Filling Your Tank ............................................ 5-7 Fi!!Ing a Portab!e Fue! Container ...................... -5-9 Checking Things Under the Hood .................... 5-10 Hood Release .............................................. 5.11 Engine Compartment Overview ....................... 5.12 Engine Oil ................................................... 5.13 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ................................ 5.18 Automatic Transaxle Fluid .............................. 5.19 tngine Cooiani r nn J-LL Radiator Pressure Cap .................................. 5.25 Engine Overheating ....................................... 5.25 Cooling System ............................................ 5.28
............................................
Power Steering Fluid ................................... -5-35 Windshield Washer Fluid ................................ 5-36 Brakes ........................................................ 5-37 Battery ........................................................ 5.40 Jump Starting ............................................... 5-41 .............................................. 5-46 All-Wheel Drive Bulb Replacement .......................................... 5-48 5-48 5-48
Halogen Bulbs .............................................. Headlamps .................................................. Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and
Parking Lamps .......................................... 5-50 Taillamps, TLlrn Signa!, and Stop!amps ............ 5-50 Taillamps and Back-up Lamps ....................... 5-51 Replacement Bulbs ....................................... 5-52 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement .............. 5-53 Tires .............................................................. 5-55 Inflation - Tire Pressure ................................ 5-56 Check Tire Pressure System .......................... 5-56 Tire Inspection and Rotation ........................... 5-58 When It Is Time for New Tires ....................... 5-59 Buying New Tires ......................................... 5-60
5- 1
Section 5
Service and Appearance Care
Uniform Tire Quality Grading .......................... 5.61 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance .............. 5-62 Wheel Replacement .................................. 5.62 Tire Chains .................................................. 5.64 Accessory Inflator ......................................... 5.65 If a Tire Goes Flat ........................................ 5.66 Changing a Flat Tire ..................................... 5-67 Compact Spare Tire ...................................... 5-85 Appearance Care ............................................ 5-87 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle ................. 5-87 Care of Safety Belts ...................................... 5-90 Weatherstrips ............................................... 5-90 Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle .............. 5-90 Sheet Metal Damage ..................................... 5-92 ..................... 5-92 Finish Damage .............
Underbody Maintenance ................................ 5.92 Chemical Paint Spotting ................................. 5.93 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials ........... 5.93 Vehicle Identification ...................................... 5-95 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ................. 5-95 Service Parts Identification Label ..................... 5-95 Electrical System ............................................ 5-96 Add-on Electrical Equipment .......................... 5-96 Headlamp Wiring .......................................... 5-96 Windshield Wiper Fuses ................................ 5.96 Power Windows and Other Power Options ....... 5-96 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ............................ 5-96 Capacities and Specifications ....................... 5-1 02 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts ........ 5.104
5-2
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:
5-3
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 1-83. 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.
5-4
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.
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 Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of the proper maintenance of your vehicle. 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 this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher 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 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
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 on page 3-42 ) 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 contibute 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 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.
5-6
The fuel cap is located on the driver's side of the vehicle.
-"~.~-~.":~- ~ . ' ~ i&k x
. . . While refueling, let the fuel
cap hang by the tether as
shown.
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 highl, ..-...... ..-le.
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.
It bur..,
5-7
To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly to the left
(counterclockwise). The fuel cap has spring in it; if you
let go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to
the right.
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 5-90.
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 3-42.
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.
5-8
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
ile it is in
Never fill a portable fuel container 1
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.
CAUTION:
(Continued)
0 Do not fill a container
... 1ile it is
:a
vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed or
on any surface other than the ground.
0 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.
5-9
Checking Things Under the
Hood
CAUTI
An electric fan under the hood can start
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.
5-1 0
Hood Release
To open the hood:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Pull the hood release handle, located on the
driver's side under the instrument panel.
Go to the front of the vehicle and slide the
secondary hood release handle from left to right.
Lift the hood.
If your vehicle has a prop rod, place it in the slot on
the underside of the hood.
Before closing the hood be sure that all of the filler caps
are on properly, then let the hood down and close it
firmly.
5-1 1
Engine Compartment Overview
When you lift the hood, you’ll see these items:
5-1 2
A. Underhood Fuse Block
B. Remote Positive (+) Terminal
C. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
D. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick
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 CleanedFilter
L. Engine Coolant Reservoir
Engine Oil
LOW
ENG OIL
LEVEL
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 on page 3-50.
You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is
an added reminder.
5-1 3
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.
When to Add Engine Oil
The engine oil dipstick is
located at the front of the
engine compartment,
near the center. The
dipstick handle has a
biight, yellow loop design
for easy identification.
See Engine Compartment 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.
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.
If the oil is at or below 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- 102.
Nofice: 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.
5-1 4
A
1 7
I engine Ail dipstick.
The engine oil fill cap is
located iust behind the
SAE 5W-30
‘I
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for
more information on location.
Be sure to iiii ii enough io pui the ievei somewhere in
the proper operating range in the cross-hatched
area. 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 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
cmtainer. 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 vour
vehicle, as shown in the viscosity chart.
5-1 5
RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS
LOOK
FOR THIS
SYMBOL
. I
HOT
WEATHER
7 "C
' O F
+ l o o - -
. t38
+ 8 0 - -
- + 2 7
+ 6 0 - -
+ 16
+ 4 0 - -
- t 4
+ 2 0 - -
- - I
O - -
- - 18
ACCEPTABLE
1OW-30
SAE
-30
IF 5W-30 IS NOT
AVAILABLE
RECOMMENDED
COLD
WEATHER
DO NOT USE SAE iOW-40, SAE 20W-50 OR ANY OTHER
VISCOSITY GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED
5-1 6
As in the chart shown previously, SAE 5W-30 is the
only viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle. You
should look for and use only oils which have the API
Starburst symbol and which are also identified as
SAE 5W-30. If you cannot find such SAE 5W-30 oils,
you can use an SAE IOW-30 oil which has the API
Starburst symbol, if it's going to be 0°F (-18°C)
or above. Do not use other viscosity grade oils, such as
SAE 1OW-40 or SAE 20W-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 an SAE 5W-30
synthetic oil or an 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.
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 engine oil message 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
,-ilusi be leseI*
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
... La".....-" +LA
w l l c l l c v c l Lllt: oil is charged.
ii is ~i-l-,pui"L&i-li
tu c;i-lec;k yuui- ui;
How to Reset the Change Engine Oil
Message
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
being turned on, reset the system.
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 acelerator pedal slowly three
times within five seconds.
2. Turn the key IC! 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 ine iviGZIE buiion uniii ine EiZ reaas G i i
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 wi!! go off- If the CHANGE
ENGINE OIL message comes back on, the
monitor has not reset. Repeat the procedure.
5-1 7
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.
Engine Air Cleanedfilter
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 on page 5-72 for more
information on location.
5-1 8
Checking or Replacing the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter
1.
2.
3.
4.
Remove the two clamps on the duct.
Remove the duct.
Unlatch the two hooks on top of the engine air
cleanedfilter housing.
Remove and replace the engine air cleanedfilter.
5. Align the tabs located on the bottom of the panel
with the slots at the bottom 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.
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 errgine backfires. If it isrr’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 cleanerlfilter 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.
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 - .5chedIlled Maintenance .5ervices nn
page 6-4.
5-1 9
Checking the Fluid Level
Prepare your vehicle as follows:
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).
Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.
I hen, 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.
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:
When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C).
At high speed for quite a while.
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 (IOOC), you may have to
drive longer.
5-20
The dipstick handle is a bright red loop. 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 Part 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.
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 ovedill.
Nofice: tiie recommend you use oniy iiuid iabeieci
DEXRON@ 111, because fluid with that label is
made especially for your automatic transmission.
Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON@
111 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.
5-2 1
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, see Engine Overheating on
page 5-25.
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 (129°C).
Protect against rust and corrosion.
Help keep the proper engine temperature.
Let the warning messages 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
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-COOL@ is not covered by your new vehicle
warranty.
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’t need to add anything else.
5-22
Checking Coolant
Adding OL,,, plain water tG yvur cvv,...g
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.
!YC!tice: !f you use the praper cao!an?, you don’?
have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim
to improve the system. These can be harmful.
The engine coolant reservoir is located on the driver’s
side of the vehicle, above the engine air cleaner/filter.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12
fer zcre IR:fcrmaticR F, !cc2,ticx?.
The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your
engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the FULL
COLD mark, or a little higher. When your engine is
warm, the level should be above the FULL COLD mark
or a !itt!e higher.
5-23
A can _ _ -Jrned
IOU 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 5-28.
Adding Coolant
If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL@
coolant
at the coolanf recovery tank.
cap when the
Turning .,re rad,,,or press,,e
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.
5-24
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 at the front of the
engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the
vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on
page 5-72 for more information on location.
Engine Overheating
You wiii find an engine csoiant temperaiure gage on
your vehicle’s instrument panel. See Engine Coolant
Temperature Gage on page 3-42. You also have
an engine coolant temperature warning message on
your instrument panel. See Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Message on page 3-48.
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
prsieetisn 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.
5-25
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
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
CAUTION:
(Continued)
5-26
e-,ryone away fr-..] the vehicl- ____ il 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 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:
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. 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.
5-27
Cooling System
When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what
you’ll see:
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. The vehicle
should be parked on a level surface.
A. Radiator Pressure Cap
B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans
C. Coolant Recovery Tank
5-28
i lere is a leak. If you run
Do run the engine
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.
Nctke: 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
vou use onlv 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-COOL@ is not covered by your new vehicle
warranty.
5-29
The coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD
mark. 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 SI .?m.
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine
parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you
do, you can be burned.
CAIJTioN
(c:
ontinuedj
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-COOL@
engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. See Engine
Coolant on page 5-22 for more information.
1g
ur cot
Adding on11 . llain water to
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.
5-30
You can be Durned 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.
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 ii little -- they cait 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.
5-3 1
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.
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.
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.
5-32
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-COOL@
coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler
neck. See Engine Coolant on page 5-22 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 tilled.
5. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from the engine
and the compartment.
5-33
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-COOL@ 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.
5-34
A
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.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the
washer symbol on it. Add
washer fluid until the
tank is full.
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- 72 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 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.
5-36
Brake Fluid --
Brakes
DOT3 7
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.
0 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.
0 Dan'!: use engine c ~ d a n t (antifreeze) In your
windshield washer. It can damage your
washer system and paint.
Your brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT-3
brake fluid. See Engine Compartment Overview on
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5-37
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. See “Checking Brake Fluid”
in this section.
BRAKE
States
United
Canada
When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake
warning light will come on. See Brake System Warning
Light on page 3-40.
5-38
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.
I ..dh
the wron9 ,,,,d c, ,hid in your 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.
ffotice:
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’ii 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.
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
is moving (except when you are pushing on the
brake pedal firmly).
I I- !:le
~~
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.
5-39
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.
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
5-40
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.
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
running down.
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.
r-
Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas
that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you
aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” in the Index
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- 1 12.
Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous
because:
They contain acid that can burn you.
They contain gas that can explode or
ignite.
They contain enough electricity to
burn you.
If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some
or all of these things can hurt you.
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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
rnclIIt
----a-
in ~ ~ s t ! \ /
battery with a negative ground system.
5-41
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 starting procedure. Put an automatic
transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle
in NEUTRAL 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 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!
5-42
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 on page 5-12 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 (+)
minal on the battery.
An electric fan can start up even when
engine is not running and can injure you. Keep
hands, clothing and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.
near a ry can cause battery
Using a ma.-.i
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.
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 (+j or to a remote positive (+) terminai 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
m n s r h r r n + h n w n m w + - +--
I I I U Y U ~ W L I IGI ~
negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal on
the dead battery because this can cause sparks.
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A - A A,-.-,+
*I--
LI IC;
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6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+)
terminal of the dead battery. Use a remote
nnciti\m (+> termins! if the \I&!&
has =ne.
r --.**
5-43
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 engine part or to a 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.
10.
11.
Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run
the engine for a while.
Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery. If
it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs
service.
5-44
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.
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
13. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) and Remote
Negative (-) Terminals
C. Dead Battery or Remote Positive (+) Terminal
5-45
How to Check Lubricant
All-Wheel Drive
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 Part C: Periodic
Maintenance Inspections on page 6- 13.
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 Part Dr Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6- 15.
5-46
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
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4.
How to Check Lubricant
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 Part D: Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-15.
To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a
ievei surface.
5-47
Bulb Replacement
For the type of bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on
page 5-52.
For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this
section, contact your dealer.
Halogen Bulbs
Headlamps
1. Open the hood.
2. Push in on the headlamp
panel and lift up the
headlamp retaining clip
partway, but do not
remove.
Haloger. --..x have press-. .zed gas inside
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.
3. Undo the wing stud on the upper, outboard side of
the lamp assembly.
4. Unsnap the headlamp assembly by pulling it
forward, away from the vehicle.
5. Disconnect the electrical connector by pulling back
on the locking tab, located on the electrical
connector, to separate the two connectors.
5-48
6. Turn the bulb socket
one-quarter of a turn
clockwise.
7. Pull the bulb assembly out from the lamp housing.
8.
9.
Unhook the electrical connector by lifting up the
gray tabs and separate the connector from the
bulb base.
Install the new bulb into the electrical connector.
Push the bulb firmly enough so that the gray tabs
hook over the tab on the bulb.
5-49
10. Put the bulb assembly back into the lamp housing
and turn the bulb socket one-quarter of a turn
counterclockwise.
11. Align the retaining clips on the back of the headlamp
with the rectangular holes in the mounting panel.
12. Push firmly on both ends of the headlamp to snap it
into position.
13. Push the retaining clip down to its original position.
14. Reinstall the wing stud.
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and
Parking Lamps
To replace the front turn signal, parking or sidemarker
lamp bulbs, follow the headlamp bulb replacement
procedure and replace the appropriate bulb.
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and
Stoplamps
1. Open the liftgate.
2. Remove the two
screws on the inboard
taillamp panel.
3. Pull the lamp directly rearward from the vehicle.
4. Turn the bulb socket one-quarter of a turn
counterclockwise.
5. Pull the bulb assembly out from the lamp housing.
6. Unhook the electrical connector by lifting up the
tabs and separate the connector from the
bulb base.
5-50
7. Install the new bulb into the electrical connector.
Push the bulb firmly enough so that the tabs hook
over the tab on the bulb.
8. Put the bulb assembly back into the lamp housing
and turn the bulb socket one-quarter of a turn
clockwise.
9. Reinstall the lamp to its pocket by lining up the
mounting pin and pushing forward to set the
position.
10. Reinstall the screws removed in Step 2.
11. Close the liftgate.
Taillamps and Back-up Lamps
This procedure is for the liftgate-mounted taillamps and
back-up lamps.
1. Open the liftgate.
2. Remove the panel inside the liftgate by lifting the
tabs and pulling the panel off.
3. Remove the seven
wing
nuts and the four
outboard nuts (two
each end).
at
4. Gently lower the liftgate.
5. Pull the lamp applique directly rearward from the
vehicle.
5-51
10. Put the bulb assembly back into the lamp housing
and turn the bulb socket one-quarter of a turn
clockwise.
11. Replace the applique on the liftgate.
12. Gently lift the liftgate.
13. Reinstall the seven wing nuts and the four
outboard nuts.
14. Reinstall the panel inside the liftgate by connecting
the tabs.
15. Close the liftgate.
Replacement Bulbs
For any bulb not listed here contact your dealer.
Lamp
Bulb Number
Front Turn SiqnaVParkinq Lamps 3457K
1 Headlamtx Hiah-Beam
I Headlamps Low-Beam
Liftgate-Mounted Back-up Lamps
Liftgate-Mounted Taillamps
Rear Outboard Stop/Tail/Turn
Sidemarker Lamps
9005
9006
92 1
161
3057K
168
A. Taillamp (outboard)
B. Taillamp (center)
C. Back-up Lamp (inboard)
6. Turn the bulb socket one-quarter of a turn
counterclockwise.
7. Pull the bulb assembly out from the lamp housing.
8. Pull the bulb out of the base.
9. Install the new bulb into the electrical connector.
Push the bulb firmly enough so that the tabs hook
over the tab on the bulb.
5-52
Windshield Wiper Blade
Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least
twice a year for wear or cracking. See "Wiper Blade
Check" under Part B: Owner Checks and Services on
page 6-9 for more information.
Replacement blades come in different types and are
removed in different ways. For proper type and length,
see Normal Maintenance Replacement Pads on
page 5- 104.
Here's how to replace the windshield wiper blades:
1. Turn the wipers on to the lowest intermittent setting.
2. Turn off the ignition while the wipers are at the
outer positions of the wipe pattern. The blades
are more accessible for removal/replacement while
in this position.
3. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from the
windshield.
4. Pull up the release clip, located at the connecting
point of the blade and the arm. Then, pull the
blade assembly down toward the glass to remove it
from the wiper arm.
5-53
5. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper
arm until you hear the release clip "click" into
place.
6. Push the release clip, from Step 4, down to secure
the wiper blade into place.
To replace the backglass mounted wiper blade, do the
following:
1. Turn the rear wiper off.
2. Pull the wiper away from the backglass.
3. Pull up the release clip, located at the connecting
point of the blade and the arm. Then, pull the
blade assembly down toward the glass to remove it
from the wiper arm.
4. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper
arm until you hear the release clip "click" into
place.
5. Push the release clip, from Step 3, down to secure
the wiper blade into place.
5-54
Tires
Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by
a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions
about your tire warranty and where to obtain service,
see your Buick Warranty booklet for details.
Poa
are dangerous.
aintained and improperly
usel
ires
0 Overinflated tires are more
!ly to be cut,
punctured or broken by a sudden
impact - such as when you hit a pothole.
Keep tires at the recommended pressure.
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If
your tread is badly worn, or if your tires
have been damaged, replace them.
Overloading your tires can cause
overheating as a result of too much
friction. You couid have an air-out and a
serious accident. See "Loading Your
Vehicle" in the Index.
Underinflated tires pose the same danger
as overloaded tires. The resulting accident
could cause serious injury. Check all
tiresfrequently to maintain the
recommended pressure. Tire pressure
should be checked when your tires
are cold.
CAUTION:
(Continued)
5-55
Inflation - Tire Pressure
The Certificationrrire label, which is on the rear edge of
the driver’s door, shows the correct inflation pressures
for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your
vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven
no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
Notice: Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation
or overinflation is all right. It’s not. If your tires
don’t have enough air (underinflation), you can get
the following:
Too much flexing
Too much heat
Tire overloading
Bad wear
Bad handling
Bad fuel economy
5-56
If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you
can get the following:
Unusual wear
Bad handling
Rough ride
0 Needless damage from road hazards
When to Check
Check your tires once a month or more.
Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be
at 60 psi (420 kPa).
How to Check
Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire
pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated
simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look
properly inflated even when they’re underinflated.
Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems.
They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.
Check Tire Pressure System
Your vehicle may have a check tire pressure system
that can alert you to a large change in the pressure of
one tire. The system won’t alert you before you drive
that a tire is low or flat. You must begin driving before
the system will work properly.
The LOW TIRE PRESSURE HOLD SET TO RESET
message will appear on the Driver Information Center
(DIC) and the LOW TIRE PRESSURE message
will come on the message center if pressure difference
(low pressure) is detected in one tire. In the following
conditions, the LOW TIRE PRESSURE message
may not come on even if the tire pressure is low, or it
may come on when the tire pressure is actually normal:
more than one tire is low,
only one tire is replaced with a new tire during
service,
the vehicle is moving faster than 70 mph (1 13 km/h),
the system is not yet calibrated,
the tire treadwear is uneven,
the compact spare tire is installed,
tire chains are being used, or
the vehicle is being driven on a rough or
frozen road.
If the anti-lock brake system warning light comes on,
the check tire pressure system may not be working
properly. See your dealer for service. Also, see
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light on page 3-4 1.
The check tire pressure system detects differences
in tire rotation speeds that are caused by changes in tire
pressure. The system car! a!& p u 2hnuf a !nw
tire - but it doesn’t replace normal tire maintenance.
See Tires on page 5-55.
When the LOW TIRE PRESSURE HOLD SET TO
RESET message appears on the Driver Information
Center and the LOW TIRE PRESSURE message comes
on the message center, you should stop as soon as
you can and check all your tires for damage. If a tire is
flat, see If a Tire Goes Flat on page 5-66. Also check
the tire pressure in all four tires as soon as you can. See
Inflation -- Tire Pressure on page 5-56.
Any time you adjust a tire’s pressure or have one or more
tires repaired or replaced, you’ll need to reset (calibrate)
the check tire pressure system. You’ll also need to reset
the system whenever you rotate the tires, buy new tires
and install or remove the compact spare.
Don’t reset the check tire pressure system without first
correcting the came of the problem m d checking
and adjusting the pressure in all four tires. If you reset
the system when the tire pressures are incorrect,
the check tire pressure system will not work properly
and may not alert you when a tire is low or high.
To reset the system:
2. Press the MODE button until the DIC reads LOW
TIRE PRESSURE HOLD SET TO RESET.
3. Press and hold the SET button until you hear a
chime and TIRE PRESSURE RESET is displayed.
5-57
You will hear three chimes and the LOW TIRE
PRESSURE message will go off and the DIC will return
to TIRE PRESSURE NORMAL. If the LOW TIRE
PRESSURE message comes back on, the check tire
pressure system has not reset. Repeat the procedure.
The system completes the calibration process during
driving. The system “learns” the pressure at each tire
throughout the operating speed range of your vehicle.
The system normally takes between 30 and 60 minutes of
driving to learn the tire pressures. The system normally
takes 10 to 20 minutes of driving in each speed range to
learn tire pressures. The speed ranges are 20 to 40 mph
(32 to 64 km/h), 40 to 60 mph (64 to 96 km/h) and above
60 mph (96 km/h). This time may be longer depending on
your individual driving habits. The learning process does
not need to be completed during a single trip. Once
learned, the system will remember the tire pressure until
the system is reset.
Tire Inspection and Rotation
Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles (12 500 km).
Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires
as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also
check for damaged tires or wheels. See When It Is Time
for New Tires on page 5-59 and Wheel Replacement
on page 5-62 for more information.
5-58
Make sure the spare tire is stored securely. Push, pull,
and then try to rotate or turn the tire, If it moves,
use the folding wrench to tighten the cable. See “Storing
a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools” in Changing a Flat
Tire on page 5-67.
The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more
uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation
is the most important. See “Part A: Scheduled
Maintenance Services,” in Section 6, for scheduled
rotation intervals.
When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation
pattern shown here.
Don’t include the compact spare tire in your tire rotation.
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and
rear inflation pressures as shown on the
Certificationflire label.
Reset the check tire pressure system, if equipped. See
Check Tire Pressure System on page 5-56.
Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened.
See “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and
Specifications on page 5- 102.
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to
which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts
become loose after a time. The wheel could
come off and cause an accident. When you
change a wheel, remove m y rust or did froin
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. See “Changing a Flat
Tire” I!?
the !ndex.
When It Is Time for New Tires
One way to tell when it’s
time for new tires is to
check the treadwear
indicators, which will
appear when your tires
have only 1/16 inch
(1.6 mm) or less of tread
remaining.
Y ’ou need a new tire if any of the following statements
are true:
You can see the indicators at three or more places
around the tire.
5-59
The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged
deep enough to show cord or fabric.
The tire has a bump, bulge or split.
The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that
can’t be repaired well because of the size or
location of the damage.
Buying New Tires
To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at
the Certification/Tire label.
The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had
a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec)
number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires,
get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That way
your vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed
to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating,
traction, ride and other things during normal service on
your vehicle. If your tires have an all-season tread
design, the TPC number will be followed by an “MS” (for
mud and snow).
If you ever replace your tires with those not having a
TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size,
load range, speed rating and construction type (bias,
bias-belted or radial) as your original tires.
5-60
Mixing tires could cause you t ose control
while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes
or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the
vehicle may not handle properly, and you
could have a crash. Using tires of different
sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle.
Be sure to use the same size and type tires on
all wheels. It’s all right to drive with your
compact spare, though. It was developed for
use on your vehicle.
If you use bias-ply tires on your vehicle, the
wheel rim flanges could develop cracks after
many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel
could fail suddenly, causing a crash. Use only
radial-ply tires with the wheels on your vehicle.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the
tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum
section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
The following information relates to the system
developed by the United States National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by
treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This
applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.)
The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most
passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading
system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type
snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires,
tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches
(25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires.
While the tires available on General Motors passenger
cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these
grades, they must also conform to federal safety
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Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on
the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and
a half (1 5 )
a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires
depends upon the actual conditions of their use,
however, and may depart significantly from the norm
due to variations in driving habits, service practices and
differences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction - AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A,
B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s abl!ity
to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor
traction performance. Warning: The traction grade
assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking
traction tests, and does not include acceleration,
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5-6 1
Temperature - A, B, C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C,
representing the tire’s resistance to the generation
of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified indoor
laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can
cause the material of the tire to degenerate and
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all passenger car tires must
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is