driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: 0 Climb a long hill on a hot day. 0 Stop after high-speed driving. 0 Idle for long periods in traffic.
Tow a trailer.
If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. Turn off your air conditioner. 2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan
speed and open the window as necessary.
3. If you’re in a traffic jam, shift to NEUTRAL (N);
otherwise, shift to the highest gear while driving -- AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@).
If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for two or three minutes while you’re parked, to see if the warning stops. But then, if you still have the warning, turn ojfthe engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. Also, see “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” listed previously in this section. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.
5-17
Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see:
An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can is not running and start up even when the engine can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.
If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.
A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans C . Radiator Pressure Cap
5-18
The coolant level should be at or above the COLD mark on the overflow hose in the coolant bottle.
If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.
Heater and radiator hoses, and other camdine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.
I NOTICE:
Engine damage if you keep running your engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index.
If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check to see if the electric engine cooling fans are running. If the
engine is overheating, both fans should be running. If they aren’t, your vehicle needs service. How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and DEX-COOL@ engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information.)
Adumg d y plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean water and DEX-COOL@ coolant.
5-19
NOTICE:
A CAUTION:
In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture.
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.
When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the COLD mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.
5-20
/I\ CAUTLN:
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They pressure cap -- even a little -- they can come out are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.
5-21
1 How to Add Coolant to the Radiator
NOTICE:
Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure. Failure to follow this procedure could cause your engine to overheat and be severely damaged.
1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. (Don't press down while huning the pressure cap.)
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.
3. After the engine cools, open the coolant air
bleed valves. There are two bleed valves. One is located on the thermostat housing. The other is located on the thermostat bypass tube.
4. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mixture.) If you see a stream of coolant coming from an air bleed valve, close the valve. Otherwise, close the valves after the radiator is filled.
5. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from the engine
and the compartment.
5-23
-
XI
6. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD mark on the overflow hose in the coolant bottle.
7. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but
leave the pressure cap off.
8. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans.
9. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL" coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.
5-24
If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane. A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you’d use in a skid. In any rear blowout, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop -- well off the road if possible. If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use your jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely.
5-25
10. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this.
11. Check the coolant in the recovery tank. The level in
the coolant recovery tank should be at the HOT mark when the engine is hot or at the COLD mark when the engine is cold.
Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers.
............................................................................... ................................................................................ ............................................................................... ........................................... .......................................... ........................................... ..........................................
.................
Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured. Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:
1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P). 3. l b r n off the engine.
To be even more certain the vehicle won’t move, you can put blocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side of the vehicle, at the opposite end.
5-26
The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk.
(See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section for more information about the compact spare.) 1. Pull the carpeted mat up from the floor of the trunk
and turn the center nut on the compact spare cover to the left to remove it. Then lift and remove the cover.
2. Remove the spare tire.
5-27
A
3. Turn the nut holding the jack to the left and remove
it. Then remove the jack and wrench.
The tools you'll be using include the jack (A), extension and protection guide (B) and wheel wrench (C).
5-28
Wheel Covers
To remove a center cap, use the wrench to pry gently at the notch. Don’t use a tool that is narrower than the wrench to pry at this notch. Then pry off the cap.
They won’t come off. You will only be able to loosen them. Once you have loosened the plastic nut caps with the wheel wrench, if needed, you can finish loosening them with your fingers. Then, using the flat end of the wheel wrench, pry along the edge of the wheel cover until it comes off. Be careful; the edge may be sharp. Don’t try to remove the cover with your bare hands.
If your vehicle is equipped with wheel covers, be sure to use a wheel wrench to begin the process of loosening the plastic wheel nut caps.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
A CAUTION:
Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.
I A CAUTION:
Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.
1. Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts.
Don’t remove them yet.
2. Turn the jack handle to the right to raise the jack lift
head a few inches.
5-30
FRONT
VEHICLE
FRONT
VEHICLE
REAR EDGE OF FRONT WHEEL OPENING
FRONT EDGE OF REAR WHEEL OPENING
3. For jacking at the vehicle’s front location, put the jack lift head about 6 inches (15 cm) from the rear edge of the front wheel opening or just behind the two bolts as shown.
4. For jacking at the vehicle’s rear location, put the jack lift head about 5 inches (13 cm) from the front edge of the rear wheel opening or just behind the off-set as shown. Put the compact spare tire near you.
5-31
7. Remove any rust or dirt
from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel.
A CAUTION:
Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off.
5. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle to the
right. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground for the spare tire to fit under the vehicle.
6. Remove all wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.
5-32
A CAUTION:
Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident.
If you
Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.
9. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle to the
left. Lower the jack completely.
10. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown.
NOTICE:
Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and torque specification.
to the proper
Don’t try to put the wheel cover on your compact spare tire. It won’t fit. Store the wheel cover in the trunk until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
I NOTICE:
Wheel covers won’t fit on your compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on your compact spare, you could damage the cover or the spare.
Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 100 lb-ft (140 Nom).
5-34
Storing the Flat Tire and Tools
Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.
4fter you’ve put the compact spare tire on your vehicle, you’lineed t o store the flat tire-in your trunk. Use the following procedure to secure the flat tire in the trunk. When storing a full-size tire you must use the extension with the protector/guide to help avoid wheel surface damage. Use the extension and protector/guide located in the foam holder. To store a full-size tire, place the tire valve stem facing down and then remove the protector/guide and attach the retainer securely.
When reinstalling a compact spare tire, put the protector/guide back in the foam holder. Store the cover as far forward as possible.
5-35
Storing the Spare Tire and Tools
in the Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.
The compact spare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. See “Compact Spare Tire” in the Index. See the storage instructions label to replace your compact spare into your trunk properly.
1. Retainer 2. Cover 3. Retainer (full-size tire) 4. Compact Spare Tire 5. Nut 6. Jack 7. Wrench 8. Lock Nut Tool 9. Foam Holder 10. Bolt Screw 11. Extension and
Protector/Guide
5-36
Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 Wa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated. The compact spare is made to perform well at speeds up to 65 mph (105 km/h) for distances up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), so you can finish your trip and have your full-size tire repaired or replaced where you want. Of course, it’s best to replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good shape in case you need it again.
NOTICE:
When the compact spare is installed, don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and maybe other parts of your vehicle.
Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles. And don’t mix your compact spare tire or wheel with other wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your spare tire and its wheel together.
NOTICE:
Tire chains won’t fit your compact spare. Using them can damage your vehicle and can damage the chains too. Don’t use tire chains on your compact spare.
5-37
If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.
If you let your tires ,spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. And, the transaxle or other parts of the vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage. When you’re stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don’t spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer.
NOTICE:
-~ - _ _
Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle.
For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see “Tire Chains” in the Index. Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transaxle is in gear. If that doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. If you do need to be towed out, see “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.
$& NOTES
5-39
f i NOTES
5-40
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care
Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
Service
6-2 6-3 6-5 Fuels 6-5 6-7 6- 10 6-15 6- 17 6-20 6-24 6-25 6-26 6-29 6-30 6-36 6-43 6-44 6-46
Fuel
in Foreign Countries
Filling Your Tank Checking Things Under the Hood Engine Oil Air Cleaner Automatic Transaxle Fluid Engine Coolant Power Steering Fluid Windshield Washer Fluid Brakes Battery Bulb Replacement Tires Appearance Care Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle Cleaning the Built-in Child Restraint
6-47
6-47 6-48
6-48 6-49 6-50 6-52 6-53 6-53 6-53 6-59 6-59 6- 60 6- 60 6-60
Care of Safety Belts and Built-in Child Restraint Harness Cleaning Glass Surfaces Cleaning the Outside of the Windshield and Wiper Blades Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle Cleaning Aluminum Wheels Cleaning Tires Appearance Care Materials Chart Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Service Parts Identification Label Electrical System Replacement Bulbs Capacities and Specifications Vehicle Dimensions Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Conditioning Refrigerants
6-1
Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:
Genuine
Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to use the proper Buick Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see “Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle” in the Index. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index.
6-2
You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it.
Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “English” and “metric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle.
Fuel Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. At a minimum, it should meet specifications ASTM D48 14 in the United States and CGSB 3.5-M93 in Canada. Improved gasoline specifications have been developed by the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) for better vehicle performance and engine protection. Gasolines meeting the AAMA specification could provide improved driveability and emission control system protection compared to other gasolines. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you’re using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal, and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem.
6-3
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system, allowing your emission control system to function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In addition, gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area to help clean the air. General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines if they comply with the specifications described earlier.
~- -
NOTICE:
Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty.
If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the underhood emission control label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on and/or your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return to your authorized Buick dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask your service station operator whether or not his fuel contains MMT. General Motors does not recommend the use of such gasolines. If fuels containing MMT are used, spark plug life may be reduced and your emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized Buick dealer for service.
6-4
Filling Your Tank
Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. To check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving. You can also write us at the following address for advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
General Motors Overseas Distribution Corporation 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L 1 H 8P7
Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoIine.
6-5
The tethered cap is behind a hinged door on the left side of your vehicle.
While refueling, let the cap hang by the tether below the fuel fill opening. To remove the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The cap has a spring in it; if you let go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.
6-6
If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and wait for any “hiss” noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.
Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle” in the Index. When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.
NOTICE:
If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and your fuel tank and emissions system may be damaged. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
I ’ A CAUTION:
Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others:
Dispense gasoline only into approved containers.
CAUTION: (Continued)
0 Do not fill a container while it is inside a
vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed or on any surface other than the ground. 0 Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the
inside of the fill opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the filling is complete.
0 Don’t smoke while pumping gasoline.
A CAZ ’ION: * -
An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.
6-7
Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.
Hood Release
To open the hood, first pull the handle inside the vehicle, located just below the instrument panel and to the left of the steering column.
Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood release. Lift the hood.
6-8
When you open the hood on the 3 100 (Code Mj Engine, you’ll see:
A. Windshield Washer
Fluid Reservoir
B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap
D. Remote Positive (+)
Battery Terminal
E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G. Engine Oil Dipstick
H. Automatic Transaxle
Fluid Dipstick
I. Brake Fluid Reservoir J. Engine Coolant Recovery K. Air Cleaner
Tank
6-9
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil
LOW OIL
If the LOW OIL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see “Low Oil Level Light” in the Index.
You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. It’s a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.
6-10
The engine oil dipstick handle is the yellow loop near the front of the engine. Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
Checking Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.
When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index.
NOTICE:
Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area upper mark that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged.
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this Starburst symbol.
If you change your own oil, be sure you use oil that has the Starburst symbol on the l front of the oil container.
The engine oil fill cap is located toward the front of the engine near the yellow-looped engine oil dipstick handle. Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through.
If you have your oil changed for you, be sure the oil put into your engine is American Petroleum Institute certified for gasoline engines. You should also use the proper viscosity oil for your vehicle, as shown in the following chart:
6-12
RECOMMENDED SAE VlSCOSlTT GRADE ENGINE OILS
FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLU STARTING, SELECT THE SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE.
LOW
LOOK
FOR MIS SYMBOL
HOT
WEATHER
I + 100..
l j +27 - + 16
- + 4
- - 7
i,
, ’;;
SAE Sw-30 I PREFERRED
COLD
WEATHER
DO NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED
As shown in the chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 1OW-30 if it’s going to be 0°F (- 18 O C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50.
NOTICE:
Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.
GM Goodwrench@ oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. If you are in an area where the temperature falls below -20°F (-29”C), consider using either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE OW-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures.
6-13
Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil Your vehicle has an Oil Life Monitor. This feature will let you know when to change your oil and filter -- usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and 7,500 miles (12 500 km) since your last oil change. Under severe conditions, the indicator may come on before 3,000 miles (5 000 km). Never drive your vehicle more than 7,500 miles (1 2 500 km) or 12 months (whichever occurs first) without an oil change. The system won’t detect dust in the oil. So, if you drive in a dusty area, be sure to change your oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or sooner. Remember to reset the CHANGE OIL SOON light when the oil has been changed. For more information, see “Change Oil Soon Light” in the Index. How to Reset the CHANGE OIL SC -IN Light After changing the engine oil, the system must be reset. With the ignition key in RUN but the engine off, fully push and release the accelerator pedal slowly three times within five seconds. If the CHANGE OIL SOON light flashes, the system is resetting. Turn the key to OFF,
then start the vehicle. If the CHANGE OIL SOON light comes back on, the system has not reset. Repeat the procedure. What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.) Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all free-flowing oil from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.
Air Cleaner
To check or replace the air filter, loosen the wing nut on the air duct and lift up on the two clips located on the top of the filter cover. Disconnect the duct and reposition it while removing the side cover.
1 CA”
ION:
Operating the engine with the air cleaner off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off.
Pull out the filter. Be sure to install the air filter and install the cover tightly when you are finished. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services’’ in the Index.
NOTICE:
If the air cleaner is off, a backfire Cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner in place when you’re driving.
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Passenger Compartment Air Filter
The passenger compartment air filter is located underneath your hood just below the windshield wiper arm on the car’s passenger side (underneath the air inlet grille).
The filter traps most of the pollen from the air entering the air conditioning module. Like your engine’s air filter, it may need to be changed periodically. For information on how often to change the passenger compartment air filter, see “Maintenance Schedule’’ in the Index.
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To change the passenger compartment air filter, use the following steps:
1. Turn off the ignition when the windshield wipers
are in the up position.
2. Raise the hood. 3. Remove (disconnect) the windshield washer pump
hose from the fender rail and air inlet grille.
4. Reposition the hood weatherstrip from the right side of the vehicle (peel back halfway to center). 5. Remove (disconnect) the air inlet grille retainers. 6. Remove (disconnect) the air inlet grille. 7 . Remove (disconnect) the passenger compartment
air filter.
8. Then install the new air filter. For the type of filter
to use, see “Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts” in the Index.
9. Reposition the air inlet grille. 10. Replace the air inlet grille retainers. 11. Reposition the hood weatherstrip. 12. Reconnect the windshield washer pump hose to the
fender rail air inlet grille.
1 3. Close the hood. 14. Return the windshield wipers to the park position.
Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: 0 In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90 O F (32 O C) or higher. In hilly or mountainous terrain.
0 When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.
How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Buick dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.
I NOTICE:
Too much or too little fluid can damage your transaxle. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid.
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving:
When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32” C ) .
0 At high speed for quite a while.
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0 In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather.
While pulling a trailer.
To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it's colder than 50°F ( 10°C), you may have to drive longer.
Checking the Fluid Level
Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.
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Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:
The automatic transaxle fluid dipstick is the red loop located toward the rear of the engine.
1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or
paper towel.
2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and
then pull it back out again.
3. Check both side-s of the dipstick, and read the
lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area.
4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the
dipstick back in all the way.
How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick. 1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the
dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Don’t overfill.
NOTICE:
We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-111, because fluid with that label is made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON-I11 is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.
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3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as
described under “How to Check.”
4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the
dipstick back in all the way.
Engine Coolant The cooling s stem in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only DEX-COOL@ extended life coolant. The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low, If you have a problem with engine overheating or if you need to add coolant to your radiator, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index. A 50/50 mixture of water and DEX-COOL@ coolant will:
Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C). Give boiling protection up to 265 “F ( 129°C).
Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights and gages work as they should.
NOTICE:
When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOL@ (silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or engine coolant will require change sooner -- at radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the use of coolant other than DEX-COOL@ is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.
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What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half DEX-COOL@ coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else.
Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean water and DEX-COOL@ coolant.
NOTICE:
If you use an improper coolant mixture, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.
If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system.
NOTICE:
If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system. These can be harmful.
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Checking Coolant
If this light comes on, it means you’re low on engine coolant.
Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it. If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty, add coolant to the radiator. (See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.)
When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the COLD mark or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to the HOT mark or a little higher.
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A CAUTION:
Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost Never turn the radiator pressure cap -- even a never have to add coolant at the radiator. when the engine and radiator are hot. little ' A CAUTION:
9-
You can De wrned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.
Radiator Pressure Cap
I NOTICE:
Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiator filler neck.
When you replace your radiator pressure cap, an AC' cap is recommended. Thermostat Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature. When you replace your thermostat, an AC@ thermostat is recommended.
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Power Steering Fluid
How To Check Power Steering Fluid When the engine compartment is cool, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
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When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the HOT mark. If the fluid is at the ADD mark, you should add fluid.
Adding Washer Fluid
What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, see “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full.
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Brakes Brake Fluid
Your brake master cylinder reservoir is here. It is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid.
NOTICE:
When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. 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. Fill your washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. Don’t use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.
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There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is lealung out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake warning light will come on. See “Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.
What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme 11 No. 12377967). Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
(GM Part
’ A CAUTION:
With the wrong kind of fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.
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NOTICE:
Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced. Don’t let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See “Appearance Care” in the Index.
Brake Wear Your vehicle has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).
The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.
I NOTICE:
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.
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Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly torque wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM specifications. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. See “Brake System Inspection” in Section 7 of this manual under Part C “Periodic Maintenance Inspections.” Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you apply the brakes, with or without the vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.
Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system -- for example, when your brake linings wear down and you have to have new ones put in -- be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change -- for the worse. The braking performance you’ve come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts. Battery Every new Buick has an ACDelco Freedom@ battery. You never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend an ACDelco Freedom battery. Get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label.
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Vehicle Storage If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, remove the black, negative (-) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down.
A CAUTION:
Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” in the Index for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.
Bulb Replacement In this section you’ll find directions for changing the bulbs in some of the lamps on your vehicle. See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to find the type of bulb you should use. Hal4 3ulb A CAUTION:
Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package.
Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods. Also, for your audio system, see “Theft-Deterrent Feature’’ in the Index.
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Headlamps
I. Pull up on the headlamp retainers to release the
assembly locator tabs.
2. Slide the headlamp assembly out of the slots. 3. Lift the plastic locking tab on the electrical
connector and pull the connector from the headlamp bulb socket.
4. Connect the new headlamp assembly to the wiring
harness, making sure the connector tab snaps into place.
5. Insert the headlamp into the slots in the fascia. 6. Slide the retainers downward until they are
fully seated.
Headlamp Aiming Your vehicle has a modular headlamp system. These headlamps have horizontal and vertical aim indicators. The aim has been optically pre-set at the factory and should need no further adjustment. If ybttftrehicle is damaged in an accident and the headlamp aim seems to be affected, see your dealer. Headlamps on damaged vehicles may require recalibration of the vertical and horizontal aim by your dealer.
For the vertical adjustment, state inspection stations will generally allow a reading of plus 0.76 degrees or minus 0.76 degrees from the center of the bubble.
It is recommended that the upper limit not exceed plus 0.4 degrees from the center of the bubble. Other drivers may flash their high beams at you if your adjustment is much above plus 0.4 degrees.
To check the aim, the vehicle should be properly prepared as follows:
Place the vehicle on a level pad or surface. The vehicle should not have any snow, ice or mud attached to it. The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being done. There should not be any cargo or loading of the vehicle, except it should have a full tank of gas and one person or 160 lbs. (75 kg) on the driver’s seat. Close all doors. Tires should be properly inflated. Rock the vehicle to stabilize the suspension.
NOTICE:
To make sure your headlamps are aimed properly, read all the instructions before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to headlamp parts.
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If you find that the headlamp aiming needs adjustment, follow these steps:
I NOTICE:
Horizontal aim of the headlamp must be done first. Adjusting vertical aim first will result in incorrect headlamp aim.
Driver’s Side Headlamp Shown
A. Vertical aim adjustment screw B. Horizontal aim adjustment screw 1. Start by opening the hood and locating the vertical and horizontal aim indicators. The aiming screw for the vertical aim indicator is at the center of the headlamp cover (A) and the aiming screw for the horizontal aim indicator is on the outboard side of the headlamp cover (B).
Passenger’s Side Headlamp Shown
B. Horizontal aim adjustment screw C. Horizontal block index plate D. Vertical aiming level
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Center High-Mounted Stoplamp 1. Open the trunk.
2. Reach through the access opening in the trunk.
2. Using an E8 Tom@ socket, turn the horizontal
aiming adjustment screw (B) until the “0” (zero) on the pointer is lined up with the center marking on the horizontal block index plate (C).
3. To adjust the vertical aim, use an E8 Tom@ socket
and turn the vertical aiming adjustment screw until the bubble inside the level (D) is centered at “0” (zero).
Front Parking and lhrn Signal Lamp 1. Remove the headlamp assembly. Refer to the
removal procedure earlier in this section.
2. Remove the rubber bulb access cover. 3. Twist and pull the sidemarker lamp socket from the
headlamp assembly.
4. Holding the base of the bulb, pull the bulb from
the socket.
5. Push the new bulb into the socket. 6. Put the socket back into the headlamp assembly and
turn it to the right until it is secure.
7. Replace the rubber bulb access cover.
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Tail/Stop/Turn Signal Lamp 1. Remove the plastic wing nuts (A). (Pliers may be
required to remove the wing nuts.)
2. Pull the taillamp housing away from the body of the
vehicle (B).
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3. Remove the bulb by turning it one-quarter of a turn
right to left.
4. Place the new bulb into the bulb socket. 5. Turn the bulb one-quarter of a turn to the right
to replace.
6. Close the trunk.
3. Squeeze the tab on the socket and turn the socket
right to left.
Trunk Lid Applique
4. Pull out the socket. 5. Pull the bulb out of the socket. (There are two bulbs
on each taillamp.) 6. Push in a new bulb. 7. Replace the socket into the housing and turn to
the right.
8. Replace the taillamp housing to the body of
the vehicle.
9. Install the wing nuts. 10. Tighten the plastic nuts.
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1. Open the trunk lid halfway. 2. Remove the wing nuts (A) from the studs on the
applique. (There are eight wing nuts. Pliers may be required to remove them.)
3. Remove the applique from the trunk lid.
Then: 1. Install the new bulbs into the applique sockets (B). 2. Connect the applique to the lid. 3. Reconnect the wing nuts to the studs on the applique
and hand-tighten.
4. Close the trunk lid. Back-up Lamp The back-up lamps are located in the tyunk lid applique. (Refer to the trunk lid applique removal procedure earlier in this section for graphic and further instructions.) 1. Remove the trunk lid applique. 2. Twist and pull the back-up lamp socket from the
trunk lid applique.
3. Twist and pull the bulb from the back-up
lamp socket.
To install the new bulb: 1. Twist and push the bulb into the back-up
lamp socket.
2. Twist and push the back-up lamp socket into the
trunk lid applique.
3. Reinstall the trunk lid applique.
Dome Lamp 1.
Grasp the front center and rear center positions of the dome lamp housing and squeeze together the base plate. A until the housing releases from flat-bladed screwdriver may be necessary to pry the assembly loose. Lift the plastic locking tab on the electrical connector and pull the connector from the dome lamp assembly. Grasp the bulb housing located in the center of the assembly and pull straight up. Pull the bulb out of the socket. Push in a new bulb. Replace the socket into the dome lamp assembly. Reconnect the dome lamp assembly to the wiring harness, making sure the connector tab snaps into place. Reposition the dome lamp assembly to the roof, and gently push the assembly into the base plate.
2.
3.
4. 5. 6. 7.
8.
For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer service department.
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3. Pull the windshield wiper arm 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to
10 cm) away from the windshield.
4. While holding the wiper arm away from the glass,
push the release clip from under the blade connecting point and pull the blade assembly down toward the glass to remove it from the wiper arm.
5. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm
until you hear the release clip “click” into place.
For wiper blade replacement length and type, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index. Tires Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Buick Warranty booklet for details.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
1. Turn on the wipers to the low wipe setting. 2. Turn off the ignition while the wipers are at the
outer positions of the wiper pattern. The blades are more accessible for removalh-eplacement while in this position.
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0
Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index. Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when your tires are cold. Overinflated tires are more likely to be impact -- such as when you hit a pothole. cut, punctured or broken by a sudden Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your tread is badly worn, or if your tires have been damaged, replace them.
Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire-Loading Information label, which is on the inside of the trunk lid, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
NOTICE:
Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation or overinflation is all right. It’s not. If your tires don’t have enough air (underinflation), you can get the following:
Too much flexing
0 Too much heat 0 Tire overloading
Bad wear
0 Bad handling
Bad fuel economy.
NOTICE: (Continued)
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Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (10 000 to 13 000 km). Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See “When It’s Time for New Tires’’ and “Wheel Replacement” later in this section for more information. The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index for scheduled rotation intervals.
I NOTICE: (Continued)
If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you can get the following:
Unusual wear 0 Bad handling 0 Rough ride
Needless damage from road hazards.
When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa).
How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.
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When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here. Don’t include the compact spare tire in your tire rotation. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire-Loading Information label. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” in the Index.
When It’s Time for New Tires
One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining.
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off. (See “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index.)
You need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: 0 You can see the indicators at three or more places
around the tire.
0 You can see cord or fabric showing through the
tire’s rubber.
0 The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deep
enough to show cord or fabric.
0 The tire has a bump, bulge or split.
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The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that can’t be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage.
Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That way your vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle. If your tires have an all-season tread design, the TPC number will be followed by an “MS” (for mud and snow). If you ever replace your tires with those not having a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating and construction type (bias, bias-belted or radial) as your original tires.
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A CAUTION:
Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle. Be sure to use the same size and type tires on all wheels. It’s all right to drive with your compact spare, though. It was developed for use on your vehicle.
,A CAUTION:
If you use bias-ply tires on your vehicle, the wheel rim flanges could develop cracks after many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel could fail suddenly, causing a crash. Use only radial-ply tires with the wheels on your vehicle.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.) The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires. While the tires available on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these grades, they must also conform to Federal safety requirements and additional General Motors Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.
Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate. Traction -- A, B, C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on braking (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction.
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Temperature -- A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life and best overall performance. Scheduled wheel alignment and wheel balancing are not needed. However, if you notice unusual tire wear or your vehicle pulling one way or the other, the alignment may need to be reset. If you notice your vehicle vibrating when driving on a smooth road, your wheels may need to be rebalanced. Wheel Replacement Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your dealer if any of these conditions exist.
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Your dealer will know the lund of wheel you need. Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for your Buick model.
NOTICE:
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The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire chain clearance to the body and chassis.
1UTION:
Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you lose control. You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for replacement.
See “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index for more information. us
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I A CAUTION:
a used wheel on your vehicle is
dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause an accident. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel.
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Tire Chains
NOTICE:
Use tire chains only where legal and only when you must. Use only SAE Class 44S” type chains that are the proper size for your tires. Install them on the front tires and tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain manufacturer’s instructions. If you can hear the chains contacting your vehicle, stop and retighten them. If the contact continues, slow down until it stops. Driving too fast or spinning the wheels with chains on will damage your vehicle. Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything from a container to clean your vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you’re cleaning the inside.