (2.2L Code 4 engine only).An Emission Control Service.I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE I SERVICED BY I97,500 Miles (162 500 km)0 Change engine oil and filter (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).An Emission Control Sewice.0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides,underbody contact points and linkage. Ifequipped with grease fittings, lubricate thesuspension and steering linkage (or every12 months, whichever occurs first).0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation”in the Index for proper rotation pattern andadditional information. During tire rotation,check brake calipers for fieedom of movement.Refer to the appropriate GM service manual forproper caliper service procedures.DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY7-34

I- mg Tripmighway Maintenance Schedule100,000 Miles (1 66 000 ’ 2)0 Drain, flush and refill cooling system(or every 60 months since last service,whichever occurs first). See “EngineCoolant’’ in the Index for what to use.Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser,pressure cap and neck. Pressure test thecooling system and pressure cap.An Emission Control Service. 3-Inspect spark plug wires.An Emission Control Service.0 Replace spark plugs.An Erni,wion Control Service.0 Change automatic transaxle fluid and filterif the vehicle is mainly driven under one ormore of these conditions:- In heavy city traffic where the outsidetemperature regularly reaches 90 O F(32°C) or higher.- In hilly or mountainous terrain.- When doing frequent trailer towing.- Uses such as found in taxi, police ordelivery service.IJ‘yocr do not use your vehicle under any ofthese conditions, the fluid and filter do notrequire changing.DATEACTUAL MILEAGESERVICED BY

Part B: Owner Checks and ServicesListed below are owner checks and services whichshould be performed at the intervalspecified to helpensure the safety, dependability and emission controlperformance of your vehicle.Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to yourvehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shownin Part D.At Each Fuel FillIt is important for you or a service station attendant toperform these underhood checks at each fuel fill.Engine Oil Level CheckCheck the engine oil level and add the proper oilif necessary. See “Engine Oil” in the Index forfurther details.Engine Cc --ant - -el Chc -’LCheck the engine coolant level and add the propercoolant mix if necessary. See “Engine Coolant” in theIndex for further details.Windshield Washer Fluid Level CheckCheck the windshield washer fluid level in thewindshield washer tank and add the proper fluid ifnecessary. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Indexfor further details.At Least Once a MonthTire Inflation CheckMake sure tires are inflated to the correct pressures.See “Tires” in the Index for further details.Cassette Deck ServiceClean cassette deck. Cleaning should be done every50 hours of tape play. See “Audio Systems” in theIndex for further details.7-36

At Least Twice a YearRestraint System CheckMake sure the safety belt warning light and all yourbelts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages areworking properly. Look for any other loose or damagedsafety belt system parts. If you see anything that mightkeep a safety belt system from doing its job, have itrepaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced.Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, andhave them repaired or replaced. (The air bag systemdoes not need regular maintenance.)Automatic Transaxle CheckCheck the transaxle fluid level; add if needed. See“Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. A fluid lossmay indicate a problem. Check the system and repairif needed.At Least Once a YearKey Lock Cylinders ServiceLubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricantspecified in Part D.Body Lubrication ServiceLubricate all body door hinges. Also lubricate allhinges and latches, including those for the hood,rear compartment, glove box door, and any foldingseat hardware. Part D tells you what to use. Morefrequent lubrication may be required when exposed toa corrosive environment.7-37

- --Aer :h - eckA CAUTION:When you are doing this check, the vehicle couldmove suddenly. If it does, you or others could beinjured. Follow the steps below.Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI) CheckA CAUTION:When you are doing this check, the vehicle couldmove suddenly. If it does, you or others could beinjured. Follow the steps below.1. Before you start, be sure you have enough roomaround the vehicle.2. Firmly apply both the parking brake (see “ParkingBrake’’ in the Index if necessary) and theregular brake.NOTE: Do not use the accelerator pedal, and beready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The startershould work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Ifthe starter works in any other position, your vehicleneeds service.1. Before you start, be sure you have enoughroom around the vehicle. It should be parkedon a level surface.2. Firmly apply the parking brake (see “Parking Brake”in the Index if necessary).NOTE: Be ready to apply the regular brakeimmediately if the vehicle begins to move.3. With the engine off, turn the key to the RUNposition, but don’t start the engine. Without applyingthe regular brake, try to move the shift lever out ofPARK (P) with normal effort. If the shift levermoves out of PARK (P), your vehicle’s BTSIneeds service.7-38

Steering Column Lock CheckWhile parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turnthe key to LOCK in each shift lever position.The key should turn to LOCK only when the shiftlever is in PARK (P).The key should come out only in LOCK.Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P)Mechanism CheckA C AUTION:-When you are doing this check, your vehiclecould begin to move. You or others could beinjured and property could be damaged. Makesure there is room in front of your vehicle in caseit begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regularbrake at once should the vehicle begin to move.Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facingdownhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake,set the parking brake.To check the parking brake: With the engine runningand transaxle in NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove footpressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this untilthe vehicle is held by the parking brake only.To check the PARK (P) mechanism’s holding ability:Shift to PARK (P). Then release all brakes.Underbody Flushing ServiceAt least every spring, use plain water to flush anycorrosive materials from the underbody. Take care toclean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debriscan collect.7-39

Part C: Periodic MaintenanceInspectionsListed below are inspections and services which shouldbe performed at least twice a year (for instance, eachspring and fall). You should let your GM dealer’sservice department or other qualified service center dothese jobs. Make sure an.y necessary repairs arecompleted at once.Proper procedures to perform these services may befound in a Buick Service Manual. See “Service andOwner Publications” in the Index.Steering, Suspension and Front- Wheel-DriveAxle Boot and Seal InspectionInspect the front and rear suspension and steeringsystem for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs ofwear or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steeringlines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks,cracks, chafing, etc. Clean and then inspect the driveaxle boot seals for damage, tears or leakage. Replaceseals if necessary.Exhaust System InspectionInspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the body nearthe exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, missing or7-40out-of-position parts as well as open seams, holes, looseconnections or other conditions which could cause a heatbuild-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes intothe vehicle. See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.Radiator and Heater Hose InspectionInspect the hoses and have them replaced if they arecracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes,fittings and clamps; replace as needed.Throttle Linkage InspectionInspect the throttle linkage for interference or binding,and for damage or missing parts. Replace parts asneeded. Replace any cables that have high effort orexcessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and cruisecontrol cables.Brake System InspectionInspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines andhoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotorsfor surface condition. Also inspect drum brake liningsfor wear and cracks. Inspect other brake parts, includingdrums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc.Check parking brake adjustment. You may need to haveyour brakes inspected more often if your driving habitsor conditions result in frequent braking.

~~Part D: Recommended Fluids andLubricantsNOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name,part number or specification may be obtained from yourGM dealer.USAGEEngine OilEngine CoolantFLUIDLUBRICANTEngine oil with the AmericanPetroleum Institute Certified ForGasoline Engines “Starburst”symbol of the proper viscosity. Todetermine the preferred viscosityfor your vehicle’s engine, see“Engine Oil” in the Index.50/50 mixture of clean water(preferably distilled) and GMGoodwrench@ DEX-COOL TM orHavoline@ DEX-COOL TM(orange-colored, silicate-free)antifreeze conforming to GMSpecification 6277M. See “EngineCoolant” in the Index.USAGECoolantSupplementSealerHydraulic BrakeSystemParking BrakeCable GuidesPower SteeringSystemAutomaticTransaxleKey LockCylindersFLUIDLUBRICANTGM Part No. 3634621 orequivalent with a complete flushand refill.Delco Supreme 11 @ Brake Fluid(GM Part No. 1052535 orequivalent DOT-3 brake fluid).Chassis lubricant (GM PartNo. 1052497 or equivalent) orlubricant meeting requirements ofNLGI Grade 2, Category LB orGC-LB.GM Power Steering Fluid(GM Part NO. 1052884 - 1 Pt.,1050017 - 1 qt., or equivalent).DEXRON@-111 AutomaticTransmission Fluid.Multi-Pu ose Lubricant,Superlube % (GM PartNo. 12346241 or equivalent).7-41

USAGEChassisLubricationWindshieldWasher SolventHood LatchAssembly Pivots,Spring Anchorand ReleasePawlFLUIDLUBRICANTChassis lubricant (GM PartNo. 1052497 or equivalent) orlubricant meeting requirements ofNLGI Grade 2, Category LB orGC-LB.GM Optikleen’ Washer Solvent(GM Part No. 105 15 15) orequivalent.Lubriplate lubricant aerosol (GMPart No. 12346293 or equivalent)or lubricant meeting requirementsof NLGI Grade 2, Category LB orGC-LB.Hood and DoorHingesWeatherstripConditioningFLUIDLUBRICANTMulti-pu ose lubricant,Superlube % (GM PartNo. 12346241 or equivalent).Dielectric Silicone Grease (GMIPart No. 12345579 or equivalent).See “Replacement Parts” in the Index for recommendedreplacement filters and spark plugs.I

Part E: Maintenance RecordAfter the scheduled services are performed, record thedate, odometer reading and who performed the servicein the boxes provided after the maintenance interval.Any additional information from “Owner Checks andServices” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added onthe following record pages. Also, you should retain allmaintenance receipts. Your owner information portfoliois a convenient place to store them.Maintenance RecordDATEODOMETERREADINGSERVICED BYMAINTENANCE PERFORMED- -A7-43

Maintenance RecordODOMETERDATE READING SERVICED BYMAINTENANCE PERFORMED

Maintenance RecordI IODOMETERI I DATE READING READING SERVICED SERVICED BY BY MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE PERFORMED PERFORM

I ODOMETER IMaintenance RecordIDATE READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED7-46

Section 8 Customer Assistance InformationHere you will find out how to contact Buick if youneed assistance. This section also tells you how toobtain service publications and how to report anysafety defects.This section includes information on:The Customer Satisfaction ProcedureCustomer Assistance for TextTelephone (TTY) UsersRoadside Assistance0 Courtesy TransportationBBB Auto Line - Alternative DisputeResolution ProgramReporting Safety DefectsService and Owner PublicationsCustomer Satisfaction Procedure8-1

Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to yourdealer and Buick. Normally, any concern you may havewith your vehicle can be handled by your selling orservicing dealer. Your dealer has the facility, trainedtechnicians, special tools and up-to-date information topromptly address any issue which may arise. Buick hasempowered its dealers to make decisions and repairvehicles, and they are eager to resolve your concern toyour complete satisfaction. If your concern has not beenresolved to your satisfaction, take the following steps:STEP ONE -- Discuss your concern with a memberof dealer management. Normally, concerns can bequickly resolved at that level. If the matter has alreadybeen reviewed with the Sales, Service, or PartsManager, contact the owner of the dealership or theGeneral Manager.STEP TWO -- If after contacting a member ofdealership management, it appears your concern cannotbe resolved by the dealership without further help,contact the Buick Customer Assistance Center by calling1-800-521-7300. In Canada, contact GM of CanadaCustomer Assistance Center in Oshawa by calling1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).For help outside of the United States and Canada, callthe following numbers as appropriate:0 In Mexico: (525) 625-3256In Puerto Rico: 1-800-496-9992 (English) or1-800-496-9993 (Spanish)In the U.S. Virgin Islands: 1-800-496-9994In the Dominican Republic: 1-800-75 1-4135(English) or 1-800-75 1-4136 (Spanish)In the Bahamas: 1-800-389-0009In Bermuda, Barbados, Antigua and the BritishVirgin Islands: 1-800-534-0122In all other Caribbean countries: 1-809-763- 13150 In other overseas locations, call GM North AmericanExport Sales in Canada at 1-905-644-41 128-2

For prompt assistance, please have the followinginformation available to give the CustomerAssistance Representative:0Your name, address, home and businesstelephone numbers0 Vehicle Identification Number (This is availablefrom the vehicle registration or title, or the plate atthe top left of the instrument panel and visiblethrough the windshield.)0 Dealership name and location0 Vehicle delivery date and present mileage0 Nature of concernWe encourage you to call us so we can give your inquiryprompt attention. However, if you wish to writeBuick, write to:Buick Motor DivisionCustomer Assistance Center902 E. Hamilton AvenueFlint, MI, 48550Refer to your Warranty and Owner AssistanceInformation booklet for addresses of Canadian and GMOverseas offices.When contacting Buick, please remember that yourconcern will likely be resolved in the dealership, usingthe dealer’s facilities, equipment and personnel. Thatis why we suggest you follow Step One first if youhave a concern.Customer Assistance for TextTelephone (TTY) UsersTo assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, orspeech-impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs),Buick has TTY equipment available at its CustomerAssistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate withBuick by dialing: 1-800-83-BUICK. (TTY users inCanada can dial 1-800-263-3830.)8-3

Roadside Assista- --Buick Motor Division is proud to offer Buick PremiumRoadside Assistance to customers for vehicles coveredunder the 36 month/36,000 mile (60 000 km) new carwarranty (whichever occurs first).Our commitment to Buick owners has always includedsuperior service through our network of 3,000 Buickdealers. Buick Premium Roadside Assistance providesan extra measure of convenience and security.Buick Premium Roadside Assistance:- Provides owners with access to minor repairs ortowing for disabled vehicles.- Takes the anxiety out of uncertain situations byproviding easy access to service professionals trainedto work with Buick owners, 24 hours a day, 365 daysa year, including weekends and holidays.For details on Buick Premium Roadside Assistance,please consult your Buick Premium Roadside Assistanceowner booklet included with your owner’s manual. Forneeded assistance, call the Buick Premium RoadsideAssistance toll-free hotline: 1-800-252- 11 12.Canac Road e As! tanceVehicles purchased in Canada have an extensiveRoadside Assistance program accessible from anywherein Canada or the United States. Please refer to theseparate brochure provided by the dealer or call1-800-268-6800 for emergency services.

Courtesy TransportationTo Buick Motor Division, Quality Means Service -- andservice means “keeping you on the road.”Included with your 1996 Buick new car warranty(36 month/36,000 miles (60000 km), whichever occursfirst), is Courtesy Transportation, program a which willprovide Buick retail customers with:Reimbursement toward a loaner vehicle, courtesy ofBuick Motor Division, for up to five days forvehicles requiring overnight warranty repairs. Also,reimbursement up to $30 a day (five days maximum)may be available for the cost of a rental car, bus oreven a cab.A free one-way shuttle ride up to 10 miles from thedealership is available for customers whose vehiclesrequire same-day warranty repairs.Courtesy Transportation is Buick’s way of extending thePremium Service you’ve come to expect from Buickand its 3,000 dealers. Please review the CourtesyTransportation glove box card contained in your vehicle,or consult your Buick dealer for details.Some state insurance regulations make it impractical torent vehicles to people under 21 years of age. If you areunder 21 and have difficulty renting a vehicle, Buickwill reimburse you up to $30/day, for any documentedtransportation you receive. Please consult your dealerfor details.For warranty repairs during the Complete VehicleCoverage period in the New Vehicle Limited Warranty,interim transportation may be available under theCourtesy Transportation Program. Please consult yourdealer for details. The Courtesy Transportation programis available only in the United States and Canada.8-5

GM Participation in BBB AUTOLINE - Alternative DisputeResolution Program**This program may not be available in all states,depending on state law. Canadian owners refer to yourWarranty and Owner Assistance Information booklet.General Motors reserves the right to change eligibilitylimitations and/or to discontinue its participation inthis program.Both Buick and your Buick dealer are committedto making sure you are completely satisfied withyour new vehicle. Our experience hashown that,if a situation arises where you feel your concernhas not been adequately addressed, the CustomerSatisfaction Procedure described earlier in thissection is very successful.There may be instances where an impartial third partycan assist in arriving at a solution to a disagreementregarding vehicle repairs or interpretation of the NewVehicle Limited Warranty. To assist in resolving thesedisagreements, Buick voluntarily participates in BBBAUTO LINE.BBB AUTO LINE is an out-of-court programadministered by the Better Business Bureau system tosettle disputes between customers and automobilemanufacturers. This program is available free of chargeto customers who currently own or lease a GM vehicle.If you are not satisfied after following the CustomerSatisfaction Procedure, you may contact the BBB usingthe toll-free telephone number, or write them at thefollowing address:BBB AUTO LINECouncil of Better Business Bureaus4200 Wilson BoulevardSuite 800Arlington, VA 22203Telephone: 1-800-955-5100To file a claim, you will be asked to provide your nameand address, your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN),and a statement of the nature of your complaint.Eligibility is limited by vehicle age and mileage, andother factors.8-6

We prefer you utilize the Customer SatisfactionProcedure before you resort to AUTO LINE, but youmay contact the BBB at any time. The BBB will attemptto resolve the complaint serving as an intermediarybetween you and Buick. If this mediation isunsuccessful, an informal hearing will be scheduledwhere eligible customers may present their case to animpartial third-party arbitrator.The arbitrator will make a decision which you mayaccept or reject. If you accept the decision, GM will bebound by that decision. The entire dispute resolutionprocedure should ordinarily take about 40 days from thetime you file a claim until a decision is made.Some state laws may require you to use this programbefore filing a claim with a state-run arbitration programor in the courts. For further information, contactheBBB at 1-800-955-5100 or the Buick CustomerAssistance Center at 1-800-955-7300.REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTSTO THE UNITED STATESGOVERNMENTIf you believe that your vehicle has a defect which couldcause a crash or could cause injury or death, you shouldimmediately inform the National Highway TrafficSafety Administration (NHTSA), in addition tonotifying General Motors.If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open aninvestigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists ina group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedycampaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involvedin individual problems between you, your dealer, orGeneral Motors.To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto SafetyHotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in theWashington, D.C. area) or write to:NHTSA, U.S. Department of TransportationWashington, D.C. 20590You can also obtain other information about motorvehicle safety from the Hotline.8-7

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTSTO THE CANADIANGOVERNMENTIf you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehiclehas a safety defect, you should immediately notifyTransport Canada, in addition to notifying GeneralMotors of Canada Limited. You may write to:Transport CanadaBox 8880Ottawa, Ontario K1G 352REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTSTO GENERAL MOTORSIn addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada)in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notifyus. Please call us at 1-800-521 -7300, or write:Buick Motor DivisionCustomer Assistance Center902 E. Hamilton AvenueFlint, MI 48550In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English)or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write:General Motors of Canada LimitedCustomer Assistance Center1908 Colonel Sam DriveOshawa, Ontario L1H 8P78-8

1996 BUCK SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATIONThe following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling outthe 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.)SERVICE MANUALSService Manuals have the diagnosis and repair informationon engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes,electrical, steering, body, etc.RETAIL SELL PRICE: $90.00TRANSMISSION, TRANSAXLE, TRANSFER CASEUNIT REPAIR MANUALThis manual provides information on unit repair serviceprocedures, adjustments and specifications for the1996 GM transmissions, transaxles and transfer cases.RETAIL SELL PRICE: $40.00SERVICE BULLETINSService Bulletins give technical service information neededto knowledgeably service General Motors cars and trucks.Each bulletin contains instructions to assist in thediagnosis and service of your vehicle.CURRENT PUBLICATIONS FOR 1996 BUCKOWNER’S INFORMATIONOwner publications are written directly for Owner’s andintended to provide basic operational information about thevehicle. The owner’s manual will include the MaintenanceSchedule for all models.In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner’s Manual andWarranty Booklet.RETAIL SELL PRICE: $15.00Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only.RETAIL SELL PRICE: $10.00CURRENT & PAST MODEL ORDER FORMSService Publications are available for current and pastmodel GM vehicles. To request an order form, pleasespecify year and model name of the vehicle.

NOTES8-11

NOTES8-12

Section 9 IndexAir Bag ...................................... I -2 1How Does it Restrain .......................... 1-23How it Works ................................ 1-22Location .................................... 1-22Readiness Light ......................... 1-21? 2-49Servicing ................................... 1-25What Makes it Inflate .......................... 2-23What Will You See After it Inflates ............... 1-24When Should it Inflate ......................... 1-23Aircleaner .................................... 6-14Air Conditioning ................................ 3-2Air Conditioning Refrigerants ..................... 6-64Alignment and Balance. Tire ...................... 6-43Aluminum Wheels. Cleaning ...................... 6-5 IAntenna. Fixed ................................. 3-10Antifreeze ..................................... 6-22Anti-LockBrake System Active Light ................. 2-53. 4.8Brake System Warning Light ................ 2-5 1. 4.6Brakes ...................................... 4-6Appearancecare ............................... 6-46Appearance Care Materials ....................... 6-54Arbitration Program .............................. 8-6Armrest. Storage ............................... 2-39Ashtrays ...................................... 2-42Audio Equipment. Adding ......................... 3-9Audio Systems .................................. 3-4Automatic Door Locks ............................ 2-4Automatic Overdrive ............................ 2-17Automatic Transaxle Check ....................... 7-38Automatic Transaxle Fluid ........................ 6-17Automatic Transaxle Operation .................... 2-16Shifting ..................................... 2-16Automatic Transaxle Park Mechanism Check ......... 7-40Battery ...................................... 6.3 2Jump Starting ................................. 5-2Replacement. Remote Keyless Entry ............... 2-6Warning Light ............................... 2-50Warnings ................................ 5.2. 5.4BBB Auto Line ................................. 8-6Better Business Bureau Mediation ................... 8-6BrakeAdjustment .................................. 6-31Fluid ....................................... 6-29Master Cylinder .............................. 6-29Parking ..................................... 2-19PedalTravel ................................. 6-31Replacing System Parts ........................ 6-32System Warning Light ......................... 2-509-1

Trailer ...................................... 4-33Transaxle Shift Interlock ....................... 2-23Transaxle Shift Interlock Check .................. 7-39Wear ....................................... 6-31Brakes. Anti-Lock ............................... 4-6Braking ........................................ 4-5Braking in Emergencies ........................... 4-8Break.In. New Vehicle .......................... 2- 10BTSI ......................................... 2-23BTSICheck ................................... 7-39BulbReplacement .............................. 6-33Canadian Roadside Assistance .................... 8-4Capacities and Specifications ...................... 6-6 1Carbon Monoxide .................... 2.24.4.27. 4.33Cargo Security Cover ............................ 2-40Cassette Deck Service ........................... 7-37Cassette Tape Player ............................. 3-6Cassette Tape Player Care ......................... 3-9Center Passenger Position ........................ 1-27Certification Label .............................. 4-28Chains. Safety ................................. 4-33Chains. Tire ................................... 6-45Changing a Flat Tire .. t. .......................... 5-24Checking Your Restraint Systems .................. 1-46Chemical Paint Spotting .......................... 6-53Child Restraints ................................ 1-33Securing in a Rear Outside Seat Position ........... 1-34Securing in the Center Seat Position .............. 1-36Securing in the Right Front Seat Position .......... 1-38TopStrap ................................... 1-33WheretoPut ................................ 1-33Cigarette Lighter ............................... 2-42Circuit Breakers and Fuses ....................... 6-57Cleaner. Air ................................... 6-14Cleaning ...................................... 6-46Aluminum Wheels ............................ 6-51Fabric ...................................... 6-47Glass ....................................... 6-49Inside of Your Buick .......................... 6-46Instrument Panel ............................. 6-49Leather ..................................... 6-49Outside of Your Buick ......................... 6-50Special Problems ............................. 6-48Stains ...................................... 6-48Tires ....................................... 6-52Vinyl ....................................... 6-48Wheels ..................................... 6-51Windshield and Wiper Blades ................... 6-50Climate Control System ........................... 3-1Clock. Setting the ................................ 3-4Coinholder .................................... 2-39Comfort Controls ................................ 3-1Compact Spare Tire ............................. 5-37Control of a Vehicle .............................. 4-5Convenience Net ............................... 2-40Convex Outside Mirror .......................... 2-38Coolant ....................................... 6-22Bleedvalves ................................. 5-21Heater. Engine ............................... 2-14RecoveryTank ............................... 5-16Cooling System ................................ 5-15Courtesy Lamps ................................ 2-35Courtesy Transportation ........................... 8-5Cover. Cargo Security ........................... 2-409-2

Cruise Control .................................. 2-30Cupholders .................................... 2-39Customer Assistance for Text Telephone Users ......... 8-3Customer Assistance Information ................... 8- 1Customer Satisfaction Procedure .................... 8- 1Damage. Finish ............................... 6-52Damage. Sheet Metal ............................ 6-52Daytime Running Lamps ......................... 2-34Dead Battery ................................... 5-2Defects. Reporting Safety ......................... 8-7Defensive Driving ............................... 4- 1Defogger. Rear Window .......................... 3-3Defogging ..................................... 3-2Defrosting ..................................... 3-2Dimensions. Vehicle ............................ 6-63DoorLocks ....................................... 2-3Drive Position. Automatic Transaxle ................ 2- 18Driver Position ................................. 1 - 13DrivingCity ....................................... 4-19Defensive .................................... 4-1Drunken ..................................... 4-2Freeway .................................... 4-20In a Blizzard ................................. 4-26In Foreign Countries ........................... 6-4IntheRain .................................. 4-16Night ...................................... 4-14OnCurves ................................... 4-9On Grades While Towing a Trailer ............... 4-35On Hill and Mountain Roads .................... 4-22OnSnowandIce ............................. 4-25Through Deep Standing Water ................... 4-18Wet Roads .................................. 4-16Winter ...................................... 4-24With a Trailer ................................ 4-34DrunkenDriving ................................ 4-2Electrical Equipment. Adding ................ 3-9. 6-56Electrical System ............................... 6-56Engine 6-8. 6-9EngineCoolant ..................................... 6-22Coolant Heater ............................... 2-14Coolant Level Check .......................... 7-37Coolant Temperature Gage ..................... 2-54Coolant Temperature Warning Light .............. 2-53Exhaust ..................................... 2-24Identification ................................ 6-55OilLevelCheck .............................. 7-37Overheating ................................. 5-13Running While Parked ......................... 2-24Specifications ................................ 6-63Starting Your ........................... 2- 12. 2-13Engineoil .................................... 6-10Adding ..................................... 6-12Additives ................................... 6-13Checking ................................... 6-10Used ....................................... 6-14Whentochange .............................. 6-14Engine Oil Pressure Light ........................ 2-57Ethanol ........................................ 6-3Exhaust. Engine ................................ 2-249-3

Fabric Cleaning ............................... 6-47FillingYourTank ................................ 6-4Filter, Air ..................................... 6-14Filter, Engine Oil ............................... 6- 14Finish Care .................................... 6-5 1Finish Damage ................................. 6-52First Gear, Automatic Transaxle ................... 2- 19Flashers, Hazard Warning ......................... 5-1Flat Tire, Changing ............................. 5-24Fluids and Lubricants ............................ 7-42Foreign Countries, Fuel ........................... 6-4 ..French Language Manual ........................... 11Front Sidemarker Bulb Replacement ................ 6-34FrontTowing ................................... 5-9Front Turn and Parking Lamp Bulb Replacement ...... 6-34Fuel .......................................... 6-2Filling Your Tank .............................. 6-4Gage ....................................... 2-59In Foreign Countries ........................... 6-4Fuses and Circuit Breakers ....................... 6-57GagesEngine Coolant Temperature .................... 2-54Fuel ....................................... 2-59GAWR ....................................... 4-28Gear Positions. Automatic Transaxle ................ 2- 16GloveBox .................................... 2-38Gross Axle Weight Rating ........................ 4-28Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ...................... 4-28 ..Guide en Franpis ................................. 11GVWR ....................................... 4-289-4Halogen Bulbs ................................ 6-33Hazard Warning Flashers .......................... 5-1Head Restraints ................................. 1-4Headlamps .................................... 2-33Bulb Replacement ............................ 6-33High/Low Beam Changer ...................... 2-28Onwarning ................................. 2-34Wiring ..................................... 6-56Hearing Impaired, Customer Assistance .............. 8-3Heating ........................................ 3-2High-Beam Headlamps .......................... 2-28Highway Hypnosis .............................. 4-22Hill and Mountain Roads ......................... 4-22Hitches, Trailer ................................. 4-33HoodChecking Things Under ......................... 6-6Prop ........................................ 6-7Release ...................................... 6-6Horn ......................................... 2-26Hydroplaning .................................. 4-17Ignition Positions .............................. 2. 10Inflation. Tire .................................. 6-39Inside Daymight Rearview Mirror ................. 2-37Inspections .................................... 7-41Brakesystem ................................ 7-41Exhaust Systems ............................. 7-41Front-Wheel-Drive Axle Boot .................. 7-41Front-Wheel-Drive Axle Seal ................... 7-41Radiator and Heater Hose ...................... 7-41Steering .................................... 7-41Suspension .................................. 7-41Throttle Linkage .............................. 7-41

Instrument Panel ............................... 2-44Brightness Control ............................ 2-34Cleaning .................................... 6-49Cluster ..................................... 2-46FuseBlock .................................. 6-57Interior Lamps ................................. 2-34Jack. Tire .................................... 5-25Jump Starting ................................... 5-2Key Lock Cylinders Service ..................... 7-38Keys .......................................... 2-1Labels ....................................... 4-28Certification ................................. 4-28Service Parts Identification ..................... 6-55Tire-Loading Information ...................... 4-28Vehicle Identification Number ................... 6-55Lamps ........................................ 2-33Courtesy .................................... 2-35Interior ..................................... 2-34Interior Lamp Delay ........................... 2-35Onwarning ................................. 2-34Underhood .................................. 6-10Leaving Your Vehicle ............................. 2-4Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running ....... 2-22Liftgate Ajar Light .............................. 2-58LiftgateLock ................................... 2-8Lighter ....................................... 2-42LightsAir Bag Readiness ....................... 1-2 1 . 2-49Anti-Lock Brake System Active ............. 2-53. 4.8Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ............ 2-5 1. 4-6Battery Warning .............................. 2-50Brake System Warning ......................... 2-50Engine Coolant Temperature Warning ............. 2-53Engine Oil Pressure ........................... 2-57Interior ..................................... 2-34Liftgate Ajar ................................. 2-58Safety Belt Warning ............................ 1-8Safety Belt Warning ........................... 2-49Service Engine Soon .......................... 2-54Loading Your Vehicle ........................... 4-28Locks ......................................... 2-3Automatic Door ............................... 2-4Cylinders ................................... 7-38Door ........................................ 2-3Key Lock Cylinder Service ..................... 7-38Liftgate ...................................... 2-8PowerDoor .................................. 2-4Steering Column Lock Check ................... 7-40Trunk ....................................... 2-7Lubricants and Fluids ............................ 7-42Lubrication Service. Body ........................ 7-38Luggage Carrier ................................ 2-42Maintenance. Normal Replacement Parts ........... 6-64Maintenance Record ............................ 7-44Maintenance Schedule ............................ 7-1Long Trip/Highway Definition .............. 7-6. 7-27Long Trip/Highway Intervals ................ 7-6. 7-27Owner Checks and Services ..................... 7-37Periodic Maintenance Inspections ................ 7-41Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ............. 7-42Scheduled Maintenance Services .................. 7-3.9-5

Short TripKity Definition ................... 7.5, 7.7Short Trip/City Intervals .................... 7.5. 7.7Maintenance. Underbody ......................... 6-53Maintenance When Trailer Towing ................. 4-36Malfunction Indicator Lamp ...................... 2-54Manual Front Seat ............................... 1 - 1Manual Remote Control Mirror .................... 2-37MapLamp .................................... 2-36Methanol ...................................... 6-3Mirrors ....................................... 2-37Convex Outside .............................. 2-38Inside Daymight Rearview ..................... 2-37Manual Remote Control ........................ 2-37Power Remote Control ......................... 2-38Visor Vanity ................................. 2-43MountainRoads ................................ 4-22Multifunction Lever ............................. 2-27Net. Convenience .............................. 2-40Neutral. Automatic Transaxle ..................... 2- 17New Vehicle "Break-In" ......................... 2- 10Nightvision ................................... 4-15Odometer .................................... 2-48Odometer. Trip ................................. 2-48Off-Road Recovery ............................. 4- 1 1Oil. Engine .................................... 6-10Overdrive. Automatic Transaxle ................... 2- 17Overheating Engine ............................. 5 - 13Owner Checks and Services ....................... 7-37Owner Publications. Ordering ...................... 8-9Paint Spotting. Chemical ........................ 6-53ParkAutomatic Transaxle .......................... 2-16Shifting Into ................................. 2-20Shifting Out of ............................... 2-23ParkingAtNight ..................................... 2-9Brake ...................................... 2-19Brake Mechanism Check ....................... 7-40Lots ........................................ 2-9Over Things That Burn ........................ 2-23With a Trailer ................................ 4-36Passing ....................................... 4-11Periodic Maintenance Inspections .................. 7-41DoorLocks ................................... 2-4Option Fuses ................................ 6-56Remote Control Mirror ........................ 2-38Seat ......................................... 1-2Seatback Recliner .............................. 1-2Steering ..................................... 4-8Steering Fluid ................................ 6-26Windows ................................... 2-25Pregnancy. Use of Safety Belts .................... 1-25Problems on the Road ............................ 5-1Publications, Service and Owner .................... 8-9Radiator ..................................... 5-20Radiator Pressure Cap ........................... 6-25Radio Reception ................................. 3-8Radios ........................................ 3-5Rain. Driving In ................................ 4-16Reading Lamps ........................... 2-35. 2.369-6

RearOutside Seat Position .......................... 1-28Seat Passengers .............................. 1-28Storage Compartment ......................... 2-39Towing ..................................... 5-11Window Defogger ............................. 3-3Rearview Mirror ................................ 2-37Inside Daymight ............................. 2-37Reclining Front Seatbacks ......................... 1-2Recovery Tank. Coolant .......................... 5- 16Refrigerants. Air Conditioning .................... 6-64RemoteKeyless Entry ................................. 2-4Trunk Release ................................. 2-7ReplacementBulbs ...................................... 6-60Parts ....................................... 6-64Wheel ...................................... 6-44Reporting Safety Defects .......................... 8-7RestraintsChild ....................................... 1-33Checking ................................... 1-46Head ........................................ 1-4Replacing Parts After a Crash ................... 1-46Systemcheck ................................ 7-38Reverse, Automatic Transaxle .................... 2- 17Right Front Passenger Position .................... 1-26Roadside Assistance .............................. 8-4Roadside Assistance. Canadian ..................... 8-4Rocking YourVehicle ........................... 5-39Rotation, Tires ................................. 6-40Safety Belts ................................... 1-8Adults ...................................... 1-13Automatic Ldp-Shoulder ....................... 1-14Care ....................................... 6-49Center Passenger Position ...................... 1-27Children .................................... 1-31Driver Position ............................... 1-13Extender .................................... 1-46How to Wear Properly ......................... 1-13Incorrect Usage .................... 1 - 17, 1-44, 1-45LapBelt .................................... 1-27Lap-Shoulder ................................ 1-29Larger Children .............................. 1-43Questions and Answers ........................ 1-12Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions ............ 1-28Rear Seat Passengers .......................... 1-28Replacing After a Crash ........................ 1-46Right Front Passenger Position .................. 1-26Smaller Children and Babies .................... 1-31Station Wagon Third Seat Passenger Position ....... 1-27Use During Pregnancy ......................... 1-25Warning Light ........................... 1-8, 2-49WhyTheyWork ............................... 1-9Safety Chains .................................. 4-33Safety Defects, Reporting ......................... 8-7Safety Warnings and Symbols ...................... viiiScheduled Maintenance Services .................... 7-3SeatbackPower Recliner ................................ 1-2Reclining Front ............................... 1-29-7

SeatsFolding Rear .................................. 1-4Folding Second Seat ............................ 1-4Folding Third Seat ............................. 1-5ManualFront ................................. 1-1Power ....................................... 1-2Restraint Systems .............................. I - 1Seat Controls ................................. 1 . 1Securing a Child Restraint ...................... 1-33Second Gear, Automatic Transaxle ................. 2- 18Service ........................................ 6-1Bulletins. Ordering ............................. 8-9EngineSoonLight ............................ 2-54Manuals. Ordering ............................. 8-9Parts Identification Label ....................... 6-55Publications. Ordering .......................... 8-9Work. Doing Your Own ......................... 6- 1Service and Appearance Care ...................... 6- 1Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick ............ 1-25Sheet Metal Damage ............................ 6-52ShiftLever .................................... 2-16ShiftingAutomatic Transaxle .......................... 2- 16IntoPark .................................... 2-20OutofPark .................................. 2-23Shock Absorbers. Superlift ....................... 6-2 1SignalingTurns ................................ 2-27Skidding ...................................... 4-13Sound Equipment. Adding ......................... 3-9Spare Tire. Compact ............................. 5-37Specifications and Capacities ...................... 6-6 1Specifications.Engine ........................... 6-63Speech Impaired. Customer Assistance ............... 8-3Speedometer ................................... 2-48SRS ......................................... 1-21Stains. Cleaning ................................ 6-48Starter Switch Check ............................ 7-39Starting Your Engine ....................... 2- 12. 2- 13Steam ........................................ 5-13Steering ....................................... 4-8Column Lock Check .......................... 7-40In Emergencies ............................... 4-10Power ....................................... 4-8Tips ......................................... 4-9Wheel. Tilt .................................. 2-26Storage Areas .................................. 2-38Storage Compartment. Rear ....................... 2-39Storage. Vehicle ................................ 6-32Stuck: In Sand. Mud. Ice or Snow .................. 5-38Sunvisors .................................... 2-43Supplemental Restraint System .................... 1-21Symbols. Vehicle .................................. xSystem Controls. Climate Control System ............. 3-1Taillamp Bulb Replacement ...................... 6-36TapePlayerCare ................................ 3-9Theft .......................................... 2-9Thermostat .................................... 6-25Third Gear Automatic Transaxle ................... 2-18Tilt Steering Wheel ............................. 2-26Time.Settingthe ................................ 3-4Tire-Loading Information Label ................... 4-289-8

Tires ......................................... 6-38Alignment and Balance ........................ 6-43BuyingNew ................................. 6-41Chains ..................................... 6- 45Changing a Flat .............................. 5-24Cleaning .................................... 6-52Compact Spare ............................... 5-37Inflation .................................... 6-39Inflation Check ............................... 7-37Inspection and Rotation ........................ 6-40Loading .................................... 4-28Pressure .................................... 6-39Temperature ................................. 6-43Traction .................................... 6-43Treadwear ................................... 6-43Uniform Quality Grading ....................... 6-42Wear Indicators .............................. 6-4 1Wheel Replacement ........................... 6-44When It’s Time for New ....................... 6-41TopStrap ..................................... 1-33TorqueLock ................................... 2-22Torque. Wheel Nut .............................. 5-33Torque. Wheel Nut .............................. 6-62Towing a Trailer ................................ 4-30Towing Your Vehicle ............................. 5-7Traction ...................................... 6-43TrailerBrakes ..................................... 4-33Driving on Grades ............................ 4-35Drivingwith ................................. 4-34Hitches ..................................... 4-33Maintenance When Towing ..................... 4-36Parking on Hills .............................. 4-36Safety Chains ................................ 4-33Tongueweight ............................... 4-32Total Weight on Tires .......................... 4-32Towing ..................................... 4-30Turnsignals ................................. 4-35Weight ..................................... 4-31Automatic ................................... 6-17Transmitters, Remote Keyless Entry ................. 2-4Transportation, Courtesy .......................... 8-5Trip Odometer ................................. 2-48TrunkLock ........................................ 2-7Release, Remote ............................... 2-7TTYUsers ..................................... 8-3Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator ............. 2-27Turn Signal On Chime ........................... 2-28Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever ................... 2-27Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer ................ 4-359-9

Underbody Flushing Service ..................... 7-40UnderbodyMaintenance ......................... 6-53VehicleControl ...................................... 4-5Damage Warnings .............................. ixDimensions ................................. 6-63First Sold in Canada ........................... 1 - 13IdentificationNumber ......................... 6-55Loading .................................... 4-28Storage ..................................... 6-32Ventilation System ............................... 3-3Visor Vanity Mirrors ............................ 2-43Visors. Sun .................................... 2-43warning Devices ............................... 5-2Warning Lights. Gages and Indicators ............... 2-48Washer Fluid. Windshield ........................ 6-27Washing Your Vehicle ........................... 6-50Weatherstrips .................................. 6-50WheelAlignment .................................. 6-43Nut Torque ............................. 5.33. 6.62Replacement ................................. 6-44Windows ..................................... 2-25Power ...................................... 2-25Wagon Rear Vent .............................. 2-26Windshield Washer ............................. 2-29Fluid .................................. 2-29. 6.27Fluid Level Check ............................ 7-37Rearwindow ................................ 2-30Windshield Wiper .............................. 2-28Blade Replacement ........................... 6-37Fuses ...................................... 6-56Winter Driving ................................. 4-24Wiring,Headlamp .............................. 6-56WreckerTowing ................................. 5-79-10