1994 Buick Park Avenue Owners Manual

Park Avenue

The 1994 Buick Park Avenue

Owner's Manual

Litho in USA Part No. 25609656 B First Edition

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1993 All Rights Reserved

We support voluntary technician certification.

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

Nacmnal lnstllule for

AUTOMOTIVE

SERVICE

EXCELLENCE

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux proprietaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en francais chez votre concessionaire ou au DGN Marketing Services Ltd., 1500 Bonhill Rd., Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7.

GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem, Buick, and the Buick Emblem are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Buick Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your Buick, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.

innovator. Buick engineers developed the “valve-in-head” engine, a light, powerful and reliable engine which would eventually influence the entire automotive industry. William C. Durant was instrumental in promoting Buicks across the country using his Durant-Dort Carriage Co. outlets and salespeople as the nucleus of a giant distribution system. He knew the Buick as a “self-seller”. If automobiles could be this good, he thought, maybe it was time to switch from the horse and buggy business to automobiles.

At the 1905, New York Auto Show, Durant took orders for 1,000 Buicks before the company had built 40. On Buick’s success, Durant created a holding company, September 16, 1908. He called it General Motors.

William C . (Billy) Durant

Walter Marr and Thomas Buick Buick’s chief engineer, Walter L. Marr (left), and Thomas D. Buick, son of founder David Dunbar Buick, drove the first Flint Buick in a successful Flint-Detroit round trip in July 1904. David Buick was building gasoline engines by 1899, and Man; his engineer, apparently built the first auto to be called a Buick in 1900. However, Buick traditionally dates its beginnings to 1903. That was the year the company was reorganized, refinanced and moved from Detroit to Flint. Buick has always been a product

Durant also created a racing team that won 500 racing trophies in 1909 and 1910, including successes at Indianapolis two years before the Indy 500 began. The success of Buick engines was visible not only on the race track, but in endurance tests across the country and around the world. Buick was the only car to complete a 1,000-mile Chicago-to-New York race in 1906. And a Buick was the first car to travel across South America, driven from Buenos Aires, Argentina, over the Andes to Santiago, Chile in 19 14.

Buick drew plenty of attention because it could climb hills and run through mud like no other car. Buick’s endurance and reliability were world famous. During World War I, Buick built Liberty aircraft engines as well as Red Cross ambulances so successful that one Buick ambulance was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French government. As a builder of premier automobiles, Buick was hard hit by the Great Depression. However, new General Manager, Harlow H. Curtice created popular new models including the Special and the Roadmaster. Buick sales soon flourished.

191 I Model 21 Touring Car on Buick’s Test Hill

First Buick Factory

In World War 11, Buick built aircraft engines, tanks and other military hardware. This post-war period brought great styling and engineering changes which resulted in increased sales. The torque converter automatic transmission, Dynaflow, was introduced in the 1948 Roadmaster. Buick’s famous “portholes” came along in 1949.

A high-compression V-8 engine was introduced in 1953. And Buick’s famous vertical pillar “toothy” grille, (introduced in 1942), became more massive in the post-war era.

. , .

. . . ., . . , ., .. . .. . ,

I949 Roadmaster

1953 Skylark Motor Trend magazine named the 1962 Buick Special, “Car of the Year”. The first production V-6 engine was used in the Special.

/ 962 Buick Special Built inside the walls of the old buildings in Buick’s former Flint complex, which formed the cornerstone of General Motors, Buick City, is a state-of-the-art assembly facility with more than 200 robots and other high-tech equipment. It was completed in the fall of 1985. Buicks are, and will continue to be, premium American motorcars with smooth power, high performance, rich detail and comfortable accommodation.

Ed Mertz, General Manager, Buick Motor Division. Our mission is simple: “Buick will provide Premium American Motorcars backed with services that exceed our customers’ expectations, throughout the purchase, ownership, service and repurchase experience.” Buicks are SUBSTANTIAL. Buicks are DISTINCTIVE. Buicks are POWERFUL. Buicks are MATURE.

A

I923 Sport Roadster

Table of Contents

This part explains how to start and operate your Buick.

This part tells you how to use your manual and includes safety and vehicle damage warnings and symbols.

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

How to Use this Manual ................................................................ Seats and Restraint Systems ............................................................. This part tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system. FeaturesandControls .................................................................. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems ..................................................... YourDrivingandtheRoad .............................................................. Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. ProblemsontheRoad .................................................................. Serviceand Appearancecare ............................................................ Maintenanceschedule .................................................................. Customer Assistance Information ........................................................ Index ................................................................................

This part tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 305.

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

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

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

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

10

13

63

131

161

195

227

283

303

311

You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. fi This safety symbol means

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

How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. This will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box with gray background and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

In the gray caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

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

NOTICE:

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use yellow for cautions, blue for notices and the words CAUTION or NOTICE.

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

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

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

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

WINoSHIELD

WIPER

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

POSSIBLE A

CAUTION

INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC

BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

12

,111,

SEAT

DOOR LOCK UNLOCK

FASTEN

BELTS

POWER WINDOW

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

WARNING FLASHER

A HAZARD HIGH BEAM OR = -0 $0

FOG LAMPS

WINDOW DEFOGGER

VENTILATING FAN

Here are some other symbols you may see:

FUSE

RADIO

SELECTOR fi

"i"

CHARGING 1-1

BATTERY

SYSTEM

RADIO VOLUME

RADIATOR COOLANT

FUEL

ENGINE OIL PRESSURE W

ANTILOCK BRAKE

LIGHTER n

(a) TEMP OIL &

@ Part 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Buick. and how to use your safety belts properly . You can also learn about some things you should not do with safety belts . Part 1 includes:

SeatsandSeatControls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 HeadRestraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 SafetyBelts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Lap-ShoulderBelt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Supplemental Restraint System (Air bag) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Smaller Children and Babies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 LargerChildren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 SafetyBeltExtender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Checking Your Restraint System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Replacing Safety Belts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

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

Power Seat

. , . . . . . . . . ,

Front Control (F): Raise the front of the seat by pushing on the left side of the switch. Push on the right side of the switch to lower the front of the seat. Center Control (C): Move the seat forward or back by holding the control to the front or back. Raise the seat by holding the control to the left. Hold the control to the right to lower the seat. Rear Control (R): Raise the rear of the seat by holding the switch to the left. Holding the switch to the right lowers the rear of the seat.

Move the lever under the front seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

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Memory Seat and Mirrors (Option) If your Buick has this option, the control looks like this:

You can use this when you want to save a seat and mirror adjustment. Here’s how to make it work: 1. Adjust the driver’s seat to your desired position.

Adjust both outside mirrors to suit you. See “Outside Mirrors” in the Index.

2. Press the SET button, and then one of the two

memory buttons within 5 seconds. You will hear one beep when you press the set button, and two beeps when you press the memory button to confirm that the mirror and seat positions are entered in memory.

Now it’s set. When your Buick is in PARK with the ignition ON, push the memory button you just set and the seat and mirrors will go to where you’ve just set them. With the ignition OFF, the system will work in any shift lever position. To do the same thing for a second driver, follow the steps above but use the other memory button. If you hit the wrong memory setting, or if there is a third driver, the seat adjuster will still work, so you can adjust the seat to where you want it. The EXIT button allows you to get out of the car more easily. Push it while you’re in PARK with the ignition ON, or anytime with the ignition OFF, to make the seat go all the way down and back. Also, you will hear a beep when the EXIT button is pushed.

15

Reclining Front Seatback(s) To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to its upright position.

If you have the power recline option, it works vith the switch on the side df the seat. Push it back to recline the seat, push it forward to return the meatback to the up position.

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

is

17

Heated Seat (Option)

Head Restraints

If your vehicle has this option, push the switch on the side of the driver’s seat forward and the driver’s seat will start to warm up. The light on top of the switch will turn orange for low or red for high. Push the switch rearward to stop the seat from warming.

Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

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Safety Belts: They’re For Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System, or “air bag” system.

- This figure lights up

as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.)

In many states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed.

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After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

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

For example, if the bike is going 10 mph (16 km/h), so is the child.

20

I

When the bike hits the block, it stops. But the child keeps going!

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

21

p= ’:\ ,

Put someone on it.

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

22

. .

->

... . .

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

or the instrument panel ...

rl

23

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers

Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

won’t have to wear safety belts?

A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can easily unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted. &: Why don’t they just put in air bags so people A: Air bags, or Supplemental Restraint Systems, are in some vehicles today and will be in more of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only -- so they work with safety belts, not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

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

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@ If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 kmh). Safetv belts are for everyone.

Safety Belt Reminder Light

When the key is turned to “Run” or “Start,” a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 70 seconds. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on.

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Driver Position This section describes the driver’s restraint system

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

26

Lap-Shoulder Belt

The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

so you can sit up straight.

’ 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

27

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or crash. 28

You can move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.

1

To move it up or down, squeeze the release handle. When you release the handle, try to move it down a little to make sure it has locked into position. You can move the adjuster up from a lower position by pushing the bottom of the release handle.

Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is properly positioned on your shoulder, away from your face and neck. To help you find a height that is right for you, follow these guidelines: For a tall person: Use the upper or upper-middle position. For a person of average height: Use a position somewhere in the middle. For a short person: Use the lower or lower-middle position.

29

@ What’s wrong with this?

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

as much protection this way.

30

Q." What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

31

@ What's wrong with this?

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

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

32

@ What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

33

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way.

Supplemental Restraint System (Air Bags) This section explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), or “air bag,” system. Your Buick has an air bag for the driver and for the right-front passenger. Here’s the most important thing to know:

Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

34

35

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

How The Air Bag System Works

A .

.. .

INFL. REST.

E 1

You will see this light flash for a few seconds when you turn your ignition to “Run” or “Start.” Then the light should go out, which means the system is ready. Remember, if the air bag readiness light doesn’t come on when you start your vehicle, or stays on, or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away.

36

When is an air bag expected to inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will only inflate if the velocity of the impact is above the designed threshold level. When impacting straight into a wall that does not move or deform, the threshold level for most GM vehicles is between 9 and 15 mph (14 and 23 km/h). However, this velocity threshold depends on the vehicle design and may be several miles-per-hour faster or slower. In addition, this threshold velocity will be considerably higher if the vehicle strikes an object such as a parked car which will move and deform on impact. The air bag is also not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts where the inflation would provide no occupant protection benefit. It is possible that in a crash, only one of the two air bags in your Park Avenue will deploy. This is rare, but can happen in a crash just severe enough to make an air bag inflate.

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Where is the air bag? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. The right-front passenger’s air bag is located in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.

In any particular crash, the determination of whether the air bag should have inflated cannot be based solely on the level of damage on the vehicle(s). Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration, of which vehicle damage is only one indication. Repair cost is not a good indicator of whether an air bag should have deployed. What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates a cloth bag. The inflator, cloth bag, and related hardware are all part of the air bag inflator modules packed inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the passenger.

how does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not provide protection in many types of collisions, including rollovers and rear and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belt protection in moderate to severe frontal and near-frontal collisions.

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What will you see after an air bag inflation? After the air bag has inflated, it will then quickly deflate. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize that the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag or the instrument panel for the passenger’s bag may be hot for a short time, but the portion of the bag that comes into contact with you will not be hot to the touch. There will be small amounts of smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. The air bag will not impede the driver’s vision or ability to steer the vehicle, nor will it hinder the occupants from exiting the vehicle. In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may occur in vehicles with passenger air bags because the windshield acts as a reaction surface for the inflating air bag. 0 The air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual has information about the need to replace other parts.

Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and whether the driver’s safety belt was in use. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

NOTICE: If you damage the cover for the driver’s or the right-front passenger’s air bag, they may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag on the steering wheel or both the air bag and the instrument panel for the passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag covers.

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Is the smoke from an air bag inflation harmful? The particles emitted during air bag inflation are not harmful to most people. Some people with respiratory ailments may experience difficulty breathing if they stay in the vehicle with the windows closed after air bag inflation. So, if your air bag inflates, you and any passengers should exit the vehicle if and when it is safe to do so. If you or your passengers can’t get out of the vehicle, try to get fresh air by opening a window, turning on the fan, or opening a door. Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick Air bags affect how your Buick should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your Buick dealer and the 1994 Park Avenue Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible throughout the pregnancy.

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position

The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this part. When the lap portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again.

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If your vehicle has a center passenger position, be sure to use the correct buckle when buckling your lap-shoulder belt. If you find that the latch plate will not go fully into the buckle, see if you are using the buckle for the center passenger position. Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt

When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.

Kear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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

When the lap belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.

the chest. These

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

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Children

Smaller Children and Babies

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

A

47

Child Restraints Be sure to follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in the rear seat. NEVER put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

48

Top Strap

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.

If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Buick dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it.

49

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

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

50

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 lap belt all the way out of the

retractor to set the lock.

51

6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt into the retractor

while you push down on the child restraint.

....

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

52

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position

When you secure a child restraint in a center seating position, you’ll be using the lap belt.

53

See tne earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch

plate and pulling it along the belt.

4. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

54

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

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

down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure. If the child restraint isn’t secure, turn the latch plate over and buckle it again. Then see if it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat

Your vehicle has a right-front passenger’s air bag. NEVER put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

2.

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Because your vehicle has a right-front passenger’s 1. air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a front-facing child restraint. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. 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.

3.

4.

55

If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child's face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

6. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the

retractor to set the lock.

5. Buckle the belt.

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

56

7. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the

retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

8. 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.

57

Larger Children

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. 0 Children who aren't buckled up can be thrown out in

a crash.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle's safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

58

0 Children who aren't buckled up can strike other

people who are.

&: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in the center seat position, the one that has only a lap belt.

59

60

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt.

Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, anchorages and reminder systems are working properly. Look for any loose parts or damage. If you see anything that might keep a restraint system from doing its job, have it repaired.

61

&.' What's wrong with this?

Replacing Safety Belts After a Crash If you've had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn't being used at the time of the collision. If your seat adjuster won't work after a crash, the special part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the adjuster may need to be replaced.

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

Part 2 Features and Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Buick. and information on starting. shifting and braking . Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly .. and what to do if you have a problem . Part 2 includes:

Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 DoorLocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 79 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NewVehicleBreak-In 81 StartingtheEngine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Shifting the Transaxle Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 93 TiltSteeringWheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Turn Signal/Headlight Beam Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Headlight High-Low Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Windshield Wipermasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Cruisecontrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 108 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Instrumentpanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Speedometer and Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

63

The the i

ignitio~ gnition

n keys only.

are for

The door keys are for the doors and all other locks.

Keys

/d CAUTION:

Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.

64

Key Reminder Warning If you leave your keys in the ignition, you will hear a warning tone when you turn off the ignition and open the driver’s door. Door Locks

When a new Park Avenue is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the keys, and gives them to the first owner. However, if the ignition key does not have a plug, there may be a bar-coded key tag instead. Each plug has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the plugs in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using these plugs. If your ignition keys don’t have plugs, go to your Buick dealer for the correct key code if you need a new ignition key.

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

65

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle:

From the door key.

outside: use your

From the inside: to lock the door, move the lock control on the door down. To unlock the door, move the lock control on the door

If your vehicle has a theft deterrent system and it is activated, unlock the doors only with the key or Remote Keyless Entry System. This will avoid setting off the alarm.

66

You can program the automatic door lock feature to allow the doors to remain locked after you shift into “P” (Park). To program the automatic door locks: 1. Close your doors and turn.the ignition ON. 2. Keep your foot on the brake pedal. 3. Press and hold the driver’s power door lock switch. 4. Move your shift lever out of “P” (Park), then move

the shift lever back into “P” (Park).

5. Release the lock switch. Your doors will now lock when you shift out of “P” (Park), and remain locked until you use the manual or power door unlock switch.

Power Door Locks

Push a power door lock switch to lock or unlock all of the doors.

Programmable Automatic Door Locks (Option) Close your doors and turn on the ignition. Every time you move your shift lever out of “P” (Park) all of the doors will lock. And, every time you stop and move your shift lever into “ P ’ (Park), your doors will unlock. If someone needs to get out while you’re not in “P” (Park), have that person use the manual or power lock. When the door is closed again, it will not lock automatically. Just use the manual or power lock to lock the door again.

67

To reprogram the door locks to lock and unlock when you shift in and out of “P’ (Park) do the following: I. Close your doors and turn the ignition ON. 2. Keep your foot on the brake pedal. 3. Press and hold the driver’s power door unlock

switch.

4. Move the shift lever out of “P” (Park), then move the

shift lever back into “P” (Park).

5. Release the unlock switch. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. If your vehicle has a theft deterrent system, see “Universal Theft Deterrent” in the Index.

Trunk Remote Trunk Release

The trunk release switch in the glove box must be ON for the TRUNK release button to work. This feature allows you to secure items in the trunk. To secure, turn OFF the TRUNK RELEASE, lock the glove box, then take the door key with you.

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:. . .

The TRUNK button is on

Automatic Pull-Down Feature (Option) If you have this feature, it pulls the trunk lid closed. This allows you to gently push the trunk lid down and the pull-down feature then secures it completely.

1 NOTICE:

Do not slam your trunk lid down if you have the pull-down feature. If you do, you may damage the pull-down system.

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Remote Keyless Entry System (Option)

If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules.

70

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: ( 1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Should interference to this system occur, try this: Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions on battery replacement. Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. This product has a maximum range. Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. See your Buick dealer or a qualified technician for service.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. Operation The driver’s door will unlock automatically when UNLOCK is pressed. If quickly pressed again, all doors will unlock. All doors will lock when LOCK is pressed.

The trunk will unlock when the opened trunk symbol is pressed, but only when the ignition is off.

Illuminated Entry System If your Buick also has this option, the key tag will make it work. Touch any button on the key tag to light up the door locks and the inside of your car. The lights will stay on for 15 to 30 seconds.

Theft Deterrent System If your Buick also has this option, the key tag will arm it whenever the doors are closed and you push the LOCK button. It will disarm the system when you push UNLOCK. Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring the remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, the remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle,

71

You can match a transmitter to as many different vehicles as you own, provided they are equipped with exactly the same model system. (General Motors offers several different models of these systems on their vehicles.) Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched to it. To match a transmitter, use the following instructions. 1. Have both transmitters that will be matched to the

car present, even if only one is new. Remove the car keys from the ignition and have them with you. 2. Find the 16 pin diagnostic connector above the

'.

accelerator pedal.

BLK

ASSEMBLY LINE DIAGNOSTIC

LINK (ALDL) CONNECTOR

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3. Use a jumper wire with alligator clips at both ends to

ground (Terminal 4) to program (Terminal 8). Grounding the program terminal erases the system memory and causes the doors to lock and unlock once. This means the system is ready to be matched to the transmitter.

4. Keeping the program terminal grounded, press the UNLOCK button on the first transmitter. The door locks will lock and unlock again to indicate the transmitter is now matched. If there is no response, check the transmitter batteries. If you do not want to match a second transmitter, proceed to Step 6.

5. Still keeping the program terminal grounded, repeat Step 4 with the second transmitter. If you disconnect the ground wire before completing this step, only the first transmitter is matched. If you make a mistake, disconnect the jumper wire and start over at Step 3. 6. Remove the jumper wire. (Note: The system will not

operate if the jumper wire is still connected.)

7. Test the operation of both transmitters with the

vehicle.

If the lock control does not work as it should, see your Buick dealer.

Battery Replacement Under normal use, the batteries in your key chain transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the batteries are weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the batteries.

For battery replacement, use two Duracella batteries, type DL-2016, or a similar type.

To replace the batteries:

1.

2.

Remove the screw from the back cover. Lift off the front cover, bottom half first.

3. Remove and replace the batteries. Put them in as the

instructions under the batteries indicate.

4. Replace the front cover. Make sure the cover is on tightly, so water won’t get in. Replace the screw in the back cover.

73

Rear Door Security Lock Your Buick is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your car from the inside. To use one of these locks:

1. Open one of the rear doors. 2. Move the lever all the way up. 3. Close the door. 4. Do the same thing to the other rear door lock. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from inside when this feature is in use. If you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on: 74

1. Unlock the door from the inside. 2. Then open the door from the outside. If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the rear door from the inside. You should let adults and older children know how these security locks work, and how to cancel the locks. To cancel the rear door lock:

CHILD

SECURITY

LOCK

SET LEVER ON BOTH REAR DOORS

1. Unlock the door from the inside and open the door from the outside. 2. Move the lever all the

way down.

3. Do the same for the

other rear door.

The rear door locks will now work normally.

Illuminated Entry System (Option)

With this option, when you push the door handle button, a light around the door lock will come on for about 25 seconds.

You’ll be able to see where to put the door key when it’s dark, and the lights inside your Buick will go on. They’ll go off when you start your engine, or when 25 seconds have passed. If you have the Remote Keyless Entry System option, it can make the illuminated entry system work too. (See Remote Keyless Entry System in the Index.) If you have this option, your interior lights will automatically shut off after a 10 minute period if a door is left ajar. This feature is designed to help eliminate battery wear down.

Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your Buick has a number of theft deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you walk away from your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your Buick and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors. Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.

75

Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? 1. Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk

or glove box.

2. Lock the glove box. 3. Lock all the doors except the driver’s. 4. Then t&e the door key with you. Universal Theft Deterrent (Option) If your Buick has this option, it has a theft deterrent alarm system. With this system, the “SECURITY” light will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off). This light reminds you to activate the theft deterrent system. Here’s how to do it: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or

Remote Keyless Entry System. The “SECURITY” light should come on and stay on.

3. Close all doors. The “SECURITY” light should go

Off.

If a door or the trunk is opened without the key or Remote Keyless Entry System; the alarm will go off. It will also go off if a door lock or the trunk lock is damaged. Your vehicle’s lights will flash and the horn will sound for several minutes, then will go off to save battery power. Kemember, the theft deterrent system won’t activate if you lock the doors with a key or manual door lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock switch or Remote Keyless Entry System. You should also remember that you can start your vehicle with the correct ignition key if the alarm has been set off. You must still shut off the alarm by inserting the key in the door lock. Here’s how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident: 1. If you don’t want to activate the theft deterrent

system, the vehicle should be locked after the doors are closed.

2. Always unlock a door with a key, or use the Remote Keyless Entry System. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm.

If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any door with your key. You can also turn off the alarm by using the Keyless Entry System, if you have it. The alarm won’t stop if you try to unlock a door any other way. How to Test The Alarm The alarm can be tested by first having the driver’s window down. Activate the system by locking the doors with the power door lock switch or the Remote Keyless Entry System. Get out of the car and close the door and wait for the SECURITY light to go out. Then reach in through the window, unlock the door with the manual door lock, and open the door. This should set off the alarm. If the alarm does not sound when it should, check to see if the horn works. The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse, see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. To reduce the possibility of theft, always activate the theft deterrent system when leaving your vehicle.

PASS-Key@II

Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key@II (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft deterrent system. PASS-Key% is a passive theft deterrent system. This means you don’t have to do anything different to arm or disarm the system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition. PASS-Key@II uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that matches a decoder in your vehicle.

77

When the PASS-Key% system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. For about three minutes, the starter won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key during this time, the vehicle will not start. This discourages someone from randomly trying different keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make a match. The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the engine does not start and the “SECURITY’’ light comes on, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the key. Wait about three minutes and try again. The security light may remain on during this time. If the starter still won’t work, and the key appears to be clean and dry, wait about three minutes and try the other ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your

vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your Buick dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key@II. If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, the starter won’t work and the “SECURITY” light will flash. But you don’t have to wait three minutes before trying one of the other ignition keys. See your Buick dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key@II to have a new key made. If you’re ever driving and the “SECURITY” light comes on and stays on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn it off. Your PASS-Key% system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your Buick dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key% system. If you lose or damage a PASS-Key@II ignition key, see your Buick dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key@II to have a new key made.

78

New Vehicle “Break-In”

Ignition Key Positions

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

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

make full-throttle starts.

2. Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this “breaking-in” guideline every time you get new brake linings.

Your square-headed key operates your ignition lock.

79

(C) Off: This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like Lock. Use “Off’ if you must have your car in motion while the engine is off. (D) Run: This is the position for driving. (E) Start: This key position starts your engine.

NOTICE: If your key seems stuck in “Lock” and you can’t turn it, be sure it is all the way in. If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. But turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.

With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five different positions: (A) Accessory: This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. To use, push in the key and turn it toward you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key. (B) Lock: Before you put the key in, your ignition will be in the Lock position. This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft deterrent feature.

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Retained Accessory Power (Option) After the ignition is turned off, and before any door is opened, the following systems will work for ten minutes: 0 Power Windows 0 Radio

Optional Astroroof

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

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

1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

ignition key to “Start.” When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

I NOTICE:

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

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in “Start”

for about three to five seconds at a time until your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery.

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in “Start” for about three seconds. If the car starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. After waiting about 15 seconds, repeat the normal starting procedure.

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

Driving Through Deep Standing Water I NOTICE:

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

Engine Coolant Heater (Engine Block Heater) (Canada Only) In very cold weather, 0°F (- 18 “C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. To use the coolant heater: 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 1 10-volt outlet.

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Automatic Transaxle

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

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the weather, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact a Buick dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

There are several different positions for your shift lever.

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

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the shift lever all the way into “ P ’ (Park) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. See “Shifting Out of ‘P’ (Park)” in this part.

R (Reverse) Use this gear to back up.

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

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “If You’re Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index. 0 N (Neutral)

In this position, your engine doesn t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use “N” (Neutral) only. Also, use “N” when your vehicle is being towed.

(Park) range before

Ensure the shift lever is fully in T ’ starting the engine. Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from “P” (Park) when the ignition key is in the “Run” position. If you cannot shift out of “ P ’ (Park), ease pressure on the shift lever - push

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- Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down.

- Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the

accelerator all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.

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

@ Automatic Overdrive This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re:

D or 3 (Third Gear) This is like @, but you never go into Overdrive. Here are some times you might choose “D or 3 ” instead of @: - When driving on hilly, winding roads - When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting

between gears

- When going down a steep hill 2 (Second Gear) This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use “2” on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

QL

NOTICE: Don’t drive in “2” (Second Gear) for more than 5 miles (8 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use “@” or “@ or 3” as much as possible. Don’t shift into “2” unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can damage your engine.

1 (First Gear) This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than “2.” You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in “1,” the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

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

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. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.

The parking brake uses the brakes on the rear wheels.

To release the parking brake: This vehicle has a push to release parking brake pedal. Hold the regular brake pedal down and push the parking brake pedal with your left foot. This will unlock the pedal. When you lift your left foot, the parking brake pedal will follow it to the release position. If you try to drive off with the parking brake on, the brake light stays on and a chime sounds until you release the parking brake or recycle the ignition.

I NOTICE:

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

If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill: See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

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Shifting Into 6 6 P 7 9 (Park)

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

this:

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

set the parking brake.

0 Pull the lever toward you.

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Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

Move the lever up as far as it will go.

3. Move the ignition key to “Lock.” 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can

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

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

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

9 9

6 6

Shifting Out of P (Park) Your h i c k has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from “ P ’ (Park) when the ignition is in the “Run” position. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of T“ (Park), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into “P” (Park) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of “P” (Park), try this: 1, Turn the key to “Off.” Open and close the driver’s

door to turn off the Retained Accessory Power feature, if you have it.

2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to “N” (Neutral). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear you

want.

5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.

Parking Over Things That Burn

Engine Exhaust

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

things to know.

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

Power Windows

Your power window controls are on the armrest. The switch for the driver’s window has an express-down feature. Pull the switch back all the way, release it and the window will lower automatically. To stop the window from lowering, push the switch forward. To partially open the window, pull the switch back and quickly release it. You may also have a lock out button. Push LOCK to disable the power window switches. This will prevent passengers from opening and closing the windows. The

driver can still control all the windows with the switch in the locked position. Push UNLOCK to allow your passengers to use their window switches again. Horn To sound the horn, press a pad with the horn symbol on either side of the steering wheel. Tilt Wheel

A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.

To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever toward you. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable position, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

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The Turn SignallHeadlight Beam Lever

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator