1996 Buick Century Owners Manual

BUICK

The 1996 Buick Century Owner’s Manual

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This section explains how to start and operate your Buick.

This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains “SRS” system.

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

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

Seats and Restraint Systems ............................................................. FeaturesandControls .................................................................. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems ..................................................... YourDrivingandtheRoad .............................................................. ProblemsontheRoad .................................................................. Service and Appearance Care ............................................................ 6-1 Maintenanceschedule....... ........................................................... 7-1 Customer Assistance Information ........................................................ 8-1 Index ................................................................................

This section 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 8-7.

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

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

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

p+

C E R T I F I E D

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

National Institute for

A U T O M O T I V E

S E R V I C E

E X C E L L E N C E

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux propriktaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en franGais chez votre concessionaire ou au:

DGN Marketing Services Ltd. 1500 Bonhill Rd. Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1 C7

Litho in U S A . Part No. 2563 1999 B First Edition

0 Copyright General Motors Corporation 1995 All Rights Reserved

“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, 19081. He 1 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 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 famous. During World War I, Buick built Liberty aircraft engines as well as Red Cross ambulances so successfully 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 Cur 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 Skylurk

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

1949 Roadmuter

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I962 Buick Special

Built inside the walls of the old buildings in Buick’s former Flint complex, which forrned 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 Managel; 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.

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How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features 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 for what you need is the Index in the 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. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

I A CAUTION:

These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.

In the 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.

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

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

I NOTICE:

These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.

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 the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would

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

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

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

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

DOOR LOCK UNLOCK

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

SIGNALS e e3

TURN

WINDSHIELD WIPER

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

POWER WINDOW

,111,

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

DAYTIME -

RUNNING * '

LAMPS '

# 0

VENTILATING FAN

FOG LAMPS

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Here are some other symbols you may see:

(a)

LIGHTER

HORN

SPEAKER

COOLANT TEMP

CHARGING I-1

BATTERY

SYSTEM

BRAKE

COOLANT

FUSE

p3

FUEL

ENGINE OIL w, ANTI-LOCK (@)

PRESSURE

BRAKES

Section 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 air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about reclining front seatbacks, head restraints and folding seats. Manual Front Seat /c\ CAUTION:

if you try to

You can lose 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 l the vehicle is not moving.

front seat to the left to unlock it. Slide the seat to I where you want it, then

1 Move the lever under tne

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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-ewer aeaI: (uption,

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 backward 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. x 1 -

tE

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.

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

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can't do their job when you're reclined like this. The shoulder belt can't do its job-because it won't be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go inta it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap. belt can't do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

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Yead 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. Folding Ret Seats To add more cargo room, the seatback 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.

Folding Second Seat

To lower the split second seatback: Each seat has its own release button. Hold the release button down and pull the seatback forward and down. To raise the split second seatback: Lift the seatback until it locks in the upright position. Push back and forth on the seatback to be sure it is locked in place.

Folding Third Seat (Option)

To lower the rear-facing third seatback: I . Open the liftgate and lift the seat release lever

located at the lower corner of the storage compartment on the passenger side.

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

push it down to the locked position.

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3. Lower the storage compartment lid.

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 liftpate and lift the storage compartment lid. 2. Fold it forward against the seatback.

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

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.

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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 (SRS), or air bag system.

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

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Your car has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Warning Light” in the Index .)

In most 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.

Put someone on it.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels.

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Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop.

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

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or the instrument panel ...

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

home, why should I wear safety belts?

&.’ 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 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.

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers QZ 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 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. If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to wear safety belts?

A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in

QZ

most 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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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part 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 part of this manual 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.

Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. 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 this “Driver Position” part doesn’t apply to your vehicle. To learn how to use your driver position safety belts, read the Canadian Owner’s Manual Safety Belt Supplement. It comes with every new Century first sold in Canada.

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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.

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

@ What's wrong with this?

CAUTION:

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

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?

I A

LJTION:

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

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

@ What’s wrong with this?

A C TION:

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

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?

I- QUTION:

You 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.

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system. Your Buick has an air bag for the driver. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

/11 CAU I ION: you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if have an air. bag. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air ’ bag is only a “supplemental restraint.” That is, it works with safety belts but doesn’t replace them. Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. Everyone in your vehicle, including the driver,

should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or

not there’s an .-air bag for that person.

J’

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.

There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG.

AIR BAG

The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.

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Ha

th Air Bag bystc 1 Works

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

~~

~~

~~

I , C A U T I O N :

Don’t put anything on, or attach anything to, the steering wheel. Also, don’t put anything (such as pets or objects) between the driver and the steering wheel. If something is between an occupant and an air bag, it could affect the

performance of the air bag -- or worse, it could

cause injury.

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When should an air bag inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.’’ If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 15 mph (14 to 24 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle damage is only one indication of this.

What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle 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 air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag 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 help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts 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 belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions.

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What will you see after an air bag inflates? After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub will be hot for a short time. The part of the bag that comes into contact with you may be warm, but it will never be too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bag. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

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.

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 for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. 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 module. Do not open or break the air bag cover.

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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. Your Buick dealer and the Century Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.

For up to two minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape, or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

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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 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 this “Right Front Passenger Position” part doesn’t apply to your vehicle. To learn how to use your right front passenger position safety belts, read the Canadian Owner’s Manual Safety Belt Supplement. It comes with every new Century first sold in Canada. The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this section.

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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 If your vehicle has a front split seat and a rear bench seat; someone can sit in the center positions.

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.

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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

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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=Shoulder Belt

The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

I If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch

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.

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

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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.

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

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

Children 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.

I A 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 child’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.

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CAUTION: (Continued)

heavy you can't hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-1b. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

I.

vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much -- until a Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a crash. During a crash a baby will become so

CAUTION: (Continued)

1-32

Child Restraints Be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then 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 the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

and injure people in

Top Strap

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.

For cars first sold in 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.

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 will show you how.

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

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.

5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while

you push down on the child restraint.

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 let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position

You'll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

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1.

2.

3.

4.

Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. 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 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.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure 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.

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ring a Child Restraint in the Right .t Seat PC -tic

Was your two-door 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 this “Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (2-Door Mode1.s)” part doesn’t apply to your vehicle. To learn how to secure a child restraint in the right front seat, read the Canadian Owner’s Manual Safety Belt Supplement. It comes with every new Century first sold in Canada.

9 ,

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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 part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Your dealer can order the belt and attaching hardware and install the hardware for you. It’s free. The special belt is GM Part No. 12340286. Your dealer can find the part number for the correct attaching hardware in the accessory section of the GM Parts Catalog.

A CAUTION:

Don’t use the speciaI infantlchild 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.

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 infantkhild 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.

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.

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

latch plate.

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9.

10.

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. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.

Removing the InfantlChild 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.

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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.

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 safety belts properly. 0 Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out

in a crash.

0 Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

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Never do this. Here two children me 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.

e.’ 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.

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Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would ‘then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.

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.

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Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. The front seat lap-shoulder belts have plenty of extra length built in, so they will fit 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 the safety belt warning light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired.

Torn or frayed safety 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. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.) Replacing Restraint System Parts 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. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

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. Keys

I A 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.

2-1

The ignition keys are

The door keys are for the

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.

1 I'NOTICE:

Your Buick has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of 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.

2-2

Door Locks

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.

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.

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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 and Circuit Breakers” in the Index for more information. 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) If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

Power Door Locks

Press the power door lock switch on either front door to lock or unlock all the doms atmce.

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 PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). 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 if the transaxle is in gear. All doors will automatically unlock when you turn the ignition off.

2-4

Should interference to this system occur, try this:

Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions on battery replacement.

0 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.

0 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. lperat fhe drwer’s door will unlock and the interior lamps will go on when UNLOCK is pressed. If pressed again within five seconds, all doors will unlock. The interior lamps 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 PARK (P). If you have the wagon, the ignition must also be OFF.

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.

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, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched to it. 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 Duracella batteries,

I-

To replace batteries: 1. 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. Reassemble the transmitter. Make sure the cover is on tightly, so water won’t get in and snap the cover together. Check the transmitter operation.

2. 3. 4.

5.

TrunkLiftgate c- A CAUTION:

- ~-

Trunk Lock

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

It can be dangerous to drive with the liftgate, liftglass or trunk lid open because 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, liftglass or trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the liftgate, liftglass or trunk lid:

Make sure all 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 outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Remote Trunk or Liftgate Release

You’ll find the release button in the glove box. The trunk will unlock anytime the ignition is on or off. If you have the wagon, the liftgate wi1.l unlock when the ignition is on, and the transaxle is in PARK (P).

2-7

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

NOTICE:

_ _ ~ _ _

~~

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

2-8

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.

Key in the Ignition If you leave 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. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? @ Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk

or glove box.

0 Lock the glove box.

Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

0 Then take the door key with you.

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Turn the key to the left to release the liftgate glass. Then, pull the glass up by the handle. To close, lower the glass until the latch catches. 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.

New Vehicle “Break-In”

’

NOTICE:

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

Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. 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. Don’t tow a trailer during break-in. See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

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Ignition Positions With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five positions.

ACCESSORY (A): Position in which you can operate your radio or windshield wipers. Press in the ignition switch as you turn the top of it toward you. LOCK (B): The only position in which you can remove the key. This locks your steering wheel, ignition and transaxle.

OFF (C): 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. RUN (D): 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 (E): Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to RUN for normal driving.

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.

2-11

Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

I NOTICE:

Starting Your 2.2 Liter 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:

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

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.

2. 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.

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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 engine 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 Vehicle” in the Index.

Starting Your 3.1 Liter 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.

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 up to 15 seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.

2-13

Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

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 engine 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 Vehicle’’ in the Index.

In very cold weather, 0” F (-‘18 O 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.

10 use the coolant heater: 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.

could cause an electrical shock. Also, the 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 AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

4. 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 outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here; we ask that you contact your Buick dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

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Automatic Transaxle Operation Your shift lever is located on the steering column. There are several different positions for your shift lever.

P R N p l 3 2 1

PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

A CAUTION:

It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. 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, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to WVERSE (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 “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

I A CAUTION:

Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) 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 PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0): 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.

2-17

THIRD (3) or DRIVE (D): If your automatic transaxle does not have AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@), DRIVE (D) is for normal driving, at all speeds, in most street and highway situations. If your automatic transaxle has overdrive, THIRD (3) is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (a).

DRIVE (D) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (a): Here are some times you might choose THRD (3) or - When driving on hilly, winding roads. - When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting

between gears.

- When going down a steep hill. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (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.

2-18

Parking Brake

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (I), 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 and 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.

2-19

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 vour 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.

Shifti 3 In’ PAnK (P)

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if‘ the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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

set the parking brake with your left foot.

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2. Move the shift lever into the PARK (P) position

like this:

Pull the lever toward you.

Move the lever up as far as it will go.

3. Move the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

2-21

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

A CAUTION

It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.

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

Note: If for some reason you leave your vehicle running and it is not in PARK (P) and the parking brake is applied, your doors will automatically lock when you close the door. Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) 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 PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) 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 PARK (P).

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Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake to shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN position. See “Automatic Transaxle Operation” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. 2 . 3. 4.

Turn the key to OFF. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear you want. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.

5 .

Parking Over Things That Burn

A - I

CAUTION:

Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.

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Engine Exhaust A, CAUTION:

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

IW.

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: 0 Your exhaust system sounds strange or

different.

0 Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. 0 Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. 0 Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. Repairs weren’t done correctly.

0 Your vehicle or exhaust system had been

modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle:

Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and

0 Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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Idling the engine with the air system control off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

- A CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you’ve left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).

Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” 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 Power Windows

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 r

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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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 your 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.

Wrn SignaVMultifunction Lever

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

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer and Passing Signal Windshield Wipers Windshield Washer

0 Cruise Control (Option)

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator 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.

An 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 arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.

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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 arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers’’ in the Index). Turn Signal Reminder If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the OFF position. Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer

Windshield Wipers

_:::a::_

To change the headlamps 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 light on the instrument panel also will be on.

You control the windshield wipers by turning the band