1993 Buick Century Owners Manual

The 1993 Buick Century

Owner’s Manual

Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 25603822 B First Edition

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1992 All Rights Reserved

GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem, Buick, and the Buick Emblem are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation.

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFlCAllON THROUGH

Natlonal Insttlute for

AUTOMOTIVE

SERVICE

EXCELLENCE

c .. . - _ _ x

We support voluntary technician certification.

’

This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Buick Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your. Buick, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux proprietaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en francais chez votre concessionaire ou au DGN Marketing Services Ltd., 1500 Bonhill Rd., Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7.

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innovator. Buick engineers developed the “valve-in-head” engine, a light, powerful and reliable engine which- would eventually influence the entire automotive industry. William C. Durant was instrumental in promoting Buicks across the country using his Durant-Dort Carriage Co. outlets and salespeople as the nucleus of a giant distribution system. He knew the Buick as a “self-seller? , If automobiles could be this good, he thought, maybe it was time to switch from the horse and buggy business to automobiles.

At the 1905, New York Auto Show, Durant took orders for 1,OOO Buicks before the company had built 40. On Buick’s success, Durant created a holding company, September 16, 1908. He called it General Motors.

William C. (Billy) Durant

Walter Marr and Thomas Buick Buick’s chief engineer, Walter L. Marr (left), and Thomas D. Buick, son. of founder David Dunbar Buick, drove the first Flint Buick in a successful Flint-Detroit round trip in July 1904. David Buick was building gasoline engines by 1899, and Man, his engineer, apparently built the first auto to be called a Buick in 1900. However, Buick traditionally dates its beginnings to 1903. That was the year the company was reorganized, refinanced and moved from Detroit to Flint. Buick has always been a product

Durant also created a racing team that won 500 racing trophies in 1909 and 1910, including successes at Indianapolis two years before the Indy 500 began. The success of Buick engines was visible not only on the race track, but in endurance tests across the country and around the world. Buick was the only car to complete a 1,000-mile Chicago-to-New York race in 1906. And a Buick was the first car to travel across South 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's endurance and reliability were world hmous. During World War I, Buick built Liberty aircraft engines as well as Red Cross ambulances so successful that one Buick ambulance was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French government. As a builder of premier automobiles, Buick was hard hit by the Great Depression. However, new General Manager Harlow H. Curtice created popular new models including the Special and the Roadmaster. Buick sales soon flourished.

I911 Model 21 Du?ing Car

First Buick Factory

In World War II, Buick built aircraft engines, tanks and other military hardware. This post-war period brought great styling and engineering changes which resulted in increased sales. The torque converter automatic transmission, Dynaflow, was introduced in the 1948 Roadmaster. Buick’s famous “portholes” came along in 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 the post- war era.

I953 Skylark

1949 Roadmaster

Motor Trend magazine named the 1962 Buick Special “Car of the Year:’ The first production V-6 engine was used in the Special.

1962 Buick Special Built inside the walls of the old buildings in Buick’s former Flint complex, which formed the cornerstone of General Motors, Buick City is a state-of-the-art assembly facility with more than 200 robots and other high-tech equipment. It was completed in the fall of 1985. Buicks are, and will continue to be, premium American motorcars with smooth power, high performance, rich detail and comfortable accommodation.

Ed Mertz, General Manager, Buick Motor Division Our mission is simple: “Buick will provide Premium American Motorcars backed 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.

. _.

1923 Buick Sport Roadster

Table of Contents

This part explains how to start and operate your Buick.

This part tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly.

Introduction How to Use this Manual ....................................................... .10 I3

This part tells you how to use your manual and includes safety and vehicle damage warnings and symbols.

Part 1 Seats and Safety Belts .......................................................... Part 2 Features & Controls .......................................................... .63 Part 3 Comfort Controls & Audio Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . W! : ........................ Part 4 Your Driving and the Road. .......................... Part 5 Problems on the Road. ....................................................... Part 6 Service & Appearance Care ....................................................

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

This part tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your sound system.

Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how

to drive under different conditions.

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.l83

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

Part7MaintenanceSchedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Part 8 Customer .Assistance Information ..............................................

This part tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants

to use.

.299

This part tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects on page 302.”

hrt9Index ......................................................~...............307

Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use yellow and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

I A CAUTION:

In the yellow caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. This will help you learn about the htures and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index: A good place to look fbr what you need is the Index in back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it;

14: Each part of this manual begins with a brief list of its contents, so you can often find at a glance if a part contains the information you want. part 7: This part of the manual covers the maintenance required for your vehicle. Part 8 Customer Assistance: This part includes important information about “Reporting Safety Defects.” You will also find customer satisfaction phone numbers (including customer satisfaction numbers for the hearing and speech impaired). ‘We’ve also included ordering information for service publications in this part.

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it in You will also find a red circle with a slash through this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,” “Don’t do

this,” or “Don’t let this happen.” 8 Vehicle Damage Warnings

Also, in this book you will find these blue notices:

In the blue notice area, we tell you about, something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. In this manual, we’ve used the familiar words and colors that Buick has used for years. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same colors, and the words CAUTION or NOTICE.

Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you will find on your vehicle.

These symbols are important for. you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:

DOOR LOCK UNLOCK

FASTEN

BELTS

POWER WINDOW

For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:

POSSIBLE A

CAUTION

INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

,111,

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

WINDSHIELD ' ' '

0 - 0 -

Here are some other symbols you may see:

FUSE

Thes, ,ymbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

F- -- CHARGING I-1

ENGINE COOLANT TEMP

SEAT

TURN SIGNALS

e3

SYSTEM

BATTERY

t0 @e4 i

WIPER & WASHER

WINDSHIELD= WASHER

RADIO k I wlNDsHIELDw e TRUNK WINDOW @

HATCHBACK RELEASE

CONDITIONING AIR

DEFROSTER

VOLUME

REAR

HAZARD WARNING FLASHER

=o FOG LAMPS # 0

OR =, BEAM

HIGH

DEFOGGER

VENTILATING FAN

HEADLAMP - WASHER zQ WIPER -

FUEL

PRESSURE

ENGINE OIL wb TEMP OIL & BRAKE (i)

ANTILOCK

SPEAKER b

Part 1 Seats and Safety Belts

Here you’ll fmd information about the seats in your Buick. your Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (“air bag”) system and how to use your safety belts properly . You can also learn about some things you should not do with safety belts . Part 1 includes:

SeatsandSeatControls ................................................................ 14 Folding Rear Seats (Wagon) ............................................................. 18 SafetyBelts ......................................................................... 23 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 DriverPosition ....................................................................... 30 Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System (Air Bag) .......................................... 35 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 RightFrontPassengerPosition .......................................................... 40 Center Passenger Position and Any Station Wagon Third Seat Passenger Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 RearSeatPassengers .................................................................. 43 Children ............................................................................ 45 SmallerChildrenandBabies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 ChildRestraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 LargerChildren ...................................................................... 58 SafetyBeltExtender .................................................................. 60 Replacing Safety Belts After a Crash ...................................................... 61

Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats-how to adjust them-and also abut folding seats, reclining front seatbacks, and head restraints. Manual Front Seat I /\ CAUTION:

Move the lever under the front seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

if you try to

You can I.ose control of the vehicle adjust a manual driver's seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don't want to. Adjust the driver's seat only when the vehicle moving.

is not

Reclining Front Seatback

1 Front seats have this

control. It’s located on the front of the seat. Reclining b n t Seatback Control: To recline the seatback hold the switch up. Hold the switch down

1 to raise the seatback.

But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

The power seat controls are located on the front of the seat. To adjust the power seat: Front Control (F): Raise the front of the seat by holding the switch up. Hold the switch down to lower the front of the seat. Center Control (C): Move the seat forward or back by holding the control to the right or left. Raise or lower the seat by holding the control up or down. Rear Control (R): Raise the rear of the seat by holding the switch up. Hold the switch down to lower the rear of the seat.

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CAUTION (Cot .,.nued). The shoulder belt can't do its job because It won't be against your body. Instead, It will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other Injuries. The lap belt can't do ib job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvlc bones. This could cause aerious internal injuries. For proper protection when the vehicle is On motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

Slttlng in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can't do their job when you're recllned like this.

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CAUTION (Continued)

Head Restraints

Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

Front Seatback Latches (Two-Door Models) The front seatback folds forward to let people get into the back seat. Your seatback will move .back and forth freely, unless you come to a sudden stop. Then it will lock in place. There’s one time the seatback may not fold without some help from you. That’s if your vehicle is parked facing down a fairly steep hill.

To fold a front seatback forward, push the seatback toward the rear as you lift this latch. Then the seatback will fold forward. The latch must be down for the seat to work properly.

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Folding Second Seat

Folding Rear Sea& (Wagon) To add more cargo room, the seatbacks of your rear second and optional rear-facing third seats can be easily folded down. Be sure to check your seatback latches now and then by pushing the seatback back and forth. If they do not latch properly, have them checked by your dealer. Remember to keep safety belts clear of seat hinges and latches so they are not damaged when you raise and lower the seatbacks.

To Lower the Split Second Seatback: 1. Each seat has its own release button. Press the release

button and pull the seatback forward and down.

2. Push down on the filler panel and the seatback so they

lock into a level position.

To Raise the Split Second Seatback: 1. Push down on the front edge of the seatback and pull

up the filler panel tab.

2. Lift the seatback until it locks in the upright position. Push back and forth on the seatback to be sure it is locked in place.

Folding Third Seat (Option)

Press down on the seat release levers (one on each side

of the seat), and allow the seatback to pop up.

1.

To Raise the Rear-Facing Third Seatback: If your vehicle, is equipped with a roll-up cargo cover, it must be removed before raising the seatback. 1. Open the liftgate and lift the storage compartment lid. 2. Fold it forward against the seatback.

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4. Push the seatback all the way up until it locks in the

upright position. Push back and forth on the seatback to be sure it is locked in place.

To Lower the Rear-Facing Third Seatback: 1. Open the liftgate and lift the seat release lever located at the lower corner of the storage compartment on the passenger side.

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2. Pull the seatback toward the rear of the vehicle, then

push it down into the locked position.

3. Lower the storage compartment lid.

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Safety Belts: They’re For Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint, or “air bag” system.

A CAUTION:

Don’t let anyone ride where they can’t wear a safety belt properly. if you am in a crash and you’re not wearing a sahty belt, your Injuries can be muoh wrse. M u can hlt things Inside the vehlcle or be ejected from it. mu can be ,~ Iserloualy Injured or killed. In the -me crash, you might not be if you am buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check thmt your passengers’ belts are fastened properly bo.

This figure lights up when you turn the key to “Run” or “Start” when your safety belt isn’t buckled, and you’ll hear a chime, too. It’s the reminder to buckle up. In many states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.

You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.

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why safety Belts Work

A few crashes are very mild. In them, you won't get hurt even if you're not buckled up. And some crashes can be so serious, like being hit by a train, 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 sometimes walk away. Without belts they could be badly hurt or killed. After 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes, buckling up does matter. . . a lot!

When you ride in or on anything, you go as fhst as it goes. For example, if the bike is going 10 mph (16 M h ) , so is the child.

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When the bike hits the block, it stops. But the child keeps going!

Take the simplest “car.” Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.

Put someone on it.

Get it up to speed. Then stop the “car.” The rider doesn’t stop.

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.

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield. . .

or the instrument panel. . .

accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

Here. Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts-and the Answers @ Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an A: You could be-whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can easily unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you : can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are @ Why don’t they just put in air bags so people A: ‘Air bags,” or Supplemental Inflatable Restraint

won’t have to wear safety belts?

belted.

systems, are in some vehicles today and will be in more of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only-so they work with safety belts, not instead of them. Every “air bag” system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has “air bags,” you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

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

@ If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an

home, why should I wear safety belts?

accident-even one that isn’t your fault-you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 krn/h). Safety belts are for everyone. Safety Belt Warning Light

When the key is turned to “Run” or “Start:’ a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people. to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is buckled. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 60 seconds or until the driver’s belt is buckled.

A CAUTION:

If your safety belt light ever comes on or stays on after the front doors are closed and the driver’s belt is buckled, have your vehicle fixed. If you don’t, you might not have the protection you’d need in a crash. How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This section is only for people of adult size.

A CAUTION:

There are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for babies and smaller children. will be riding in your Buick, see the section after this one, called “Childrenl’ Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.

If a child

First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.

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Automatic Lap-Shoulder Belt

Cars First Sold in Canada Was your Buick first sold, when new, in Canada? (If it was, a sticker on the driver’s door will say “conforms to all applicable Canada motor vehicle. . . ” etc.) If so, then the rest of part 1 does not apply to your vehicle. To learn how to use your safety belts, please read the Owner’s Manual Safety Belt Supplement. It comes with every new Buick first sold in Canada. Driver Position

This section describes the driver’s restraint system.

This safety belt is called “automatic” because you don’t have to buckle up when you get into your vehicle.

n

And you don't have to unbuckle when you get out. lock the door. Just get into your vehicle. Then close and Adjust the seat (to see how, see "Seats" in the Index) so you can sit up straight.

The lap belt should be worn as low on the hips as possible. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash.

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It's possible that an automatic belt could keep you from fully opening a door. That can happen if the door was slammed shut very hard. Just close the door all the way, then slowly open it. If that doesn't fix it, then your Buick needs service. We hope you'll always keep your automatic belt buckled. However, you may need to unbuckle it in an emergency. And you would need to unbuckle it to let someone get into the center front seat position, one.

if your vehicle has

To unbuckle the automatic belt, just push the button on the buckle.

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n n

To reattach the automatic belt: 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

so you can sit up straight.

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

@ What’s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way.

You can be seriously hurt too loose. In a crash you would move forward too much, which could significantly increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

if your shoulder belt is

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@ What’s wrong with this? A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

I A CAUTION’:

ybu can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place Ilk this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

@ What’s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

L 1 A CAUTION:

Mu can be serlously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increage the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, whlch aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. mu could also severely injure internal organs like your llver or spleen.

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Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System (Air Bag) (option) This section explains the driver’s Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system, commonly referred to as an air bag. Here are the most important things to know:

I /i\ CAUTION:

Even with an air bag, if you’re not wearing a safety belt and you’re in a crash, your injuries may be much worse. Air bags’are not designed to inflate in rollovers or in rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. Ybu need to wear your safety belt to reduce the chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag.

@ What’s wrong with this? A: The belt is twisted across the body.

Mu can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to take impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

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I A CAUTION:

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure ,you. Safety belts help keep you in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag, and sit as far back as you can while still maintaining control of your vehicle.

Air Bag System Light

In ! .CAUTION:

If the air bag readiness light doesn’t come on when you start your vehicle, or stays on, or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away.

How the Air Bag System Works

There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows “AIRBAG.” The system checks itself and the light tells you if there is a problem. You will see this light flash for a few seconds when you turn your ignition to “Run” or “Start.” Then the light should go out, which means the system is ready.

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wheel.

Q: Where is the air bag? A: The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering Q: When is an air bag expected to inflate? A: The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will only inflate if the velocity of the impact is above the designed threshold level. When impacting straight into a wall that does not move or deform, the threshold level for most GM vehicles is between 9 and 14 mph (14 and 23 km/h). However, this velocity threshold depends on the vehicle design and may be several miles-per-hour faster or slower. In addition, this threshold velocity will be considerably higher if the vehicle strikes an object such as a parked car which will move and deform on impact. The air bag is also not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts where the inflation would provide no occupant protection benefit.

In any particular crash, the determination of whether the air bag should have inflated cannot be based solely on the level of damage on the vehicle(s). Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration, of which vehicle damage is only one indication. Repair cost is not a good indicator of whether an air bag should have deployed.

Q: What makes an air bag inflate? A: In a frontal impact of sufficient severity, sensors strategically located on the vehicle detect that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. These sensors complete an electrical circuit, triggering a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates the cloth bag. The inflator, cloth bag, and related hardware are all part of the air bag inflator module packed inside the steering wheel.

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How does an air bag restrain?

A: In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not provide protection in many types of collisions, including rollovers and rear and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belt protection in moderate to severe frontal and near-frontal collisions.

Qt What will you see after an air bag inflation? A: After the air bag has inflated, it will then quickly deflate. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize that the air bag inflated. The air bag will not impede the driver’s vision or ability to steer the vehicle, nor will it hinder the occupants from exiting the vehicle. There will be small amounts of smoke coming from vents in the deflated air bag. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub may be hot for a short time, but the portion of the bag that comes into contact with you will not be hot to the touch. The nitrogen gas used to inflate the air bag will have vented into the passenger compartment, and the bag will be deflated within seconds after the collision. Nitrogen makes up about 80% of the air we breathe and is not hazardous. As the nitrogen vents from the bag, small particles are also vented into the passenger compartment.

A CAUTION:

Don’t attach anything to the steering wheel pad. It might injure the driver if the air bag inflates. The air bag is designed to inflate only once. After it inflates, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include the air bag module and possibly other parts. The service manual has information about the need to replace other parts. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

Servicing Your Buick with the Air Bag System Please tell or remind anyone who works on your Buick that it has the air bag system. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. The air bag system does not

need regular maintenance. Your Buick dealer and the 1993 Century Service Manual have information about the air bag system, including repair or disposal.

A CAUTION:

For up to 2 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. Yonn can be injured if you are close to an air bag whc.. it inflates. Be sure to follow the proper service procedures.

When electrical work is done under the hood or inside your vehicle, the ignition should be in “Lock” if possible. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape, or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. But if the ignition has to be on for electrical work, or if the steering column is to be disassembled, the air bag system must be disconnected. To do this:

Turn off the ignition. Remove the SIR (air bag) fuse (see “Fuses & Circuit Breakers” in the Index). Disconnect the yellow connector at the base of the steering column.

3V

When the work is complete, if the air bag system was disconnected, be sure to reattach everything and replace the fuse before turning the ignition on. When you turn the ignition key on, be sure you see the inflatable restraint light on the instrument panel. If you don’t see this light flash and then go out as usual, have your system repaired. Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

air bag

low as possible

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as throughout the pregnancy. The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position

f l

The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position:’ earlier in this part.

40

Center Passenger Position and Any Station Wagon Third Seat Passenger Position

Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index) so’ you can sit up straight. Move your seat far enough forward that your feet touch the part of the vehicle that is called the “toeboard” (A). That way you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt in a crash.

If your vehicle has front and rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions.

41

. -

When you sit in a center seating position, or in a station wagon third seat, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle faces upward or outward so you would be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever had to.

42

Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly: 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull it 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 latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it.

If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle faces upward or outward so you would be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever had to.

43

3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle

end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash.

A CAUTION:

Y&u can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt Is too loose. In a crash you would move forward too much, which could Increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

Children

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state and Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.

45

Smaller Children and Babies

/i\ CAUTION:

Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young chlld’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained in a child or Infant restraint.

A CAUTION: - Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t welgh much-until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-pound (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-pound force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold.

(110 kg)

-l c CAUTION (Continued) I

46

CAUTION (Continued) Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

Child Restraints Be sure to follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in the rear seat unless the child is an i n h t and you’re the only adult in the vehicle. In that case, you might want to secure the restraint in the front seat where you can keep an eye on the baby. Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly.

/r\ CAUTION:

An unsecured chlld restraint can mov8 around in I collision or sudden stop and injure people In the vehicle. Be sure to properly 88cure any chlld restraint In p u r vehicle-ew-n when no chlld is in it.

47

Top Strap

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Position

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Buick dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it. If you want to use a child restraint with a top strap in the second seat of a station wagon, have your dealer install a combination anchor-tether belt to which the top strap can be hooked.

48 .

You’ll need a safety locking clip to properly secure a child restraint in this position. You can get a locking clip where child restraints are sold, or from your Buick dealer (GM Part Number 94844571). The locking clip must be the same as the one shown here.

Until you have this clip, secure a child restraint only in a seat that has a separate lap belt (and a way to anchor a top strap, if the child restraint has one). See the following section about securing a child restraint in a center position. Once you have the clip, follow these instructions: 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions,

for the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

3. Pull out the vehicle’s safety belt and run the lap part

through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. See if the shoulder belt would go in front of the child’s face or neck. If so, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button faces upward or outward, so you’ll be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever need to.

I A CAUTION:

If a locking clip is not used or is not installed properly, the chlld restraint may move or tip Over when your vehicle turns or stops quickly. The child or others could be injured. When you secure a child restraint with a lap- shoulder belt, always thread both the lap and shoulder belt portions through a locking clip.

5. Then thread both the lap and shoulder belt portions

through the locking clip.'

50

/i\ CAUTION:

When not used with a chlld restraint seat, a safety belt with a child restraint locking clip still attached can cause serious injury in a crash. Always remove the clip when you are not using it with a child restraint.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position

When you secure a child restraint in a center seating position, you’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

51

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions

to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and remove the locking clip. Let the safety belt go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

. ..

1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch

plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

4. Run the vehicle's safety belt through or around the

restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button faces upward or outward, so you'll be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever need to.

6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push

down on the child restraint.

52

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be .sure it is secure. If the child restraint isn’t secure, turn the latch plate over and buckle it again. Then see if it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right

F’ront Seat P

\ ...

Your dealer can get these and install the hardware for you. It’s free. The special belt is GM Part Number 12340286. Your dealer can find the correct hardware in the accessory section of the GM Parts Catalog.

To use a child restraint here, you will need a special infantkhild seat attaching belt and the hardware that goes with it. See the earlier section about the top strap child restraint has one.

if the

53

Don't use the special infantkhild seat attaching hardware in another vehicle. If you do, it may not work well and the child may not be protected properly in a crash. The special hardware is for your vehicle only. Also, don't use the special belt for anything but securing a child restraint in the right front seat. If an adult or older child uses it, the belt won't provide protection and may even increase injury in a crash.

54

Once the special hardware is installed, please follow the instructions with it and these steps: 1. Unbuckle the automatic lap-shoulder belt by pushing

the button on the buckle. It will stay on the door, ready to be rebuckled for use by adults or older children.

2. Snap one hook of the infidchild seat attaching belt

near the floor at the door side of the seat.

3. Put the belt's special latch plate into the vehicle's safety

belt buckle.

8. Put the hook on the free end through the slot in the

latch plate.

4. You can make the belt longer by tilting the buckle and

pulling it along the belt.

5. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

6. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

7. Run the belt through or around the child restraint. The

child restraint instructions will show you how.

56

9. To make it tight, pull the belt while you push down

on the child restraint. If the belt won’t stay tight, switch it end for end.

10. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions

to be sure it is secure.

To remove the infantkhild seat restraint: 1. Push the button on the safety belt buckle and remove

the special latch plate. Leave the latch plate on the special belt.

2. Push the spring on the hook near the door and remove

the special belt.

3. Put the belt away in a safe place in your vehicle, so it

won’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 it isn’t twisted.

57

Larger Children

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap- shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the s&ty belts properly.

Children who iuen’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash.

Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.

1 CAUTION:

l!=r do this.

LJ

@ What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck? A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child‘s shoulder, so that in a crash the child‘s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is so smaU that the shoulder belt still is very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in the center seat position, the one that has only a lap belt.

Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.

A CAUTION:

Never do t h k

I Here er ehlld its sitting in’a seat that has a lap-shouider belt, but the shoulder part Is behind the child. If thechild wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s Qom would then be applied rlght on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.

60

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on-the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash. Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. The automatic lap-shoulder belt has plenty of extra length built in, so it will fasten around almost all people. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, anchorages and reminder systems are working properly. Look for any loose parts or damage. If you see anything that might keep a restraint system from doing its job, have it repaired.

Replacing Safety Belts After a Crash If 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 worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will have to have safety belt parts, like the retractor, replaced or anchorage locations repaired-even if the belt wasn't being used at the time of the collision.

@ What's wrong with this? A: The belt is torn.

A CAUTION:

Torn or frayed belts may not protect you crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right

in a

61

62

n

part 2 Features and Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Buick. and information on starting. shifting and braking . Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly-and what to do if you have a problem . Part 2 includes:

Keys ................................................................................ Locks .............................................................................. 65 Remote Keyless Entry System ........................................................... 66 New Vehicle Break-In ................................................................. 72 Ignition ............................................................................. 73 Starting Your Engine .................................................................. 74 : ..................... Shifting the Transaxle ........................................... 77 parking Brake ........................................................................ 80 ShiftingIntoPark ..................................................................... 81 Windows ........................................................................... 84 Horn ............................................................................... 86 TiltSteeringWheel ................................................................... 86 Turn Signal/Headlight Beam Lever ....................................................... 86 Windshield Wipers, Washer ........................................................... 88 CruiseControl ..................................................................... 91 InteriorLights ....................................................................... 95 Headlights .......................................................................... 95 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Instrument Panel ..................................................................... 105 106

Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators ..................................................

63

I--

Keys

/i\ CAUTION:

Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other . controls, or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.

64

The door keys are for ‘the doors and all other locks.

When a new Century is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the keys, and gives them to the first owner. Each plug has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the plugs in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using these plugs.

Door Locks 3

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle: From the outside: Use your door key or Remote Keyless Entry transmitter, if your vehicle has this option.

From the inside: To lock the door, slide the lock Pqntrol on the door "award. To unlock the door, slide the lock control forward.

' Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers-especially children-can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won't open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You Increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren't locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.

Power Door Locks

Remote Keyless Entry System (Option)

Press the power door lock switch on either front door to lock or unlock all the doors at once.

Automatic Door Locks Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. All of the doors will lock when you move your shift lever out of “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral). Each time you close your doors and turn on the ignition, the doors will lock automatically only once. If someone needs to get out while the vehicle is running, have that person use the manual or power lock. When the door is closed again, it will not lock automatically. Just use the manual or power lock to lock the door again. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. 66

If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk or wagon liftgate from up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on’a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (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 is necessary. the instructions on battery replacement later in Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. This product has a maximum range. Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. See your Buick dealer or a qualified technician for service.

See this section.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. Operation The driver’s door will unlock and the interior lights will go on when “UNLOCK’ is pressed. If pressed again within five seconds, all doors will unlock. The interior lights will go out after 40 seconds or when you turn on the ignition. All doors will lock when “DOOR” is pressed. The trunk or liftgate will unlock when the opened trunk symbol is pressed, but only when the transaxle is in “P” (Park). On the wagon the ignition must also be in the “Off” position.

Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring the remaining transmitter with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, the remaining transmitter must also be matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. You can match a transmitter to as many different vehicles as you own, provided they are equipped with exactly the same model system. (General Motors offers several different models of these systems on their vehicles.) Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched to it. See your dealer to match transmitters to another vehicle. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the batteries in your key chain transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the batteries are weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the batteries.

For battery replacement use two DuracelP batteries, type DL-2016, or a similar type.

To replace batteries: 1. Remove the screw from the back cover. 2. Lift off the front cover, bottom half fEstst, 3. Remove and replace the batteries.. Put them in

following the diagram under the batteries on the inside of the cover.

4. Replace the front cover. Make sure the cover is on

tightly, so water won't get in. Replace the screw in the back cover.

5. Check the transmitter operation.

68

Wunk/Liftgate Remote Electric Trunk Or Liftgate Release

(Option) 1 If you have this option,

you'll find the button here in the glove box.

Wagon Liftgate Operation The liftgate on your station wagon has two parts: a liftglass and a liftgate.

NOTICE: Be sure there are no overhead obstructions before you open the liftgate. You could slam the liftg glass.

and

ing

To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the door key and turn it clockwise.

Trunk Lock

The door key opens the liftgate and the liftglass.

69

F

Turn the key to the right to unlatch the liftgate, then pull up on the bottom of the liftgate. To close, pull down on the handle inside the liftgate, then firmly shut the liftgate.

Turn the key to the left to release the liftglass. Then, pull the liftglass up by the handle. To close, lower the liftglass until thg .

latch catches.

70

/r\ CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to drive with the liftgate or liftglass open. Carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the liftgate or liftglass open:

Make sure all other windows are shut. Turn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on NORM or VENT. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls’’ in .the Index. If you have air vents on or under the instrument panel, ope1 hem all the way.

Glove Box

Use the door key to lock and unlock the glove box. To open, pinch the latch release.

Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your Buick has a number of theft deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the ignition: If you walk away from your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves-so don’t do it. When you park your Buick and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors.

New Vehicle “Break-In”

Parking at Night: Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking Lots: If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? 1. Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk or

glove box, or rear storage area in the’ wagon.

2. Lock the glove box. 3. Lock all the doors except the driver’s. 4. Then take the door key with you.

72

Ignition Key Positions

with the ignition key h the ignition switch, YOU can turn the “Accessory” “Run” and switch to

five positions: allow

that are “on” positions .Accessory: An “on” position your electrical power accessories. Press switch as you turn the top of it toward you. Lock: The only position in which you can remove the key. This locks your steering wheel, ignition and transaxle.

in which you can operate in the ignition

‘

Off: Unlocks the

and steering wheel,

ignition, transaxle, but does not send electrical power to any accessories. .Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed, but never try to push-start your vehicle. A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is off and the key is in the ignition. Run: An “on” position to which the. switch returns after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the “Run” position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use “Run” to operate your electrical power accessories, and to display some instrument panel warning lights. Start: Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to “Run” for normal driving. Note that even if the engine is not running, the positions

you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio.

I

I.

If your key &ems suwn in ‘‘Lu~n IU Y ~ U can’t turn it, be sure it is all the way in. If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. But turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.

Starting Your Engine Engines start differently. The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) shows the code letter or number for your engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of your instrument panel. (See “Vehicle Identification Number” in the Index.) Follow the proper steps to start the engine. Move your shift lever to “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral). Your engine won’t start in any other position-that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use “N” (Neutral) only.

74

To start your 2.2L L4 (Code 4) engine: 1. Don’t push the accelerator pedal before starting your engine. In some other vehicles you might need to do this, but because of your vehicle’s computer systems, you don’t.

2. Turn your ignition key to “Start:’ When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

3. If it doesn’t start right away, push the accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down while you turn the key to “Start;’ Do this until the engine starts. As soon as it does, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

4. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in “Start” for about three seconds. If the car starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from

the engine.

To start your 3300 V6 (Code N) engine: 1. Don’t push the accelerator pedal before starting your

engine. In some other vehicles you might need to do this, but because of yourwehicle’s computer systems, you don’t.

2. Turn your ignition key to “Start? When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

3. If it doesn’t start right away, push the accelerator pedal

about one-quarter of the way down while you turn the key to “Start;’ Do this until the engine starts. As soon as it does, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

seconds-at a time will cause your battery to b drained much sooner. And the excessive hea can damage your starter motor,

4. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in “Start” for about 15 seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. Turn the ignition key to “Off’ Wait 10 seconds, then repeat Step 3.

75

lada only)

Engine Block Heatel In very cold weather, 0°F ( - H O C ) or colder, the engine block heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. To use the block heater: 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded UC olt outlet.

Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three- prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

Driving T -ough Deep Standing Water

orktanding water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your en ine. or stan slowly.

If ou can’t avoid dee uddles

NOTICE: After you’ve

P (Park)

This locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. the block heater plugged in? The

a CAUTION:

How long should you keep answer depends on the weather, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact a Buick dealer, in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area. Automatic .Transaxle

There are several different positions for your shift lever.

if the

It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle shift lever is not fully in “P” (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to “P” (Park). See “Shifting Into ‘P’ (Park)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill, or, if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Parking on Hills” or “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. R (Reverse) Use this gear to back up.

‘,,moving forward could damage your transaxle, to “R” only after your vehicle is stopped

f ,

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow’’ in the Index.

N (Neutral)

In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use “N” (Neutral) only. Also, use “N” when your vehicle is being towed.

I A CAUTION:

Shifting out,of “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral) while your engine is racing.

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@ (Automatic Overdrive)

If your automatic transaxle has automatic overdrive, this position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: - Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your

accelerator pedal about halfway down.

- Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the

accelerator all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. D (Third Gear)

If your automatic transaxle does not have Overdrive, this position is for normal driving, at all speeds, in most street and highway situations.

“a,” but you never go into Overdrive. Here are some

If your automatic transaxle has Overdrive, “D” is like times you might choose “D” instead of “@”: - When driving on hilly, winding roads - When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between

gears

1 (First Gear)

This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than 2. You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in “1 i’ the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

b b

9 9

- When going down a steep hill

2 (Second Gear)

This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use “2” on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

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Parking Brake The parking brake uses the brakes on the rear wheels.

I To set the parking brake:

Hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system I warning light will come on.

NOTICE: )use Driving with thiparl your rear brakesto oveFheat. ybu may have - replace them, and you could alse damage other parts of your vehicle.

‘g brake or