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TIRE-LOADING INFORMATION VEHICLE


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Your vehicle can be towed using a dolly. To tow your vehicle using a dolly, follow these steps:


1. Put the front wheels on a dolly. 2. Put the vehicle in PARK (P). 3. Set the parking brake and then remove the key. 4. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead


position.


5. Releases the parking brake.


Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. The Tire-Loading Information label is inside the trunk lid. The label tells you the proper size, speed rating and recommended inflation pressures for the tires on your vehicle. It also gives you important information about the number of people that can be in your vehicle and the total weight you can carry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo and all nonfactory-installed options.


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The other label is the Certification label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. If you do have a heavy load, spread it out. Don’t carry more than 167 Ibs (75 kg) in your trunk.


Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.


Nofice: Your warranty does not cover parts or components that fail because of overloading.


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If you put things inside your vehicle - like suitcases, tools, packages or anything else - they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they’ll keep going.


Towing a Trailer


Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash.


Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a trunk, put them as far forward as you can. Try to spread the weight evenly. Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats. Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can. Don’t leave a seat folded down unless you need to.


If you don’t use the correc qui, nent and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well -- or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. You may also damage your vehicle; the resulting repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.


Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer’’ that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself.


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Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer. Load-pulling components such as the engine, transaxle, wheel assemblies and tires are forced to work harder against the drag of the added weight. The engine is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads, generating extra heat. What’s more, the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements. If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points:


There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls.


0 Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 1,000 miles


(1 600 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.


0 Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you


tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a trailer. Don’t drive faster than the maximum posted speed for trailers, or no more than 55 mph (90 km/h), to save wear on your vehicle’s parts.


Three important considerations have to do with weight:


the weight of the trailer, the weight of the trailer tongue


* and the total weight on your vehicle’s tires. Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 1,000 Ibs (450 kg). But even that can be too heavy. It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. And, it can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle.


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You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Buick Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33136 Detroit, MI 48232-51 36 In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L I H 8P7 Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32 for more information about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity.


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If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch or a weight-distributing hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10-15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.


Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Tire-Loading Information label (found inside the trunk iid) or see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: 0 The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for


hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to it. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper.


0 Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don’t seal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle. See Engine Exhaust on page 2-30. Dirt and water can, too.


Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. Trailer Brakes Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into your vehicle’s brake system. If you do, both brake systems won’t work well, or at all. Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself.


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Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working. Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.


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Making Turns


Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering. When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance. Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your dealer. The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop. When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working.


Driving On Grades


Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce your speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce the possibility of engine and transaxle overheating. If you are towing a trailer, you may want to drive in THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@ ). Shift to a lower gear as needed. Parking on Hills


You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.


But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into


PARK (P) yet.


2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer’s


wheels.


3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.


4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your


parking brake, and shift to PARK (P).


5. Release the regular brakes. When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down


while you: * start your engine,


shift into a gear, and release the parking brake.


2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the


chocks.


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Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing Your cooling system may temporarily overheat during severe operating conditions. See Engine Overheating on page 5-26.


Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transaxle fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, drive belt, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review this information before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.


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Section 5 Service and Appearance Care


Service ............................................................ 5.3 ......................... 5.4


Doing Your Own Service Work Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your


.....................


Vehicle ...................................................... 5.4 Fuel ................................................................ 5.5 Gasoline Octane ............................................ 5.5 Gasoline Specifications .................................... 5.5 .................. 5.6 California Fuel Additives ....................................................... 5.6 Fuels in Foreign Countries ............................... 5.6 Filling Your Tank ............................................ 5-7 Filling a Portable Fuel Container ....................... 5-9 Checking Things Under the Hood .................... 5-10 Hood Release .............................................. 5.11 Engine Compartment Overview ....................... 5.12 Engine Oil ................................................... 5.15 Supercharger Oil .......................................... 5.20 Engine Air CleanedFilter ................................ 5.20 ........ -5-22 Automatic Transaxle Engine Coolant ............................................. 5.24 Radiator Pressure Cap .................................. 5.27 Engine Overheating ....................................... 5.27 Cooling System ............................................ 5.30


Fluid ..............


Power Steering Fluid ................................. 5.38 Windshield Washer Fluid ....... ............ -5-39 Brakes ............................... ............. -5-4 1 Battery ........................................................ 5.44 Jump Starting ..............................................


-5-45 Headlamp Aiming ........................................... 5-50 Bulb Replacement .......................................... 5.52 Halogen Bulbs .............................................. 5.52 Headlamps .................................................. 5.52 Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps .............. 5-53 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) ......... 5.54 Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps ............ 5.55 Back-up Lamps ............................................ 5-56 Replacement Bulbs ....................................... 5-56 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement .............. 5.57 Tires .............................................................. 5.58 Inflation .. Tire Pressure ................................ 5.58 Tire Pressure Monitor System ......................... 5.59 Tire Inspection and Rotation ........................... 5.61 When It Is Time for New Tires ....................... Buying New Tires ......................................... 5.62 Uniform Tire Quality Grading .......................... 5.63


5-62


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Section 5


Service and Appearance Care


Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance .................. 5-64 Wheel Replacement ...................................... 5-65 Tire Chains .................................................. 5-66 If a Tire Goes Flat ........................................ 5-67 Changing a Flat Tire ..................................... 5-67 Compact Spare Tire ...................................... 5-79 Appearance Care ............................................ 5-80 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle ................. 5-80 Care of Safety Belts ...................................... 5-82 Weatherstrips ............................................ 5-83 ..... 5-83 Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle .. Sheet Metal Damage ..................... ..... 5-85 Finish Damage ............................. ......... 5-85 Underbody Maintenance ................................ 5-85 Chemical Paint Spotting ................................. 5-86 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials ........... 5-86


Vehicle Identification ...................................... 5.88 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ................. 5.88 Service Parts Identification Label ..................... 5-88 Electrical System ............................................ 5-89 Add-on Electrical Equipment .......................... 5-89 Headlamp Wiring .......................................... 5-89 Windshield Wiper Fuses ................................ 5.89 Power Windows and Other Power Options ....... 5-89 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ............................ 5-90 Capacities and Specifications .......................... 5.95 Capacities and Specifications ......................... 5.95 .......... 5.96


Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts


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Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:


rts


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Doing Your Own Service Work


If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 7-9. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-58. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See Part E: Maintenance Record on page 6- 16.


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You ,A be injured and your ve ... :le co-.J be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it.


Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “English” and “metric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.


Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle.


Fuel The 8th digit of your vehicle identification number (VIN) shows the code letter or number that identifies your engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of the instrument panel. See Vehicle identification Number (VIN) on page 5-88. Gasoline Octane If your vehicle has the 3800 V6 engine (VIN Code K), use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane of 87 or higher. If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higer as soon as possible. Otherwise, you might damage your engine. A little pinging noise when you accelerate or drive uphill is considered normal. This does not indicate a problem exists or that a higher-octane fuel is necessary. If you are using 87 octane or higher-octane fuel and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. If your vehicle has the 3800 Supercharged V6 engine (VIN Code I), use only premium unleaded gasoline with a posted octane of 91 or higher. In an emergency, you may be able to use a lower octane - as low as 87 - if heavy knocking does not occur. Refill your tank with premium fuel as soon as possible. Otherwise, you might damage your engine. If you are using 91 octane or higher-octane fuel and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service.


Gasoline Specifications It is recommended that gasoline meet specifications which were developed by the American Automobile Manufacturers Association and endorsed by the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association for better vehicle performance and engine protection. Gasoline meeting these specifications could provide improved driveability and emission control system performance compared to other gasoline.


In Canada, look for the “Auto Makers’ Choice’’ label on the pump.


Canada Only


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California Fuel If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (see the underhood emission control label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If this fuel is not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on (see Malfunction lndicator Lamp on page 3-36 ) and your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for diagnosis. If it is determined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing your emission control system to work properly. You should not have to add anything to your fuel. Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area to contribute to clean air. General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines, particularly if they comply with the specifications described earlier.


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Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Don’t use fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage the plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty. Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions may contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask the attendant where you buy gasoline whether the fuel contains MMT. General Motors does not recommend the use of such gasolines. Fuels containing MMT can reduce the life of spark plugs and the performance of the emission control system may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for service. Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving.


Filling Your Tank


Fuel vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from fuel.


Turn your vehicle off to refuel. The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged door on the driver’s side of your vehicle.


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A CAUTION:


If you get fuel on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly and wait for any “hiss” noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.


Be careful not to spill fuel. Clean fuel from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle on page 5-83. When filling the tank do not overfill by squeezing in much more fuel after the pump shuts off.


While refueling, let the fuel cap hang by the tether below the fuel fill opening. To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The fuel cap has a spring in it; if you let go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.


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When you put the fuel cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 3-36.


Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. the wrong type, it may not fit properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and may damage your fuel tank and emissions system. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.


If you get


4 a Po-’-Ve Fuel Cor’ainer


Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others:


Dispense gasoline only into approved containers.


0 Do not fill a container while it is inside a


vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed or on any surface other than the ground. Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the inside of the fill opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the filling is complete. Don’t smoke while pumping gasoline.


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Checking Things Under the H-od


An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.


Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.


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Hood Release To open the hood, do the following:


1. Pull the handle inside


the vehicle, located just below the instrument panel and to the left of the steering column.


2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood release by pushing it to the right.


3. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly.


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Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the 3800 V6 engine, you'll see:


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A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir B. Battery C. Remote Positive (+) Battery Terminal D. Underhood Fuse Block E. Radiator Pressure Cap F. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank G. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (Below Generator)


H. Electric Cooling Fan I. Engine Oil Dipstick J. Engine Oil Fill Cap K. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick L. Brake Fluid Reservoir M. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter


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When you open the hood on the 3800 V6 Supercharged engine, you’ll see:


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A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir B. Battery C. Remote Positive (+) Battery Terminal D. Underhood Electrical Center E. Radiator Pressure Cap F. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank G. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (Below Generator) H. Electric Cooling Fan I. Engine Oil Dipstick J. Engine Oil Fill Cap K. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick L. Brake Fluid Reservoir M. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Engine Oil


LOW OIL


If the LOW OIL light appears on the instrument cluster, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see Low Oil Level Light on page 3-40.


You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder.


Checking Engine Oil It’s a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.


The engine oil dipstick handle is the yellow loop located near the front of the engine compartment. See Engine Comparfment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.


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Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.


Notice: Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged.


The engine oil fill cap is located toward the front of the engine near the yellow-looped engine oil dipstick handle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5- 12 for more information on location.


When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications on page 5-95.


Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range in the cross-hatched area. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through.


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What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the starburst symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this starburst symbol.


a JASOUNE


If you choose to perform the engine oil change service yourself, be sure the oil you use has the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. If you have your oil changed for you, be sure the oil put into your engine is American Petroleum Institute certified for gasoline engines.


You should also use the proper viscosity oil for your vehicle, as shown in the viscosity chart.


RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS


SELECT THE LOWEST FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE.


. ~..


._._ ~.


- .-


HOT


WEATHER


LOOK


FOR MIS SYMBOL


above 0°F


DO NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED


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SAE IOW-30 is the viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 5W-30 if it's going to be colder than 60°F (1 6°C) before your next oil change. When it's very cold, colder than 0°F (-18"C), you should use an SAE 5W-30 oil. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity grade oils, such as SAE 1OW-40 or SAE 2OW-50 under any conditions. Notice: Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty. GM Goodwrench@ oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20°F (-29"C), it is recommended that you use either and SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or and SAE OW-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures. Engine Oil Additives


Don't add anything to your oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol are all you will need for good performance and engine protection.


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When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil Life SystemTM) Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change will be indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, you must reset the system every time the oil is changed. When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE OIL SOON light will come on. Change your oil as soon as possible within the next two times you stop for fuel. It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the oil life system may not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. It is also important to check your oil regularly and keep it at the proper level. If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.


How to Reset the CHANGE OIL SOON Light The GM Oil Life SystemTM calculates when to change your engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. Anytime your oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change your oil prior to a CHANGE OIL SOON light being turned on, reset the system. After changing the engine oil, reset the system by performing the following steps: 1. With the engine off, turn the ignition key to RUN. 2. Fully push and release the accelerator pedal slowly


three times within five seconds. If the CHANGE OIL SOON light flashes, the system is resetting.


3. Turn the key to OFF, then start the vehicle. The oil


life will change to 100 percent.


If the CHANGE OIL SOON light comes back on, the system has not reset. Repeat the procedure.


If you have a Driver Information Center, the system may be reset by pressing the DIC RESET button for five seconds while viewing the oil life display on the DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-44. What to Do with Used Oil Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products. Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.


5-1 9


Supercharger Oil


Unless you are technically qualified and have the proper tools, you should let your dealer or a qualified service center perform this maintenance.


If yo, IkmI1ove the supe,,,larger oi, while the engine is hot, pressure may cause hot oil to blow out of the oil fill hole. You may be burned. Do not remove the plug until the engine cools.


1. Clean the area around the oil fill plug before


removing it.


When to Check Check oil level every 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or every 36 months, whichever occurs first. What Kind of Oil to Use Use only the recommended supercharger oil. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6- 15. How to Check and Add Oil Park the vehicle on a level surface. Check oil only when the engine is cold. Allow the engine to cool two to three hours after running.


5-20


2. Remove the oil fill plug. 3. The oil level is correct when it just reaches the


bottom of the threads of the inspection hole. 4. Replace the oil plug with the O-ring in place.


Tighten to 88 Ib in (10 N-m ).


Engine Air CleanedFilter The engine air cleanedfilter is located underneath a diagonal brace in the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location.


To check or replace the engine air cleaner/filter, do the following: 1. Loosen the screw and clamp on the air duct.


2. Lift up on the two clips


located on the top of the filter assembly.


Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4.


3. Then disconnect the duct and reposition it while


removing the side cover.


4. Pull out the filter. 5. Replace the filter if needed. 6. Be sure to reinstall the filter and install the cover


tightly when you are finished.


Operating the engine with the air cleanedfilter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/filter off.


Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleanedfilter in place when you’re driving.


5-2 1


Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:


In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher. In hilly or mountainous terrain. When doing frequent trailer towing. Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.


If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, change the fluid and filter at 100,000 miles (1 66 000 km). See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4.


5-22


How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transaxle. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transaxle to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid. Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: 0 When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). 0 At high speed for quite a while.


In heavy traffic - especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer.


To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (1 0°C). If it's colder than 50°F (lO°C), you may have to drive longer.


Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: 0 Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine


running.


* With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever


in PARK (P). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P).


e Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes. Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:


The automatic transaxle fluid dipstick handle is the black loop located toward the rear of the engine. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location.


1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or


paper towel.


2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and


then pull it back out again.


3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the


lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area.


4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the


dipstick back in all the way.


How to Add Fluid


Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See fat? D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-15. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick.


5-23


1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the


dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Don’t overfN.


Notice: We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-Ill, because fluid with that label is made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON@-Ill is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. 3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as


described under “How to Check,” earlier in this section.


4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the


dipstick back in all the way.


Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL@ engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only DEX-COOL@ extended life coolant.


The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating or if you need to add coolant to your radiator, see Engine Overheating on page 5-27. A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL@ coolant will:


Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C). Give boiling protection up to 265°F (1 29°C). Protect against rust and corrosion.


0 Help keep the proper engine temperature.


Let the warning lights and gages work as they should.


Notice: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOL@ (silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL@ is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the engine -- at 30,000 miles coolant will require change sooner (50,000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the use of coolant other than DEX-COOL@ is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.


5-24


What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOL@ coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don” -eed to add anything else.


Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL@ coolant.


Notice: If you use an improper coolant mixture, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.


If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system.


Notice: If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system. These can be harmful. Checking Coolant The engine coolant recovery tank is located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle at the rear of the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location.


The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the COLD mark or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to the HOT mark or a little higher.


5-25


Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it. If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty, add coolant to the radiator. See Engine Overheating on page 5-27.


stor pressure cap when the


Turning the rE engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap -- even a little --when the engine and radiator are hot.


You ca.. u1 burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.


Occasionally check the coolant level in the radiator. For information on how to add coolant to the radiator, see Cooling System on page 5-30.


5-26


Radiator Pressure Cap Notice: Your radiator cap is a pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiator filler neck. The radiator pressure cap is located near the front of the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage and a hot engine warning light on your instrument panel. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 3-35 and Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light on page 3-35.


Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode


This emergency operating mode allows your vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, you will notice a significant loss in power and engine performance. The temperature gage will indicate an overheat condition exists. Driving extended miles (km) and/or towing a trailer in the overheat protection mode should be avoided. Notice: After driving in the overheated engine protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage, allow the engine to cool before attempting any repair. The engine oil will be severely degraded. Repair the cause of coolant loss, change the oil and reset the oil life system. See “Engine Oil” in the Index.


5-27


If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine


Stean ‘on n overheated engine can you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get


burn


(Continued) I


CAUTION:


5-28


everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood. If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.


Notice: If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.


If No Steam Is Corning From Your Engine An overheat warning can indicate a serious problem. See Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light on page 3-35. If you get an engine overheat warning, but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you:


Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer.


If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so:


1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in NEUTRAL (N) while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and engine idle.


let the


2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan


speed and open the window as necessary.


If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues, and you have not stopped, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for three minutes while you’re parked. If you still have the warning, turn off the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. Also, see “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode’’ listed previously in this section. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.


5-29


Cooling System


When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see:


. ....


A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Electric Cooling Fans C. Radiator Pressure Cap


5-30


An electric engine cooling fan under the huud can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.


If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. The vehicle should be parked on a level surface.


When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the COLD mark on the coolant recovery tank.


If it isn’t, you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.


Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.


If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check to see if the electric engine cooling fans are running. If the engine is overheating, both fans should be running. If they aren’t, your vehicle needs service


Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.


Notice: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOL~ (silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL@ is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the engine coolant will require change sooner - at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the use of coolant other than DEX-CQOL@ is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.


5-31


I


How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL@ engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. See Engine Coolant on page 5-24 for more information.


Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX COOL@ coolant.


Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture.


5-32


You can be burned if you spill coolal.. on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.


When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the COLD mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there's one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.


Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap -- even a little -- they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.


How to Add Coolant to the Radiator Notice: Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure. Failure to follow this procedure could cause your engine to overheat and be severely damaged. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. Don't press down while turning the pressure cap.


5-33


1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when


the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.


2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push


down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.


You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.


5-34


3. Remove the 3800 Series I1 V6 engine cover shield


to access the bleed valve.


3.1. Clean the area around the engine oil fill tube


and cap before removing. Twist the oil fill tube, with cap attached, counterclockwise and remove it.


3.2.


3.3.


3.4.


If you have the supercharged engine, remove the nut in the center of the cover shield. Lift the engine cover shield at the front, slide the catch tab out of the engine bracket and remove the cover shield. Put the oil fill tube, with cap attached, in the valve cover oil fill hole until you’re ready to replace the cover shield.


5-35


7. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from the engine


and the compartment.


8. Replace the 3800 Series II V6 engine cover shield. 8.1. Remove the oil fill tube, with cap attached,


from the valve cover.


8.2. Insert the catch tab on the cover shield


under the bracket on the engine.


8.3. Place the hole in the cover shield over the


hole in the valve cover. Install oil fill tube and cap by twisting clockwise.


8.4. If you have the supercharged engine,


install


the nut in the center of the cover shield.


4. After the engine cools,


open the coolant air bleed valve. The bleed valve is located on the thermostat housing.


5. Fill the radiator with the


proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. See Engine Coolant on page 5-24 for more information about the proper coolant mixture.


6. If you see a stream of coolant coming from an air bleed valve, close the valve. Otherwise, close the valve after the radiator is filled.


5-36


9. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD


mark on the coolant recovery tank.


10. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but


leave the radiator pressure cap off.


11.


12.


Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.


5-37


Power Steering Fluid


13. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during


this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrow on the pressure cap lines up like this.


14. Check the coolant in the recovery tank. The level in


the coolant recovery tank should be at the HOT mark when the engine is hot or at the COLD mark when the engine is cold.


5-38


The power steering fluid reservoir is located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle at the back of the engine compartment, and can be identified by the above graphic on the cap. When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5- 12 for reservoir location.


How to Check Power Steering Fluid Turn the key off, let the engine compartment cool down, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.


What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, see Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-15. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for reservoir location.


If the fluid is at the ADD mark, you should add fluid. When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the HOT mark.


5-39


Adding Washer Fluid


Notice:


When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid. Fill your washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. Don’t use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.


5-40


Brakes


Your brake master cylinder reservoir is on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. It is filled with BOT-3 brake fluid. See Engine Comparfment Overview on page 5- 12.


There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.


If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.


5-4 1


11


BRAKE


States


United


When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake warning light will come on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-32. What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6- 15. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir.


With the wrong kind of fluid in YUUI brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.


Notice:


Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced. Don’t let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See “Appearance Care” in the Index.


5-42


Brake Wear Your vehicle has four-wheel disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).


The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.


Notice: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.


Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque specifications. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. See Brake System Inspection on page 6-14. Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you apply the brakes, with or without the vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.


5-43


Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system - for example, when your brake linings wear down and you need new ones put in - be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change - for the worse. The braking performance you’ve come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts. Battery Your new vehicle comes with a maintenance free ACDelco@ battery. When it’s time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label. We recommend an ACDelco@ battery. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for battery location. Warning: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.


5-44


If your battery has a very low charge or is dead, you may not be able to remove the ignition key from the ignition switch or shift out of Park (P). Refer to Shifting Out of Park (P) on page 2-26. Vehicle Storage If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, remove the black, negative (-) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from runn’


1 down.


-es have acid t. . A can __ x n you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” next for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.


Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods. Also, for your audio system, see Theft-Deterrent Feature on page 3-56.


Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to follow the steps below to do it safely.


Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous


They contain acid that can burn you. 0 They contain gas that can explode or


0 They contain enough electricity to


If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some


Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it won’t work, and it could damage your vehicle.


1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt


battery with a negative ground system.


Notice: If the other system isn’t a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle in NEUTRAL (N) before setting the parking brake.


Notice: If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug


unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or in the auxiliary power outlet. Turn off the radio and all lamps that aren’t needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio!


5-45


An electric fan can start up even ... Jen the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.


Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the ACDelco@ battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present.


CAUTION:


(Continued)


4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the


positive (+) and negative (-) terminal location on each vehicle. You will not need to access your battery for jump starting. Your vehicle has a remote positive (+) jump starting terminal for that purpose. The terminal is located on the same side of the engine compartment as your battery. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5- 12 for more information on location. To uncover the remote positive (+) terminal, squeeze the sides of the red plastic cap and pull the cap upward. You should always use the remote positive (+) terminal instead of the positive (+) terminal on your battery.


5-46


Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Don’t get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.


Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running.


5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or


missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative (-) will go to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (-) terminal if the vehicle has one.


Don’t connect positive (+) to negative (-) or you’ll get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts too. And don’t connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal on the dead battery because this can cause sparks.


6. Connect the red (+) cable to the positive (+)


terminal of the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.


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7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.


Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (-) cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal part, or to the remote negative (-) terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery.


9. Connect the other end of the negative (-) cable at


least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, and the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less.


8. Now connect the


negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote negative (-) terminal if the vehicle has one.


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IO. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run


the engine for a while.


11. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service.


A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part or Remote


Negative (-) Terminal


Notice: Damage to your vehicle may result from electrical shorting if jumper cables are removed incorrectly. To prevent electrical shorting, take care that the cables don’t touch each other or any other metal. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.


9. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) and Remote


Negative (-) Terminals


C. Dead Battery or Remote Positive (+) Terminal To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles do the following: 1. Disconnect the black negative (-) cable from the


vehicle that had the dead battery.


2. Disconnect the black negative (-) cable from the


vehicle with the good battery.


3. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the


vehicle with the good battery.


4. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the other


vehicle.


5. Return the remote positive (+) terminal cover to its


original position.


Jumper Cable Removal


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Headlamp Aiming Your vehicle has a headlamp system equipped with horizontal and vertical aim indicators. The aim has been pre-set at the factory and should need no further adjustment. This is true even though your vertical and horizontal aim indicators may not fall exactly on the “ 0 (zero) marks on their scales. If your vehicle is damaged in an accident, the headlamp aim may be affected. Aim adjustment may be necessary if it is difficult to see lane markers (for horizontal aim), or if oncoming drivers flash their high beams at you (for vertical aim). If you believe your headlamps need to be re-aimed, we recommend that you take it to your dealer for service; however, it is possible for you to re-aim your headlamps as described in the following procedure. Notice: To make sure your headlamps are aimed properly, read all the instructions before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to headlamp parts.


To check the aim, the vehicle should be properly prepared as follows:


The headlamps must be off for one hour prior to aiming and must remain off during this procedure. The vehicle must have all four tires on a perfectly level surface. If necessary, pads may be used on an uneven surface. The vehicle should not have any snow, ice or mud attached to it. The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being done. There should not be any cargo or loading of the vehicle, except it should have a full tank of fuel and one person or 160 Ibs (75 kg) on the driver’s seat. Close all doors. Tires should be properly inflated. Rock the vehicle to stabilize the suspension.


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Driver’s Side Headlamp Shown


Passenger’s Side Headlamp Shown


A. Vertical Aim Adjustment Screw B. Horizontal Aim Adjustment Screw Open the hood and locate the vertical and horizontal aim indicators. The aiming screw for the vertical aim indicator (A) is at the center of the headlamp cover and the aiming screw for the horizontal aim indicator is on the outboard side of the headlamp cover (B).


A. Horizontal Aim Adjustment Screw B. Horizontal Block Index Plate C. Vertical Aiming Level Start with the horizontal aim. The adjustment screws can be turned with an E8 Torx@ socket. Once the horizontal aim is adjusted, then adjust the vertical aim.


1. Turn the horizontal aiming screw until the indicator


is lined up with zero.


2. Turn the vertical aiming screw until the level bubble


is lined up with zero.


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Bulb Replacement For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer. For the type of bulb, see Replacement Bulbs on page 5-56.


Headlamps 1. Open the hood.


Halogen Bulbs


.red gas inside


bulb- .rave pressL..


Ha- and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package.


2. Pull up on the headlamp retainers (A) to release the


assembly locator tabs.


3. Disconnect the electrical connector (6) from the


headlamp assembly.


4. Slide the headlamp assembly out of the slots.


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Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps 1. Remove the headlamp assembly. Refer to the


removal procedure earlier in this section.


2. Remove the rubber bulb access cover. 3. Twist the sidemarker lamp socket, located on the


outboard side of the headlamp assembly, counterclockwise and pull it from the headlamp assembly.


4. Holding the base of the socket, pull the old bulb


from the socket.


5. Push the new bulb into the socket. 6. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 to reinstall the lamp


assembly.


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5.


6.


7.


8.


9. 10.


Remove the rubber access cover from behind the bulb you are replacing. Turn the bulb socket one-quarter turn and remove it from the headlamp assembly. Lift the plastic locking tab on the electrical connector and pull the connector from the headlamp bulb socket. Connect the new headlamp bulb to the electrical connector, making sure the connector tab snaps into place. Insert the bulb socket into the headlamp assembly. Reverse all steps to reassemble the headlamp assembly, then check the lamps.


Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) 1. Open the trunk.


2. Reach through the access opening in the trunk lid.


3. Remove the old bulb by turning it one-quarter turn


counterclockwise.


4. Push the new bulb into the bulb socket. 5. Turn the socket one-quarter turn clockwise to


reinstall.


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Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stsplamps


3. Remove the three plastic wing nuts (A).


There is one wing nut located on the outside of the carpet. The other two are located underneath the carpet.


4. Pull the taillamp housing (B) away from the body of


the vehicle.


5. Squeeze the tab on the socket and turn the socket


counterclockwise. 6. Pull out the socket. 7. Pull the old bulb out of the socket. (There are two


bulbs on each taillamp.)


8. Push in a new bulb. 9. Reverse these steps to reinstall the lamp assembly


1. Open the trunk. 2. If your vehicle is equipped with a convenience net,


remove it.


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Back-up Lamps


5. Twist and/or pull the old bulb from the bulb


socket.


6. Twist and/or push the new bulb into the lamp


socket.


7. Twist and/or push the lamp socket into the trunk


lid covering.


8. Reverse Steps 2 and 3 to reinstall the lamp


covering.


Exterior Lamps


Replacement Bulbs I Bulb Number 1 1156


31 55


Back-up (Applique) Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) Front Turn Signal and Parking


I Lamps Headlamps, High Beam

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