1996 Buick Park Avenue Owners Manual

system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

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+erly

ear Safety Be,,,

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

This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-S----Ider 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.

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Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.

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

To move it down, squeeze the release handle and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the bottom of the release handle. After you move the adjudter to where you want it, try to move it down without squeezing the release handle to make sure it has locked into position.

Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder. @’ What’s wrong with this?

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

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

as much protection this way.

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

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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@ What’s wrong with this?

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

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

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

&.’ What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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Your Buick has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

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

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To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. 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. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system.

‘!\ CAUTION:

‘Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously. injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even - with an air bag. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

/I\ LAUTION:

AIR BAG

AIR BAG

There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.

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An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see, the part of this manual called “Children” and the caution label on the right front passenger’s safety belt.

How the

__ Bag System Works

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 in the instrument panel on the passenger's side.

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

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

cause injury.

When should an air bag inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 15 mph (14 to 24 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your

vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle damage is only one indication of this. What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag, The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules packed inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front 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 help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions. What will you see after an air bag inflates? After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, will be hot for a short time. The part of the bag that comes into contact with you may be warm, but it will never be too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags.

Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

The air 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 for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

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and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, ‘when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment.

0 Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that yoyr air bag syst,em 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 module in the steering wheel’or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag covers.

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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 Park Avenue Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications’’ in the Index.

For up to 10 seconds after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with ‘yellow tape or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.

m e air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

-,ring Pregnancy

Safety Belt Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy. 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 section. 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. 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.

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Belt

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

When you sit in a center seating position, 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.

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

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

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

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If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. . If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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.

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3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

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.

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The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.

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

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

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position ip the rear seat. To provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on the shoulder belts.. Here’s how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt:

1. Pull the elastic cord out fi-om between the edge of the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip.

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2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.

3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.

The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.

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4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as

described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.

To remove and store the comfort guides, just perform these steps in reverse order. Squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed.

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

Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained in a child or infant restraint.

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

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a

vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much -- until a

crash. During a crash a baby will beCome so

CAUTION: (Continued)

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

A CATTTION:

I - A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. Before you secure a forward-facing child restraint, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. Or, secure the child restraint in the rear seat.

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but only with the seat moved all the way back.

It’s always better to

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. 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.

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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.

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

for the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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

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

you push down on the child restraint.

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Positic-

See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

You’ll be using the lap belt.

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but only with the seat moved all the way back.

1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch

plate and pulling it along the belt.

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.

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

5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. If it isn't, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

child passenger.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

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

2.

3.

4.

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1.

Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” in the Index.) 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. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the chdd’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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

retractor to set the lock.

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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.

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

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly.

Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.

A CAUTION:

Never do this. belt. The Here two children are wearing the same belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.

@ 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 sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index. 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.

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

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.

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 the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If 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. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

Section 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. Keys

I A CAUTION:

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

The ignition keys are for the ignition only.

The door keys are for the doors and all other 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 or the tag. 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 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.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. From the outside, use your door key or Remote Keyless Entry, if your vehicle has this option.

To lock the door from the inside, slide the lock control lever down. To unlock the door, slide the lock control lever up.

Door Locks

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.

Central Door Unlocking System (Option) If the driver’s door key is held in the unlock position for more than one second, all doors will electronically unlock. Power Door Locks

With power door locks, you can lock or unlock all doors of your vehicle by using either the driver or front passenger power door lock switch.

Memory Door Locks (Option) Close your doors and turn on the ignition. Every time you move your shift lever out of PARK (P), all of the doors will lock. And, every time you stop and move your shift lever into PARK (P), your doors will unlock. If someone needs to get out while you’re not in PARK (P), 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. If you need to lock your doors before shifting out of PARK (P), just use the manual or power lock button to lock the doors.

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Mode

buDrdmizing Your Memory Door Locks Feature You can program the memory door locks feature to change to the following modes: Operation No automatic door lock or unlock. All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). No automatic door unlock. All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). Only the driver’s door automatically unlocks when shifted into PARK (P). All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). All doors automatically unlock when shifted into PARK (P).

Vehicles are delivered programmed in Mode 3.

To change modes: 1. Close all doors and turn the ignition on. Keep all

doors closed throughout this procedure.

2. Press and hold the driver’s power door lock switch

through Step 4.

3. Press the LOCK button on the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. The automatic door locks will remain in the current mode.

4. Press the LOCK button on the transmitter again.

Each time the transmitter’s LOCK button is pressed, the mode will advance by one, going from 3 to 0 to 1, etc.

5. Release the power door lock switch. The

automatic door locks will remain in the most recent mode selected.

To open a rear door when the security lock is on: 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 security lock: 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 thing for the other rear door. The rear door locks will now work normally.

CHILD

SECURITY

LOCK

SET LEVER ON BOTH REAP DOORS

Your Buick is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside.

To use one of these locks: 1. Open one of the rear doors. 2. Move the lever on the door all the way up to the

ENGAGED position.

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 the inside when this feature is in use.

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Lockout Protection The power door locks will not work if the key is left in the ignition with the driver’s door open. You can override this feature by holding the power door lock switch for more than three seconds, unless the engine is running. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside, then get out and close the door. Remote Keyless Entry System (Option) If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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Should interference to this system occur, try this: 0 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.

0 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.

The driver’s door will unlock when UNLOCK is pressed. If pressed again within five seconds, all doors will unlock. Pressing any button will also illuminate the interior lamps (see “Illuminated Entry” in the Index). All doors will lock when LOCK is pressed. The trunk will unlock when the trunk open symbol is pressed, but only when the ignition is in the LOCK or OFF position. The trunk symbol will also work when the ignition is on, but only while in PARK (P).

When the button with the horn symbol on the key transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to two minutes. This can be turned off by pressing the instant alarm button again, unlocking the vehicle with a key or by turning the ignition on. If only the instant alarm button works, the transmitter needs to be resynchronized to the receiver. Do this by pressing and holding both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons for about eight seconds; you must be within range of the vehicle. Once the transmitter has been resynchronized, the horn will chirp and the exterior lamps will flash once. The system should now operate properly.

m a l Choice Fer

Each key transmitter can be programmed to the driver’s preference for memory door locks, security feedback, delayed locking and perimeter lighting. See each feature in the Index. The transmitters can also be programmed to move the driver’s seat and outside mirrors to a set memory position when the key transmitter’s UNLOCK button is pressed.

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To program the system: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Adjust the driver’s seat to a comfortable and safe driving position. Adjust both outside mirrors to suit you. See “Outside Mirrors” in the Index. Press the SET button on the driver’s door armrest. You will hear one beep. Within five seconds, press one of the two memory buttons on the armrest. You will hear two beeps to confirm that the mirror and the seat positions are entered into memory. Press the UNLOCK button on the appropriate transmitter within five seconds. You will hear two beeps. e second key transmitter can be programmed to

record a different seat and mirror position by following the same steps.

If you prefer to program the exit seat position, which moves the seat completely down and back, follow these steps: 1. Press the SET button on the driver’s door armrest.

You will hear one beep.

2. Press the EXIT button on the armrest. You will hear

one beep, but the seat will not move at this time.

3. Press the UNLOCK button on the appropriate transmitter within five seconds. You will hear two beeps.

This personal choice feature will work only when the vehicle is in PARK (P). A beep will sound inside the vehicle when the UNLOCK button on the transmitter is pressed to move the seat and mirrors. To turn this feature off, press SET, then UNLOCK within five seconds.

Security Feedback This provides feedback to the driver when the vehicle receives a command from the key transmitter. The following modes may be selected:

Mode

Security Feedback No feedback when locking or unlocking vehicle. No feedback when locking; exterior lamps flash when unlocking vehicle. Exterior lamps flash when locking; no feedback when unlocking vehicle. Exterior lamps flash when locking and when unlocking vehicle. Exterior lamps flash and horn chirps when locking; no feedback when unlocking vehicle. Exterior lamps flash and horn chlrps when locking; exterior lamps flash when unlocking vehicle.

Vehicles are delivered programmed in Mode 5. To change to another mode: 1. Press and hold the power door lock switch. 2. Press the opened trunk button on the transmitter. The

transmitter will remain in its current mode.

3. Press the opened trunk button again. Each time the opened trunk button is pressed, the transmitter will advance to the next mode.

4. Release the power door lock switch. Delayed Locking Note: This feature is available only if you request your dealer to activate this option. After initial activation, you can turn this feature on and off by using the following procedure. This feature lets the driver delay the actual locking of the vehicle. When the power door lock switch is pressed with the key removed from the ignition and the driver’s door open, a chime will sound three times to signal that the lock delay mode is active. When all doors have been closed, the doors will lock automatically after five seconds. If any door is opened before this, the five-second timer will reset itself once all the doors have been closed again.

Pressing the door lock switch twice within two seconds will override this feature. The delayed locking feature can be turned on or off for each remote transmitter. To turn the feature on: 1. Press and hold the power door lock switch

throughout this procedure. All the doors will lock.

2. Press the UNLOCK button on the remote transmitter.

The lock delay is still off and all doors will remain locked.

3. Press the UNLOCK button on the remote

transmitter again. Lock delay is now active and all doors will unlock.

4. Release the power door lock switch. To turn this feature off, repeat the above procedure.

If your vehicle is not equipped with Remote Keyless Entry, use the following procedure to turn this feature on and off. 1. With the ignition on, press and hold the power door

lock switch. All doors will lock.

2. Toggle the headlamp switch seven times (off to on is

considered one toggle). The doors will unlock to confirm that the feature is now on. 3. Release the power door lock switch. To turn this feature off, repeat the above procedure.

Theft-Deterrent System The key transmitter will arm the theft-deterrent system whenever the doors are closed and you push the LOCK button. It will disarm the system when you push UNLOCK.

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48

Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when. you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transrditter .to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be, matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters matched to it. See your dealer to match transmitters to another vehicle. Battery Replacement Under normal use; the battery in your key chain transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is 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 battery.

For battery replacement, use a Dwacell@ battery, type DL-2032,’or a similar type.

To replace the battery: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Insert a coin into the notch near the keyring. Turn the coin counterclockwise to separate the two halves of the transmitter. Once the transmitter is separated, use a pencil to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. Remove and replace the battery as the instructions under the cover indicate. Be sure not to touch any of the black boxes or the green surfaces. Any static transferred from your body to these areas may cause the transmitter to be inoperative. Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure no moisture can enter. Resynchronize the transmitter by pressing and holding the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons for about eight seconds within range of the vehicle. Once the transmitter is resynchronized, the horn will chirp and the exterior lamps will flash once.

Trunk Trunk Lock Release To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the door key and turn it. Remote Trunk Release

Press the TRUNK release button located to the left of the steering column to release the trunk lid.

The remote trunk release lockout switch located in the glove box must be in the on position and the transaxle in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) for this feature to work.

Remote Trunk Release Lockout

The remote trunk release lockout switch in the glove box allows you to secure items in the trunk. Move the trunk release lockout switch to off, lock the glove box and take the key with you. Now the remote TRUNK release to the left of the steering column will not open the trunk.

To allow the remote TRUNK release switch to the left of the steering column to operate again, move the trunk release lockout switch to on. Trunk Security Override The optional Remote Keyless Entry transmitter will open the trunk even if the trunk release lockout switch is in the off position.

It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid:

Make sure all windows are shut.

0 W r n the fan on your heating or cooling

system to its highest speed with the setting on any airflow selection except RECIRC. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. 0 If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Trunk Lid Automatic Pull-Down Feature (Option) If your Buick has this option, never slam the trunk lid to close it. Instead, gently lower the trunk lid until it is nearly shut -- the automatic pull-down will take over and lock the trunk firmly.

A CAUTION:

Your car may have an automatic pull-down feature that helps close the trunk electronically. Your fingers can be trapped under the trunk lid as it goes down. Your fingers could be injured, and you would need someone to help you free them. Keep your fingers away from the trunk lid as you close it and as it is going 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.

I Key in the Ignition

If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. With the ignition OFF and the driver’s door open, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors.

Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk or glove box.

0 Lock the glove box. 0 Lock all the doors except the driver’s. 0 Then take 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).

SECURITY

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 the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. The SECURITY light should come on and stay on.

3. Close all doors. The SECURITY light should go off

after approximately 30 seconds. The alarm is not armed until the SECURITY light goes off.

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If a door or the trunk is opened without the key or the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter, the alarm will go off. It will also go off if the trunk lock is damaged. Your vehicle’s lamps will flash and the horn will sound for several minutes, then will turn off to save battery power. Remember, 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 transmitter. 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:

If you don’t want to activate the theft-deterrent system, the vehicle should be locked after the doors are closed. Always unlock a door with a key, or use the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm.

If you set off the alarrn by accident, unlock any door with your key. You can also turn off the alarm by using the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter, 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 transmitter. Get out of the car, 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.

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PAS7-Kej I T

Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key 11 (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key 11 is a passive theft-deterrent system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition.

PASS-Key I1 uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that matches a decoder in your vehicle. When the PASS-Key I1 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 another 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 11.

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 another ignition key. See your Buick dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key 11 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 11 system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your Buick dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key I1 system. If you lose or damage a PASS-Key 11 ignition key, see your Buick dealer or a lockskth who can service PASS-Key 11 to have a new key made.

New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

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

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

Don’t make full-throttle starts. Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. Don’t tow a trailer during break-in. See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

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

.. c

-.

OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like LOCK and it doesn’f send any electrical power to the accessories. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is not running. RUN (D): This is- an on position that the switch returns to after you start your engine and release the switch. This is the position for driving.-Even when the engine is not running, you can use RUN to operate your electrical ’ power accessories and to display some instrument panel warning lights. START (E): This position starts your engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to RUN for normal driving.

NOTICE:

ACCESSORY (A): An on position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. Press in the ignition switch as you hun the top of it toward you. LOCK (B): This is the only position in which yqu can remove the key. This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft-deterrent feature.

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.

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.

~~

~~

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.

Key Reminder Warning If you leave your key in the ignition, in the OFF position, you will hear a warning chime when you open the driver’s door. Retained Accessory Power (Option) If you have the optional Remote Keyless Entry, after you turn your ignition off and even remove the key, you will still have electrical power to such accessories as the radio and power windows for up to 10 minutes. But if you open a door, power is shut off. Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

NOTICE:

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

I

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 vehicle 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 fi-om 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 engine operates. Before qdding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

Engine Coolant Heater (Option) In very cold weather, .Oo F (- 18 O C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. 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 AC outlet.

Plugging the cord’into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical ,shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

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4. After you’ve used the coolant heater,k sure to store it away from moving

the cord as it was before to keep engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.

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

Your automatic transaxle has a shift lever located on the steering column. There are several different positions for your shift lever.

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

’ A CAUTION:

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

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Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the RUN position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.

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

Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is ‘(racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

I NOTICE:

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.

Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) 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: 0 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. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (a). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@): 0 When driving on hilly, winding roads 0 When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting

between gears When going down a steep hill

SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

I NOTICE:

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

Automatic Ride Control Your Park Avenue automatic ride control provides a comfortable, controlled ride. This suspension system keeps adjusting your car’s ride and handling depending upon speed and road conditions. Automatic ride control uses three levels of control to ensure a combination of balance and stability.

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

I 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 PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

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Pal _____

Your Park Avenue has a PUSHTORELEASE parking brake pedal. 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 and a single chime will be heard.

The parking brake uses the brakes on the rear wheels. To release the parking brake, 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 (approximately 40 feet (12.2 m)), with the parking brake on, the brake light stays on and a continuous chime sounds until you release the parking brake.

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 part shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

Shifting Into PARK (P)

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

set the parking brake.

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

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

as follows: 0 Pull the lever toward you.

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

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

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

Move the lever up as far as it will go.

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

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

Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN position. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can I shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to OFF. Open and close the driver’s door to turn off the Retained Accessory Power feature (if equipped).

2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 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 A CAUTION:

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

Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. Repairs weren't done correctly.

0 Your vehicle or exhaust system had been

modified improperly.

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

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: 0 Drive it only with all the windows down to

blow out any CO; and Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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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.

A CAUTIOF . ;

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

A f‘ A T TTTnN

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

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

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Windows Power Windows

Switches on the driver’s armrest control each of the windows while the ignition is on or retained accessory power is active. In addition, each passenger door has a switch for its own window.

Express-Down Window 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 again. To partially open the window, pull the switch back and quickly release it. To raise the window, hold the switch forward. Window Lock Press the LOCK switch on the driver’s armrest to disable all passenger window switches. The driver’s window controls will still be operable. This is a useful feature when you have young children as passengers. Press the UNLOCK switch to allow passengers to use their window switches again. Horn Nearly the entire surface of the center pad of the steering wheel is an active horn switch. Press anywhere on the pad to sound the horn.

ion ever

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: a Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator a Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer and

Passing Signal

a Windshield Wipers a Windshield Washer 0 Cruise Control

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator

An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.

The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two, downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it. As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don’t flash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check the fuse (see “Fuses’ and Circuit Breakers” in the Index) and for burned-out bulbs.

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When the high beams are on, a light on the instrument panel will also be on.

If you have a trailer towing option with added wiring for the trailer lamps, a different turn signal flasher is used. With this flasher installed, the signal indicator will flash even if a turn signal bulb is burned out. Check the front and rear turn signal lamps regularly to make sure they are working. lbm Signal On Chime If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound at each flash of the turn signal. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the off position. Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, pull the turn signal lever toward you, then release it.

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Windshield Wipers

You control the windshield wipers by turning the band marked WIPER. For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles,. hold the band on MIST longer.

You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to LO, the shorter the delay. For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the LO position. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, move the band to OFF. Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload.

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Windshield Washer At the top of the multifunction lever there’s a paddle with the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle for less than a second. The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed. For more washer cycles, push and hold the paddle.

I If this light comes on, it

means you’re low on washer fluid.

WASHER FLUID LOW

In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.

Driving without washer fluid can be dangerous. A bad mud splash can block your vision. You could hit another vehicle or go off the road. Check your washer fluid level often. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index.

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Cruise Control

With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 kmb) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips.

Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes, the cruise control shuts off.

Cruise control can be dangerous where you can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control. Don’t use cruise control on slippery roads.

If your vehicle is in cruise control when the optional traction control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. (See “Traction Control System” in the Index.) When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may turn the cruise control back on.

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Setting CI I

If you leave your cruise control switch on when you're not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don't want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch OFF until you want to use it.

1.

2.

Move the cruise control switch to ON. Get up to the speed you want.

3. Push in the SET

button at the end of the lever and release it. The CRUISE light on the instrument panel will come on.

4. Take your foot off the

accelerator pedal.

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed:

Use the accelerator pedal to go to a higher speed. I s h the button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator Dedal. You’ll now c 2 s e at the higher speed.

Resuming a Set Speed Setting the cruise control at a desired speed and then applying the brake will end the cruise control function.

Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 h/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second to reset. This returns you to your desired preset speed.

Remember, if you hold the switch at R/A longer than half a second, the vehicle will accelerate until you release the switch or apply the brake. You could be startled and even lose control. So unless you want to go faster, don’t hold the switch at R/A.

0 Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you reach a desired speed and then release the switch.

e -r--- Nhile Using Cruise Control

There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control:

0 Push in the button at the end of the lever until you reach a desired lower speed then release it.

To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to R/A for less than half a second and then release it. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 h/h) faster. The accelerate feature will only work after you have set the cruise control speed by pushing the SET button.

To slow down in very small amounts, push the button for less than half a second. Each time you do this, you'll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. Ither Vehicle 'w 1 *. e Using Cr

;e Loner Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier.

'ing A

Using Cruise Control on Hills Haw well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills. Ending Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control:

Step lightly on the brake pedal; or

0 Move the cruise switch to OFF. The CRUISE light

will also go out.

Erasing Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased.

Lamps

H Adlamps This switch controls these systems:

Headlamps Taillamps Parking Lamps License Lamps Sidemarker Lamps Instrument Panel Lights

Press the LIGHTS switch to turn the headlamps on. Press it again to turn them off. Press the PARK switch to turn the parking lamps on. Press it again to turn them off. (If the parking lamps were turned on with the PARK switch, they must be turned off with that switch.) Lamps On Reminder If you leave the manual headlamp or parking lamp switch on, remove the key from the ignition and open the driver’s door, you will hear a continuous warning chime. The chime will turn off when the lamps are turned off. Daytime Running Lamps (Canada Only) Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be’helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. A light sensor on top of the instrument panel monitors