2005 Buick Century Owners Manual

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while riding in a vehicle. A baby does not weigh much – until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy it is not possible to (Continued) CAUTION: CAUTION: (Continued) {CAUTION: hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint. Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inﬂates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts offer protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. 1-31 {CAUTION: Newborn infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant’s body, the back and shoulders. Infants always should be secured in appropriate infant restraints. Q: What are the different types of add-on child restraints? A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child’s weight, height, and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used. For most basic types of child restraints, there are many different models available. When purchasing a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. The restraint manufacturer’s instructions that come with the restraint state the weight and height limitations for a particular child restraint. In addition, there are many kinds of restraints available for children with special needs. 1-32 Child Restraint Systems {CAUTION: The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child’s hip bones are still so small that the vehicle’s regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that is unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. Young children always should be secured in appropriate child restraints. An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous ﬂat surface. Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle. 1-33 A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint. A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. 1-34 Q: How do child restraints work? A: A child restraint system is any device designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A built-in child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add-on child restraint system is a portable one, which is purchased by the vehicle’s owner. For many years, add-on child restraints have used the adult belt system in the vehicle. To help reduce the chance of injury, the child also has to be secured within the restraint. The vehicle’s belt system secures the add-on child restraint in the vehicle, and the add-on child restraint’s harness system holds the child in place within the restraint. One system, the three-point harness, has straps that come down over each of the infant’s shoulders and buckle together at the crotch. The ﬁve-point harness system has two shoulder straps, two hip straps and a crotch strap. A shield may take the place of hip straps. A T-shaped shield has shoulder straps that are attached to a ﬂat pad which rests low against the child’s body. A shelf- or armrest-type shield has straps that are attached to a wide, shelf-like shield that swings up or to the side. 1-35 A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the ﬁt of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high-back booster seats have a ﬁve-point harness. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window. When choosing a child restraint, 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 or the LATCH system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. When securing an add-on child restraint, refer to the instructions that come with the restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer. 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, therefore, recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here is why: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inﬂates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inﬂating airbag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. 1-36 Top Strap Some child restraints have a top strap, or “top tether.” It can help restrain the child restraint during a collision. For it to work, a top strap must be properly anchored to the vehicle. Some top strap-equipped child restraints are designed for use with or without the top strap being anchored. Others require the top strap always to be anchored. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint. If yours requires that the top strap be anchored, do not use the restraint unless it is anchored properly. If the child restraint does not have a top strap, one can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints. Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a kit is available. {CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger’s airbag if it inﬂates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It is always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle – even when no child is in it. 1-37 {CAUTION: Each top tether bracket is designed to anchor only one child restraint. Attaching more than one child restraint to a single bracket could cause the anchor to come loose or even break during a crash. A child or others could be injured if this happens. To help prevent injury to people and damage to your vehicle, attach only one child restraint per bracket. Once you have the top strap anchored, you will be ready to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions say. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. In the United States, some child restraints also have a top strap. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. Anchor the top strap to an anchor point speciﬁed in Top Strap Anchor Location on page 1-39. Be sure to use an anchor point located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. 1-38 Top Strap Anchor Location The vehicle has top strap anchors installed for the rear seating positions. Do not secure a child restraint with a top strap in the right front passenger’s position if a national or local law requires that the top strap be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. There is no place to anchor the top strap in this position. If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH system, see “Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System)” following. They are located under trim covers on the rear seatback ﬁller panel. 1-39 Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) The vehicle has the LATCH system. You will ﬁnd anchors in all three rear seating positions. This system, designed to make installation of child restraints easier, does not use the vehicle’s safety belts. Instead it uses vehicles anchors and child restraint attachments to secure the restraints. Some restraints also use another vehicle anchor to secure a top tether strap. A. Lower Anchorage B. Lower Anchorage C. Top Tether 1-40 To assist you in locating the lower anchors for this child restraint system, each seating position with the LATCH system has a label on the seatback at each lower anchor position. The labels are located near the base of all three rear seating positions. {CAUTION: If a LATCH-type child restraint is not attached to its anchorage points, the restraint will not be able to protect the child correctly. In a crash, the child could be seriously injured or killed. Make sure that a LATCH-type child restraint is properly installed using the anchorage points, or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. 1-41 A. Lower Anchorage B. Lower Anchorage In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you need a child restraint designed for that system. Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System 1. Find the LATCH anchorages for the seating position you want to use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the back of the seat cushion. See Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 1-40. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3. Attach and tighten the LATCH attachments on the child restraint to the LATCH anchorages in the vehicle. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 4. If the child restraint is forward-facing, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchorage. The child restraint instructions will show you how. Also see Top Strap on page 1-37. 5. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, simply unhook the top tether from the top tether anchorage and then disconnect the LATCH attachments from the LATCH anchorages. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH system, see Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 1-40. See Top Strap on page 1-37 if the child restraint has one. If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Put the child restraint on the seat. 2. 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. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. 1-42 3. 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. 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 1-43 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 Rear Seat Position If your child restraint is equipped with the latch system, see Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 1-40. See Top Strap on page 1-37 if the child restraint has one. If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the lap belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may ﬁnd it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 1-44 {CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger’s airbag if it inﬂates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It is always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 1-45 To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH system, see Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 1-40. There is no top strap anchor in the right front passenger’s position. Do not secure a child seat in this position if a national or local law requires that the top strap be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. See Top Strap on page 1-37 if the child restraint has one. 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 its free end while you push down on the child restraint. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may ﬁnd it helpful to use your knee to push the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 1-46 Your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here is why: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inﬂates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inﬂating airbag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child restraint. If you need to secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, you will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. See Manual Seats on page 1-2. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 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. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. 1-47 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. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 1-48 Airbag System Your vehicle has airbags – a frontal airbag for the driver and another frontal airbag for the right front passenger. Your vehicle may also have a side impact airbag for the driver. If your vehicle has a side impact airbag for the driver it will say AIR BAG on the airbag covering on the side of the driver’s seatback closest to the door. Frontal airbags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inﬂating frontal airbag. But these airbags must inﬂate very quickly to do their job and comply with federal regulations. 1-49 6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. You may ﬁnd it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 7. 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. Here are the most important things to know about the airbag systems: CAUTION: (Continued) {CAUTION: You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt, even if you have airbags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Airbags are designed to work with safety belts but do not replace them. Frontal airbags for the driver and right front passenger are designed to deploy only in moderate to severe frontal and near frontal crashes. They are not designed to inﬂate in rollover, rear or low-speed frontal crashes, or in many side crashes. And, for some unrestrained occupants, frontal airbags may provide less protection in frontal crashes than more forceful airbags have provided in the past. The side impact airbag for the driver is designed to inﬂate only in moderate to severe crashes CAUTION: (Continued) 1-50 where something hits the driver’s side of your vehicle. It is not designed to inﬂate in frontal, in rollover or in rear crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly, whether or not there is an airbag for that person. {CAUTION: Both frontal and side impact airbags inﬂate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you are too close to an inﬂating airbag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for airbag inﬂation before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with frontal airbags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle, and should not lean on the door. {CAUTION: Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inﬂates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Older Children” or “Infants and Young Children.” There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-31 for more information. 1-51 Where Are the Airbags? The driver’s frontal air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. The right front passenger’s frontal air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. 1-52 If your vehicle has one, the driver’s side impact air bag is in the side of the driver’s seatback closest to the door. {CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the bag might not inﬂate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inﬂating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put anything between an occupant and an airbag, and do not attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering. Do not let seat covers block the inﬂation path of a side impact airbag. 1-53 When Should an Airbag Inﬂate? The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal airbags are designed to inﬂate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. But they are designed to inﬂate only if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold. Deployment thresholds take into account a variety of desired deployment and non-deployment events and are used to predict how severe a crash is likely to be in time for the airbags to inﬂate and help restrain the occupants. Whether your frontal airbags will or should deploy is not based on how fast your vehicle is traveling. It depends largely on what you hit, the direction of the impact and how quickly your vehicle slows down. If the front of your vehicle goes straight into a wall that does not move or deform, the threshold level is about 12 to 18 mph (19 to 29 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with speciﬁc vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. Airbags may inﬂate at different crash speeds. For example: If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the airbag could inﬂate at a different crash speed than if the object were moving. If the object deforms, the airbag could inﬂate at a different crash speed than if the object does not deform. If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole) the airbag could inﬂate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a wide object (like a wall). If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle the airbag could inﬂate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle goes straight into the object. The frontal airbags (driver and right front passenger) are not intended to inﬂate during vehicle rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts because inﬂation would not likely help the occupants. Your vehicle may or may not have a driver’s side impact air bag. See Airbag System on page 1-49. A driver’s side impact air bag is designed to inﬂate in moderate to severe side crashes involving the driver’s door. A side impact air bag will inﬂate if the crash severity is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” The threshold level can vary with speciﬁc vehicle design. 1-54 (cid:127) (cid:127) (cid:127) (cid:127) A driver’s side impact air bag is not designed to inﬂate in frontal or near-frontal impacts, rollovers or rear impacts, because inﬂation would not likely 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. For frontal air bags, inﬂation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal and near-frontal impacts. For side impact air bags, inﬂation is determined by the location and severity of the impact. What Makes an Airbag Inﬂate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the airbag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. For both the frontal and side impact airbags, the sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inﬂator, which inﬂates the airbag. The inﬂator, airbag and related hardware are all part of the airbag modules. Frontal airbag modules are located inside the steering wheel and instrument panel. For vehicles with a driver’s side impact airbag, the airbag modules are located in the seatback closest to the driver’s door. How Does an Airbag Restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside of the vehicle. The airbag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Airbags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But the frontal airbags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts, and many side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the airbag. A side impact airbag would not help you in many types of collisions, including frontal or near frontal collisions, rollovers, and rear impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward that airbag. Airbags 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 for the driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal airbags, and only in moderate to severe side collisions for vehicles with a driver’s side impact airbag. 1-55 What Will You See After an Airbag Inﬂates? After the airbag inﬂates, it quickly deﬂates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the airbag inﬂated. Some components of the airbag module – the steering wheel hub for the driver’s airbag, the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, the side of the seatback closest to the door for the driver’s side impact airbag – will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from the vents in the deﬂated airbags. Airbag inﬂation does not prevent the driver from seeing or being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle. {CAUTION: When an airbag 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 not get out of the vehicle after an airbag inﬂates, then get fresh air by opening a window or a door. If you experience breathing problems following an airbag deployment, you should seek medical attention. 1-56 If you damage the covering for the driver’s Notice: or the right front passenger’s airbag, or the airbag covering on the driver’s seatback, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the airbag module in the steering wheel, both the airbag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s airbag, or the airbag module and seatback for the driver’s side impact airbag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings. In many crashes severe enough to inﬂate an airbag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger airbag. (cid:127) Airbags are designed to inﬂate only once. After an airbag inﬂates, you will need some new parts for your airbag system. If you do not get them, the airbag system will not be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include airbag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. (cid:127) Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module which records information after a crash. See Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data Recorders on page 7-9. Let only qualiﬁed technicians work on your airbag systems. Improper service can mean that an airbag system will not work properly. See your dealer for service. 1-57 (cid:127) Restraint System Check Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder 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 airbag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.) Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Airbags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in several places around your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 7-11. {CAUTION: For up to 10 seconds after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still inﬂate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an airbag when it inﬂates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are probably part of the airbag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualiﬁed to do so. The airbag system does not need regular maintenance. 1-58 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash {CAUTION: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible. If you have had a crash, do you need new belts or LATCH system parts? 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 parts. If the LATCH system was being used during a more severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system was not being used at the time of the collision. If an airbag inﬂates, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier in this section. 1-59 ✍ NOTES 1-60 Section 2 Features and Controls Keys ...............................................................2-2 Remote Keyless Entry System .........................2-4 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ...........2-5 Doors and Locks ............................................2-10 Door Locks ..................................................2-10 Power Door Locks ........................................2-11 Programmable Automatic Door Locks ..............2-11 Lockout Protection ........................................2-12 Leaving Your Vehicle ....................................2-12 Trunk ..........................................................2-12 Windows ........................................................2-14 Power Windows ............................................2-15 Sun Visors ...................................................2-15 Theft-Deterrent Systems ..................................2-16 PASS-Key® II ...............................................2-16 Starting and Operating Your Vehicle ................2-17 New Vehicle Break-In ....................................2-17 Ignition Positions ..........................................2-18 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...................2-19 Starting Your Engine .....................................2-19 Engine Coolant Heater ..................................2-20 Automatic Transaxle Operation .......................2-21 Parking Brake ..............................................2-24 Shifting Into Park (P) .....................................2-25 Shifting Out of Park (P) .................................2-26 Parking Over Things That Burn .......................2-27 Engine Exhaust ............................................2-27 Running Your Engine While You Are Parked .......2-28 Mirrors ...........................................................2-29 Manual Rearview Mirror .................................2-29 Manual Rearview Mirror with OnStar® ..............2-29 Outside Power Mirrors ...................................2-30 Outside Convex Mirror ...................................2-30 OnStar® System .............................................2-31 Storage Areas ................................................2-33 Glove Box ...................................................2-33 Front Storage Area .......................................2-33 Convenience Net ..........................................2-33 2-1 Keys {CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The children or others could be badly injured or even killed. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children. 2-2 The vehicle has two keys that are used for separate functions. The ignition key is for the ignition only. The door key is for the driver door and all other locks. The keys have unique codes embedded in them to help prevent theft. See PASS-Key® II on page 2-16 for more information. Your dealer or Buick Roadside Assistance can provide the correct codes for the keys. Contact your dealer or see Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6 for more information. Notice: you may have to damage the vehicle to get in. Be sure you have spare keys. If the vehicle has the OnStar ® system with an active subscription, and the keys were locked inside, a command could be sent by the OnStar ® system to unlock the vehicle. See OnStar® System on page 2-31 for more information. If you ever lock your keys in your vehicle, 2-3 Remote Keyless Entry System Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modiﬁcations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: (cid:127) Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. (cid:127) Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again. (cid:127) Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See “Battery Replacement” under Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on page 2-5. If you are still having trouble, see your dealer or a qualiﬁed technician for service. 2-4 (cid:127) Remote Keyless Entry System Operation The remote keyless entry transmitter enables the vehicle’s doors to be locked and unlocked, or the trunk lid to be released, from about 3 feet (1 m) and up to 30 feet (9 m) away. LOCK: Press the LOCK button to lock all the doors. UNLOCK: Press the UNLOCK button to unlock the driver door and turn on the interior lamps. See “Illumination on Remote Activation” later in this section for more details. Press UNLOCK again to unlock the passenger doors. F (Trunk Release): To release the trunk lid, press this button. The trunk will only unlock if the transaxle is in PARK (P). L (Remote Alarm): Press this button to activate an alarm. The ignition must be in OFF or ACCESSORY for the remote alarm to work. When the remote alarm button is pressed, the headlamps will ﬂash, the horn will sound repeatedly, and the interior lamps will turn on. The alarms will turn off when one of the following occurs: The remote alarm button on the remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed a second time. The ignition is moved to RUN. The alarms have been on for about two minutes. Security Feedback The remote keyless entry transmitter can be programmed so that when the LOCK or UNLOCK button is pressed, the vehicle gives visual or audible feedback conﬁrmation. Each lock or unlock command veriﬁcation must be programmed individually. The ignition must be OFF for this feature to work. Disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for up to a year will not affect the programmed mode. 2-5 (cid:127) (cid:127) (cid:127) 4. Press the remote keyless entry transmitter LOCK button to advance to the next lock mode. If cycled beyond Mode 4, the vehicle will enter Mode 1. 5. To set a mode, release the power door LOCK switch after the chime sequence of the desired mode is heard. Programming the UNLOCK Command One of four modes can be selected to conﬁrm an UNLOCK command. Mode 1 (One Chime): No Veriﬁcation Mode 2 (Two Chimes): Horn Chirp Mode 3 (Three Chimes): Headlamps Flash Mode 4 (Four Chimes): Horn Chirp and Headlamps Flash Programming the LOCK Command One of four modes can be selected to conﬁrm a LOCK command. Mode 1 (One Chime): No Veriﬁcation Mode 2 (Two Chimes): Horn Chirp Mode 3 (Three Chimes): Headlamps Flash Mode 4 (Four Chimes): Horn Chirp and Headlamps Flash The vehicle was originally programmed to Mode 3. The mode may have been changed since then. To determine the current lock mode, or to change the lock mode, do the following: 1. Close all doors and turn the ignition key to RUN. 2. Press and hold the power door lock switch in the LOCK position. 3. While holding the power door lock switch in the LOCK position, press and release the remote keyless entry transmitter LOCK button. A series of one to four chimes will sound, corresponding to the current lock mode. 2-6 The vehicle was originally programmed to Mode 3. The mode may have been changed since then. To determine the current unlock mode, or to change the unlock mode, do the following: 1. Close all doors and turn the ignition key to RUN. 2. Press and hold the power door lock switch in the unlock position. 3. While holding the power door lock switch in the unlock position, press and release the remote keyless entry transmitter UNLOCK button. A series of one to four chimes will sound, corresponding to the current unlock mode. 4. Press the remote keyless entry transmitter UNLOCK button to advance to the next unlock mode. If cycled beyond Mode 4, the vehicle will enter Mode 1. 5. To set a mode, release the power door unlock switch after the chime sequence of the desired mode is heard. Delayed Locking This feature can be turned on or off. It delays the locking of the doors for ﬁve seconds after the LOCK position on the power door lock, or the LOCK button on the remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed and the last door is closed. If a door is opened before ﬁve seconds, the delayed lock is cancelled. When all doors are closed again, delayed locking begins again. Three chimes will sound to indicate that this feature is on. The chime will sound only when the key is not in the ignition and a door is open. To cancel delay locking, do any of the following: (cid:127) Press the unlock portion of the power door lock switch. (cid:127) Press the UNLOCK button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. (cid:127) Press the LOCK portion of the power door lock switch a second time. (cid:127) Press the LOCK button on the remote keyless entry transmitter a second time. Insert the ignition key into the ignition. 2-7 (cid:127) Programming Delayed Locking Delayed locking has two modes. Mode One (One Chime): Delayed locking is turned off. Mode Two (Two Chimes): Delayed locking is turned on. 1. Close the doors. 2. Move the ignition key to the RUN position. 3. Apply the regular brakes. 4. Press and hold the power door unlock switch. While holding the power door unlock switch, move the shift lever out of and back into PARK (P). One or two chimes will sound indicating what mode the delayed locking is in. 5. Release the power door unlock switch, after one of the chime mode sequences, to set the desired mode. Illumination on Remote Activation This feature provides interior lighting when a remote keyless entry door unlock command is received by the vehicle. The ignition must be off for this feature to work. The interior lamps will stay on until either the ignition is turned to RUN or until 40 seconds has elapsed. If a door is opened during this time, the timed lighting will be canceled, and the interior lamps will remain on. Also see “Entry Lighting” under Interior Lamps on page 3-15 for more information. Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is uniquely 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 additional transmitters so they also can be re-coded to match the new transmitter. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter cannot unlock the vehicle. The vehicle can have a maximum of four transmitters coded to it. 2-8 Battery Replacement The battery in the remote keyless entry transmitter should last about three years. If the battery is weak the transmitter will not work within its normal range. It is probably time to change the battery if you have to be very close to the vehicle before the transmitter works. Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter. To replace the battery do the following: 1. Insert a ﬂat object like a thin coin into the slot on the back of the transmitter and pry apart the front and back. 2. Remove the old battery, but do not use a metal object to do this. Make sure the new battery is a type CR2032 or equivalent, and that the positive (+) side of the battery is facing down. 3. Snap the front and back of the transmitter together. 4. Resynchronize and test the operation of the transmitter with the vehicle. Resynchronization After the battery has been changed in the remote keyless transmitter, it will need to be resynchronized. To do this, press and hold both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the remote keyless entry transmitter until one horn chirp is heard. 2-9 Doors and Locks Door Locks {CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. (cid:127) Passengers — especially children — can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. (cid:127) Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle whenever you leave it. (cid:127) Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening. 2-10 There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. From the outside, use your key or remote keyless entry transmitter. From the inside, use the manual or power door locks. To unlock the driver’s side door from the outside with the key, insert the key and turn it toward the front of the vehicle. To lock the driver’s side door from the outside with your key, insert the key and turn it toward the rear of the vehicle. To lock the door from the inside, push the manual lock lever forward. To unlock the door, pull the lever rearward. Power Door Locks The vehicle has front power door lock switches. Press the top portion of a door lock switch to unlock or the bottom portion to lock all doors. The rear doors do not have power door lock switches. Programmable Automatic Door Locks Programmable power door locks are intended to provide enhanced security and convenience by automatically locking and unlocking doors under certain conditions. The doors can be set to one of four operating modes. Mode 1: Doors do not lock or unlock automatically when the transaxle is shifted out of or into PARK (P). Mode 2: All doors automatically lock when the transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P), but do not unlock automatically when the transaxle is shifted into PARK (P). Mode 3: All doors automatically lock when the transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P) and automatically unlock when the transaxle is shifted into PARK (P). Mode 4: All doors automatically lock when the transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P) but only the driver’s door automatically unlocks when the transaxle is shifted into PARK (P). The vehicle was originally programmed to Mode 3. The mode may have been changed since then. To determine the current mode, or to change the mode, do the following: 1. Turn the ignition key to RUN. 2. Close all of the doors. 3. Apply the brakes. 4. Press and hold the power door lock switch in the lock position. 5. Move the shift lever out of and back into PARK (P) while holding the door lock switch in the LOCK position. 6. Release the door lock switch to set the desired mode. 2-11 Trunk {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can not see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid: (cid:127) Make sure all other windows are shut. (cid:127) Turn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed and select the control setting that will force outside air into your vehicle. See Climate Control System in the Index. If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way. See Engine Exhaust on page 2-27. After initially moving the shift lever out of and back into PARK (P), each additional shift cycle will advance the programming from the current mode to the next operating mode. If cycled beyond Mode 4, the vehicle will enter operating Mode 1. Disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for up to a year will not affect the programmed mode. Lockout Protection The power door locks will not work if the key is in the ignition and a door is open. You can override this feature by holding the driver’s side power door lock switch for more than three seconds. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside or with the remote keyless entry transmitter. Then get out and close the door. 2-12 (cid:127) Press the open trunk symbol on the remote keyless entry transmitter to open the trunk lid from the outside. The vehicle must be in PARK (P) in order to open the trunk. Remote Trunk Release Press the remote trunk release button located behind the glove box door to release the trunk lid from inside the vehicle. Emergency Trunk Release Handle Notice: Using the emergency trunk release handle as a tie-down or anchor point when securing items in the trunk may damage it. Use the emergency trunk release handle only to help you open the trunk lid. The shift lever must be in PARK (P), but the key does not have to be in the ignition for the remote trunk lid release button to work. The vehicle has a glow-in-the-dark emergency trunk release handle located inside the trunk on the latch. This handle will glow following exposure to light. Pull the release handle to open the trunk from the inside. 2-13 Windows {CAUTION: Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. 2-14 Power Windows The switches on the driver’s door armrest are used to control all of the windows. Each passenger door has its own window switch. Express-Down Window The driver’s window switch has an express-down feature. This switch is labeled AUTO. Tap the switch rearward and the driver’s window will open without stopping. To stop the window while it is lowering, press forward on the switch. To raise the window, press and hold the switch forward. Window Lock-Out The driver’s window controls also include a lock-out switch. Press LOCK on this control to prevent passengers from using their window switches. The driver can still control all the windows with the lock on. Press the other side of the window lock-out switch to allow passengers individual control of their windows. Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also move them from side to side. The visors also have extenders that you can pull out for added coverage. Visor Vanity Mirrors Open the cover on the top of the sun visor to expose the vanity mirror. If your vehicle has the lighted vanity mirrors, the lamps come on when you open the cover. 2-15 Theft-Deterrent Systems Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle 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. PASS-Key® II The vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key® II (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key® II is a passive theft-deterrent system. It works when the ignition key is inserted or removed from the ignition. PASS-Key® II uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that matches a decoder in the vehicle. When the PASS-Key® II system senses that the wrong key has been inserted into the ignition, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. The starter will not work and fuel will not go to the engine for about three minutes. If someone tries to start the vehicle again with the wrong key, or uses another incorrect key during this time, the vehicle will not start. This discourages someone from randomly trying keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make a match. The ignition key must be clean and dry before it is inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the engine does not start and the SECURITY warning light on the instrument panel is ﬂashing, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the key. Wait about three minutes and try again. If the vehicle still does not start, the ignition key may be faulty. Wait about three more minutes and try a spare ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-91 for information on fuse location. If the starter will not work with the spare key, the vehicle needs service. See your dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key® II. 2-16 If a key is accidentally used that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, the starter will not work. The SECURITY warning light on the instrument panel will then come on. But you do not have to wait three minutes before trying another ignition key. See your dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key® II to have a new key made. If the SECURITY warning light comes on the instrument panel while the vehicle is being driven, the engine will still be able to be started after it is turned off. The PASS-Key® II system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer. The vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key® II system when this happens. If a PASS-Key® II ignition key is lost or damaged, see your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® II to have a new key made. Also, see Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6 for more information. Starting and Operating Your Vehicle New Vehicle Break-In Notice: Your vehicle does not need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: (cid:127) Do not drive at any one speed — fast or slow — for the ﬁrst 500 miles (805 km). Do not make full-throttle starts. (cid:127) Avoid making hard stops for the ﬁrst 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings are not 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. (cid:127) Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See Towing a Trailer on page 4-38 for more information. 2-17 If your key seems stuck in LOCK and B (LOCK): This is the only position in which the ignition key can be inserted or removed. This position locks the ignition and transaxle. It is a theft-deterrent feature. Notice: you can not turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. Turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of these works, then your vehicle needs service. C (OFF): In this position the engine is off. Use the OFF position if the vehicle must be pushed or towed. D (RUN): This position is where the key returns to after the vehicle is started. This position displays some of the warning and indicator lights. E (START): This position starts the engine. A warning chime will sound when the driver’s door is opened if the ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY and the key is in the ignition. Ignition Positions With the ignition key in the ignition, the key can be turned to ﬁve different positions: A (ACCESSORY): This position lets the radio and windshield wipers operate when the engine is off. To use ACCESSORY, push in the key and turn it counterclockwise. 2-18 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) If the vehicle has Retained Accessory Power (RAP), certain features will continue to operate for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFF unless a door is opened. Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in any other position — that is a safety feature. To restart when you are already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Notice: Shifting into PARK (P) with the vehicle moving could damage the transaxle. Shift into PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped. 1. With your foot off 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. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter. 2. If your engine will not 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 not more than 15 seconds at a time. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. 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 do not, your engine might not perform properly. 2-19 Engine Coolant Heater Your vehicle may be equipped with this feature. In very cold weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You will 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. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not required. To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The cord is attached to the underside of the diagonal brace, which is located above the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter assembly. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. {CAUTION: Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a ﬁre. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps. 4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you do not, 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 dealer in the area where you will be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area. 2-20 Automatic Transaxle Operation The shift lever for the automatic transaxle is on the steering column. The ignition positions are displayed on the instrument panel cluster and will indicate the gear the vehicle is in. Maximum engine speed is limited on automatic transaxle vehicles when they are in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) to protect driveline components from improper operation. There are several different positions for the shift lever. {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. Do not 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 will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-25. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-38. PARK (P): This position locks the vehicle’s front wheels. It is the best position to use when the engine is started because the vehicle cannot move easily. 2-21 Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. The vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. The regular brakes must be fully applied before shifting from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. If the vehicle cannot be shifted out of PARK (P), increase pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down. Then move the shift lever out of PARK (P). See Shifting Out of Park (P) on page 2-26. Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage the transaxle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. To rock the vehicle back and forth in order to get it out of snow, ice, or sand without damaging the transaxle, see If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow on page 4-30. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, the engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart when the vehicle is already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when the vehicle is being towed. {CAUTION: Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is 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. Do not shift into a drive gear while your engine is running at high speed. Notice: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing may damage the transaxle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not racing when shifting your vehicle. Notice: Driving your vehicle if you notice that it is moving slowly or not shifting gears as you increase speed may damage the transaxle. Have your vehicle serviced right away. You can drive in SECOND (2) when you are driving less than 35 mph (55 km/h) and AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) for higher speeds until then. 2-22 AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( X): This position is for normal driving. If more power is needed for passing, and the vehicle is: (cid:127) Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push the accelerator pedal about halfway down. (cid:127) Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator pedal all the way down. By doing this the vehicle will shift down to the next gear and have more power. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, but it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (X). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (X): (cid:127) When driving on hilly, winding roads. (cid:127) When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between gears. (cid:127) When going down a steep hill. (cid:127) When driving in no-highway scenarios such as city streets. Notice: Driving in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km) or at speeds over 55 mph (90 km/h) may damage the transaxle. Also, shifting into SECOND (2) at speeds above 65 mph (105 km/h) can cause damage. Drive in THIRD (3) or AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) instead of SECOND (2). SECOND (2): This position gives the vehicle more power than THIRD (3) but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control the speed going down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. FIRST (1): This position gives the vehicle even more power but lower fuel economy than SECOND (2). It can be used on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle will not shift into ﬁrst gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough. Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transaxle. If you are stuck, do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill, use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place. 2-23 Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. A warning chime will sound if the parking brake is set, the ignition is on, and the shift lever is not in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts. Verify that the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off before driving. If you are towing a trailer and parking on any hill, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-38. That section shows what to do ﬁrst to keep the trailer from moving. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot and push the parking brake pedal with your left foot. When you lift your left foot, the parking brake pedal will follow it to the released position. 2-24 Shifting Into Park (P) {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. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-38. 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake with your left foot. 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by pulling the shift lever toward you and moving it up as far as it will go. 3. Turn the ignition key to OFF. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, the vehicle is in PARK (P). Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running {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. Do not leave your vehicle with the engine running. If the vehicle is left with the engine running, be sure it is in PARK (P) and the parking brake is ﬁrmly set before you leave it. After you have moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever out of PARK (P). If you can, it means that the shift lever was not fully locked into PARK (P). 2-25 Torque Lock If parking the vehicle on a hill and the transaxle is not shifted into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. It might be 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 leaving the driver’s seat. To ﬁnd out how, see Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-25. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before releasing the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, another vehicle might have to push yours a little uphill. This takes some of the pressure off the parking pawl in the transaxle, enabling the shift lever to be moved out of PARK (P). Shifting Out of Park (P) The vehicle has an automatic transaxle shiftlock control system which locks the shift lever in PARK (P) when the ignition is in the OFF position. The regular brakes have to be fully applied before the vehicle can be shifted from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See Automatic Transaxle Operation on page 2-21. If the vehicle cannot be shifted out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way up into PARK (P) as brake application is maintained. Then move the shift lever into the desired gear. If the brake pedal is held down but still cannot be shifted out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the ignition key to ACCESSORY. There is no shift interlock in this key position. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift the transaxle to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the desired gear. 5. Have the system ﬁxed as soon as possible. 2-26 Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust {CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can not see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: (cid:127) Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. (cid:127) Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. (cid:127) Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. (cid:127) Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. (cid:127) Repairs were not done correctly. (cid:127) Your vehicle or exhaust system had been modiﬁed improperly. If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: (cid:127) Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and (cid:127) Have your vehicle ﬁxed immediately. 2-27 {CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. {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. Do not 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 will not move, even when you are 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 will not move. See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-25. If you are parking on a hill and if you are pulling a trailer, also see Towing a Trailer on page 4-38. Running Your Engine While You Are Parked It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. {CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier Caution under Engine Exhaust on page 2-27. Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the climate control fan is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust — with CO — can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. See Winter Driving on page 4-26. 2-28 Mirrors Manual Rearview Mirror Adjust all the mirrors so you can see clearly when sitting in a comfortable driving position. To reduce glare from other vehicles’ headlamps, pull the lever at the bottom of the mirror, to the night position. To return the mirror to the day position, push the lever. Manual Rearview Mirror with OnStar® The vehicle may have a mirror with Onstar®. It has a lever located at the bottom between the two lamps. Pull the lever to the night position to reduce glare from other vehicles’ headlamps. Push the lever for the day position. There are two lamps located on the bottom of the mirror. Press the button located next to each lamp to turn it on or off. There are also three OnStar® buttons located at the bottom of the mirror. See your dealer for more information on the system and how to subscribe to OnStar®. See OnStar® System on page 2-31 for more information about the services OnStar® provides. 2-29 Outside Convex Mirror The passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so more can be seen from the driver’s seat. {CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes. Outside Power Mirrors The power mirror controls are located on the driver’s door armrest. To choose either the left or right outside mirror, move the selector switch located above the control pad to the left or the right. Then use the four-way arrows located on the control pad to move the mirrors in the desired direction. Adjust each mirror so you can see the side of your vehicle and the area behind it. 2-30 OnStar® System OnStar® uses global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology, wireless communications, and call centers to provide you with a wide range of safety, security, information, and convenience services. A complete OnStar® user’s guide and the terms and conditions of the OnStar® Subscription Service Agreement are included in the vehicle’s glove box literature. For more information, visit www.onstar.com or www.onstarcanada.com. Contact OnStar® at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827), or press the OnStar® button to speak to an OnStar® advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A completed Subscription Service Agreement is required prior to delivery of OnStar® services and prepaid calling minutes are also required for OnStar® Personal Calling and OnStar® Virtual Advisor use. Terms and conditions of the Subscription Service Agreement can be found at www.onstar.com or www.onstarcanada.com. OnStar® Services One of the following plans is normally included for a speciﬁc duration with each vehicle equipped with OnStar®. You can upgrade or extend your OnStar® service plan to meet your needs. 2-31 Safe and Sound Plan (cid:127) Automatic Notiﬁcation of Air Bag Deployment (cid:127) Emergency Services (cid:127) Roadside Assistance (cid:127) Stolen Vehicle Tracking (cid:127) AccidentAssist (cid:127) Remote Door Unlock/Vehicle Alert (cid:127) Remote Diagnostics (cid:127) Online Concierge Directions and Connections Plan (cid:127) All Safe and Sound Plan services (cid:127) Driving Directions (cid:127) RideAssist Information and Convenience Services Luxury and Leisure Plan (cid:127) All Directions and Connections Plan services (cid:127) Personal Concierge 2-32 OnStar® Personal Calling As an OnStar® subscriber, the Personal Calling capability is available if your hand-held cell phone is lost, forgotten, or has a low battery. It is a hands-free wireless phone that is integrated into the vehicle. Calls can be placed nationwide using simple voice commands with no additional contracts and no additional roaming charges. To ﬁnd out more about OnStar® Personal Calling, refer to the OnStar® user’s guide in the vehicle’s glove box or visit www.onstar.com or www.onstarcanada.com; or speak with an OnStar advisor by pressing the OnStar® button or by calling 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827). OnStar® Virtual Advisor Virtual Advisor is a feature of OnStar® Personal Calling that uses minutes to access up-to-date weather and traffic reports for your area, news and sports updates, stock quotes, entertainment and more. You are also able to listen and reply to your e-mail through your vehicle’s speakers. Customize your information proﬁle at www.myonstar.com. See the OnStar® user’s guide for more information. (cid:127) Storage Areas Glove Box To open the glove box, lift up on the lever. Use your door key to lock or unlock it. The glove box has a light inside. Front Storage Area Convenience Net The vehicle may have a convenience net located on the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net. It can help keep them from falling over. The net is not for larger, heavier loads. Store those in the trunk as far forward as possible. Unhook the net so that it will lie ﬂat when not in use. To use the storage area, fold down the armrest located in the center front seat. Press the latch on the front edge and pull up to access the storage area. 2-33 ✍ NOTES 2-34 Section 3 Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Overview ...............................3-4 Hazard Warning Flashers ................................3-6 Other Warning Devices ...................................3-6 Horn .............................................................3-6 Tilt Wheel .....................................................3-6 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever .........................3-7 Turn and Lane-Change Signals ........................3-7 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer ..................3-8 Flash-to-Pass .................................................3-8 Windshield Wipers ..........................................3-8 Windshield Washer .........................................3-9 Cruise Control ..............................................3-10 Exterior Lamps .............................................3-13 Headlamps on Reminder ................................3-13 Delayed Headlamps ......................................3-13 Daytime Running Lamps/Automatic Headlamp System .....................................3-14 Cornering Lamps ..........................................3-15 Interior Lamps ..............................................3-15 Instrument Panel Brightness ...........................3-15 Courtesy Lamps ...........................................3-15 Dome Lamp .................................................3-16 Entry Lighting ...............................................3-16 Delayed Entry Lighting ...................................3-16 Delayed Exit Lighting .....................................3-17 Reading Lamps ............................................3-17 Battery Run-Down Protection ..........................3-17 Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter ........................3-18 Climate Controls ............................................3-18 Dual Climate Control System ..........................3-18 Dual Automatic Climate Control System ...........3-21 Outlet Adjustment .........................................3-26 Passenger Compartment Air Filter ...................3-26 Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators ............3-28 Instrument Panel Cluster ................................3-29 Speedometer and Odometer ...........................3-30 Trip Odometer ..............................................3-30 Safety Belt Reminder Light .............................3-30 Airbag Readiness Light ..................................3-31 Charging System Light ..................................3-32 Brake System Warning Light ..........................3-32 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light .............3-33 Enhanced Traction System Warning Light .........3-34 Low Traction Light ........................................3-34 Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light ......3-35 Engine Coolant Temperature Gage ..................3-35 Tire Pressure Light .......................................3-36 3-1 Section 3 Instrument Panel Malfunction Indicator Lamp .............................3-36 Oil Pressure Light .........................................3-40 Change Engine Oil Light ................................3-40 Security Light ...............................................3-41 Cruise Control Light ......................................3-41 Low Washer Fluid Warning Light .....................3-41 Door/Trunk Ajar Warning Light ........................3-42 Service Vehicle Soon Light ............................3-42 Fuel Gage ...................................................3-42 Low Fuel Warning Light .................................3-43 Audio System(s) .............................................3-44 Setting the Time ...........................................3-44 Radio with CD ..............................................3-45 Radio with Cassette and CD ..........................3-53 Theft-Deterrent Feature ..................................3-63 Audio Steering Wheel Controls .......................3-63 Radio Reception ...........................................3-64 Care of Your Cassette Tape Player .................3-65 Care of Your CDs .........................................3-66 Care of Your CD Player ................................3-66 Fixed Mast Antenna ......................................3-66 Chime Level Adjustment ................................3-66 3-2 ✍ NOTES 3-3 Instrument Panel Overview 3-4 The main components of the instrument panel are the following: A. Exterior Lamps Control. See Exterior Lamps on page 3-13. B. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. See Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7. C. Instrument Panel Cluster. See Instrument Panel Cluster on page 3-29. D. Hazard Warning Flasher Button. See Hazard Warning Flashers on page 3-6. E. Audio Steering Wheel Controls. See Audio Steering Wheel Controls on page 3-63. F. Gear Shift Lever. See Automatic Transaxle Operation on page 2-21. G. Air Outlets. See Outlet Adjustment on page 3-26. H. Side Window Defogger Outlet. I. Hood Release. See Hood Release on page 5-11. J. Tilt Wheel Lever. See Tilt Wheel on page 3-6. K. Horn. See Horn on page 3-6. L. Audio System. See Audio System(s) on page 3-44. M. Ashtray. See Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter on page 3-18. N. Climate Control. See Dual Climate Control System on page 3-18. O. Glove Box. See Glove Box on page 2-33. P. Instrument Panel Fuse Block. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-91. 3-5 Horn Press near or on the horn symbols on your steering wheel pad to sound the horn. Tilt Wheel A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can raise the steering wheel to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle. The lever that allows you to tilt the steering wheel is located on the left side of the steering column. To tilt the wheel, hold the wheel and pull the lever. Then move the wheel to a comfortable position and release the lever to lock the wheel in place. Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning ﬂashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will ﬂash on and off. The hazard warning ﬂasher button is located on top of the steering column. Your hazard warning ﬂashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key is not in. Press the button to make the front and rear turn signal lamps ﬂash on and off. Press the button again to turn the ﬂashers off. When the hazard warning ﬂashers are on, your turn signals will not work. Other Warning Devices If you carry reﬂective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. 3-6 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever The multifunction lever located on the left side of the steering column includes the following: Turn and Lane-Change Signals (cid:127) Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer Flash-to-Pass (cid:127) Windshield Wipers (cid:127) Windshield Washer (cid:127) Cruise Control Turn and Lane-Change Signals To signal a turn, move the turn signal/multifunction lever up or down. The lever returns to its original position when the turn is completed. An arrow on the instrument panel cluster will ﬂash in the direction of the turn or lane change. To signal a lane change, raise or lower the turn signal/ multifunction lever until the arrow starts to ﬂash. Hold it there until the lane change is completed. The lever will return to its original position when released. Arrows that ﬂash rapidly when signaling for a turn or lane change, or that fail to work, may indicate a burned-out signal bulb or fuse. Other drivers will not see the signal. See Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps on page 5-48 and Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps on page 5-50 for turn signal bulb replacement procedures. Also see Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-91 for location of fuses. A chime will sound if the turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km). 3-7 (cid:127) (cid:127) Windshield Wipers To operate the windshield wipers turn the band located on the multifunction lever upward or downward. WIPER: Turn this band to control the windshield wipers.

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2005 Buick Century Owners Manual