1994 Buick Century Owners Manual

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Century

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The 1994 Buick Century

Owner's Manual

Litho in USA Part No. 25609658 B First Edition

'Copyright General Motors Corporation 1993 All Rights Reserved

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GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem, Buick, and the Buick Emblem are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. 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.

We support voluntary technician certification.

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

Narlonal Instatute for

AUTOMOTIVE

SERVICE

EXCELLENCE

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 lC7.

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Buick Motor Division provides one of the most dramatic and important chapters in the history of the American automobile

“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 1,000 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 Marr, 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 innovator. Buick engineers developed the

Durant also created a racing team that won 500 racing trophies in 1909 and 19 10, 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 19 14.

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 famous. 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.

1911 Model 21 Touring Car on Buick’s Test Hill

First Buick Factory

In World War 11, 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 Motor Trend magazine named the 1962 Buick Special, “Car of the Year”. The first production V-6 engine was used in the Special.

I949 Roadmaster

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I962 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, Gener-ul Manager, Buic-k 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.

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@ Table of Contents

This part explains how to start and operate your Buick.

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

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

How to Use this Manual ................................................................ This part tells you how to use your manual and includes safety and vehicle damage warnings and symbols. Seats and Restraint Systems ............................................................. This part tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system. FeaturesandControls .................................................................. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems ..................................................... YourDrivingandtheRoad .............................................................. ProblemsontheRoad .................................................................. ServiceandAppearanceCare ............................................................ Maintenanceschedule .................................................................. Customer Assistance Information ........................................................ 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 283. Index ................................................................................ Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

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

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

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

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121

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You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. fl This safetv svmbol means

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“Don’t,” “Don’t do this,” or “Don’t let this happen.”

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 features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box with gray background and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

In the gray 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.

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Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices:

NOTICE:

In the 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. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use yellow for cautions, blue for notices and the words CAUTION or NOTICE.

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

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

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

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

SIGNALS e

TURN

SEAT

FASTEN

BELTS

POWER WINDOW

WINDOW DEFOGGER

OR = =o $0

BEAM

VENTILATING FAN

,\I/,

AIRBAG P\

HIGH

FOG LAMPS

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC

BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Here are some other symbols you may see:

WIPER

FUSE

ENGINE

BAllERY CHARGING SYSTEM

COOLANT F& TEMP -.-- I-1 e,

RADIO k VOLUME J RELEASE 6

RADIATOR COOLANT

TRUNK

FUEL

WINDSHIELDw

CONDITIONING A'R

DEFROSTER

LIGHTER

ENGINE OIL PRESSURE

TEMP OIL 4% ANTILOCK (@)

BRAKE

n Part 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Buick. 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:

Automatic Lap-Shoulder Belt

Seatsandseatcontrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HeadRestraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Folding Rear Seats (Wagon) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SafetyBelts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . How to Wear Safety Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14 17 18 22 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Supplemental Restraint System (Air Bag) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Smaller Children and Babies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 50 Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LargerChildren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 SafetyBeltExtender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Checking Your Restraint System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Replacing Safety Belts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . .

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Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats-how to them, and also about folding seats, reclining front seatbacks, and head restraints. Manual Seat

adjust

Move the lever under the front seat to the left to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it then release the lever to lock. Try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

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Power Seat (Option)

Reclining Front Seatback

The switch is located on the front of the seat. To recline the seatback hold the switch up. Hold the switch down to raise the seatback.

of the

The power seat controls are located on the front 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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But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

Head Restraints

Folding Rear Seats (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.

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.

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Folding Second Seat

To Lower the Split Second Seatback: Each seat has its own release button. Press the release button 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 is locked in place.

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Folding Third Seat (Option)

3. Press down on the seat release levers (one on each side of the seat), and allow the seatback to pop up.

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 Restraint System, or “air bag” system.

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This figure lights up as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Warning Light” in the Index.) 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.

A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious 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 have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

For example, if the bike is going 10 mph (16 km/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 vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels.

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Put someone on it.

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. 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 ...

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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.

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers @ Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an

accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

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 belted.

Q: Why don’t they just put in air bags so people

won’t have to wear safety belts?

A: Air bags, or Supplemental Restraint 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.

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home, why should I wear safety belts?

&: If I’m a good driver, ana 1 never drive far from A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an 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 km/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 already buckled.

The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for 20 seconds, then it will flash for an additional 55 seconds. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on.

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How To Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This section is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your Buick, see the section after this one, called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.

Vehicles 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.

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Automatic Lap-Shoulder Belt

This safety belt is called “automatic” because you don’t have 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) so you can sit up straight.

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The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. 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, if your vehicle has one.

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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.

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

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. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

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.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

I A CAUTION:

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

‘ A

A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way.

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@' What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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What’s wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

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&." What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This section explains the driver’s Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), commonly referred to as an alr bag. Here are the most important things to know:

A 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 rotlovers or in rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. You 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.

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 infiation 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.

A CAUTION:

When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

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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.

AIR BAG

Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows “AIRBAG.” The system checks for electrical malfunctions, and the light tells you if there is a problem.

Remember, 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.

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How The Air Bag System Works

Where is the air bag? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

When is an air bag expected to inflate? 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 15 mph (1 4 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.

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What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers 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. 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 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.

What will you see after an air bag inflation? 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. 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. There will be small amounts of smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bag. The air bag will not impede the driver’s vision or ability to steer the vehi,cle, nor will it hinder the occupants from exiting the vehicle.

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.

0 Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and whether the driver’s safety belt was in use.

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0 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.

NOTICE: If you damage the cover for the driver’s air bag, it may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag on the steering wheel. Do not open or break the air bag cover.

Servicing Your Air Bag Equipped Buick The air bag affects how your Buick should be serviced. 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 1994 Century Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

Is the smoke from an air bag inflation harmful? The particles emitted during air bag inflation are not harmful to most people. Some people with respiratory ailments may experience difficulty breathing if they stay in the vehicle with the windows closed after air bag inflation. So, if your air bag inflates, you and any passengers should exit the vehicle if and when it is safe to do so. If you or your passengers can’t get out of the vehicle, try to get fresh air by opening a window, turning on the fan, or opening a door.

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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. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible 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

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

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0 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 car that is called the “toeboard” (A). That way you’d be less

likely to slide under the lap belt in a crash. -

Center Passenger Position And Any Station Wagon Third Seat Passenger Position

Lap Belt

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 is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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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

Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here's how to wear one properly.

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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 latch plate 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 Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

so you

3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

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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.

47

Children

0 To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the

buckle.

4s

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

Smaller Children and Babies

49

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 infant 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. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

50

Top Strap

combination anchor-tether belt to which the top strap can be hooked. For-cars first sold iri Canada, child restraints with a top strap must be anchored according to Canadian Law. Your dealer can obtain the hardware kit and install it for you, or you may install it yourself using the instructions provided in the kit. Use the tether hardware kit available from the dealer. The hardware and installation instructions were specifically designed for this vehicle. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Position

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

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

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.

will show you how. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions

5. Then thread both the lap and shoulder belt portions

through the locking clip.

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.

plate and pulling it along the belt. -

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

x , . ...

'1

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.

L A

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.

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 about how to attach the child restraint properly.

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 Front Seat

5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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

down on the child restraint.

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

55

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.

56

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.

2. Snap one hook of the infant/child seat attaching belt

near the floor at the door side of the seat.

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

57

3. Put the belt’s special latch plate into the vehicle’s

safety belt buckle.

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.

58

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

latch plate.

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.

59

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.

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Larger Children

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

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 safety belts properly.

0 Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

61

A

P --

&: 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 small that the shoulder belt is still 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.

62

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.

63

@ What’s wrong with this?

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 need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision.

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

64

?art 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 DoorLocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 New Vehicle Break-In 76 StartingtheEngine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ShiftingtheTransaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TiltSteeringWheel 88 Turn Signal/Headlight Beam Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Headlight High-Low Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Windshield Wipermasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 CruiseControl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 102 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Instrumentpanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Speedometer and Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Warning Lights . Gages and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

65

Keys

66

The ignition keys are for the ignition only.

F% .,.,. r{.; &L.. ' -

I ,, ,

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 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.

a code on it that tells your

1 NOTICE:

Your Buick has a number of new features that of can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have extra keys.

Door Locks

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 control on the door rearward. To unlock the door, slide the lock control forward.

67

Power Door Locks

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

Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. Remote Keyless Entry System (Option)

Automatic Door Locks Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. All of the doors will automatically lock when you move your shift lever out of “ P ’ (Park) or (“N”Neutra1). 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 lock automatically. All doors will automatically unlock when you turn the ignition off. If you don’t want the doors to automatically unlock when the key is turned OFF, you can remove the UNLOCK fuse located in the glove box. See “Fuses” in the Index for more information. 68

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.

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. See the instructions on battery replacement. 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.

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. Press the opened trunk symbol to unlock the trunk or wagon liftgate. The transaxle must be in “P” (Park.) If you have the wagon, the ignition must also be “Off.” 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 any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, the remaining transmitters 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

69

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 re lacernent use two Duracell batteries, type DL-20 16, or a similar type.

To replace batteries:

1.

2. 3.

4.

5.

Carefully pry off the cover by inserting a dime (or similar object) in a slot between the covers and twist. Lift off the front cover, bottom half first. Remove and replace the batteries. Put them in following the diagram under the batteries on the inside of the cover. Replace the front cover. Make sure the cover is on tightly, so water won’t get in and snap the cover together. Check the transmitter operation.

70

Trunk/Liftgate Remote Trunk or Liftgate Release (Option)

If you have this option, you’ll find the button in the glove box. The trunk will unlock any time the ignition is ON. If you have the wagon, the liftgate will unlock when the ignition is ON and the transaxle is in “ P ’ (Park).

’

Trunk Lock

r NOTICE:

Wagon Liftgate Operation The liftgate on your wagon has a liftglass and a liftgate.

Be sure there are no overhead obstructions before you open the liftgate. You could slam the liftgate into something and break the glass.

The door key opens the liftgate and the liftglass.

71

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 the latch catches.

72

Glove Box

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

73

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. 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.

74

But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? 0 Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk

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

0 Lock the glove box. 0 Lock all the doors except the driver’s. 0 Then take the door key with you. New Vehicle “Break-In”

I NOTICE: Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t

Your modern Buick doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines:

make full-throttle starts.

0 Avoid making hard stops for the first 200

miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this “breaking-in” guideline every time you get new brake linings.

Ignition Key Positions

C 9.5

With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five positions: (A) Accessory: An “on” position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. Press in the ignition switch as you turn the top of it toward you.

(B) Lock: The only position in which you can remove the key. This locks your steering wheel, ignition and transaxle. (C) Off: Unlocks the steering wheel, ignition, and 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. (D) 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. (E) Start: Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to “Run” for normal driving.

To start your engine: 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, 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.

NOTICE: Holding your key in “Start” for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor.

NOTICE: If your key seems stuck in “Lock” and you 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 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.

NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to “P” (Park) if your Buick is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to “P” (Park) only when your vehicle is stopped.

76

2. If your engine 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.

I NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the fuel injection system operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Buick” in the Index.

Driving Through Deep Standing Water

I NOTICE:

If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your engine. If you can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly.

77

Engine Coolant Heater (Engine Block Heater) (Canada Only) In very cold weather, 0°F (-18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. To 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 outlet.

I NOTICE:

After you’ve used the coolant heater, be sure to store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The 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.

78

Automatic Transaxle

There are several different positions for your shift lever. 0 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.

79

R (Reverse) Use this gear to back up.

I I NOTICE:

Shifting to “R” (Reverse) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to “R” only after your vehicle is stopped.

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.

80

I NOTICE:

Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out of “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty.

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.

I NOTICE:

Don’t drive in “2” (Second Gear) for more than 5 miles (8 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use “D” (‘@’’ or “D” if your vehicle has Overdrive) as much as possible. Don’t shift into “2” unless you are going slower than 65 mph (1 05 km/h), or you can damage your engine.

@ 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 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. If your automatic transaxle has Overdrive, “D” is like @, but you never go into Overdrive. Here are some times you might choose “D” instead of 0 3 : - When driving on hilly, winding roads - When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting

between gears

- When going down a steep hill

81

c

0 1 (First Gear)

Parking Brake

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,” the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE: If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transaxle. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transaxle. Use your brakes to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

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 warning light will come on.

To release the parking brake: Hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the brake release lever.

Steering Column Shift Lever

I NOTICE:

Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.

If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill: See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving. Shifting Into ‘‘P” (Park) A CAUTION:

1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

2. Move the shift lever into “P” (Park) position like

this: 0 Pull the lever toward you.

83

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

0 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 can

walk away from your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in “P’, (Park).

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in “P’, (Park) and your ‘parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into the “P,’ (Park) position, hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from “P” (Park) without first pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into “P” (Park).

Parking Over Things That Burn

Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into “P’ (Park) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of “P’ (Park). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into “P” (Park) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into ‘P’ (Park)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of “P’ (Park) BEFORE you release the parking brake. If “torque lock” does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the transaxle, so you can pull the shift lever out of “P” (Park).

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Engine Exhaust

Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

I A CAUTION:

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Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into ‘P’ (Park)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Windows On a vehicle with manual windows, use the window crank to open and close each window. Power Windows (Option)

With power windows, switches on the driver’s armrest control each of the windows when the ignition is on. In addition, each passenger door has a control switch for its own window.

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Wagon Rear Vent Windows (Option)

Tilt Wheel

A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive.

You can also raise it to the highest level to give y6ur legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

To open, pull the latch forward, then push on the center of the latch to swing the window out into the open position. To close the window, pull the center of the latch and then press the latch into the closed position. Horn You can sound the horn by pressing the horn symbol on your steering wheel.

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Turn SignallHeadlight Beam Lever

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator

.1

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your:

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator

0 Headlight High-Low Beam & Passing Signal a Windshield Wipers 0 Windshield Washer

Cruise Control (Option)

The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.

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Operation of Lights Although your vehicle’s lighting system (headlights, parking lights, fog lamps, side marker lights and taillights) meets all applicable federal lighting requirements, certain states and provinces may apply their own lighting regulations that may require special attention before you operate these lights. For example, some jurisdictions may require that you operate your fog lamps only when your lower beam headlights are also on, or that headlights be turned on whenever you must use your windshield wipers. In addition, most jurisdictions prohibit driving solely with parking lights, especially at dawn or dusk. It is recommended that you check with your own state or provincial highway authority for applicable lighting regulations.

I A green arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change. To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the green arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.

As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don’t flash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the green arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check the fuse (see “Fuses” in the Index) and for burned-out bulbs. n r n Signal Reminder If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile, a chime will sound. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the off position.

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Headlight High-Low Beam

Windshield Wipers

To change the headlights from low beam to high or high to low, pull the turn signal lever all the way toward you. Then release it. When the high beams are on, this blue light on the instrument panel also will be on.

BRIGHT

You control the windshield wipers by turning the band marked “WIPER.” For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to “MIST.” Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the band on “MIST” longer.

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You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to “LO,” the shorter the delay. For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the “LO” position. For high speed wiping, turn the band further, to “HI.” To stop the wipers, move the band to “OFF.” Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload.

Windshield Washer At the top of the turn signalheadlight beam lever there’s a paddle with the word “PUSH” on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. If you push the paddle less than one second, washer fluid will spray three to four times while the wiper blades cycle. If you push the paddle longer than one second, washer fluid will spray as long as the paddle is held. When you release the paddle, the wiper blades will cycle three to four more times to clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed. Driving without washer fluid can be dangerous. A bad mud splash can block your vision. You could hit another vehicle or go off the road. Check your washer fluid level often.

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NOTICE:

Wagon Rear Window Washedwiper (Option)

When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.

a Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer

fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid.

0 Fill your washer fluid tank only 3/4 full

when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. Don’t use radiator antifreeze in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.

The rear window washer/wiper switch is at the center of the instrument panel. Press the top of the switch labeled “WASH” and the rear wiper will run at a constant speed.

Press the switch further and hold to spray washer fluid while the wiper continues to run. The wiper will continue to run until you press the switch to “OFF.” The rear window washer fluid reservoir is the smaller reservoir next to the coolant reservoir.

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Cruise Control (Option)

With Cruise Control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise Control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes, the Cruise Control shuts off.

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To Set Cruise Control

2. Get up to the speed you want.

1. Move the Cruise

Control switch to “ON.”

3. Push in the “SET”

button at the end of the lever and release it.

4.

5.

The CRUISE light on the instrument panel will come on. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

CRUISE

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To Resume a Set Speed Suppose you set your Cruise Control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the Cruise Control. But you don’t need to reset it.

Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 h/h) or more, you can move the Cruise Control switch from “ON” to “R/A” (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second.

To Increase Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed. Here’s the first: 1. Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. 2. Push the SET button at

the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.

You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there. <

Remember, if you hold the switch at “R/A” longer than half a second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. You could be