Buick Owner's Manual 1999 Riviera Owners

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The 1999 Buick Riviera Owner’s Manual
1-1

Seats and Restraint Systems
This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system.

2-1

Features and Controls
This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle.

3-1

Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.

4-1

Your Driving and the Road
Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.

5-1

Problems on the Road
This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

6-1

Service and Appearance Care
Here the manual tells you how to keep your vehicle running properly and looking good.

7-1

Maintenance Schedule
This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

8-1

Customer Assistance Information
This section tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service and owner publications.
It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-9.

9-1

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

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We support voluntary
technician certification.

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

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a
French Language Manual:
Aux propriétaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous
procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en français chez
votre concessionaire ou au:
DGN Marketing Services Ltd.
1577 Meyerside Dr.
Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1B9

Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 25685485 A First Edition

ECopyright General Motors Corporation 1998
All Rights Reserved

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How to Use this Manual
Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning
to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If
you do this, it will help you learn about the features
and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll
find that pictures and words work together to explain
things quickly.

Index
A good place to look for what you need is the Index in
back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of what’s in
the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it.

Safety Warnings and Symbols
You will find a number of safety cautions in this book.
We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you
about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore
the warning.

CAUTION:
These mean there is something that could hurt
you or other people.
In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then
we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the
hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or
others could be hurt.
You will also find a circle
with a slash through it in
this book. This safety
symbol means “Don’t,”
“Don’t do this” or “Don’t
let this happen.”

iii

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

NOTICE:
These mean there is something that could
damage your vehicle.

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

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Vehicle Symbols
These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.
For example,
these symbols
are used on an
original battery:
CAUTION
POSSIBLE
INJURY
PROTECT
EYES BY
SHIELDING
CAUSTIC
BATTERY
ACID COULD
CAUSE
BURNS
AVOID
SPARKS OR
FLAMES
SPARK OR
FLAME
COULD
EXPLODE
BATTERY

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

DOOR LOCK
UNLOCK

These symbols
have to do with
your lamps:
MASTER
LIGHTING
SWITCH

WINDSHIELD
WIPER

TURN
SIGNALS

WINDSHIELD
WASHER

PARKING
LAMPS
FASTEN
SEAT
BELTS

POWER
WINDOW

AIR BAG

These symbols
are on some of
your controls:

HAZARD
WARNING
FLASHER

DAYTIME
RUNNING
LAMPS

FOG LAMPS

WINDSHIELD
DEFROSTER

REAR
WINDOW
DEFOGGER

VENTILATING
FAN

These symbols
are used on
warning and
indicator lights:

Here are some
other symbols
you may see:

ENGINE
COOLANT
TEMP

FUSE

BATTERY
CHARGING
SYSTEM

LIGHTER

HORN
BRAKE

COOLANT

SPEAKER

ENGINE OIL
PRESSURE

FUEL

ANTI-LOCK
BRAKES

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✍

NOTES

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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also
learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.
1-2
1-8
1-12
1-13
1-13
1-20
1-21
1-21
1-28

Seats and Seat Controls
Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone
Here are Questions Many People Ask About
Safety Belts -- and the Answers
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
Driver Position
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Right Front Passenger Position
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
Center Passenger Position

1-29
1-33
1-36
1-39
1-52
1-55
1-55
1-56

Rear Seat Passengers
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children
and Small Adults
Children
Child Restraints
Larger Children
Safety Belt Extender
Checking Your Restraint Systems
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash

1-1

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

Power Seats

The power seat controls are located on the side of the
driver’s and passenger’s seats.

D Raise or lower the front of the seat cushion by

holding the front part of the horizontal control up
or down.

D Raise or lower the rear of the seat cushion by

holding the rear part of the horizontal control up
or down.

D Raise or lower the entire seat cushion by holding the
whole horizontal control up or down.

D Move the seat forward or back by holding the
horizontal control to the front or back.

Power Lumbar Control (Option)
If you have this option, the driver’s and passenger’s
seatback lumbar support can be adjusted by moving the
single switch located on the side of the seat. To increase or
decrease support, hold the switch forward or rearward.

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Memory Seat and Mirrors (Option)

To set your memory seat and mirrors:
1. Adjust the driver’s seat cushion to your desired
position. Adjust both outside mirrors to suit you. See
“Mirrors” in the Index.
2. Press the SET button and then press the 1 or 2 side
of the MEMORY switch within five seconds. You
will hear one beep when you press the SET button
and two beeps when you press the MEMORY button
to confirm that the mirror and seat positions are
entered into memory.
When your vehicle is in PARK (P) with the ignition on
or off, press the same side of the MEMORY switch to
recall the seat and mirror setting.

The memory function controls the driver’s seat cushion
and outside mirror positions. It does not store the lumbar
or recline positions.

To do the same thing for a second driver, follow the
preceding steps, but press the other side of the
MEMORY switch.
The EXIT button allows you to get out of the car easily.
When the gear shift selector is in PARK (P) with the
ignition on or off, push EXIT and the seat will go all the
way down and back.

1-3

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Memory Seat and Mirrors Personal Choice
Feature (Option)
The remote keyless entry transmitters can also be
programmed to move the driver’s seat and outside
mirrors to a set memory position when the transmitter’s
UNLOCK button is pressed.
To program the system:
1. Adjust the driver’s seat cushion to a comfortable
position. Adjust both outside mirrors to suit you. See
“Power Remote Control Mirror” in the Index.
2. Press the SET button on the driver’s door armrest.
You will hear one beep.
3. Within five seconds, press one of the two memory
buttons on the armrest. You will hear two beeps to
confirm that the mirror and the seat positions are
entered into memory.
4. Press the UNLOCK button on the appropriate
transmitter within five seconds. You will hear
two beeps.

1-4

The second transmitter can be programmed to record
a different seat and mirror position by following the
same steps.
If you prefer to program the exit seat position, which
moves the seat completely down and back, follow
these steps:
1. Press the SET button on the driver’s door armrest.
You will hear one beep.
2. Press the EXIT button on the armrest. You will hear
one beep, but the seat will not move at this time.
3. Press the UNLOCK button on the appropriate
transmitter within five seconds. You will hear
two beeps.
This personal choice feature will work only when the
vehicle is in PARK (P). A beep will sound inside the
vehicle when the UNLOCK button on the transmitter is
pressed to move the seat and mirrors.
To turn this feature off, press SET and then UNLOCK
within five seconds.

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Heated Front Seat (Option)
If your vehicle has this
option, the switch is on the
armrest. With the ignition in
ACCESSORY or RUN,
press the button once and
the seat will warm up. The
HI light on the button will
come on.

Reclining Front Seatbacks
The front seatbacks can be
adjusted by pressing the
vertical control located on
the side of the seat. Push it
forward to bring the seat to
a more upright position.
Push it rearward to recline
the seatback.

Press the button a second time and the LO light will
come on. The seat will warm to a lower temperature.
Press the button a third time to turn off the heated seat.
The heater will also turn off automatically when the
ignition is turned off.

1-5

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CAUTION:

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

1-6

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is
in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle
up, your safety belts can’t do their job when
you’re reclined like this.
The shoulder belt can’t do its job. In a crash you
could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries.
The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the
belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt
forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones.
This could cause serious internal injuries.
For proper protection when the vehicle is in
motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit
well back in the seat and wear your safety
belt properly.

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

Seatback Latches

CAUTION:
If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move
forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could
cause injury to the person sitting there. Always
press rearward on the seatback to be sure it
is locked.

There’s one time the seatback may not fold without
some help from you. That’s if your vehicle is parked
going down a fairly steep hill.
To fold a seatback forward
if it does lock in place, push
the seatback toward the rear
as you lift this latch. Then
the seatback will fold
forward. The latch must
be down for the seat to
work properly.

The front seatback folds forward to let people get into
the back seat. Your seatback will move back and forth
freely, unless you come to a sudden stop. Then it will
lock in place.

1-7

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

CAUTION:
Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear
a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and
you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries
can be much worse. You can hit things inside the
vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously
injured or killed. In the same crash, you might
not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your
safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts
are fastened properly too.

1-8

CAUTION:
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area,
inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision,
people riding in these areas are more likely to be
seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to
ride in any area of your vehicle that is not
equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure
everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a
safety belt properly.

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Your vehicle has a light
that comes on as a reminder
to buckle up. (See “Safety
Belt Reminder Light” in
the Index.)

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

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to
wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.
You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a
crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.
A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so
serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive.
But most crashes are in between. In many of them,
people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk
away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt
or killed.
After more than 30 years of safety belts in vehicles,
the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does
matter ... a lot!

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

1-9

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Put someone on it.

1-10

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

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The person keeps going until stopped by something.

or the instrument panel ...

In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...

1-11

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Here Are Questions Many People Ask
About Safety Belts -- and the Answers
Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an
accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

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

1-12

You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety
belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt,
even if you’re upside down. And your chance of
being conscious during and after an accident, so
you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if
you are belted.

If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to
wear safety belts?

Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in
most of them in the future. But they are
supplemental systems only; so they work with
safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag
system ever offered for sale has required the use of
safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air
bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most
protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions,
but especially in side and other collisions.

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If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from
home, why should I wear safety belts?

First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your
vehicle has.

You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an
accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and
your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver
doesn’t protect you from things beyond your
control, such as bad drivers.

We’ll start with the driver position.

Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of
home. And the greatest number of serious injuries
and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph
(65 km/h).

Driver Position
This part describes the driver’s restraint system.

Lap-Shoulder Belt
The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. The shoulder portion

Adults

of the belt has an energy management loop. It is
designed to open and help protect you in certain crashes.
If it opens, you will see a label on the safety belt that
says to replace the belt. Be sure to do so. If you don’t,
the safety belt won’t work properly and won’t protect
you in another crash. For more information on replacing
safety belts after a crash, see “Replacing Safety Belts” in
the Index.

This part is only for people of adult size.

Here’s how to wear the lap-shoulder belt properly.

Be aware that there are special things to know about safety
belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller
children and babies. If a child will be riding in your
vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.”
Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.

1. Close and lock the door.

Safety belts are for everyone.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)
so you can sit up straight.

1-13

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3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.
4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If
the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt
Extender” at the end of this section.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the
safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

1-14

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

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Shoulder Belt Tightness Adjustment
Your car has a shoulder belt tightness adjustment
feature. If the shoulder belt seems too tight, adjust it
before you begin to drive.

4. Let the belt go back all the way. You should hear a
slight clicking sound. If you don’t, the adjustment
feature won’t set, and you’ll have to start again.

1. Sit well back in the seat.
2. Start pulling the shoulder belt out.

5. Now you can add a small amount of slack. Lean
forward slightly, then sit back. If you’ve added more
than 1 inch (25 mm) of slack, pull the shoulder belt
out as you did before and start again.
3. Just before it reaches the end, give it a quick pull.

1-15

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If you move around in the vehicle enough, pull out the
shoulder belt, or open your door, the belt will become
tight again. If this happens, you can reset it.

What’s wrong with this?

The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly
as much protection this way.

1-16

CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is
too loose. In a crash, you would move forward
too much, which could increase injury. The
shoulder belt should fit against your body. Don’t
allow more than 1 inch (25 mm) of slack.

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What’s wrong with this?

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

The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

1-17

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What’s wrong with this?

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

The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should
be worn over the shoulder at all times.

1-18

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What’s wrong with this?

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

The belt is twisted across the body.

1-19

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

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
The belt should go back out of the way.
Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the
way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the
belt and your vehicle.
A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and
the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below
the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

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

Right Front Passenger Position
To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt
properly, see “Driver Position” earlier in this section.
The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way
as the driver’s safety belt -- except for one thing. If you ever
pull the lap portion of the belt out all the way, you will
engage the child restraint locking feature. If this happens, just
let the belt go back all the way and start again.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS) or air bag system.
Your vehicle has “Next Generation” frontal air
bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air
bag for the right front passenger.
Next Generation frontal air bags are designed to help reduce
the risk of injury from the force of an inflating air bag. But
even these air bags must inflate very quickly if they are to do
their job and comply with federal regulations.

Here are the most important things to know about the air
bag system:

CAUTION:
You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if
you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you
have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a
crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things
inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags
are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts.
All air bags -- even Next Generation air bags -- are
designed to work with safety belts, but don’t
replace them. Air bags are designed to work only
in moderate to severe crashes where the front of
your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed
to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed
frontal crashes. And, for unrestrained occupants,
Next Generation air bags may provide less
protection in frontal crashes than more forceful
air bags have provided in the past. Everyone
in your vehicle should wear a safety belt
properly -- whether or not there’s an air bag
for that person.

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CAUTION:
Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the
blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating
air bag, as you would be if you were leaning
forward, it could seriously injure you. This is true
even with Next Generation frontal air bags.
Safety belts help keep you in position before and
during a crash. Always wear your safety belt,
even with Next Generation air bags. The driver
should sit as far back as possible while still
maintaining control of the vehicle.

1-22

CAUTION:
Children who are up against, or very close to, any
air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or
killed. This is true even though your vehicle has
Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags plus
lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for
adults, but not for young children and infants.
Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air
bag system is designed for them. Young children
and infants need the protection that a child
restraint system can provide. Always secure
children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see
the part of this manual called “Children” and see
the caution labels on the sunvisors and the right
front passenger’s safety belt.

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There is an air bag
readiness light on the
instrument panel, which
shows AIR BAG.

How the Air Bag System Works

The system checks the air bag electrical system for
malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical
problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index
for more information.

Where are the air bags?
The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the
steering wheel.

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CAUTION:
If something is between an occupant and an air
bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it
might force the object into that person. The path
of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t
put anything between an occupant and an air
bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the
steering wheel hub or on or near any other air
bag covering.

The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument
panel on the passenger’s side.

1-24

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When should an air bag inflate?
An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe
frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if
the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold
level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t
move or deform, the threshold level is about 8 to 11 mph
(13 to 18 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however,
with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat
above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes
something that will move or deform, such as a parked car,
the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not
designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear
impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant.
In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air
bag should have inflated simply because of the damage
to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were.
Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and
how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or
near-frontal impacts.
What makes an air bag inflate?
In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing
system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing
system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which
inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related
hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the
steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the
right front passenger.

How does an air bag restrain?
In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions,
even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the
instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection
provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of
the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body,
stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would
not help you in many types of collisions, including
rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because
an occupant’s motion is not toward those air bags. Air
bags should never be regarded as anything more than a
supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to
severe frontal or near-frontal collisions.
What will you see after an air bag inflates?
After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly
that some people may not even realize the air bag
inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the
steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the
instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag -will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that
come into contact with you may be warm, but not too
hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming
from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation
doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or from being
able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from
leaving the vehicle.

1-25

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D Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing

CAUTION:
When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air.
This dust could cause breathing problems for
people with a history of asthma or other
breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the
vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so.
If you have breathing problems but can’t get out
of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get
fresh air by opening a window or door.
In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag,
windshields are broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the
right front passenger air bag.

D Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they
inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag
system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system
won’t be there to help protect you in another crash.
A new system will include air bag modules and
possibly other parts. The service manual for your
vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

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

D Let only qualified technicians work on your air

bag system. Improper service can mean that your
air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer
for service.

NOTICE:
If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the
right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may not
work properly. You may have to replace the air
bag module in the steering wheel or both the air
bag module and the instrument panel for the
right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or
break the air bag coverings.

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If your vehicle ever gets into a lot of water -- such as
water up to the carpeting or higher -- or if water enters
your vehicle and soaks the carpet, the air bag controller
can be soaked and ruined. If this ever happens, and then
you start your vehicle, the damage could make the air
bags inflate, even if there’s no crash. You would have to
replace the air bags as well as the sensors and related
parts. If your vehicle is ever in a flood, or if it’s exposed
to water that soaks the carpet, you can avoid needless
repair costs by turning off the vehicle immediately and
disconnecting the battery cables. Don’t let anyone start
the vehicle under any circumstances. See your dealer
for service.

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

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.
There are parts of the air bag system in several places
around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to
inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your
dealer and the Riviera Service Manual have information
about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To
purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner
Publications” in the Index.

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt
If your vehicle has a bench seat, someone can sit in the
center position.

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

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

Rear Seat Passengers
It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up!
Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear
seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are
wearing safety belts.
Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown
out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others
in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.
To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until
the belt is snug.

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Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

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

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.
The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across
you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back
slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you
more slowly.

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

If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the
latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.
The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide
on top.

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4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as
described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions”
earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder
belt crosses the shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze
the belt edges together so that you can take them out
from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its
storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip.
Rotate the guide and clip inward and in between the
seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of
elastic cord exposed.

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Children
Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes
infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither
the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler
changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints.
In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in
every Canadian province says children up to some age
must be restrained while in a vehicle.

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Smaller Children and Babies

CAUTION:
Children who are up against, or very close to, any
air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured
or killed. This is true even though your vehicle
has Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags
plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection
for adults, but not for young children and
infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system
nor its air bag system is designed for them.
Young children and infants need the protection
that a child restraint system can provide. Always
secure children properly in your vehicle.

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

Infants need complete support, including support for the
head and neck. This is necessary because an infant’s neck
is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the
rest of its body. In a frontal crash, an infant in a rear-facing
restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be
distributed across the strongest part of the infant’s body,
the back and shoulders. A baby should be secured in an
appropriate infant restraint. This is so important that many
hospitals today won’t release a newborn infant to its
parents unless there is an infant restraint available for the
baby’s first trip in a motor vehicle.

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CAUTION: (Continued)
at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby
will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on
your arms. The baby would be almost impossible
to hold.
Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

CAUTION:
Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a
vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a
crash. During a crash a baby will become so
heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash
CAUTION: (Continued)

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Child Restraints
Every time infants and young children ride in
vehicles, they should have protection provided by
appropriate restraints.

What are the different types of add-on
child restraints?

Add-on child restraints are available in four basic
types. When selecting a child restraint, take into
consideration not only the child’s weight and size,
but also whether or not the restraint will be
compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will
be used.

An infant car bed (A) is a special bed made for use
in a motor vehicle. It’s an infant restraint system
designed to restrain or position a child on a
continuous flat surface. With an infant car bed,
make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the
center of the vehicle.

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A rear-facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant
to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear-facing infant
restraints are designed for infants of up to about
20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type
of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head,
neck and body can have the support they need in a
frontal crash. Some infant seats come in two
parts -- the base stays secured in the vehicle
and the seat part is removable.

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A forward-facing child restraint (C-E) positions a
child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These
forward-facing restraints are designed to help protect
children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and
about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up
to around four years of age. One type, a convertible
restraint, is designed to be used either as a rear-facing
infant seat or a forward-facing child seat.

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A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who
are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs.
(18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four
to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to
improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system.
Booster seats with shields use lap-only belts;
however, booster seats without shields use
lap-shoulder belts. Booster seats can also
help a child to see out the window.

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When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child
restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it
will have a label saying that it meets federal motor
vehicle safety standards.
Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may
find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a
booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in
your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within
the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury.
The instructions that come with the infant or child
restraint will show you how to do that. Both the owner’s
manual and the child restraint instructions are important,
so if either one of these is not available, obtain a
replacement copy from the manufacturer.

Where to Put the Restraint
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at
General Motors therefore recommend that you put your
child restraint in the rear seat. Never put a rear-facing
child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

CAUTION:
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your
vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. This
is because the back of the rear-facing child
restraint would be very close to the inflating air
bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint
in a rear seat.
You may secure a forward-facing child restraint
in the right front seat, but before you do, always
move the front passenger seat as far back as it
will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in
a rear seat.

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Top Strap

CAUTION:
A child in a child restraint in the center front seat
can be badly injured or killed by the right front
passenger air bag if it inflates, even though your
vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags.
Never secure a child restraint in the center front
seat. It’s always better to secure a child restraint
in the rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing
child restraint in the right front passenger seat,
but before you do, always move the front
passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better
to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child
restraint properly.
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move
around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in
the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child
restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

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Canadian law requires that forward-facing child restraints
have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored.

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If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be
anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, your
dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and
installation instructions specifically designed for this
vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you.
This work will be done for you free of charge. Or, you
may install the anchor yourself using the instructions
provided in the kit.

2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or
around the restraint. The child restraint instructions
will show you how.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear
Outside Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part
about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure
to follow the instructions that came with the child
restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and
as the instructions say.
1. Put the restraint on the seat.

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

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

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5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while
you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using
a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it
helpful to use your knee to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.
6. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt
will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult
or larger child passenger.

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Securing a Child Restraint in the Center
Rear Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the
instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure
the child in the child restraint when and as the
instructions say.

CAUTION:
A child in a child restraint in the center front seat
can be badly injured or killed by the right front
passenger air bag if it inflates even though your
vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags.
Never secure a child restraint in the center front
seat. It’s always better to secure a child restraint
in the rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing
child restraint in the right front passenger seat,
but before you do, always move the front
passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better
to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.
See the earlier part about the top strap if the child
restraint has one.

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1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch
plate and pulling it along the belt.
2. Put the restraint on the seat.
3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the
restraint. The child restraint instructions will show
you how.

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4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the
safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push
down on the child restraint. If you’re using a
forward-facing child restraint, you may find it
helpful to use your knee to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.

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6. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger
child passenger.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right
Front Seat Position

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

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Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a
forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat.
You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part
about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure
to follow the instructions that came with the child
restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and
as the instructions say.
1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air
bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go
before securing a forward-facing child restraint.
(See “Seats” in the Index.)
2. Put the restraint on the seat.
3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or
around the restraint. The child restraint instructions
will show you how.
If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or
neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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

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5. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the
retractor to set the lock.

6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the
retractor while you push down on the child restraint.
You may find it helpful to use your knee to push
down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt
will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult
or larger child passenger.

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Larger Children

If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a
window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and
get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the
safety belts properly.

D Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in
a crash.

D Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other
people who are.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should
wear the vehicle’s safety belts.

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

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

Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but
be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s
shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body
would have the restraint that belts provide. If the
child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see
“Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index.
If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still
very close to the child’s face or neck, you might
want to place the child in the center seat position,
the one that has only a lap belt.

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CAUTION:
Never do this.
Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a
lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind
the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in
a crash the child might slide under the belt. The
belt’s force would then be applied right on the
child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or
fatal injuries.
Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt
should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching
the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s
pelvic bones in a crash.

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Safety Belt Extender

Checking Your Restraint Systems

If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you
should use it.

Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light
and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and
anchorages are working properly. Look for any other
loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see
anything that might keep a safety belt system from
doing its job, have it repaired.

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

Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a
crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is
torn or frayed, get a new one right away.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and
have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system
does not need regular maintenance.)

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Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash
If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts?
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.
But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn
during a more severe crash, then you need new belts.

If you ever see a label on the driver’s or the right front
passenger’s safety belt that says to replace the belt, be
sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help
protect you in a collision. You would see this label on
the belt near the latch plate.
If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision
damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt
or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs
may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at
the time of the collision.
If your seat adjuster won’t work after a crash, the special
part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the
adjuster may need to be replaced.
If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag
system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in
this section.

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Section 2 Features and Controls
Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting,
shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is
working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.
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Keys
Door Locks
Remote Keyless Entry System
Trunk
Theft
Universal Theft-Deterrent (Option)
PASS-KeyR II
New Vehicle “Break-In”
Ignition Positions
Starting Your Engine
Engine Coolant Heater (Option)
Automatic Transaxle Operation
Parking Brake
Shifting Into PARK (P)
Shifting Out of PARK (P)
Parking Over Things That Burn

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Engine Exhaust
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked
Windows
Tilt Wheel
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
Exterior Lamps
Interior Lamps
Mirrors
Storage Compartments
Accessory Power Outlet
OnStarR System (Option)
Universal Transmitter (Option)
The Instrument Panel - Your
Information System
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

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

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The ignition key is for the
ignition only.

When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer removes the
bar-coded key tags from the keys, and gives them to the
first owner.
Each tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a
qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the
tags in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able
to have new ones made easily using the tag. If you
misplace your tag, go to your dealer for the correct key
code if you need a new ignition key.

The door key is for the
doors and all other locks.

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

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

To lock the door from the inside, move the lock control
on the door forward.
To unlock the door, move the lock control toward the
rear of the vehicle. There is a red mark on the lock
control which shows when the door is unlocked.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
From the outside, use your door key.
If your vehicle has a theft-deterrent system and it is
activated, unlock the doors only with the key or remote
keyless entry system. This will avoid setting off
the alarm.

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

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Power Door Locks

Memory Door Locks
Press the power DOOR
LOCK/UNLOCK switch
to lock or unlock both
doors at once.

Door Ajar Reminder

This is a Personal Choice feature that programs your
door locks to automatically lock or unlock.
Close the doors and turn on the ignition. Every time you
move the shift lever out of PARK (P), all of the doors
will lock. And, every time you stop and move the shift
lever into PARK (P), the doors will unlock. If someone
needs to get out while you’re not in PARK (P), have that
person use the manual or power lock. When the door is
closed again, it will not lock automatically. Just use the
manual or power lock to lock the door again. If you
need to lock the doors before shifting out of PARK (P),
use the manual or power lock button to lock the doors.

If one of the doors on your vehicle is not closed
properly, the DOOR AJAR light on the instrument panel
will come on and stay on until the doors are closed and
completely latched.

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Customizing Your Memory Door Locks Feature

Vehicles are delivered programmed in Mode 3.

You can program the memory door locks feature to
change to the following modes:

To change the modes:

Mode Operation
0

No automatic door lock or unlock.

Both doors automatically lock when shifted
out of PARK (P). No automatic door unlock.

Both doors automatically lock when shifted
out of PARK (P). Only the driver’s door
automatically unlocks when shifted into
PARK (P).

Both doors automatically lock when shifted
out of PARK (P). Both doors automatically
unlock when shifted into PARK (P).

1. Close both doors and turn the ignition on. Keep both
doors closed throughout this procedure.
2. Press and hold LOCK on the driver’s power door
lock switch through Step 4.
3. Press the LOCK button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter. The memory door locks will remain in
the current mode.
4. Press the LOCK button on the transmitter again.
Each time the transmitter’s LOCK button is pressed,
the mode will advance by one, going from Mode 3
to 0 to 1, etc.
NOTE: The door locks will cycle according to the
mode entered while customizing memory door locks.
(Mode “0” has no feedback.)
5. Release the power door lock switch. The memory
door locks will remain in the most recent
mode selected.
This procedure changes the mode for only the
transmitter used to change this setting. The procedure
will need to be repeated for the second transmitter.

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Delayed Locking
This Personal Choice feature lets the driver delay the
actual locking of the vehicle. When the power door lock
switch is pressed with the key removed from the ignition
and the driver’s door open, a chime will sound three
times to signal that the lock delay mode is active. When
both doors have been closed, the doors will lock
automatically after five seconds. If either door is opened
before this, the five-second timer will reset itself once
both doors have been closed again.
Pressing the door lock switch twice within two seconds
will override this feature.
Personal Choice Programming
The delayed locking feature can be turned on or off for
each driver’s remote keyless entry transmitter.
To turn the feature on:
1. Press and hold LOCK on the driver’s power door
lock switch throughout this procedure. Both doors
will lock.
2. Press the UNLOCK button on the transmitter to
enter the programming mode. The lock delay is still
off and both doors will remain locked.

3. Press the UNLOCK button on the transmitter again.
Lock delay is now active and both doors will unlock.
4. Release the power door lock switch.
To turn this feature off, repeat this procedure.
This procedure changes the mode for only the
transmitter used to change this setting. The procedure
will need to be repeated for the second transmitter.

Lockout Protection
The power door locks will not work if the key is left in
the ignition with the driver’s door open. You can
override this feature by holding the power door lock
switch for more than three seconds, unless the engine
is running.

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

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Remote Keyless Entry System
You can lock and unlock
your doors or unlock your
trunk from about 3 feet
(1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m)
away using the remote
keyless entry transmitter
supplied with your vehicle.

Your remote keyless entry system operates on a radio
frequency subject to Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

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This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of
the device.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an
authorized service facility could void authorization to
use this equipment.

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This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet
(9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This
is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the
transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to
your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this:

D Check to determine if battery replacement or

resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions
that follow.

D Check the distance. You may be too far from your

vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy
or snowy weather.

D Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be
blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or
right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.

D If you’re still having trouble, see your dealer or a
qualified technician for service.

Operation
The driver’s door will unlock when UNLOCK is
pressed. If UNLOCK is pressed again within five
seconds, both doors will unlock. Pressing the UNLOCK
button will also illuminate the interior lamps. See
“Illuminated Entry” in the Index. Both doors will lock
when LOCK is pressed.
The trunk will unlock when the trunk button is pressed
when the ignition is off. The trunk button will also work
when the ignition is on, but only while the vehicle is in
PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Instant Alarm
When the button with the horn symbol on the remote
keyless entry transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound
and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to one
minute. This can be turned off by pressing the instant
alarm button again or by turning the ignition on.
If your vehicle is equipped with the Universal
Theft-Deterrent feature, you may also turn off the
instant alarm by unlocking the vehicle with a key.

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Remote Keyless Entry Personal Choice Features
The following list of features that are available on your
vehicle can be programmed to the driver’s preference
for each transmitter.

D Memory Seat and Mirrors: This feature programs
your driver’s seat and outside mirrors to a set
memory position when the UNLOCK button on the
remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed.

D Security Feedback: This feature provides feedback
to the driver when the vehicle receives a command
from the remote keyless entry transmitter.

D Perimeter Lighting: When the UNLOCK button on
the transmitter is pressed, the headlamps, parking
lamps, back-up lamps and cornering lamps will turn
on in dark conditions.

For more detailed information and programming
instructions, refer to the Index for each individual
feature listed above.
Security Feedback
This personal choice feature provides feedback to the
driver when the vehicle receives a command from the
remote keyless entry transmitter. The following modes
may be selected:
Mode 0: No response when locking or
unlocking vehicle.
Mode 1: No response when locking; headlamps, parking
lamps and cornering lamps (if equipped) flash when
unlocking vehicle.

D Memory Door Locks: This feature programs your

Mode 2: Headlamps, parking lamps and cornering
lamps (if equipped) flash when locking; no response
when unlocking vehicle.

D Delayed Locking: This feature lets the driver delay

Mode 3: Headlamps, parking lamps and cornering
lamps (if equipped) flash when locking and when
unlocking vehicle.

door locks to automatically lock or unlock when
shifting in and out of PARK (P).

the actual locking of the vehicle. When both doors
have been closed, the doors will lock automatically
after five seconds.

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Mode 4: Headlamps, parking lamps and cornering
lamps (if equipped) flash and horn chirps when locking;
no response when unlocking vehicle.

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Mode 5: Headlamps, parking lamps and cornering
lamps (if equipped) flash and horn chirps when locking;
exterior lamps flash when unlocking vehicle.
Vehicles are delivered programmed in Mode 5. To
change to another mode:
1. Turn the ignition key to OFF.
2. Press and hold LOCK on the driver’s power door
lock switch throughout the procedure.
3. Press the trunk button on the transmitter to enter the
programming mode. The transmitter will remain in
its current mode.
4. Press the trunk button again. Each time the trunk
button is pressed, the horn will chirp and the
transmitter will advance to the next mode.
5. Release the power door lock switch.
This procedure changes the mode for only the
transmitter used to change this setting. The procedure
will need to be repeated for the second transmitter.

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle
Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to
prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle.
If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be
purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any
remaining transmitters with you when you go to your
dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement
transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters
must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the
new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your
vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters
matched to it.
See your dealer to match additional transmitters to
your vehicle.

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

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To replace the battery:

NOTICE:
When replacing the battery, use care not to touch
any of the circuitry. Static from your body
transferred to these surfaces may damage
the transmitter.

1. Insert a coin into the notch near the key ring.
Turn the coin to the left to separate the two halves of
the transmitter.
2. Once the transmitter is separated, use a pencil eraser
to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object.
3. Remove and replace the battery. Insert the new
battery as the instructions under the cover indicate.
4. Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure
no moisture can enter.
5. Test the operation of the transmitter with your
vehicle. If the transmitter does not work,
resynchronize the transmitter.

Resynchronization
After you have changed the battery in your transmitter,
or if only the instant alarm button works, the transmitter
needs to be resynchronized to the receiver. Do this by
pressing and holding both the LOCK and UNLOCK
buttons on the transmitter for about eight seconds. You
must be within range of the vehicle.
For battery replacement, use a DuracellR battery, type
DL-2032, or a similar type.

2-12

Once the transmitter has been resynchronized, the horn
will chirp and the exterior lamps will flash once. The
system should now operate properly.

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Trunk
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid
open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can
come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell
CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death.
If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if
electrical wiring or other cable connections must
pass through the seal between the body and the
trunk lid:
D Make sure all other windows are shut.
D Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
system to its highest speed with the setting
on VENT. That will force outside air into
your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in
the Index.
D If you have air outlets on or under the
instrument panel, open them all the way.
See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Trunk Lock Release
To unlock the trunk from the outside, turn the lock cover
to expose the key hole. Insert the door key and turn it.

Remote Trunk Release
Press the TRUNK release
button located below the
driver’s door handle to
release the trunk lid. The
trunk will open if the
transaxle is in PARK (P)
and if the trunk release
lockout is not off.

If you have the remote keyless entry system, it also
will unlock your trunk if the ignition is off, or if the
ignition is on and the transaxle is in PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N).

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Remote Trunk Release Lockout

Theft
Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.
Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent
features, we know that nothing we put on it can make
it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you
can help.

Key in the Ignition
If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an
easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so
don’t do it.

The trunk release lockout switch in the glove box allows
you to secure items in the trunk. Move the trunk release
switch off, lock the glove box and take the key with you.
Now the trunk release on the driver’s door will not open
the trunk.

Trunk Security Override
The remote keyless entry transmitter will open the trunk
even if the trunk release lockout switch is off.

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With the ignition off and the driver’s door open, you’ll
hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from
the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your
steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition
and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors.

Parking at Night
Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your
vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight.
Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.

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This light reminds you to
activate the theft-deterrent
system. Here’s how to do it:

Parking Lots
If you park in a lot where someone will be watching
your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys.
But what if you have to leave your ignition key?

D If possible, park in a busy, well lit area.
D Put your valuables in a storage area, like your

trunk or glove box. Be sure to close and lock the
storage area.

D
D
D
D
D

Close all windows.
Move the trunk release lockout switch to OFF.
Lock the glove box.
Lock all the doors except the driver’s.
Then take the door key and remote keyless entry
transmitter with you.

Universal Theft-Deterrent (Option)
If your vehicle has this option, it has a theft-deterrent
alarm system. With this system, if your ignition is off,
the SECURITY light will flash as you open the door.

1. Open the door.
2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or
remote keyless entry system. The SECURITY light
should come on and stay on.
3. Close both doors. The SECURITY light should go
off after about 30 seconds. The security system is not
armed until the SECURITY light is off. If the
SECURITY light stays on or flashes when the
ignition is turned on, there is a problem with the
system and the vehicle should be serviced.
If the SECURITY light comes on for one minute and
then shuts off while the ignition is on, the security
system has detected a problem. See your dealer
for service.

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If a door or the trunk is opened without the key or
remote keyless entry system, the alarm will go off. It
will also go off if the trunk lock or door locks are
damaged. Your vehicle’s lamps will flash and the horn
will sound for one minute, then will go off to save
battery power.
Remember, the theft-deterrent system won’t be activated
if you lock the doors with a key or use the manual door
lock. It only activates if you use a power door lock
switch or remote keyless entry system. You should also
remember that you can start your vehicle with the
correct ignition key if the alarm has been set off, but this
does not shut off the alarm.
Here’s how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident:

D If you don’t want to activate the theft-deterrent
system, lock the door either using a key or the
manual door lock switch.

D Always unlock a door with a key, or use the remote
keyless entry system. Unlocking a door any other
way will set off the alarm.

If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock either door
with your key.
You can also turn off the alarm by pressing UNLOCK
on the remote keyless entry transmitter. The alarm won’t
stop if you try to unlock a door any other way.

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Testing the Alarm
The alarm can be tested by following these steps:
1. From inside the vehicle, roll down the driver’s
window and open the driver’s door.
2. Activate the system by locking the doors with the
power door lock switch while the door is open, or
with the remote keyless entry transmitter.
3. Get out of the car, close the door and wait for the
SECURITY light to go out.
4. Then reach in through the window, unlock the door
with the manual door lock and open the door. This
should set off the alarm.
If the alarm does not sound when it should, but the
vehicle’s lamps flash, check to see if the horn works.
The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse, see
“Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.
If the alarm does not sound, or the vehicle’s lamps do
not flash, the vehicle should be serviced by an
authorized service center.

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PASS-KeyR II
Your vehicle is equipped
with the PASS-Key II
(Personalized Automotive
Security System)
theft-deterrent system.
PASS-Key II is a passive
theft-deterrent system.
It works when you insert
or remove the key from
the ignition.
PASS-Key II uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key
that matches a decoder in your vehicle.
When the PASS-Key II system senses that someone is
using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter
and fuel systems. For about three minutes, the starter
won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone
tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key
during this time, the vehicle will not start. This
discourages someone from randomly trying different
keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make
a match.

The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s
inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the
engine does not start and the SECURITY light comes
on, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition off.
Clean and dry the key. Wait about three minutes and try
again. The SECURITY light may remain on during this
time. If the starter still won’t work, and the key appears
to be clean and dry, wait about three minutes and try
another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to
check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the
Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your
vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first
ignition key may be faulty. See your dealer or a
locksmith who can service the PASS-Key II.
If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or
missing resistor pellet, the starter won’t work. The
SECURITY light will flash too. But you don’t have to
wait three minutes before trying another ignition key.
See your dealer or a locksmith who can service the
PASS-Key II to have a new key made.

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If you’re ever driving and the SECURITY light comes
on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn it
off. Your PASS-Key II system, however, is not working
properly and must be serviced by your dealer. Your
vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key II system.
If you lose or damage a PASS-Key II ignition key, see
your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key II
to have a new key made. In an emergency, call the Buick
Premium Roadside Assistance Center at
1-800-252-1112. In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800.

2-18

New Vehicle “Break-In”
NOTICE:
Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate
“break-in.” But it will perform better in the long
run if you follow these guidelines:
D Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or
slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km).
Don’t make full-throttle starts.
D Avoid making hard stops for the first
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time
your new brake linings aren’t yet broken
in. Hard stops with new linings can mean
premature wear and earlier replacement.
Follow this breaking-in guideline every
time you get new brake linings.
D Don’t tow a trailer during break-in.
See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for
more information.

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Ignition Positions
CAUTION:
Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition
key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or
others could be injured or even killed. They could
operate power windows or other controls or even
make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in
the vehicle with children.
The key with the black plastic head operates the ignition
lock. With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you
can turn the ignition switch to five different positions.

ACCESSORY (A): In this position, you can operate the
electrical power accessories. Press in the ignition key as
you turn the top of it toward you.

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

2-20

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

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Retained Accessory Power

Starting Your Engine

After you turn the ignition to LOCK and remove the
key, for about 10 minutes, you will have electrical
power to such accessories as the radio, power windows
and astroroof (option). If you open a door, the retained
accessory power is shut off.

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

Always leave your key in LOCK. If your leave your key
in any other position than LOCK, your battery will
discharge prematurely.

NOTICE:
Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is
moving. If you do, you could damage the
transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your
vehicle is stopped.
1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your
engine gets warm.

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NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than
15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be
drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can
damage your starter motor. Wait about
15 seconds between each try to help avoid
draining your battery or damaging your starter.

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

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in
START for about three to five seconds at a time until
your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between
each try to help avoid draining your battery or
damaging your starter.
3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then
stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline.
Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the
floor and holding it there as you hold the key in
START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts
briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but
this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds.
This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. After
waiting about 15 seconds, repeat the normal
starting procedure.

2-22

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Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

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

In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the engine
coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and
better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually,
the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of
four hours prior to starting your vehicle.

To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.

4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store
the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving
engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged
in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the
kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of
trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact
your dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your
vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that
particular area.

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Automatic Transaxle Operation

There are several different positions for your shift lever.
PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It’s
the best position to use when you start your engine
because your vehicle can’t move easily.

2-24

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

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REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

CAUTION:
NOTICE:
Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is
moving forward could damage your transaxle.
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle
is stopped.
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow,
ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see
“Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t
connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already
moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL
(N) when your vehicle is being towed.

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

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

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AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ): This position is
for normal driving. If you need more power for passing,
and you’re:

D Going less than approximately 35 mph (55 km/h),
push your accelerator pedal about halfway down.

D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the
accelerator all the way down.

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal
driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel
economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ). Here
are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ):

D when driving on hilly, winding roads,
D when towing a trailer, so there is less shifting
between gears, or

D when going down a steep hill.

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SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but
lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE
( ) or THIRD (3). You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It
can help control your speed as you go down steep
mountain roads, but then you would also want to use
your brakes off and on.

NOTICE:
Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than
25 miles (41 km), or at speeds over 55 mph
(88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle.
Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ) or
THIRD (3) as much as possible.
Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going
slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can
damage your engine.

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

Parking Brake

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

Setting the parking brake: Hold the regular brake
pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking
brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the
brake system warning light will come on and a single
chime will be heard.
The parking brake uses the brakes on the rear wheels.

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Releasing the parking brake: You will need to use the
PUSH TO RELEASE parking brake pedal. Hold the
regular brake pedal down and push the parking brake
pedal with your left foot. This will release the parking
brake. When you lift your left foot, the parking brake
pedal will follow it to the release position.
If you try to drive with the parking brake on, the brake
light stays on and a chime sounds until you release the
parking brake or recycle the ignition.

NOTICE:
Driving with the parking brake on can cause
your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to
replace them, and you could also damage other
parts of your vehicle.
If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see
“Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows
what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

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

Console Shift Lever
1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and
set the parking brake.

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2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this:

Leaving Your Vehicle With the
Engine Running

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

D Hold in the button on the lever.
D Push the lever all the way toward the front of
your vehicle.

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

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

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

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Shifting Out of PARK (P)
CAUTION:
Before shifting out of PARK (P) you must fully
apply your regular brakes. Your vehicle can roll.
If you have left the engine running, the vehicle
can move suddenly. You or others could be
injured. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing
a Trailer” in the Index,
Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock
(BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brake
before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is
in RUN. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index.

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Your vehicle has a BRAKE TO SHIFT reminder light.
This light comes on to remind you to apply the brake
pedal before you can shift from PARK (P).

Parking Over Things That Burn

If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on
the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into
PARK (P) and also release the shift lever button as you
maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever
into the gear you want. (Press the shift lever button
before moving the shift lever.) If you ever hold the brake
pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this:
1. Turn the key to the OFF ignition position. Open and
close the driver’s door to turn off the retained
accessory power feature.
2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4.
3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N).
4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear
you want.
5. Take your vehicle to an authorized service center as
soon as you can.

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

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Engine Exhaust
CAUTION:
Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas
carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or
smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death.
You might have exhaust coming in if:
D Your exhaust system sounds strange
or different.
D Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.
D Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.
D Your vehicle was damaged when driving
over high points on the road or over
road debris.
D Repairs weren’t done correctly.
D Your vehicle or exhaust system had been
modified improperly.
If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into
your vehicle:
D Drive it only with all the windows down to
blow out any CO; and
D Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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

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

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CAUTION:

Windows
Power Windows

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

Switches on the driver’s armrest control each of the
windows while the ignition is on or retained accessory
power is active. In addition, the passenger’s door
armrest has a switch for its own window.
To lower the passenger’s window, pull back on the right
switch. The window will lower as long as the switch is
held. To raise either window, push the switch forward.

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Express-Down Window

Tilt Wheel

The switch for the driver’s window has an express-down
feature. When the driver’s AUTO switch is held
rearward, the window will automatically lower
completely. To stop the window while it is lowering,
press the switch again and then release. The window can
be opened in smaller amounts by pressing the switch
rearward and releasing it immediately. To raise the
window, hold the switch forward.

Horn
Nearly the entire surface of the center of the steering
wheel is an active horn pad. Press the horn anywhere on
the steering wheel pad to sound the horn.

A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering
wheel before you drive.
You can also raise it to the highest level to give your
legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.
To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the
lever toward you. Move the steering wheel to a
comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the
wheel in place.

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Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

Turn and Lane Change Signals
The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two
downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you
to signal a turn or a lane change.
To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or
down. When the turn is finished, the lever will
return automatically.
An arrow on the instrument
panel will flash in the
direction of the turn or
lane change.

The lever on the left side of the steering column
includes your:

D
D
D
D
D

Turn and Lane Change Signals
Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer
Flash-To-Pass Feature
Windshield Wipers and Washer

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever
until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you
complete your lane change. The lever will return by
itself when you release it.
As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don’t
flash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned out
and other drivers won’t see your turn signal.

Cruise Control

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If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an
accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you
signal a turn, check the fuse and check for burned-out
bulbs. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.

This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to
signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass.
To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you a little,
but not so far that you hear a click.

Turn Signal Reminder
If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile,
a chime will sound. To turn off the chime, move the turn
signal lever to the off position.

Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer
To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high
to low, pull the turn signal lever toward you until you
hear a click. Then release it.
When the high beams are
on, this light on the
instrument panel will also
be on.

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Flash-To-Pass Feature

Your high-beam headlamps will stay on as long as you
hold the lever toward you. The high-beam indicator on
the dash will also come on. Release the lever to turn the
high-beam headlamps off.

Windshield Wipers

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You control the windshield wipers by turning the band
marked WIPER DELAY.
For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold
it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will
stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the
band on MIST longer.
You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay
between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or
snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The
closer to LO, the shorter the delay.
For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away
from you to the LO position. For high-speed wiping,
turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, turn the
band to OFF.
Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you
from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid
damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper
blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the
windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your
blades do become damaged, get new blades or
blade inserts.

Windshield Washer
At the top of the turn signal lever there’s a paddle with
the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the
windshield, just push the paddle briefly. The washer will
spray several times, then stop. Unless they are already
turned on, the wipers will operate at low speed for
several sweeps, then turn off.

CAUTION:
In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until
the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer
fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking
your vision.
To get more fluid on the windshield, push and hold
the paddle. Spraying will continue as long as the paddle
is held.

Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor. A
circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clear
away snow or ice to prevent an overload.

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When the vehicle has a low
fluid condition, the
WASHER FLUID LOW
light will come on to remind
you to get more washer
fluid soon.

When you apply your brakes, the cruise control
shuts off.

CAUTION:
D Cruise control can be dangerous where you

Cruise Control
With cruise control, you can
maintain a speed of about
25 mph (40 km/h) or more
without keeping your foot
on the accelerator. This is
helpful on long trips.

Cruise control does not work at speeds below about
25 mph (40 km/h).

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

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

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Setting Cruise Control

CAUTION:

If you hold the switch at R/A, the vehicle will accelerate
until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless
you want to go faster, don’t hold the switch at R/A.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control

If you leave your cruise control switch on when
you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button
and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You
could be startled and even lose control. Keep the
cruise control switch off until you want to use it.
1. Move the cruise control switch to ON.
2. Get up to the speed you want.

There are two ways to go to a higher speed:

D Use the accelerator pedal to go to a higher speed.

Push the SET button at the end of the lever, then
release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll
now cruise at the higher speed. Or,

D Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it

there until you reach a desired speed and then release
the switch.

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

To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the
switch to R/A briefly and then release it. Each time you do
this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

The accelerate feature will only work after you have set
the cruise control speed by pushing the SET button.

Resuming a Set Speed
Setting the cruise control at a desired speed and then
applying the brake will end the cruise control function.
Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more,
you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A
(Resume/Accelerate) briefly to reset. This returns you to
your desired preset speed.

Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control
There are two ways to reduce your speed while using
cruise control:

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

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D To slow down in very small amounts, push the

button briefly. Each time you do this, you’ll go
1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control

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

Exterior Lamps

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

D Step lightly on the brake pedal, or
D Move the cruise switch to OFF. The CRUISE light
will also go out.

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Headlamps
This knob controls these systems:

D
D
D
D

Headlamps
Taillamps
Parking Lamps
License Plate Lamps

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D Sidemarker Lamps
D Instrument Panel Lights
D Interior Courtesy Lamps

Daytime Running Lamps
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for
others to see the front of your vehicle during the day.
DRL can be helpful in many different driving
conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the
short periods after dawn and before sunset.
A light sensor on top of the instrument panel makes the
DRL work, so be sure it isn’t covered.
The DRL system will make your high-beam headlamps
come on at reduced brightness in daylight when:

Pull the knob toward you to the first setting to turn on
the parking lamps and other operating lamps without the
headlamps. Pull the knob toward you to the second
setting to turn on the headlamps as well as the other
operating lamps.
Turn the knob from left to right to control brightness of
the instrument panel lights.

Lamps On Reminder
If the headlamp switch is left on, you’ll hear a warning
chime when you turn the ignition off, remove the key
from the ignition and open the driver’s door.

D the ignition is on,
D the headlamp switch is off and
D the transaxle is not in PARK (P).
When DRL are on, only your high-beam headlamps will
be on. The parking lamps, taillamps, sidemarker and
other lamps won’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t
be lit up either.
When it’s dark enough outside, your high-beam
headlamps will turn off and your low-beam and parking
lamps will become active. The other lamps that come on
with your headlamps will also come on. When it’s bright
enough outside, the regular lamps will go off, and your
high-beam headlamps change to the reduced brightness
of DRL.

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To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, shift the
transaxle into PARK (P). The DRL will stay off until
you shift out of PARK (P).
To turn off all exterior lamps at night when you are in
PARK (P), turn off the headlamps and move the twilight
sentinel control, located on the lower area of the
headlamp switch, all the way toward AUTO MIN. When
released, the spring control will return to the twilight
sentinel minimum delay position, and all exterior lamps
will turn off.
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular
headlamp system when you need it.

Cornering Lamps (Option)
The cornering lamps are designed to come on when you
signal a turn. This will provide more light for cornering
at night.

Twilight SentinelR

Twilight sentinel turns your headlamps, taillamps and
parking lamps on and off by sensing how dark it is
outside. The control is located on the lower area of the
headlamp switch.

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To operate this feature, leave the headlamp switch off.
The vehicle’s twilight sentinel is always enabled.
Twenty-three seconds after entering a darkened
environment, the headlamps and parking lamps will turn
on. If the ignition is turned on at night, the exterior
lamps will come on.
To turn off all exterior lamps at night when you are in
PARK (P), turn off the headlamps and move the twilight
sentinel control, located on the lower area of the
headlamp switch, all the way toward AUTO MIN. When
released, the spring control will return to the twilight
sentinel minimum delay position, and all exterior lamps
will turn off.
If you move the control all the way to AUTO MAX,
your lamps will remain on for three minutes after you
turn off your engine. If you move the control toward
AUTO MIN, the lamps will go off quickly when you
turn off your engine. You can set this delay time for only
a few seconds or up to three minutes.
Light Sensor
Your twilight sentinel and daytime running lamps work
with the light sensor on top of the instrument panel.
Don’t cover it up. If you do, it will read “dark” and the
headlamps will come on.

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Interior Lamps

Delayed Entry Lighting

Instrument Panel Brightness

When you open the door to enter your vehicle, the
interior lamps will come on. When you close the door
with the ignition off, the interior lamps will stay on for
25 seconds or until the ignition is turned to an on
position. Note that locking the doors will override the
delayed entry lighting feature and the lamps will turn off
right away.

By turning the headlamp knob you can make the
instrument panel lights brighten or dim. See
“Headlamps” in the Index.

Courtesy Lamps
When any door is opened, several lamps go on. They
make it easy for you to enter and leave the car. To turn
on these lamps without opening the door, turn the
headlamp knob to the right.

Theater Dimming
This feature allows for a three to five-second fade out of
the courtesy lamps instead of immediate turn off.

Illuminated Entry

Delayed Exit Lighting

Press the UNLOCK button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter and the interior courtesy lamps will come on
and stay on for up to one minute. The lamps will turn off
immediately when pressing the LOCK button on the
transmitter, starting the ignition or activating the power
door locks.

With this feature, the interior lamps will come on for
25 seconds after you remove the key from the ignition.
This will give you time to find the door pull handle or
lock switches when you exit the vehicle.

Parade Dimming
This feature prohibits the dimming of your instrument
panel displays during daylight while your headlamps are
on. This feature operates with the light sensor for the
twilight sentinel and is fully automatic. When the light
sensor reads darkness outside, you will be able to dim
your instrument panel displays once again.

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Perimeter Lighting

To turn the feature on:

This is a Personal Choice feature of your vehicle.

1. Turn the ignition key to OFF.

When the UNLOCK button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter is pressed, the headlamps, parking lamps,
back-up lamps and cornering lamps will come on if it is
dark enough outside according to the twilight sentinel.

2. Press and hold LOCK on the driver’s power door
lock switch throughout this procedure. All doors
will lock.

This feature can be programmed on or off for each
driver’s transmitter.
To turn the feature off:
1. Turn the ignition key to OFF.
2. Press and hold LOCK on the driver’s power door
lock switch throughout this procedure. All doors
will lock.
3. Press the instant alarm button on the transmitter.
Perimeter lighting remains on at this time and the
horn will chirp two times.
4. Press the instant alarm button on the transmitter
again. Perimeter lighting is disabled and the horn
will chirp one time.
5. Release the door lock switch. The perimeter lighting
option is now off.

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3. Press the instant alarm button on the transmitter.
Perimeter lighting remains off at this time and the
horn will chirp one time.
4. Press the instant alarm button on the transmitter
again. Perimeter lighting is now enabled and the
horn will chirp two times.
5. Release the door lock switch. The perimeter lighting
option is now on.
This procedure changes the mode for only the
transmitter used to change this setting. The procedure
will need to be repeated for the second transmitter.

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Front Reading Lamps

Trunk Lamp
When you open the trunk to its full open position, a
lamp will come on inside the trunk. This lamp will
automatically turn off when the trunk is closed.

Battery Rundown Protection
This feature automatically shuts off the interior lamps if
any are left on for more than 10 minutes when the
ignition is off. This will keep your battery from
running down.

These lamps and the interior courtesy lamps will come
on when you open a door, and turn off when you turn
the ignition on. To turn on the reading lamps when the
doors are closed, press the button behind the lamp you
want on. Press it again to turn the lamp off.

This feature also shuts off the exterior lamps if they are
left on for more than 10 minutes when the ignition is off.
You may override this feature for the exterior lamps by
turning the lamps off and then back on after the ignition
is turned to off. If you do this, the exterior lamps will
stay on until you manually turn them off.
If the feature is enabled for the interior and exterior
lamps, all lamps should turn off at approximately the
same time.

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Mirrors
Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror

Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror
(Option)
Your vehicle may have an automatic electrochromic
day/night rearview mirror.
When this feature is turned on, the mirror automatically
changes to reduce glare from headlamps behind you. A
photocell on the mirror senses when it is becoming dark
outside. Another photocell built into the mirror face
senses when headlamps are behind you.
At night, when the glare is too high, the mirror will
gradually darken to reduce glare (this change may take a
few seconds). The mirror will return to its clear daytime
state when the glare is reduced.

When you are sitting in a comfortable driving position,
adjust the mirror so you can see clearly behind your
vehicle. Grip the mirror in the center to move it up or
down and side to side. The day/night adjustment allows
you to adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the lights
behind you. Pull the tab toward you for night use; push
it away from you for daytime use.

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Mirror Operation
To turn on the automatic dimming feature, press
AUTO. To turn off automatic dimming, press OFF.
The green indicator light will be illuminated when this
feature is active.
Time Delay
The automatic mirror has a time delay feature which
prevents unnecessary switching from the night back to
the day position. This delay prevents rapid changing of
the mirror as you drive under lights and through traffic.
Cleaning the Photocells
Use a cotton swab and glass cleaner to clean the
photocells when necessary.

Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror
with Compass (Option)
Your vehicle may have an electrochromic inside
rearview mirror with a compass.

When set in the MIRROR position, this mirror
automatically changes to reduce glare from headlamps
behind you. A time delay feature prevents rapid
changing from the day to night positions while driving
under lights and through traffic.
The mirror also includes an eight-point compass display
in the upper right corner of the mirror face. When on,
the compass automatically calibrates as the vehicle
is driven.
When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar
material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass
cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause the liquid
cleaner to enter the mirror housing. Use a cotton swab and
glass cleaner to clean the photocells when necessary.

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Mirror Operation

If, after two seconds, the display does not show a
compass heading (“N” for North, for example), there
may be a strong magnetic field interfering with the
compass. Such interference may be caused by a
magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a
similar magnetic item.
Compass Calibration
If the letter “C” should ever appear in the compass
window, the mirror may need calibration.
The mirror can be calibrated in one of two ways:

The right side of the button located at the bottom of the
mirror turns the electrochromic mirror on and off. To
turn on the automatic dimming feature, press MIRROR.
To turn off automatic dimming, press MIRROR again.
The green indicator light will be illuminated when this
feature is active.
Compass Operation
Press the COMPASS button once to turn the compass on
or off.
When the ignition and the compass feature are on, the
compass will show two character boxes for
approximately two seconds. After two seconds, the
mirror will display the compass heading.

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D Drive the vehicle in circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less
until the display reads a direction, or

D Drive the vehicle on your everyday routine.
Compass Variance
The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory.
It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate
for compass variance if you live outside zone eight.
Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance
cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for
compass variance. Compass variance is the difference
between earth’s magnetic north and true geographic
north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance,
your compass could give false readings.

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To adjust for compass variance:
1. Press and hold the COMPASS button located at the
bottom of the mirror until a zone number appears in
the display.
2. Find your current location and variance zone number
on the following zone map.

3. Press the COMPASS button on the bottom of the
mirror until the new zone number appears in the
display. After you stop pressing the button, the
display will show a compass direction within a few
seconds. (This is the automatic calibration mode.
Drive in a circle to calibrate the mirror. See
“Compass Calibration” explained previously.)

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Power Remote Control Mirror

Adjust each mirror so you can see the side of your
vehicle and the area behind your vehicle. When the
inner switch is in the center position, the mirrors cannot
be adjusted.
Your vehicle may be equipped with the memory
function. These mirror positions, along with the driver’s
seat cushion position, can be stored into memory. See
“Memory Seats and Mirrors” in the Index.

Parallel Park Assist Mirror (Option)
The passenger’s outside rearview mirror also includes a
tilt-down feature that operates when the shift lever is in
REVERSE (R). This feature assists the driver with
improved rear obstacle detection.
Your vehicle has an electric mirror control located on
the driver’s door armrest.
Move the inner switch to the right (R) or left (L) to
choose either the driver’s or passenger’s side mirror.
Press any of the four arrow buttons to move the mirror
in the direction desired.

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To enable this feature, move the power remote mirror
switch to the left (L) or center position. Move the switch
to the right (R) to turn this feature off.

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Convex Outside Mirror

Heated Outside Rearview Mirror

Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex
mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the
driver’s seat.

When you operate the rear window defogger, a defogger
also warms the heated driver’s and passenger’s outside
rearview mirrors to help clear them of ice and snow. See
“Rear Window Defogger” in the Index.

CAUTION:
A convex mirror can make things (like other
vehicles) look farther away than they really are.
If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you
could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your
inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before
changing lanes.

Automatic Dimming Outside Rearview
Mirror (Option)
If you have this feature, the driver’s side outside mirror
will adjust for the glare of headlamps behind you. This
feature is controlled by the on and off settings on the
automatic electrochromic day/night rearview mirror. See
“Automatic Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview
Mirror” earlier in this section.

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Storage Compartments
Glove Box
Use the door key to lock and unlock the glove box. To
open, pull the latch on the front of the glove box door.

1. Push the extended tab (above the GARAGE button)
or insert a screwdriver between the tab and outer
edge of the cover. The garage door opener cover will
flip down.

Garage Door Opener Compartment

The garage door opener storage area is located in the
headliner near the reading lamps. The following chart
and instructions will help you install your garage door
opener in the overhead storage area.

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2. Remove the square height adapters from the cover.
Refer to the chart to determine the number and
location of the height adapters for your garage door
opener. If your unit does not appear on the chart, you
will have to try different adapter number and
location combinations.

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Your Garage Door Transmitter

Vehicle Console Door

Name

Model

Button

MULTIELMAC

3033

—

Name

4
MULTIELMAC
MULTIELMAC
MULTIELMAC
MULTIELMAC

1048
1087
3060
1098

1
1
1
1
2

OVERHEAD
DOOR
OO
OVERHEAD
OO
DOOR
OVERHEAD
DOOR
OO

1-BTN 223

PULSAR

4
5
6
5
7
1 OR 10

2-BTN 265

1
2

3-BTN 242

1
2

4-BTN 232

1
2

921

10
1
10
10
1
10
10

931

Your Garage Door Transmitter

Vehicle Console Door

Model

Button

Position For
Adapter(s)

CHAMBERLAIN

G-3684

CRUSADER

1-BUTTON

—

GENIE

AT85P

GENIE

AT85

GENIE

AT90

GENIE

MAT85

GENIE

MAT90

GENIE

AT285P

3
GENIE

3
OVERHEAD
DOOR
OO

—

Number Of
Adapter(s)

PULSAR

Position For
Adapter(s)

AT95

3
3
3
3
3

LIFTMASTER

G3446

LIFTMASTER

G3456

LINEAR

DT2A

3
3

Number Of
Adapter(s)

LINEAR

D22A

LINEAR

EK-11/H

LINEAR

ET-2

LINEAR

D22B

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Your Garage Door Transmitter

Vehicle Console Door

Your Garage Door Transmitter

Name

Model

Button

LINEAR

DT4

PULSAR

833B

LINEAR

D4B

Number Of
Adapter(s)

Name

Model

PULSAR

832

Vehicle Console Door

Position For
Adapter(s)

PULSAR
PULSAR

833
832C

Button

Position For
Adapter(s)

Number Of
Adapter(s)

MICOM

ESP-T-9R

PULSAR

PDX-9921

MICOM

ESP-T-9

SEARS

9B53738

MULTIELMAC

3010

SEARS

9B53708

MULTIELMAC

3089

SHIMA

RT-18

MULTIELMAC

3070

STANLEY

1047

MULTIELMAC

3032

STANLEY

1050

STANLEY

1076

MULTIELMAC

1054

MULTIELMAC

3034

—

STANLEY

2-54

1079

1075

331-1052

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3. Place the height adapters on the proper peg using the
suggested combinations or by lining up the height
adapters and the transmitter button on your garage
door opener.

4. Use the VelcroR found in the storage area and attach
the garage door opener securely inside the console.
Line up the transmitter button with the
height adapters.

Front Storage Armrest

The front storage armrest has space for compact disc
and cassette storage, and a removable coinholder. To
raise the armrest cover, press the latch in front of the
armrest cover and lift the front edge.

5. Close the cover and test the GARAGE button.
If your garage door opener doesn’t work after it is
installed, try another combination.

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Center Console Cupholder

Compact Disc Storage

The center console has a dual cupholder in front of the
shift lever. To use the cupholder, push forward on the
covered area and it will open. Press the cover and it
will close.

The area between the ashtray and cupholder is additional
storage space for your compact discs. Push on the raised
portion of the slot, and your compact disc will extend
from the storage space. Push the dropped door back in to
store your compact disc.

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Convenience Net

Front Ashtray

Your vehicle has a convenience net. You’ll see it just
inside the back wall of the trunk.

The front ashtray is behind a panel above the compact
disc storage area. Press on the panel door to reveal the
ashtray and cigarette lighter.

Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net. It can
help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or
quick starts and stops. For heavier loads, store them in
the trunk as far forward as you can.

The front center ashtray may be lifted out for cleaning.
Press the tabs on each side of the ashtray and pull up to
remove. It snaps back into place.

There are six retainers to secure the convenience net,
allowing two different placements for the net. You can
unhook the net so that it will lie flat when you’re not
using it. When reinstalling the net, make sure the label
points toward the upper retainer.

Rear Ashtray

Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter

Cigarette Lighter

NOTICE:
Don’t put papers or other flammable things into
your ashtrays. Hot cigarettes or other smoking
materials could ignite them, causing a
damaging fire.

To remove the rear ashtray for cleaning, open the lid and
ease the ashtray upward until the edge can be grasped to
pull the ashtray up and out.

To use the cigarette lighter, push it all the way in and let
it go. When it is hot, it will pop back by itself.

NOTICE:
If you hold a cigarette lighter in with your hand
while it is heating, it won’t be able to back away
from the heating element when it’s ready. This
can make it overheat, damaging the lighter and
the heating element.

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Sun Visors
To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You
can also remove them from the center mount and swing
them to the side, while the auxiliary visor remains to
block out glare from the front.

Illuminated Visor Vanity Mirror
This mirror is on the larger of the passenger’s sun visors.
It may also be on the larger of the driver’s sun visors.
When you open it, the lamps turn on. The brightness
of the lamps can be adjusted by sliding the switch up
or down.

Accessory Power Outlet
An auxiliary power receptacle is located on the lower
right side of the console. When the ignition is on, you
can plug in accessories requiring electrical power.
If your vehicle does not have a console, the auxiliary
power receptacle is opposite the cigarette lighter in the
ashtray area.

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OnStarR System (Option)
Your vehicle may be equipped with the OnStar
communications service. The following services are
available 24 hours a day from an OnStar representative:

D
D
D
D

Roadside Service with Location
Emergency Services Button
Remote Door Unlock
Theft Detection/Notification and Stolen-Vehicle
Tracking

D Automatic Notification of Air Bag Deployment
D Concierge/Customer Conveniences Services
NOTE: Installation of aftermarket equipment is
possible, however, the features described above will not
be compatible with any portable phone other than the
OnStar cellular phone available from your dealer.
For more information about the OnStar System, contact
your dealer.

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Assist Handles
An assist handle above each door can be used to help
you get in or out of your vehicle.

Garment Hooks
Rear garment hooks are available for your convenience.
Garment hooks are not designed to support clothing
bars. Use assist handles for this if possible.

Astroroof (Option)
If your vehicle has the
astroroof option, the switch
is on the roof between the
sun visors. It will open the
astroroof when the ignition
is on, or when retained
accessory power is active.

Rear License Plate Holder
To use it, open the trunk lid and slide your license plate
into the slot. Always close the trunk to prevent theft of
the plate.

To fully open the glass panel and sunshade, press the
switch rearward and release. To stop the panel in a
partially open position, press the switch again at the
desired point. To continue to open fully, press the switch
rearward again and release. The sunshade can be
opened manually.
To close the glass panel, press and hold the switch
forward. The sunshade must be closed manually.
Once the astroroof is closed, it can be opened to a vent
position. Press the switch forward to vent. To close,
press the switch rearward.

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Universal Transmitter (Option)

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of
the device.
Changes and modifications to this system by other than
an authorized service facility could void authorization to
use this equipment.

This transmitter allows you to consolidate the functions
of up to three individual hand-held transmitters. It will
operate garage doors and gates, or other devices
controlled by radio frequency such as home/office
lighting systems.

Programming the Universal Transmitter

The transmitter will learn and transmit the frequencies
of most current transmitters and is powered by your
vehicle’s battery and charging system.

Be sure that people and objects are clear of the garage
door you are programming.

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Do not use the Universal Transmitter with any garage
door opener that does not have the “stop and reverse”
safety feature. This includes any garage door opener
model manufactured before April 1, 1982.

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Your vehicle’s engine should be turned off while
programming the transmitter. Follow these steps to
program up to three channels:
1. If you have previously programmed a transmitter
channel, proceed to Step 2. Otherwise, hold down
the two outside buttons on the Universal Transmitter
until the indicator light begins to flash rapidly (after
20 seconds). Then release the buttons. This
procedure initializes the memory and erases any
previous settings for all three channels.
2. Decide which one of the three channels you want to
program. Hold the end of the hand-held transmitter
about 2 to 5 inches (5 to 13 cm) away from the
surface of the Universal Transmitter so that you can
still see the indicator light.
3. Using both hands, press the hand-held transmitter
button and the desired button on the Universal
Transmitter. Continue to press both buttons
through Step 4.

If you have trouble programming the Universal
Transmitter, make sure that you have followed the
directions exactly as described. The Universal
Transmitter may not work with older garage door
openers that do not meet current Federal Consumer
Safety Standards. If you cannot program the transmitter
after repeated attempts, refer to “Rolling Codes
Programming” later in this section or contact the
Universal Transmitter manufacturer at 1-800-355-3515.
Be sure to keep the original hand-held transmitter
in case you need to erase and reprogram the
Universal Transmitter.
Note to Canadian Owners: During programming, the
hand-held transmitter may automatically stop
transmitting after one or two seconds. In this case, you
should press and re-press the button on the hand-held
transmitter every two seconds without ever releasing the
button on the Universal Transmitter. Release both
buttons when the indicator light on the Universal
Transmitter begins to flash rapidly.

4. Hold down both buttons until you see the indicator
light on the Universal Transmitter flash slowly and
then rapidly. The rapid flashing indicates that the
Universal Transmitter has been programmed.
Release both buttons once the indicator light starts to
flash rapidly.

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Operating the Universal Transmitter
Press and release the appropriate button on the Universal
Transmitter. The indicator light comes on while the
signal is being transmitted.
If the hand-held transmitter appears to program the
Universal Transmitter but does not open your garage
door, and if the garage door opener was manufactured
after 1996, the garage door opener may have a “rolling
code” system. A rolling code system changes the code
of the garage door opener every time you open or close
the garage door.
To determine if you have this system, press the button
on the Universal Transmitter that you have programmed
already. If the indicator light on the Universal
Transmitter flashes rapidly for two seconds and then
turns solid, the garage door opener has a rolling code
system. In a rolling code system, the garage door motor
head unit must be trained to the Universal Transmitter.

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“Rolling Code” Programming (If Equipped)
If you have not previously programmed the hand-held
transmitter to the Universal Transmitter, see
“Programming the Universal Transmitter” listed
previously. If you have completed this programming
already, you now need to train the garage door opener
motor head unit to recognize the Universal Transmitter.
Refer to your garage door opener owner’s manual for
the proper transmitter training procedure for your garage
door opener brand.
1. Find the training button on the garage door opener
motor head unit. The exact location and color of the
button may vary by garage door opener brand. If you
have difficulty finding the training button, refer to
your garage door opener owner’s manual.
2. Press the training button on the garage door opener
motor head unit.
Note: Following this step, you have 30 seconds to
start Step 3.

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3. Return to the Universal Transmitter in your vehicle and
firmly press and release the Universal Transmitter
button you have already programmed for two to three
seconds. Press and release the button again (you may
need to do this step up to three times) to make sure
that the Universal Transmitter has been trained to the
garage door opener motor head unit. Check that the
training was successful.
The garage door opener should now recognize the
Universal Transmitter. You may either use the Universal
Transmitter or the hand-held transmitter to open the
garage door.

Erasing Channels
To erase all three programmed channels, hold down the
two outside buttons until the indicator light begins to
flash (after 20 seconds). Release both buttons.

Accessories
Accessories for the Universal Transmitter are available
from the manufacturer of the unit. If you would like
additional information, please call 1-800-355-3515.

If after following these instructions, you still have
problems training the garage door opener, contact the
Universal Transmitter manufacturer at 1-800-355-3515.

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The Instrument Panel - Your Information System

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The main components of your instrument panel are:
A. Warning Lights

L. Steering Wheel Touch Controls for Audio System

B. Tachometer

M. Tilt Steering Wheel Lever

C. Fuel Gage

N. Horn

D. Engine Temperature Gage
E. Speedometer

O. Steering Wheel Touch Controls for Audio/Climate
Control System

F. Warning Lights

P. Traction Control/Trip Reset Button

G. Climate Controls

Q. Ashtray and Cigarette Lighter

H. Audio System

R. Dual Cupholder

I. Headlamp/Instrument Panel Intensity
Control/Twilight Sentinel

S. Compact Disc Storage Compartment

J. Hood Release

U. Air Outlets

K. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

V. Glove Box

T. Gearshift Lever

2-65

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Instrument Panel Cluster

Your vehicle is equipped with this instrument panel cluster. Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know
at a glance how your vehicle is running. It includes indicator warning lights and gages that are explained on the
following pages. You’ll know how fast you’re going, how much fuel you’re using, and many other things you’ll need
to know to drive safely and economically.

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Speedometer and Odometer

Tachometer

Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles
per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your
odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven,
in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers
(used in Canada).

The tachometer tells you
how fast the engine is
running. It displays engine
speed in revolutions per
minute (rpm).

Trip Odometer
A trip odometer can tell you how many miles you have
driven since you last reset it back to zero.
To reset the trip
odometer, push the
TRIP RESET button.

NOTICE:
Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in
the red area, or engine damage may occur.

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Warning Lights, Gages
and Indicators
This part describes the warning lights and gages that
may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you
locate them.
Warning lights and gages can signal that something is
wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an
expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to
your warning lights and gages could also save you or
others from injury.
Warning lights come on when there may be or is a
problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you
will see in the details on the next few pages, some
warning lights come on briefly when you start the
engine just to let you know they’re working. If you are
familiar with this section, you should not be alarmed
when this happens.
Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem
with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and
warning lights work together to let you know when
there’s a problem with your vehicle.

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When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on
when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows
there may be a problem, check the section that tells you
what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice.
Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even
dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights
and gages. They’re a big help.

Safety Belt Reminder Light
When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will
come on for about eight seconds to remind people to
fasten their safety belts.
The safety belt light will
also come on and stay on
for about 70 seconds. If the
driver’s belt is already
buckled, neither the chime
nor the light will come on.

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Air Bag Readiness Light
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument
panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the
air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light
tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system
check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules,
the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module.
For more information on the air bag system, see “Air
Bag” in the Index.
This light will come on
when you start your engine,
and it will flash for a few
seconds. Then the light
should go out. This means
the system is ready.

The air bag readiness light should flash for a few
seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the
light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be
ready to warn you if there is a problem.

Battery Light
When you turn the key to
RUN, this light will come
on briefly, to show that your
generator and battery
charging systems
are working.
If the light stays on, your vehicle needs service and you
should take your vehicle to the dealer at once. To save
your battery until you get there, turn off all accessories,
and set your climate control system to OFF.

If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the
engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag
system may not work properly. Have your vehicle
serviced right away.

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Brake System Warning Light
Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into
two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can
still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you
need both parts working well.
If the warning light comes on, there is a brake problem.
Have your brake system inspected right away.
This light should come on
when you turn the key to
START. If it doesn’t come
on then, have it fixed so it
will be ready to warn you if
there’s a problem.
If the light and chime come on while you are driving,
pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that
the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer
to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still
on, have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Towing
Your Vehicle” in the Index.)

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CAUTION:
Your brake system may not be working properly
if the brake system warning light is on. Driving
with the brake system warning light on can lead
to an accident. If the light is still on after you’ve
pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have
the vehicle towed for service.
When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light
will also come on when you set your parking brake. The
light will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release
fully. If you try to drive off with the parking brake set, a
chime will also come on until you release the parking
brake. If the light and chime stay on after your parking
brake is fully released, it means you have a
brake problem.

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Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
With the anti-lock brake
system, the light(s) will
come on when you start
your engine and may stay
on for several seconds.
That’s normal.
If the light stays on, turn the ignition to OFF. Or, if the
light comes on when you’re driving, stop as soon as
possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine
again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or
comes on again while you’re driving, your vehicle needs
service. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t
on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock
brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also
on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there’s a
problem with your regular brakes. See “Brake System
Warning Light” earlier in this section.
The anti-lock brake system warning light should come
on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the
light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be
ready to warn you if there is a problem.

Traction Control System Warning Light
This warning light should
come on briefly as you start
the engine.

If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed
so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem. If it
stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be
a problem with your traction control system and your
vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on,
the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving
accordingly.
The traction control system warning light may come on
for the following reasons:

D If you turn the system off by pressing the TRAC

CONT button located on the instrument panel, the
warning light will come on and stay on. To turn the
system back on, press the button again. The warning
light should go off. (See “Traction Control System”
in the Index for more information.)

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D If there’s a brake system problem that is specifically

related to traction control, the traction control system
will turn off and the warning light will come on. If
your brakes begin to overheat, the traction control
system will turn off and the warning light will come
on until your brakes cool down.

D If the traction control system is affected by an
engine-related problem, the system will turn off and

Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light
This light tells you that your
engine coolant has
overheated or your radiator
cooling fan is not working.

the warning light will come on.
If the traction control system warning light comes on
and stays on for an extended period of time when the
system is turned on, your vehicle needs service.
If you have been operating your vehicle under normal
driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop
your vehicle and turn the engine off as soon as possible.
The “Problems on the Road” section in this manual
explains what to do. See “Engine Overheating” in
the Index.

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Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
Your vehicle has a gage that
shows the engine coolant
temperature. If the gage
pointer moves into the red
area, your engine is too hot!

Low Coolant Warning Light
When this light comes on,
the cooling system is low
on coolant.

As a bulb check, it will come on for two to four seconds
and then go off when the ignition is in RUN. If the light
doesn’t come on, have the vehicle serviced.
This reading means the same thing as the warning light.
It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you
have been operating your vehicle under normal driving
conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your
vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible.
The “Problems on the Road” section in this manual
explains what to do. See “Engine Overheating” in
the Index.

If the coolant level is low, the light will come back on
and a warning chime will sound. If this happens, see
“Engine Coolant” in the Index for the proper cooling
system fill procedure.
After the coolant level is returned to its proper level, the
LOW COOLANT light will go off after 20 seconds or
remain off during the next ignition cycle.

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp
(Service Engine Soon Light)
Your vehicle is equipped
with a computer which
monitors operation of the
fuel, ignition and emission
control systems.

This system is called OBD II (On-Board
Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to
assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life
of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner
environment. The SERVICE ENGINE SOON light
comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service
is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the
system before any problem is apparent. This may
prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This
system is also designed to assist your service technician
in correctly diagnosing any malfunction.

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NOTICE:
If you keep driving your vehicle with this light
on, after a while, your emission controls may not
work as well, your fuel economy may not be as
good and your engine may not run as smoothly.
This could lead to costly repairs that may not be
covered by your warranty.

NOTICE:
Modifications made to the engine, transaxle,
exhaust or fuel system of your vehicle or the
replacement of the original tires with other than
those of the same Tire Performance Criteria
(TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission controls
and may cause the SERVICE ENGINE SOON
light to come on. Modifications to these systems
could lead to costly repairs not covered by your
warranty. This may also result in a failure to pass
a required Emission Inspection/Maintenance test.

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This light should come on, as a check to show you it is
working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not
running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.
This light will also come on during a malfunction in one
of two ways:

D Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been

detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and
may damage the emission control system on your
vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis
and service may be required.

D Light On Steady -- An emission control system
malfunction has been detected on your vehicle.
Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and
service may be required.

If the Light Is Flashing
The following may prevent more serious damage to
your vehicle:

D
D
D
D

Reducing vehicle speed.
Avoiding hard accelerations.
Avoiding steep uphill grades.
If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of
cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If
the Light Is On Steady” following.
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so,
stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle.
Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the
engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light
Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing,
follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your
dealer or qualified service center for service.

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If the Light Is On Steady

Have you recently changed brands of fuel?

You may be able to correct the emission system
malfunction by considering the following:

If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see
“Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause your
engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may
notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you
put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on
acceleration or stumbling on acceleration. (These
conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.)
This will be detected by the system and cause the light
to turn on.

Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle?
If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install
the cap. See “Filling Your Tank” in the Index. The
diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been
left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel
cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A
few driving trips with the cap properly installed should
turn the light off.
Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water?
If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition
will usually be corrected when the electrical system
dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.
Are you low on fuel?
As your engine starts to run out of fuel, your engine may
not run as efficiently as designed since small amounts of
air are sucked into the fuel line causing a misfire. The
system can detect this. Adding fuel should correct this
condition. Make sure to install the fuel cap properly. See
“Filling Your Tank” in the Index. It will take a few
driving trips to turn the light off.

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If you experience one or more of these conditions,
change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least one
full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.
If none of the above steps have made the light turn off,
have your dealer or qualified service center check the
vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and
diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical
problems that may have developed.

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Oil Pressure Light
This light tells you if there
could be a problem with
your engine oil pressure.

NOTICE:
Damage to your engine from neglected oil
problems can be costly and is not covered by
your warranty.

Check Oil Level Light
When this light comes on and stays on, it means oil isn’t
going through your engine properly. You could be low
on oil, or you might have some other oil problem.

CAUTION:
Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If
you do, your engine can become so hot that it
catches fire. You or others could be burned.
Check your oil as soon as possible and have your
vehicle serviced.

The CHECK OIL LEVEL
light is lit for two to four
seconds as a bulb check
each time the ignition key is
turned to RUN.

If the light doesn’t come on, have your vehicle serviced.
If the engine oil is more than 1 qt. (0.95 L) low, this
light will turn on for about one minute and then will
remain off until the next time you start the vehicle only
if the vehicle has been shut off for at least eight minutes.
If the CHECK OIL LEVEL light comes back on, the
engine oil should be checked at the dipstick then
brought up to the proper level if necessary. See “Engine
Oil” in the Index.

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Brake To Shift Light

Door Ajar Light
This light will come on to
remind you that you must
press the brake pedal to
shift out of PARK (P).

Cruise Light

Fuel Gage
The CRUISE light comes
on when you set your cruise
control. See “Cruise
Control” in the Index.

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When the ignition is on, this
light will stay on until both
doors are closed and
completely latched.

The fuel gage shows
about how much fuel is
in your tank.

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It works only when the ignition is on. When the
indicator nears Empty (E) you still have a little fuel left.
There is a reserve of about 1.5 gallons (5.6 L) in the fuel
tank. You need to get more fuel right away.
Here are some concerns some owners have had about
the fuel gage. All these situations are normal and do not
indicate anything wrong with the fuel gage.

D At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before the

Low Fuel Light
A light near the Empty (E)
mark on the fuel gage
comes on when your vehicle
is low on fuel. You have
less than 3 gallons (11.7 L)
remaining in your fuel tank.

gage reads Full (F).

D It takes more (or less) gas to fill up than the gage

indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated
half full, but it took more (or less) than half of the
tank’s capacity to fill it.

D The gage moves a little when you turn a corner,
speed up or stop your vehicle.

D When you turn the engine off, the gage doesn’t go all
the way back to Empty (E).

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✍

2-80

NOTES

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Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be
sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle.
3-2
3-2
3-5
3-5
3-6
3-6
3-7
3-7
3-9
3-9
3-9

Comfort Controls
Dual Automatic ComforTemp Climate Control
Air Conditioning
Heating
Defogging and Defrosting
Rear Window Defogger
Passenger Zone Comfort Control
Ventilation System
Steering Wheel Controls for Climate
Control (Option)
Audio Systems
Setting the Clock

3-10
3-15
3-17
3-18
3-18
3-19
3-20
3-20
3-20

AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape
and Compact Disc Player with Automatic
Tone Control
Theft-Deterrent Feature
Audio Steering Wheel Controls (Option)
Understanding Radio Reception
Tips About Your Audio System
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
Care of Your Compact Discs
Care of Your Compact Disc Player
Power Antenna Mast Care

3-1

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Comfort Controls
This section describes how to operate your climate
control system. Your climate control system uses
ozone-friendly R-134a refrigerant.

Dual Automatic ComforTemp
Climate Control
Your vehicle has the Dual Automatic ComforTemp
Climate Control system. The following information tells
you how it works.
You will hear a beep each time a button is pushed and a
small light on the button will indicate which buttons are
active. The lights are on all buttons except TEMP, FAN
and AIR FLOW. The display will show fan speed,
comfort level setting and airflow direction for a few
seconds whenever AUTO is selected, and then it will
display the outside temperature. The outside temperature
reading is most accurate when the vehicle is moving.
During stops, the display shows the previous
temperature for best accuracy and system control.

3-2

If the display is flashing after the climate control system
is started, there is a problem with the system and you
should see your dealer for service.
Sun and temperature sensors automatically adjust the air
temperature, the airflow direction and the fan speed to
maintain your comfort setting. The system may supply
cooler air to the side toward the sun. Be careful not to
put anything over the sensors on top of the dash.

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Temperature Button

Automatic Operation

To adjust the comfort level you want maintained inside
the vehicle, push the TEMP button. If you want a
warmer comfort level, push the red arrow. If you want a
cooler comfort level, push the blue arrow. Your comfort
setting is shown in the display.

Press the AUTO button when you want the system to
automatically adjust the interior temperature to your
preference. When the system is set for automatic
operation, air will come from the floor, middle or
windshield outlets depending on the temperature inside
the vehicle, the outside temperature and sun load. Fan
speed will vary as the system gets to and maintains the
comfort setting you have selected through the use of the
TEMP button.

Fan Button
The speed of the blower fan is controlled automatically
if you have the system set for AUTO. Pressing the
FAN button will display and hold the current blower
fan setting.
If you want the blower fan to run at a lower speed, push
the bottom of the FAN button. The fan speed will
decrease with every push of the button until the lowest
speed is reached. If you want to increase the fan speed,
push the top of the FAN button. Notice the fan
indicators in the display.
Mode Controls
Press the AIR FLOW button to deliver air through the
floor, middle or windshield outlets. The system will stay
in the selected mode until the AUTO button is pushed.
Press the up arrow on the AIR FLOW button to cycle
through the available modes.

To find your comfort setting, start with the system
in AUTO mode and the TEMP button adjusted to a
display of 75_F (24_C), give the vehicle about
20 minutes to stabilize, then readjust your comfort
setting if necessary. The display will show the comfort
setting for a few seconds and then it will display the
outside temperature. If you want to see your current
automatic fan speed, airflow direction and comfort
setting, press the AUTO button.
In cold weather, the system will delay turning on the
fan, to avoid blowing cold air. The length of the delay
depends on the engine coolant temperature and the
outside temperature. Pushing the FAN, AIR FLOW or
FRONT buttons will override this delay, turn off the
AUTO setting and change the fan speed.

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Manual Operation
You may also manually adjust the air delivery or fan speed.
AIR FLOW: This button is used to change the direction
of the airflow. The airflow choices available are FLOOR,
FLOOR-MID, MID and WINDSHIELD-FLOOR.
If the system is set for AUTO, pressing the AIR FLOW
button will display the current airflow direction and the
comfort setting. Press the AIR FLOW up or down
button again to change the direction of the airflow.
If the AIR FLOW up button is selected while in the
FRONT defrost mode, the system will direct the air
toward the WINDSHIELD. If the AIR FLOW down
button is selected while in the FRONT defrost mode, the
system will direct the air toward the FLOOR, and the
FRONT defrost mode will cancel. Notice the arrows in
the display.
OFF: If the passenger’s comfort control is turned on, it
can be turned off by pressing the OFF button once.
Pressing the OFF button a second time will turn off the
main system. Turning off the main system causes the fan
to turn off and the airflow to be directed to the FLOOR.
The system will still try to keep the interior of the
vehicle at the previously chosen comfort setting. The
outside temperature will show on the display when the
system is set to OFF.

3-4

The ventilation system always allows fresh air to flow
through the interior when the vehicle is moving even
with the system in the OFF mode.
VENT: The VENT button allows outside air to flow
through your vehicle without the air conditioning
compressor working. Selecting VENT and the AUTO
button at the same time allows the system to control
automatically without the use of the air conditioning
compressor or the use of the RECIRC mode. To turn off
the VENT selection, push the VENT button again.
RECIRC: When RECIRC is selected, the system will
limit the amount of outside air entering your vehicle.
This is helpful when you are trying to cool the interior
of the vehicle quickly or limit the amount of outside air
entering your vehicle for some other reason. RECIRC
and AUTO may be selected at the same time. The
system will remain in RECIRC until the ignition is
turned off, then the system will return to the previously
selected mode. RECIRC can be selected in all manual
airflow modes except FRONT defrost. RECIRC cannot
be selected with the VENT button.
Operating RECIRC in cold temperature or under high
humidity conditions may cause moisture to form on the
inside of the windshield. If this condition occurs,
deselect the RECIRC button.

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FRONT: This selection is used to defrost
the windshield by directing the airflow toward
the windshield.
If FRONT is selected while in the AUTO mode, the
fan speed and the air temperature from the front
defroster will vary. If a manual fan speed setting is
selected, the fan speed will remain at that selection until
another fan speed selection is made or the AUTO mode
is selected. To turn off FRONT, press the AUTO or
AIR FLOW button.
FRONT defrost will work better if any ice or snow is
cleared from the hood and the air inlet area between the
base of the windshield and the hood.

Air Conditioning
On very hot days, open the windows long enough to let
the hot air out. This reduces the time required to cool the
interior of the vehicle to a comfortable level. If the

system is in the AUTO mode on very hot days, the
system will automatically enter the RECIRC mode and
the temperature door will be positioned at the full cold
position for maximum cooling. If the system is not in
the AUTO mode, RECIRC should be selected to provide
maximum cooling. You can choose the extreme comfort
setting of 60_F (16_C), but the system will not cool any
faster by choosing the extreme comfort setting.

Heating
On cold days, if the AUTO mode is selected, the system
will automatically direct the air toward the floor and the
temperature door will be positioned at the full hot
position. You can choose the extreme comfort setting of
90_F (32_C) but the system will not warm up any faster
by selecting the extreme comfort setting. If the outside
temperature is cold, the fan will be delayed to avoid
blowing cold air. Pushing the FAN, AIR FLOW or
FRONT buttons will override this delay, turn off the
AUTO mode and change the fan speed.

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Defogging and Defrosting
Use the FRONT button to quickly remove fog, frost or
ice from the windshield in extremely humid or
cold conditions.
Select the FRONT button to defrost the windshield. By
choosing this button, the airflow will be directed at the
windshield. Adjust your comfort level by pressing the
TEMP up or down arrow. The fan speed will be
controlled by the system. You can change the fan speed
by pressing the top of the FAN button to increase speed,
and the bottom of the button to decrease speed.

Rear Window Defogger
The lines you see on
the rear window warm
the glass. Press the button
to start warming your
window. An indicator light
in the button will glow
while the rear window
defogger is operating.

3-6

At speeds above 30 mph (48 km/h), the rear defogger
will stay on until you press the REAR defogger button
again. At speeds below 30 mph (48 km/h), the rear
window defogger will turn off automatically after about
10 minutes of use. If you press it again, the defogger
will operate for about five minutes only. You can also
turn the defogger off by turning off the ignition.

NOTICE:
Scraping the inside of your rear window could
cut and damage the heater. Your warranty would
not cover this damage. Don’t put decals there
because you might have to scrape them off.

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Passenger Zone Comfort Control

This system can be activated by turning the COMFORT
CONTROL knob on the passenger’s door.
Adjust the temperature by turning the COMFORT
CONTROL knob toward COOLER or WARMER. This
control can be set up to 5_F or 3_C cooler or warmer
than the primary setting. Notice the lighted display
above the control which indicates the difference from
the main temperature setting.
Push the OFF button on the main control panel once to
turn off this part of the system.

Ventilation System

The front seat passenger can control the air temperature
in the right front passenger seating area.

When the vehicle is moving, fresh air flows through the
air outlets. When the vehicle is not moving, you can get
fresh air by selecting any airflow choice (except the rear
window defogger) and any fan speed.

3-7

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Adjust the direction of airflow by moving the louvered
air outlets.

You can also adjust the direction of the airflow to the
rear seating area.
Ventilation Tips

D Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or
any other obstruction such as leaves. The heater and
defroster will work better, reducing the chance of
fogging your windows.

D Keep the air path under the front seats clear of
objects. This helps air to circulate throughout
your vehicle.

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D When the engine idles for a long time, the exterior

temperature sensor retains the temperature setting
that was present when the vehicle was last moving.
The system will try to maintain the set temperature
inside your vehicle.

Steering Wheel Controls for Climate
Control (Option)
If your vehicle has this
feature, you can control the
temperature comfort setting
by using the control button
on your steering wheel.

Audio Systems
Your Delco Electronics audio system has been designed
to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure.
You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint
yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco
Electronics system can do and how to operate all its
controls, to be sure you’re getting the most out of the
advanced engineering that went into it.

Setting the Clock
Press and hold HRS until the correct hour appears. Press
and hold MIN until the correct minute appears.
You may set the clock with the ignition off if you
press RECALL first and follow the same procedure
described above.

TEMP: Press either arrow once and the current comfort
setting will be displayed. Press the up arrow again to
choose a warmer comfort setting and press the down
arrow again to choose a cooler comfort setting.

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AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape
and Compact Disc Player with Automatic
Tone Control

RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station
being played or to display the clock. To change what is
normally shown on the display (station or time), press
the RECALL button until you see the display you want,
then hold the RECALL button until the display flashes.
If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock
will show for a few seconds.
Finding a Station
AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1
and FM2. The display shows your selection.
TUNE: Press the up or down arrow to choose
radio stations.
SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next
higher or lower station and stay there. The sound will
mute while seeking.

Playing the Radio
VOLUME: Press this knob to turn the system on and
off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn
it counterclockwise to decrease volume.

3-10

SCAN: Press one of the SEEK arrows for two seconds
and SCAN will appear on the display. Use SCAN to
listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to
a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next
station. Press one of the SEEK arrows again to stop
scanning. The sound will mute while scanning.

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PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let
you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to
18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2). Just:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press AM-FM to select the band.
3. Tune in the desired station.
4. Press TONE to select the setting you prefer.
5. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons. The
sound will mute. When it returns, release the button.
Whenever you press that numbered button, the
station you set will return and the tone you selected
will be automatically selected for that button.
6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
P SCAN: Press this button to listen to each of your
preset stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to
the first preset station, stop for a few seconds, then go
on to the next preset station. Press P SCAN again to stop
scanning. If a preset station has weak reception, the
radio will not stop at the preset station.
AUTO SET: Press this button and the system will seek
and set the 12 strongest FM or the 6 strongest AM
stations on your preset buttons. AUTO SET will flash
while seeking and will remain on until this function is
complete. To return to the stations you manually set,
press AUTO SET again.

Setting the Tone
BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the
knob to increase or decrease bass.
TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the
knob to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak
or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when
you’re not using them.
TONE: This feature allows you to choose preset bass
and treble equalization settings designed for classical,
pop, rock, jazz, talk and country/western stations.
CLASS will appear on the display when you first press
TONE. Each time you press it, another setting will
appear on the display. Press it again after C & W
appears and MANUAL will appear. Tone control will
return to the BASS and TREB knobs. Also, if you use
the BASS and TREB knobs, control will return to them
and MANUAL will appear.

3-11

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Adjusting the Speakers
BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn
the knob to move the sound to the left or right
speakers. The middle position balances the sound
between the speakers.
FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn
the knob to move the sound to the front or rear
speakers. The middle position balances the sound
between the speakers.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when
you’re not using them.
Playing a Cassette Tape
The longer side with the tape visible should face to the
right. If the ignition and the radio are on, the tape can be
inserted and will begin playing. If you hear nothing or
hear a garbled sound, the tape may not be in squarely.
Press EJECT to remove the tape and start over.
While the tape is playing, use the VOLUME, FADE,
BAL, BASS and TREB controls just as you do for the
radio. Other controls may have different functions when
a tape is inserted. The display will show an arrow to
show which side of the tape is playing.

3-12

If you want to insert a tape when the ignition or radio is
off, first press EJECT or RECALL.
Your tape bias is set automatically.
If E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape
won’t play because of an error.

D E10: The tape is tight and the player can’t turn the

tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the
open end down and try to turn the right hub
counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over
and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape
may be damaged and should not be used in the
player. Try a new tape to make sure your player is
working properly.

D E11: The tape is broken. Try a new tape.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be
corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio
displays an error number, write it down and provide it to
your dealer when reporting the problem.
PREV (1): Press this button to search for the previous
selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three
seconds of silence between each selection for PREV to
work. The sound will mute while seeking.

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NEXT (2): Press this button to search for the next
selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three
seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT to
work. The sound will mute while seeking.
The SEEK down and up arrows will also find the
previous and next selections on the tape.

AA (3): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly.

Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will
play while the tape reverses.

"" (4): Press this button to advance quickly to
another part of the tape. Press the button again to
return to playing speed. The radio will play while the
tape advances.

SOURCE: Press this button to change to the tape or
disc function when the radio is on. If both a tape and a
disc are installed, the system will first go to tape play;
TAPE SIDE and an arrow will appear on the display. If
SOURCE is pressed again, the system will go to disc
play; CD PLAY will appear on the display.
EJECT: The system has two EJECT buttons. Press the
button near the CD slot to remove a disc. Press the
button near the tape slot to remove a tape and the radio
will play.

RAND (6): Press this button to reduce background
noise. The double-D symbol will appear in the display.

CLN: If this message appears on the display, the
cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play
tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to
prevent damage to the tapes and player. See “Care of
Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean
the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to
reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to
show the indicator was reset.

Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license
from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby
and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

Your cassette tape player automatically reduces
background noise from tapes encoded with Dolby NR.
You may turn Dolby NR off by pressing the number
six preset.

SIDE (5): Press this button to change the side of the
tape that is playing.

3-13

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Playing a Compact Disc
Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The
player will pull it in. The disc should begin playing.
If you want to insert a CD while the ignition or the radio
is off, first press EJECT or RECALL.
If you’re driving on a very rough road or if it’s very hot,
the disc may not play and an error code may appear on
the display. When things get back to normal, the disc
should play. If the disc comes out, it could be that:

D E20: The disc is upside down.
D E20: It is dirty, scratched or wet.
D E20: There’s too much moisture in the air.
(Wait about an hour and try again.)

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be
corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio
displays an error number, write it down and provide it to
your dealer when reporting the problem.
PREV (1): Press this button to go to the start of the
current track, if more than eight seconds have played. If
you hold the button or press it more than once, the
player will continue moving back through the disc. The
sound will mute while seeking.

3-14

NEXT (2): Press this button to go to the next track. If
you hold the button or press it more than once, the
player will continue moving forward through the disc.
The sound will mute while seeking.
The SEEK down and up arrows will also find the
previous and next selections on the disc.

AA (3): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse
within a track. You will hear sound.

"" (4): Press and hold this button to quickly advance
within a track. You will hear sound.
RAND (6): Press this button to hear the tracks in
random, rather than sequential, order. Press RAND
again to turn off random play.
RECALL: Press this button to see which track is
playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how
long it has been playing. To change what is normally
shown on the display (track or elapsed time), press the
RECALL button until you see the display you want,
then hold the RECALL button until the display flashes.
AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc
is in the player.

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SOURCE: Press this button to change to the disc
function when the radio is on. When a disc is inserted,
the disc will play until you press AM-FM. Then the
disc will stop playing and the radio will play. Press
SOURCE again to play a disc again. CD PLAY will
show on the display.
EJECT: Press this button to remove the disc. The radio
will play.
If you turn off the ignition or radio with a disc in the
player, it will stay in the player. When you turn on the
ignition or system, the disc will start playing where it
stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
Also, as a protection feature, if a CD is ejected and left
in the player, it will be pulled back in the player with the
ignition on or off.

Theft-Deterrent Feature

THEFTLOCKR is designed to discourage theft of your
radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio
functions whenever battery power is removed.
If THEFTLOCK is active, the THEFTLOCK indicator
will flash when the ignition is off.

The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or
ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the
radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is
activated, your radio will not operate if stolen.
When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display
LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery
power is removed. If your battery loses power for any
reason, you must unlock the radio with the secret code
before it will operate.
Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature
The instructions which follow explain how to enter your
secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is
recommended that you read through all nine steps
before starting the procedure.
NOTE: If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse
between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to
time and you must start the procedure over at Step 4.
1. Write down any three or four-digit number from
000 to 1999 and keep it in a safe place separate from
the vehicle.
2. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN.
3. Turn the radio off.

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4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down
until --- shows on the display. Next you will use the
secret code number which you have written down.
5. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display.

3. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree
with your code.
4. Press HRS to make the first one or two digits agree
with your code.

7. Press HRS to make the first one or two digits agree
with your code.

5. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the
code matches the secret code you have written down.
The display will show SEC, indicating the radio is
now operable and secure.

8. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the
code matches the secret code you have written down.
The display will show REP to let you know that you
need to repeat Steps 5 through 7 to confirm your
secret code.

If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will appear
on the display. You will have to wait an hour with the
ignition on before you can try again. When you try again,
you will only have three more chances (eight tries per
chance) to enter the correct code before INOP appears.

9. Press AM-FM and this time the display will show
SEC to let you know that your radio is secure.

If you lose or forget your code, contact your dealership.

Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a
Power Loss

Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than
15 seconds between steps:

1. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN.

1. Turn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display.

3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down
until SEC shows on the display.

6. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree
with your code.

2. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display.

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Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature

2. Turn the radio off.

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4. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display.

Audio Steering Wheel Controls (Option)

5. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree
with your code.

If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain
radio and comfort control functions using the buttons on
your steering wheel.

6. Press HRS to make the first one or two digits agree
with your code.
7. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the
code matches the secret code you have written down.
The display will show ---, indicating that the radio is
no longer secured.

VOL: Press the up or down
arrow to increase or
decrease volume.

If the code entered is incorrect, SEC will appear on the
display. The radio will remain secured until the correct
code is entered.
When battery power is removed and later applied to a
secured radio, the radio won’t turn on and LOC will
appear on the display.
To unlock a secured radio see “Unlocking the
Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss” earlier in
this section.

TEMP: Press the up arrow to increase the set
temperature on your comfort control system or the down
arrow to decrease the temperature.

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SEEK: Press the SEEK
down arrow to go to a lower
frequency station and the
SEEK up arrow to go to a
higher frequency station.

Understanding Radio Reception
AM
The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM,
especially at night. The longer range, however, can
cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick
up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try
reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.
FM Stereo

If you press and hold the SEEK button for two seconds,
SCAN will appear on the display. It will go to a station,
stop for a few seconds and go on to the next station.
Press the SEEK button to stop scanning. SEEK also
functions as PREV and NEXT when playing a cassette
tape or compact disc.
SCAN/AM-FM: Press the SCAN button and SCAN
will appear on the display. SCAN works as the PSCAN
button on your radio. It will scan through each of the
preset radio stations. If a preset radio station has weak
reception, the radio will not stop at the preset station.
Press SCAN again to stop scanning. Press the AM-FM
button to choose the AM, FM1 or FM2 band.

3-18

FM stereo will give you the best sound, but FM signals
will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall
buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing
the sound to come and go.

Tips About Your Audio System
Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable
until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher
volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud
and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by
adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe
sound level before your hearing adapts to it.

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To help avoid hearing loss or damage:

D Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting.
D Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably
and clearly.

NOTICE:
Before you add any sound equipment to your
vehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobile
telephone or two-way radio -- be sure you can
add what you want. If you can, it’s very
important to do it properly. Added sound
equipment may interfere with the operation of
your vehicle’s engine, Delco Electronics radio or
other systems, and even damage them. Your
vehicle’s systems may interfere with the
operation of sound equipment that has been
added improperly.
So, before adding sound equipment, check with
your dealership and be sure to check Federal
rules covering mobile radio and telephone units.

Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause
reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged
mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their
cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and
extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate
properly or may cause failure of the tape player.
Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every
50 hours of use. Your radio may display CLN to indicate
that you have used your tape player for 50 hours without
resetting the tape clean timer. If this message appears on
the display, your cassette tape player needs to be
cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as
soon as possible to prevent damage to your tapes and
player. If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a
known good cassette to see if it is the tape or the tape
player at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement
in sound quality, clean the tape player.
The recommended cleaning method for your cassette
tape player is the use of a scrubbing action,
non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub
the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn.
The recommended cleaning cassette is available through
your (GM Part No. 12344789).

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When using a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning
cassette, it is normal for the cassette to eject because
your unit is equipped with a cut tape detection feature
and a cleaning cassette may appear as a broken tape. If
the cleaning cassette ejects, insert the cassette at least
three times to ensure thorough cleaning.
You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type
cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean
the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not
eject on its own. A non-scrubbing action cleaner may
not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner.
The use of a non-scrubbing action, dry-type cleaning
cassette is not recommended.
After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for
five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will
display --- to show the indicator was reset.
Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality
may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette
tape is in good condition before you have your tape
player serviced.

Care of Your Compact Discs
Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases
or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight
and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a
clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and
clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.
Be sure never to touch the signal surface when handling
discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer edges or the
edge of the hole and the outer edge.

Care of Your Compact Disc Player
The use of CD lens cleaner discs is not advised, due to
the risk of contaminating the lens of the CD optics with
lubricants internal to the CD mechanism.

Power Antenna Mast Care
Your power antenna will look its best and work
well if it’s cleaned from time to time. To clean the
antenna mast:
1. Turn on the ignition and radio to raise the antenna.
2. Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits or
equivalent solvent.

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3. Wipe the cloth over the mast sections, removing
any dirt.

NOTICE:

4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
5. Make the antenna go up and down by turning the
radio or ignition off and on.
6. Repeat if necessary.

NOTICE:
Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubrication
could damage it.

Before entering an automatic car wash, turn off
your radio to make the power antenna go down.
This will prevent the mast from possibly getting
damaged. If the antenna does not go down when
you turn the radio off, it may be damaged or
need to be cleaned. In either case, lower the
antenna by hand by carefully pressing the
antenna down.
If the mast portion of your antenna is damaged, you can
easily replace it. See your dealership for a replacement
kit and follow the instructions in the kit.

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✍

3-22

NOTES

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Section 4 Your Driving and the Road
Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also
included many other useful tips on driving.
4-2
4-3
4-6
4-6
4-10
4-12
4-13
4-14
4-15
4-17

Defensive Driving
Drunken Driving
Control of a Vehicle
Braking
Steering
Off-Road Recovery
Passing
Loss of Control
Driving at Night
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

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4-25
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4-30
4-32

City Driving
Freeway Driving
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Highway Hypnosis
Hill and Mountain Roads
Winter Driving
Recreational Vehicle Towing
Loading Your Vehicle
Towing a Trailer

4-1

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Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.”
On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means
“always expect the unexpected.”
Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be
careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might
do. Be ready for their mistakes.
Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of
accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough
following distance. It’s the best defensive driving
maneuver, in both city and rural driving. You never
know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake
or turn suddenly.

Defensive Driving
The best advice anyone can give about driving is:
Drive defensively.
Please start with a very important safety device in your
vehicle: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.)

4-2

Defensive driving requires that a driver concentrate on
the driving task. Anything that distracts from the
driving task -- such as concentrating on a cellular
telephone call, reading, or reaching for something on
the floor -- makes proper defensive driving more
difficult and can even cause a collision, with resulting
injury. Ask a passenger to help do things like this, or
pull off the road in a safe place to do them yourself.
These simple defensive driving techniques could save
your life.

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Drunken Driving
Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is
a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to
the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims
every year.
Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive
a vehicle:

D
D
D
D

Judgment
Muscular Coordination
Vision
Attentiveness.

Police records show that almost half of all motor
vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases,
these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking
and driving. In recent years, over 17,000 annual motor
vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use
of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured.
Many adults -- by some estimates, nearly half the adult
population -- choose never to drink alcohol, so they
never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, it’s
against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol.
There are good medical, psychological and
developmental reasons for these laws.

The obvious way to solve the leading highway safety
problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then
drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much”
if the driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many
might think. Although it depends on each person
and situation, here is some general information on
the problem.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone
who is drinking depends upon four things:

D The amount of alcohol consumed
D The drinker’s body weight
D The amount of food that is consumed before and
during drinking

D The length of time it has taken the drinker to
consume the alcohol.

According to the American Medical Association, a
180-lb. (82 kg) person who drinks three 12-ounce
(355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a
BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the
same BAC by drinking three 4-ounce (120 ml) glasses
of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces
(45 ml) of a liquor like whiskey, gin or vodka.

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woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a
man of her same body weight when each has the same
number of drinks.
The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC
of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, and
throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some
other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all
commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent.
The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to six
drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we’ve seen, it
depends on how much alcohol is in the drinks, and how
quickly the person drinks them.

It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if
the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces
or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s
BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who
consumes food just before or during drinking will have a
somewhat lower BAC level.
There is a gender difference, too. Women generally have
a lower relative percentage of body water than men.
Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a

4-4

But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of
0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of
many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05
percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All
drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent.
Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision
increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of 0.05
percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06
percent has doubled his or her chance of having a
collision. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance of
this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a
level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!

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The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol
in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold
showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the
right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to
take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street?
A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able
to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.
There’s something else about drinking and driving that
many people don’t know. Medical research shows that
alcohol in a person’s system can make crash injuries
worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord or
heart. This means that when anyone who has been
drinking -- driver or passenger -- is in a crash, that
person’s chance of being killed or permanently disabled
is higher than if the person had not been drinking.

CAUTION:
Drinking and then driving is very dangerous.
Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness and
judgment can be affected by even a small amount
of alcohol. You can have a serious -- or even
fatal -- collision if you drive after drinking.
Please don’t drink and drive or ride with a driver
who has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if
you’re with a group, designate a driver who will
not drink.

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Control of a Vehicle

Braking

You have three systems that make your vehicle go where
you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and
the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work
at the places where the tires meet the road.

Braking action involves perception time and
reaction time.
First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal.
That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your
foot and do it. That’s reaction time.
Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. But
that’s only an average. It might be less with one driver
and as long as two or three seconds or more with
another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination
and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs and
frustration. But even in 3/4 of a second, a vehicle
moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m).
That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so
keeping enough space between your vehicle and others
is important.
And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly
with the surface of the road (whether it’s pavement or
gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire
tread; the condition of your brakes; the weight of the
vehicle and the amount of brake force applied.

Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s
easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires
and road can provide. That means you can lose control
of your vehicle.

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Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive
in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy
braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This
is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool
between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much
faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace
with the traffic and allow realistic following distances,
you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That
means better braking and longer brake life.
If your engine ever stops while you’re driving, brake
normally but don’t pump your brakes. If you do, the
pedal may get harder to push down. If your engine
stops, you will still have some power brake assist. But
you will use it when you brake. Once the power assist is
used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal
will be harder to push.

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is an
advanced electronic braking system that will help
prevent a braking skid.
When you start your engine and begin to drive away,
your anti-lock brake system will check itself. You may
hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while this test
is going on, and you may even notice that your brake
pedal moves a little. This is normal.
If there’s a problem with the
anti-lock brake system, this
warning light will stay on.
See “Anti-Lock Brake
System Warning Light” in
the Index.

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The anti-lock system can change the brake
pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is
programmed to make the most of available tire and
road conditions.

Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet.
You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in
front of you.
You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS.
A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one
of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will
separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at
both rear wheels.

4-8

You can steer around the obstacle while braking hard.
As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on
wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.

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Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need
to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease
stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in
front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes
if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave
enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have
anti-lock brakes.
Using Anti-Lock
Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal
down firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may
hear a motor or clicking noise during a hard stop, but
this is normal.

If your vehicle is in cruise control when the traction
control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise
control will automatically disengage. When road
conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may
reengage the cruise control. (See “Cruise Control”
in the Index.)
This light should come
on briefly when you start
the engine. If it stays on
or comes on while you
are driving, there’s a
problem with your traction
control system.

Traction Control System
Your vehicle has a traction control system that limits
wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road
conditions. The system operates only if it senses that
one or both of the front wheels are spinning or
beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the
system works the front brakes and reduces engine
power to limit wheel spin.
You may feel or hear the system working, but this
is normal.

See “Traction Control System Warning Light” in the
Index. When this warning light is on, the system will not
limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.
The traction control system automatically comes on
whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin,
especially in slippery road conditions, you should
always leave the system on. But you can turn the
traction control system off if you ever need to. (You
should turn the system off if your vehicle ever gets stuck
in sand, mud, ice or snow. See “Rocking Your Vehicle”
in the Index.)

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To turn the system off,
press the TRAC CONT
button located on the
instrument panel.

Steering
Power Steering
If you lose power steering assist because the engine
stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but
it will take much more effort.

MagnasteerR

The traction control system warning light will come on
and stay on. If the system is limiting wheel spin when
you press the button, the warning light will come
on -- but the system won’t turn off right away. It
will wait until there’s no longer a current need to limit
wheel spin.
You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing
the button again. The traction control system warning
light should go off.

Braking in Emergencies
With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same
time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more
than even the very best braking.

4-10

Your vehicle is equipped with GM Magnasteer, a
steering system that continuously adjusts the effort you
feel when steering at all vehicle speeds. It provides ease
when parking yet a firm, solid feel at highway speeds.

Steering Tips
Driving on Curves
It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on
the news happen on curves. Here’s why:
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to
the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The
traction of the tires against the road surface makes it
possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn
the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep
the vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve ever
tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this.

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The traction you can get in a curve depends on the
condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at
which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’re
in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.
Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve.
Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control
systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do
their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the
sudden acceleration can demand too much of those
places. You can lose control. Refer to “Traction Control”
in the Index.
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the
accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it
to go, and slow down.
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should
adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are
based on good weather and road conditions. Under less
favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower.

Steering in Emergencies
There are times when steering can be more effective
than braking. For example, you come over a hill and
find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls
out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between
parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can
avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop
in time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room.
That’s the time for evasive action -- steering around
the problem.
Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like
these. First apply your brakes. (See “Braking in
Emergencies” earlier in this section.) It is better to
remove as much speed as you can from a possible
collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or
right depending on the space available.

If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a
curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front
wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the
curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to
accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then
accelerate gently into the straightaway.

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Off-Road Recovery
You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the
edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving.

An emergency like this requires close attention and a
quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at
the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can
turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing
either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and
just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have
avoided the object.
The fact that such emergency situations are always
possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving at
all times and wear safety belts properly.

4-12

If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the
pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the
accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so
that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement. You
can turn the steering wheel up to one-quarter turn until the
right front tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn your
steering wheel to go straight down the roadway.

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Passing
The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a
two-lane highway waits for just the right moment,
accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes
back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver?
Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane
highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the
passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming
traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in
judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can
suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the
worst of all traffic accidents -- the head-on collision.
So here are some tips for passing:

D “Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides and to
crossroads for situations that might affect your passing
patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about
making a successful pass, wait for a better time.

D Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines.

If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a
turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken
center line usually indicates it’s all right to pass
(providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid
line on your side of the lane or a double solid line,
even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic.

D Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to

pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one
thing, following too closely reduces your area of
vision, especially if you’re following a larger
vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the
vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a
reasonable distance.

D When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up,

start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t
get too close. Time your move so you will be
increasing speed as the time comes to move into the
other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a
“running start” that more than makes up for the
distance you would lose by dropping back. And if
something happens to cause you to cancel your pass,
you need only slow down and drop back again and
wait for another opportunity.

D If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait
your turn. But take care that someone isn’t trying to
pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle.
Remember to glance over your shoulder and check
the blind spot.

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D Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and

D
D
D

start your left lane change signal before moving out
of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough
ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your
inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal
and move back into the right lane. (Remember that
your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you
just passed may seem to be farther away from you
than it really is.)
Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time
on two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the
next vehicle.
Don’t overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly.
Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it may
be slowing down or starting to turn.
If you’re being passed, make it easy for the
following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you
can ease a little to the right.

Loss of Control
Let’s review what driving experts say about what
happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering
and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the
tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked.
In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and
constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.

4-14

Skidding
In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.
Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable
care suited to existing conditions, and by not “overdriving”
those conditions. But skids are always possible.
The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle’s
three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels
aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too
much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and
lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too
much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.
A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off
the accelerator pedal.
If you have the traction control system, remember: It
helps avoid only the acceleration skid.
If you do not have traction control, or if the system is
off, then an acceleration skid is also best handled by
easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.
If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the
accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the
vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your
vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a
second skid if it occurs.

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Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice,
gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll
want to slow down and adjust your driving to these
conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery
surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and
vehicle control more limited.

Driving at Night

While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try
your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or
braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower
gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide.
You may not realize the surface is slippery until your
vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning
clues -- such as enough water, ice or packed snow on
the road to make a “mirrored surface” -- and slow down
when you have any doubt.
Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps
avoid only the braking skid.
Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One
reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired -- by
alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue.

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Here are some tips on night driving.

D Drive defensively.
D Don’t drink and drive.
D Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the
glare from headlamps behind you.

D Since you can’t see as well, you may need to

slow down and keep more space between you and
other vehicles.

D Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your
headlamps can light up only so much road ahead.

D In remote areas, watch for animals.
D If you’re tired, pull off the road in a safe place
and rest.

Night Vision
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as
we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old
driver may require at least twice as much light to see the
same thing at night as a 20-year-old.
What you do in the daytime can also affect your night
vision. For example, if you spend the day in bright
sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will
have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you’re

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driving, don’t wear sunglasses at night. They may cut
down on glare from headlamps, but they also make a lot
of things invisible.
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching
headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several
seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you
are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who
doesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle with
misaimed headlamps), slow down a little. Avoid staring
directly into the approaching headlamps.
Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicle
clean -- inside and out. Glare at night is made much
worse by dirt on the glass. Even the inside of the glass
can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makes
lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would,
making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly.
Remember that your headlamps light up far less of a
roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your
eyes moving; that way, it’s easier to pick out dimly
lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be
checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes
be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night
blindness -- the inability to see in dim light -- and aren’t
even aware of it.

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Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet
road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because
your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads.
And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get
even less traction. It’s always wise to go slower and be
cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The
surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are
tuned for driving on dry pavement.
The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your
windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain
can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals,
pavement markings, the edge of the road and even
people walking.
It’s wise to keep your windshield wiping equipment in
good shape and keep your windshield washer tank filled
with washer fluid. Replace your windshield wiper
inserts when they show signs of streaking or missing
areas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to
separate from the inserts.

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CAUTION:
Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work
as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to
one side. You could lose control of the vehicle.
After driving through a large puddle of water or
a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until
your brakes work normally.

Hydroplaning

Driving too fast through large water puddles or even
going through some car washes can cause problems, too.
The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles.
But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them.

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Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up
under your tires that they can actually ride on the water.
This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re
going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning,
it has little or no contact with the road.
Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But it can if your
tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in one or
more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on
the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone
poles or other vehicles, and raindrops “dimple” the
water’s surface, there could be hydroplaning.

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Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There
just isn’t a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The
best advice is to slow down when it is raining.

City Driving

Driving Through Deep Standing Water

NOTICE:
If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or
standing water, water can come in through your
engine’s air intake and badly damage your
engine. Never drive through water that is slightly
lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you
can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive
through them very slowly.

Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
D Besides slowing down, allow some extra following

distance. And be especially careful when you pass
another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room
ahead, and be prepared to have your view restricted
by road spray.

One of the biggest problems with city streets is the
amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for
what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to
traffic signals.

D Have good tires with proper tread depth. (See
“Tires” in the Index.)

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Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:

D Know the best way to get to where you are

Freeway Driving

going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an
unknown part of the city just as you would for a
cross-country trip.

D Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross
most large cities. You’ll save time and energy.
(See the next part, “Freeway Driving.”)

D Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic

light is there because the corner is busy enough to
need it. When a light turns green, and just before you
start to move, check both ways for vehicles that have
not cleared the intersection or may be running the
red light.

Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways,
expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest
of all roads. But they have their own special rules.

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The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep
up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same
speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or
too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the
left lane on a freeway as a passing lane.

When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper
lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not,
under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to
the next exit.

At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the
freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you
drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to
check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to
blend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close to
the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check
your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as
necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.

The exit speed is usually posted.

Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to the
posted limit or to the prevailing rate if it’s slower. Stay
in the right lane unless you want to pass.
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use
your turn signal.
Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your
shoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle in your
“blind” spot.
Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you
allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move
slightly slower at night.

The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.
Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not
to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance
at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going
slower than you actually are.

Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Make sure you’re ready. Try to be well rested. If you
must start when you’re not fresh -- such as after a day’s
work -- don’t plan to make too many miles that first part
of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you
can easily drive in.
Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it
serviced and maintained, it’s ready to go. If it needs
service, have it done before starting out. Of course,
you’ll find experienced and able service experts in
Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be
ready and willing to help if you need it.

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Here are some things you can check before a trip:

D Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are
all windows clean inside and outside?

D Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?
D Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked
all levels?

D Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?
D Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,
trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for
long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to the
recommended pressure?

D Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook

along your route? Should you delay your trip a short
time to avoid a major storm system?

D Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?

Highway Hypnosis
Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”?
Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it
highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever.
There is something about an easy stretch of road with
the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the
road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind
against the vehicle that can make you sleepy. Don’t let it
happen to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the
road in less than a second, and you could crash and
be injured.
What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, be
aware that it can happen.
Then here are some tips:

D Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a
comfortably cool interior.

D Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to
the sides. Check your rearview mirrors and your
instruments frequently.

D If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service
or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or
both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as
an emergency.

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Hill and Mountain Roads

If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re
planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make
your trips safer and more enjoyable.

D Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid
levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system
and transaxle. These parts can work hard on
mountain roads.

D Know how to go down hills. The most important

thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the
slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go
down a steep or long hill.

CAUTION:

Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from
driving in flat or rolling terrain.

If you don’t shift down, your brakes could get
so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would
then have poor braking or even none going
down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to let
your engine assist your brakes on a steep
downhill slope.

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D Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane

CAUTION:
Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the
ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do
all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot
that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have
poor braking or even none going down a hill. You
could crash. Always have your engine running and
your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.

D Know how to go uphill. Drive in the highest
gear possible.

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roads in hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cut
across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let
you stay in your own lane.

D As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There

could be something in your lane, like a stalled car or
an accident.

D You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of

special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or
no-passing zones, a falling rocks area or winding
roads. Be alert to these and take appropriate action.

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Winter Driving

Here are some tips for winter driving:

D Have your vehicle in good shape for winter.
D You may want to put winter emergency supplies in
your trunk.

Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply
of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer
clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a
couple of reflective warning triangles. And, if you will
be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag
of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags
to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure
these items in your vehicle.

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Driving on Snow or Ice
Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the
road probably have good traction.
However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and
the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll
have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be
very careful.

What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold
snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet
ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the
least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s about
freezing (32_F; 0_C) and freezing rain begins to fall.
Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews
can get there.
Whatever the condition -- smooth ice, packed, blowing
or loose snow -- drive with caution.
If you have traction control, keep the system on. It will
improve your ability to accelerate when driving on a
slippery road. Even though your vehicle has a traction
control system, you’ll want to slow down and adjust
your driving to the road conditions. See “Traction
Control System” in the Index.
If you don’t have the traction control system, accelerate
gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you
accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish
the surface under the tires even more.

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Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability
when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even
though you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll
want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry
pavement. See “Anti-Lock” in the Index.

If You’re Caught in a Blizzard

D Allow greater following distance on any
slippery road.

D Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine

until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice. On an
otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in
shaded areas where the sun can’t reach: around
clumps of trees, behind buildings or under bridges.
Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass may
remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If
you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you
are on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually on
the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.

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If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a
serious situation. You should probably stay with your
vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help
and you can hike through the snow. Here are some
things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your
passengers safe:

D Turn on your hazard flashers.
D Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that
you’ve been stopped by the snow.

D Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you.

If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body
insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor
mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or
tuck under your clothing to keep warm.
You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.

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CAUTION:
Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle.
This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas
to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill
you. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might not
know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from
around the base of your vehicle, especially any
that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check
around again from time to time to be sure snow
doesn’t collect there.
Open a window just a little on the side of the
vehicle that’s away from the wind. This will help
keep CO out.

Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost
all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again
and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable
from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the
fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get
out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises
every half hour or so until help comes.

Recreational Vehicle Towing
You can tow your vehicle behind another vehicle for use
at your destination. Be sure to use the proper towing
equipment designed for recreational towing. Follow the
instructions for the towing equipment.

Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves
fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster
than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This
uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the
battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to
restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on
with your headlamps. Let the heater run for a while.

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Loading Your Vehicle

To tow your vehicle, follow these steps:
1. Put the front wheels on a dolly.
2. Put the vehicle in PARK (P).
3. Set the parking brake and then remove the key.
4. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position
with a clamping device designed for towing.
5. Release the parking brake.

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

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

The other label is the Certification label, also found on
the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross
weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes
the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo.
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or
rear axle.
And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread
it out. Don’t carry more than 176 lbs. (80 kg) in
your trunk.

NOTICE:
Your warranty does not cover parts or
components that fail because of overloading.
If you put things inside your vehicle -- like suitcases,
tools, packages, or anything else -- they will go as fast
as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly,
or if there is a crash, they’ll keep going.

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CAUTION:
Things you put inside your vehicle can strike
and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in
a crash.
D Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a
trunk, put them as far forward as you can.
Try to spread the weight evenly.
D Never stack heavier things, like suitcases,
inside the vehicle so that some of them are
above the tops of the seats.
D Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint in
your vehicle.
D When you carry something inside the
vehicle, secure it whenever you can.

Electronic Level Control
This feature keeps the rear of your vehicle level as the
load changes. It’s automatic -- you don’t need to
adjust anything.

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Towing a Trailer
CAUTION:
If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive
properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer.
For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes
may not work well -- or even at all. You and your
passengers could be seriously injured. You may also
damage your vehicle; the resulting repairs would not
be covered by your warranty. Pull a trailer only if you
have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your
dealer for advice and information about towing a
trailer with your vehicle.
Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the
proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the
vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you
should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer”
that appears later in this section. But trailering is
different than just driving your vehicle by itself.
Trailering means changes in handling, durability and
fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct
equipment, and it has to be used properly.

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That’s the reason for this part. In it are many
time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules.
Many of these are important for your safety and that of
your passengers. So please read this section carefully
before you pull a trailer.

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

Load-pulling components such as the engine, transaxle,
wheel assemblies and tires are forced to work harder
against the drag of the added weight. The engine is
required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under
greater loads, generating extra heat. What’s more, the
trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing
the pulling requirements.

D Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a trailer.

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

Three important considerations have to do with weight:

If you do, here are some important points:

D the weight of the trailer,
D the weight of the trailer tongue
D and the total weight on your vehicle’s tires.

D There are many different laws, including speed limit

Weight of the Trailer

If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer

restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure
your rig will be legal, not only where you live but
also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this
information can be state or provincial police.

D Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch
dealer about sway controls.

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

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

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

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You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or
advice, or you can write us at:
Buick Motor Division
Customer Relations Center
P.O. Box 5039
Troy, MI 48007-5039
In Canada, write to:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important
weight to measure because it affects the total or gross
weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight
(GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any
cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be
riding in the vehicle. And if you tow a trailer, you must
add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle
will be carrying that weight, too. See “Loading Your
Vehicle” in the Index for more information about your
vehicle’s maximum load capacity.

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If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer
tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded
trailer weight (B). If you have a weight-distributing
hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of
the total loaded trailer weight (B).
After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are
proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right
simply by moving some items around in the trailer.

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Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires

Safety Chains

Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper
limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the
Tire-Loading Information label at the rear edge of the
driver’s door, or see “Loading Your Vehicle” in the
Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW
limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the
trailer tongue.

You should always attach chains between your vehicle
and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue
of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road
if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions
about safety chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety
chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always
leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig.
And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.

Hitches
It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a
few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are
some rules to follow:

D The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for

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

D Will you have to make any holes in the body of your

Trailer Brakes
Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to read
and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so
you’ll be able to install, adjust and maintain them
properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try
to tap into your vehicle’s brake system. If you do, both
brake systems won’t work well, or at all.

vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do,
then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove
the hitch. If you don’t seal them, deadly carbon
monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your
vehicle (see “Carbon Monoxide” in the Index). Dirt
and water can, too.

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Driving with a Trailer

Passing

Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get
to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added weight of the
trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are
driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.

You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when
you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal
longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the
passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.

Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform
(and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector,
lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has
electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and
then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure
the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes
are still working.

Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you
would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This
can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking
and sudden turns.

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Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if
possible, have someone guide you.

Making Turns

NOTICE:
Making very sharp turns while trailering could
cause the trailer to come in contact with the
vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid
making very sharp turns while trailering.
When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than
normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders,
curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or
sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.

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Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer

Driving On Grades

The arrows on your instrument panel will flash
whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly
hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other
drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop.

Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start
down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift
down, you might have to use your brakes so much that
they would get hot and no longer work well.

When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument
panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer
are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind
you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’s
important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer
bulbs are still working.

On a long uphill grade, use the highest gear possible.
If you cannot maintain posted speeds, driving at a
lower speed may help avoid overheating your engine
and transaxle.

Your vehicle has bulb warning lights. When you plug a
trailer lighting system into your vehicle’s lighting
system, its bulb warning lights may not let you know if
one of your lamps goes out. So, when you have a trailer
lighting system plugged in, be sure to check your
vehicle and trailer lamps from time to time to be sure
they’re all working. Once you disconnect the trailer
lamps, the bulb warning lights again can tell you if one
of your vehicle lamps is out.

Parking on Hills

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

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But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s
how to do it:
1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into
PARK (P) yet.
2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the
regular brake until the chocks absorb the load.
4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your parking
brake, and then shift to PARK (P).

Maintenance When Trailer Towing
Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re
pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more
on this. Things that are especially important in trailer
operation are automatic transaxle fluid (don’t overfill),
engine oil, drive 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 this information before you start
your trip.

5. Release the regular brakes.

Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts
are tight.

When You Are Ready to Leave After
Parking on a Hill

Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing

1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down
while you:

Your cooling system may temporarily overheat during
severe operating conditions. See “Engine Overheating”
in the Index.

D Start your engine;
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.

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Section 5 Problems on the Road
Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.
5-2
5-3
5-3
5-8
5-9

Hazard Warning Flashers
Other Warning Devices
Jump Starting
Towing Your Vehicle
Engine Overheating

5-11
5-17
5-17
5-27
5-28

Cooling System
If a Tire Goes Flat
Changing a Flat Tire
Compact Spare Tire
If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

5-1

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Hazard Warning Flashers

Press down on the
button located on top of
the steering column to
make your front and rear
turn signal lamps flash on
and off.

The hazard light on the
instrument panel will also
come on and flash.

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

Your hazard warning
flashers work no matter
what position your key is in,
and even if the key isn’t in.
To turn off the flashers, press down on the button again.
When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn
signals won’t work.

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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.

Jump Starting
If your battery has run down, you may want to
use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start
your vehicle. But please use the following steps 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 ACDelco FreedomR 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.

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

CAUTION:
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.

5-4

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug
unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette
lighter or accessory power outlet. Turn off all lamps
that aren’t needed as well as radios. This will avoid
sparks and help save both batteries. In addition, it
could save your radio.

NOTICE:
If you leave your radio on, it could be badly
damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by
your warranty.
4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the
positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each
battery. Your vehicle has a remote positive (+)
terminal for this purpose. (The battery is under the
back seat.)

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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 ACDelco FreedomR
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.

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 (+) and negative (-) will go to a metal
engine part. Don’t connect positive (+) to
negative (-) or you’ll get a short that would
damage the battery and maybe other parts too.

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

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

6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the
remote positive (+) terminal of the vehicle
with the dead battery.

5-6

8. Now connect the
black negative (-) cable
to the good battery’s
negative (-) terminal.

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

9. Attach the 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, but 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 with the dead battery.
If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably
needs service.
12. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent
electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch
each other or any other metal.

A. Heavy Metal Engine Part
B. Good Battery
C. Dead Battery

5-7

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Towing Your Vehicle
CAUTION:
To help avoid serious personal injury to you
or others:
D Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is
being towed.
D Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds.
D Never tow with damaged parts not
fully secured.
D Never get under your vehicle after it has
been lifted by the tow truck.
D Always secure the vehicle on each side with
separate safety chains when towing it.
D Use only the correct hooks.

5-8

NOTICE:
Use the proper towing equipment to avoid
damage to the bumper, fascia or fog lamp areas
of the vehicle.
With current trends in automotive styles and design, it is
essential that the correct towing equipment is used to
tow a vehicle. Your vehicle can be towed with wheel-lift
or car-carrier equipment.
Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if
you need to have your vehicle towed. See “Roadside
Assistance” in the Index.

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Engine Overheating
You will find a coolant temperature gage and the
warning light about a hot engine on your instrument
panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” and
“Low Coolant Warning Light” in the Index.

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.

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NOTICE:

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.

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.

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
D
D
D

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

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 ( )
or THIRD (3).

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.
You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service
help right away.

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

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

CAUTION:

If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling,
don’t do anything else until it cools down.

The coolant level should be at or above FULL COLD. 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.

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.

5-11

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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.

5-12

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.

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How to Add Coolant to the Coolant
Recovery Tank

NOTICE:

If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level
isn’t at FULL COLD, 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.)

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 like 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.

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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
FULL COLD, 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.

5-14

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

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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.)

3. 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 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.

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to FULL COLD.

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5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but
leave the radiator pressure cap off.

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.

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.

5-16

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If a Tire Goes Flat

Changing a Flat Tire

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 tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage
by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard
warning flashers.

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.

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.

5-17

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Removing the Spare Tire and Tools

The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and
change a tire.

The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk.
Instructions for changing your tires are on the inside of
the tire cover. You can rest the cover near you for easy
reference while you change the tire.
1. Lift and remove the spare tire cover for access to the
spare tire and jack.

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2. Remove the wheel wrench and jack from the jack
container. Turn the spare tire retainer bolt
counterclockwise and remove the retainer assembly.

Removing the Wheel Cover

3. Remove the spare tire from the trunk.

The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and wheel
wrench (B).

Your vehicle has a wheel cover which must be taken off
to reach the wheel nuts. Insert the flat end of the wrench
into the notch in the center cover. Pry carefully, so the
center cover is not scratched.

5-19

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Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the
Spare Tire

3. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower
the jack lift head until it fits under the vehicle.
1. Position the wheel wrench securely over the wheel
nuts to loosen, but don’t remove them yet.
2. Attach the wheel wrench to the bolt on the end of the
jack to create a jack handle.

5-20

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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:
4. Near each wheel well is a notch in the frame to
position the jack head. You’ll find the word JACK
and an arrow stamped into the plastic near each
notch. Position the jack under the vehicle and raise
the jack head until it fits firmly against the sheet
metal next to the word JACK. Do not raise the
vehicle yet. Put the compact spare near you.

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.

5-21

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7. Remove any rust or dirt
from the wheel bolts,
mounting surfaces and
spare wheel.

CAUTION:
5. Raise the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench
clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the
ground so there is enough room for the spare
tire to fit.
6. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.

5-22

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.

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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.

8. Place the spare on the
wheel-mounting surface.

9. Replace the wheel nuts
with the rounded end of
the nuts toward the
wheel. Tighten each nut
by hand until the wheel
is held against the hub.
If a nut cannot be
tightened by hand,
use the wheel wrench
and see your dealer
right away.

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11. Using the wheel
wrench, tighten the
wheel nuts firmly in
a criss-cross sequence
as shown.

CAUTION:
10. Lower the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench
counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.

5-24

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).

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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.
12. Store the wheel cover in the trunk until you have
the flat tire repaired or replaced.

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.

Storing the Flat 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.
After you’ve put the compact spare tire on your vehicle,
you’ll need to store the flat tire in the trunk.
Store the flat tire as far forward in the trunk as possible.
Store the jack and wheel wrench in their compartment in
the trunk. For storage, the jack must be raised until the
screw end is flush with the edge of the jack.

When the flat tire has been repaired or replaced,
install the wheel cover. Be sure to position the
alignment pin on the cover with the notch in the
wheel. Apply pressure around the edge of the cap to
snap it in place.

5-25

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Storing the 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.
Store the compact spare tire and tools as shown in
the diagram.
The compact spare is for temporary use only. Replace
the compact spare tire with a full size tire as soon as you
can. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section.

5-26

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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.

5-27

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If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud,
Ice or Snow

NOTICE:

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.

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.

CAUTION:

For information about using tire chains on your vehicle,
see “Tire Chains” in the Index.

Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out
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.

5-28

First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear
the area around your front wheels. You should turn your
traction control system off. (See “Traction Control System”
in the Index.) If your vehicle has traction control, you should
turn the 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.

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✍

NOTES

5-29

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✍

5-30

NOTES

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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
6-8
6-8
6-11
6-15
6-17
6-18
6-20
6-21
6-25
6-26
6-29
6-31

Service
Fuel
Filling Your Tank
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
Checking Things Under the Hood
Engine Oil
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Supercharger Oil
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
Radiator Pressure Cap
Engine Coolant
Windshield Washer Fluid
Brakes
Battery
Bulb Replacement

6-39
6-47
6-48
6-51
6-54
6-54
6-55
6-56
6-57
6-61
6-66
6-66
6-67
6-67

Tires
Appearance Care
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
Underbody Maintenance
Chemical Paint Spotting
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Electrical System
Removing the Rear Seat Cushion
Replacement Bulbs
Capacities and Specifications
Air Conditioning Refrigerants
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

6-1

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Service

Doing Your Own Service Work

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.

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.

We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM.
Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:

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 list
the mileage and the date of any service work you
perform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index.

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.
CAUTION: (Continued)

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CAUTION: (Continued)

D Be sure you have sufficient knowledge,
experience, the proper replacement parts
and tools before you attempt any vehicle
maintenance task.

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 premium unleaded gasoline rated at 91 octane or
higher. It is recommended that the gasoline meet
specifications which have been developed by the
American Automobile Manufacturers Association
(AAMA) and endorsed by the Canadian Motor Vehicle
Manufacturers Association for better vehicle performance
and engine protection. Gasolines meeting the AAMA
specification could provide improved driveability and
emission control system performance compared to other

gasolines. For more information, write to: American
Automobile Manufacturer’s Association, 7430 Second
Ave, Suite 300, Detroit MI 48202.
Be sure the posted octane for premium is at least 91. If
the octane is less than 91, you may get a heavy knocking
noise when you drive. (In an emergency, you may be
able to use a lower octane -- as low as 87 -- if heavy
knocking does not occur.) If you’re using 91 or higher
octane unleaded gasoline and you hear heavy knocking,
your engine needs service.
If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission
Standards (indicated on the underhood emission control
label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet
California specifications. If such fuels are 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 on your instrument panel may turn on and/or your
vehicle may fail a smog-check test. (See “Malfunction
Indicator Lamp” in the Index.) If this occurs, return to
your authorized Buick dealer for diagnosis to determine
the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the
cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs
may not be covered by your warranty.

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Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low
emissions may contain an octane-enhancing additive
called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl
(MMT); ask your service station operator whether or not
the fuel contains MMT. General Motors does not
recommend the use of such gasolines. If fuels containing
MMT are used, spark plug life may be reduced and your
emission control system performance may be affected.
The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument
panel may turn on. If this occurs, return to your
authorized Buick dealer for service.
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States
are now required to contain additives that will help
prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel
system, allowing your emission control system to
function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add
anything to the fuel. In addition, 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 it. 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.
You can also write us at the following address for
advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
General Motors Overseas Distribution Corporation
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

6-4

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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.

The release button is on the
driver’s door below the
inside door handle.

The cap is behind a hinged door on the driver’s side of
your vehicle.

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The fuel door can also be
opened by using the release
in the trunk compartment,
on the driver’s side of
the vehicle.

While refueling, hang the tethered cap in the notch on
the fuel door.
To remove the cap, turn it slowly to the left
(counterclockwise). The cap has a spring in it; if you let
go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.

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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 filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen
if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in
hot weather. Open the fuel filler 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 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.

NOTICE:
If you need a new 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 your fuel tank and emissions system may be
damaged. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in
the Index.

6-7

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Filling a Portable Fuel Container
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.

6-8

Checking Things Under the Hood
CAUTION:
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 gasoline,
oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and
other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others
could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill
things that will burn onto a hot engine.

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Hood Release
Pull the handle inside the
vehicle to open the hood.
The handle is located on the
lower left side of the
instrument panel, next to the
parking brake release.

Then go to the front of the vehicle and locate the
secondary hood release. It is under the front edge of the
grille, slightly right of center as you face the vehicle.
Push up on the secondary hood release lever as you lift
up the hood.

6-9

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3800 Supercharged V6 (L67) Engine
When you open the hood on the 3800 Supercharged engine, here’s what you will see:

A. Windshield Washer
Fluid Reservoir
B. Remote Positive
Battery Terminal
C. Radiator Pressure Cap

6-10

D. Engine Oil Dipstick
E. Oil Fill Cap
F. Automatic Transaxle
Fluid Dipstick

G. Brake Master Cylinder
H. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank
I. Air Cleaner

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Your vehicle has a 3800 Supercharged V6 engine. The
supercharger is a device designed to pump more air into
the engine than it would normally use. This air, mixed
with fuel, creates increased engine power. Since the
supercharger is a pump and is driven from an engine
accessory drive belt, increased pressure is available at
all driving conditions.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) works with a
vacuum control to regulate the increased pressure
required during specific driving conditions. When this
increased pressure or boost is not desired, such as during
idling and light throttle cruising, the excess air that the
supercharger is pumping is routed through a bypass. All
of these controls working together provide high
performance, character and fuel efficiency in the 3800
V6 Supercharged engine.

Engine Oil

For more information, see “Check Oil Level Light” in
the Index. You should check your engine oil level
regularly; this is an added reminder.
It’s a good idea to check your engine oil every time you
get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must
be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.
The engine oil dipstick is a
round, yellow loop located
directly behind the
engine fan.
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.

If the CHECK OIL LEVEL
light on the instrument
panel comes on, it means
you need to check your
engine oil level right away.

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Checking Engine Oil

When to Add Engine Oil

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 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
crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications”
in the Index.

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.
Add engine oil at the engine oil fill cap next to the
oil dipstick.
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.

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

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As shown in the chart, SAE 10W-30 is best for your
vehicle. However, you can use SAE 5W-30 if it’s going
to be colder than 60_F (16_C) before your next oil
change. When it’s very cold, you should use SAE
5W-30. 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.

Engine Oil Additives
Don’t add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to
advise if you think something should be added.

When to Change Engine Oil
If any one of these is true for you, use the short trip/city
maintenance schedule:

D Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km).
This is particularly important when outside
temperatures are below freezing.

D Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent
driving in stop-and-go traffic).
D Most trips are through dusty areas.
D You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of
your vehicle.

GM GoodwrenchR oil meets all the requirements for
your vehicle.

D The vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxi

If you are in an area where the temperature falls below

Driving under these conditions causes engine oil to
break down sooner. If any one of these is true for your
vehicle, then you need to change your oil and filter
every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months -- whichever
occurs first.

-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

or other commercial application.

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If none of them is true, use the long trip/highway
maintenance schedule. Change the oil and filter every
7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 12 months -- whichever
occurs first. Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed
engine under highway conditions causes engine oil to
break down slower.

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

What to Do with Used Oil
Did you know that 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 real threat to the environment. If you
change your own oil, be sure to drain all free-flowing oil
from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever 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.

As you face the front of the vehicle, the engine air
cleaner is in the front right section of the engine
compartment. There is a filter inside the air cleaner.

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Remove the air cleaner assembly as follows:
1. Remove the air duct clamp and separate the hose
from the air cleaner cover. Rotate the hose on the
throttle body upward so it is out of the way.
2. Detach the electrical connector and remove the air
cleaner cover by flipping the two latches on the
bottom inboard side of the cover.
3. Tilt and pull the cover toward the engine to
disengage it from the assembly.
4. Remove the old filter and install the new one.
5. Reinstall the air cleaner cover by sliding the tabs into
the base of the air cleaner and locking the two
latches. Reinstall the electrical connector.
6. Rotate the inlet duct into position and slide it onto
the air cleaner outlet, then tighten the clamp.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to
replace the air filter.
See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

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.

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How to Check and Add Oil

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

Check oil only when the engine is cold. Allow the
engine to cool two to three hours after running.

CAUTION:
If you remove the supercharger oil fill plug while
the engine is hot, pressure may cause hot oil to
blow out of the oil fill hole. You may be burned.
Do not remove the plug until the engine cools.

When to Check

1. Clean the area around the oil fill plug before
removing it.

Check oil level every 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or every
36 months, whichever occurs first.

2. Remove the oil fill plug using a 3/16 inch
Allen wrench.

What Kind of Oil to Use

3. The oil level is correct when it just reaches the
bottom of the threads of the inspection hole.

See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index
and use only the recommended oil.

4. Replace the oil plug with the O-ring in place. Torque
to 88 lb-in (10 N·m).

6-17

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Automatic Transaxle Fluid
When to Check and Change

If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the
instructions here, or you could get a false reading on
the dipstick.

A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid
level is when the engine oil is changed.

NOTICE:

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.

How to Check
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may
choose to have this done at the dealership
service department.

6-18

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. 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:

D
D
D
D

When outside temperatures are above 90_F (32_C).
At high speed for quite a while.
In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather.
While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at
normal operating temperature, which is 180_F to
200_F (82_C to 93_C).

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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.

2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and
then pull it back out again.

Checking the Fluid Level

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:
1. The transaxle fluid
dipstick is a round, red
loop located next to the
brake master cylinder.
Pull out the dipstick and
wipe it with a clean rag
or paper towel.

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.

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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.

6-20

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.

Radiator Pressure Cap
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.
When you replace your radiator pressure cap, a GM cap
is recommended.

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Thermostat
Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat
in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the
flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant
reaches a preset temperature.
When you replace your thermostat, a GM thermostat i
s recommended.

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
D
D
D
D

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 lights and gages work as
they should.

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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.

6-22

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.

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If this light comes on and
stays on, it means you’re
low on engine coolant.

Checking Coolant

Adding Coolant

If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOLR
coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be
careful not to spill it.

CAUTION:
The engine coolant recovery tank is located on the
driver’s side of the engine compartment.
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 up to FULL HOT or a little higher.

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.

6-23

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When to Check Power Steering Fluid

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.

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.
The power steering fluid reservoir is located below the
generator and behind the accessory drive belt.

How to Check Power Steering Fluid
When the engine compartment is cool, 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.
The level should be at the FULL COLD mark. If
necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up to
the mark.

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.

6-24

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Windshield Washer Fluid

Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add
washer fluid until the tank is full.

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.

Adding Washer Fluid

NOTICE:
D When using concentrated washer fluid,
D

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

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Brakes
Brake Fluid

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.

CAUTION:

Your brake master cylinder reservoir is on the driver’s
side of the engine compartment. It is filled with DOT-3
brake fluid.
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

6-26

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.
When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake
warning light will come on. A chime will sound if you
try to drive with this warning light on. See “Brake
System Warning Light” in the Index.

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What to Add
When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake
fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only.
Refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the
Maintenance Schedule.

NOTICE:
D Using the wrong fluid can badly damage

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.

CAUTION:
With the wrong kind of fluid 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.

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

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

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 torque wheel nuts in the
proper sequence to GM specifications.
Brake linings should always be replaced as complete
axle sets.

CAUTION:
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.

See “Brake System Inspection” in Section 7 of this manual
under Part C “Periodic Maintenance Inspections.”

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

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

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Every time you apply the brakes, with or without the
vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.

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Replacing Brake System Parts
The braking system on a vehicle is complex.
Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well
together if the vehicle is to have really good braking.
Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality
GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking
system -- for example, when your brake linings wear
down and you have to have 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 an ACDelco FreedomR
battery. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend
an ACDelco Freedom battery. Get one that has the
replacement number shown on the original battery’s label.

The battery is located under the rear seat cushion. To
access the battery, see “Removing the Rear Seat
Cushion” in the Index. You don’t need to access the
battery to jump start your vehicle. See “Jump Starting”
in the Index.

CAUTION:
A battery that isn’t properly vented can let
sulfuric acid fumes into the area under the rear
seat cushion. These fumes can damage your rear
seat safety belt systems. You may not be able to
see this damage, and the safety belts might not
provide the protection needed in a crash. If a
replacement battery is ever needed, it must be
vented in the same manner as the original
battery. Always make sure that the vent hose
is properly reattached before reinstalling the
seat cushion.

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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.

CAUTION:

To be sure the vent hose (A) is properly attached, the
vent hose connectors (B) must be securely reattached to
the vent outlets (C) on each side of the battery, and the
vent assembly grommet (D) must be secured to the floor
pan (E).

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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” in the Index.

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Bulb Replacement

Headlamps

The following procedure tells you how to replace your
headlamp bulbs. For the type of bulb, see “Replacement
Bulbs” in the Index.
For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this
section, contact your dealer’s service department.

Halogen Bulbs

CAUTION:
Halogen bulbs have pressurized 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.

A. Headlamp
B. Front Turn Signal
The entire front headlamp assembly must be removed to
replace the headlamps. If more hand clearance is
required, you may find it easier to remove the engine air
cleaner/filter assembly before replacing bulbs on the
driver’s side.

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To remove the air cleaner assembly, see Steps 1 through
3 earlier in this section. See “Air Cleaner” in the Index.

The passenger’s side high-beam headlamp access area is
next to the radiator pressure cap.
The passenger’s side low-beam headlamp access area is
to the right and slightly behind the high beam area.
The driver’s side high-beam headlamp access area is
located near the air cleaner.

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The driver’s side low-beam headlamp access area
is behind and between the high-beam area and the
air cleaner.
1. Loosen the two bolts on the inboard edge of the
headlamp assembly. This allows you to pull out
the assembly for more hand clearance when
changing bulbs.
2. Reach into the assembly
and turn the bulb socket
one-quarter of a turn
toward the center of the
engine compartment,
while pressing it firmly.

3. Remove the wire connector from the bulb by
lifting the lock tab (B) and pulling it away from the
plastic base.
4. Install the bulb by putting the small tab (D) into the
small notch in the lamp (E).

5. Turn the bulb socket one-quarter of a turn making
sure the tab is properly engaged in the panel slot.
6. To reassemble, attach the wire connector (A) to the
plastic base making sure the lock tab (B) is over the
lock (C).
7. Replace the headlamp assembly and tighten the two
bolts on the inboard edge of the assembly.
Headlamp Aiming
Your vehicle has a headlamp system equipped with
horizontal and vertical aim indicators. The aim has been
pre-set at the factory and should need no further
adjustment. This is true even though your vertical and
horizontal aim indicators may not fall exactly on the “0”
(zero) marks on their scales.
If your vehicle is damaged in an accident, the headlamp
aim may be affected. Aim adjustment may be necessary
if it is difficult to see lane markers (for horizontal aim),
or if oncoming drivers flash their high beams at you (for
vertical aim). If you believe your headlamps need to be
re-aimed, we recommend that you take it to your dealer
for service; however, it is possible for you to re-aim
your headlamps as described in the following procedure.

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NOTICE:
To make sure your headlamps are aimed
properly, read all the instructions before
beginning. Failure to follow these instructions
could cause damage to headlamp parts.

The headlamp aiming devices are under the hood near
the headlamps.
Start with the horizontal aim. The adjustment screws can
be turned with an E8 TorxR socket or T15 screwdriver.
Once the horizontal aim is adjusted, then adjust the
vertical aim.

The vehicle should be properly prepared as follows:

D The vehicle must have all four tires on a perfectly
level surface.

D If necessary, pads may be used on an uneven surface.
D The vehicle should not have any snow, ice or mud
attached to it.

D The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other

work stopped while headlamp aiming is being done.

D There should not be any cargo or loading of the

vehicle, except it should have a full tank of fuel and
one person or 160 lbs. (75 kg) on the driver’s seat.

D Close all doors.
D Tires should be properly inflated.
D Rock the vehicle to stabilize the suspension.
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1. Turn the horizontal aiming screw (A) until the
indicator (B) is lined up with zero.

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Taillamps/Rear Turn Signal/Back-Up
Lamps

2. Turn the vertical aiming screw (C) until the level
bubble (D) is lined up with zero.

Front Turn Signal Lamps
The turn signal bulb is located in the front fascia.
1. Remove the panel on the underside of the bulb assembly
by pulling the two fasteners that hold it in place.
2. Reach in to press the locking tab and twist the bulb
socket one-quarter of a turn counterclockwise and
pull the bulb out of the socket.

Taillamps: A, B and C
Rear Turn Signal: A and C
Back-Up Lamps: D
The entire taillamp assembly must be removed to
change any of these bulbs.

3. Replace the bulb, then reassemble by reversing Steps
1 and 2.

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To access them, do the following:
1. Remove the screws that secure the trunk trim over
the taillamp area.

6-36

2. Remove the plastic wing nuts that hold the taillamp
assembly in place.

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3. Pull the taillamp assembly away from the vehicle
carefully, to avoid scratching the paint. The taillamp
has safety straps to help you hold the assembly while
replacing the bulbs.

1. Remove the bulb socket assembly by squeezing the
plastic lock and turning it one-quarter of a turn
counterclockwise.

The following instructions explain how to change
each bulb.

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Interior Lamps
Front and Rear Reading Lamps
To change the bulbs in the front and rear reading lamps,
do the following:
1. Carefully insert a flat head screwdriver in the slot
between the lens cover and molding.
2. Gently pry the lens cover away to expose the reading
lamp bulb. The lens cover should pop off.
3. Twist or pull the bulb from its assembly and install a
new bulb.
4. Snap the lens cover back in place.
2. Pull the bulb straight out to remove it from
the socket.
3. Install a new bulb into the socket. Reverse
the instructions to replace the socket and the
taillamp assembly.

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Windshield Wiper
Blade Replacement

2. Insert a small screwdriver into the hole (A) and pull
the blade assembly off the wiper arm (B).

Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least
twice a year for wear or cracking. See “Wiper Blade
Check” in section 7 of this manual under Part B “Owner
Checks and Services” for more information.

For the proper windshield wiper blade length and type,
see “Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts” in
the Index.

Replacement blades come in different types and are
removed in different ways. Here’s how to remove the
type with a release hole:
1. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from
the windshield.

3. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm.

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.

CAUTION:
Poorly maintained and improperly used tires
are dangerous.
D Overloading your tires can cause
overheating as a result of too much friction.
You could have an air-out and a serious
accident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in
the Index.
CAUTION: (Continued)

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CAUTION: (Continued)

D Underinflated tires pose the same danger as

overloaded tires. The resulting accident
could cause serious injury. Check all tires
frequently to maintain the recommended
pressure. Tire pressure should be checked
when your tires are cold.
Overinflated tires are more likely 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.

Inflation -- Tire Pressure
The Tire-Loading Information label, which is located 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).

6-40

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:
D Too much flexing
D Too much heat
D Tire overloading
D Bad wear
D Bad handling
D Bad fuel economy.
If your tires have too much air (overinflation),
you can get the following:
D Unusual wear
D Bad handling
D Rough ride
D Needless damage from road hazards.

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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.

When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation
pattern shown here.

Tire Inspection and Rotation

Don’t include the compact spare tire in your
tire rotation.

Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (10 000 to
13 000 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’s Time for
New Tires” and “Wheel Replacement” later in this section
for more information.

After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front
and rear inflation pressures as shown on the
Tire-Loading Information label. Make certain that
all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel
Nut Torque” in the Index.

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 “Scheduled
Maintenance Services” in the Index for scheduled
rotation intervals.

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When It’s Time for New Tires

CAUTION:
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
any rust or dirt from 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” in the Index.)

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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.

You need a new tire if any of the following statements
are true:
D You can see the indicators at three or more places
around the tire.
D You can see cord or fabric showing through the
tire’s rubber.
D The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deep
enough to show cord or fabric.
D The tire has a bump, bulge or split.
D The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that
can’t be repaired well because of the size or location
of the damage.

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Buying New Tires
To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at
the Tire-Loading Information 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.

CAUTION:
Mixing tires could cause you to lose 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.

CAUTION:
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.

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Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Treadwear

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.

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 1/2) times as well on the government course
as 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.

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
requirements and additional General Motors Tire
Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.

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Traction -- AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A,
B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability 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,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

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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
established for a tire that is properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or in combination,
can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced
carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life
and best overall performance.

Scheduled wheel alignment and wheel balancing are not
needed. However, if you notice unusual tire wear or
your vehicle pulling one way or the other, the alignment
may need to be reset. If you notice your vehicle
vibrating when driving on a smooth road, your wheels
may need to be rebalanced.

Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted
or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel,
wheel bolts and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the
wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum
wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your
dealer if any of these conditions exist.
Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need.
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying
capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the
same way as the one it replaces.
If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel
bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM
original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to
have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for
your vehicle.

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Used Replacement Wheels

CAUTION:
Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts
or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It
could affect the braking and handling of your
vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you lose
control. You could have a collision in which you or
others could be injured. Always use the correct
wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for replacement.

NOTICE:
The wrong wheel can also cause problems with
bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or
odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper
height, vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire
chain clearance to the body and chassis.
See “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index for
more information.

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CAUTION:
Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is
dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or
how far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly
and cause an accident. If you have to replace a
wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel.

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Tire Chains

NOTICE:
Use tire chains only where legal and only when
you must. Use only SAE Class “S” type chains
that are the proper size for your tires. Install
them on the front tires and tighten them as
tightly as possible with the ends securely
fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain
manufacturer’s instructions. If you can hear the
chains contacting your vehicle, stop and retighten
them. If the contact continues, slow down until it
stops. Driving too fast or spinning the wheels
with chains on will damage your vehicle.

Appearance Care
Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some
are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a
match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are
dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space.
When you use anything from a container to clean your
vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings
and instructions. And always open your doors or
windows when you’re cleaning the inside.

Never use these to clean your vehicle:

D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D

Gasoline
Benzene
Naphtha
Carbon Tetrachloride
Acetone
Paint Thinner
Turpentine
Lacquer Thinner
Nail Polish Remover

They can all be hazardous -- some more than
others -- and they can all damage your vehicle, too.
Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can.
In many uses, these will damage your vehicle:

D
D
D
D

Alcohol
Laundry Soap
Bleach
Reducing Agents

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Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
Use a vacuum cleaner often to get rid of dust and loose
dirt. Wipe vinyl, leather, plastic and painted surfaces
with a clean, damp cloth.

Cleaning of Fabric/Carpet
Your dealer has two cleaners, Multi-Purpose Interior
Cleaner and Capture Non-Solvent Dry Spot and Soil
Remover for cleaning fabric and carpet. They will clean
normal spots and stains very well. You can get
GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See
“Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.)
Here are some cleaning tips:

D
D
D
D

Always read the instructions on the cleaner label.
Clean up stains as soon as you can -- before they set.
Carefully scrape off any excess stain.
Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a
clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains
are stubborn.

D If a ring forms on fabric after spot cleaning, clean the
entire area immediately or it will set.

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Using Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner
on Fabric
1. Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt.
2. Always clean a whole trim panel or section. Mask
surrounding trim along stitch or welt lines.
3. Mix powdered cleaner following the directions on
the container label to form thick suds.
4. Use suds only and apply with a clean sponge. Don’t
saturate the material and don’t rub it roughly.
5. As soon as you’ve cleaned the section, use a sponge
to remove the suds.
6. Wipe cleaned area with a clean, damp towel or cloth.
7. Wipe with a clean cloth and let dry.

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Special Fabric Cleaning Problems

Cleaning Vinyl

Stains caused by such things as catsup, coffee (black),
egg, fruit, fruit juice, milk, soft drinks, vomit, urine and
blood can be removed as follows:

Use warm water and a clean cloth.

1. Carefully scrape off excess stain, then sponge the
soiled area with cool water.

D Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if

2. If a stain remains, follow the multi-purpose interior
cleaner instructions described earlier.

D Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You
may have to do it more than once.

you don’t get them off quickly. Use a clean cloth
and a vinyl/leather cleaner. See your dealer for
this product.

3. If an odor lingers after cleaning vomit or urine,
treat the area with a water/baking soda solution:
1 teaspoon (5 ml) of baking soda to 1 cup (250 ml)
of lukewarm water.

Cleaning Leather

4. Let dry.

D For stubborn stains, use a leather cleaner. See your

Stains caused by candy, ice cream, mayonnaise, chili
sauce and unknown stains can be removed as follows:

Use a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap or
saddle soap and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Then, let the
leather dry naturally. Do not use heat to dry.
dealer for this product.

1. Carefully scrape off excess stain.

D Never use oils, varnishes, solvent-based or abrasive

2. First, clean with cool water and allow to
dry completely.

D Soiled or stained leather should be cleaned

3. If a stain remains, follow instructions for
Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner.

cleaners, furniture polish or shoe polish on leather.
immediately. If dirt is allowed to work into the
finish, it can harm the leather.

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Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel

Care of Safety Belts

Use only mild soap and water to clean the top surfaces
of the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones or
waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield
and even make it difficult to see through the windshield
under certain conditions.

Keep belts clean and dry.

Cleaning Interior Plastic Components
Use only a mild soap and water solution on a soft
cloth or sponge. Commercial cleaners may affect the
surface finish.

CAUTION:
Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it
may severely weaken them. In a crash, they
might not be able to provide adequate protection.
Clean safety belts only with mild soap and
lukewarm water.

Cleaning Wood Panels
Use a clean cloth moistened in warm, soapy water (use
mild dish washing soap). Dry the wood immediately
with a clean cloth.

Cleaning Speaker Covers
Vacuum around a speaker cover gently, so that the
speaker won’t be damaged. Clean spots with just water
and mild soap.

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Cleaning Glass Surfaces
Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a
liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal
tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. (See
“Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.)
Don’t use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they may
cause scratches. Avoid placing decals on the inside rear
window, since they may have to be scraped off later. If
abrasive cleaners are used on the inside of the rear
window, an electric defogger element may be damaged.
Any temporary license should not be attached across the
defogger grid.

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Cleaning the Outside of the
Windshield and Wiper Blades
If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield
washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running,
wax, sap or other material may be on the blade
or windshield.
Clean the outside of the windshield with GM Windshield
Cleaner, Bon AmiR Powder (non-scratching glass
cleaning powder), GM Part No. 1050011. The windshield
is clean if beads do not form when you rinse it with water.
Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades
and affect their performance. Clean the blade by wiping
vigorously with a cloth soaked in full-strength windshield
washer solvent. Then rinse the blade with water.
Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary;
replace blades that look worn.

Weatherstrips
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six
months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent
application may be required. (See “Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.)

Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth
of color, gloss retention and durability.

Washing Your Vehicle
The best way to preserve your vehicle’s finish is to
keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or
cold water.
Don’t wash your vehicle in the direct rays of the sun.
Use a car washing soap. Don’t use strong soaps or
chemical detergents. Be sure to rinse the vehicle well,
removing all soap residue completely. You can get
GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See
“Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.) Don’t
use cleaning agents that are petroleum based, or that
contain acid or abrasives. All cleaning agents should be
flushed promptly and not allowed to dry on the surface,
or they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface
scratches and water spotting.
High pressure car washes may cause water to enter
your vehicle.

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Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
Use lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car
washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow
instructions under “Washing Your Vehicle.”

Finish Care
Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your vehicle by
hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint
finish. You can get GM-approved cleaning products
from your dealer. (See “Appearance Care and Materials”
in the Index.)
Your vehicle has a “basecoat/clearcoat” paint finish. The
clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored
basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are
non-abrasive and made for a basecoat/clearcoat
paint finish.

6-52

NOTICE:
Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on
a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may dull the
finish or leave swirl marks.
Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other
salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird
droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can
damage your vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted
surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If
necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked
safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather
and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period
of years. You can help to keep the paint finish looking
new by keeping your vehicle garaged or covered
whenever possible.

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Cleaning Aluminum or
Chrome-Plated Wheels (Option)
Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with
mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After
rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax
may then be applied.
The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted
surface of your vehicle. Don’t use strong soaps,
chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners, cleaners
with acid or abrasive cleaning brushes on them because
you could damage the surface. Do not use chrome polish
on any wheels other than chrome-plated wheels.
Use chrome polish only on chrome-plated wheels, but
avoid any painted surface of the wheel, and buff off
immediately after application.
Don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car wash
that has silicon carbide tire cleaning brushes. These
brushes can also damage the surface of these wheels.

Cleaning Tires
To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner.

NOTICE:
When applying a tire dressing always take care to
wipe off any overspray or splash from all painted
surfaces on the body or wheels of the vehicle.
Petroleum-based products may damage the paint
finish and tires.

Sheet Metal Damage
If your vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal
repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop
applies anti-corrosion material to the parts repaired or
replaced to restore corrosion protection.

6-53

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Finish Damage

Chemical Paint Spotting

Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish
should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode
quickly and may develop into a major repair expense.

Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a
chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and
attack painted surfaces on your vehicle. This damage
can take two forms: blotchy, ringlet-shaped
discolorations, and small irregular dark spots etched into
the paint surface.

Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-up
materials available from your dealer or other service
outlets. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected
in your dealer’s body and paint shop.

Underbody Maintenance
Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust
control can collect on the underbody. If these are not
removed, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur on the
underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan
and exhaust system even though they have
corrosion protection.
At least every spring, flush these materials from the
underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mud
and other debris can collect. Dirt packed in closed areas
of the frame should be loosened before being flushed.
Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can do
this for you.

6-54

Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Buick
will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of
new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within
12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of purchase,
whichever occurs first.

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GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
PART NUMBER
994954
1050172
1050173
1050174
1050214
1050427

SIZE
23 in. x 25 in.
16 oz. (0.473 L)
16 oz. (0.473 L)
16 oz. (0.473 L)
32 oz. (0.946 L)
23 oz. (0.680 L)

1052918**

8 oz. (0.237 L)

DESCRIPTION
Polishing Cloth – Wax Treated
Tar and Road Oil Remover
Chrome Cleaner and Polish
White Sidewall Tire Cleaner
Vinyl Cleaner
Glass Cleaner

t Protectant

Armor All

Multi-Purpose Interior
Cleaner
1052929
16 oz. (0.473 L)
Wheel Cleaner
1052930
8 oz. (0.237 L)
Capture Dry Spot Remover
12345721
2.5 sq. ft.
Synthetic Chamois
12345725
12 oz. (0.354 L)
Silicone Tire Shine
12377964*
16 oz. (0.473 L)
Finish Enhancer
12377966*
16 oz. (0.473 L)
Cleaner Wax
12377984*
16 oz. (0.473 L)
Surface Cleaner
See your General Motors Parts Department for these products.
See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.
1052925

16 oz. (0.473 L)

USAGE
Exterior polishing cloth
Removes tar, road oil and asphalt
Use on chrome, stainless steel, nickel, copper and brass
Removes soil and black marks from whitewalls
Cleans vinyl tops, upholstery and convertible tops
Removes dirt, grime, smoke and fingerprints
Protects leather, wood, acrylics, Plexiglas , plastic,
rubber and vinyl
Cleans carpets, seats, interior trim, door panels
and floor mats
Spray on and rinse with water
Attracts, absorbs and removes soils on fabric
Shines vehicle without scratching
Spray on tire shine
Removes dust, fingerprints and surface contaminants
Removes light scratches and oxidation and protects finish
Removes contaminants, blemishes and swirl marks
* For exterior use only.
** Not recommended for use on instrument panels.

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Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Service Parts Identification Label
You’ll find this label on the underside of the spare tire
cover. It’s very helpful if you ever need to order parts.
On this label is:

This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on
a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the
driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the
windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also
appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts
labels and the certificates of title and registration.

Engine Identification
The 8th character in your VIN is the engine code. This
code will help you identify your engine, specifications
and replacement parts.

6-56

D
D
D
D

your VIN,
the model designation,
paint information and
a list of all production options and
special equipment.

Be sure that this label is not removed from the vehicle.

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Electrical System

Headlamp Wiring

Add-On Electrical Equipment

The headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker.
An electrical overload will cause the lamps to go on and
off, or in some cases to remain off. If this happens, have
your headlamp wiring checked right away.

NOTICE:
Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle
unless you check with your dealer first. Some
electrical equipment can damage your vehicle
and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your
warranty. Some add-on electrical equipment can
keep other components from working as
they should.
Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to
add anything electrical to your vehicle, see “Servicing
Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle” in the Index.

Windshield Wiper Fuses
The windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuit
breaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavy
snow or ice, the wipers will stop until the motor cools. If
the overload is caused by some electrical problem and
not snow or ice, be sure to get it fixed.

Power Windows and Other Power Options
Circuit breakers in the fuse panel protect the power
windows and other power accessories. When the current
load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes,
protecting the circuit until the problem is fixed or
goes away.

6-57

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Fuses and Circuit Breakers
The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from
short circuits by a combination of fuses and
circuit breakers.
Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the
band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you
replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size
and rating.
If you ever have a problem on the road and don’t have a
spare fuse, you can borrow one that has the same
amperage. Just pick some feature of your vehicle that
you can get along without -- like the radio or cigarette
lighter -- and use its fuse if it is the correct amperage.
Replace it as soon as you can.

There is a fuse panel located at the end of the instrument
panel near the driver’s door.
There is an underhood electrical center and two other
fuse panels located under the rear seat.

6-58

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Instrument Panel Fuse Block

Fuse

Usage

Air Bag

Injectors

Anti-Lock Brake System

Left Exterior Lamps

Turn Signal Lamps

Oxygen Sensor

Climate Control

Right Exterior Lamps

HVAC Relay

MAF

Auxiliary Power

Interior Lamps

Chime

TMNSS

Cruise Control

Perimeter Lights

Not Used

6-59

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Fuse

6-60

Usage

Not Used

Radio

Cooling Fan

Not Used

Windshield Wipers

Flat Pack Motor

PCM

Cigarette Lighter

Crank

HVAC Blower

Engine Compartment Fuse Block

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Usage

Removing the Rear Seat Cushion

Air Conditioning Compressor

Not Used

To access the battery and main fuse boxes, the rear seat
cushion must be removed. You may wish to have your
dealer do this for you.

Not Used

Horn

Not Used

Cooling Fan #2

Cooling Fan #3

Cooling Fan

ABS Main

ABS Pump Motor

Not Used

Horn

Not Used

Fuse

NOTICE:
The battery and main fuse boxes are located under
the rear seat cushion. The battery’s ground
terminal and some relay wires are exposed. To help
avoid damage to the battery and wires, be careful
when removing or reinstalling the seat cushion. Do
not remove covers from covered parts. Do not store
anything under the seat, as objects could touch
exposed wires and cause a short.

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To Remove the Rear Seat Cushion
1. Pull up on the front of the cushion to release the
front hooks.
2. Pull the cushion up and out toward the front of
the vehicle.
To Reinstall the Rear Seat Cushion

CAUTION:
A safety belt that isn’t properly routed through
the seat cushion or is twisted won’t provide the
protection needed in a crash. If the safety belt
hasn’t been routed through the seat cushion at
all, it won’t be there to work for the next
passenger. The person sitting in that position
could be badly injured. After reinstalling the seat
cushion, always check to be sure that the safety
belts are properly routed and are not twisted.
1. Buckle the center passenger position safety belt, then
route the safety belts through the proper slots in the
seat cushion. Don’t let the safety belts get twisted.
2. Slide the rear of the cushion up and under the
seatback so the rear locating guides hook into the
wire loops on the back frame.
3. With the seat cushion lowered, push rearward and
then press down on the seat cushion until the spring
locks on both ends engage.
4. Check to make sure the safety belts are properly routed
and that no portion of any safety belt is trapped under
the seat. Also make sure the seat cushion is secured.

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Rear Compartment Driver’s Side Fuse Block

Fuse

Usage

1
2
3
4
5
6
7-10
11

Open
Electronic Level Control
Trunk Release Relay
Open
Fuel Pump Relay
Driver Door Unlock Relay
Open
Rear Defogger Relay
(Upper Zone)
Rear Defogger Relay
(Lower Zone)
Open
Spare
Spare
Spare
Open
Direct Accessory
Power - Accessory
Open

12
13
14
15
16
17-22
23
24

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Rear Compartment Passenger’s Side Fuse Block

6-64

Fuse

Usage

1-2

Spare

Open

Breaker - Power
Windows/Sunroof

5-6

Spare

Open

8-9

Spare

Open

Breaker - Power Seats

12-13

Spare

Open

Power Seat

Breaker-Headlamps

HVAC Blower Motor

Powertrain Control
Module/PASS-KeyR II

Ignition 3

Ignition 1

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Fuse

Usage

Fuse

Usage

Rear Defogger

Open

Trunk and Fuel Door Releases

Fuel Door Release

Electronic Level Control

Trunk Release

Heated Seats/Instrument Panel

Battery Thermistor

Exterior Lamps

Instrument Panel #2

Open

Instrument Panel #1

Power Door Locks

Heated Seats

Interior Lamps

Fuel Pump

Hazard Lamps/Stoplamps

Open

Parking Lamps

RR Defog 2

Heated Mirror

RR Defog 1

6-65

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Replacement Bulbs
Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bulb Number
Headlamp
High-Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9005
Low-Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9006
Parking/Turn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3057
Back-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3057
Tail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Tail/Turn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3057
Interior
Rail Courtesy, Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PC168
Front Overhead Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PC168
For service information on other bulbs, contact your
dealer’s service department.

Capacities and Specifications
The following approximate capacities are given in
English and metric conversions. Please refer to
“Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index for
more information.

6-66

Engine Code 1 (L67) 3.8L V6 SFI
Automatic Transaxle
Drain and Refill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.4 quarts (7.0 L)
After Complete Overhaul . . . . . 10.0 quarts (9.5 L)
After performing either transaxle procedure, check
fluid level when done. More fluid may be needed.
Belt Tensions
Automatically controlled by a Self-Tension idler
pulley. Tension adjustment should never be necessary.
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.0 quarts (12.3 L)
Engine Crankcase
Oil change with filter change . . . . . 4.5 quarts (4.3 L)
Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18.5 gallons (70.0 L)
Wheel Nut Torque . . . . . . . . . . 100 lb-ft (140 N·m)
Tire Pressure
See Tire-Loading Information label on the rear edge
of the driver’s door.
R-134a Air Conditioning
See refrigerant charge label under the hood.
All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure
to fill to the appropriate level as recommended in
this manual.

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Engine Specifications
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L67
VIN Engine Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V6
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.8L
Horsepower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Firing Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6-5-4-3-2
Thermostat Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . 195_F (91_C)

Air Conditioning Refrigerants
Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the
air conditioning system in your vehicle needs
refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If
you’re not sure, ask your dealer.

Normal Maintenance
Replacement Parts
Air Cleaner Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC Type A-1096C
Engine Oil Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC Type PF-47
Fuel Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC Type GF-627
Radiator Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RC27
Spark Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC Type 41-921*
Gap 0.060 inch (1.52 mm)
*Replaces original spark plug NGK Type PTR4B-15.
Windshield Wiper Blades
Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.32 pin
Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 inches (56 cm)

Vehicle Dimensions
Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207.2 inches (526.3 cm)
Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75.0 inches (190.5 cm)
Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55.2 inches (140.0 cm)
Wheelbase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113.8 inches (289.1 cm)
Front Tread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62.5 inches (158.8 cm)
Rear Tread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62.6 inches (159.0 cm)

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Supercharged Engine Accessory Belt (L67)

1. Front Belt

The Supercharged 3800 V6 engine uses two accessory
drive belts. One belt drives the generator, power steering
pump, coolant pump and air conditioning compressor.
The second belt drives the supercharger. Each belt has
its own tensioner and idler pulley.

2. Back Belt
A. Generator
B. Power Steering
C. Crank
D. Supercharger
E. Coolant Pump
F. Air Conditioning

6-68

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✍

NOTES

6-69

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✍

6-70

NOTES

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Section 7 Maintenance Schedule
This section covers the maintenance required for your vehicle. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety,
dependability and emission control performance.
7-2
7-2
7-4
7-7
7-22

Introduction
How this Section is Organized
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services
Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance

7-31
7-35
7-36
7-38

Part B: Owner Checks and Services
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Part E: Maintenance Record

7-1

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Introduction
Your Vehicle and the Environment
Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your
vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the
environment. All recommended maintenance procedures
are important. Improper vehicle maintenance can even
affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid
levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level
of emissions from your vehicle. To help protect our
environment, and to keep your vehicle in good
condition, please maintain your vehicle properly.

How This Section is Organized
This maintenance schedule is divided into five parts:
Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan
supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your
Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet, or your dealer
for details.

7-2

“Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows
what to have done and how often. Some of these
services can be complex, so unless you are technically
qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should
let your dealer’s service department or another qualified
service center do these jobs.

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CAUTION:
Performing maintenance work on a vehicle can
be dangerous. In trying to do some jobs, you can
be seriously injured. Do your own maintenance
work only if you have the required know-how
and the proper tools and equipment for the job.
If you have any doubt, have a qualified
technician do the work.
If you are skilled enough to do some work on your
vehicle, you will probably want to get the service
information. See “Service and Owner Publications” in
the Index.
“Part B: Owner Checks and Services” tells you
what should be checked and when. It also explains
what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in
good condition.

“Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections”
explains important inspections that your dealer’s
service department or another qualified service
center should perform.
“Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants”
lists some recommended products to help keep your
vehicle properly maintained. These products, or their
equivalents, should be used whether you do the work
yourself or have it done.
“Part E: Maintenance Record” provides a place for
you to record the maintenance performed on your
vehicle. Whenever any maintenance is performed, be
sure to write it down in this part. This will help you
determine when your next maintenance should be done.
In addition, it is a good idea to keep your maintenance
receipts. They may be needed to qualify your vehicle for
warranty repairs.

7-3

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Part A: Scheduled Maintenance
Services
Using Your Maintenance Schedule

The proper fluids and lubricants to use are listed in Part
D. Make sure whoever services your vehicle uses these.
All parts should be replaced and all necessary repairs
done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle.

We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle
in good working condition. But we don’t know exactly
how you’ll drive it. You may drive very short distances
only a few times a week. Or you may drive long distances
all the time in very hot, dusty weather. You may use your
vehicle in making deliveries. Or you may drive it to work,
to do errands or in many other ways.

These schedules are for vehicles that:

Because of all the different ways people use their
vehicles, maintenance needs vary. You may need more
frequent checks and replacements. So please read the
following and note how you drive. If you have any
questions on how to keep your vehicle in good
condition, see your dealer.

D use the recommended fuel. See “Fuel” in the Index.

This part tells you the maintenance services you should
have done and when you should schedule them. If you
go to your dealer for your service needs, you’ll know
that GM-trained and supported service people will
perform the work using genuine GM parts.

7-4

D carry passengers and cargo within recommended

limits. You will find these limits on your vehicle’s
Tire-Loading Information label. See “Loading Your
Vehicle” in the Index.

D are driven on reasonable road surfaces within legal
driving limits.

Selecting the Right Schedule
First you’ll need to decide which of the two schedules is
right for your vehicle. Here’s how to decide which
schedule to follow:

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Scheduled Maintenance
Short Trip/City Definition
Follow the Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance if
any one of these conditions is true for your vehicle:

D Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km).
This is particularly important when outside
temperatures are below freezing.

D Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent
driving in stop-and-go traffic).
D Most trips are through dusty areas.
D You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of
your vehicle.

D If the vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxi
or other commercial application.

One of the reasons you should follow this schedule
if you operate your vehicle under any of these
conditions is that these conditions cause engine
oil to break down sooner.

Short Trip/City Intervals
Every 3,000 Miles (5 000 km): Engine Oil and Filter
Change (or 3 months, whichever occurs first).
Every 6,000 Miles (10 000 km): Chassis Lubrication
(or 6 months, whichever occurs first). Tire Rotation.
Every 15,000 Miles (25 000 km): Air Cleaner Filter
Inspection, if driving in dusty conditions.
Every 30,000 Miles (50 000 km): Air Cleaner Filter
Replacement. Fuel Tank, Cap and Lines Inspection.
Supercharger Oil Check (or every 36 months,
whichever occurs first) (3800 Code 1 V6 engine only).
Every 50,000 Miles (83 000 km): Automatic Transaxle
Service (severe conditions only).
Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Engine Accessory
Drive Belt Inspection.
Every 100,000 Miles (166 000 km): Spark Plug Wire
Inspection. Spark Plug Replacement. Automatic
Transaxle Service (normal conditions).
Every 150,000 Miles (240 000 km): Cooling System
Service (or every 60 months, whichever occurs first).
These intervals only summarize maintenance services.
Be sure to follow the complete scheduled maintenance
on the following pages.

7-5

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Scheduled Maintenance
Long Trip/Highway Definition
Follow this scheduled maintenance only if none of the
conditions from the Short Trip/City Scheduled
Maintenance is true. Do not use this schedule if the
vehicle is used for trailer towing, driven in a dusty area
or used off paved roads. Use the Short Trip/City
schedule for these conditions.
Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed engine under
highway conditions causes engine oil to break
down slower.

Long Trip/Highway Intervals
Every 7,500 Miles (12 500 km): Engine Oil and Filter
Change (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
Chassis Lubrication (or every 12 months, whichever
occurs first). Tire Rotation.
Every 30,000 Miles (50 000 km): Supercharger Oil
Check (or every 36 months, whichever occurs first)
(3800 Code 1 V6 engine only). Air Cleaner Filter
Replacement. Fuel Tank, Cap and Lines Inspection.
Every 50,000 Miles (83 000 km): Automatic Transaxle
Service (severe conditions only).
Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Engine Accessory
Drive Belt Inspection.
Every 100,000 Miles (166 000 km): Spark Plug Wire
Inspection. Spark Plug Replacement. Automatic
Transaxle Service (normal conditions).
Every 150,000 Miles (240 000 km): Cooling System
Service (or every 60 months, whichever occurs first).
These intervals only summarize maintenance services.
Be sure to follow the complete scheduled maintenance
on the following pages.

7-6

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles
(166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles
(166 000 km) at the same intervals. The services shown
at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be performed at
the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km).
See “Owner Checks and Services” and “Periodic
Maintenance Inspections” following.

# Lubricate the transaxle shift linkage, parking
brake cable guides and the underbody contact points
and linkage.
+ A good time to check your brakes is during tire
rotation. See “Brake System Inspection” under “Periodic
Maintenance Inspections” in Part C of this schedule.

Footnotes
[ The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the
California Air Resources Board has determined that the
failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify
the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to the
completion of the vehicle’s useful life. We, however,
urge that all recommended maintenance services be
performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance
be recorded.

7-7

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
3,000 Miles (5 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

6,000 Miles (10 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

9,000 Miles (15 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

12,000 Miles (20 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

7-8

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance

j Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)
j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper
rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

15,000 Miles (25 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions.

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

Replace filter if necessary.
An Emission Control Service. (See footnote[.)

18,000 Miles (30 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)
j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper
rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

7-9

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
21,000 Miles (35 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

24,000 Miles (40 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

27,000 Miles (45 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

7-10

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
30,000 Miles (50 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)
j Replace air cleaner filter.
An Emission Control Service.
j Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

for any damage. Replace parts as needed.
An Emission Control Service. (See footnote[.)
j For supercharged engines only: Check the supercharger oil level and add oil as
needed (or every 36 months, whichever occurs first). See “Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants” in this section.
An Emission Control Service. (See footnote[.)
j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper
rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

33,000 Miles (55 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

7-11

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
36,000 Miles (60 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

39,000 Miles (65 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

42,000 Miles (70 000 km)

7-12

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
45,000 Miles (75 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions.

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

Replace filter if necessary.
An Emission Control Service. (See footnote[.)

48,000 Miles (80 000 km)

50,000 Miles (83 000 km)

j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter 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.
(Continued)

7-13

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
50,000 Miles (83 000 km) (Continued)
– 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).

51,000 Miles (85 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

54,000 Miles (90 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

57,000 Miles (95 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

7-14

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
60,000 Miles (100 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)
j Inspect engine accessory drive belt.
An Emission Control Service.
j Replace air cleaner filter.
An Emission Control Service.
j Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

7-15

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
63,000 Miles (105 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

66,000 Miles (110 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

69,000 Miles (115 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

72,000 Miles (120 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

7-16

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance

75,000 Miles (125 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

necessary. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote[.)

78,000 Miles (130 000 km)

7-17

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
81,000 Miles (135 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

84,000 Miles (140 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

87,000 Miles (145 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

90,000 Miles (150 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)

7-18

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance

j Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service.
j Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket

93,000 Miles (155 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

96,000 Miles (160 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

(Continued)

7-19

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
96,000 Miles (160 000 km) (Continued)
Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)
Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper
rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

j
j

99,000 Miles (165 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

100,000 Miles (166 000 km)

j Inspect spark plug wires.
An Emission Control Service.
j Replace spark plugs.
An Emission Control Service.
j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter 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.

7-20

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

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Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance

– In hilly or mountainous terrain.
– When doing frequent trailer towing.
– Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
If you haven’t used your vehicle under severe service conditions listed
previously and, therefore, haven’t changed your automatic transaxle fluid,
change both the fluid and filter.

150,000 Miles (240 000 km)

j Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 60 months since last service,
whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for what to use.
Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck.
Pressure test cooling system and pressure cap.
An Emission Control Service.

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

7-21

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance
The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles
(166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles
(166 000 km) at the same intervals. The services shown
at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be performed at
the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km).
See “Owner Checks and Services” and “Periodic
Maintenance Inspections” following.

7-22

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance
7,500 Miles (12 500 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

15,000 Miles (25 000 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.
j Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)
j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper
rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

22,500 Miles (37 500 km)

7-23

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance
30,000 Miles (50 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

37,500 Miles (62 500 km)

j Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
An Emission Control Service.

7-24

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance

j Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
(See footnote #.)
j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper
rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

45,000 Miles (75 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

50,000 Miles (83 000 km)

j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter 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.
(Continued)

7-25

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance
50,000 Miles (83 000 km) (Continued)
– 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 (166 000 km).

52,500 Miles (87 500 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

60,000 Miles (100 000 km)

7-26

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance

j For supercharged engines only: Check the supercharger oil level and add oil as
j
j
j
j

needed (or every 36 months, whichever occurs first). See “Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants” in this section.
An Emission Control Service. (See footnote[.)
Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper
rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)
Inspect engine accessory drive belt.
An Emission Control Service.
Replace air cleaner filter.
An Emission Control Service.
Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket
for any damage. Replace parts as needed.
An Emission Control Service. (See footnote[.)

67,500 Miles (112 500 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

7-27

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance
75,000 Miles (125 000 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.)

82,500 Miles (137 500 km)

90,000 Miles (150 000 km)

7-28

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance

j Replace air cleaner filter.
An Emission Control Service.
j Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket

97,500 Miles (162 500 km)

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

7-29

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Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance
100,000 Miles (166 000 km)

j Inspect spark plug wires.
An Emission Control Service.
j Replace spark plugs.
An Emission Control Service.
j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

DATE
ACTUAL
MILEAGE

SERVICED BY:

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.
j If you haven’t used your vehicle under severe service conditions listed
previously and, therefore, haven’t changed your automatic transaxle fluid,
change both the fluid and filter.

150,000 Miles (240 000 km)
j Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 60 months since last service,
whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for what to use.
Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck.
Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap.
An Emission Control Service.

7-30

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Part B: Owner Checks and Services

Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check

Listed in this part are owner checks and services which
should be performed at the intervals specified to help
ensure the safety, dependability and emission control
performance of your vehicle.

Check the windshield washer fluid level in the
windshield washer tank and add the proper fluid if
necessary. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index
for further details.

Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your
vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown in
Part D.

At Least Once a Month

At Each Fuel Fill
It is important for you or a service station attendant to
perform these underhood checks at each fuel fill.

Tire Inflation Check
Make sure tires are inflated to the correct pressures.
See “Tires” in the Index for further details.
Cassette Deck Service

Engine Oil Level Check

Clean cassette deck. Cleaning should be done every
50 hours of tape play. See “Audio Systems” in the Index
for further details.

Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if
necessary. See “Engine Oil” in the Index for
further details.

Power Antenna Service

Engine Coolant Level Check

Clean power antenna mast. See “Audio Systems” in the
Index for further details.

Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOLR
coolant mixture if necessary. See “Engine Coolant” in
the Index for further details.

7-31

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At Least Twice a Year
Restraint System Check
Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are
working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged
safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might
keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it
repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced.

Automatic Transaxle Check
Check the transaxle fluid level; add if needed. See
“Automatic Transaxle Fluid” in the Index. A fluid
loss may indicate a problem. Check the system and
repair if needed.

At Least Once a Year
Key Lock Cylinders Service

Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings,
and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system
does not need regular maintenance.)

Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant
specified in Part D.

Wiper Blade Check

Lubricate all body door hinges. Also lubricate all
hinges and latches, including those for the hood,
glove box door, console door and any folding seat
hardware. Part D tells you what to use. More frequent
lubrication may be required when exposed to a
corrosive environment.

Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade
inserts that appear worn or damaged or that streak or
miss areas of the windshield. Also see “Wiper Blades,
Cleaning” in the Index.
Weatherstrip Lubrication
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold,
damp weather more frequent application may be
required. (See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in
the Index.)

7-32

Body Lubrication Service

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Starter Switch Check

CAUTION:
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be
injured. Follow the steps below.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake (see “Parking
Brake” in the Index if necessary) and the
regular brake.
NOTE: Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be
ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The starter
should work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If
the starter works in any other position, your vehicle
needs service.

Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI) Check

CAUTION:
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be
injured. Follow the steps below.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
around the vehicle. It should be parked on a
level surface.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake (see “Parking Brake”
in the Index if necessary).
NOTE: Be ready to apply the regular brake
immediately if the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the key to the RUN
position, but don’t start the engine. Without
applying the regular brake, try to move the shift
lever out of PARK (P) with normal effort. If the shift
lever moves out of PARK (P), your vehicle’s BTSI
needs service.

7-33

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Ignition Transaxle Lock Check
While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn
the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position.

D The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift
lever is in PARK (P).

D The key should come out only in LOCK.
Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P)
Mechanism Check

CAUTION:
When you are doing this check, your vehicle
could begin to move. You or others could be
injured and property could be damaged. Make
sure there is room in front of your vehicle in case
it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular
brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.

7-34

Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing
downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the
parking brake.

D To check the parking brake’s holding ability: With

the engine running and transaxle in NEUTRAL (N),
slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake
pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking
brake only.

D To check the PARK (P) mechanism’s holding ability:
With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Then
release all brakes.

Underbody Flushing Service
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any
corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to
clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debris
can collect.

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Part C: Periodic
Maintenance Inspections
Listed in this part are inspections and services which
should be performed at least twice a year (for instance,
each spring and fall). You should let your dealer’s service
department or other qualified service center do these jobs.
Make sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Proper procedures to perform these services may be
found in a service manual. See “Service and Owner
Publications” in the Index.

Steering, Suspension and Front Drive Axle
Boot and Seal Inspection
Inspect the front and rear suspension and steering
system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs of
wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steering
lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc. Clean and then inspect the drive
axle boot seals for damage, tears or leakage. Replace
seals if necessary.

Exhaust System Inspection
Inspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the body near
the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, missing or
out-of-position parts as well as open seams, holes, loose

connections or other conditions which could cause a heat
build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into
the vehicle. See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Engine Cooling System Inspection
Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are
cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings
and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside of the
radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help ensure
proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and
pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.

Throttle System Inspection
Inspect the throttle system for interference or binding,
and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as
needed. Replace any components that have high effort
or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and
cruise control cables.

Brake System Inspection
Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and
hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors
for surface condition. Inspect other brake parts,
including calipers, parking brake, etc. You may need to
have your brakes inspected more often if your driving
habits or conditions result in frequent braking.

7-35

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Part D: Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants
NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by
name, part number or specification may be obtained
from your dealer.
USAGE

FLUID/LUBRICANT

Engine Oil

Engine Oil with the American
Petroleum Institute Certified For
Gasoline Engines “Starburst”
symbol of the proper viscosity. To
determine the preferred viscosity
for your vehicle’s engine, see
“Engine Oil” in the Index.

Engine Coolant

7-36

50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only GM
GoodwrenchR DEX-COOLR or
HavolineR DEX-COOLR
Coolant. See “Engine Coolant” in
the Index.

USAGE
Hydraulic Brake
System
Windshield
Washer Solvent

FLUID/LUBRICANT

Delco Supreme 11R Brake Fluid
(GM Part No. 12377967 or
equivalent DOT-3 Brake Fluid).
GM OptikleenR Washer
Solvent (GM Part No. 1051515)
or equivalent.

Parking Brake
Cable Guides

Chassis Lubricant (GM Part
No. 12377985 or equivalent) or
lubricant meeting requirements
of NLGI # 2, Category LB
or GC-LB.

Power Steering
System

GM Power Steering Fluid (GM
Part No. 1052884 - 1 pint,
1050017 - 1 quart, or equivalent).

Automatic
Transaxle

DEXRONR-III Automatic
Transmission Fluid.

Key Lock
Cylinders

Multi-Purpose Lubricant,
SuperlubeR (GM Part
No. 12346241 or equivalent).

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USAGE

FLUID/LUBRICANT

USAGE

FLUID/LUBRICANT

Supercharger

Supercharger Oil (GM Part
No. 12345982). See “Supercharger
Oil” in the Index.

Hood and Door
Hinges

Multi-Purpose Lubricant,
SuperlubeR (GM Part
No. 12346241 or equivalent).

Chassis
Lubrication

Chassis Lubricant (GM Part
No. 12377985 or equivalent) or
lubricant meeting requirements
of NLGI # 2, Category LB
or GC-LB.

Glove Box Door, Multi-Purpose Lubricant,
Console Door
SuperlubeR (GM Part
and Folding Seat No. 12346241 or equivalent).
Hardware

Hood Latch
Assembly,
Secondary Latch,
Pivots, Spring
Anchor and
Release Pawl

LubriplateR Lubricant Aerosol
(GM Part No. 12346293 or
equivalent) or lubricant meeting
requirements of NLGI # 2,
Category LB or GC-LB.

Weatherstrip
Conditioning

Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM
Part No. 12345579 or equivalent).

7-37

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Part E: Maintenance Record
After the scheduled services are performed, record the
date, odometer reading and who performed the service
in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval.

Any additional information from “Owner Checks and
Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on
the following record pages. Also, you should retain all
maintenance receipts. Your owner information portfolio
is a convenient place to store them.

Maintenance Record
DATE

7-38

ODOMETER
READING

SERVICED BY

MAINTENANCE PERFORMED

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Maintenance Record
DATE

ODOMETER
READING

SERVICED BY

MAINTENANCE PERFORMED

7-39

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Maintenance Record
DATE

7-40

ODOMETER
READING

SERVICED BY

MAINTENANCE PERFORMED

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Maintenance Record
DATE

ODOMETER
READING

SERVICED BY

MAINTENANCE PERFORMED

7-41

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Maintenance Record
DATE

7-42

ODOMETER
READING

SERVICED BY

MAINTENANCE PERFORMED

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Section 8 Customer Assistance Information
Here you will find out how to contact Buick if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service
publications and how to report any safety defects.
8-2
8-4
8-4
8-5
8-6
8-6
8-7

Customer Satisfaction Procedure
Customer Assistance for Text
Telephone (TTY) Users
Customer Assistance Offices
GM Mobility Program for Persons
with Disabilities
Roadside Assistance
Canadian Roadside Assistance
Courtesy Transportation

8-8
8-9
8-9
8-10
8-10

Warranty Information
Reporting Safety Defects to the United
States Government
Reporting Safety Defects to the
Canadian Government
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
Ordering Service and Owner Publications
in Canada

8-1

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Customer Satisfaction Procedure

Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to your
dealer and to Buick. Normally, any concerns with the
sales transaction or the operation of your vehicle will be
resolved by your dealer’s sales or service departments.
Sometimes, however, despite the best intentions of all
concerned, misunderstandings can occur. If your
concern has not been resolved to your satisfaction, the
following steps should be taken:
STEP ONE -- Discuss your concern with a member of
dealership management. Normally, concerns can be
quickly resolved at that level. If the matter has already
been reviewed with the sales, service or parts manager,
contact the owner of the dealership or the
general manager.

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STEP TWO -- If after contacting a member of
dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be
resolved by the dealership without further help, contact
the Buick Customer Relations Center by calling
1-800-521-7300. In Canada, contact GM of Canada
Customer Communication Centre in Oshawa by calling
1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
We encourage you to call the toll-free number in order
to give your inquiry prompt attention. Please have the
following information available to give the Customer
Assistance Representative:

D Vehicle Identification Number (This is available

from the vehicle registration or title, or the plate
at the top left of the instrument panel and visible
through the windshield.)

When contacting Buick, please remember that your
concern will likely be resolved at a dealer’s facility. That
is why we suggest you follow Step One first if you have
a concern.
STEP THREE -- Both General Motors and your dealer
are committed to making sure you are completely
satisfied with your new vehicle. However, if you
continue to remain unsatisfied after following the
procedure outlined in Steps One and Two, you must file
with the GM/BBB Auto Line Program to enforce any
additional rights you may have. Canadian owners refer
to your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information
booklet for information on the Canadian Motor Vehicle
Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP).

D Dealership name and location
D Vehicle delivery date and present mileage

8-3

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The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court program
administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus to
settle automotive disputes regarding vehicle repairs or the
interpretation of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Although you are required to resort to this informal dispute
resolution program prior to filing any court action, use of
the program is free of charge and your case will generally
be heard within 40 days. If you do not agree with the
decision given in your case, you may reject it and proceed
with any other venue for relief available to you.
You may contact the BBB using the toll-free telephone
number or write them at the following address:
BBB Auto Line
Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.
4200 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 800
Arlington, VA 22203-1804
Telephone: 1-800-955-5100
This program is available in all 50 states and the District
of Columbia. Eligibility is limited by vehicle age,
mileage and other factors. General Motors reserves the
right to change eligibility limitations and/or discontinue
its participation in this program.

8-4

Customer Assistance for Text
Telephone (TTY) Users
To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or
speech-impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs),
Buick has TTY equipment available at its Customer
Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with
Buick by dialing: 1-800-83-BUICK. (TTY users in
Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.)

Customer Assistance Offices
Buick encourages customers to call the toll-free number
for assistance. If a U.S. customer wishes to write to Buick,
the letter should be addressed to Buick’s Customer
Relations Center.

United States
Buick Customer Relations Center
P.O. Box 5039
Troy, MI 48007-5039
1-800-521-7300
1-800-832-8425 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs))
Roadside Assistance: 1-800-252-1112

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Canada
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
1-800-263-3777 (English)
1-800-263-7854 (French)
1-800-263-3830 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs))
Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800

All Overseas Locations
GMODC - Customer Communication Centre
169-007
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Telephone: 905-644-4112
Fax:
905-644-4866

Caribbean Numbers
1-800-496-9992 (English) Puerto Rico
1-800-496-9993 (Spanish) Puerto Rico
1-800-751-4135 (English) Dominican Republic
1-800-751-4136 (Spanish) Dominican Republic
1-800-496-9994 U.S. Virgin Islands
1-800-389-0009 Bahamas
1-800-534-0122 Bermuda, Barbados, Antigua & B.V.I.

If toll-free service is not available in the Caribbean,
call Puerto Rico 1-787-763-1315.

GM Mobility Program for Persons
with Disabilities
This program, available to
qualified applicants, can
reimburse you up to $1,000
toward aftermarket driver or
passenger adaptive
equipment you may require
for your vehicle (hand
controls, wheelchair/scooter
lifts, etc.).
This program can also provide you with free resource
information, such as area driver assessment centers and
mobility equipment installers. The program is available
for a limited period of time from the date of vehicle
purchase/lease. See your dealer for more details or call
the GM Mobility Assistance Center at 1-800-323-9935.
Text Telephone (TTY) users, call 1-800-833-9935.
GM of Canada also has a Mobility Program. Call
1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483) for details. TTY users
call 1-800-263-3830. When calling from the United
States, please dial 1-905-644-3063.

8-5

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Roadside Assistance

Our commitment to Buick owners has always included
superior service through our network of over 2,800 Buick
dealers. Buick Premium Roadside Assistance provides an
extra measure of convenience and security.
BUICK PREMIUM ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE:

D Provides owners with access to minor repairs or

towing for disabled vehicles. Although Roadside
Assistance is not a repair facility, it is a means of
assisting customers in an emergency situation.

D Takes the anxiety out of uncertain situations by

providing easy access to service professionals trained
to work with Buick owners, 24 hours a day, 365 days
a year, including weekends and holidays.

Buick Motor Division is proud to offer Buick Premium
Roadside Assistance to customers for vehicles covered
under the 3 year/36,000 mile (60 000 km) new car
warranty (whichever occurs first).

8-6

For details on Buick Premium Roadside Assistance,
please consult your Buick Premium Roadside Assistance
owner booklet included with your owner’s manual. For
needed assistance, call the Buick Premium Roadside
Assistance toll-free hotline: 1-800-252-1112.

Canadian Roadside Assistance
Vehicles purchased in Canada have an extensive
Roadside Assistance program accessible from anywhere
in Canada or the United States. Please refer to the
separate brochure provided by the dealer or call
1-800-268-6800 for emergency services.

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Courtesy Transportation
Buick has always exemplified quality and value in its
offering of motor vehicles. To enhance your ownership
experience, we and our participating dealerships are
proud to offer Courtesy Transportation, a customer
support program for new vehicles.
The Courtesy Transportation program is offered to retail
purchase/lease customers in conjunction with the
Bumper to Bumper coverage provided by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty. Several transportation
options are available when warranty repairs are
required. This will reduce your inconvenience during
warranty repairs.

Plan Ahead When Possible
When your vehicle requires warranty service, you
should contact your dealer and request an appointment.
By scheduling a service appointment and advising your
service consultant of your transportation needs, your
dealer can help minimize your inconvenience. If it is
determined that your vehicle cannot be scheduled into
the service department immediately and is still
operative, you are encouraged to drive the vehicle until
scheduling can be accomplished.

If the dealer requests that you simply drop the vehicle
off for service, you are urged to do so as early in the
work day as possible to allow for same day repair.

Transportation Options
Warranty service can generally be completed while you
wait. However, if you are unable to wait Buick helps
minimize your inconvenience by providing several
transportation options. Depending on the circumstances,
your dealer can offer you one of the following:
Shuttle Service
Participating dealerships can provide you with shuttle
service to get you to your destination with minimal
interruption of your daily schedule. This includes a one
way shuttle ride to a destination up to 10 miles from
the dealership.
Public Transportation or Fuel Reimbursement
If your vehicle requires overnight warranty repairs,
reimbursement up to $30 per day (five days maximum)
may be available for the use of public transportation such
as taxi or bus. In addition, should you arrange
transportation through a friend or relative, reimbursement
for reasonable fuel expenses up to $10 per day (five day
maximum) may be available. Claim amounts should
reflect actual costs and be supported by original receipts.

8-7

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Courtesy Rental Vehicle
When your vehicle is unavailable due to overnight
warranty repairs, your dealer may arrange to provide you
with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental
vehicle you obtained, at actual cost, up to a maximum of
$30.00 per day supported by receipts. This requires that
you sign and complete a rental agreement and meet state,
local and rental vehicle provider requirements.
Requirements vary and may include minimum age
requirements, insurance coverage, credit card, etc. You are
responsible for fuel usage charges and may also be
responsible for taxes, levies, usage fees, excessive mileage
or rental usage beyond the completion of the repair.
Generally it is not possible to provide a like-vehicle as a
courtesy rental.

Additional Program Information
Courtesy Transportation is available during the
Bumper-to-Bumper warranty coverage period, but it is not
part of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. A separate
booklet entitled “Warranty and Owner Assistance
Information” furnished with each new vehicle provides
detailed warranty coverage information.
Courtesy Transportation is available only at
participating dealerships and all program options, such
as shuttle service, may not be available at every dealer.

8-8

Please contact your dealer for specific information about
availability. All Courtesy Transportation arrangements
will be administered by appropriate dealer personnel.
Canadian Vehicles: For warranty repairs during the
Complete Vehicle Coverage period of the General
Motors of Canada New Vehicle Limited Warranty,
alternative transportation may be available under the
Courtesy Transportation Program. Please consult your
dealer for details.
General Motors reserves the right to unilaterally modify,
change or discontinue Courtesy Transportation at any
time and to resolve all questions of claim eligibility
pursuant to the terms and conditions described herein at
its sole discretion.
General Motors and participating dealerships reserve
the right to deny a rental vehicle to anyone not
possessing a valid motor vehicle operators license in
their name, anyone who is under the influence of alcohol
or drugs, or anyone whose mental or physical abilities
are impaired so as to be unable to operate a motor
vehicle safely.

Warranty Information
Your vehicle comes with a separate warranty booklet
that contains detailed warranty information.

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REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
TO THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
TO THE CANADIAN
GOVERNMENT

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could
cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to
notifying General Motors.

If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle
has a safety defect, you should immediately notify
Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General
Motors of Canada Limited. You may write to:

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an
investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in
a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy
campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved
in individual problems between you, your dealer or
General Motors.

Transport Canada
330 Sparks Street
Tower C
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety
Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in the
Washington, D.C. area) or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation
Washington, D.C. 20590
You can also obtain other information about motor
vehicle safety from the hotline.

8-9

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REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
TO GENERAL MOTORS

Ordering Service and Owner
Publications in Canada

In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada)
in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notify
us. Please call us at 1-800-521-7300, or write:

Service manuals, owner’s manuals and other service
literature are available for purchase for all current and
past model General Motors vehicles.

Buick Customer Relations Center
P.O. Box 5039
Troy, MI 48007-5039
In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English)
or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

8-10

The toll-free telephone number for ordering information
in Canada is 1-800-668-5539.

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1999 BUICK SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION
The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out
the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order,
or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.)
CURRENT PUBLICATIONS FOR 1999 BUICK
SERVICE MANUALS
Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information
on engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes,
electrical, steering, body, etc.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $90.00

OWNER’S INFORMATION
Owner publications are written directly for Owners and
intended to provide basic operational information about the
vehicle. The owner’s manual will include the Maintenance
Schedule for all models.

TRANSMISSION, TRANSAXLE, TRANSFER CASE
UNIT REPAIR MANUAL
This manual provides information on unit repair service
procedures, adjustments and specifications for the
1999 GM transmissions, transaxles and transfer cases.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $50.00

In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner’s Manual and
Warranty Booklet.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $15.00

SERVICE BULLETINS
Service Bulletins give technical service information needed
to knowledgeably service General Motors cars and trucks.
Each bulletin contains instructions to assist in the
diagnosis and service of your vehicle.
PLEASE COMPLETE THE ORDER FORM SHOWN ON
THE FOLLOWING PAGE AND MAIL TO:
Helm, Incorporated S P.O. Box 07130 S Detroit, MI 48207

Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $10.00
CURRENT & PAST MODEL ORDER FORMS
Service Publications are available for current and past
model GM vehicles. To request an order form, please
specify year and model name of the vehicle.

OR ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Eastern Time
For Credit Card Orders Only (VISA–MasterCard–Discover)

8-11

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ORDER TOLL FREE
(NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only)

1-800-551-4123
(Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST)
FAX Orders Only 1-313-865-5927

1
9
9
9

PUBLICATION FORM
NUMBER

Orders will be mailed within 10 days of receipt. Please allow adequate time for postal
service. If further information is needed, write to the address shown below or call
1-800-551-4123. Material cannot be returned for credit without packing slip with return
information within 30 days of delivery. On returns, a re-stocking fee may be applied
against the original order.

ITEM DESCRIPTION

VEHICLE MODEL
NAME

YEAR

QTY.

PRICE
EACH*

Service Manual
Car & Light Truck
Transmission Unit Repair

1999

$90.00

1999

$50.00

Owner’s Manual In Portfolio

1999

$15.00

Owner’s Manual Without Portfolio

1999

$10.00

TOTAL
PRICE

G
M
S
H
I
P
T
O

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the
name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent.
Mail completed order form to:
HELM, INCORPORATED S P.O. Box 07130 S Detroit, MI 48207
For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the above address for quotation.

(CUSTOMER’S NAME)

(ATTENTION)

(STREET ADDRESS—NO P.O. BOX NUMBERS)

(CITY)

(STATE)

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO.

(ZIP CODE)

(

)

AREA CODE

GM-BUI-ORD99

8-12

*(Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring
obligation. Allow ample time for delivery.)

P
A
Y
M
E
N
T

Check or Money
Order payable to
Helm, Inc. (USA funds
only — do not send cash.)

TOTAL MATERIAL
Michigan Purchasers
add 6% sales tax
U.S. Order Processing

MasterCard
VISA

$5.00

Canadian Postage
(See Note Below)

GRAND TOTAL

Discover
Account
Number:
Expiration
Date mo/yr:

Check here if your billing address
is different from your shipping
address shown.

CUSTOMER SIGNATURE

Note to Canadian Customers: All listed prices are quoted in U.S. funds. Canadian residents
are to make checks payable in U.S. funds. To cover Canadian postage, add $11.50 plus the
U.S. order processing.

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Section 9 Index
A

ccessory Power Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
Air Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
How Does it Restrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
How it Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23, 2-69
Servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
What Makes it Inflate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
What Will You See After it Inflates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
When Should it Inflate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15
Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Air Conditioning Refrigerants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Air Control, Climate Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3, 3-4
Alarm, Universal Theft-Deterrent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Alignment and Balance, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-45
Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Antenna, Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
Antifreeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-21
Anti-Lock
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Brake System Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-71, 4-7
Anti-Theft, Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-47
Appearance Care Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-55

Arbitration Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3, 8-4
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57
Assist Handles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-59
Astroroof (Sunroof) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-59
Audio Equipment, Adding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Audio Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Audio Systems, Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Automatic Dimming Outside Rearview Mirror . . . . . . . . 2-51
Automatic Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24
Park Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34

Back-Up Lamp Bulb Replacement

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-29
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Replacement, Remote Keyless Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Rundown Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-45
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-69
Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3, 5-5
BBB Auto Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3, 8-4
Belt, Engine Accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-68
Better Business Bureau Mediation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3, 8-4
Blizzard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27

9-1

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Brake
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-28
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-26
Master Cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-26
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
Pedal Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-28
Replacing System Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-29
System Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-70
Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Transaxle Shift Interlock Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33
Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-28
Brake to Shift Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
Brakes, Anti-Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Braking in Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Break-In, New Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Brightness Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
BTSI Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-31
Headlamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-31
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-38
Rear Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35

anadian Roadside Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
Capacities and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-66
Carbon Monoxide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13, 2-32, 4-29, 4-35
Cassette Deck Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31
Cassette Tape Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10, 3-12
Cassette Tape Player Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Cellular Telephone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58

9-2

Center Passenger Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Central Door Unlocking System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Certification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
Chains, Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Chains, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-47
Changing a Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Check Oil Level Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-77
Checking Your Restraint Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-55
Chemical Paint Spotting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-54
Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-39
Securing in a Rear Outside Seat Position . . . . . . . . . . . 1-45
Securing in the Center Rear Seat Position . . . . . . . . . . 1-47
Securing in the Right Front Seat Position . . . . . . . . . . 1-49
Top Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-44
Where to Put . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-43
Chrome-Plated Wheels, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Cigarette Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57
Circuit Breakers and Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-58
Cleaner/Filter, Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15
Cleaning
Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Fabric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-48
Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50
Inside of Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-48
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50
Lamps/Lenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-52
Leather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-49
Outside of Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51
Speaker Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50
Special Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-49

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Stains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-48
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-49
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Windshield and Wiper Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51
Wood Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50
Climate Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Passenger Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Steering Wheel Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Clock, Setting the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Comfort Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Passenger Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Steering Wheel Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Compact Disc
Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10, 3-14
Player Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-56
Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-27
Console Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-55
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Convenience Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57
Convex Outside Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-51
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-21
Heater, Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23
Recovery Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11, 5-13
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Cornering Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42
Courtesy Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Courtesy Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38

Cruise Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
Cupholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-56
Customer Assistance
For Text Telephone Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Customer Satisfaction Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Damage, Finish

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-54
Damage, Sheet Metal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41
Dead Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Defects, Reporting Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Defogger, Rear Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Defogging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Defrosting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Delayed Entry Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Delayed Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Dimensions, Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Door
Ajar Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
Ajar Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Central Unlocking System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Locks, Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Memory Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Driver Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

9-3

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Driving
City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Drunken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Freeway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
In a Blizzard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
In the Rain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
On Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
On Grades While Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37
On Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
On Snow and Ice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Through Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
With a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-36
DRL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41
Drunken Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Dual Automatic ComforTemp Climate Control . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Electrical Equipment, Adding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19, 6-57

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror . . . . . . . . . .
With Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic Level Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessory Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant Level Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9-4

6-57
2-46
2-47
4-32
6-10
6-68
6-15
6-21
2-23
7-31

Coolant Temperature Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-73
Coolant Temperature Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-72
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32, 4-29
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-60
Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-56
Oil Level Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Running While Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Starting Your . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
Supercharged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11
Adding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12
Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-14
Checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-77
Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15
When to Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-14
Exhaust, Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
Exit Lighting, Delayed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Express-Down Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
Fabric Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-48
Fan Button, Climate Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Filling Your Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Filter, Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15
Finish Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-52
Finish Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-54
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Flash-To-Pass Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36
Flat Tire, Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17

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Fluids and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
French Language Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Door Release Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Door Release Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Filling Your Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
In Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Fuse Block, Rear Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-63, 6-64
Fuse Block, Under Rear Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-63, 6-64
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-58

Gages

Engine Coolant Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-73
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
Garage Door Opener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-52, 2-60
Garment Hooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-59
GAWR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-52
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
Guide en Français . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
GVWR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31

alogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-31
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Hazard Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-40
Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-33
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-31

High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36
Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-57
Hearing Impaired, Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Heated Outside Rearview Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-51
Heated Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
High-Beam Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Hitches, Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Hood
Checking Things Under . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
Hydroplaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

Ignition Key Positions

..........................
Ignition Transaxle Lock Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Illuminated Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inflation, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front-Wheel-Drive Axle Boot and Seal . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Throttle System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2-19
7-34
2-43
6-40
2-46
7-35
7-35
7-35
7-35
7-35
7-35
7-35
7-35

9-5

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Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brightness Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2-64
2-43
6-50
2-66
6-59
2-43
6-38

ack, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

ey Lock Cylinders Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
Key Reminder Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Keyless Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Labels

Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
Service Parts Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-56
Tire-Loading Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
Vehicle Identification Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-56
Lamp, Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-45
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-40
Cornering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41
Latches, Seatback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Leaving Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

9-6

Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running . . . . . . . 2-29
License Plate Holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-59
Light Sensor, Twilight Sentinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42
Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57
Lights
Air Bag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23, 2-69
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-71, 4-7
Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-69
Brake System Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-70
Brake to Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
Check Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-77
Cruise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-78
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-72
Hazard Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Low Coolant Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-73
Low Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-79
Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-77
Safety Belt Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9, 2-68
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Service Engine Soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-74
Traction Control System Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-71, 4-9
Washer Fluid Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38
Loading Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Door, Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Ignition Transaxle Lock Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34
Key Lock Cylinder Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
Lockout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

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Memory Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Power Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Low Coolant Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-73
Low Fuel Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-79
Lubricants and Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
Lubrication Service, Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
Lumbar Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Inside Day/Night Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-46
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3, 1-4, 2-9
Parallel Park Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-50
Power Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-50
Visor Vanity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
With Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-47
Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Multifunction Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

MagnasteerR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Net, Convenience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57

Maintenance, Normal Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Maintenance Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-38
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Long Trip/Highway Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Long Trip/Highway Intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Owner Checks and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31
Periodic Maintenance Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-35
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
Short Trip/City Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Short Trip/City Intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Maintenance, Underbody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-54
Maintenance When Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-74
Memory
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Seats and Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3, 1-4, 2-10
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-46
Automatic Dimming Outside Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-51
Convex Outside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-51
Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-46
Heated Outside Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-51

New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Night Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67

Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-67

Odometer, Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-67
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Oil, Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11
Oil Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-77
Oil, Supercharger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17
OnStarR System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
Opener, Garage Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-52, 2-60
Outside Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-46
Overheating Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Owner Checks and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31
Owner Publications, Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11

Paint Spotting, Chemical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-54
Parade Dimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Parallel Park Assist Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-50

9-7

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PARK (P)
Shifting Into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
Shifting Out of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
Parking
At Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
Brake Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34
Lots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Over Things That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
With a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37
Passenger Zone Comfort Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Passing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
PASS-KeyR II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Perimeter Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44
Periodic Maintenance Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-35
Personal Choice Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Power
Accessory Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
Antenna Mast Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
Antenna Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Remote Control Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-50
Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Seatback Recliner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-24
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
Power, Retained Accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
Power Seat
Lumbar Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Memory Seats and Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3, 1-4, 2-10

9-8

Pregnancy, Use of Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Problems on the Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Publications, Service and Owner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11

adiator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Radiator Pressure Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-20
Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
Rain, Driving In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-45
Rear
Outside Seat Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
Safety Belt Comfort Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
Seat Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
Window Defogger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Rear Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-63, 6-64
Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35
Rearview Mirror
Electrochromic Day/Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-46
Inside Day/Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-46
With Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-47
Reclining Front Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
Recovery Tank, Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11, 5-13
Recreational Vehicle Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
Refrigerants, Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Remote
Fuel Door Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Keyless Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Trunk Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Trunk Release Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

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Personal Choice Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Resynchronization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Removing the Rear Seat Cushion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-61
Replacement
Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-66
Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-45
Replacing Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-56
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Restraints
Checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-55
Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-39
Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Replacing Parts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-56
System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
Retained Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
Right Front Passenger Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Roadside Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
Roadside Assistance, Canadian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
Rocking Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-28
Rotation, Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-41

Safety Belts

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 -8
Adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50
Center Passenger Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-36
Driver Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-55
How to Wear Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
Incorrect Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16, 1-53, 1-54

Lap Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Lap-Shoulder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13, 1-30
Larger Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-52
Passenger Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21, 1-28, 1-30
Questions and Answers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Rear Comfort Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
Rear Seat Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
Reminder Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9, 2-68
Replacing After a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-56
Right Front Passenger Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Shoulder Belt Tightness Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Smaller Children and Babies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-36
Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Why They Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Safety Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Safety Defects, Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Safety Warnings and Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Scheduled Maintenance Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
Seat Cushion, Removing the Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-61
Seatback
Latches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Power Recliner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Reclining Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Seats
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Lumbar Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3, 1-4, 2-10
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Restraint Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Securing a Child Restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-45, 1-47, 1-49

9-9

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Security Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Security Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Security System, PASS-KeyR II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Bulletins, Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
Engine Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-74
Manuals, Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
Parts Identification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-56
Publications, Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10, 8-11
Work, Doing Your Own . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Service and Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Service and Owner Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10, 8-11
Service Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
Sheet Metal Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Shifting
Into PARK (P) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
Out of PARK (P) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
Shoulder Belt Tightness Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Signaling Turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35
Skidding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Sound Equipment, Adding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Spare Tire, Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-27
Speaker Covers, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50
Specifications and Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-66
Specifications, Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Speech Impaired, Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-67
SRS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Stains, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-48
Starter Switch Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33
Starting Your Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

9-10

Steam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
In Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
MagnasteerR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Wheel, Tilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
Steering Wheel Touch Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9, 3-17
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-52
Storage, Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-30
Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-28
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
Sunroof (Astroroof) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-59
Supercharged Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Supercharger Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17
Supplemental Restraint System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Symbols, Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v

achometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-67
Taillamp Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35
Tape Player Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Temperature Button, Climate Control System . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Theater Dimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43
Theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Theft-Deterrent Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
THEFTLOCKR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
Thermostat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-21
Tilt Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
Time, Setting the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Tire Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-47
Tire Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30

yellowblue
Tire-Loading Information Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-39
Alignment and Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-45
Buying New . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-43
Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-47
Changing a Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
Compact Spare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-27
Inflation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-40
Inflation Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31
Inspection and Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-41
Loading Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-40
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-45
Traction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-44
Treadwear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-44
Uniform Quality Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-44
Wear Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-42
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-45
When It’s Time for New . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-42
Top Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-44
Torque Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
Torque, Wheel Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-24, 6-66
Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32
Towing, Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
Towing Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Traction
Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Control System Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-71, 4-9

Trailer
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Driving on Grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37
Driving with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-36
Engine Cooling When Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38
Hitches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Maintenance When Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38
Parking on Hills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37
Safety Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Tongue Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-34
Total Weight on Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32
Turn Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33
Transaxle Fluid, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18
Transmitter
Remote Keyless Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Universal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-60
Transportation, Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-67
Trunk
Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Release Lockout, Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Release, Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Security Override . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
TTY Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Turn and Lane Change Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35
Turn Signal Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37
Twilight SentinelR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42

9-11

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nderbody Flushing Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underbody Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Universal Theft-Deterrent System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Universal Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7-34
6-54
2-15
2-60

Vehicle

Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Damage Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-67
Identification Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-56
Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-30
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-55
Ventilation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Visor Vanity Mirrors, Illuminated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
Visors, Sun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58

arning Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
Washer Fluid Low Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38
Washer Fluid, Windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-25
Washing Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51
Weatherstrips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51

9-12

Wheel
Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-45
Nut Torque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-24, 6-66
Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-45
Wrench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
Express-Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
Windshield Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37, 6-25
Fluid Level Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31
Fluid Low Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38
Windshield Wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36
Blade Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
Blade Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-39, 6-67
Cleaning the Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-57
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
Wiper Blades, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51
Wiper Blades, Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51
Wiring, Headlamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-57
Wood Panels, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50
Wrecker Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Wrench, Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.3
Linearized                      : No
XMP Toolkit                     : Adobe XMP Core 5.5-c021 79.153613, 2013/07/11-05:21:54
Extracted                       : 2014:10:17 11:24:17.439-05:00
Sha 1                           : 9b2279ea78eec74ae9674c8d2ebf9793138f0fe4
Size                            : 2897510
Format                          : application/pdf
Modified                        : 2014:10:26 07:13:54.649-04:00
Subject                         : null
Title                           : Owner's Manual
Metadata Date                   : 1998:10:01 11:09:18.000-05:00
Modify Date                     : 1998:10:01 11:09:18.000-05:00
Create Date                     : 1998:06:26 06:27:23.000-05:00
Producer                        : Acrobat Distiller Command 3.0 for Solaris 2.3 and later (SPARC)
Tags                            : OwnerCenter:GMNA/asset_type/owner_manual, OwnerCenter:GMNA/1999/buick/riviera
Page Count                      : 368

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

Buick Owner's Manual 1999 Riviera Owners

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