Buick 1993 Riviera Owners Manual Owner's

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The 1993 Buick Riviera
Owner's Manual
Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 25604740 A First Edition

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1992
All Rights Reserved

We support voluntary
technician certification.

GENERALMOTORS,GMandtheGMEmblem,
BUICK,
and
the
BUICK
Emblem
are
registered
of
General
Motors Corporation.
trademarks

WE SUPPORT
VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN
CERTIFEA~NTHROUOH
Nmoonal Instltute for

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer
FrenchLanguageManual:
, 4,
.

3Sk

Aux nronriCtaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer
un exemplaire de ce guideenfranGaischezvotre
Please keepthis manual in your Buick,
so it will be there if concessionaire ou i DGN Marketing Services Ltd., 1500
you ever needit when you're on the road. If you sell the
Bonhill Rd., Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7.
vehicle, please leave this manual
in it so the new owner can
use it.

At the 1905, New York
Auto Show, Durant took
orders for 1,000 Buicks
before the company had
built 40. On Buick's
success, Durant created a
holding company,
September 16, 1908. He
called it General Motors.
'

Walter Murr and Thomas Buick

William C . (Billy)Durant

A high-compression V-8 engine was introduced in 1953.
And Buick’sfamousverticalpillar“toothy”grille
othermilitaryhardware.Thispost-warperiodbrought
great styling and engineering changes which resulted in (introduced
in 1942), became more massive in the
increased
sales.
The
torque
converter
automatic
post-war
era.
transmission, Dynaflow, was introduced in the 1948
Roadmaster. Buick’s famous “portholes” came along in
1949.

In World War 11, Buick built aircraft engines, tanks and

1953 Skylark

1949Roadmaster

Motor Trend magazine named the1962 Buick Special
“Car of the Year”, The first productionV-6 engine was
used in the Special,
~~

i
J

Buicks are,and will continue to be, premium American
motorcars with smooth power, high performance, rich
detail and comfortable accommodation.

Buicks are POWERFUL.
Buicks.are MATURE.

1923 Buick Sport Roadster

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

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

In the yellow caution area,we tell you what the hazard
is. Then we tellyou what to do to help avoid or reduce
the hazard. Please read these cautions.
If you don’t, you
or others could behurt.

You
will also
find
red
acircle
with
slash
a through
in
it
this book.
I

This safety symbol means
“Don’t,’’ “Don’tdo this,”
or “Don’t let this happen.”

................................................................
This part tells you how to use your manual and includes safety and vehicle damage warnings & symbols.
SeatsandSafetyBelts ..................................................................
This part tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly.
Featuresandcontrols ..................................................................

HowtoUsethisManual

10
13
59

This part explains how to start and operate your Buick.

Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

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

117

This part tells you how to adjust the ventilation & comfort controls and how to operate your sound system.

..............................................................
Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.
ProblemsontheRoad ..................................................................
This part tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flattire or engine overheating.
ServiceandAppearanceCare ............................................................
Here the manual tells you how to keep yourBuick running properly and looking good.
Maintenanceschedule ..................................................................
This part tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants touse.
Customer Assistance Information ........................................................
YourDrivingandtheRoad

139
183
215
269
289

This part tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how toget service publications. It also gives
you information on “Reporting Safety Defects.”

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.

297

Vehicle Damage Warnings
Also, in this book you will find these blue notices:
0

In the blue 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,. In this manual, we've used the
familiar words and colors that Buick has used
for years.
"
You'll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use
the same colors, and the words CAUTIONor NOTICE.

These symbols
are used on
warning and
indicator lights:

Vehicle Symbols
These are some of the symbols you will find on your vehicle.
For example,
these symbols
are used on an
original battery:
CAUTION
POSSIBLE
INJURY

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

These symbols
have to do with
your lights:

These symbols
are on someof
your controls:

’’’
4-

WINDSHIELD

FASTEN
CAUSTIC

BATTERY
CHARGING
SYSTEM

WASHER
f0

PROTECT
EYES BY
SHIELDING

ENGINE
COOLANT
TEMP

-**

WINDSHIELD Q
WASHER

TURN
SIGNALS

SEAT

RADIATOR
COOLANT

WINDSHIELD
DEFROSTER

BELTS

Here are some
other symbols
you may see:

-F-

FUSE

I-1

WINDOW
DEFOGGER

AVOID
SPARKS OR
FLAMES
SPARK OR
FLAME
COULD
EXPLODE
BATTERY

OR
HIGH BEAM

,111,

FOG LAMPS

=o
=

VENTILATING
FAN

HEADLAMP
WASHER
WIPER

TEMP
OIL

-iQ,~*-,
-

ANTILOCK
BRAKE
L

CONDITIONING
AIR
TRUNK
HATCHBACK
RELEASE

ENGINE OIL
PRESSURE W

RADIO
VOLUME

FUEL

BURNS

‘‘ill

RADIO
SELECTOR

&
(@)

LIGHTER- 1

HORN

SPEAKER

cr
,

Part 1 Seats and Safety Belts
Here you’ll find information aboutthe seats 111 yuul UUIUS. your Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (“air bag”) systeill
. You can also learn about some things you should
@ do with safety belts
.
and howto use your safety belts properly
Part 1 includes:
SeatsandSeatControls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
17
HeadRestraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SafetyBelts .They’re for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
WhySafetyBeltsWork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
24
Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
26
DriverPosition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Lap-ShoulderBelt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
...............................................
32
SupplementalInflatableRestraintSystem
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
38
PassengerPositions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
43
SmallerChildrenandBabies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ChildRestraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
53
LargerChildren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
56
SafetyBeltExtender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
56
CheckingYourRestraintSystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing Safety Belts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Seats and Seat Controls

Power Seat

Front Control (F): Raise or lower the frontof the seat
by holding the switchto the right or left.
Center Control(C): Move the seat forwardor back by
holding the controlto the front or back. Raise the seat
by holding the controlto the left. Hold the controlto the
right to lower the seat.
Rear Control (R):Raise or lower the rear
of the seat by
holding the switch to the right or the left.

Reclining Front Seatback(s)

Fourteen Way Seat (Driver’s Side Only Option)

To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on
the outer side of
I

the seat. Release the lever to lockthe seatback where
you want it. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to
an upright position.

With this seat you have these adjustments, too:
0

Recliner - This changes the position of the seatback.

Lumbar - The center seatback supportis inflated or
deflated for the desired lower back support.

If you havethe power
option, it works with the
switch locatedon the side
of the seat.

A CAUTION:
Sitting in a reclined position when your
vet le
is in motion can be dangerous. Evenif you
buckle up, your safety belts can’t
do their job
when you’re reclined like this.

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

CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)
The shoulder belt can't do its jobbecause it
won't be againstyour body. Instead, it willbe in
front of you. In a crash you could go intoit,
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. Thebelt
forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones.
This could cause serious internal injuries.
For proper protection when the vehicle is
motion, have the seatbackupright. Then
back in the seat andwear your safety belt
properly.

Head Restraints

m
Slide the head restraint
up or dawn so that &e top ,o$.tha:
restraint is: closest -to tbe topof your ears.

This position reduces the chance of a: ne,& injury m a
crash.

Front Seatback Latches

Your seatback will move back and forth freely, unless
to a sudden
stop.
Then
will
lock
place.
itin
you
come

There's one time the seatbackmay not fold without
some help fromyou. That's if your vehicle is parked
down
going
asteep
fairly b
hill.

To fold a seatback forward, push the seatback toward the

1 A CAUTION:
' If the seatback isn't locked, it could move
I
forward in a sudden stop or crash. Thatca

1
cause injury to the person sitting there. Always
press rearward on the seatback to
be sure it is
locked in place.
~

Safety Belts: They’reFor Everyone
This part of the manual tells you howto use safety belts
properly. It also tells you some things you should not
do
with safety belts.
And it explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint, or
“air bag” system.

b’

This figure lights up when
‘youturn the key to “Run”
or “Start” when your’
safety belt isn’t buckled,
.and you’ll hear a chime,
too. It’s the reminder to
buckle up.

A CAUTION:
Don’t let anyane ride where they can’t wear i
safety belt properly. Ifyou 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 injuredor killed. In the same crash,
you might notbe if you are buckled up. Alwa
fasten your safety belt, and check that your
passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

In many states and Canadian provinces, the law says
to
wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.
You never know if you’llbe in a crash.If you do have a
crash, you don’t know
if it will be a bad one.
A few crashesare very mild. In them, you won’t get hurt
even if you’re not buckled up. And some crashes can be
so serious, like being hit by a train,
that even buckled up
a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes
are in
between. In manyof them, people who buckle up can
survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they
or killed.
could be badly hurt

After 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are
clear. In most crashes bucklingup does matter ... a lot!

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

For example, ifthe bike is going 10 mph (16 km/h), so
is the child.

When the bike hits the block, it stops. But the child
keeps going!

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

Put someone on it.

Get it upto speed. Thenstop the “car.” The rider doesn’t
stop.

The person keeps going until stopped
by something.

or the instrument panel...

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

Here Are Questions Many People Ask
About Safety Belts -- and the
Answers
@

Won’t I be trapped inthe vehicle after an
accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

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

@ Why don’t they just put in air bags so people
or the safety belts!
With safety belts, you slow downas the vehicle does.
You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance,
and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why
safetv belts make such good sense.

won’t have to wear safety belts?

“Air bags,” or Supplemental Inflatable Restraint
systems, are in some vehicles today and will be in
more of them in thefuture. But theyare
supplemental systems only -- so they work with
safety belts, not insteadof them. Every “air bag”
system ever offered for sale has required the use
of
safety belts. Evenif you’re in a vehicle that has.
“
air bags,” you still have to buckle
up to get the

most protection. That’strue not only in frontal
collisions, but especiallyin side and other
collisions.

Safety Belt Reminder Light

I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from
Q= Ifhome,
why should I wear safety belts?

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.
Most accidents occurwithin 25 miles (40 km) of
home. And the greatest .number
of serious
injuries and deathsoccur at speedsof less than
40 mph (65 km/h).

When’the key is turned to “Run” or“Start,” a light will
come on for about eight secondsto remind people to
fasten their safety belts. Unless the driver’s safety is
belt
buckled, a chime will also sound.

Safety beltsare foreveryone.

Lap-Shoulder Belt

The driver has a lap-shoulderbelt. Here’s how to wear it
properly.

1. Close and lock the door.
2. Adjust the seat (tosee how, see “Seats” in the Index)
so you can sit up straight.

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.
4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until
it clicks.
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 faces
upward or outwardso you would be able to unbuckle
it quicklyif you ever had to.

What’s wrong with this?

The lap part Of the
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 applyforce 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 locksif there’s a sudden stop or crash.

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

I A CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurtif your shoulder belt
is too loose. In a crash you would move forward
too much, which could increase injury. The
shoulder
belt
should
fit
againsi
Bur body.

What’s wrong with this?
n

A CAUTION:

You can beseriously injured if your belt is
buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash,
the belt wouldgo up over your abdomen. The
belt forces wouldbe there, not at the pelvic
bones. This couldcause serious internal
injuries. Always buckle your belt intothe buckle
nearest you.
x<->.

-j;w;.!’.Ch i i ’ .

&hbLe:J*&A&

The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

What’s wrong with this?

A CAUTION:
You can beseriously 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 headand neck injury.
Also, the belt would apply too much force to the
ribs, which aren’t asstrong 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 shoulderat all times.

What’s wrong with this?

/A CAUTION:
You can be seriouslyinjured by a twisted belt.
In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full widthof
the belt to spread impact forces.If a belt is
twisted, make it straight so it can work properly,
or ask your dealerto fix it.
I

The belt is twisted across the body.

Supplemental Inflatable Restraint
System (Air Bag)
This section explains the driver’s Supplemental
Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system, commonly referred to
as an air bag. Here are the most impdi-tant things to
know:

A CAUTION:
Before you close the door, be sure the belt
is out of the
way. If you slam the dooron it, you can damage both
the belt and your vehicle.

Even with an air bag, if you’re not wearing a
safety belt and you’re in a crash,your injuries
may be much worse. Air bags are not designed
to inflate in rollovers orin rear, side or
low-speed frontal crashes. You need to wear
your safety belt toreduce the chance of hitting
things insidethe vehicle or being ejected from
it. Always wearyour safety belt, evenwith an air
bag.

IA CAUTION:

You will see this light flash
for a few seconds when you
turn your ignitionto “Run”
or “Start.” Then the light
should go out, which means
the system is ready.

Air bags :..Hate with great force,faster than the
blink ofan eye. If you’re too close to an inflating
air bag, it could seriously injureyou. Safety
belts help keep you in position for an air bag
inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety
belt, evenwith an air bag, and sit as far back as
you can while still maintaining control of your
vehicle.

Air Bag System Light
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument
panel, which shows “INFLATABLE RESTRAINT”.
The system checks itself and.
$helight tells you if there is
a problem.
?:

A CAUTION:
If the air bag readiness light doesn’t come on
when you startyour vehicle, or stays on, or
comes on when you are driving, your air bag
system may not work properly. Haveyour
vehicle serviced right away.

When is an airbag expected to inflate?
The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe
will only
frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag
inflate if the velocityof the impact is above the designed
threshold level. When impacting straight into a wall that
does not move or deform, the threshold level
for most
GM vehicles is between9 and 14 mph. However, this
velocity threshold depends on the vehicle design and
may be several miles-per-hour faster or slower. In
addition, this threshold velocity will be considerably
as a parked
higher if the vehicle strikes an object such
on impact. The air bag
car which will move and deform
is also not designed to inflate
in rollovers, side impacts,
or rear impacts where the inflation would provide no
occupant protection benefit.

Where is the airbag?

In any particular crash,the determination of whether the
air bag should have inflated cannot be based solely on
the level of damage on the vehicle(s). Inflation is
determined by the angleof the impact and the vehicle’s
deceleration, of which vehicle damage is only one
indication. Repair cost is not a good indicator
of
whether an air bag should have deployed.

What makes anair bag inflate?

-T

AC
0

UTION:

Don’t attach anything to the steer J
wheel pad. It mi -It injure the driver if 1
air bag inflates.
The air bag is designed to inflate only
once. After it inflates, you’ll need some
new parts foryour 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 the air
bag module and possibly other parts. The
service manual has information about the
need to replace other parts.
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.

Servicing Your Buick with theAir Bag
System
Please tell or remind anyone who works on your Buick
of the air
that it has the air bag system. There are parts
bag system in several places around your vehicle.
You
don’t want the system to inflate while someone is
working on your vehicle. The air bag system does not
need regular maintenance.Your Buick dealer and the
1993 Riviera Service Manual have information about
the air bag system, including repair
or disposal.

A CAUTION:
For up to 10 minutes a1 r the ignition key is
turned off and the battery disconnected, anair
bag can still inflate during improper service.
You can beinjured if you are close to an air bag
when it inflates. Be sure to follow the proper
I service procedures.

When electrical workis done under the hood or inside
your vehicle, the ignition should be in “Lock”
if
possible.

Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape,or yellow
connectors. Theyare probably part of the air bag
system.
But if the ignition hasto be on for electrical work, or if
the steering column is to be disassembled, the air bag
system must be disconnected.To do this:
Turn off the ignition.
0

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Safety
belts
work
for
everyone,
including
pregnant
women. Like all occupants, theyare more likely to be
seriously injuredif they don’t wear safety belts.
A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and
the lap portion should be
w o k as low as possible
throughout the pregnancy.

‘Removethe SIR (air bag) fuse (see “Fuses and
Circuit Breakers”in the Index).
Disconnect the yellow connector at the&ase of the
steering column.

When the work is complete,if the air bag system was
disconnected, be sureto reattach everything and replace
the fuse before turning the ignitionon. When you turn
the ignition key on,be sure you see the inflatable
If you don’t see
restraint light on the instrument panel.
go out as usual, have yourair
this light flash and then
bag system repaired.

t
’

The best wayto protect the fetus is to protect the
more
mother. Whena safety belt is worn properly, it’s
likely that the fetus won’t be hurt aincrash. For
pregnant women, asfor anyone, the key to making
safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

Right Front PassengerPosition

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

Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

The rightfrontpassenger’s safety belt works the same
vvay as.the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,”
earlier h.this part.
%When.the
lap portion of the beltis pulled out all the
way, it will lock. If it does, letit go back all the wayand
tart again.

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

. .

The lap partof the belt should be
worn low and snug on
In a crash, this applies
end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. 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 suddenstop'or a crash,
or if you pull it very quickly out of the retractor.

3.' To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle the hips, just touching the thighs.

A CAUTION:
You can be seriouslyhurt 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. .. : . .
.

I
Ib un1atc.hthe belt, just push the buttan on the
buckle.

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

Center Passenger Position
n
,

To make the belt shorter, pull
its free end as shown until
the belt is snug.

. .

Buckle, position and releaseit 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.

A CAUTION:
Never hold a babyin your arms while riding
in a
vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh muchuntil a crash.
During a crash a baby
will become so heavy you
can't holdit. For example,in a crashat only 25 mph
(40 km/h), a 12-pound
(5.5kg) babywill suddenly
become a 240-pound (11
0 kg) force on your
arms.
The babyW Obe
La~l I
p~
4 impossible to hold.

CAUTION: (Continued)
Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

Child Restraints
Be sure to followthe instructions for the restraint. You
may find these instructions onthe restraint itself or ina
booklet, or both. These restraints use
the belt system in
your vehicle, but the childalso has tobe secured within
the restraint to help reduce the chanceof personal injury.
The instructions that come with the infant
or child
restraint will showyou'how to do that.

A CAUTION:
An unst
:hild
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.

Where to Put the Restraint
Accident statistics show that children are safer
if they
are restrained inthe rear rather thanthe front seat. We at
General Motors therefore recommend that you put your
child restraint inthe rear seat unlessthe child is an
infant and you're the only adult in the vehicle. In that
case, you might want to secure
the restraint in the front
seat where you can keep an eye
on the baby.
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure
the child
restraint properly.

Top Strap

If your child restraint hastop
a strap,it should be
anchored.
If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask
your Buick dealerto put it infor you. If you wantto
install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how
to do it.

Vehicles first sold in Canada have child restraint anchor
bracket hardware in the glove
box, along with
instructions for installing it. This
shouldbe used only
with a child restraint, and only
to secure a child restraint
at the center rear seating position. Additional anchor
the rear
brackets for child restraints at one or of
both
outside seating positionsare available at Buick
dealerships in Canada.
’

Securing a Child Restraint in, a Rear
Outside Position

of the
See if the shoulder belt would go in front
child’s face or neck.If so, put it behind the child
;-restraint.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button faces
upward or outward, so you’ll be able to unbuckle it
quickly if you ever need to.
.. .

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt.See the earlier
section about the top
strap if the child restraint has one.
1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions
for the child restraint.
2. Secure the childin the child restraint as the
instructions say.
3. Pull out the vehicle’s safety belt and run the lap part
through or around the restraint.The child restraint
instructions will showyou how. Tilt the latch plateto
adjust the beltif needed.

you push down onthe child restraint.

6 . Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions tobe sure it is secure.

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

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center
Rear Seat Position

1. Make the beltas long as possible by tilting the latch
plate and pulling it along the belt.

seating
When you secure a child restraint in a center
position, you’ll be usingthe lap belt.
See the earlier section aboutthe top strapif the child
restraint has one.

2. Put the .restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions 5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button faces
upward or outward,so you’ll be able to unbuckle it
for the child restraint.
quickly if you ever need to.
3. Secure the child in .the child restraintas the
6. To tighten the belt, pull itsfree end while you push
instructions say.
down on the child restraint.
4. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the
restraint. The child restraint instructions will show 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions tobe sure it is secure. If the child restraint
you how.
isn’t secure, turn the latch plate over and buckle it
again. Then seeif it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the
restraint in a different place in the vehicle and
contact the child restraint maker for their advice.
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

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

1. Put the restraint on, the seat. Follow the instructions
for the child restraint.
2. Secure the childin the child restraint as the
4. Buckle the belt.
instructions say.
Make sure the release button faces upward or
3. Pull out the vehicle’s safety belt and run the lap part
outward, so you’ll be able to unbuckle it quicklyif
through or around the restraint. The child restraint
you ever need to.
instructions will show you how.
See if the shoulder belt would goin front of the
child’s face or neck. If so, put it behind the child
restraint:

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

6. To tightenthebelt,feedthelapbeltbackintothe
retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the childrestraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's
safety belt and let go
it back all the way.

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

If you have the choice, a child should sit next toa
The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and
work for an adult or larger child passenger.
get the additional restraint
a shoulder belt can provide.

Accident statistics show that childsen are safer if they
are restrainedin the rear seat. But they needto use the
safety belts properly.
Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrownout in
a crash.

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

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 personat a time.

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

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

Checking Your Restraint Systems
Now and then, make sure all your belts, buckles, latch
plates, retractors, anchorages and reminder systems
are
working properly. Lookfor any loose parts or damage.
If you see anything that might keep a restraint system
from doingits job, have it repaired.

&= What’s wrong with this?

Replacing Safety Belts Aftera Crash
If you’ve hada crash, do,you need new belts?
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.
worn
But if the belts were stretched, as they wouldifbe
you need new belts.
during a more severe crash, then

If belts arecut or damaged, replace them. Collision
damage also may mean you will have to have safety belt
parts, like the retractor, replacedor anchorage locations
at the time
repaired -- even if the belt wasn’t being used
of the collision.

. ..

. - --.

.. ., .~ , ..

’.
.

~ ..- .. . / ^!,
1

:- >
.

il.

The belt is torn.

Tornor frayed belts may not protect youina
crash. They can rip apart under impact forces.
If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one
right
away.

1931 Buick Model 90

Part 2

Features & Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Buick. and information on starting. shifting
tell if everything is working
and braking. Also explainedare the instrument panel and the warning systems that you
properly ..and what to do if you havea problem .
Part 2 includes:
Keys ............................................................................
DoorLocks .......................................................................
NewVehicleBreak-In ..............................................................
StartingtheEngine .................................................................
ShiftingtheTransaxle ..............................................................
Windows .........................................................................
TiltSteeringWheel ................................................................
Multi-FunctionLever ...............................................................
TurnandLaneChangeSignals ...................................................
Headlight High-Low Beam Changer ..............................................
Windshield Wipermasher ......................................................
CruiseControl ................................................................
Instrumentpanel ...................................................................
Speedometer and Odometer ......................................................
Warning Lights and Gages ......................................................

60
61
70
72
75
84
84
85
85
87
87
90
105
105
107

Keys

The ignition keys are for
the ignition only.

A CAUTION:
Leaving young childrenin a vehicle with the
ignition keyis dangerous for many reasons.A
child or others couldbe badly injuredor even
killed.
They could operate power windows
or other
controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t
leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.

The door keys are for the
doors andall other locks.

When a new Riviera is delivered,
the dealer removes the
plugs fromthe keys, and gives themto t,he first owner.
However, the ignitionkey may not have a plug.
Each plug has acode on it that tells your dealer or a
qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the
plugs in a safe place.If you lose your keys,you'll be
able to have new ones made easily using
these plugs. If
your ignition keysdon't have plugs, go to your Buick
dealer for the correct kev codeif you needa: new
ignition key.

Door Locks

A CAUTION:
Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
Passengers -- especially children -- can easily
open the doors and fall out. When adoo
locked, the inside handle won3 open it.
Outsiders can easily enter throwghan unlocked
door when you slow down or stopyour vehicle.
This may not be so obvious: Yrou inscreasethe
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 driveyour vehicle,

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle:

From the inside: To lock the door, move the lock control
on the door down.

To unlock the door, move the lock control on the door
UP.

From the outside: Use your door key.

If your vehicle has a theft deterrent system and it' is
armed, unlock the doors only with the key or Remote
one). This will avoid
Keyless Entry System (if you h-ave
setting off the alarm.

Power Door Locks
Push the power door lock
switch to lock or unlock
both doorsat once.

When the door is closed again, it will not lock
automatically. Just usethe manual or power lock to
lock
the door again.

Leaving Your Vehicle
If you are leaving the vehicle, open your door and set
the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door.

If your vehicle has a theft deterrent system,
see
“Universal Theft Deterrent” in the Index.

Remote Trunk Release
Push the TRUNK button
found in the glovebox to
unlock the trunk.

Automatic Door Locks (Option)
Just close your doors, turn on
the ignition and make sure
the interior courtesy lightsare switched off. Every time
you move your shift leverout of “P” (Park) all of the
doors will lock. And, every timi: you
stop and move
your shift leverinto “P” (Park), yourdoors will unlock.
If someone needs to get
out while you’re not in“P”
(Park), have that person
use the manual or power lock.

If you have the Remote Keyless Entry System,it also
will unlock your trunk.

Automatic Pull-Down Feature
(Option)

Remote Keyless Entry System
(Option)

If you have this feature, it pulls the trunk lid down and
the pull-down feature then securesit completely.

A CAUTION:
Your car may havean automatic pull-down
feature that helps close the trunk electronically.
Your fingers can be trapped under the trunk lid
as it goes down. Your fingers couldbe injured,
and you would need someoneto help you free
them. Keep your fingers away from the trunk lid
as you close it and as it is going down.

-. .. ,
.. -

-.
,

If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock
up to 15 feet (5 m)
your doors or unlock your trunk from
away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your
vehicle.
Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on a radio
frequency subject to Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules.

Both doors will lock whenLOCK'is pressed.

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

The interior lights will come
on when the light symbol
or unlock symbolis pressed.

Should interference to this system occur, try this:

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle

Check to determine if battery replacement is
necessary. See the instructions on battery
replacement.

Check the distance. You may be too far, from your
vehicle. This product has a maximum range.

The trunk will unlock whenthe opened trunk symbol is
pressed, but only whenthe transaxle is in PARK.

Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be
blocking the signal.
0

See your Buick dealer or a qualified technician for

The driver's door will unlock when UNLOCK is
pressed. If UNLOCK is pressed twice quickly, both
doors will unlock.

See your dealer to match transmitters to another vehicle.

Battery Replacement
Under normal use,the batteries in yourkey chain
transmitter should last about two years.
You can tell the batteries
are weak if the transmitter
won't work at the normal range in any location. If you
have to get closeto your vehicle before the transmitter
works, it's probably timeto change the batteries.

To replace the battery, insert the round end
of the door
of
lock key into the slot
of the access door on the back
the transmitter.Turn the door one-sixteenthof a turnto
the left,and'lift it out of the transmitter. Remove the
CR2025 or
battery and replace it with a Sanyo
equivalent. It is important to use the correct size battery.
Using the wrong battery may damage the transmitter.
Make sure you install the battery
as the direction under
the cover indicates.To put the cover back on, line up the
notches and turnto the right.

Theft
Vehicle theftis big business, especially in some cities.
Although yourh i c k has a numberof theft deterrent
features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it
impossible to steal. However, thereare ways you can
help.

Key in the ignition: If you walk away from your
vehicle withthe keys inside, it's an easy target joy
for
-- so don't do it.
riders or professional thieves
When you park your Buick and open the driver's door,
you'll hear a tone 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, closeall
Universal Theft Deterrent (Option)
windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your
valuables outof sight. Put them ina storage area, or take If your Buick has this option, it hasa theft deterrent
alarm system. With this system,the “SECURITY” light
them with you.
will flash as you open the door (if your ignition off).
is
Parking Lots:If you park in a lot where someone will be
This light reminds you to arm
the theft deterrent system.
watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take
Here’s how todo it:
your keys. But what
if you have to leave your ignition
key? What if you have to leave something valuable in
1. Open the door.
your vehicle?
2. Lock the door withthe power door lock switch or
0 Put your valuables ina storage area, like your trunk
Remote Keyless Entry System. The “SECURITY”
or glove box.
light should come on and stay on.
0 Lock the glove box.
3. Close all doors.The “SECURITY” light ‘should go
off.
0 Lock all the doors except the driver’s.
0

Then take the door key with you.

If a door or the trunk is opened without
the key or
Remote Keyless Entry System the alarm will
go off. It
is
will also go offif a door lock or the trunk lock
damaged. Your vehicle’s lights will flash and the horn
off to save
will sound for several minutes, then will go
battery power.
Remember, the theft deterrent system won’t arm if you
lock the doors witha key or manual door lock. It arms
only if you use a power door lock switchor Remote
Keyless Entry System.You should also remember that
you can start your vehicle with
the correct ignition key

if the alarm has been setoff, but this does not shut
off
the alarm.
Here’s how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident:

If you don’t want to arm the theft deterrent system,
the vehicle should be locked after the doors,
are
closed.
Always unlocks door with a key, or use the Remote
Keyless Entry System. Unlocking a door any other
way will setoff the alarm.
If you setoff the alarm by accident, unlock any door
with your key.
You can also turnoff the alarm by using the Keyless
Entry System, if you have it. The alarm won’t stop if
you try to unlock a door any other way.

How to Test The Alarm
The alarm can be tested by first having the driver’s
doors
window down. Arm the system by locking the
with the power door lock switch or the Remote Keyless
Entry System. Get outof the car and closethe door, then
reach in through the window and unlock the door with
the manual door lock. This should
set the alarm off.

If the alarm does not sound when it should, check
see to
if the horn works. The horn fuse may be blown. To
replace the fuse, see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers”
thein
Index.

To reduce the possibilityof theft, always arm the theft
deterrent systemwhen leaving your vehicle.

PASS-Key I1

When the PASS-Key I1 TM 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’tgo 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 someoneErom randomly trying different
keys with different resistor pelletsin an attempt to make
a match.
The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s
inserted in the ignition orthe engine may not start.If the
engine doesn’t start and the “SECURITY” light comes
off.
on, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition

Clean and drythe key. Wait about three minutes and try
again. The security light will remain on during this time.
If the starterstill won’t work, and the key appears to be
Your vehicle is equipped with
the PASS-Key I1
clean and dry, wait
about three minutes and try the other
(Personalized Automotive Security System) theft
to check
ignition key. At this time, you may also want
deterrent system. PASS-Key11TM is a passive theft
the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers”the
inIndex).
deterrent system. This means you don’t havedoto
If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle
anything different to arm or disarm the system. It works needs service.If your vehicle does start, thefirst ignition
when you insert or remove
the key from the ignition.
key may be faulty.See your Buick dealer ora locksmith
the ignition key
PASS-Key TM uses a resistor pellet in
who can service the PASS-Key I1 .
that matches a decoder in your vehicle.
If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or
missing resistor pellet,the starter won’t work and the

Se6urity light will flash.But you don’t have to wait three
of the ignition keys.
minutes before trying one
See your Buick dealer ora locksmith who can service
the Pass-Key11TM to havea new key made.
If you’re ever driving and the “SECURITY” light comes
on and continues to flash,
you will be able to restart
your engineif you turn it off. Your PASS-Key 11TM
system, however, is not working properly and must be
serviced by your Buick dealer. Your vehicleis not
protected by thePASS-Key 11 system.
If you lose or damage a PASS-Key 11 ignition key, see
your Buick dealer ora locksmith who can service
PASS-Key I1 TM to have a new key made.

Ignition Key Positions
Your square-headed key
operates yourignition lock.

The other positions let
you perform these functions:

Starting Your Engine

ACC: Accessory lets you use things like the radio and Move your shift leverto “P,’ (Park) or “ N ’ (Neutral).
the windshield wipers when the engineis off. To use
-- that’s a
Your engine won’t start in any other position
Acc, push in the key and turnit toward you. Your
steering wheel will remain locked,
just as it was before
you inserted thekey.

safety feature,To restart when you’re already moving,
use “N” (Neutral) only.

OFF: This position lets you turnoff the engine but still
turri the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering
wheel like “Lock.” Use“Off’ if you must have your car
in motion while the engine is off.

RUN: This is the position for driving.
START This key position starts your engine.
1. Don’t push the accelerator pedal before starting your
to
engine. In some other vehicles you might need do
this, but becauseof your vehicle’s computer systems,
you don’t.

2. Turn your ignition key to “Start.” When the engine
starts, let goof the key. The idle speed will go down
as your engine gets warm.
3. If it doesn’t start right away, holdyour key in “Start”
for about three seconds at a time until your engine

Engine Block Heater (Option)
In very cold weather, 0 F (-18 C)or colder, the engine

block heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and
better fuel economy during engine warm-up.
To usetheblockheater:

I. Turn off the engine.
L.

Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt outlet.

A CAUTION:
Plugging the cord intoan ungrounded outlet
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the
wrong kindof extension cord couldoverheat
and causea fire. You could be seriously injured.
Plug thecord intoa properly grounded
three-prong 110-volt outlet.If the cord won’t
reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension
cord rated for at least 15 amps.

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

Automatic-Transaxle

There are SL dral different positionsfor your shift lever.
0

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

A CAU

ION:

It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fullyin “P” (Park) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Don’t leaveyour vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. Ifyou have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
You or others could beinjured. To be sure your
vehicle won’t move, whenyou’re on fairlylevel
ground, always set your parking brake and
move the shift lever to “P” (Park).
See “Shifting Into “P” (Park)” in the Index. If
you are parking on a hill, also see “Parking on
Hills” in the Index.

Ensure the shift lever is fully “P’
in (Park) range before
starting the engine.Your Buick has a brake-transaxle
shift interlock.You have to fully apply your regular
(Park) when the
brake.s before you can shift from“P’
ignition key is inthe “Run” position.If you cannot shift
out of “ P ’ (Park), ease pressure on the shift lever- push
the shift lever allthe way into “P” (Park) andalso
release the shift lever button on floor shift console
models as you maintain brake application. Then move

the shift lever intothe gear you wish.(Press the shift
on floor shift
lever button before moving the shift lever
console models.) See “Shifting Outof ‘P’(Park)’?in this
section.
0

R (Reverse)
Use this gear to back up.

A CAUTION:
Shifl J out of “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral) 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 controland hit people or
objects. Don’t shift outof “P” (Park) or “N”
(Neutral) while your engine is racing.

I
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out
of snow,
“If
ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see
You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

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

@ AutomaticOverdrive

2 (SecondGear)

This position isfor normal driving.If you need more
power for passing, and you’re:

This position givesyou more power but lower fuel
economy. You can use “2” on hills. It can help
control your speedas you go down steep mountain
roads, but then you would also want to use your
brakes off and on.

- Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push
your accelerator pedal about halfway down.
- Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the
accelerator all the way down.

You’ll shift down tothe next gear and have more
power.
0

D (Third Gear)
This is like @, but you never go into Overdrive.
Here are some times you might choose“ D ” instead
of @:
-

When driving on hilly, winding roads
When going down a steep hill

1 (First Gear)

Parking Brake

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

The parking brakes uses the brakes the
on rear wheels.

To set the parking brake:
Hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot.
Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot.
If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will
come on.

To release the parking
brake:

Hold the regular brake
pedal down. Pull the brake
release lever.

Shifting Into6 6PS? (Park)

A CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if
the shift lever is not fully in “P” (Park) 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,
when you’re on fairlylevel ground, use the
steps that follow. If you are parking on a hill,
also see “Parking On Hills” in the Index.

1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and
set the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever into “P” (Park) position like
this:

If YOU are on a hill: See “ Parking on Hills”in the Index.
That section show$ how to turn your
front wheels.

Holdin the button on the lever, and pushthe
lever all the way toward the front of your vehicle.

LeavingYour Vehicle With the Engine
Running

A CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with
the engine running. Your vehicle could move
suddenly if the shift lever is not fullyin “P”
(Park) 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 leaveyour
vehicle with the engine running unlesr --ouhave
to.

3. Move the ignition key to “Lock.”

If you. have toleave your vehicle .with the engine
“P” (Park) and your
running, be sure your vehicle is in
4. Remove the key and take it with you.
If you can
you
leave it. After
parking
brake
is
firmly
set
before
walk away from your vehicle with the ignition key in
you’ve moved the shift lever into
the “P” (Park)
your hand, your vehicle isin “P)’ (Park).
position, hold the regular brake pedal down. Then,
see if
you can move the shift lever awayfrom “P,’ (Park)
If you can, it means
without first pushing the button.
T“ (Park).
that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into

Shifting Out of66P9 9 (Park)

Parking Over Things That Burn

Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock.
You
have to fully applv your regular brake before you can
shift from “P” (Park) when the ignition isin the “Run”
position. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index.
If you cannot shift outof “P” (Park), ease pressure on
the shift lever-- push the shift leverall the way into “P”
(Park) and also release
the shift lever button on floor
shift console modelsas you maintain brake application.
Then move the shift leverinto the gear you wish. (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 “P” (Park), try this:

1. Turn the key to “Off.” Open and close the driver’s
door to turn off the Retained Accessory Power
feature.
of Step 4.
2. Apply and hold the brake until the end
3. Shift to “N” (Neutral).
4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear you
want.
5 . Have the vehicle fixedas soon as you can.

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

.
I

CAUTlOf _.[lConltlinulecJ~
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle i,.
tlhe shiift lever is not flullly in1 T”(Park) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehic’le can roll.
!Don’t leaveyour veh!iclewhen the engine is
running unlessyou have to. If you’ve left the
engine irunning, th8e
vehicle can move su’ddenly.
You or others couldbe ‘injured. To be sure your
vehic’le w&t move, even when you,’re on fairly
level ground, always set your parkingbr’akea’nd
move theshift lever to ‘T’’ (Park).
Follow the proper steps to be sure yourvehicle
won’t Imove., SeeShifting Into’’~P’(Park) in the
Index,.
If you are parkiingon a hil’l,also see “Pariking on
Hills” in the Index.

Retained Accessory Power
After theignition is turned off, and before any door is
opened, the following systems will work
for ten
minutes:

1’I

Powerwindows
0

Radio

Clock (with radio off)

Windshieldwiper/waSher

Astroroof(option)

Power Windows

To lower the window, pull back on the switch.
The
window will lower as long as the switch is held.To raise
the window, push the switch forward.

Horn
To sound the horn, press the pad with the horn symbol
on either side of the steering wheel.

O A

A tilt steering wheel allows you
to adjust the steering
wheel before you drive.

You can also raiseit 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. Move the steering wheel toa comfortable level,
then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

1Ai

The Turn SignallHeadlight Beam
Lever

The lever an the left side of the steering column
includes your:
0 Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator
0 Headlight High-Low Beam & Passing Signal.
0 Flash-To-PassFeature
6 WindshieldWipers
0 WindshieldWasher
0 CruiseControl

n r n Signal and Lane Change Indicator

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

Operation of Lights.
Although your vehicle’s lighting system (headlamps,
parking lamps, fog lamps,side marker lamps and tail
lamps) meet all applicable Federal lighting
requirements, certain States and
Rovinces may apply
their own lighting regulations that may require special
attention beforeyou operate these lamps. For example,
some jurisdictions may require that you operate your
lower beam lamps withfog lamps at all times, or that
headlamps be turned on whenever you must use your
windshield wipers. In addition, most jurisdictions
prohibit driving solely with parking lamps, especially
at
dawn
or
dusk.
It
is
recommended
that
you
check
with
To signal a lane change,just raise or lower the lever
for
you own State or Provincial highway authority
until the green arrow starts to flash. Hold
it there until
you complete your lane change. The lever will return by applicable lighting regulations.
itself when you releaseit.
in the direciionof the turn
or lane change.

As you signal a turn or a lane change,if the arrows don’t
flash but just stay on,a signal bulbmay be burned out
‘and other drivers won’t see your turn signal.

If a bulb is burned out, replace
it to help avoidan
at all when you
accident. If the green arrows don’t go on
signal a turn, check the fuse (see “Fuses” in the Index)
hnd-fQrbumed-Qvtbulbs.
i

Headlight High-Low Beam
To change the headlights
from low beam to high or
high to low, pull the turn
signal lever all theway
toward you. Then release it.
When the high beamsare
on, a blue light on the
instrument panel also will
be on.

Flash-To-Pass Feature

If your headlights are on, but on low beam: The system
works normally. Just pull the lever until it clicks. Your
headlights will shiftto high beam and stay there.
To
return to low beam,just pull the lever toward you.

Windshield Wipers

. .

This featurelets you use your high beam headlights to
signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. It
works even if your headlights are off.
To use it, pull the headlight beam towardyou a little
(but notso far that you hear a click). Whenyou do:

If your headlights are off Your high beam headlights
as hold the
will turn on. They’ll stay on as long you
lever there. Release the lever
to turn them off.

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

You can setthe wiper speed for a long or short delay
between wipes. This can be very usefulin light rain or
snow. Turn theband to choose the delay time. The
closer to “LO,” the shorter the delay.

Windshield Washer

For steady wiping at low speed,
turn the band away
from you to the “LO” position. For high speed wiping,
turn the band further,to “HI.” To stop the wipers, move
$he band to“OFF.”

A CAUTION:
Damaged wiper blades may prevent you fro!..
To avoid
seeing well enough to drive safely.
damage, be sure to clearice and snow from the
wiper blades before using them.If they’re
frozen tothewindshield,carefullyloosen
or
thaw them. If your blades do become damaged,
get new blades or blade inserts.

At the top of the multifunction lever there’sa paddle
with the word “PUSH” on it. To spray washer fluid on
the windshield,just push the paddlefor less thana
second. The washer will spray several times, then stop.
Unless they are already turned on, the wipers will
operate at low speedfor several sweeps, then turnoff.

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 wipers.
A circuit
breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away
m
,snow orice to prevent an overload.

If this light comeson, it
means you’re low on
washer fluid.

A CAUTION:
Driving without washer fluid can be
dangerous. A bad mud splash can block
your vision. You could hit another vehicle
or go off the road. Checkyour washer
fluid level often.
In freezing weather, don’t use your washer
until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise
the washer fluid can form ice onthe
windshield, blocking your vision.

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

To Set Cruise Control

2. Get up to the speed you want.

1. Move the Cruise
Control switch to
“ON.”

3. Push in set the button at
the end of the lever and
release it. (The
“C.RUISE” light on the
instrument panelwill
come on.)

4. Take your foot offthe accelerator pedal.

CAUTION:

If you leave your Cruise Control switchon 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.

To Resume a Set Speed
Suppose you setyour Cruise Control at a desired speed:
andthenyouapply the brake.This, of course,shuts off
the Cruise Control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once
you’re going about25 mph (40 lunk)or more, you can
move the Cruise Control switchfrom “ON’ to
“Resume/Accelerate” for abo

You’ll go right back upto your chosen speed and stay
there.

A
CAUTION:
I

If you hold the switch at “Resume/Accelerate”
longer than half a second, the vehicle will keep
going faster until you release the switch or
apply the brake.You could be startled and even
lose control. So unless you want to go faster,
don’t hold the switch at “Resume/Accelerate.’

To Increase Speed While Using
Cruise Control

Here’s the second way to
go to a higher speed:

There are two ways to go to a higher speed. Here’s
the
first:

1. Use the accelerator pedalto get to the higher speed.

1. Move the Cruise switch from “ON” to
“Resume/Accelerate.” Holdit there until you get up
to the speed you want, and then release
the switch.
2. Push the button at the endof the lever, then release
the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now
cruise at the higher speed.

2. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move
the switch to “Resume/Accelerate” for less than half
a second and then releaseit. Each timeyou do this,
your vehicle willgo about 1 mph (1.6 kmh)faster.

To Reduce Speed While Using Cruise
Control
1. Push in the button at the
end of the lever until
you reach the lower
speedyouwant,then
release it.

2. To slow down in very small amounts, push the
button for less than half
a second. Each time youdo
this, you’ll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

Passing Another Vehicle While Using
Cruise Control
Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When
you take your footoff the pedal, your vehicle will slow
down to the Cruise Control speed you set earlier.

UsingCruiseControl

on Hills

How well your Cruise Control will workon 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
a
going downhill,you may have to brake or shift to
lower gear to keep your speed down.
Of course,
applying the brake takesyou out of Cruise Control.
Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t
use Cruise Controlon steep hills.

To Get Out of Cruise Control

To Erase Speed Memory

There are two ways to turnoff the Cruise Control:

When you turnoff the Cruise Controlor the ignition,
your Cruise Control set speed memory
is erased.

Cruise and Resume Lights
The CRUISE light tells you
when you have your cruise
control on.
The RESUME light comes
on when you pushthe
Resume/Accelerate button
until you reach y o v set
speed again.

Move the Cruise
switch to "'OFF.'' (The
"CRUISE'ligfit will
go aut.)

Lights

Push the LIGHTS switchto turn the headlights on or
off. Push the "P" (PARK) switch to turn the parking
lights on or off.

Headlight ''On" Warning
If the light switch is left on you'll hear a warning tone
when you turn the ignition off and open the driver's
door.
\,

Panel and Interior Lights

The LIGHTS switch controls these light systems:

Headlights
Taillights
ParkingLights
LicenseLights
SidemarkerLights
Instrument Panel Lights
Interior Courtesy Lights

The instrument panel light
brightness can be adjusted
when the parking or
headlights are on. Slide the
lever toward HI to make
them brighter; towardLO to
dim them. Push the lever to
INT toturn on the interior
lights.

Twilight Sentinel
Twilight Sentinel turns your
headlights on and off by
sensing how dark itis
outside.

To operate it, leave the light switch off and move
the
Twilight Sentinel controlto any position butOFF.

Your Twilight Sentinel and Daytime Running Lights
(Canada Only) work withthe light sensoron top of your
instrument panel. Don’t cover
it up, if you do it will read
“dark” and your lights will come on.

If you move the control. all
the way to MAX, your lights
will remain onfor three minutes after you turnoff your
the way in the
engine. If you move the control almost all
go off quickly when you
other direction, the lights will
turn off your engine.You can change this delay
time
from only a few seconds to three minutes.

-HeadlightsReminder Light (Canada Only)

Your DRL work with a light sensor on
top of the
instrument panel. Don’t cover it up.
The low beam headlights will come
on at reduced
brightness in daylight when:
The ignition is on.
The headlight switch is off, and
The transaxle is not in “P” (Park).

If your vehicle wasfirst sold, when new, in Canada, this
light willgo on at night to remind you to turn the
on
headlights.

Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only)
The Canadian Federal Government has decided that
“Daytime Running Lights” (DRL)are a useful feature,
in that DRL can make your vehicle more visible
to
pedestrians and other drivers during daylight hours.
DRL are required on new vehicles sold in Canada.

At dusk, if the Twilight Sentinel feature is turned
on, the
exterior lights will come on automatically and the low
beams will change tofull brightness. At dawn, the
exterior lights willgo out and the low beams will
change to the reduced brightness
of DRL (if the
headlight switch isoff). If the Twilight Sentinelis off, at
dusk a “HEADLIGHTS SUGGESTED” message will
appear on the instrument panelto remind you to turn. on
the headlights.
Of course, you may still turn on the headlights any time
.
you
need
to.
To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, shift the
transaxle into T“ (Park). The DRL will stay off until
you shift outof “P”.(Park).

, >

Mirrors

Automatic (Option)

Your Buick mayhave the automatic inside mirror.
The automatic mirror adjustsfor the glareof headlights
behind you. It detects changesin light, and then adjusts
for day or nightoperatiol-~
During the day the mirror reflects
all the light from
behind your car. At night, when the glare is too high,
it
it reflects only partof
changes to the night mode. Then,
the light from behind you. When
the mirror changesto
the night mode,it holds that position until glare is no
longer present.

100

Settings
MIN: The minimum settingis suggested when driving
where glare conditions changeoften. '"in" works well
for city drivingat night.
MAX: Maximum sensitivity is a good setting for
highway driving in light traffic.
The mirror starts to
darken in any glare, such as headlights a long way
behind your car.
OFF: The mirror will stay in the
day mode.
Time Delay
The mirror delays before switching from the night back
This delay prevents rapid changing
to the day position.
of the mirror as you drive under lights and through
traffic.
Reverse Gear Day Mode
The reverse mode is another important feature
of the
automatic mirror. When the shift lever is placed"R"
in
(Reverse), the mirror shifts tothe day mode. This gives
you a bright image in the mirror
as you back up.

Cleaning Photocells

Outside Mirrors

Use a cotton swab and glass cleaner
to clean the two
photocells that makethe mirror work.

The electric mirror control ison the driver's door.

Move the switchto the right(R) or left (L) to choose a
mirror. Press anyof the four buttonsto move the mirror
in the direction desired.
Adjust each mirrorso you canjust see the side of your
car andthe area behind your car.

Heated Outside Rearview Mirror (Option)
The left outside mirroris heated when you turnon the
rear window defogger.

101

Astroroof (Option)
Iur right side mirroris convex.

mirror's surface is curvedso you can see more
)m the driver's seat.
COInvex

/!1 CAUTION:
If you aren't used toa convex mirror, you can
hit another vehicle. 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 yourinside mirror or glance over
your shoulder before changing lanes.

The controlis on the roof bet1 leen the windshield and
the sunroof.With Retained Ai lcessory Power, the
sunroof can be opened or cloq ;dduring the10 minute
period after you have turned our ignition OFF. Or, the
ignition switch will have to
b in the RUN position.

The sunshade can be opened!y grasping the handle at
will
the ffontof the shade and sliding it to the rear. It
open automatically with the iding..glass panel. It must
be closed
manually.
I
To open the glass toan angled venting position, press
1 rf the switch untilit stops.
and hold the forward portion
To close it, press and hold th$ rear Eortion
of the switch
:.
I"'%+
until it stops.
To open the sliding glasssund 2of completely, press and
hold the rear portionof the svi itch. To close the sunroof,
n of the switch until it
press and hold the front portia
stops.
The sunroof cannot be operata
d manually if your car has
an electrical power failure.
I.

- .

'~."-,"l,~~

e;*

-c

102

Ashtrays
The front center ashtray may be lifted
out for cleaning.

To remove the rear ashtrayfor cleaning, press down on
the snuffer as you pullthe ashtray down and out.

103

Cigarette Lighter

Console and Cupholder

It’s near the ashtray.To use the cigarette lighter, push it
all the way in and let it go. When it’s ready,
it will pop
back by itself.

Electronic Level Control
This feature keeps the rear
of your car levelas the load
- you don’t needto adjust
changes. It is automatic
anything. You may hear the electronic compressor
operate even when the load hasn’t changed. This is
normal.

The center console has space for cassette storage,
a
coinholder anda cupholder. The cupholder is on the
front of the storage console. Press on the exposed edge
of the cupholder, andit will slide out for use. Press the
front edge again,to slide it back to
it’s storage position.

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.

104

Speedometer and Odometer

The InstrumentPanel: Your
Information
System
__

....

_ ’

“

. -’

”

I-

Your instrument panel is designed
to let’you know at a
is running. You’ll know how fast
glance how your car
you’re going, how much fuel you’re using, and many
drive safely and
other things you’ll need to know to
economically.

Your speedometer lets you see speed
your
in miles
both
per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (lun/h). Your
odometer shows howfar your vehicle has been driven,
in either miles (used in
the U.S.) or kilometers (usedin
Canada).
Your Buick has a “tamper-resistant odometer.” Your
odometer will readERROR if someone has tampered
with it.
You may wonder what happens if your Buick has to
have a new instrument panel cluster installed.
The new
odometer doesn’t need to be reset because your car has a
body computer module (BCM) which stores
the mileage
in its memory. If the BCM is changedthe chip withthe
mileage is transferred to the new BCM. If the BCM is
damaged andthe mileage is lost, then a label the
on
driver’s door must show the old reading and when the
new one was installed.

105

Display Selection

Test
By pushing the E/M
(Englishmetric) button, the
digital display can be
changed to read English
(miles) or metric
(kilometers).

i
i

Press and hold the Test
button with your car in Park
or Neutral. This test makes
sure all your bulbs and bar
graph segments are
working. If any are not
working, have the bulbs
replaced.

Push the speed select button to change the digital and
graphical speed displayto a graphical speed display
only. Pushit again, and only the digital speed is
displayed. Pushit a third time and you will be back to
theoriginaldisplay.

106
I

Trip Odometer
A trip odometer can tellyou

Warning Lights, Gages and
Indicators

howmanymilesyouhaveWarninglightsandgagescansignalthatsomethingis
driven since you last set it
wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an
back to zero. TOreset, push expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention
to
the
button.
your
warning
lights
and
gages
could
also
save you
or
others from injury.
Warning lights go on when there may beisora problem
with oneof your vehicle's functions.As you will see in
the details on the next few pages, some warning lights
come on briefly when you turn the ignition just
key to
let you knowthey'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
This section describes the warning lights and gages that with one of your vehicle's functions. Often gages and
are on your vehicle.The pictures willhelp you locate
warning lights work togetherto let you know when
them.
there's a problem with your vehicle.
When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on
when you are driving, or when one
of the gages shows
you
there may be a problem, check the section that tells
what to do about it. Please follow the manual's advice.
Waiting todo repairs can be costly-- and even
dangerous. So please getto know your warning lights
and gages. They're a big help.

107

Fuel Gage

At the gas station, the gas pump shutsoff before the
gage reads “F’.

It takes more (or less) gas to fill up than the gage
1/2 full, but it took
said. For example, the gage said
I

more - or less - than half ofthe tank’s, capacity to fill
it.

Engine Oil Pressure Gage andLight
When “LOW, comes on
there could be a problem
with your engine oil
pressure.

’
~

I
j

Your fuel gage isa bar graph. When you fill the tank,
the bar segments will light up. The fuel gage shows
tank. It works only when
about how much fuel is in your
the ignition is on. When the fuel gage shows only two
bar segments the“LOW’ light will come on.If the fuel
supply is in the one bar segment, the yellow warning bar
will flash to remind you to get more fuel soon.
You can also read your oil pressure directly from the
Here are concerns some owners have had about the fuel
gage.Allthesesituationsarenormalandindicategageonyourinstrumentpanel.
nothing wrong with the fuel gage.

108
~

When the “LOW OIL LEVEL” light comes onyou
should check your engineoil level andfill if necessary.
See Engine Oil in the Index.
There are three waysthe LOW light can come on
briefly. Those three are normal and don’t show a
problem. These three ways are:

could be low onoil, or you might have some other
oil problem.

CAUTION:
Don’t keep drivingif the oil pressure is low. If

109

Volts Gage and Light

Tachometer

When you turn the key to “Run,” the “LOW’ light will The tachometer tells you how fast the engine is going. It
in revolutions per minute (RPM).
come on briefly, to show that your alternator and battery displays engine speed
charging systems are working. If a light stays on, you
As engine speed increases, the bars light up on the
100 RPM. Do
needservice,andyoushouldtakeyourBuicktothetachometerdisplay.Eachbarrepresents
dealer at once. To save your battery until you get there, not operate your car’s engine in the red line range. If
you do, youcancausesevereenginedamage.
turn off allaccessories,andsetyourairsystemto
“OFF.”

110

Brake System Warning Light
1 Your Buick’s hydraulic
I

’

brake system is dividedinto
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.

This light willalso come on when you set your parking
brake, and will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t
release fully.If it stays on after your parking brakeis
fully released,it means you have a brake problem.
If the
off the road and stop
light comes on while driving, pull
carefully. You may notice thatthe pedal is harderto
push. Or, the pedal maygo closer tothe 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.)

IA
If the warning light goes on, there could be a brake
problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.
This light should comeon as you start the vehicle. If it
doesn’t come on then, haveit fixed so it will be ready to
warn you if there’s a problem.

CAUTION:

Your brake system may not be working properly
if the brake warning lightis on. Driving with the
to an accident.
brake warning light on can lead
If the light is still on after you’ve pulled
off the
road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle
towed for service.

111

Anti-Lock Brake System WarningLight

If the light stays on or comes on when you’re driving,
stop as soonas possible and turn the key off. Then start
the system. If the light still stays on,
1 With anti-lock, this light the engine to reset
or
comes
on
again
while you’re driving, your Buick
will go on when you start
needs service. Unless the regular brake system’ warning
your engine and may stay
light is also on, you will still have brakes, but not
on for several seconds or
anti-lock brakes.If the regular brake system warning
so.
light is also on,see “Brake System Warning Light”
earlier in this part.

i
I’

it fixed
That’s normal.If the light doesn’t come on, have
so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.

112

The anti-lock brake system warning light may also come
on when you are driving witha compact spare tire.If
this happens, the light means you won’t have anti-lock
until you replace the compact spare, with a full-size tire.
If the warning light stays on after you replace the
on
compact spare witha full-si.ze tire, or if it comes
again when you’re driving, your Buick needs service.

Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
Light and Gage

the engineoff as soon as
possible.
HOT COOLANT CANBURN YOU BADLY!
In “Problems onthe Road,” this manual shows what to
do. See “Engine Overheating” inthe Index.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service
Engine Soon Light)

A computer monitors operationof your fuel, ignition
and emission control systems. This light should come on
as
when the ignition is on, butthe engine is not running,
a check to show you itis working. If it does not comeon
at all, have it fixed right away.If it stays on, or it comes
on while youare driving, the computeris indicating that
you have a problem. You should take your vehicle in for
service soon.

113

Door Ajar Light
“DOOR AJAR” will light
to warn you that one of
your doorsis not shut
completely when you shift
out of PARK.

‘ElectricalProblem WarningLight

This light will come on if
an elecpical problem has
been detected. Have your
vehicle inspected by your
Buick dealer right away.

Hazard Warning Flasher

This light on your
instrument panellets you
know when you have the
hazard warning flashers on.

When the hazard flashersare on, your turn signals will
stop
not work. If you apply the brakes, the flashing will
until’yourelease the brake pedal. See “Hazard Warning
Flashers” in the Index for more information.

Service A/C
If this light stays on60
seconds or more, your air
conditioning system needs
service. It comes on as a
bulb cheek, wheneveryou
turn the ignition to “Run”.

Part 3

Comfort Controls & Audio Systems

your Bui& Comfort Control System
This part tells you how to make your air system work
:for you.
you
Fresh air from outside your vehicle flows through
Buick when the caris moving. When the vehicle is not
moving, you can get outside air to flow through by
selecting anyair choice (exceptthe rear window
defogger) and theHI fan speed.

Air Outlets
Adjust the direction of air flow by moving the louvered
vents.

YourBuickhas.anElectronicTouchClimateControl,
here's how' your system looks:

Off

Exterior Temp
Press this buttonto display
outdoor temperature. Press
it a.gah to return to the
regblar display. The outside
temperature will displayif
the systemis “OFF”.

When the systemis off, the
ventilatioh system will
alhw air to flow through
your Buick when the
vehi@eis moving. The
system w’illtry to keep the
.air at the chosen
temperature, unlessit is
very hot or very cold
outside.

119

Auto

To choose the temperature
you- want maintained inside
the vehicle, press theTEMP
A or for warmeror
cooler.

:.if,

pushed)

been

has
,..I .

a
-

You can choose from60 O F (1 6 "C), for maximum
cooling, and 90' F (33 "C), for maximum heating. It is
not necessary to choose the extreme temperature to get
the system to heator cool at the maximum. The system
does it automatically.

When the systemis set far
automatic, airwill come
from the floor outlets,the
instrument panel outlets or
both. Fan speed will vary
(unless a blowerLO or HI
button
as
the system gets to and
maintains the temperature
setting you have selected.

The display will show the selected temperature and
blower speed.
In cold weather the system will delay turning on the
blower, to avoid blowing cold air. The length
of the
delay dependson engine coolant temperature, outside
temperature and time since the engine was last started.
Pushing aLO or HI blower button will override this
delay, and will turn on the blower.

120

To rid the system of stale air in warm weather,air will
come out of the floor outlets for a short time.

Fan Speed
The speed of the blower fan is controlledautomancally'
if you have the fan
on AUTO.
However, if you want the blowerfan to run at a lower
speed, pushv.

If you want toraise the
blower speed, pushA .
The blower speed willgo
lower or higher withevery
push of the button until
the lowest or highest
speed is reached.

Bi-Level
H

This setting is designed for
use on sunny days where
the-air is only moderately
warm or cool. On days like
these, the sun may
adequately warm your
upper body, but your lower
body may not be warm
enough.

The Bi-level setting directs outside air into your vehicle
in two ways. Cool air is directed toward your upper
body through thefront instrument panel outlets,while
slightly warmed air is directed through
the heater outlet
at your feet.
The air conditioner compressor operates in all Air
Conditioned positions, and the Defrost position when
the outside temperature is above40 OF (8 C)

121

Econ

Heater
can
You
usewhen
this
JT~~E'
need
don't
temperature
theadjust
toand
cool the
system
The air.
outside
will work as-inthe AUTO
come will
cooling.
without
mode
air Thecome
will
from the
ingxument panel outlets

122

To
press
air,
warm
the

your forspeeds
and fan
comfort. Mostair
of the
floor
from the
outlets.

HTR

Rear Window Defogger

Defrost
This setting willdirect the
most air toward the
windshield. Use this when
there is fog or ice on the
windshield.

The lines you see on the
rear window will warmthe
glass. Pressthe button to
start warming your window.
After 10 minutes, it will go
off by itself, or by pressing
the button again will shut it
off. If you need additional
warming time, push the
button again.

Defrost will work better if you clear any
ice or snow
from theair inlet area between the hood and the
windshield.
Blower speed will be controlled automatically, or you
can choose another speed by pushing
the HI or LO
buttons.

If you have the outside
heated rearview mirror
option, the mirror heats
when the rear defoggeris
turned on.

Audio Systems

AM stations is greater thanfor FM,
Your Delco@ audio system has been designed to operateThe range for most
especially at night. The longer range, however, can
easily and give yearsof listening pleasure. But you will
cause stations to interfere with each other.
AM can pick
get the most enjoyment out
of it if youacquaint yourself
up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try
do
with it first. Find out what your DelcoQ system can
redu --lg the treble to reduce this noise.
and how to operateall its controls, to be sure you’re
getting the most outof the advanced engineering that
AM Stereo
went intoit.
This means theDelcoa system can receive C-QUAM@
FM Stereo
stereo broadcasts. ManyAM stations aroundthe country
FM stereo will give you the best sound. But FM signals use C-QUAM@ to produce stereo, though some do not.
(C-QUAM@ isa registered trademark of Motorola, Inc.)
will reach only about10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). And,
If your Delcoa system can get C-QUAM@, your
tall buildings or hills can interfere with
FM signals,
STEREO light will come on when you’re receiving
it.
causing the soundto come and go.
~

124

A CAUTION:
Hearing damagefrom loudnoise 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 safesound
level before your hearing adapts to it.
To help avoid hearing loss or damage:
Adjust the volume control to the lowest
setting.
Increase volume slowly until you hear
comfortably and clearly.

To Play This Radio

Itfrequency
recall
the
allows
toyou
radio
when
the
is playing.
It allows you to hear the other side of the tape. Press
the upper knob while cassette is playing.
~

!
I
I

Power
PresstheOn-Offbuttonto

Bal
The control behind the upper knob allows
you to
balance the sound between the right and left speakers.
The Lower Knob
Turn the lower knob to tune radio stations. Push it to get
AMor FM.
Fade
The control behind the lower knob moves
the sotifid
between your front and rear speakers.

Seek
Pressing the seek button will cause the receiver to seek
stop. andstation
highernext the

turn theradioOnorOff.

The Upper Knob
The upperknob does these things:
Scan
It controls the volume. Rotate clockwise to increase
When you press scan,the radio will go to the next
the volume.
station and pause and keep scanning until you press scan
It tells YOU the time. When the ignition is off, push to again.
display the time.

126

Pushbuttons

Clock

The four pushbuttons let you return to favorite
stations.
You can set the pushbuttons for up to fourteen stations
(7 AM and 7 FM).

To set the clock,

Tune inthe desired station.

Press the SET pushbutton. (SET appears in the
display.)

Within 5 seconds, push oneof the four pushbuttons.

0
0
0

Press the SET pushbutton.

Within 5 seconds, press and hold SCAN untilthe
correct hour appears on
the display.

Press and hold SEEK until the correct minute
appears on the display.

Treble
Whenever you press that button, the preset station
Slide the treble lever up to increase
the treble response.
will return. In additionalto the 4 stations setas
to
above, up to three additional stations may be preset If station is weak or noisy, slide the treble lever down
reduce the noise.
on each band by pressing two adjoining buttons at
the same time.
Bass
Tune in the station you want.
Slide the bass leverup to increase the bass response.
Press SET pushbutton. (SET appears in the display.) Adjust the bass lever to give a pleasing sound to your
ear.
Within 5 seconds, push any two adjoining
pushbuttons at the same time. (The station will return
DNR Q
when the same two buttonsare pressed again.)
This is the Dynamic Noise Reduction button. DNRQ
helps remove background hiss
from the radio or tape
player. You may want to leave it pushed in all the time.

127

To Play A Cassette

Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are Push the ~ J 3 m c Hbutton to the right.TO search for the
FWD. Push REV
beginning of the next selection, push
30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than
and the tape will reverse tothe beginning of the current
that areso thin that they may not work well in this
selection.
player.
With the radio on, push a tape
into the slot marked
Program
AUTO REVERSE (tapeside goes in first).
To go from one sideof the tapeto the other, pressthe
Once the tape is playing, use
the upper and lower knobs
upper knob.
for volume balance andfade just as youdo for the radio.
of the tape is being
The arrows indicate which side
Eject
played.
To remove the tape orstop the tape and switch to the
Your tapeplayerhasanAUTOREVERSEfeatureradio,pressEJECTbutton.,
which automatically plays the other side
of the tape after
the first side has played.

Forward
To advance the tape, press
FWD and the tape will
REV button
rapidly go forward until you press the
. .
lightly.
Reverse
To reverse the tape, press
REV and the tapewill rapidly
reverse untilyou press theFWD button lightly.

128

To Play This Radio

Tune
Press the topof the TUNE controlto tune in stations
the bottom to
higher on the AM or FM radio band. Press
tune in stations loweron the band.

Seek
Press the SEEK A or to search
the AM,orFM radio band.

forthe next station on

Scan
When you press scan,the radio will goto the next
station and pause and keep scanning until
you press scan
again.

Power
Press POWER toturn the unit onor off when the
ignition is ON.
Volume Control
Press the VOL control to increase or decrease the
volume. For the preset listeninglevel, press the center of
the VOL control.

Pushbuttons
The five (1-5) pushbuttons can be used to preset toup
ten radio stations(5 AM and 5 FM stations).
0 Tune in the desired station.
0 PushSET.
0 Within 5 seconds, push oneof the five pushbuttons.
Whenever you push that button,
the preset station
will return.
Repeat these steps for each pushbutton.

129

Setting The Clock

Bass

To set the clock:

Press the.BASS A or v to increaseor decrease bass
of
tones. For theBASS preset setting, press the center
the control.

Push SET (with the ignition on and the radio
off').
Within 5 seconds, push and hold SEEK A or until
the correct hour appears.
Press and hold SCAN until the correct minute
appears.

Recall
Press RCL to change the display between the clock and
the radio station frequency, when the radio isTo
on.
display the time with the ignition
off, press RCL.

AM-FM
Press the AM or FM buttons to select either theAM or
FM radio band. If the station is in stereo,
a STEREO
indicator will also be displayed.

Treble
Press the TREBA or v to increaseor decrease treble
tones. Press the centerof the TREB control for the
preset level.

To Play A Cassette
Tape equalization is automatically sensed and set.
Insertion of a ta e also automatically disables DNR@
and activates &-Dolby @ noise reduction. Note the
tape travel arrow. The tape will be traveling
in that
direction until it reaches the end and automatically
changes direction, or until
you press the PROG button.

Press POWER to turn the uniton. The radio will play
until a cassette is pushed into the cassette entry door
(the
Fade
tape side goes in first). Do not use tapes thatare longer
than 92 minutes (46 minutes on each side).
Press the topor the bottomof the FADE control to
adjust the balance between front and rear speakers. Press
the centerof the control to restore equal speaker sound Fwd (Forward)
balance. Balance between the left and right speakers is Press FWD to advance the tape rapidly. Press FWD or
preset andis not adjustable.
PROG again to play the tape. (The radio plays while
a
tape is advancing.)

130

Rev (Reverse)
Press REVto reverse thetape rapidly. Press REV or
PROG again to play the tape.
(The radio plays whilea
tape is rewinding.)

Rept (Repeat)
Press REPT to repeata selection onthe tape. Forthe
search to stop, there must beat least a 4-second gap
between selectionson the tape.The radio does not play
during REPT.

Cr02
Cr02 sets the tape
bias. When playing high bias chrome
or metal tapes, press theCr02 button (the button will
light). When playing standard tapes, press
Cr02 again .to
shut it off.

Ejet (Eject)
Press EJCTto remove the cassette from the tape player
(the radio will then play.) The tape will eject even when
the ignitionis off.

Prog (Program)
Press PROG to change the
side of the tape being played.
When the arrow pointing up is
lit, the selections listed
on the top side of the tapeare played. When the arrow
pointing downis lit, selections listed on the bottomside
of the tapeare played. When the endof a tape is
reached, the otherside will then play.
Seek
Press SEEK to search for the next selection. For the
search to stop, there must beat least a 4-second gap
between selections onthe tape. The radio does not play
during SEEK.

131

To Play This Radio

Tune
Press the topof the TUNE control to tune in stations
higher on the AM or FM radio band. Pressthe bottom to
tune in stations lower on the band.

Seek
Press the SEEK A or to search
the AM or FM radio band.

for the next station on

Scan
When SCAN is pressed, the radio will go the
to next
you press scan
station and pause and keep scanning until
again.

Power
stations
radio
Press POWER to turn the unit onoff
or when the
ignition is ON.
Volume Control
PresstheVOLcontroltoincreaseordecreasetheWhenever
volume.Forthepresetlisteninglevel,pressthecenter
the VOL control.

132

Pushbuttons
The five (1-5) pushbuttons can be used to preset up to
ten
( 5 AM and 5 FM stations).

e Tune in the desired station.
Push SET.
Within 5 seconds, push one of the five pushbuttons.
you pushthatbutton,thepresetstation
ofwill
return.
Repeat these steps for each pushbutton.

Setting The Clock

Equalizer

To set the clock:

Your equalizer enablesyou to adjustfive separate sound

Push SET (with the ignition on and the radio
off).

Within 5 seconds, push and hold SEEK A or until
the correct hour appears.

Press and holdSCAN until the correct minute
appears.

frequencies. Slide an equalizer control to
upemphasize
a frequency, downto de-emphasize it. It's best to begin
with all the controlsin the middle position,then adjust
each control asyou like.

To Play A Cassette

Tape equalizationis automatically sensed and set.
Recall
Insertion of a ta e also automatically disablesDNR@
Press RCLto change the display between the clock and and activates &-Dolby B@noise reduction. Note the
tape travel arrow. The tape will be traveling
in that
the radio station frequency, when the radiois on. To
direction untilit reaches the end and automatically
display thetime with the ignitionoff, press RCL.
changes direction, or untilyou press the PROG button.

AM-FM
Press the AM or FM buttons toselect either the AM or
FM radio band. If the stationis in stereo,a STEREO
indicator will also be displayed.

Press POWER to turn the'unit on. The radio will play
until a cassette is pushed into the cassette entry door (the
tape side goes infirst). Do not use tapes thatare longer
than 92 minutes (46minutes on each side).

Balance
Press theleft, right, front or rear speaker controls to
adjust speaker balance. Press the center
of the control to
restore equal speaker sound balance.

Fwd (Forward)
Press FWD to advance the tape rapidly. Press FWD or
PROG again to play the tape. (The radio plays while
a
tape is advancing.)

133

Rev (Reverse)

Rept (Repeat)

Press REV to reverse the tape rapidly. Press
REV or
Press REFT to repeat a selection on the tape.
For repeat ".
PROG again to play the tape. (The radio plays awhile to stop, there must be
at least a &second gap between
tape is rewinding.)
the selections on the tape.
Cr02

Ejct (Eject)
Press EJCT to remove the cassette from the tape player
(the radio will then
play.) The tape will eject even when
the ignition isoff.

This button sets tape bias. When playing high bias
0 2 button (the button
chrome or metal tapes, press the
0 2
will light).When playing standard "tapes, press
again to shut it off.

Prog (Program)

Press PROGto change theside of the tape being played.
When the arrow pointing upis lighted, the selections
listed onthe top side of the tapeare played. Whenthe
arrow pointing downis lighted, selections listed on the
bottom side of the tapeare played. When the endof a
tape is reached, the otherside will then play.

r""

Seek
Press SEEK to search for the next selection. For the
search to stop, there must atbeleasf a.4-second gap
between selectionson the tape. The radio does not play
during SEEK.

134

To Play a Compact Disc

If the disc comes back out and
"Err"appears on the
display, it could be that:
0

The disc isupside down.

It is dirty, scratched, or wet.

There's too much moisturein the air. (If there is,
wait aboutone hour andtry again.)

The disc player is too hot. If the disc player is very
hot, or if you're driving on a very rough road, the
disc may come out or not play.
As soon as things get
back to normal, thedisc should play.again.

n..

Before you begin, please note:DO NOT use mini-discs
that are called singles. They won't eject. Use full-size
compact discs only.
Press POWER to turn the system on.
Insert a disc part way into the slot, label side up. The
player will pullit in. Wait a few seconds and the
disc
should play.

Trak (Track)
Press and release TRAK to advance the disc to the
next track. (There must be,
at least a 4-second gap
between tracks.) PressTRAK 4 to reverse the disc to
the previous gap between tracks.
Rcl.(Recall)
Press RCLto see what track is playing. Press
it again
within 5 seconds tosee how long it has been playing.
The track numberalso appears when you change the
volume or whena new trackstarts to play.

135

Comp (Compression)

Care of Your Cassette Tape Player

Pressing the COMP button makes soft and loud passages
A tape- player that
is.not cleaned regularly can cause
more equalin volume.
reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes, ora damaged
mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored
in their
Scan
cases awayfrom contaminants, direct sunlight, and
extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate
Press SCANto hear the first ten secondsof each track.
properly or cause failure of the tape player.
Press it again to stop scanning.

stop
Press STOP and the disc will
stop and the radiowill
play. To return to thedisc, press STOP again. It will
resume playing at the point where
it stopped.
Ejct (Eject)
Press EJCT and the disc will eject and the radio will
play. The disc will startat track 1 when you reinsert the
disc.
Press the POWER button or turn ignition
off to stop the
disc player. The disc stays
in the player and will resume
playing at the point whereit stopped.

136

Your tape player should be cleaned regularly each
month or after every15 hours of use. Ifyou notice a
reduction in sound quality,try a known good cassette to
see if the tape or the tape player
is at fault. If this other
cassette has no improvement in sound quality, clean the
tape player.
Clean your tape player with
a wiping-action,
non-abrasive cleaning cassette, aild follow the directions
provided withit.

Care of Your Compact Discs

Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may
degrade over time. Always make sure thatthe cassette
tape is ingood condition before you have your tape
player serviced.

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.

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:
i

1. Turn on the ignition and radio to raise the antenna to
full mast extension.
2. Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits or
equivalent solvent.

137

3.. Wipe cloth overthe
mast sections,
removing any dirt.

Don’t lubricate the

could damage it.

4, W i p d r y with clean cloth before retracting.

5. Make the antennago up.and down by turning the
radio or ignition on andoff.

. 6 . Then repeat if necessary.

12P

If the mast portion of your antennais damaged, you can
easily replace it. See your dealer
for a replacement kit
and followthe instructibns in thekit.

WR0:NG
WAY

RED means STOP. It mayalso indicate that some
DO NOT
movement is not allowed. Examples are
ENTER and WRONG WAY.

c
Y

’
RAILROAD
ADVANCE
CROSSING

U
I!

NARROW
BRIDGE

‘

LOW
FLAGGER
SHOULDER

WORKERS
AHEAD

AHEAD

YELLOW indicates a general warning. Slow down and ORANGE indicates road construction or maintenance.
be careful when yousee a yellow sign. It may signal a
railroad crossing ahead, a no passing zone, or some
other potentially dangerous situation. Likewise, a yellow
solid line painted on the road means “Don’t Cross.”

You’ll want to slow down when you see an orange sign,
as part of the road may be closedoff or tom up. And
there may be workers and maintenance vehicles around,
too.

141

-1
HOSPITAL

INFORMATION

BLUE signs with white letters show motorists' services.

GREEN is used to guide the driver. Green signs may
indicate upcoming freeway exitsor show the direction
you should turnto reach a particularplace.

142

anape VI nvad Signs
The shape of the sign will tell you something, too.

I
SWIMMING

CANOEING

BROWN signs point out recreation areas or pointsof
historic or cultural interest.

iA7

"ST0P~1
.

An OCTAGONAL (eight-sided) sign meansSTOP.
It is always red with white letters.

143

A DIAMOND-shaped
sign is a warning of
something ahead-for
example, a curve, steep
hill, soft shoulder, or a
narrow bridge.

A TRIANGLE, pointed
downward, indicates
YIELD. It assigns the
right-of-way to traffic on
certain approaches toan
intersection.

A TRIANGULAR sign
also is used..on two-lane
roads to indicatea NO
PASSING ZONE. This
sign will be on the
left
side of the roadway.

u
KEEP
RIGHT

LEFT OR
THROUGH

[ ONLY j
RIGHT TURN
ONLY

RECTANGULAR (square or oblong) signs show speed
limits, parking regulations, give directions, and such
information as distances to cities.

Symbols on Road Signs

Traffic Lights
There are many international road signs
in use today.
The basic messageof many of these signs isin pictures
or graphic symbols.A picture within acircle with a
diagonal line acrossit shows whatnot to do.

1
'1

L
145

time. A green arrowmeans you may drive in that lane.
We’re all familiar with traffic lightsor stop lights. Often
Look for the signs posted to
warn drivers whathours
green arrowsare being used inthe lights for improved
traffic control. On some multilane roads, green arrows and days these systemsare in effect.
in one or more lanes can
light up, indicating that traffic
Pavement Markings
no
move or makea turn. Green arrows don’t mean “go
matter what.” You’llstill need to proceed with caution,
yielding the rightof way to pedestrians and sometimes
I
to other vehicles.
Some traffic lights also use red arrows
to signify that
you must stop before turning on red.

REVERSIBLE
LANE 0.N
MULTILANE
ROADWAY

Many city roads and expressways, and even bridges, use
A red X
reversible-lane traffic control during rush hours.
light above a lane means no driving
in that laneat that

NO
PASSING
ZONE

Pavement markings addto traffic signs and signals.
They give information to drivers without taking
attention fromthe roadway. A solid yellow line on your
side of the road or lane means “don’t cross.”

I
I

Your Own Signals

Defensive Driving

Drivers signal to others, too. It’s not only more polite,
it’s saferto let other drivers know what you
are doing.
And in some places the law requires driver signals.

The best advice anyone can give about driving
is: Drive
defensively.

urn and lane change signals. Always signal when
you
plan to turn or change lanes.
If necessary, you can use hand signals out the window:
Left arm straight outfor a left turn, down for slow or
about-to-stop, andup for a right turn.
Slowing down.If time allows, tap the brake pedal once
or twicein advance of slowing or stopping. This warns
the driver behind you.
Disabled. Your four-way flashers signal that your
vehicle is disabled oris a hazard. See “Hazard Warning
Flasher” in the Index.

Traffic Officer
The traffic police officer also
is a source of important
information. The officer’s signals govern, no matter
what the traffic lights or other signs say.
The next section discusses some
of the road conditions
you may encounter.

Please start with a very important safety device in your
Buick: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts”in the Index.)
Defensive driving really means “be ready
for anything.”
On city streets, rural roads, or freeways,
it means
“always expect the unexpected.”
Assume that pedestriansor other driversare going to be
careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might
do. Be readyfor their mistakes.
Expect children to dash out from behind parked cars,
often- followedby other children. Expect occupants in
parked cars to open doors into traffic. Watch
for
movement in parked cars -- someone may be aboutto
open a door.
Expect other driversto run stop signs whenyou are on a
through street.Be ready to brake if necessary as you go
through intersections.You may not have to use the
brake, butif you do, you will be ready.
If you’re driving througha shopping center parking lot
where there are well-marked lanes, directional arrows,
and designated parkingareas, expect some drivers to

147

ignore all these markings and dash straight toward one
part of the lot.

In general,
Pedestrians can be careless. Watch for them.
if you know you
you must give way to pedestrians even
have the right of way.
Rear-end collisionsare 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
Iknow when the vehicle in frontof you is going to brake
or turn suddenly.

Drunken Driving
Death and injury associated with drinking and driving
is
a national tragedy. It’sthe number one contributorto the
highway death toll, claiming thousands
of victims every
year. Alcohol takes awaythree things that anyone needs
to drive a vehicle:
Judgment
MuscularCoordination
Vision

Police records show that half
of all motor
Here’s a final bitof information about defensive driving. vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol- a driver, a
The most dangerous timefor driving in theU.S. is very
passenger or someone else, suchas a pedestrian, had
GM Research studies
early on Sunday morning. In fact,
been drinking. In most cases,these deaths are the result
show that the most and
the least dangerous timesfor
25,000
of someone who was drinking and driving. Over
driving, every week,fall on the same day. That day is
motor vehicle-related deaths occur each year because
of
Sunday. The most dangerous timeis Sunday from 3 a.m.
alcohol, and thousandsof people are injured.
to 4 a.m. The safest time is Sunday from10 a.m. to 11
Just how much alcohol too
is much if a person plans to
a.m. Driving the same distanceon a Sunday at 3 a.m.
drive? Ideally, no one should drink alcohol and then
it is at 10 a.m. It’s
isn’t just a little more dangerous than
It can be
drive. But if one does, then what’s “too mucli”?
about 134 times more dangerous!
a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on
That leads to the next section.
each person and situation, here is some general
information on the problem.

148

The Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)of someone who is
drinking depends upon four things:
0

How much alcohol is in the drink.

The drinker’s body weight.

The amount of food that is consumed before and
during drinking.

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

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

149

It’s the amount ofalcohol that counts. For example,
if
the same person drank three double martinis
(3 ounces
or 90 ml of liquor each) within anhour, the person’s
0.12 percent. A person who
BAC would be close to
consumes foodjust before or during drinking will have
a
,slightly lower BAC, level.

DRINKING THAT WILL
RESULT IN A BAC OF .05%
IN THE TIME

=
i:.

OF DRINKS
(as In picture)

’

‘IOURS

1 HOUR

‘t ,

-1 ,I ! j - / j

I’

120
100

140

160

180

200

BODY WEIGHT IN POUNDS

220

240

The law in mostU.S. states sets the legal limit
at a BAC
of 0.10 percent. In Canada the limit is0.08 percent, and
in some other countries it’s lower than that. The
BAC
will be over0.10 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.
But it’s very important to keep in mind that the ability to
drive is affected well belowa 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 effectsare worse at night. All drivers are
impaired at BAC levels above0.05 percent. Statistics
of being in an accident increases
show that the chance
sharply for drivers who havea BAC of 0.05 percent or
above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent (three
beers in one hour for a 180-pound or82 kg person) has
an accident. Ata
doubled his or her chance of having
BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chanceof that driver
having an accident is six times greater;
at a level of 0.15
percent, the chancesare twenty-five times greater! And,
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 thestreet? A person witha higher BAC
might not beable to react quickly enough to avoid the
collision.
There’s somethingelse 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. That’s especially truefor brain, spinal cord and
heart injuries. That means thatif anyone who has been
drinking -- driver or passenger-- is in a crash, the
chance of being killedor permanently disabledis higher
And we’ve
than if that person had not been drinking.
already seen that the chance
of a crash itself is higher
for
drinking drivers.

151

Braking

Control of a Vehicle

You have three systems that make your vehicle go where Braking action involves perception time and reaction
you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and time.
the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work First,
you have to decide to push on the brake pedal,
at the places where the tires meet the road.
That’s perception time. Then you have
to bring up your
foot anddo it. That’s reaction time.

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

152

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,
So do alcohol,
coordination, and eyesight all play a part.
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 surfaceof the road (whether it’s pavement or
gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire
tread; and the condition
of your brakes.
Most drivers treat their brakes with care. Some,
however, overwork the braking system with poor
driving habits.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in

spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy
braking -- rather than keeping pace ‘with traffic. This I
CAUTION:
is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool
between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much
“Riding” your brakes can cause them
to
faster if you do a lotof heavy braking.
overheat to the point that they won’twork well.
You might notbe ableto stopyour vehicle in
Don’t “ride” the brakes by letting your left foot rest
time to avoid an accident. If you “ride” your
lightly on the brake pedal while driving.
brakes, theywill get so hot they will require a lot

of pedalforce to slowyou down. Avoid “riding”
the brakes.

153

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 onthe brakes. Here’s what happens withABS.

A computer senses that wheels
are slowing down.The
computer separately worksthe brakes at each front
wheel andat the rear wheels.

You can steer aroundthe obstacle while braking hard.

As you brake, your computerkeeps receiving updates on
wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.

155

‘

I A CAUTION:
Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to
get your foot up to the brake pedal. 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, eventhough
you have anti-lock brakes.
.

A CAUTION:
The brake wear warning sound means that
sooner or later your brakes won’t work well.
That could lead to an accident. Whenyou hear
the brake wear warning sound, have your :~
&tz
vehicle serviced.

’,.

To Use Anti-Lock:
Don’t pump the brakes.
Just hold the brake pedal down
and let anti-lock work for you.
You may hear the
anti-lock pump or motor operate, and feel
the brake
pedal pulsate, but this is normal..

some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake
squeal when the brakesare first applied or lightly
Disc Brake Wear Indicators
applied. This does not mean something is wrong with
Your Buick has four-wheel disc brakes.
your brakes.
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a Brake linings should always be replaced
as complete
high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are
axle sets.
worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and
go orbe heard all the timeyour vehicle is moving (except
when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).

156

Brake Pedal Travel

Steering

See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return
to
normal height, orif there is a rapid increase in pedal
travel. This could bea sign of brake trouble.

Power Steering

Brake Adjustment

If you lose power steering assist because the engine
stops or the system fails to function, you can steer itbut
will take much moreeffort.

Every time you make a moderate brake stop, your disc
brakes adjust for wear.

Steering Tips

If you rarely make a moderate or heavier stop, then yourDriving on Curves
If you drive in that
brakes might not adjust correctly.
It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
way, then -- very carefully -- make a few moderate
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on
brake stops about every1000 miles ( 1600 km), so your
the
news happen on curves. Here’s why:
brakes will adjust properly.
Experienced driver or beginner, each
of us is subject to
Braking in Emergencies
the same lawsof physics when driving on curves. The
traction of the tires againstthe road surface makes it
Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to.
With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn
the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep
In many emergencies, steering can help
you more than
the vehicle goingin the same direction.If you’ve ever
even the very best braking.
tried to steer a vehicle on wet
ice, you’ll understand this.

The tractionyou 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.

157

158

either hand. Butyou have to act fast, steer quickly, and
you have
just asquickly straighten the wheel once
avoided the object.You must then be prepared to steer
back to your original lane and then brake to
a controlled
stop.
Depending on your speed, this can be rather violent
for
an unprepared driver. This is one of the reasons driving
experts recommend that you use your safety belts and
keep both hands on the steering wheel.

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

If the levelof the shoulderis only slightly below the
off the
pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease
accelerator and then, if there
is nothing in the way, steer
so that your vehicle straddlesthe edge of the pavement.
You can turn the steering wheelup to 1/4 turn until the
right fronttire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn
your steering wheel togo straight downthe roadway.

The fact that such emergency situations
are always
possible is a good reasonto practice defensive driving at
all times.

159

0
If the shoulder appears to be about four inches
(100
mm) or more below the pavement, this difference can
cause problems. If there is not enough room to pull
entirely onto the shoulder and stop, then follow the same
procedures. But if the right front tire scrubs against the
side of the pavement,do NOT steer more sharply. With 0
too much steering angle, the vehicle may
jump back
onto the road withso much steering input that it crosses
over into the oncoming traffic before you can bring
it
back under control.
Instead, ease off again onthe accelerator and steering
input, straddle the pavement once more, then try again.

Passing
The driverof a vehicle about to pass another on a
two-lane highway waitsfor 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
in
traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error
judgment, or a brief surrenderto 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:

160

“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.
Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings, and
lines. If you can see a signup ahead that might
A
indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass.
broken center line usually indicates it’s all right to
pass (providing the road aheadis clear). Never cross
a solid line on your
side of the lane or a double solid
line, evenif the road seems emptyof approaching
traffic.

If you suspect thatthe driver of the vehicle you want
horn a
to pass isn’t awareof your presence,, tap the
couple of times before passing.

Do not gettoo close tothe vehiclc 3u want to pass
while you’re awaiting an opportunny. For one thing,
following too closely reduces your area
of vision,
especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also,
if the vehicle ahead
you won’t have adequate space
suddenly slowsor stops. Keep back a reasonable
distance.
When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up,
start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t
so you will be
get too close. Time your move

Don’t overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly.
Even thoughthe brake lightsare not flashing,it may
be slowing downor starting to turn.

If you’re being passed, make
it easy for the
following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you
can ease alittle to the right.

Loss of Control
Let’s review what driving experts say about what
happens when the thee 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
of less
and constantly seek an escape route or area
danger.

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 typesof skids correspond to your Buick’s
three control systems. In the braking skid your wheels
aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid,
too

much speed or steeringin 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 andan acceleration skidare best
handled by easing your footoff the accelerator pedal.

make a “mirrored surface” -- and slow down when you
have any doubt.

(ABS) helps
Remember: Any anti-lock braking system
avoid only the braking skid. Steer the way you want to
go.

If your vehicle startsto slide (as when you turna corner
Driving at Night
off
on a wet, snow- or ice-covered road), ease your foot
the acceleratorpedal as soonas you feel the vehicle start
to slide. Quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to
go. If youstart steering quickly enough, your vehicle
will straighten out.As it does, straighten the front
wheels.
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.
try
While driving ona surface with reduced traction,
your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or
braking (including engine braking by shiftinga to
lower
gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide.
You may not realize the surface is slippery until your
Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One
-vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues
such as enoughewater,ice or packed snow on the road to reason is that some driversare likely to be impaired--

162
I

by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems,
or by
fatigue.
Here are some tipson night driving.
0

Drive defensively. Remember, thisis the most
dangerous time.

Don’t drink and drive. (See “Drunken Driving” in
the Index for more on this problem.)

Adjust your inside rearview mirror
to reduce the
glare from headlights behind you.

Since you can’tsee as well, you may need to slow
down and keep more space between you and other
vehicles. It’s hardto tell how fastthe vehicle ahead
is goingjust by looking at its tail’lights.

Whatyou do inthedaytimecanalsoaffectyournight
vision. For example, if you spend the day in bright
sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will
have less trouble adjustingto night.
But if you’re driving, don’t wear sunglasses
at night.
They may cut down
on glare from headlights, but they
also make a lotof things invisible that should remain
visible - such as parked cars, obstacles, pedestrians,or
even trains blocking railway crossings.
You may want to
put on your sunglasses after you have pulled into a
brightly-lighted serviceor refreshment area. Eyes
shielded from that glare may adjust more quickly
to
darkness back on the road. But
be sure to remove your
sunglasses before you leave the service area.

You can be temporarily blindedby approaching lights.It
Slow’’ down, especially on higher speed roads. Your can take a second or two, or even several seconds,
for
so much road ahead.
headlights can light up only
your eyesto readjust tothe dark. When youare faced
with severe glare(as from a driver who doesn’t lower
0 In remote areas, watchfor’animals.
the hi.gh beams,or a vehicle with misaimed headlights),
0 If you’re tired, pull off the road in a safe place and
slow down a little. Avoid staring directly into the
rest.
of opposing traffic,
approaching lights.If there is a line
make occasional glances over
the line of headlights to
Night Vision
make certain thatone of the vehicles isn’t starting to
move into your lane. Once you are past
the bright lights,
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as
give your eyes time to readjust before resuming speed.
we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old
driver may requireat least twice as much lightto see the
same thingat night as a 20-year-old.
0

163

contract repeatedly.You might even wantto keep a cloth
and some glass cleanerin your vehicle if you need to
clean your glass frequently.
Remember that your headlights lightup.far less of a
roadway when youare in a turn or curve.
Keep your eyes moving; that way, it’s easier to pick out
dimly lighted objects.
Just as your headlights should be checked regularly
for
proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly.
-- the inability
Some drivers suffer from night blindness
of it.
to see in dim light-- and aren’t even aware

164

Driving inthe Rain

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 isto see. Evenif your
windshield wiper bladesare in good shape, a heavy rain
can make it harderto see road signs and traffic signals,
pavement markings,the edge of the road, and even
people walking. Road spray can often be worse
for
vision than rain, especiallyif it comes from a dirty road.
So it is wise to keep your wiping equipment in good
shape and keep your windshield washer tank filled.
Replace your windshield wiper inserts when they show
signs of streaking or missing areas onthe windshield, or
from the inserts.
when strips of rubber start to separate

Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet
road you can’tstop, accelerate or turnas 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.

165

r/d

CAUTION:

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

I
1

Hydroplaning

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
Driving too fast through large water puddles or even
going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning,
going through some car washes can cause problems, too. it has little or no contact with the road.
The water may affect your brakes. Try
to avoid puddles.
But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them. You might not be awareof hydroplaning. You could
drive along for some time without realizing your tires
You could find
aren’t in constant contact with the road.
out the hard way: when you have to slow, turn, move out
to pass -- or if you get hit by a gust of wind. You could
suddenly find yourself outof control.
Hydroplaning doesn‘t happen often. But it can if your
tires haven’t much tread or if the pressure in one or

if the pressurein 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.

Driving in Fog, Mist and Haze
IIII

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, and be.
careful.

Some Other .Rainy Weather Tips
0

Turn on your headlights-- not just your parking
lights -- to help make you more visible
to others.
Look for hard-to-see vehicles corning from behind.
You may want to use your headlights even in
daytime if it’s raining hard.
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 preparedto have your view restricted
by road spray. If the road spray is
so heavy you are
actually blinded, drop back. Don’t pass until
conditions improve. Going more slowly
is better
than havingan accident.
Use your defoggerif it helps.
Have goodtires with proper tread depth. (See
“Tires” in the Index.)

Fog can occur with high humidity
or heavy frost.It can,
it for several
be so mild that you can see through
hundred feet (meters).Or it might be so thick that you
can see onlya few feet (meters) ahead. It may come
suddenly to an otherwise clear road. And
it can be a
major hazard.
When you drive into a fog patch,your visibility will be

reduced quickly. The biggest dangers
are striking the
vehicle aheador being struckby the one behind. Try to

167

Don’t use your high beams. The light will bounce
off
the water droplets that make
up fog and reflect back at
you.
Use your defogger.In high humidity, even a light
buildup of moisture on the insideof the glass will cut
Run your
down on your already limited visibility.
windshield wipers and washer ‘occasionally. Moisture
can build up on the outside glass, and what seems to be
fog may actually be moisture on the outside of your
windshield.

Try to find a place to
Treat dense fog as an emergency.
pull off the road. Of course you want to respect
another’s property, but you might need
to put something
between you and moving vehicles-- space, trees,
telephone poles, a private driveway, anything ,that
removes you from other traffic.
must stop but are
If visibility is near zero and you
unsure whether youare away from the road,tu_m your
lights on, start your hazard warning flasher, and sound
your horn at intervals or when you hear approaching
traffic.
Pass other vehicles infog only if you cansee far enough
ahead to pass safely. Even then, be prepared
to delay
your pass if you suspectthe fog is worseup ahead. If
other vehicles try to pass you, make it easy for them.

City Driving

One of the biggest problems withcity streets is the
amount of traffic on them.You’ll want to watch outfor
what the other driversare doing and pay attention to
traffic signals.

Obey all posted speed limits. But remember that they
are for ideal road, weather and visibility conditions.
in bad
You may need to drive below the posted limit
weather or when visibility is especially poor.

Pull to the right (withcare) and stop clear of
intersections when you see or hear emergency
vehicles.

169

'Freeway Driving

Entering the Freeway

the entering lane and
time your approach. Trylo merge
into the gapat close to the prevailing speed. Switch on
your turn signal, check your rearview mirrors as you
move along, and glance over your shoulder as often as
necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.

Driving on the Freeway

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

Once.you are on the freeway, adjust your speed
to the
posted limit orto the prevailingrate if it& slower. Stay
If you are on a
in the right lane unless you want to pass.
two-lane freeway, treat the right lane as the slow lane
and the leftlane as the passing lane.

If you are on a three-lane freeway, treat the
right lane as
the slower-speed throughlane, the middlelane as the
higher-speed throughlane, and the left fane as the
The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep passing lane.
up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive
at the same
Before changing lanes, check your rearview mirrors.
speed mostof the other driversare driving. Too-fast 'or
Then use yourturn signal.
too-slow driving breaksa smooth trafficflow. Treat the
left lane ona freeway asa passing lane.

170

start braking. If you must brakeon the through lane, and
if there is traffic close behind you, you can allow a little
extra time and flash your brake lights (in addition
to
your turn signal) as extra warning that youare about to
If you are moving from an outside to a center lane
on a
freeway having more than two lanes, make sure another slow down and exit.
vehicle isn’t aboutto move into the same spot. Look
at
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.
the vehicles two lanes over and watch
for telltale signs:
The exit spwd is usually posted. Reduce your speed
or moving
turn signals flashing, an increase in speed,
according to your speedometer, not to your sense
of
toward the edge of the lane.Be prepared to delay your
motion. After drivingfor any distanceat higher speeds,
move.
you may tendto think youare going slower than you
40 mph (65 h/h)
might
Once you are moving on
the freeway, make certain you
actually are. For example,
allow a reasonable following. distance. Expect to move seem like only20 mph (30 km/h). Obviously, this. could
slightly slower at night.
lead to serious troubleon a ramp designed for20 mph
(30 km/h)!
Just before youleave the lane, glance quickly over your
shoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle
in your
“blind” spot.

Leaving the Freeway

When you wantto leave the freeway, moveto the proper
lane well in advance. Dashing across lanes the
at last
minute is dangerous.If you miss your exitdo not, under
any circumstances,stop and back up. Drive on
to the
next exit.
At each exit point is a deceleration lane. Ideally
it
should be long enoughfor you to enter it at freeway
speed (after signaling,of course) and then do your
braking before moving onto the exit ramp.
Unfortunately, notall deceleration lanesare long enough
-- some are too short for allthe braking. Decide when to

Driving a Long Distance
Although most long trips today
are made on freeways,
on regular highways.
there are still many made
Long-distance driving on freeways and regular
highways is the same in some ways. Thetrip has to be
planned and the vehicle prepared, you drive
at
higher-than-city speeds, and thereare longer turns
behind the wheel. You’ll enjoy your trip more
if you and
your vehicle are in good shape. Hereare some tips fora
successful long trip.

171

BeforeLeaving on a Long Trip

Makesureyou’reready. Try tobewellrested. If you
-- such as after a day’s
must start when you’re not fresh
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.

Weather
Forecasts:
What’s
the
weather
outlook
along
your route? Shouldyou delay your trip a short time
toavoidamajorstormsystem?

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

Is your vehicle ready for a long trip?
If you keep it
serviced and maintained, it’s ready to Ifgo.
it needs
service, have itdone before starting out.Of course,
you’ll find experienced and
able service expertsin
Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be
ready and willing to help you
if need it.

Unless you are the only driver,it is good to sharethe
driving taskwith others. Limit turns behind the wheel to
about 100 miles (160 km) or two hours at a sitting.
Then, either change drivers
or stop for some refreshment
like coffee, tea or soft drinks and some limbering up.
But do stop and move around. Eat lightly along the way.
Heavier meals tend to make some people sleepy.

Here are some things you can check before a trip:
0 Windshield Washer Fluid:Is the reservoir full? Are
all windows clean inside and outside?
0 Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape!

Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checkedall
levels?

Lights: Are theyall working? Are the lenses clean?

Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,
trouble-free trip.Is the tread good enoughfor
long-distance driving? Are the tiresall inflated to the
recommended pressure?

172

On the Road

On two-lane highways or undivided multilane highways
that do not have controlled access, you’ll want to watch
for some situations not usually found on freeways.
Examples are: stop signs and signals, shopping centers
with direct access to the highway, no passing zones and
school zones, vehicles turning left and right off the road,
pedestrians, cyclists, parked vehicles. td even animals.

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, lackof awareness, or
whatever.

If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service,
There is something aboutan easy stretchof road with
or parking area and take
a nap, get some exercise,or
the same scenery, along with the hum
of the tires onthe
both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway
as
road, the droneof the engine, and the rush of the wind
an emergency.
against the vehicle that can make you sleepy. Don'tit let
happen to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the
As in any drivingsituation, keep pace with traffic and
road in less than a second. and you could crash and be
allow adequate following distances.
injured.
What can youdo about highway hypnosis? First, be
aware thatit can happen.

Hill and Mountain Roads

Then hereare some tips:
0

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

Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead andto
the sides. Check your rearview mirrors frequently
and your instruments from time
to time. This can
help you avoida fixed stare.'

Wear good sunglasses in bright light. Glare can
cause drowsiness. Butdon't wear sunglassesat
night. They will drastically reduce your overall
vision atthe very time you needall the seeing power
you have.
Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from
driving in flat or rolling terrain.

173

If you drive regularlyin steep country, orif you're
planning to visit there, here
are some tips that can make
your trips safer and more enjoyable.
0

Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid
levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and I
transaxle. These parts can work hard on mountain
roads.
I
Know how to go down hills. The most important
of the
thing to know is thisi let your engine do some
slowing down. Don't make your brakes
do it all.
Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep
or
long hill. That way, you will slow down without
excessive use of your brakes.

If you don't shift down, your brakes could get
11 so hot thatthey 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
,-d:;,,~~,."c.~,-~.:'-d0wnhi I I sf0pe
l~i~-~zg352~;~g~~g
i, , ~a,,.>~?&:.
,

/d CAUTION:

Coasting downhill in "N" (Neutral) or with the
ignition off is dangerous. Your brakeswill have
to do allthe work of slowing down. They could
get so hot that they wouldn't work well. You
could crash. Always have your engine running
and your vehicle in gear -]en yougo downhill.

I
0

Know how to go uphill. You may want
to shift down
to a lower gear.The lower gears help coolyour
engine and transaxle, and you can climb the hill
better.
Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane
roads in hills or mountains. Don't swing wide or cut
across the centerof the road. Drive at speeds that let
you stay in your own lane. That way, you won't be
in the
surprised by a vehicle coming toward you
same lane.
It takes longer to pass another vehicle when you're
going uphill. You'll wantto leave extra room topass.
If a vehicle is passing you and doesn't have enough
room, slow down to make
it easier for the other
vehicle to getby.

As you go over the topof a hill, be alert. There could
be somethingin your lane, like a stalled car or an
accident.

Parking on Hills

You may see highway signs on mountains that warn
of special problems. Examplesare long grades,
a falling rocks area, or
passing or no-passing zones,
winding roads. Bealert to these and take appropriate
action.
Winter driving can present special problems. See
“Winter Driving”in the Index.

Hills and mountains mean spectacular scenery. But
please be careful where you stop if you decide
to look at
the view or take pictures. Look
for pull-offs or parking
areas provided for scenic viewing.
Another part of this manual tells how to use your
parking brake(see “Parking Brake”in the Index). But
on a mountain or steep hill, you can do one more thing.
You can turn your front wheels to keep your vehicle
from rolling downhill or out
into traffic.

175

Parking Uphill
Parking Downhill

Turn your wheels to the right.
You don't have tojam your tires against the curb, if
there is a curb. A gentle contactis all you need.

176

If there isa curb, turn your wheels to the left
if the curb
is at the right sideof your vehicle.

If you're going uphillon a one-way street and you're
parking onthe left side, your wheels should point
to the
right.

If there is no curb when you're parking uphill, turn the
wheels to the right.
If there is no curb when you're parking uphillon the left
side of a one-way street, your wheels should be turned
to the left.

177

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 tractionor “grip” and will need to be very
careful.

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

179

traction of all.You can get “wet ice” when it’s about
freezing (32oF; O°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. 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.
Your anti-lock brakes improve your ability to make
a
hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have
the
anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping
dry pavement. See “Anti-lock”
sooner than you would on
in the Index.
Allow greater following distance on any slippery
road.
Watch for slippery spots. The road might befine until
you hit aspot that’s covered with ice. On an otherwise
in shaded areas
clear road, ice patches may appear
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
If you see a
when the surrounding roads are clear.
it.
patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on
Try not to brake while you’re actually on the ice, and
avoid sudden steering maneuvers.

180

If You’re Caught in a Blizzard
Y

..._
...

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.

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 was in your
vehicle. Clear awaysnow from around the ba !
of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking
your exhaust pipe-And check ar
from time to time to be sure snow
collect there.
Open awindow just a little onthe side of the
vehicle that’s away from the wind. This will heir
keep CO out.

CAUTION:

(Continued)

Run your engine onlyas long as you must. This saves
fuel. When you runthe engine, makeit go a little faster
than just idle. Thatis, push the accelerator slightly.This
uses less fuel forthe heat that you get and
it keeps the
battery charged.You will needa well-charged battery to
restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on
with your headlights. Let the heater run for awhile.

181

Hazard Warning Flashers

Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They
also let police know
you have a problem. Your front and
off.
rear turn signal lights will flash on and

Press the button in to make your front and rear turn
off.
signal lights flash on and

To turn off the flashers, pull out on the collar. When
the
hazard warning flashersare on, your turn signals won't

Your hazard warning flashers work
no matter what
position your key isin, and evenif the key isn't in.

work.

Other Warning Devices
If you carry reflective triangles, you can
set one up at
the side of the road about300 feet (100 m) behind your
vehicle.

185

Jump Starting

If your battery has run down, you may want to use

another vehicle and somejumper cables to start your
Buick. But please follow the steps below to do it safely.

Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous
because:
They contain acid thatcan burn you.
They contain ass that can explode or
ignite.
They contain enough electricity to burn
you.
If you don’t follow these steps exactly, someor
all of these things can hurt you.

cowered by your warrant
Trying to start your Buick by pushing or pulling
it won’t work, and it could damage your vehicle.

To Jump Start Your

-’

ick:

1. Check the other vehicle.It must have a 12-volt
battery with a negative ground system.

2. Get the vehicles close enoughso the jumper cables
can reach, but besure-thevehicles aren’t touching
each other.If they are, it could causea ground
connection you don’t want.You wouldn’t be able to
start your Buick, and the bad grounding could
damage the electrical systems.

I A CAUTION:

I A CAUTION:
u could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the
arking brake firmly oneach vehicle. Put an
utomatic transaxle in “P” (Park) or a manual
axle in “N” (Neutral).

An electric fan can start upeven when the
engine is not runningand can injure you. Keep
hands; clothing and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.

P
~~

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles.Turn off all
lights that aren’t needed, and radios. This
will avoid
sparks and helpsave both batteries. And it could
save your radio!

4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries.

Find the positive .(+)and negetive (-),terminals on
each battery.

A CAUTION:
Using a match near abattery can cause battery
gas to explode. People have beenhurt doing
this, and some have beenblinded. Use a
flashlight if you need more light.
Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t
need to add water to the Delco Freedom@
battery installed in every newGM 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 youdon’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 immedia y.

5. Check that theJumper cames don’t have loosewr
missing insulation.If they do, you could geta shock.
The vehicles could be damaged, too.

Before you connect the cables, here are some things
you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+)
and negative (-) will go to negative (-) or a metal
engine part. Don’t connect(+) to (-) or you’ll geta
short that would damage the batterv and maybe other
parts, too.

A CAUTION:
Fans or other moving engine parts can injure
you badly. Keepyour hands away from moving
parts once the engines are running.

I
* ;,*

. . ”,
,

,,
, ,
,, , ,

&&>>;&,3;\

6. Connect the red
positive (+) cable
to the positive(+)
terminal of the
vehicle with the
dead battery. Usea
remotepositive (+)
terminal if the
vehicle has one.

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

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

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

189

‘

9. Attach the cable at
least 18 inches (45
I
cm) awayfrom the
dead battery, but
not near engine
parts that move.
The electrical
.connectionis just
as good there,, but
‘the.chance of
sparks.getting back
1
to the battery is
much less.

1. 0.Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run
the engine for awhile.

11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery.
If it won’tstart after a few tries,it probably needs
service.

12.Remove the cablesin reverse order to prevent
electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch
each other or any other metal.

Towing Your Vehicle

Before youanything,
hazard
do
the
warning
on
turn
flashers.

Try to have a GM dealer ora professional towing
service tow your Buick. The usual towing equipment is When you call,
tell the towing service:
0 That your vehicle has front-wheel drive.
a sling-type (A) Or a wheel-lift (B) OrCar carrier (c)tow
truck.
.
The make, model, and year of your vehicle.
0

Whether you can still move the shift lever.

If there was an accident, what was damaged.
When the towing servicearrives, let the tow operator
-know that this manual contains detailed towing
instructions and illustrations. The operator may want to
see them.

If your‘vehiclehas been changed or modified since
it
was factory-new by adding aftermarket items like fog
lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these
instructions andillustrations may not be correct.

191

CAUTION: (Continued)
0 Never use “J” hooks. Use T-hooks
instead.

/!\ CA TlON:
To help-avok rjury to youor others:
Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that
is being towed.
Never tow fastt than safe or postec
speec
Nevertow ith damaged parts not fully
secured.
Never getunder your vehicle after it has
been lifted bythe tow truck.
Always use separate safety chains on
each.side when towing a vehicle.
CAUTION: (Continued)

When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key
off. The steering wheel should be clamped a.in
straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed
for towing service.Do not usethe vehicle’s steering
column lock for this. The transaxle should be in Neutral
and the parking brake released.

192

A CAUTION:
A vehicle can fall froma car carrier if it isn’t
properly secured. This can cause acollision,
serious personal injury and vehicle damage.
The vehicle should be tightlysecured with
chains or steel cables before it is transported.
Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps,
canvas webbing, etc.) that can be cut bysha
edges underneath the towed vehicle.

193

Attach a separate safety
chain around the outboard
end of each lower control
arm.

Position a 4" x 4" wood beam across the sling chains
contacting the forward extensions
of the engine cradle.
,

Position the lower sling crossbar halfway between the
timber and the lower edge facia.
of

Engine Overheating
You willi find a coolant temperature gage and
the
warning light abouta hot engineon your Buick
instrument panel.

If Steam Is Coming FromYour Engine:

A CAUTION:

Steam from an overheatedengine can burn you
badly, evenif you justopen 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
opening 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.

If No Steam Is Coming FromYour Engine:
If you get the overheat warning but
see or hear no
steam, the problemmay not be too serious. Sometimes
the engine can get
a little too hot when you:
Climb a long hill on a hot day.
Stop after high speed driving.
Id.le for long periods in traffic.
If you get the overheat warning with no sign
of steam,
try this fora minute or so:
1. Turn off your air conditioner.
2. Turn on your heater tofull hot at the highest fan
speed and open the window as necessary.
3. Try to keep your engine under load (ina drive gear
where the engine runs slower).

If you no longer havethe overheat warning, you can
drive. Just to besafe, drive slower for about ten minutes.
If the warning doesn't come back on, you can drive
normally.

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

If~thewarning continues, pull over,stop, and park your
vehicle right away.
If there's still nosign of steam, you can idle the engine
for two or three minutes whileyou're parked, tosee if
the warning stops. But then,if you still have the
warning, TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND GET
EVERYONE OUT OF THE VEHICLE until it cools
down.

197

When you decide it’s safeto lift the hood, here’s what
you’ll see:
Coolant recovery tank
Radiator pressure cap
Electric engine fan

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

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

198

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

- - #

.':

..~

/I
I_

A 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 allcoolant. That could
cause an engine fire, and you could be burned.
Get anyleak fixed before you drivethe vehicle.

I
1

A CAUTION:
Adding only plain water to your cooling system
can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other
liquid likealcohol, can boil before the proper
coolant mix will. Your vehicle's coolant warning
system is set for the proper coolant mix. With
plain water or the wrong mix, 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
5060 mix of
clean water and a proper antifreeze.

CAUTION:

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

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank
is at or
above “FULL COLD,” start your vehicle.

If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more
thing you can try. You can addthe proper coolant mix
directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is
cool before you do it.

A CAUTION:
Steam and scalding liquids froma hot cooling
system can blow out and burn youbadly. They
are under pressure, and if you turnthe radiator
pressure cap even a little they can come out I
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 haveto
$@.:;<;J
&gjK&p
turn the pressure cap.

s
a,

A d

How to Ad,d Coolant to the Radiator
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 to the left until it first stops.
(Don't press down while turning the pressure cap.)
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop.A hiss means
there is still some pressure left.

202

keep turning
12. Then
the pressurecap,
but now push down
as you turn it.
Remove the
pressure cap.

3. Fill the radiator
with the proper
mix, up to the base
of the filler neck.

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to “FULL
COLD.’3

5. Put the cap back onthe coolant recoverytank, but
leave the radiator
pressure
cap

off.

6. Start the engine and letit run until you can feel the
upper radiator
hose getting hot.
Watch out forthe
engine fan.
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 mix throughthe filler neck until
the level reachesthe base of the filler neck.

203

If a Tire Goes Flat
It’s unusual for a tireto “blow out” while you’re driving,
If air goes
especially if you maintain your tires properly.
out of a tire, it’s much more likely to lepk out slowly.
But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few
tips about what to expect and what to do:

If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that
off the
pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot
accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly.
Steer to maintain lane position, then gently brake to a
stop well out of the traffic lane.

8. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a
skid and may require the same correction you’d usea in
the pressure cap line up like this.
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
off the road if possible.
brake to a stop, well
If your tire goes flat, the next section shows how to use
your jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely.

204
____

91
Changing a tire can cause aninjury. The vehicle
can slip off the jack and roll over you or other
people. You and they could be badly injured.
I 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 “P” (Park).
3. Turn off the engine.
I To be even more certain the vehicle won’t move,
you can put chocks 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

To remove the wire wheel
cover, remove the centerof
the wheel cover by using
the wire wheel key wrench.

The equipment you'll needis in the trunk.

If your Buick hasa wire wheel coverit must be removed
to access the wheel nuts.

.i
'

Put the flat end into the
notch and carefully pry
off the small cover.

i
1

” ,,.

‘I’

Remove the lock nut
by inserting the key
wrench into the ,hole in
the: centerof the wheel
,coverand turn it
q1ockwis.e to loosen the
lock nut completely.

If your Buick has aluminum wheels, thereare no wheel
covers that have to be removed.
Now you are ready to start using the
jack and wheel
wrench to raise your vehicle. Using
the wheel wrench,
loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove them yet.

207

1 -

Position the jack under the
vehicle. There isa notch in
thk frame near eachof the

A CAUTION:
Getting under a vehicle when itis jacked up is
dangerous. If the vehicle slipsoff the jack, you
could be badly injuredor kill,ed. Never get under
a vehicle when itis supported only by a jack.

Raise the vehicleby rotating the wheel wrench
off the ground
clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough
so there is enough room
for the spare tireto fit.
Remove all the wheel nuts and take
off the flat tire.

20s

A CAUTION:
Rust ordirt onthe wheel, oron the parts to
which it is fastened, can makethe wheel nuts
become loose after a time. The wheelcould
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 papertowel to dothis; but be sure to use a
scraper or wire brushlater, if youneed to,to get
all the rust or dirt off.

Remove any rustor dirt from the wheel bolts,
mounting
surfaces or sparewheel.

Place the spareon the
wheel .mounting
surface.

' Replace the wheel nutswith
the rounded-endof the nuts
toward the wheel. Tighten'
each nutby hand until the
wheel is held against the
hub.
'

,
/r\

Lower the vehicleby rotating the wheel wrench
counterclockwise.Lowerthe jack completely.

CAUTIO'N:

Never use ail or grease on studs 1 nuts. If you
d,o,the nuts might !cornel~oose.Your w,heel
muld fall 'off, causing a serious accident.

Tighten the wheel nuts
firmly in a criss-cross
sequence as shown.

A CAUTION:
Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened
wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become
loose and even comeoff. This could lead to an
accident. Besure to use the correct wheel nuts.
If you have to replace them, be sure to get the
right kind.
Stop somewhere assoon as you can and have
the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 100
ft. Ibs. (140.m).

Don't try to puta wheel cover on your compact spare
in the trunk until
tire. It won't fit. Store the.whee1 cover
you have the flattire repaired or replaced.

Now put all the equipment back securelyin the trunk.

Compact Spare Tire
Although the compact spare was fully inflated when
your vehicle was new, it can lose
air after a time. Check
60 psi (420
the inflation pressure regularly. It should be
kPa). The compact spare is made
to go up to 3,000 miles
(5000 km), so you can finish yourtrip 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.

Your anti-lock brake system warninglight may comeon
when you are driving with a compact spare. See
“Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

212

A CAUTION:
Storing a jack, a tire,
or other equipment in the
passenger compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden .stopor collision,
loose equipment could strike someone. Storeall
these in the proper place.

Don’t useyour compact spare onsome other vehicle.
And don’t mix^ your compact spareor wheel with other
wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your
spare and its
wheel together.

213

If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or
Snow
What you don’t wantto do when your vehicleis stuck is
as “rocking”
to spin your wheels. The method known
can helpyou get out when you’re stuck, but you must
use caution.

A CAUTION:
If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can
explode and you or others could be injured.
And, the transaxle or other parts of the vehicle
can overheat. Thatcould cause an engine
compartment fire or other damage. Whenyou’re
stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible.
Don’t spin the wheels above35 mph (55 km/h)
as shown on the speedometer.

....................................................
f i e l . . ... ....... ,. ......................................
*

.I..

;,.

.~.
.................... -21.a
.,.,............i.:.. .:.. . . .zLv,
.

A CAUTION:
You can beinjured if you tryto do service work
on a vehicle without knowing enough about it.
@ Be sure you have sufficient knowledge,
experience, andthe proper replacement
parts and tools before you attempt any
,
vehicle maintenance task. .;gg@b%j.g
@fijy+;
Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and
other fasteners. "English" and "metric"
fasteners can be easily confused.
If you
use the wrong fasteners, parts can later
"
V
>pI &.

&~-*.,~<+@

%,.,!+:<$$

."C.L..

Fuel
Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at87 octane or
higher: It should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in
the U.S. and CGSB 3.5.92 in Canada. These fuels
should have the proper additives,so you should not have
to add anythingto the fuel.
Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at
87 octane or
higher. It should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in
the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels
should havethe proper additives,so you should not have
to add anything to
the fuel.

What about gasoline with blending materials that
contain oxygen, suchas MTBE or alcohol?
MTBE is “methyl tertiary-butyl ether.” Fuel that is
no
more than 15% MTBEis fine for your vehicle.
Ethanol is ethyl or grain alcohol. Properly-blended fuel
that is no more than 10% ethanol is fine for your
vehicle.
Methanol is methyl or wood alcohol.

In the U.S. and Canada,it’s easy to be sure you get the
right kindof gasoline (unleaded). You’llsee
“UNLEADED” right onthe pump. And only unleaded
nozzles willfit into your vehicle’sfiller neck.
Be sure the posted octane is at least 87.If the octane is
less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when
you drive. If it’s bad enough,it can damage your engine.
If you’re using fuel ratedat 87 octane or higher and you
still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service.
But don’t worry if you hearlittle
a pinging noise when
you’re accelerating or drivingup a hill. That’s normal,
and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel
to get rid
of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means
you have a problem.

217

Gasolines for Cleaner Air
Your use of gasoline with detergentadditives will help
prevent deposits from forming
in your engine and fuel
system. That helps keep your engine in tune and your
emission control system working properly. It’s good
€or
your vehicle, and you’ll be doing your part
for cleaner
air.

Fuels in Foreign Countries

If you plan on driving in another country outside the
U.S. or Canada, unleaded fuel may be hard
to find. Do
not use leaded gasoline. If you use even one tankful,
your emission controls won’t work well or at all. With
continuous use, spark plugs can get fouled, the exhaust
system can corrode, and your engine oil can deteriorate
Many gasolines are now blended with materials called quickly. Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor will be damaged.
oxygenates. General Motors recommends that you use All of that means costly repairs that wouldn’t be covered
by your warranty.
gasolines with these blending materials, such
as MTBE
and ethanol.By doing so, you can help cleanthe air,
To check on fuel availability, ask an
auto club, or
of the country that have high
especially in those parts
contact a major oil company that does business in the
carbon monoxide levels.
country where you’ll be driving.
In addition, some gasoline suppliers are now producing You can also write usat the following address for
reformulated gasolines. These gasolines are specially
advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your
designed to reduce vehicle emissions. General Motors
Vehicle Identification Number(VIN).
recommends that you use reformulated gasoline.
By
General Motorsof Canada Ltd.
doing so, you can help cleanthe air, especiallyin those
International Export Sales
parts of the country that have high
Ozone levels.
P.O.Box 828
You should ask your service station operators if their
Oshawa, Ontario L1H7N1, Canada
gasolines contain detergents and oxygenates, and if they
have been reformulatedto reduce vehicle emissions.

218

A CAUTION:

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

The release button is in the
glove box.

219

Or you can use the release
lever in the trunk.

While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door.

To take off the cap, turn it slowlythe
to left
(counterclockwise).

220

UD
Push up on the secondaryhood release lever, then lift
the hood.

Then go to the front
of the vehicle and locate the
front
secondary hood release. It is located under the
edge of the grill.

A CAUTION:

An electric fan under the hood can start upand
injure you even whenthe engine is not running.
Keep hands,clothing and tools away from a--underhood electric fan.

Things that burn can get on hotengine parts
and start a fire. These include liquids like
gasoline, oil, coolant, brakefluid, windshield
washer and otherfluids, and plastic or rubber.
You or others could be burned.Be careful not to
drop or spill thingsthat will burn ontoa hot
engine.

Before closingthe hood, be sureall the filler caps are on
properly.
Then just pull the hood down and close
it firmly.

Engine Oil

To Check Engine Oil: Pull

It’s a good ideato 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.

I.ii’

”

out the dipstickandclean it
with a paper towel or cloth,
then push it back in all the
way. Remove it again,

The engineoil dipstick.is
directly behindthe engine
fan..

Turn off the engine and
give theoil a few minutes
to drain back into the
oil
pan. If you don’t,the oil
dipstick might not show the When to Add Oil: If the oil isat or below the ADD
mark, then you’ll needto add someoil. But you must
actual level.
of oil
use tlwright kind. This section explains what kind
to use. For crankcase capacity,see “Capacities and
Specifications” in the Index.

’

Add engine oil at the engine oil
fill cap next to the oil
dipstick.
Just fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the
proper operating range. Push the dipstick the
all way
back in when you’re through.

What Kind of Oil to Use:
Look for three things:

“SG’ must be on the oil container, eitherby itself or
combined with other quality designations, such
as
“SG/CC,” “SG/CD,” “SF,SG,CC,” etc. These letters
show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels
of
quality.

225

S A E 1OW-30

RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY BRADE ENGINE: OILS
FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COW STARTlW6, SELECT THE LOWEST
SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE.
'

LOOK
FOR THIS
LABEL

HOT
WEATHER
r

-100 '

+a0

+3a

. +27

+60

,+16

+40

+20

-7

- 18

$+';J
These numbers onan oil container show its viscosity, or
@
thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils suchas SAE

-SAE 10W.30
PREFERRED
above 0°F
(-18°C)

WEATHER

226

As shown in the viscosity chart,S A E 1OW-30 is best
for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE5W-30
if it's going to be colder than
60 O F (16 C) before
your next oil change. When it's very cold, below
O*F (-18*C), you should use SAE 5W-30.

IF NEITHER SAE 5W-30 NOR SAE 1OW-30
GRADE OILS ARE AVAILABLE, SAE 30
GRADE MAY BE USED AT TEMPERATURES
ABOVE 40 DEGREES F (4 DEGREESC).
DO NOT USE SAE 1OW-40, SAE 2OW-50 OR
ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED

1OW-40 or SAE 20W-50.
0 Energy Conserving I1
Oils with these words onthe container will help you
save fuel.
This doughnut-shaped logo (symbol) is used on most oil
containers to help you select the correct oil.
You should look for this on the oil container,
and use
only those oils that display the logo.
GM Goodwrench@oil (in Canada, GM Engine Oil)
meets all the requirements for your vehicle.
Engine Oil Additives:Don't add anything to your oil.
if you think
Your Buick dealer is ready to advise
something should be added.

When to Change Engine Oil: See if any one of these is
true for you:
Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km).

What to Do with Used Oil:

a It’s below freezing outside and most trips are less
than 10 miles (16 km).
0

The engine is at low speed mostof the time (as in
door-to-door delivery, orin stop-and-go traffic).
Most trips are through dusty places.

If any oneof 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 comes first.
If none of them is true, changethe oil every7,500 miles
(12 500 km) or 12 months -- whichever comes first.
Change the filterat the first oil change andat every
other oil change after that.
Engine Block Heater: An engine block heater canbe a
big helpif you have to park outside in very cold
weather, -20 O F (-29 C ) or colder. If your vehicle has
this option, see ?Engine Block Heater”in the Index.

Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you
change your own oil, besure to drain all free-flowing oil
from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose
of oil
by pouring it on the ground,into sewers, or into streams
or bodies of water. Instead, recycleit by taking itto 2
place that collects usedoil. If you have a problem
properly disposingof your used oil, ask your dealer, a
service station or a local recycling center
for help.

227

Air Cleaner

A CAUTION:
I

Operating the engine with the air cleaner 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 couldbe burned. Don’t
drive withit off, and be careful working on the
engine with the air cleaner off.

the air cleaneris off, a backfire can cause a

As you face the front of the vehicle, the air cleaner in
is
the front right section
of the engine compartment. There
is a filter inside the air cleaner.
Refer to -the Maintenance Schedule
to detemine when
to replace the air filter.
See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

228

Automatic Transaxle Fluid
When to Check and Change:
A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid
level is when the engine oil is changed. Refer to the
to change
Maintenance Schedule to determine when
your fluid. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in
the Index.
How to Check:
Because this operation can be little
a difficult, you may
choose to have this done at a Buick dealership Service
Department.
If you do it yourself,be sure to follow allthe
instructions here, oryou could get afalse reading on the
dipstick.

Then, without shuttingoff the engine, follow these
stem:

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

2. Push it ‘backin aa the way, wait three seconds and
I

:thenpull it back out again.

3. Check both sides ofthe
dipstick, and readthe
lower level. Thefluid
level mustbe . i n the
cross-hatched mea.

4. If the fluid level is whereit should be, push the
dipstick back in all the way.

How to Add Fluid:
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what
kind of transaxle fluid touse. 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. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than a
pint. D,on’t overfill. We recommend you use only fluid
labeled DEXRONB-IIE, because fluids with that label

230
I

are made especiallyfor your automatic transaxle.
DEXRONs-IIE is
Damage caused by fluid other than
not covered by your new vehicle warranty.
After adding fluid, recheck the fluidlevel as
described under“How to Check.”
When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the
dipstick backin all the way.

Engine Coolant
The following explains your cooling system and
how to
add coolant whenit is low. If youhave a problem with
engine overheating, see “Engine Overheating” in the
Index.
The proper coolantfor your Buick will:
Give freezing protection downto -34’F (-37 ’C ) .
0

Give boiling protection up
to 262 ’F (128’C) .
Protect against rust and corrosion.
Help keep the proper engine temperature.

Let the warning lights work as they should.

What to Use:
Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably
distilled) and one-half antifreeze that meets “GM
Specification 1825-M,” which won’t damage aluminum
parts. Use GM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) with
any complete coolant change.
You can also use a
recycled coolant conformingto “GM Specifications
1825-M” witha complete coolant flushand-refill.If you
use these, you don’t need to add anything else.

Adding only plain water to your cooling system
can be dangerous.Plain water, or some other
liquid likealcohol, can boil before the proper
coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warnin!
system is set for the proper coolant mix. With
plain water or the wrong mix, your engine coul
get too hot but youwouldn’t get the overheat
warning. Your engine could catch fire and you
or others could be burned. Use a50150 mix of
clean water and a proper antifreeze.

231

Adding Coolant
The engine coolant
recovery tank is locatedat
the leftof the engine
compartment.

To Check Coolant: When
your engine is cold, the
coolant level should beat
“FULL COLD,” or a little
higher. When your engineis
warm, the level should be
up to “FULL HOT,” or a
little higher.

To Add Coolant: If you need more coolant, add the
proper mixat the coolant recoverytank.

232

Radiator Pressure Cap

A CAUTION:
Turning the radiator pressure cap when the
engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and
scalding liquids to blow out and burn youbadly.
With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost
never haveto add coolant at the radiator. Never
turn the radiator pressure cap even alittle -when the engine and radiator are hot.

Add coolant mixat the recovery tank, but be careful not When you replace your radiator pressure cap,
an ACS
to spill it.
cap is recommended.

Thermostat

A CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spillcoolant on hot
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol,
and it will burn ifthe engine parts are hot
enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.

Engine coolant temperatureis 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, an AC@ thermostat
is recommended.

233

PowerSteering Fluid

I
i
~

:
~

What to Add:
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule
to determine what
kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants” in the Index.

How To Check Power SteeringFluid:
Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove
the cap again and lookat the fluid level on the dipstick.
When the engine compartment is hot, the level
should beat the “HOT” mark.
When the engine compartment is cool, the level
should beat the “FULL COLD” mark.

Windshield Washer Fluid
To Add:
P

Open the cap labeled “WASHER FLUID ONLY.” Add
washer fluid until the bottleis full.

Brake Master Cylinder

you’ll have too much fluid when
you get new brake
linines. You should add (or remove) brake fluid,
as
necessary, only when work is done on the brake
hydraulic system.
U

your brake master cylinder
is here. It is filled with
DOT-3 brake fluid.

I A CAUTION:
If you have too much brakefluid, it can spill on
the engine. Thefluid will burn if the engine is
hot enough.You or others could be burned,arr’
your vehicle couldbe damaged. Add brakeflutu
only when workis done on the brake hydraulic
system.

When your brake fluid fallsto a low level, your brake
on. See
System
Warning
There are only
two
reasons
why
the
brake
fluid
level
in
light will
your master cylinder might go down. The first is that the Light,’
in the Index,
brake fluid goes down an
to acceptable level during
normal brake lining wear. When new linings are in,
put
up. The other reasonis that
the fluid level goes back
fluid ’is leaking out
of the brake system. If it is, you
should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means
that sooner or lateryour brakes won’t work well, or
won’t workat all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “topoff’
your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a
leak. If you add fluid when your linings
are worn, then

236

What to Add:
When you do need brakefluid, use only DOT-3 brake
fluid -- such as Delco Supreme 11 (GM Part
No.1052535). Use new brake fluid from a sealed
container only.

Parts
System
Replacing
Brake
The braking system on a modern vehicleis complex. Its
of top quality and work well
many parts have to be
together if the vehicle is to have really good braking.
Vehicles we design and test have top-quality GM brake
parts in them,as your Buick does whenit is new. When
you replace partsof 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 genuine
GM replacement parts.If you don’t, your brakes may no
if someone puts in
longer work properly. For example,
brake linings thatare 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
Every new Buick has a Delco
Freedoms battery. You
never have to add water to one
of these. When it’s time
for anew battery, we recommend a DelcoFreedoma
battery. Getone that has the ‘catalog number shown on
the original battery’s label.
h

237

Vehicle Storage

Halogen Bulbs

If you’re not going to drive your vehicle
for 25 days or
-more,take off the black, negative(-) cable from the
.battery. This will help keep your battery from running
:down.

A CAUTION:;
I

Batteries haveacid that can burn you and gas
that can explode.You can be badlyhurt ifyou
aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting’’ in the Index
for tipson working around a battery without
getting hurt.

Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle
:for longer storage periods.

238

I A CAUTION:

Halogen bulbs have pressurized gasinside and
can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or
others could be injured.Take special care when
handling and disposing of halogen bulbs.

Headlamp Bulb Replacement
access cover and turn each
’ of the access cover retainers
1/4 turn and liftthe cover
1

Off.

Remove the wire
connector from the bulb
by lifting the lock tab and
pulling it away from the
plastic base.

The bulb socket canDe accessed, turn the bulb socket
1/4 turn counter-clockwise, while pressing it firmly.

239

To reassemble: Attach the wire connector(A) to the
$astic base making sure the locktab (B) is over the lock
(C). Install the bulb by puttingthe small tab (D) in the
small notch in the lamp (E). Turnthe bulb socket 114
turn clockwise to lock
into place. Replace the access
cover.

240

Using aPhillips@
screwdriver remove the
long screws.

d,T&*

g&@
* *'.
1

. -

Remove the bulb socketby squeezing the plastic lock
and turningit counterclockwise.

Carefully pullthe lamp away from the vehicle.

241

Removethebulbfrom
the
bulb socket by turningit
counterclockwise.

Loading Your Vehicle

TIRE-LOADING INFORMATION,
OCCUPANTS
VEHICLE CAP. WT.
RR.
CTR.
FRT.
TOTAL LBS.
KG
MAX. LOADING & GVWR SAME AS VEHICLE
CAPACITY WEIGHT
XXX
COLD TIRE
TIRE SIZE
PRESSURE
SPEED
PSI/KPa
RTG
FRT.
RR.
SPA.
IF TIRES ARE HOT, ADD 4PS1128KPa
SEE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION
p1?j$##..:,

Install
a
new into
bulb
the socket
clockwise
turning
it
(right) until it is locked in place. Insert the socket into
the lamp and turnit clockwise (right) to lock it into
Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it
place. Reverse the instructions to replace the taillamp
may properly carry. The Tire-Loading Information label
assembly.
found on the rear edge ofthe 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 weightof all occupants, cargo, and all
nonfactory-installed options.

242

Isl

MFD BY GENERAL MOTORS CORP
DATE
GVWR
GAWR
FRT
GAWR

THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE US. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE
SAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTION
STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF
MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE.

ur vehicle any heavier than the
:imum front and rear GAWRs.
1 your vehicle can break,
or it
lay your vehicle handles.
;e youto lose control. Ako,
;horten thelife of your vehicle.

@iwlIk$#d!!i
The other label is the Certification label, found on the
gross
rear edgeof the driver’s door. It tells you the
weight capacity of your vehicle, calledthe GVWR (Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating). TheGVWR 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 frontor rear axle.
And, if you do have a heavy load,
YOU should spread it
out. Don’t carry more than150 pounds (68 kilograms) in
your trunk.

If you put things inside your vehicle-- like suitcases,
tools, packages, or anythingelse -- they will go as fast
as the vehicle goes.If you have tostop or turn quickly,
or if thereis a crash, they’ll keep going.

243

I
T

A?!, CAUTION:

CAUTION:

1 Things you put inside your vehicle can strike
'

! and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in
j

a crash.
Put things in the trunk of your vehicle.
In a trunk, put them as farforward as
you can. Try to spread the weight evenly.
Never stack heavier things, like suitcases,
inside the vehicleso that some of them
are above thetops of the seats.
When you carry something inside the
vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
Don't leave a seat folded down unless you
need to.

Tires

I *

We don't make tires.Your new vehiclecomes-withhigh
I
quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. These
tires are warranted by the tire manufacturers and their
If your
warranties are delivered with every new Buick.
spare tire is a different brand than your road tires, you
of these
will have a tire warranty folder from each
manufacturers.

244

Poorly maintained and' i!rn,pvaget.ly
used tires are
dangemus.
Owrloadi'ng your tlires can cause
overheatinglas a result of too much,
friction. You could have anair-crut and a
serious accident. See "kading Your
Vehicle" in the Index.
Underinflated tires pose tlhe same danger
6s overloaded tires. Theviesulting
acci'dent could cause serioulsinjury.
Check all1 tires frequently to msintdn the
recormmended pressure,.Tire (pressure
shoul,dbe checked w'hsn your tires a're
Gold.
averinflated tires are moire likely t'obe ,GU!~,
punctured, 'orbroken by a sudden impact,,
such as when you,hit a pothole. Keep tires
at the recommended pres'sura
0 Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If
your tread is ;badilyworm,, lor 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 drivers door shows the correct
inflation pressuresfor your tires, when they’re cold.
“Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting
for at least
three hours or driven no more than
a mile.

245

When to Check: Check your tires once a month or
more.
Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It shouldatbe60
psi (420 kPa).

How to Check: Use a good quality pocket-type gageto

check tire pressure. Simply looking at the tires will not
tell you the pressure, especiallyif you have radial tires-which may look properly inflated even if they’re
underinflated.

Tire Inspection and Rotation
To make your tires last longer, have them inspected and
rotated at the mileages recommendedin the
Maintenance, Schedule. See “Scheduled Maintenance
Services” in the Index.

If your tires have valve caps, be sure to put them back
on. They help prevent leaks
.by keeping out dirt and
moisture.

Use this rotation pattern.
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and
rear inflation pressureas shown on the Tire-Loading
Information label. Make certain that all wheel nuts are
in the
properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque”
Index.

A CAUTION:

Buying New .Tires
To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at
:the Tire-Loading Information label.

, A CAUTION:
Mixing tires could cause you to lose control

The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had while driving.If you mix tires of different sizes
a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec)
or types (radial and ‘bias-belted tires), the
number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, vehicle may not handle properly, and you cou’ ’
~1
:get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That way,
have a crash. Be sure to use the same size ana
*your vehicle will continue to have tires that
are designed
type tires on all four wheels.
to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating,
It’s all right todrive with your compact spa
traction, ride and other things during normal service
on
though. It was developed for useon your
your vehicle. If yourtires have an all-season tread
vehicle.
design, the TPC number will be followed
by a “MS’,
(for mud and snow).
1

;If you ever replace your tires with those not having a

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

!.TPC Spec number, make sure they
are the same size,
load rdnge, speed rating and construction type (bias,
bias-belted or radial)as your original tires.

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.)

Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on
the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified government test course. For
example, a tire graded150 would wear one and a half

248

(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.

Traction A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest are:B,A,
and C . They represent the tire’s abilityto stop on wet
pavement as measured under controlled conditions on
specified government test surfaces
of asphalt and
concrete. A tire markedC may have poor traction
performance.
Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based
on braking (straight-ahead) traction tests and does not
include cornering (turning) traction.
Temperature - A, B, C
The temperature gradesare A (the highest), B, and C ,
representing the tire’s resistance to
the generation of
heat and its abilityto dissipate heat when tested under
controlled conditionson 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 levelof performance
whicrall passenger car tires must meet under the
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety StandardNo. 109. Grades
B and A represent higher levels
of performance on the
laboratory test wheel thanthe minimum required by law.
Warning: The temperature gradefor this tireis
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.

Those grade are molded onthe sidewalls of passenger
car tires.
While the tires available as standard or optional
equipment on General Motors vehicles may vary with
respect to these grades, all such tires meet General
Motors performance standards and have been approved
for use on General Motors vehicles. All passenger type
(P Metric) tires must conform
to Federal safety
requirements in addition to these grades.

249

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance

Wheel Replacement

The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced
carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life
and best overall performance.

Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked or badly rusted.
If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts,
and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks
air
In most cases, you will not need to have your wheels out, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which
aligned again. However, if you notice unusual tire wear can sometimes be repaired). See your Buick dealer if
any of these conditions exist.
or your vehicle pulling one way or the other, the
Your dealer will know the kind
of wheel you need.
alignment may need to be reset. If you notice your
vehicle vibrating when driving on a smooth road, your Eachnew wheel should have the same load carrying
wheels may need to be rebalanced.
capacity, diameter, width, offset, and be mounted
the
same way as the one it replaces.
If you needto replace anyof your wheels, wheel bolts,
GM original
or wheel nuts, replace them only with new
equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the
right wheel, .wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for your Buick
model.

'1250

A CAUTION:
Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel
bolts, or wheel nuts onyour vehicle can be
dangerous. It could affect the braking and
handling of your vehicle, makeyour tires lose
air and make you losecontrol. 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.

Used Keplacement Wheels
I

A CAUTION:
I

Putting a used \ eel on your vehicle is
dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used
or how many miles it’s been driven. It could fail
suddenly and cause an accident.If you have to
replace a wheeluse a newGM original
equipment wheel.

251
-

Tire Chains

Care Appearance

A CAUTION:
Cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are
toxic. Others can burst intoflame if you strikea
match or get themon a hot part of the vehicle.
Some aredangerous if you breathe their fumes
in a closed space. When you use anything in a
container to clean your Buick, be sure to follow
the instructions. And alwaysopen your doors
or windows when you’re cleaning the inside.
Never use these to clean your vehicle:
0 Gasoline
0 Benzene
Naphtha
Carbon Tetrachlorid
0 Acetone
0 Paint Thinner
0 Turpentine
0 LacquerThinner
0 Nail Polish Remover

Cleaning the Insideof Your Buick
Use a vacuum cleaner often to get of
riddust and loose
dirt. Wipe vinyl with a clean, damp cloth.
Your Buick dealer hastwo GM cleaners -- a
solvent-type spot lifter and a foam-type powdered
cleaner. They will clean normal spots and stains very
well.
Here are some cleaning tips:
0

Always read the instructions on the cleanerlabel.

Clean up stains as soon as you can -- before they set.

Use a clean cloth or sponge, and changeto a clean
area often. A soft brush may be usedstains
if are
stubborn.
Use solvent-type cleaners in a well-ventilated area
only. If you usethem, don’t saturatethe stained area.
If a ring forms after spot cleaning, clean the entire
area immediately or it will set.

Wipe with a clean cloth.

Shoe polish, wax crayon, tar and asphalt will stain if
Cleaning Vinyl or Leather
left on a vehicle seat fabric. They should be removed
Just use warm water and a clean cloth.
as soon as possible. Be careful, becausethe cleaner
will dissolve them and may cause them
to bleed.
Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt.You
may have todo it more than once.
Non-Greasy Stains: Like catsup, coffee (black), egg,
fruit, fruit juice, milk, soft drinks,wine: vomit, urine and
Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if
blood.
you don't get 'them off quickly. Use a clean cloth and
solvent-type vinylfieather cleaner.
0. Carefully scrape off excess stain, then sponge the
soiled area with cool water.
0

If a stain remains, follow the foam-type instructions
above.
If an odor lingers after cleaning vomit or urine, treat
the area with awaterbaking soda solution:
1 teaspoon (5 ml) of baking soda to 1 cup (250 ml)
of lukewarm water.

Cleaning theTop of the Instrument
Panel

Use only 'mildsoap and waterto clean the top surfaces
of the instrument panel. Sprays containing siliconesor
waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield
and even makeit difficult tosee through the windshield
under certain conditions.

Finally, if needed, clean lightly with solvent-type
cleaner.

Combination Stains: Like candy, ice cream,
mayonnaise, chili sauce and unknown stains.
Carefully scrape off excess stain, then clean with
cool water and allow to dry.
If a stain remains, cleanit with solvent-type cleaner.

255

Care of Safety Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.

A CAUTION:
Do not bleachor dye safety belts.If you do, it
may severely weaken them.In a crash they
might not beable to provide adequate
protection. Cleansafety belts only with mild
soap and lukewarm water.

Glass

Cleaning the Outsideof the
Windshield and Wiper Blades
If the windshieldis not clear after using
the windshield
washer, orif the wiper blade chatters when running, wax
or other materialmay be on the blade or windshield.
Clean the outsideof the windshield withGM
Windshield Cleaner, Bon-AmiPowders (GM PartNo.
1050011). The windshield is clean
if beads do not form
when you rinse it with water.
Clean the blade by wiping vigorously with a cloth
soaked in full strength windshield washer solvent. Then
rinse the blade with water.

Wiper blades should be checked on a regular basis and
Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner (GM replaced when worn.
Part No. 1050427) or a liquid household glass cleaner
Cleaning the Outsideof Your Buick
will remove normal tobacco smoke and dust films.
Don’t use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they may The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth
cause scratches.Avoid placing decals on the inside rear of color, gloss retention and durability.
window, since theymay have to be scrapedoff later. If
Washing Your Vehicle
abrasive cleanersare used on the insideof the rear
is to keep
window, an electric defogger element may be damaged. The best way to preserve your vehicle’s finish
it
clean
by
washing
it
often
with
lukewarm
or
cold
Any temporary license should not be attached across the
water.
defogger grid.

Aluminum Wheels
If your Buick has these, don’t use chrome polish on
them. Usewax after you clean them. Also, don’t use
on them -- you
abrasive cleaners or cleaning brushes
could damagethe protective coating.

White Sidewall Tires
Your Buick dealer has GM
a White Sidewall Tire
Cleaner. You can use a stiff brush with it.

257

Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-up
materials availablefi-om yourdealer or other service
-Theseare places where glass or metal meets rubber.
outlets. Larger areasof finish damage can be corrected
Silicone grease there will make them last longer, seal in your dealer’s body and paint shop.
better, and not squeak. Apply silicone grease with a
clean cloth at least every six months.
Underbody Maintenance

Weatherstrips

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.

-ForeignMaterial

Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust
control can collecton 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 thoughthey have corrosion
protection.

At least every spring, flush these materials from the
underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mud
Calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents,
and other debris can collect. Dirt packed in closed areas
road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from of the frame should be loosened before being flushed.
industrial chimneys, and other foreign matter can
Your dealer or an underbody vehicle washing system
damage your vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted can do this for you.
surfaces. Use cleaners that are marked safe for painted
surfaces for these stains.

Finish Damage
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.

Fiberglass Springs

Chemical Paint Spotting
Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a
chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can
falhpon 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.
Although no defect int he paint
job causes this, Buick
will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces
new
vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within 12
months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km)of purchase,
whichever comes first.

259

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
.

1 1 1 11111111

I I I I 11ll1l11III'1ll1I 1l11IIIl11l11111l111111llIII I I H I I 1 I I

ENG'INE A
i
37
CODE
MOlDEL YEAR

Service Parts IdentificationLabel
You'll find this label onthe spare tire cover. It's very
helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label is:
0 Your
VIN.

I
ASSEMBLY
PLANT

It appears onThis is the legal identifier for your Buick.
a plate inthe front corner of the instrument panel, onthe
driver'sside. You can see itifyou look throughthe
windshield from outside your vehicle.The VIN also

0
0

Its
model
designation.
Paint
information.

A list of all productibn options and special
equipment.

Be sure that this label is not removed from
the vehicle.

Add-on Electrical Equipment

261

Fuses and Circuit Breakers
The wiring circuits in your car are protected from short
circuits by a combinationof fuses, circuit breakers, and
fusible thermal links in the wiring itself.. This greatly
reduces the chanceof fires caused by electrical
problems.
Be sure to use the correct fuse if you need to replace
one. If you ever have a problem on the road and don’t
of the correct
have a spare fuse, you can “borrow” one
of
your
car
that you can
value. Just pick some feature
get along without- like the radio or cigarette lighter
and use its fuse,if it is of the value you need. Replace it
as soon as you can.
There are two fuse block areas inside your vehicle. One
is located on the left side
of the console under a carpeted
panel cover. Remove the coverto access the fuses.

Fuse Usage

(Fuse Block - Lower Left Side of Console)
Amp
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.

20
10
20
10
20
15
3
10
20
15
25
10

14.

15.
16.
17.
18.

25
3
20
10

19.
20.

20
5

Description
ISO-IGN
Body
Antenna
Cigar
BCM/IPC
Stopmazard
Turn Signal
Cruise
WAC
Park Light
Radio 1
Wiper
Radio 2
SIR
BoseO
Crank
Trunk-rel/Pull Down & Fuel Door Re1
AIC
Elc Compressor
Coolant Fan

There is also afuse block that is located on the right
side
of the console under a carpeted panel cover. Remove the
cover to access these fuses.

263

Fuse Usage

(Interior Relay CenterLower Right Side of Console)
Description

Amp

1.
Used Not
2. 25 Defog
3. Keyless
15
Entry
4. 10 Anti-lock
5.
10 PCMflgnition
6.
15 PCM Solenoid
7.
15 Neutral
Start
Safety
Switch
8.
15 IGN MOD '

The fuse chart, below, shows howto tell a blown fuse
from a good fuse.

1GOOD
FUSE

r l l

BLOWN
FUSE

GM PARTNO.
U RATING ' U C O L O ~
12004003 ................... 3 AMP VIOLET
'12004005
5 AMP TAN
12004006
7.5 AMP BROWN
12004007 ................... 10 AMP RED
15 AMP LIGHT BLUE
12004008 ....................
12004009 ................... 20 AMP YELLOW
12004010 ................... 25 AMP WHITE
120040.11
30 AMP LIGHT GREEN

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

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

Headlights
The headlight wiring is protected by a circuit breaker in
the light switch.An electrical overload will cause
the
off, or in some casesto remain off. If
lights to go on and
this happens, have your headlight wiring checked right
away.

Windshield Wipers
The windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuit
breaker and a fuse.If the motor overheatsdue to heavy
snow, etc., the wiper willstop until the motor cools. If
the overload is caused by some electrical problem and
not snow, etc., be sure to getit 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.

Riviera Dimensions
Inches Unless Otherwise Noted

Overall:
Length ...........................
Width .............................
Height ............................
Wheelbase ........................
FrontTread ........................
Rear Tread .........................

Interior Front:
LegRoom .........................
HeadRoom ........................
Shoulder Room .....................
HipRoom .........................

198.3
73.1
52.9
108.0
59.9
59.9

42.7
37.8
57.9
55.9

Interior Rear:
LegRoom .........................
HeadRoom ........................
Shoulder Room .....................
HipRoom ..........................

35.6
37.8
57.4
55.4

Truck Capacity .
CU. FT. . . . . . . . . . . 14.4
Passengers:
Front ...............................
2
Rear ................................
3
Base Curb Weight - LBS. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3496

Replaceable Light Bulbs
Application

Number

Exterior
Cornering ...........................
1156
Headlight
9005
HighBeam .........................
Low Beam .........................
9006
194
Marker ...............................
194NA
Park ..............................
2057NA
Park/Turn .........................
1156
Backup .............................
S1156
HighLevelStop .....................
. License ...............................
194
T24
Marker ...............................
2057
Stop/Turn/Tail ........................
194
Tail .................................

Application

Number

Interior Illumination
Ashtray ..............................
161
161
DoorCourtesy ........................
Door Warning .........................
161
89
EngineCompartment .....................
168
FootwellCourtesy ......................
194
Glovebox .............................
Overhead Courtesy/Reading ............ t5582
Rear Console Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . t5560
RearQuarterCourtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12864
51004
Trunk ..............................
VanityMirror .........................
124

Introduction
IMPORTANT:

A Word About Maintenance

KEEP ENGINE OIL
AT THE PROPER
LEVEL AND CHANGE AS
RECOMMENDED

This part covers the maintenance required for your
Buick. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its
safety, dependability and emission control performance.

Plan
Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The
Plan supplements your newvehicle warranties. See
your Buick dealer for details.

We at General Motors wantto 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
Or you may drive
distances only a few times a week.
long distancesall the time in very hot, dusty weather.
You may use your vehicle in makingdeliveries. Oryou
may drive it to work, to do errands or in many other
ways.
Because of all the different ways people use their
GM
vehicles, maintenance needs vary.You may even need
will
more frequent checks and replacements than you
find in the schedules in this part.
So please read this part
If you have any questionson
and note how you drive.
how to keep your vehicle in good condition, see your
Buick dealer, the place many GM owners choose to
have their maintenance work done.
Your dealer can be
relied upon to use proper parts and practices.

Your Vehicle and the Environment

How This Part is Organized

Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your The remainder of this part is divided intofive sections:
vehicle in good working condition, but
also helps the
“Section A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows
environment. All recommended maintenance procedures what to have done and how often. Some
of these
are important. Improper vehicle maintenance or the
so unless you are technically
services can be complex,
removal of important components can significantly
qualified and have the necessary equipment,
you should
affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid
let your dealer’s service department or another qualified
levels or eventhe wrong tire inflation can increase the
service centerdo these jobs.
level of emissions from your vehicle.To help protect .
our environment, and to help keep your vehicle in good
condition, please maintain your vehicle properly.

A CAUTION:

Performing maintenancework on a vehicle can
be dangerous. In trying to do some jobs, you
can be seriously injured. Do your own
maintenancework only if youhave 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.

271

If YOU are skilled enough todo some work on your
vehicle, you will probably want to get the service
information GM publishes.You will find a listof
publications andhow to get them in this manual. See
“Service Publications” inthe Index.

‘‘Section D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” lists
some products GM recommends 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.

“Section B: Owner Checks and Services” tells you what
should be checked whenever you stop for fuel. It also
explains what you can easily do to help keep your
vehicle in good condition.

for
“Section E: Maintenance Record” provides a place
you to record the maintenance performed on your
vehicle. Whenever any maintenance is performed, be
sure to write it down in this section. 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 vehiclefor
warranty repairs.

“Section C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections” explains
important inspections that your Buick dealer’s service
department or another qualified service center should
perform.

272

Section A: Scheduled Maintenance
Services
Using Your Maintenance Schedules
This section tells youthe maintenance services you
should have done and when you should schedule them.
Your Buick dealer knows your vehicle best and wants
you to be happy with it. 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.

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:

Schedule I
Is any one of these true for your vehicle?
Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km).
0.

The engine. isat low speed mostof the time (as in
door-to-door delivery, or in stop-and-go traffic).

These schedules are for vehicles that:
0

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.

are driven on reasonable road surfaces within legal
driving limits.

use the recommended unleaded fuel. See “Fuel” in
the Index.

Most trips are less than 10 miles ( 16 km) when
outside temperaturesare below freezing.

You operate your vehicle in dusty areas.

If any one (or more)of these is true for your driving,
follow Schedule I.

Schedule I1
Follow ScheduleI1 only if none of the above conditions
is true.

273

Scheduled Maintenance Services ScheduleI
Follow Schedule I if your caris MAINLY driven under one or more of the following conditions:
0 When most trips are less than 4 miles (6 kilometers).
0 When most trips are less than10 miles (16 kilometers) and outside temperatures remain below fieezing.
0 When most trips include extended idling and/or frequent low-speed operation
as in stop-and-go traffic.
0 Towing a trailer.*?
0 When operating in dusty areas.
Schedule I should also be followed if the car is used for delivery service, police, taxi
or other commercial applications.

TO BE SERVICED
(See Explanationof
Scheduled Maintenance
Services Following
Schedules I and n)

WHEN TO PERFORM
Miles (kilometers) or
Months, Whichever
Occurs First

Item No.
1. Engine Oil& Oil Filter
Change*

Every 3 000 mi. (5000 km)
or 3 months.
,

2. Chassis Lubrication

Every other oil change

3. Throttle Body Mounting
Bolt Torque*

At 6 000 mi. (10 000 km)
only
At 6 000 mi. (10 000 km) and
then every 15 000 mi. (25 000
necessary
km)
as or

4. Tire & Wheel Inspection&
Rotation
5. Engine Accessory Drive
Belt(s) Inspection*

6. Cooling System Service*

274

Every 30 000 mi.
(50 000 km)or 24 months.

MILES (000)

I
I

KILOMETERS (000)
.
.
30 35

45 50 55

65 70

0
0

The services shown inthis schedule upto 48 000 miles (80.000km) shouldbe performed after48 000 miles at the same
*

An Emission Control Service.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has determined the
thatfailure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty
or limit recall liability prior to the completion
of
vehicle useful life. General Motors, however, urges all
that
recommended maintenance services be performed
at the indicated intervals and the maintenance
be recorded in "Section E:Maintenance
Record".

275

.ScheduledMaintenanceServicesSchedule

Follow Schedule I1 ONLY if none of the driving conditions specified
in Schedule I apply.

TO BE SERVICED
(See Explanation of
Scheduled Maintenance
Services Following
Schedules I and II)

WHEN TO PERFORM
(kilometers)
Miles
or
Months, Whichever
Occurs First

Item No.
1. Engine Oil Change*

MILES (000)

7.5
KILOMETERS (000)

12.5
mi. (12 500 km)or12
Every 7 500

mos.

At first
and
then
every
other
oil
change

2. Chassis Lubrication

Every 7 500 mi. (12 500km) or 12mos.

3. Throttle Body Mounting Bolt Torque*

At 7 500(12
mi.

4. Tire & Wheel Inspection& Rotation

At 7 500 mi. (12 500 km) and then every
15 000 mi. (25 000 km) or as necessary

Oil Filter Change*

500 km) only

5. .Engine Accessory Drive Belt(s) Inspection*
6 . Cooling System Service*

7. Transaxle Service

276

Every 30 000 mi. (50 000km) or 24 mos.
See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance
Services Following SchedulesI and I1

TO BE SERVICED
(See Explanationof
Scheduled Maintenance
Services Following
Schedules I and 11)

WHEN TO PERFORM
Miles (kilometers) or
Months, Whichever
Occurs First

Item No.

7.5

22.5

37.5

KILOMETERS (000)
0

9. Spark Plug Wire Inspection*T

& Lines Inspection*?
11. Fuel Tank, Cap

MILES (000)
,
,

8. Spark Plug Replacement*

10.Air Cleaner Filter Replacement*

Every 30 000 mi. (50 000 km)

0
0

The services shown in this schedule up to 45 000 miles (75000 km) shouldbe performed after 45 000 miles at the same
intervals.

An Emission Control Service.

T The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has determined thatfailure
the to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty
or limit recall liability prior
to the completionof
vehicle useful life. General Motors, however, urges all
thatrecommended maintenance services be performed
at the indicated intervals and the maintenance be recorded
in “Section E:Maintenance
Record“.

277

Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance
Services

3. Throttle Body Mounting Bolt Torque" -- Check
the torque of the mountingbolts and/or nuts.

An Emission Control Service.
The U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency has determined that the to
failure
perform this maintenance item will not nullify
the emission warrantyor limit recall liability
priorto thecompletion
of vehicle
useful life. GeneralMotors, however, urges that all recommended maintenance servicesbe performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance be recorded
in "Section EMaintenanceRecord".

278

conditioning condenser.Wash the pressure cap and
neck.

To help ensure proper operation,
we recommend a
pressure testof both the,cooling system and the
pressure cap.

7. Transaxle Service -- Change both the fluid andfilter
every 15,000 miles (25 000 km) if the vehicle is
mainly driven under one or more
of these conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside
temperature regularly reaches 90 F (32 C) or
higher.

In hilly or mountainous terrain.
Uses such as found in taxi, police car or delivery
service.
If you do not use your vehicle under any of these
conditions, change boththe fluid andfilter every
100,000 miles (160 000 km).
8. Spark Plug Replacement* -- Replace spark plugs
with the proper type. See “Specifications Chart” in
the Index.

9. Spark Plug Wire Inspection*? -- Inspect for burns,
cracks or other damage. Check the boot
fit at the
distributor and at the spark plugs. Replace wires
as
needed.
10. Air Cleaner Filter Replacement* -- Replace every
30,000 miles(50 000 km) or more often under dusty
conditions. Ask your dealer for the proper
replacement intervals for your driving conditions.
11. Fuel Tank, Caa,and Lines Insa,ection*T -- Inspect
fuel tank, cap and lines (including fuel rails and
injection assembly,if equipped) for damage or leaks.
Inspect fuel cap gasket for an even filler neck
imprint or any damage. Replace parts
as needed.
Periodic replacement of the fuel filteris not required.

An Emission Control Service.
Protection Agency has determined that the failure tothis
perform
maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty
or limitrecallliability prior to the completion
of vehicle
be performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance
be recorded in “SectionEMaintenance Record“.
useful life.General Motors, however,urges that all recommended maintenance services

3‘ The U.S.Environmental

1
1:

279

.SectionB: Owner Checks and
Services
Listed below are owner checks and services which
should be performedat the intervals specified to help
ensure the safety, dependability and emission control
performance of your vehicle.
Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your
vehicle, make sure theyare the proper ones, as shown in
Section D.

At Each Fuel Fill
(It is important for you or a service station attendant
to perform theseunderhood checks at each fuelfill.)
CHECK OR
SERVICE

WHAT TO DO

Engine Oil
Level

Check the engine oil level and add
theproperoilifnecessary.See
“Engine Oil” in the Index for further
details.

Engine Coolant
Level

Check the engine coolant level in the
coolant recovery tank and add the
proper coolant mix if necessary. See
“Coolant”intheIndexforfurther
details.

Windshield
Washer Fluid
Level

Check the windshield washer fluid
level in the windshield washer tank
and add the proper fluid if necessary.
See “Windshield Washer Nuid” in
the Index for further details.
~-~~~

280

At Least Oncea Month
CHECK OR

WHAT TO DO
~~

Tire Inflation

Body
Lubrication

WHAT TO DO

Check tire inflation. Make sure they
are inflated to the pressures specified
on theTire-LoadingInformation
label located on the rear edge
of the
driver’sdoor.See“Tires”inthe
Index for further details.

At Least Once aYear
CHECK OR
SERVICE
Key Lock
Cylinders

CHECK OR
SERVICE
Starter Switch

WHAT TO DO
Lubricate the key lock cylinders with
the lubricant specified in Section D.
Lubricate all body door hinges. Also
lubricate ‘all hingesandlatches,
including those for the hood, glove
box door and console door. Section
D tells you what to use.

or otherscouldbeinjured.
Follow the stem below.
I
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 Indexif
necessary) and the regular brake.
NOTE: Do not use the accelerator
pedal, and be ready to turn off the
engine immediatelyif it starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each gear.
The starter should work onlyin “P”
(Park) or “N” (Neutral). If the starter
worksinanyotherposition,your
vehicle needs service.

281

1‘

CHECK OR
SERVICE
Parking Brake
and Automatic
Transmission
“P” (Park)
Mechanism
Check

WHAT TO DO
ZAUTION: When you are doing
this check, your vehicle could
gin to move. You or others
uld be injured and property
be damaged. Make sure
is room in front of your
hicle in case it begins to roll.
ready to apply the regular
ake
at
once should the
ehicle begin to move.

CHECK OR
SERVICE
Underbody
Flushing

WHAT TO DO
At least every spring, plain
use water
to flush any corrosive materials
from
theunderbody.Takecaretoclean
thoroughly any areas where
mud and
other debris can collect.

Park on a fairly steep hill, with the
vehiclefacingdownhill.Keeping
your footon the regular brake, set the
parking brake.
li To check the parking brake: With
the engine running and
transmission in“ N ’ (Neutral),
slowly remove foot pressure from
the regular brake pedal.Do this
until the vehicle is held by the
parking brake only.
To check the “P” (Park)
mechanism’s holding ability: Shift
to “P” (Park). Then release all
brakes.

283

INSPECTION
OR 'SERVICE

Throttle
Linkage
Inspection

INSPECTION
OR SERVICE
Brake System
Inspection

WHAT SHOULD BE DONE
Inspect the complete system. Inspect
brakelinesandhosesforproper
hookup,
binding,
leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads
forwearandrotorsforsurface
condition. Inspect other brake parts,
includingcalipers,parkingbrake,
parking
Check
brake
etc.
adjustment. You may need to have
your brakes inspected more often if
yourdrivinghabitsorconditions
result in frequent braking.
NOTE: A low brake fluid level can
indicate worndisc brake pads which
may needto be serviced. Also,if the
brake system warning light stays on
orcomeson,somethingmay
be
wrongwiththebrakesystem.See
“BrakeSystemWarningLight”in
theIndex.Ifyouranti-lockbrake
systemwarninglightstaysonor
comes -on,something may be wrong
with the anti-lock brake system. See
“Anti-Lock Brake System Warning
Light” in the Index.

Section D: Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants
NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified belowby name,
part number or specification may be obtained from your
GM dealer.
USAGE
Engine Oil

Engine Coolant

FLUID/LUBRICANT
GM
Goodwrench
Motor
Oil
or
equivalent
for
API
service
SG
EnergyConserving I1 oils of the
proper
viscosity.
The
“SG’
designation may be shown alone or
in combination with others, such as
or“SG/CD,”
“SG/CC,”
“SF,SG,CC,” etc. To determine the
preferred viscosity for your vehicle’s
engine,see“EngineOil”inthe
Index.

50/50 mixture of water (preferably
distilled) and good quality ethylene
glycol base antifreeze(GM Part No.
1052753 or equivalent) conforming
GM
to
Specification
1825M
or
approved
coolant
recycled
conforming to GM
Specification
1825M.

285

USAGE
Hydraulic Brake
System
Chassis
lubricant
Parking
Brake
meeting
Guides
requirements

FLUID/LUBRICANT
DelcoSupreme l l @ BrakeFluid
(GM
Part
1052535)
No. or
equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.
of 2,
Grade
NLGI
Category LB or GC-LB (GM Part
No. 1052497 or equivalent).

PowerSteeringGMHydraulicPowerSteeringFluid
Part
(GM
No. 1052884)
or
System
equivalent.

DEXFtON@
IIE
Automatic
TransmissionFluid(GMPartNo.
1234588 1) or equivalent.

Automatic
Transaxle

Lubricate
Multi-Purpose
with
Lubricant (GM PartNo. 12345 120),
synthetic S A E 5W-30 engine oil or
No.
siliconelubricant(GMPart
1052276 or 1052277).

Key Lock
Cylinders

~~~

Automatic
Transaxle Shift
Linkage

Engine oil.

Chassis
Lubrication

. meeting
Chassis
lubricant
requirements of NLGIGrade2,
Category LB or GC-LB (GM Part
No. 1052497 or equivalent).

I 286

USAGE
Windshield
Washer Solvent
Hood Latch
Assembly
a. Pivots and
Spring
Anchor
b. Release Pawl

FLUIDLUBRICANT
GM Optikleen@
Washer
Solvent
(GM
Part
No.
1051515)
or
equivalent.

a. Engine oil.
b. Chassis lubricant meeting
requirements of NLGI Grade 2,
Category LB or GC-LB (GM Part
No. 1052497 or equivalent).

Hood and Door
Hinges, Fuel
Door Hinge

Engine oil or Lubriplate Lubricant
(GM Part No. 1050109).

Weatherstrips

Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part
No. 12345579 or equivalent).

See “Specifications Chart” in the Index for
spark
recommended replacement filters, valves and
plugs.

Section E: Maintenance Record
After the scheduled servicesare performed, record the
date, odometer reading andwho performed the service
in the columns indicated. When completing the
Maintenance Performed column, insert the numbers

from the ScheduleI or Schedule II maintenance charts
which correspondto the maintenance performed. Also,
you should retainall maintenance receipts.Your owner
information portfolio isa convenient placeto store
them.

Maintenance Record
DATE

ODOMETER
READING

SERVICED BY

MAINTENANCE PERFORMED

287

Maintenance
Record

,
+
!

DATE

ODOMETER
READING

SERVICED BY

MAINTENANCE
PERFORMED

288

. .
___~____-

I..*.

- ~ -L.__>
_ _
~

Customer Assistancefor the Hearing
or Speech Impaired

1-800-TD-BUICK. (TDDusers in Canada candial
1-800-263-3830.)

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 If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle
has a safety defect, you should immediately notify
cause a crash or could cause injury or death,
you should
Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic
Motors of Canada Limited.You may write to:
Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to
notifying General Motors.
Transport Canada
If NHTSA receives similar complaints,it may open an
Box 8880
investigation, andif it finds that a safety defect exists in
Ottawa, OntarioKlG 3J2.
a groupof vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved
in individual problems between you, your dealer, or
TOGENERALMOTORS
General Motors.
In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada)
To contact NHTSA, you may either call
the Auto Safety
in a situation likethis, we certainly hope you’ll notify
Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in the us. Please call us at 1-800-521-7300 ,or write: Buick
Washington, D.C. area) or write to:
Motor Division, Customer Assistance Center,902 E.
Hamilton
Avenue, Flint, MI 48550.
NHTSA
U.S. Department of Transportation
In Canada, please callus at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or
Washington, D.C. 20590
1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write:
You can also obtain other informationabout motor
General Motors of Canada Limited
vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Customer Assistance Center
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario LIH 8P7

291

Bulletins cover various subjects. Some pertain to the
proper use and careof your vehicle. Some describe
Information on how to obtain Product Service
costly repairs. Others describe inexpensive repairs
Publications, Subscriptions and Indexesas described
which, if done on time with the latest parts, may avoid
U.S. states (and the
below is applicable only in the fifty
future costly repairs. Some bulletins tell a technician
District of Columbia) and only for cars and light trucks how to repaira.new or unexpected condition. Others
with GVWR less than10,000 pounds (4 536 kg).
describe a quickerway to fix your vehicle. They can
help a technician service your vehicle better.
In Canada, information pertaining to Product Service
Bulletins and Indexes can be obtained
by writing to:
Most bulletins apply to conditions affecting a small
number of cars or trucks. Your Buick dealer aor
General Motorsof Canada Limited
qualified technician may have to determine
if a specific
Service Publications Department
bulletin applies to your vehicle.
1908 Colonel Sam Dr.
Oshawa, Ontario LlH 8P7
You can subscribe to allh i c k bulletins. This way you’ll
get
them as they come out. You can waita while and get
Buick regularly sends its dealers. useful service bulletins
an index to the bulletins.You can also get individual
about Buick products. Buick monitors product
bulletins. However, you’ll need the index to identify
performance in the field.We then prepare bulletins for
them.
servicing our products better. Now, you can get these
bulletins too.

Service Publications

292

Subscriptions
You can subscribeto all Buick Product Service
Publications (PSP’s).This will include bulletins forall
cars sold by Buick and will not be limited to PSP’s
applicable to any particular model. When
you buy a
subscription, you will receive the PSP’sin periodic
A subscription
mailings, shortly after they come out.
costs U.S. $86.50 ($106.50 includinga special binder)
and it entitles you to all PSP’s publishedby Buick
during the modelyear. You can purchase a subscription
by sending a check or money order to:
Service Publications
Post Office Box 1901
Flint, Michigan 48501
along with the order form located in the following text.
You may get additional subscription ordering forms
by
calling thetoll-free number shown in the following text.

What You’ll Find in the Index:
A list of all PSP’s publishedby Buick in a model
year (1989 or later). PSP’s covering all modelsof
Buick cars are listed in the same index.
Ordering information so you can buy the specific
PSP’s you may want.
Price information for the PSP’s you may wantto
buy.

Individual PSP’s
If you don’t want to buyall the PSP’s issuedby Buick
for all models in the model year,
you can buy individual
PSP’s, such as those which may pertain atoparticular
model. To do this, you will first need to see our indexof
PSP’s. It providesa variety of information. Here’s what
you’ll find in the index and
how you can get one:

,293

How You Can Get an Index:

Toll-Free Telephone Number

Indexes are published periodically. Mostof the PSP’s
which could potentially applyto the most recent Buick
models will be listed in the most recent publication for
that model year. This means you may want to wait until
the end of the model year before ordering an index, if
you are interested in buying PSP’s pertaining to a
current model year car or truck.

If you want an additional ordering formfor an index ora
subscription,just call toll-free and we’ll be happy to
send you one. Automated recording equipment will take
’
your name and mailing address.
The number to call is
1-800-55 1-4 123.

Some PSP’s pertaining to a particular model year
vehicle may be published in later years, and these would
be listed in the later year’s index. When
you order an
index for a model year thatis not over yet, we’ll send
you the most recently published issue. Check the
ordering form for indexes for earlier model years.

Copies of Indexes and individual PSP’s are at your
participating Buick dealer.You can askto see them.

Cut out the ordering form, fillit out, and mail it in.We
will then see to it that an index is mailed to you. There is
no charge for indexes for the 1989-1993 model years.

Copies at Participating Dealers

A VERY IMPORTANT REMINDER: These PSP’sare
meant for technicians. They are not meant for the
“do-it-yourselfer.” Technicians have the equipment,
tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do
joba
quickly and safely.

Buick Service Publications
You can get these by using the order form:

P
P

c
1

Ci%
0 5

I
8

I
i

I 1

3QL

Part 9
I

Index
I

. ..

A c c (Ignition Key Position) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
72
83
Accessory Power. Retained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding
Brake Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
236
199.202.23 1
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
125
ElectricalEquipment ..........................
224
Engineoil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
234
Power Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
229
Transaxle/Transmission Fluid ....................
Windshield Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
235
226
Additives. Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
157
Adjustment. Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adult Safety Belt Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
AirBag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
32
228
Aircleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airconditioner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Airoutlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
118
Airsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Alcohol. Driving Under the Influence of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
2 17
Alcohol in Gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aluminum Wheels. Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
257
124
AM Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AM Stereo Radio Reception .......................
124
Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
137
Antifreeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
231
154
Antilock Brake System ...........................
Antilock Braking System Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Anti-Theft Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
66
252
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appearance Care and Maintenance Materials . . . . . . . . . . 260
104
Armrest Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
103
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Astroroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
102
124
Audio Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
63
Automatic Door Locks .............................
64
Automatic Pull-Down Feature .......................
Automatic Overdrive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
77
75
Automatic Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
229
Automatic Transaxle Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Transaxle Torque Lock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

B a b y . Holding a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44
237

,.,..

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

~Fiws.~an.
CkauitBrmkem

.262.
%2

HighSpeed.ShiftingWhen Your Engine is Running ..... 76Jack.Tire
.....................................205
172Jacking
Up theCar ...............................
205
Highway Hypnosis ...............................
Jump
Starting
................................... 186
Hill and Mountain Roads .......................... 173
Hills. Parking on ................................. 175
Holding a Babyin Your Car .........................
43
221
Hood. Opening the ...............................
Horn ........................................... 84
K e y s ..........................................
59
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
........................ Keyless
113
System.
Entry
Remote
64
Coolant
Warning
Hot
Light
Hot
Engine.
Safety
Warnings
About
196
Kilomefa-J&$q$cx . +...?.
..._ .........
. . ... rs.z7 t- ........ . 105
.................
Hydroplaning ...................................
166

Ice. Driving on ................................. 179
Identification Label. Service Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
261
Identification Number. Vehicle .....................
82
Idling Your Engine ................................
If You’re Stuck: In Sand. Mud. Ice or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Ignition Key Positions .............................
71
Indicator. Turn Signal ............................. 85
Indicators. Disc Brake Wear ....................... 156
Indicators. Warning Lights and Gages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107
Infant Restraint ...................................
45
Inflation. Tire ...................................
245
Inside Mirror ....................................
99
Inspection.Tire .................................
245
105
InstrumentPanel ................................
Interior Cleaning ................................
253
Interlock. Brake-Transaxle Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75.81
Introduction .How To Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

302

.’_

Label. Service Parts Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .261
85
Lane Change Indicator .............................
Lap Belt ........................................
-42
Lap-Shoulder Belt Usage by Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Leaving Your Vehicle ..............................
80
Level Control. Electronic ..........................
104
104
License Plate Holder. Rear.........................
Light. Safety Belt .................................
-25
Light. Turn Signal Indicator .........................
85
111
Lighter. Cigarette ................................
Lights
Daytime Running ..............................
98
96
Panel and Interior ..............................
Traffic ......................................
145
“On” Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Operation ....................................
86
Lights & Gages. Warning Indicators ................. 107
Loading YourVehicle ............................
242

Run (Ignition Key Position) .........................
72
Running Lights. Daytime ...........................
98
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Safety Belt Care ................................
256
56
Safety Belt Extender ..............................
25
Safety Belt Reminder Light .........................
Safety Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Safety Belt. Center Adult Passenger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
42
Safety Belt. Lap ..................................
27
Safety Belt. Lap-Shoulder ..........................
SafetyBelts .....................................
13
29
Safety Belts. Buckled Wrong ........................
Safety Belts. Questions About .......................
24
Safety Belts. Rear Seat Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Safety Belts. Right Front. Adult Passenger . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Safety Belt. Too Loose .............................
28
57
Safety Belt. Torn .................................
Safety Belts. Twisted ..............................
31
Safety Belts. Usage by Adults .......................
26
43
Safety Belts. Usage by Children .....................
Safety Belts. Usage During Pregnancy .................37
20
Safety Belts. Why They Work .......................
Safety Belts. Worn Under Arm ......................
30
Safety Defects. Reporting ..........................
291
Safety Warnings ..................................
10
Scheduled Maintenance Services....................
273

Seats and Safety Belts .............................
13
Seat Controls ....................................
14
77
Second Gear. When to Use .........................
45
Securing A Child Restraint .........................
Security Light .................................
67.69
Service Tips ....................................
216
Service A/CLight ...............................
115
Service and Appearance. Care ......................
215
“Service Engine Soon” Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Service Parts Identification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
292
Service Publications ..............................
127.130. 132
Setting the Clock .........................
Setting the Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
ShapeofRoadSigns .............................
143
Sheet Metal Damage .............................
258
Shift. Brake-Transaxle Interlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75. 81
Shift Lever Positions ..............................
75
79
Shifting Into Park .................................
Shifting Outof Park ............................... 81
85
SignalingTurns ...................................
Signs. Road ....................................
140
Skidding .......................................
161
Slippery Surfaces. Driving on ......................
179
Snow or Ice. Driving on ...........................
179
Snowstorm. If You’re Caught in a Bad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
254
Solvent-Type Cleaner on Fabric ....................
125
Sound Equipment. Adding .........................
Sound Systems ..................................
124
SpareTire ......................................
212

305’

1
Why Wear Safety Belts ? ...........................
19
Windows.Power .................................
84
Windshield
256
Cleaning ....................................
88
Washer ......................................
Washer Fluid .................................
235
Wipers ...................................
87. 256
178
Winter Driving ..................................
WireWheelCover ...............................
206

Working on Your Car .............................
Worn Tires ......................................
Wrecker Towing .................................

Y o u r Driving and the Road .......................
139
Your Own Signs .................................
147
Your Vehicle and the Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .271

308

216
247
191

MILEAGE

Owner’s Reco.rdof Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE
~~

309

NTMILEAGE

Owner’s Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE

310

COMMENTS

MILEAGE

Owner’s Recordof Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE

311

Owner’s Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE

312

AMOUNT
MILEAGE

COMMENTS

Owner’s Recordof Upkeep & Fuel Usage

MILEAGE

DATE

I
~~

I
313

Owner’s Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE

314

MILEAGE

AMOUNT

COMMENTS

MILEAGE

Owner’s Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE
~~

315

Owner3 Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage

AGE

DATE

. - ..
~~

316

. .

..,.

MILEAGE

Owner’s Recordof Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE

317

EAGE

1
Owner’s Recordof Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE

318

MILEAGE

Owner’s Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage
DATE

319

.. .. ..!

Fuel Mileage Chart

MILES FER GALLON
10

11 1312

60 84
78
72
66

70 84
77

20
128
136
144
152
160
168

90 108
117
126
99

35
144

LOO

110
121
132
143
154

120
132

130
143
156
169
182
195
208

140
154
168
182
196
210

150 165
180

110 120
130
140

100 105

102
108
114
120
126

23 2928
24272625

10 115 120
125
1.38
32

105 112
119
126
133
140
147

8112
104
968880

144' 150 156
162
168
174
180
186
192
198
224
231

1 76
184
-192
200
208
216

50 160
170
180
190
200

210
220
230
240
250
260
270
280
290
300
310
320

65
176
187
198
209
220

231
242
253
264
275
286
297
308
319

261
270
279
288
297.
306
315
324

330 340
350
360

330 341
352
363

338 351 364
377
390
403
416
429
442
455
468

3 12
325

378
392
406
420
434
448
462
476
490
504

510 525 540

195 210 225 240 255
270
285
300
315
330
345
360
375
390
405
420
435
450
465
480
495

5 12 528 544
560
576

224
240
256
272
288
304
320
336
352
368
384
400
416
432
448
464
480
496

I70 187 204 221 238
255

180
198
216

190
209
228
247
266
285
304
323
342
361
380
399
418
437
456
475
494

200 220
240
260
280
300
320
340
360
380
400
420

110 231
252
273
294
315
336
357
378
399
420
441
462
483
504
525
546
567

374 385
396

3 12
324
336
348
360
372
384
396
408
420
432

264
276
288
300

224 238 252
266
280
294
308
322
336
350
364
'

238
245
252

224
232
240
248
256
264
272
280
288
234 243
252

221
234
247
260
273
286
299

204
210
216

54
161
168
175
182
189
196
203
210
217

144 156
168
180
192
204
216
228
240
252

32353433

150 155
160
165
170
175
180

130 135
140
145

153 162
171
180
189
198
207
216
225

22 120
242
-

70858075
90

176
192
208
16~ 160

I
I

272 289
306
323
340
357
374
391
408
425
442
459
476
493

510 527
544
561
578
595
612

234
252
270
288
306
324
342
360
378
396
414
432
450
468
486
504
522
540
558
576
594
612
630
648

264
286

308
330

513 532 551 570
589
608
627
440 460
480
500
520
540
560
580

352' 374
396
418

600 620
640
660
680
700
720
588 609
630
651
672
693

440 462
484
506
528

646 665 684

550 572
594
616
638
660
682
704
726
748
770
792

714 735
756

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