2002 Buick Rendezvous Owners Manual

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D shift into a gear, and D 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. 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, belts, 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 these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight. 4-44 Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. 5-2 5-2 5-3 5-9 5-9 Hazard Warning Flashers Other Warning Devices Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engine Overheating 5-12 5-19 5-20 5-40 5-41 Cooling System If a Tire Goes Flat Changing a Flat Tire Compact Spare Tire If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow 5- 5-1 Hazard Warning Flashers The hazard warning flasher button is located on top of the steering column. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in. Press the button to make the front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Press the button again to turn the flashers off. When the hazard warning flashers are on, the turn signals won’t work. Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. 5-2 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. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: D They contain acid that can burn you. D They contain gas that can explode or ignite. D They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you. NOTICE: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. The ACDelcoR battery in your vehicle has a built-in hydrometer. Do not charge, test or jump start the battery if the hydrometer looks clear or light yellow. Replace the battery when there is a clear or light yellow hydrometer and a cranking complaint. 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. 5-3 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 starting procedure. Put an automatic transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake. NOTICE: 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals 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 under a tethered cap at the front of the underhood fuse and relay center. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. Flip the cap up to access the remote positive (+) terminal. You should always use the remote positive (+) terminal instead of the positive (+) terminal on the battery. If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. CAUTION: 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or in the accessory power outlet(s). Turn off the radios and all lamps that aren’t needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio! 5-4 An electric fan 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. CAUTION: CAUTION: 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 ACDelcoR battery installed in every new GM 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. 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. 5-5 6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 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. 8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote negative (-) 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 engine part or to a remote negative (-) terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery. 5-6 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. 10. 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. 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. 5-7 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 A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part or Remote Negative (-) Terminal B. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) and Remote Negative (-) Terminals C. Dead Battery or Remote Positive (+) Terminal 5-8 Towing Your Vehicle Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if you need to have your vehicle towed. See “Roadside Assistance” and “Recreational Vehicle Towing” in the Index. Engine Overheating You will find an engine coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” in the Index. You also have an engine coolant temperature warning message on your instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Message” in the Index. 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. 5-9 If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn 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 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. 5-10 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. If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine 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: D Climb a long hill on a hot day. D Stop after high-speed driving. D Idle for long periods in traffic. D Tow a trailer. If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. If your air conditioner is on, turn it off. 2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan speed and open the window as necessary. 3. If you’re in a traffic jam, shift to NEUTRAL (N); otherwise, shift to the highest gear while driving -- AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D). 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, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, 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. 5-11 Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: CAUTION: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood 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. A. Radiator Pressure Cap B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans C. Coolant Recovery Tank 5-12 When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. CAUTION: 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. NOTICE: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index. NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOLR (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-COOLR is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. 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. 5-13 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOLR engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information. 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. CAUTION: 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-COOLR coolant. 5-14 CAUTION: (Continued) 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 the radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap. CAUTION: 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. When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above the FULL 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. CAUTION: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. CAUTION: (Continued) 5-15 How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 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. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. (Don’t press down while turning the pressure cap.) 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. CAUTION: 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. 5-16 Housing Bypass Tube 3. After the engine cools, open the coolant air bleed valves. There are two bleed valves. One is located on the thermostat housing. The other is located on the thermostat bypass tube. 4. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOLR coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mixture. If you see a stream of coolant coming from an air bleed valve, close the valve. Otherwise, close the valves after the radiator is filled. 5. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from the engine and the compartment. 5-17 6. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. 7. 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-COOLR coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck. 8. 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 arrows on the pressure cap line up like this. 5-18 9. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL COLD mark. 10. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank. If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane. A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you’d use in a skid. In any rear blowout, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop -- well off the road if possible. If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use your jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely. 5-19 Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers. CAUTION: Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured. Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving: 1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P). 3. Turn off the engine. To be even more certain the vehicle won’t move, you can put blocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side of the vehicle, at the opposite end. 5-20 The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll need is located in the storage compartment at the rear of the vehicle, on the passenger’s side. 1. Open the jack storage compartment by lifting up the tab and pulling the cover off. 2. Remove the jack and jacking tools by turning the wing nut counterclockwise. 3. Separate the jack by lifting up the jack from the bracket tab and remove the folding wrench from the jack. A. Jack B. Wing Nut and Screw C. Jacking Instructions D. Folding Wrench E. Wing Nut F. J-Hook The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A), folding wrench (B), extension tube (C), wing nut (D), and J-hook (E). 5-21 Removing the Spare Tire (Vehicles without the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray) The compact spare tire is located under the vehicle, ahead of the rear bumper. Use the spare tire hoist to raise, lower and store the compact spare tire. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section for more information about the compact spare. 1. Flip the rear cargo area carpet cut out to expose the hoist shaft. 2. Attach the folding wrench into the hoist shaft. 3. Turn the folding wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground. Continue turning the wrench until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle. A. Hoist Shaft B. Folding Wrench C. Hoist Assembly D. Retainer E. Compact Spare Tire 4. To remove the spare tire from the cable, tilt the retainer and slip it through the wheel opening. 5-22 5. After removing the spare tire, turn the wrench clockwise to raise the cable back up. Do not store a full-size or a flat road tire under the vehicle. See “Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools” later in this section. To continue changing the flat tire see “Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire” later in this section. If the spare tire will not lower, the secondary latch may be engaged and causing the tire not to lower. Do the following to check the cable: 1. Check under the vehicle to see if the cable is visible. 2. If not visible, see “Secondary Latch System” later in this section. If visible, first try to tighten the cable by turning the folding wrench clockwise until you hear two clicks or feel it skip twice. You can not overtighten the cable. 3. Loosen the cable by turning the wrench counterclockwise three or four turns. 4. Repeat this procedure at least two times. 5. If you still cannot lower the spare tire to the ground, see “Secondary Latch System” later in this section. 6. If the spare tire did lower to the ground, continue with Step 4 under “Removing the Spare Tire (Vehicles without the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray)”. 5-23 Removing the Spare Tire (Vehicles with the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray) (Optional) The compact spare tire is located under the vehicle, ahead of the rear bumper. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section for more information about the compact spare. 1. Open the storage compartment door of the convenience/cargo tray that is nearest the liftgate and remove the cap on the bottom of the storage compartment. 2. Flip the cut out carpet that is located through the hole of the storage compartment. 3. Remove the extension tube that is attached on the passenger side of the center storage compartment. 4. Insert one end of the extension tube to the hoist shaft and attach the folding wrench to the other end of the tube. 5. Turn the folding wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground. Continue turning the wrench until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle. E. Hoist Shaft F. Compact Spare Tire G. Retainer H. Hoist Shaft Assembly A. Rear Convenience/ Cargo Tray B. Folding Wrench C. Extension Tube D. Storage Compartment Cap Hole 5-24 6. To remove the spare tire from the cable, tilt the retainer and slip it through the wheel opening. 7. After removing the spare tire, turn the wrench clockwise to raise the cable back up. Do not store a full-size or a flat road tire under the vehicle. See “Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools” later in this section. To continue changing the flat tire see “Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire” later in this section. If the spare tire will not lower, the secondary latch may be engaged and causing the tire not to lower. Do the following to check the cable: 1. Check under the vehicle to see if the cable is visible. 2. If not visible, see “Secondary Latch System” later in this section. If visible, first try to tighten the cable by turning the folding wrench clockwise until you hear two clicks or feel it skip twice. You can not overtighten the cable. 5-25 3. Loosen the cable by turning the wrench counterclockwise three or four turns. 4. Repeat this procedure at least two times. 5. If you still cannot lower the spare tire to the ground, see “Secondary Latch System” later in this section. 6. If the spare tire did lower to the ground, continue with Step 6 under “Removing the Spare Tire (Vehicles with the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray)”. Secondary Latch System The spare tire hoist assembly is equipped with a secondary latch system. It’s designed to stop the spare tire from suddenly falling off your vehicle if the cable holding the spare tire is damaged. For the secondary latch to work, the spare tire must be stowed with the valve stem pointing down. See “Storing the Spare Tire and Tools” in the Index for instructions on storing the spare tire correctly. 5-26 CAUTION: Before beginning this procedure read all the instructions. Failure to read and follow the instructions could damage the hoist assembly and you and others could get hurt. Read and follow the instructions listed below. To release the spare tire from the secondary latch, do the following: CAUTION: Someone standing too close during the the procedure could be injured by the jack. If the spare tire does not slide off the jack completely, make sure no one is behind you or on either side of you as you pull the jack out from under the spare. 1. If the cable is not visible, start this procedure at Step 3. 2. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until approximately 6 inches (15 cm) of cable is exposed. 5. Turn the folding wrench clockwise to raise the jack until it lifts the secondary latch spring. 3. Attach the folding wrench to the jack and raise the jack at least 10 turns. 4. Place the jack under the vehicle, ahead of the rear bumper. Position the center lift point of the jack under the center of the spare tire. 6. Keep raising the jack until the spare tire stops moving upward and is held firmly in place, this lets you know that the secondary latch has released 5-27 7. Lower the jack by turning the folding wrench counterclockwise. Keep lowering the jack until the spare tire is resting on the folding wrench. 5-28 8. Grasp the spare tire with both hands and pull it out from under the vehicle. 9. Reach under the vehicle and remove the folding wrench and jack. 10. When the spare tire has been completely lowered, tilt the retainer and slip it through the wheel opening. 11. If the cable is hanging, turn the wrench clockwise to raise the cable back up. Have the hoist assembly inspected as soon as you can. You will not be able to store a spare or flat tire using the hoist assembly until it has been repaired or replaced. Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 1. If there is a wheel cover, loosen the plastic nut caps with the wheel wrench. They won’t come off. Then, using the flat end of the wheel wrench, pry along the edge of the cover until it comes off. Be careful; the edges may be sharp. Don’t try to remove the cover with your bare hands. If your vehicle has aluminum wheels, remove the wheel nut caps using the wheel wrench. For wheels with a wheel lock key, use the wheel lock key between the lock nut and folding wrench. The key is supplied in the front passenger door pocket. NOTICE: To help avoid damage to lock nut or wheel lock key, do not use an impact wrench with this key. 2. Loosen the wheel nuts -- but do not remove them -- using the folding wrench. (Turn the handle about 180 degrees, then flip the handle back to the starting position. This avoids taking the wrench off the lug nut for each turn.) 3. Near each wheel, there is a notch in the vehicle’s body. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly into the notch in the vehicle’s frame nearest the flat tire. 5-29 Do not raise the vehicle yet. Put the compact spare tire near you. CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle. NOTICE: Do not place the jack under the rear axle control arms. Only use the areas shown for proper jack location. 5-30 4. Attach the folding wrench to the jack, and turn the wrench clockwise to raise the jack head 3 inches (7.6 cm). 5. Raise the vehicle by turning the folding wrench clockwise in the jack. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so that there is enough room for the spare tire to fit under the wheel well. 6. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. 7. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off. CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 5-31 8. Install the spare tire and put the wheel nuts back on with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. 10. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence, as shown. CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 100 lb-ft (140 N·m). 9. Lower the vehicle by attaching the folding wrench to the jack and turning the wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. 5-32 NOTICE: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. 11. Don’t try to put a wheel cover on the compact spare tire. It won’t fit. Store the wheel cover securely in the rear of the vehicle until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced. CAUTION: NOTICE: Wheel covers won’t fit on your compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on your compact spare, you could damage the cover or the spare. The underbody-mounted spare tire needs to be stored with the valve stem pointing down. If the spare tire is stored with its valve stem pointing upwards, its secondary latch won’t work properly, and the spare tire could loosen and suddenly fall from your vehicle. If this happened when your vehicle was being driven, the tire might contact a person or another vehicle, causing injury and, of course, damage to itself as well. Be sure the underbody-mounted spare tire is stored with its valve stem pointing down. 5-33 Storing the Spare Tire and Tools 1. Lay the compact spare tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle. Position the compact spare tire so that the valve stem is pointed down facing the rear of the vehicle. 2. Lower the cable to the ground. See “Removing the Spare Tire (Vehicles without the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray)” or “Removing the Spare Tire (Vehicles with the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray)” in the Index. 3. Tilt the retainer downward and slip it through the center hole of the spare tire. Make sure the retainer is fully seated across the underside of the wheel. 4. Attach the folding wrench to the hoist shaft. Use the extension tube if you have the optional rear convenience/cargo tray. 5. Turn the folding wrench clockwise to lift the spare tire. 6. When the tire reaches the stabilizer bar, move the tire over the bar, then continue to turn the folding wrench clockwise to lift the spare tire. 7. When the tire is almost in the stored position, turn the tire so that the valve stem is towards the rear of the vehicle. This will help when you check and maintain tire pressure in the spare. 8. Raise the tire fully against the underside of the vehicle. Continue turning the folding wrench until you feel more than two clicks. This indicates that the compact spare tire is secure and the cable is tight. The spare tire hoist cannot be overtightened. 5-34 Put back all tools as they were stored in the jack storage compartment and put the compartment cover back on. To put the cover back on, slip the tabs on the side of the cover into the cover opening. Push the cover in place and push down the tabs on the cover so that it rests in the groove. This secures the cover in place. When you replace the compact spare with a full-size tire, reinstall the bolt-on wheel covers or the center cap (if equipped). Tighten them “hand tight” over the wheel nuts, using the folding wrench. 5-35 9. Make sure the tire is stored securely. Push, pull, and then try to rotate or turn the tire. If the tire moves, use the folding wrench to tighten the cable. Storing the Flat Tire (Vehicles without the Stowable Seat and without the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray) A. D-Ring B. Wing Nut C. J-Hook D. Valve Stem E. Full-Size Tire 5-36 1. Flip up the D-ring located in the rear cargo area. 2. Lay the tire in the rear cargo area of the vehicle with the valve stem up with the center hole of the tire over the D-ring. For vehicles with aluminum wheels, remove the center trim cap by tapping the back of the cap with the folding wrench. 3. Remove the J-hook and the wing nut from the back of the jack access door. Assemble the wing nut and the J-hook. 4. Install the wing nut and the J-hook to the D-ring through the center hole of the tire. 5. Tighten the wing nut to secure the tire to the floor. Push and pull on the tire to make sure the tire is secure and does not move. 6. Put back all tools as they were stored in the jack storage compartment and put the compartment cover back on. To put the cover back on, slip the tabs on the side of the cover into the cover opening. Push the cover in place and push down the tabs on the cover so that it rests in the groove. This secures the cover in place. Storing the Flat Tire (Vehicles with the Rear Convenience/Cargo Tray) (Option) 1. Open the center storage compartment door of the rear convenience/cargo tray. A. Rear Convenience/ Cargo Tray B. Full-Size Tire C. Wing Nut D. J-Hook E. D-Ring 2. Remove the cap on the bottom of the storage compartment and flip the D-ring up. 3. Lay the tire on top of the center storage compartment with the valve stem down. Make sure you can see the D-ring through the center hole of the tire. 4. Remove the J-hook and the wing nut from the back of the jack access door. Assemble the wing nut and the J-hook. 5. Install the wing nut and the J-hook to the D-ring through the center hole of the tire. 6. Tighten the wing nut to secure the tire to the floor. Push and pull on the tire to make sure the tire is secure and does not move. 7. Put back all tools as they were stored in the jack storage compartment and put the compartment cover back on. To put the cover back on, slip the tabs on the side of the cover into the cover opening. Push the cover in place and push down the tabs on the cover so that it rests in the groove. This secures the cover in place. 5-37 Storing the Flat Tire (Vehicles with the Stowable Seat) (Option) A. Rear Convenience/ Cargo Tray B. Full-Size Tire C. D-Ring D. Stowable Seat Strap E. Cargo Net Hook F. J-Hook G. Wing Nut 5-38 1. If the seatback is not in an upright position, move it to an upright position. 2. There is a strap attached to each side of the stowable seat. Hook the straps to the cargo net hook in the rear of the vehicle. 3. Flip the D-ring so it is pointing outward. 4. Open the convenience/cargo tray cover. 5. Stand the full-size tire up, in the tray against the back of the seat with the valve stem pointing out. 6. Remove the J-hook and the wing nut from the back of the jack access door. Assemble the wing nut and the J-hook. 7. Install the wing nut and the J-hook to the D-ring through the center hole of the tire. 8. Tighten the wing nut to secure the tire to the seatback. Push and pull on the tire to make sure the tire is secure and does not move. 9. Put back all tools as they were stored in the jack storage compartment and put the compartment cover back on. To put the cover back on, slip the tabs on the side of the cover into the cover opening. Push the cover in place and push down the tabs on the cover so that it rests in the groove. This secures the cover in place. Storing the Flat Tire with the Stowable Seatback Folded Flat A. Stowable Seatback B. Full-Size Tire C. Wing Nut D. J-Hook E. D-Ring 1. Fold the seatback down and flip the D-ring up. 2. Lay the tire on the seatback with the valve stem pointing up with the center hole of the tire over the D-ring. 3. Remove the J-hook and the wing nut from the back of the jack access door. Assemble the wing nut and the J-hook. 4. Install the wing nut and the J-hook to the D-ring through the center hole of the tire. 5. Tighten the wing nut to secure the tire to the seatback. Push and pull on the tire to make sure the tire is secure and does not move. 6. Put back all tools as they were stored in the jack storage compartment and put the compartment cover back on. To put the cover back on, slip the tabs on the side of the cover into the cover opening. Push the cover in place and push down the tabs on the cover so that it rests in the groove. This secures the cover in place. 5-39 Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 kPa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated. The compact spare is made to perform well at speeds up to 65 mph (105 km/h) for distances up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), so you can finish your trip and have your full-size tire repaired or replaced where you want. Of course, it’s best to replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good shape in case you need it again. NOTICE: When the compact spare is installed, don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and maybe other parts of your vehicle. Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles. And don’t mix your compact spare tire or wheel with other wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your spare tire and its wheel together. NOTICE: Tire chains won’t fit your compact spare. Using them can damage your vehicle and can damage the chains too. Don’t use tire chains on your compact spare. 5-40 All-Wheel Drive (Option) NOTICE: After installing a compact spare tire on a vehicle with all-wheel drive you will need to drive with light to moderate acceleration, for 10 seconds, in a straight line. This action will allow the vehicle to detect the compact spare tire and disable the all-wheel drive system. The AWD DISABLE message will come on indicating that the all-wheel drive system is off. You may detect a slight pull during this time, but this is normal. Damage to the all-wheel drive system will occur, if the vehicle is driven for an extended period with a compact spare tire installed and the all-wheel drive system in operation. See “All-Wheel Drive System” and “AWD Disable Warning Message” in the Index for more information. If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will need to spin the wheels, but you don’t want to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution. CAUTION: If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. And, the transaxle or other parts of the vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage. When you’re stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don’t spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer. 5-41 NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle. For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see “Tire Chains” in the Index. Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. If your vehicle has traction control, you should turn your traction control system off. See “Traction Control System” in the Index. Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transaxle is in gear. By slowly spinning your wheels in the forward and reverse directions, you will cause a rocking motion that may free your vehicle. If that doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. If you do need to be towed out, see “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index. 5-42 Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care. 6-2 6-3 6-5 6-6 6-8 6-8 6-11 6-16 6-17 6-19 6-23 6-25 6-28 6-28 6-29 6-31 6-34 6-35 Service Fuel Fuels in Foreign Countries Filling Your Tank Filling a Portable Fuel Container Checking Things Under the Hood Engine Oil Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Passenger Compartment Air Filter (If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle Fluid All-Wheel Drive (Option) Engine Coolant Radiator Pressure Cap Power Steering Fluid Windshield Washer Fluid Brakes Battery Bulb Replacement 6- 6-39 6-41 6-51 6-52 6-54 6-54 6-55 6-57 6-58 6-58 6-59 6-60 6-60 6-61 6-68 6-68 6-69 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Tires Appearance Care Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle Care of Safety Belts Cleaning Glass Surfaces Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle Cleaning Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels (If Equipped) Underbody Maintenance Chemical Paint Spotting GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Service Parts Identification Label Electrical System Replacement Bulbs Capacities and Specifications Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts 6-1 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: 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 and Owner Publications” in the Index. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see “Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle” in the Index. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and listthe mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index. 6-2 CAUTION: You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. D Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. D 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 Gasoline Octane 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 it is bad enough, it can 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. 6-3 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. Gasolines meeting these specifications could provide improved driveability and emission control system performance compared to other gasolines. In Canada, look for the “Auto Makers’ Choice” label on the pump. 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 Indicator Lamp” in the Index) 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. Canada Only 6-4 Additives 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. 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. 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 plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty. 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 on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving. 6-5 Filling Your Tank CAUTION: Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoline. While refueling, let the fuel cap hang by the tether as shown. The fuel cap is located on the driver’s side of the vehicle. 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. 6-6 The malfunction indicator lamp (SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light) will come on if the fuel cap is not properly installed. NOTICE: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get 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. CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline 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 gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle” in the Index. 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” in the Index. 6-7 Filling a Portable Fuel Container Checking Things Under the Hood CAUTION: CAUTION: 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: D Dispense gasoline only into approved containers. D 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. D 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. D Don’t smoke while pumping gasoline. 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. CAUTION: 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. 6-8 Hood Release To open the hood, do the following: 1. Pull the hood release handle, located on the driver’s side under the instrument panel. 2. Go to the front of the vehicle and slide the secondary hood release handle from left to right. 3. Lift the hood. 6-9 Engine Compartment Overview When you lift the hood, you’ll see these items: A. Underhood Fuse and Relay Center B. Remote Positive (+) Terminal C. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir D. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick 6-10 E. Brake Master Cylinder F. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir G. Battery H. Radiator Pressure Cap I. Engine Oil Fill Cap J. Engine Oil Dipstick K. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter L. Engine Coolant Reservoir Before closing the hood be sure that all of the filler caps are on properly, then let the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil 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. United States Canada If the low engine oil level message appears on the instrument cluster, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see “Low Engine Oil Level Message” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. The engine oil dipstick is located at the front of the engine compartment, near the center. The dipstick handle has a bright, yellow loop design for easy identification. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. 6-11 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. 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 just behind the engine oil dipstick. When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, 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” in the Index. 6-12 See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through. 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. If you change your own oil, be sure you use oil that 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 following chart: 6-13 As in the chart shown previously, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W-30 if it’s going to be 0_F (-18_C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50. 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 GoodwrenchR oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. If you are in an area where the temperature falls below -20_F (-29_C), consider using either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures. 6-14 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. When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil Life Systemt) Your vehicle has a computer that lets you know when to change your engine oil. This is not based on mileage,but on engine revolutions and engine operating temperature. When the computer has calculated that the oil needs changing, the GM Oil Life Systemt will indicate that a change is necessary. Change your oil as soon as it is possible within the next two times you stop for fuel. The mileage between oil and filter changes will vary depending on how you drive your vehicle -- usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and 10,000 miles (16 000 km) since your last oil and filter change. Under severe conditions, the system may come on before 3,000 miles (5 000 km). Never drive your vehicle more than 10,000 miles (16 000 km) or 12 months (whichever occurs first) without an oil change. Remember to reset the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message whenever the oil is changed. For the Oil Life System to work properly, you must reset the system each time the oil is changed. How to Reset the Change Engine Oil Message If your vehicle does not have the optional Driver Information Center (DIC), do the following: 1. With the ignition key in ON but the engine off, fully push and release the accelerator pedal slowly three times within five seconds. 2. Turn the key to OFF. If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message comes back on, the engine oil life monitor has not reset. Repeat the procedure. If your vehicle has the optional DIC, do the following: 1. Turn the ignition to ON with the engine off. 2. Press the MODE button until the DIC reads OIL LIFE LEFT/HOLD SET TO RESET. 3. Press and hold the SET button until 100% is displayed. You will hear three chimes and the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message will go off. If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message comes back on, the monitor has not reset. Repeat the procedure. 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 throw away 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. 6-15 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Checking or Replacing the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 1. Remove the two clamps on the duct. 2. Remove the duct. 3. Unlatch the two hooks on top of the engine air cleaner/filter housing. 4. Remove and replace the engine air cleaner/filter. 5. Align the tabs located on the bottom of the panel with the slots at the top of the housing. 6. Latch the hooks to secure the panel in place. If the panel moves easily, check that the tabs are seated correctly in the slots. 7. Put the duct back on and reinstall the clamps. The engine air cleaner/filter is located at the front of the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle, under the engine coolant reservoir. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. 6-16 CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter 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 cleaner/filter in place when you’re driving. Passenger Compartment Air Filter (If Equipped) Passenger compartment air, both outside and recirculated air, is routed through a passenger compartment filter, which is part of a two-piece filter system. The filter removes certain contaminants from the air, including pollen and dust particles, as well as odors such as exhaust or fuel fumes. Reductions in airflow, which may occur more quickly in dusty areas, indicate that the filter needs to be replaced early. For how often to change the air filter, see “Scheduled Maintenance” in the Index. If your vehicle has the automatic comfort control system with the digital display, your vehicle comes with the passenger compartment air filter element installed. If your vehicle has the manual comfort control system, your vehicle does not have a passenger compartment air filter element installed. If you would like to put a filter in, follow these steps for filter replacement. 6-17 The access panel for the passenger compartment air filter is located in the back of the glove box. 1. Open the glove box. 2. Squeeze the tab on the left and pull the outer access panel to remove. 3. Then squeeze the tab on the left of the inner access panel to open the door. 4. The first air filter will pull straight out. To remove the second, reach in and slide it toward the opening. Pull the second filter out. 6-18 5. Replace the filters by reversing Step 4. Make sure the filters are inserted so that the sealing foam is angled in the same direction on both filters. 6. Close the inner access door, while squeezing the tab. Be sure it is tightly closed. 7. Snap the outer access panel into the back of the glove box. For the type of filter to use, see “Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts” in the Index. 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: D In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90_F (32_C) or higher. D In hilly or mountainous terrain. D When doing frequent trailer towing. D 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 (166 000 km). See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. 6-19 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 parts 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. 6-20 Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: D When outside temperatures are above 90_F (32_C). D At high speed for quite a while. D In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. 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 (10_C). If it’s colder than 50_F (10_C), you may have to drive longer. Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: D Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. D With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). D 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). D Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes. Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: The dipstick is located toward the back of the engine compartment, next to the brake master cylinder. The dipstick handle is a bright red loop. See “Engine Compartment Overview in the Index 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. 6-21 How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 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. 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 overfill. NOTICE: We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRONR-III, because fluid with that label is made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRONR-III is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. 3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under “How to Check.” 4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way. 6-22 How to Check Lubricant All-Wheel Drive (Option) If you have an all-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure to perform the lubricant checks described in this section. However, they have two additional systems that need lubrication. Transfer Case (Power Transfer Unit) When to Check Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” in the Index. To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant. Add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 6-23 Carrier Assembly-Differential (Rear Drive Module) When to Check and Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. How to Check Lubricant To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant. Add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole. A fluid loss could indicate a problem; check and have it repaired, if needed. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 6-24 Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOLR 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-COOLR 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, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index. A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOLR coolant will: D Give freezing protection down to -34_F (-37_C). D Give boiling protection up to 265_F (129_C). D Protect against rust and corrosion. D Help keep the proper engine temperature. D Let the warning lights and gages work as they should. NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOLR (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-COOLR is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. 6-25 What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOLR coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don’t need to add anything else. CAUTION: 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-COOLR 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. 6-26 Checking Coolant The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at FULL COLD, or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be above the FULL COLD mark or a little higher. Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOLR coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank. CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the 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. Add coolant mixture at the recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it. CAUTION: 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. Occasionally check the coolant level in the radiator. For information on how to add coolant to the radiator, see “Cooling System” in the Index. 6-27 Radiator Pressure Cap Power Steering Fluid NOTICE: Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) 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. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. The power steering fluid reservoir is located to the right of the windshield washer fluid reservoir, at the back of the engine compartment. 6-28 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” in the Index 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. When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the H (hot) mark. When it’s cold, the level should be at the C (cold) mark. If the fluid is at the ADD mark, you should add fluid. What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, see “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 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

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2002 Buick Rendezvous Owners Manual