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Press L to heat the seat cushion and seatback or {, if equipped, to ventilate the seat. Press the button once for the highest setting. With each press of the button, the seat will change to the next lower setting, and then to the off setting. The lights indicate three for the highest setting and one for the lowest. For more information, see Heated and Ventilated Front Seats on page 3‑10.


In Brief


1-9


Head Restraint Adjustment Do not drive until the head restraints for all occupants are installed and adjusted properly. To achieve a comfortable seating position, change the seatback recline angle as little as necessary while keeping the seat and the head restraint height in the proper position. For more information see Head Restraints on page 3‑2 and Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4.


Heated and Ventilated Seats


Heated and Ventilated Seat Buttons Shown,


Heated Seat Buttons Similar If available, the buttons are on the climate control panel. To operate, the ignition must be on.


Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011


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1-10


In Brief


Safety Belts


Sensing System for Passenger Airbag


Mirror Adjustment


Exterior


The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver airbags, seat‐mounted side impact airbags, and roof‐rail airbags are not affected by the passenger sensing system. The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible on the instrument panel when the vehicle is started. See Passenger Sensing System on page 3‑37 for more information.


To adjust the mirrors: 1. Turn the control knob to the


L (left) or R (right) selecting the driver or passenger mirror.


2. Push the control knob to the left,


right, up, or down to adjust the mirror.


Refer to the following sections for important information on how to use safety belts properly. . Safety Belts on page 3‑13. . How to Wear Safety Belts


Properly on page 3‑17. Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 3‑22. Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 3‑52.


Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011


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Vehicles with the memory feature can store a preferred mirror position. See “Memory Seats” under Power Seat Adjustment on page 3‑5 for more information. See Power Mirrors on page 2‑16. Manual Foldaway Mirrors Vehicles with manual folded mirrors are folded inward to prevent damage when going through an automatic car wash. To fold, pull the mirror toward the vehicle. Push the mirror outward, to return it to the original position. Automatic Dimming Feature The driver outside mirror automatically adjusts for the glare of the headlamps behind you. See Power Mirrors on page 2‑16. See Folding Mirrors on page 2‑17.


Interior Adjust this mirror for a clear view of the area behind the vehicle. Hold the mirror in the center to move it up, down, or side-to-side. To reduce headlamp glare from behind, push the tab forward for daytime and pull it for nighttime use. Vehicles with OnStar® have three control buttons at the bottom of the mirror. See your dealer for more information on the system and how to subscribe to OnStar. See the OnStar® owner's guide for more information about the services OnStar provides. See Manual Rearview Mirror on page 2‑18.


In Brief


1-11


Steering Wheel Adjustment


To adjust the steering wheel: 1. Pull the lever (A) down. 2. Move the steering wheel up


or down.


3. Pull or push the steering wheel


closer or away from you.


4. Pull the lever (A) up to lock the


steering wheel in place.


Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving.


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1-12


In Brief


Interior Lighting


Dome Lamps The interior lamps control located in the overhead console controls both the front and rear interior lamps. To operate, press the following buttons: ( : Turns the lamps off. H : Turns the lamps on when any door is opened. ' : Keeps the lamps on all the time.


Reading Lamps There are front and rear reading lamps. The front reading lamps are located in the overhead console.


Exterior Lighting


# $ : Press to turn each lamp on or off. The rear reading lamps are located in the headliner. For more information on interior lighting, see Instrument Panel Illumination Control on page 6‑5.


The exterior lamp control is located on the instrument panel on the outboard side of the steering wheel. Turn the control to the following positions: O : Turns off the exterior lamps. The knob returns to the AUTO position after it is released. Turn to off again to reactivate the AUTO mode. AUTO: Automatically turns the exterior lamps on and off, depending on outside lighting.


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The current status of the AUTO system is displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC) uplevel display. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑25. ; : Turns on the parking lamps, together with the sidemarker lamps, taillamps, license plate lamps, and instrument panel lights. 2 : Turns on the headlamps, together with the parking lamps, sidemarker lamps, taillamps, license plate lamps, and instrument panel lights. For more information, see: . Exterior Lamp Controls on


page 6‑1.


. Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)


on page 6‑3. Fog Lamps on page 6‑5.


Windshield Wiper/Washer


In Brief


1-13


The windshield wiper lever is on the side of the steering column. With the ignition in ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN, move the windshield wiper lever to select the wiper speed. 2: Fast wipes. 1: Slow wipes. & : Turn the band up for more frequent wipes or down for less frequent wipes.


9 : Turns the windshield wipers off. 3 : Briefly move the wiper lever down for a single wipe or hold down for several wipes. Windshield Washer Pull the windshield wiper lever to spray windshield washer fluid and activate the wipers. See Windshield Wiper/Washer on page 5‑3.


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1-14


In Brief


Climate Controls


The heating, cooling, and ventilation for the vehicle can be controlled with these systems.


Automatic Climate Control System A. Power B. Temperature Control C. Fan Control D. Air Delivery Mode Control


E. Recirculation F. AUTO G. Defrost H. Air Conditioning I. Rear Window Defogger


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Dual Automatic Climate Control System


In Brief


1-15


Transmission


Automatic Transmission


Driver Shift Control (DSC) Driver Shift Control (DSC) allows shifting an automatic transmission similar to a manual transmission. DSC can be enabled through the shift lever. See Manual Mode on page 9‑30.


A. Power B. Driver Temperature Control C. Defrost D. Fan Control E. Air Delivery Mode Control F. Recirculation/Automatic


Recirculation


G. Passenger Temperature Control H. AUTO


I. Rear Window Defogger J. Heated Steering Wheel K. Air Conditioning L. ZONE See Automatic Climate Control System on page 8‑1 (If Equipped) or Dual Automatic Climate Control System on page 8‑4 (If Equipped).


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1-16


In Brief


Vehicle Features


Radio(s) VOL/O : Press to turn the system on and off. Turn to increase or decrease the volume. RADIO/BAND: Press to choose between FM, AM, or XM™, if equipped. TUNE: Turn to select radio stations. g : Press to seek the previous station or track. l : Press to seek the next station or track. Buttons 1‐6: Press to save and select favorite stations INFO: Press to show available information about the current station or track. For more information about these and other radio features, see Operation on page 7‑7.


Storing a Favorite Station Stations from all bands can be stored in the favorite lists in any order. Up to six stations can be stored in each favorite page and the number of available favorite pages can be set. To store the station to a position in the list, press the corresponding numeric button 1-6 until the station can be heard again. For more information, see “Storing and Retrieving Favorites” in AM-FM Radio on page 7‑12. Setting the Clock


Adjusting the Time 1. Press the CONFIG button and select Time Settings, or press H.


2. Select Set Time.


3. Turn the Menu knob to adjust


the highlighted number.


4. Press the SELECT button to


select the next number.


5. To save the time and return to the Time Settings menu, press the BACK button at any time or press the SELECT button after adjusting the minutes.


Setting the 12/24 Hour Format 1. Press the CONFIG button and select Time Settings, or press H.


2. Highlight 12/24 Hour Format. 3. Press the SELECT button to select the 12 hour or 24 hour display format.


For detailed instructions on setting the clock, see Clock (Without Date Display) on page 5‑5 or Clock (With Date Display) on page 5‑6.


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Portable Audio Devices This vehicle has a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) auxiliary input and a USB port located in the center console. External devices such as iPods®, laptop computers, MP3 players, CD changers, and USB storage devices may be connected, depending on the audio system. For more information, see Auxiliary Devices (Radio with CD) on page 7‑31 or Auxiliary Devices (Radio with CD/DVD and MEM) on page 7‑34.


In Brief


1-17


Bluetooth® The Bluetooth® system allows users with a Bluetooth-enabled cell phone to make and receive hands-free calls using the vehicle audio system, microphone, and controls. The Bluetooth-enabled cell phone must be paired with the in-vehicle Bluetooth system before it can be used in the vehicle. Not all phones will support all functions. See Bluetooth (Overview) on page 7‑46 or Bluetooth (Infotainment Controls) on page 7‑48 or Bluetooth (Voice Recognition) on page 7‑53.


Satellite Radio Vehicles with an XM™ Satellite Radio tuner and a valid XM Satellite Radio subscription can receive XM programming. XM Satellite Radio Service XM is a satellite radio service based in the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces. XM Satellite Radio has a wide variety of programming and commercial-free music, coast to coast, and in digital-quality sound. A fee is required to receive the XM service. For more information refer to: . www.xmradio.com or call


1-800-929-2100 (U.S.). . www.xmradio.ca or call


1-877-438-9677 (Canada).


For more information, see Satellite Radio on page 7‑15.


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1-18


In Brief


Steering Wheel Controls


For vehicles with audio steering wheel controls, some audio controls can be adjusted at the steering wheel. b g : Press to interact with the available Bluetooth, OnStar, or navigation system.


$ i : Press to silence the vehicle speakers only. Press again to turn the sound on. For vehicles with OnStar or Bluetooth systems, press to reject an incoming call, or to end a current call. _ SRC ^ : Turn _ or ^ to select a radio band or audio source. Turn _ or ^ to select the next or previous favorite radio station, CD, DVD track/chapter (with navigation), or MP3 track. Press SRC to change between radio and CD or DVD.


+ x −: Press + to increase or − to decrease the volume. For more information, see Steering Wheel Controls on page 5‑2.


Cruise Control


The cruise control buttons are located on the steering wheel. 5 : Press to turn the cruise control system on and off. An indicator light will turn on or off in the instrument panel cluster.


Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011


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\ : Press to disengage cruise control without erasing the set speed from memory. RES/+ : Move the thumbwheel up to make the vehicle resume to a previously set speed or to accelerate. SET/− : Move the thumbwheel down to set the speed and activate cruise control or make the vehicle decelerate. See Cruise Control on page 9‑39.


Navigation System If the vehicle has a navigation system, there is a separate Navigation System Manual that includes information on the radio, audio players, and navigation system.


The navigation system provides detailed maps of most major freeways and roads. After a destination has been set, the system provides turn-by-turn instructions for reaching the destination. In addition, the system can help locate a variety of points of interest (POIs), such as banks, airports, restaurants, and more. See the Navigation System Manual for more information.


Driver Information Center (DIC) The DIC display is located in the center of the instrument panel cluster. It shows the status of many vehicle systems. The controls for the DIC are located on the turn signal lever.


In Brief


1-19


A. SET/CLR: Press to set or clear the menu item when it is displayed.


B. w x: Use the thumbwheel to scroll through the items in each menu.


C. MENU: Press to get to the


Trip/Fuel Menu and the Vehicle Information Menu. This button is also used to return to or exit the last screen displayed on the DIC.


For more information, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑25.


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1-20


In Brief


Vehicle Personalization Some vehicle features can be programmed by using the audio system controls. These features include: . Climate and Air Quality . Comfort and Convenience . Collision/Detection Systems


Language Lighting


. Power Door Locks . Remote Lock/Unlock/Start See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39.


Power Outlets The accessory power outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone or MP3 player. There are two accessory power outlets. One is located under the armrest inside the center console storage and the other is on the rear of the center floor console. Remove the cover to access and replace when not in use. See Power Outlets on page 5‑7.


Universal Remote System


This system provides a way to replace up to three remote control transmitters used to activate devices such as garage door openers, security systems, and home automation devices. Read the instructions completely before attempting to program the Universal Home Remote. Because of the steps involved, it may be helpful to have another person available to assist you with programming the Universal Home Remote. See Universal Remote System on page 5‑45.


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Sunroof


On vehicles with a sunroof, the switch is located on the overhead console. The sunroof only operates when the ignition is in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in Retained Accessory Power (RAP). See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑24


In Brief


1-21


To express-open the sunshade from the closed position, fully press and release the rear of the switch (C). The sunshade opens automatically. To stop the sunshade partway, press the switch a second time. To express-close the sunshade fully press and release the front of the switch (D). The sunshade closes automatically. To stop the sunshade partway, press the switch a second time. Notice: Forcing the sunshade forward of the sliding glass panel may cause damage and the sunroof may not operate properly. Always close the glass panel before closing the sunshade. The sunroof glass panel cannot be opened or closed if the vehicle has an electrical failure. See Sunroof on page 2‑21.


Vent: The sunroof has an express-vent open feature. From the closed position, press the rear of the sunroof switch (B) to the first detent to vent the sunroof. To close the sunroof, press the front of the sunroof switch (A) to the second detent. Express-open/Express-close: To express-open the sunroof from the closed or vent position, fully press and release the rear of the switch (B). The sunroof opens automatically. To stop the sunroof partway, press the switch a second time. To express-close the sunroof, fully press and release the front of the switch (A). The sunroof closes automatically. To stop the sunroof partway, press the switch a second time. If the sunshade is closed, it opens automatically with the sunroof but can also be express-opened/ express-closed by using the sunshade control (C) or (D). The sunshade cannot be fully closed with the sunroof open.


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1-22


In Brief


Performance and Maintenance


Traction Control System (TCS) The traction control system limits wheel spin. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started.


To turn off traction control, press and release g located on the console to the right of the shifter. i illuminates and the appropriate DIC message is displayed. See Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator/ Warning Light on page 5‑22. . Press and release the button


again to turn on traction control. For more information, see Traction Control System (TCS) on page 9‑36.


Electronic Stability Control (ESC) The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started.


To turn off both traction control and ESC, press and hold g, located on the console to the right of the shifter, until g illuminates and the appropriate DIC message is displayed. See Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator/Warning Light on page 5‑22.


. Press and release the button to


turn on both systems.


For more information, see Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on page 9‑37.


Tire Pressure Monitor This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).


The TPMS warning light alerts you to a significant loss in pressure of one of the vehicle's tires. If the warning light comes on, stop as soon as possible and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. The warning light will remain on until the tire pressure is corrected. During cooler conditions, the low tire pressure warning light may appear when the vehicle is first started and then turn off. This may be an early


Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011


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indicator that the tire pressures are getting low and the tires need to be inflated to the proper pressure. The TPMS does not replace normal monthly tire maintenance. It is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressures. See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 10‑56.


Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit This vehicle may come with a jack and spare tire or a tire sealant and compressor kit. The kit can be used to temporarily seal small punctures in the tread area of the tire. See Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit on page 10‑72 for complete operating information. If the vehicle came with a jack and spare tire, see If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑70.


Engine Oil Life System The engine oil life system calculates engine oil life based on vehicle use and displays the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message when it is time to change the engine oil and filter. The oil life system should be reset to 100% only following an oil change.


Resetting the Oil Life System 1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with


the engine off.


2. Press the DIC menu button on


the turn signal lever to enter the Vehicle Information Menu. Use the thumbwheel to scroll through the menu items until you reach REMAINING OIL LIFE. 3. Press the SET/CLR button to


reset the oil life at 100%.


4. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. See Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑13.


In Brief


1-23


Driving for Better Fuel Economy Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here are some driving tips to get the best fuel economy possible. . Avoid fast starts and accelerate


smoothly.


. Brake gradually and avoid


abrupt stops.


. Avoid idling the engine for long


periods of time.


. When road and weather


conditions are appropriate, use cruise control.


. Always follow posted speed


limits or drive more slowly when conditions require.


. Keep vehicle tires properly


inflated.


. Combine several trips into a


single trip.


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1-24


In Brief


. Replace the vehicle's tires with


the same TPC Spec number molded into the tire's sidewall near the size. Follow recommended scheduled maintenance.


Roadside Assistance Program U.S.: 1-800-252-1112
TTY Users (U.S.): 1-888-889-2438
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
Mexico: 01-800-466-0818
As the owner of a new Buick, you are automatically enrolled in the Roadside Assistance program. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8
or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) on page 13‑10 for more information.


Roadside Service and OnStar (U.S. and Canada) If you have an active OnStar subscription, press the Q button and the current GPS location will be sent to an OnStar Advisor who will assess your problem, contact Roadside Assistance, and relay your exact location to get the help you need.


Online Owner Center (U.S. and Canada) The Online Owner Center is a complimentary service that includes online service reminders, vehicle maintenance tips, online owner manual, special privileges, and more. Sign up today at: www.buickownercenter.com (U.S.) or www.gm.ca (Canada).


OnStar®


For vehicles with an active OnStar subscription, OnStar uses several innovative technologies and live Advisors to provide a wide range of safety, security, navigation, diagnostics, and calling services.


Automatic Crash Response In a crash, built‐in sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor who is immediately connected to the vehicle to see if you need help.


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How OnStar Service Works Q : Push this blue button to connect to a specially trained OnStar Advisor to verify your account information and to answer questions. ] : Push this red emergency button to get priority help from specially trained OnStar Emergency Advisors. X : Push this button for hands‐free, voice‐activated calling and to give voice commands for Hands‐Free Calling and Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation. Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Crisis Assist, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock, Roadside Assistance, Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation, and Hands‐Free Calling are available on most vehicles.


Not all OnStar services are available on all vehicles. For more information, see the OnStar Owner's Guide; visit www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada); contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1‐888‐466‐7827) or TTY 1‐877‐248‐2080; or push the Q button to speak with an OnStar Advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For a full description of OnStar services and system limitations, see the OnStar Owner's Guide in the glove box. OnStar service is subject to the OnStar Terms and Conditions included in the OnStar Glove Box Kit. OnStar service requires wireless communication networks and the Global Positioning System (GPS)


In Brief


1-25


satellite network. Not all OnStar services are available everywhere or on all vehicles at all times. OnStar service can’t work unless the vehicle is in a place where OnStar has an agreement with a wireless service provider for service in that area, and the wireless service provider has coverage, network capacity, reception, and technology compatible with OnStar service. Service involving location information about the vehicle can’t work unless GPS signals are available, unobstructed, and compatible with the OnStar hardware. The vehicle has to have a working electrical system and adequate battery power for the OnStar equipment to operate.


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1-26


In Brief


OnStar service may not work if the OnStar equipment isn’t properly installed or you haven’t maintained it and the vehicle is in good working order and in compliance with all government regulations. If you try to add, connect, or modify any equipment or software in the vehicle, OnStar service may not work. Other problems OnStar can’t control may prevent service to you, such as hills, tall buildings, tunnels, weather, electrical system design and architecture of the vehicle, damage to important parts of the vehicle in a crash, or wireless phone network congestion or jamming. See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑20 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.


OnStar Steering Wheel Controls This vehicle may have a Talk/Mute button that can be used to interact with OnStar Hands-Free calling. See Steering Wheel Controls on page 5‑2 for more information. On some vehicles, the Talk button can be used to dial numbers into voice mail systems, or to dial phone extensions. See the OnStar Owner's Guide for more information.


Your Responsibility Increase the volume of the radio if the OnStar Advisor cannot be heard. If the light next to the OnStar buttons is red, the system may not be functioning properly. Push the Q button and request a vehicle diagnostic check. If the light appears clear (no light appears), your OnStar subscription has expired and all services have been deactivated. Push the Q button to confirm that the OnStar equipment is active.


Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011


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Keys, Doors and Windows


Keys and Locks


Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)


System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3


Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)


System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Safety Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12


Keys, Doors and Windows


2-1


Doors


Interior Mirrors


Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12


Manual Rearview Mirror . . . . . . 2-18


Vehicle Security


Windows


Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Rear Window Sunshade . . . . . 2-20


Roof


Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21


Vehicle Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Anti-Theft Alarm System . . . . . 2-14
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Immobilizer Operation


(Key Access) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14


Immobilizer Operation


(Keyless Access) . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15


Exterior Mirrors


Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Park Tilt Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17


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2-2


Keys, Doors and Windows


Keys and Locks


Keys


{ WARNING


Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. Children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keys in the ignition and children could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.


{ WARNING


Leaving children in a vehicle with the keyless access transmitter is dangerous for many reasons, children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keyless access transmitter in the vehicle and they could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keyless access transmitter in a vehicle with children.


The key that is part of the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter can be used for the ignition and all locks if the vehicle is a key access vehicle. If the vehicle has the keyless ignition, the key can be used for the locks.


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Keys, Doors and Windows


2-3


Notice: If the keys get locked in the vehicle, it may have to be damaged to get them out. Always carry a spare key. If you are locked out of the vehicle, see Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8
or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) on page 13‑10.


Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑20 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.


If there is a decrease in the RKE operating range: . Check the distance.


The transmitter may be too far from the vehicle.


. Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal.


. Check the transmitter's battery.


See “Battery Replacement” later in this section. If the transmitter is still not working correctly, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service.


Press the button on the RKE transmitter to extend the key. Press the button and the key blade to retract the key. See your dealer if a new key is needed.


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2-4


Keys, Doors and Windows


Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation The transmitter functions will work up to 20 m (65 ft) away from the vehicle. On vehicles with remote start the distance will be greater. Keep in mind that other conditions, such as those previously stated, can impact the performance of the transmitter.


RKE without Remote Start Shown


Q (Lock): Press to lock all doors. The turn signal indicators may flash and/or the horn may sound to indicate locking, see “Locking Feedback” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39. If the driver door is open when Q is pressed, all doors lock except the driver door, if enabled through the vehicle personalization. If the passenger door is open when Q is pressed, all doors lock. Pressing Q may also arm the theft-deterrent system. See Anti-Theft Alarm System on page 2‑14. K (Unlock): Press to unlock the driver door or all doors. See “Door Unlock Options” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39. The turn signal indicators may flash and/or the horn may sound to indicate unlocking.


See “Unlock Feedback” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39. Pressing K will disarm the theft-deterrent system. See Anti-Theft Alarm System on page 2‑14. Memory seat positions may be recalled when unlocking the vehicle. See “Memory Seats” under Power Seat Adjustment on page 3‑5 and “Remote Recall” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39
for more information. V (Remote Trunk Release): Press and hold to unlock the trunk. 7 (Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): Press and release one time to locate the vehicle. The exterior lamps flash and the horn chirps. Press and hold 7 for at least two seconds to sound the panic alarm. The horn sounds and the turn signals flash until 7 is pressed again or the vehicle is started.


Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011


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Keys, Doors and Windows


2-5


/ (Remote Vehicle Start): For vehicles with this feature, press Q and then press and hold / within five seconds to start the engine from outside the vehicle using the RKE transmitter. See Remote Vehicle Start on page 2‑8 for additional information. Keyless Access Operation Some vehicles have a keyless access system that lets you lock and unlock the doors and access the trunk without removing the RKE transmitter from your pocket, purse, briefcase, etc. The RKE transmitter should be within 1 m (3 ft) of the door or trunk being opened.


Keyless Unlocking With the RKE transmitter within 1 m (3 ft), approach the front door and pull the handle to unlock and open the door. If the transmitter is recognized, the door will unlock and open. Entering any door other than the driver door will always cause all of the doors to unlock. This is not customizable. To customize which doors unlock when the driver door is opened, see “Door Unlock Options” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39.


Lock Sensor


When all doors are closed and the ignition is off, the vehicle can be locked by pressing this area on the door handle. This feature will be available for several minutes after the vehicle has been turned off.


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Keys, Doors and Windows


Keyless Trunk Opening Lift up on the touch pad located above the license plate to open the trunk if the RKE transmitter is within range. Programming Transmitters to the Vehicle Only RKE transmitters programmed to the vehicle will work. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased and programmed through your dealer. The vehicle can be reprogrammed so that lost or stolen transmitters no longer work. Any remaining transmitters will need to be reprogrammed. Each vehicle can have up to five transmitters matched to it.


Programming with a Recognized Transmitter (Keyless Access Vehicles Only) A new transmitter can be programmed to the vehicle when there is one recognized transmitter. To program, the vehicle must be off and all of the transmitters, both currently recognized and new, must be with you. 1. Place the recognized


2.


transmitter(s) in the cupholder. Insert the vehicle key of the new transmitter into the key lock cylinder located on the outside of the driver door and turn the key to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. The Driver Information Center (DIC) displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4 or 5.


3. Place the new transmitter into the transmitter pocket. The transmitter pocket is located inside the center console storage area under the cupholder. The cupholder will need to be pulled out to access the transmitter pocket.


4. Press the ignition. When the


transmitter is learned, the DIC will show that it is ready to program the next transmitter.


5. Remove the transmitter from the transmitter pocket and press K. To program additional transmitters, repeat Steps 3
through 5. When all additional transmitters are programmed, press and hold the ignition for 10 seconds to exit programming mode.


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Programming without a Recognized Transmitter (Keyless Access Vehicles Only) If there are no currently recognized transmitters available, follow this procedure to program up to five transmitters. This feature is not available in Canada. This procedure will take approximately 30 minutes to complete. The vehicle must be off and all of the transmitters you wish to program must be with you. 1.


Insert the vehicle key of the transmitter into the key lock cylinder located on the outside of the driver door and turn the key to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. The Driver Information Center (DIC) displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.


2. Wait for 10 minutes until the


DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN and then press the ignition. The DIC displays will again show REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.


3. Repeat Step 2 two additional times. After the third time all previously known transmitters will no longer work with the vehicle. Remaining transmitters can be relearned during the next steps. The DIC display should now show READY FOR REMOTE # 1.


4. Place the new transmitter into the transmitter pocket. The transmitter pocket is located inside the center console storage area under the cupholder. The cupholder will need to be pulled out to access the transmitter pocket.


5. Press the ignition. When the transmitter is learned the DIC will show that it is ready to program the next transmitter.


6. Remove the transmitter from the transmitter pocket and press K. To program additional transmitters, repeat Steps 4
through 6. When all additional transmitters are programmed, press and hold the ignition for 10 seconds to exit programming mode.


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Starting the Vehicle with a Low Transmitter Battery If the transmitter battery is weak, the DIC may display NO REMOTE DETECTED when you try to start the vehicle. The REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY message may also be displayed at this time.


To start the vehicle: 1. Remove the cupholder from the


center console storage area.


2. Place the transmitter in the transmitter pocket with the buttons facing up.


3. With the vehicle in P (Park) or


N (Neutral), press the brake pedal and the ignition control. See Starting the Engine on page 9‑20 for additional information about the vehicle's keyless ignition with push start. Replace the transmitter battery as soon as possible. Battery Replacement Replace the battery if the REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY message displays in the DIC. See “Replace Battery in Remote Key” under Key and Lock Messages on page 5‑36. The battery is not rechargeable. To replace the battery: 1. Push the button on the


transmitter to extend the key. 2. Remove the battery cover by


prying it with a finger.


3. Remove the battery by pushing


on the battery and sliding it toward the keyblade.


4.


Insert the new battery, positive side facing up. Push the battery down until it is held in place. Replace with a CR2032 or equivalent battery.


5. Snap the battery cover back on


to the transmitter.


Remote Vehicle Start If available, this feature allows the engine to be started from outside the vehicle. The / button will be on the RKE transmitter if the vehicle has remote start. Laws in some local communities may restrict the use of remote starters. For example, some laws may require a person using remote start to have the vehicle in view. Check local regulations for any requirements.


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Starting the Engine Using Remote Start To start the engine using the remote start feature: 1. Aim the Remote Keyless Entry


transmitter at the vehicle.


2. Press Q. 3.


Immediately after completing Step 2, press and hold / until the turn signal lamps flash, or for about 2 seconds if the vehicle is not in view. Once the vehicle is started, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on as long as the engine is running.


Turn the ignition to ON/RUN (key access), or select the ON/RUN/START ignition position (keyless access), to drive the vehicle.


The engine will shut off after 10 minutes unless a time extension is done or the ignition is put in ON/RUN (key access) or ON/RUN/START (keyless access). Vehicles with an automatic climate control system will default to a heating or cooling mode depending on the outside temperature during a remote start. When the key is turned to ON/RUN (key access), or the ON/RUN/START ignition position is selected (keyless access), the climate control system will turn on at the setting the vehicle was set to when the vehicle was last turned off. Vehicles with heated or heated and ventilated front seats can have this feature turn on automatically during a remote start. See “Remote Start Heated Seats” and “Remote Start Vented Seats” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39
for more information.


Extending Engine Run Time For a 10-minute extension, repeat Steps 1 and 2 while the engine is still running. The remote start can only be extended once. When the remote start is extended, the second 10 minutes will start immediately. For example, if the vehicle has been running for five minutes, and 10 minutes are added, the engine will run for a total of 15 minutes. A maximum of two remote starts or remote start attempts are allowed between ignition cycles. The vehicle's ignition must be turned on and then back off before the remote start procedure can be used again.


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Canceling a Remote Start To cancel a remote start, do any of the following: . Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press and hold / until the parking lamps turn off. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. Turn the vehicle on and then off.


Conditions in Which Remote Start Will Not Work The remote start will not operate if:


The key is in the ignition (key access) or the ignition is in any position other than OFF (keyless access).


The transmitter is in the vehicle (keyless access). The hood is not closed. The hazard warning flashers are on. There is an emission control system malfunction. The engine coolant temperature is too high. The oil pressure is low. Two remote vehicle starts have already been used. The vehicle is not in P (Park).


Door Locks


{ WARNING Unlocked doors can be dangerous.


. Passengers, especially


children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear safety belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven.


(Continued)


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WARNING (Continued)


. 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 the vehicle whenever leaving it.


. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when slowing or stopping the vehicle. Lock the doors to help prevent this from happening.


To lock and unlock the door, use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or the key from the outside and the door lock knob or switch from the inside. From inside the vehicle with the doors locked, pull once on the door handle to unlock it, and a second time to open it. Manually locking the driver door also automatically locks all other doors. For more information see: . Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)


System Operation on page 2‑4.


. Power Door Locks on page 2‑11. . Vehicle Personalization on


page 5‑39.


Power Door Locks


K (Unlock): Press to unlock all doors. Q (Lock): Press to lock all doors. See “Power Door Locks” in Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39.


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Delayed Locking When locking the doors with the power lock switch and a door is open, the doors will lock five seconds after the last door is closed. You will hear three chimes to signal that the delayed locking feature is in use. Pressing the power lock switch twice or the lock button on the RKE transmitter twice will override the delayed locking feature and immediately lock all the doors. This feature will not operate if the key is in the ignition. This feature can be programmed by using the Driver Information Center (DIC). See “Delayed Door Lock” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39.


Safety Locks


Doors


Trunk


{ WARNING


Exhaust gases can enter the vehicle if it is driven with the liftgate, trunk/hatch open, or with any objects that pass through the seal between the body and the trunk/hatch or liftgate. Engine exhaust contains Carbon Monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death.


(Continued)


Press the button on the driver door armrest to activate the safety locks on the passenger rear doors. This switch also disables the rear power windows. Once activated, the light, located on the switch, illuminates and goes out when deactivated. If the light flashes, the feature may not be working properly.


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WARNING (Continued)


If the vehicle must be driven with the liftgate, or trunk/hatch open:


. Close all of the windows. . Fully open the air outlets


on or under the instrument panel.


. Adjust the Climate Control


system to a setting that brings in only outside air and set the fan speed to the highest setting. See Climate Control System in the Index.


. If the vehicle has a power liftgate, disable the power liftgate function.


For more information about carbon monoxide, see Engine Exhaust on page 9‑27.


Remote Trunk Release To open the trunk from the outside the vehicle, press V on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, or press the touchpad above the license plate. Emergency Trunk Release Handle Notice: Do not use the emergency trunk release handle as a tie-down or anchor point when securing items in the trunk as it could damage the handle. The emergency trunk release handle is only intended to aid a person trapped in a latched trunk, enabling them to open the trunk from the inside.


There is an emergency trunk release handle located inside the trunk on the trunk latch. On some vehicles, the release handle can be accessed by folding the rear seat center seatback. See Rear Seats on page 3‑11. Pull the release handle to open the trunk from the inside.


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Keys, Doors and Windows


Vehicle Security This vehicle has theft-deterrent features; however, they do not make it impossible to steal.


Anti-Theft Alarm System This vehicle has an anti-theft alarm system. Arming the System To arm the system, press Q on the RKE transmitter. The alarm automatically arms after about 30 seconds. The security light, located on the instrument panel, flashes. Press V on the RKE transmitter to open the trunk without setting off the alarm. The system rearms when the trunk is closed.


Disarming the System To disarm the system, do one of the following: . Press K on the RKE transmitter. . Approach the vehicle with


the RKE transmitter (keyless access).


. Start the engine. The alarm automatically disarms. How to Detect a Tamper Condition If K is pressed and the horn sounds, an attempted break-in has occurred while the system was armed. If the alarm has been activated, the THEFT ATTEMPTED message will appear on the DIC. See Key and Lock Messages on page 5‑36 for additional information.


Immobilizer See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑20 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.


Immobilizer Operation (Key Access) This vehicle has a passive theft-deterrent system. The system does not have to be manually armed or disarmed. The vehicle is automatically immobilized when the key is removed from the ignition. The system is automatically disarmed when the vehicle is started with the correct key.


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The key uses a transponder that matches an immobilizer control unit in the vehicle and automatically disarms the system. Only the correct key starts the vehicle. The vehicle may not start if the key is damaged.


The security light, located in the instrument panel cluster, comes on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system. When trying to start the vehicle, the security light comes on briefly when the ignition is turned on.


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If the engine does not start and the security light stays on, there is a problem with the system. Turn the ignition off and try again. If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged or the light continues to stay on, try another ignition key. If the engine still does not start with the other key, the vehicle needs service. If the vehicle does start, the first key may be damaged. See your dealer who can service the theft-deterrent system and have a new key made. Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft-deterrent system in the vehicle.


Immobilizer Operation (Keyless Access) This vehicle has a passive theft-deterrent system. The system does not have to be manually armed or disarmed. The vehicle is automatically immobilized when the transmitter leaves the vehicle. The immobilization system is disarmed when the ignition button is pushed in and a valid transmitter is found in the vehicle.


The security light, located in the instrument panel cluster, comes on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system.


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The system has one or more transmitters that are matched to an immobilizer control unit in your vehicle. Only a correctly matched transmitter will start the vehicle. If the transmitter is ever damaged, you may not be able to start your vehicle. When trying to start the vehicle, the security light comes on briefly when the ignition is turned on. If the engine does not start and the security light stays on, there is a problem with the system. Turn the ignition off and try again.


If the RKE appears to be undamaged, try another transmitter. Or, you may try placing the transmitter in the transmitter pocket located in the center console. See “No Remote Detected” under Key and Lock Messages on page 5‑36. If the engine does not start with the other transmitter or when the transmitter is on the pocket in the center console, your vehicle needs service. See your dealer who can service the theft-deterrent system and have a new transmitter programmed to the vehicle. Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft-deterrent system in the vehicle.


Exterior Mirrors


Power Mirrors


To adjust the mirrors: 1. Turn the control knob to the


L (left) or R (right) selecting the driver or passenger mirror.


2. Push the control knob to the left,


right, up, or down to adjust the mirror.


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Vehicles with the memory feature can store a preferred mirror position. See “Memory Seats” under Power Seat Adjustment on page 3‑5 for more information.


Folding Mirrors


Manual Foldaway Mirrors The mirrors on vehicles with manual folded mirrors are folded inward to prevent damage when going through an automatic car wash. To fold, pull the mirror toward the vehicle. Push the mirror outward to return it to the original position. Automatic Dimming Feature The driver outside mirror automatically adjusts for the glare of the headlamps behind you.


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Turn Signal Indicator The vehicle may have a turn signal indicator lamp built into the mirror housing. The turn signal lamp flashes with the use of the vehicle's turn signal and hazard flashers.


Heated Mirrors For vehicles with heated mirrors: < (Rear Window Defogger): Press to heat the mirrors. See “Rear Window Defogger” under Automatic Climate Control System on page 8‑1 for more information.


Park Tilt Mirrors If the vehicle is equipped with memory mirrors, there is an option to have the mirrors tilt down, when in R (Reverse), to more easily see the ground near the vehicle. When the vehicle is shifted to R (Reverse), both the driver and passenger mirrors will tilt downward. They will return to their previous position when the vehicle is shifted out of R (Reverse), the ignition is turned to OFF, or the vehicle is left in R (Reverse) for an extended period of time. This feature can be turned on or off. See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑39.


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Interior Mirrors


Windows


Manual Rearview Mirror Adjust the inside rearview mirror for a clear view of the area behind your vehicle. To avoid glare of the headlamps from behind, push the tab forward for daytime and pull it for nighttime use. Vehicles with OnStar® have three control buttons at the bottom of the mirror. See your dealer for more information about OnStar and how to subscribe to it. See the OnStar Owner's Guide for more information about the services OnStar provides.


{ WARNING 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.


The vehicle aerodynamics are designed to improve fuel economy performance. This may result in a pulsing sound when either rear window is down and the front windows are up. To reduce the sound, open either a front window or the sunroof (if equipped).


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The switches work when the ignition is in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in Retained Accessory Power (RAP). See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑24. Express Window Operation Windows with an express-up or down feature allow the front windows to be lowered or raised without holding the switch. Rear windows only have express-down. Pull a window switch up or push it down all the way, release it, and the window goes down or up automatically. Stop the window by pushing or pulling the switch.


Rear Window Lockout The rear window lockout button is on the driver door. Press v to disable the rear window controls. The light on the button comes on indicating the feature is in use. The rear windows can still be raised or lowered using the driver window switches when the lockout feature is active. To restore power to the rear windows, press the button again. The light on the button goes out. If the light flashes, the feature may not be working properly. This switch also activates the safety locks. See Safety Locks on page 2‑12.


Power Windows


The power window switches located on the driver door control all four windows. The passenger doors have a window switch that controls that window. Push the switch down to open the window. Pull the front of the switch up to close it.


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Programming the Power Windows If the battery on the vehicle has been recharged, disconnected, or is not working, you will need to reprogram each front power window for the express-up feature to work. Before reprogramming, replace or recharge the vehicle's battery. To program each front window: 1. With the ignition in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in Retained Accessory Power (RAP), close all doors.


2. Press and hold the power


window switch until the window is fully open.


3. Pull the power window switch up


until the window is fully closed. 4. Continue holding the switch up for approximately two seconds after the window is completely closed.


The window is now reprogrammed. Repeat the process for the other windows.


Sun Visors


Pull the sun visor down to block glare. Detach the sun visor from the center mount to pivot to the side window, or to extend along the rod, if available.


Rear Window Sunshade On vehicles with a rear window sunshade, the switch is on the console to the right of the shifter. The sunshade only operates when the ignition is in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY. To open the sunshade, press and release the switch. The sunshade will fully extend. To close the sunshade, press and release the switch again. The sunshade will fully close. If the vehicle is shifted into R (Reverse) when the sunshade is extended, it will automatically close.


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Roof


Sunroof


On vehicles with a sunroof, the switch is located on the overhead console.


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The sunroof only operates when the ignition is in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in Retained Accessory Power (RAP). See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑24. Vent The sunroof has an express-vent open feature. From the closed position, press the rear of the sunroof switch (B) to the first detent to vent the sunroof. To close the sunroof, press the front of the sunroof switch (A) to the second detent.


Express-Open/Express-Close To express-open the sunroof from the closed or vent position, fully

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