Panasonic of North America GA-120-COLR Connected Color Radio User Manual 00 Introduction 1 6

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (35,1)
Driving and Operating
If the parking brake warning light is
on, the EPB has detected an error
in another system and is operating
with reduced functionality. To apply
the EPB when this light is on, lift up
on the EPB switch and hold it in the
up position. Full application of the
parking brake by the EPB system
may take longer than normal when
this light is on. Continue to hold the
switch until the parking brake status
light remains on. If the parking
brake warning light is on, see
your dealer.
If the EPB fails to apply, the rear
wheels should be blocked to
prevent vehicle movement.
EPB Release
To release the EPB, place the
ignition in the ON/RUN position,
apply and hold the brake pedal,
and push down momentarily on
the EPB switch. If you attempt to
release the EPB without the brake
pedal applied, a chime will sound,
and the DIC message STEP ON
BRAKE TO RELEASE PARK
BRAKE will be displayed. The EPB
is released when the parking brake
status light is off.
If the parking brake warning light is
on, the EPB has detected an error
in another system and is operating
with reduced functionality. To
release the EPB when this light is
on, push down on the EPB switch
and hold it in the down position.
EPB release may take longer than
normal when this light is on.
Continue to hold the switch until the
parking brake status light is off.
If the light is on, see your dealer.
Notice: Driving with the parking
brake on can overheat the brake
system and cause premature
wear or damage to brake system
parts. Make sure that the parking
brake is fully released and the
brake warning light is off before
driving.
9-35
Automatic EPB Release
The EPB will automatically release if
the vehicle is running, placed into
gear, and an attempt is made to
drive away. Avoid rapid acceleration
when the EPB is applied, to
preserve parking brake lining life.
For maximum EPB force when
towing a trailer or parking on a hill,
pull the EPB switch twice. If you are
towing a trailer and parking on a hill,
see Driving Characteristics and
Towing Tips on page 9‑54 for more
information.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-36
Black plate (36,1)
Driving and Operating
Brake Assist
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
This vehicle has a brake assist
feature designed to assist the driver
in stopping or decreasing vehicle
speed in emergency driving
conditions. This feature uses the
stability system hydraulic brake
control module to supplement the
power brake system under
conditions where the driver has
quickly and forcefully applied the
brake pedal in an attempt to quickly
stop or slow down the vehicle.
The stability system hydraulic brake
control module increases brake
pressure at each corner of the
vehicle until the ABS activates.
Minor brake pedal pulsation or
pedal movement during this time is
normal and the driver should
continue to apply the brake pedal as
the driving situation dictates.
The brake assist feature will
automatically disengage when the
brake pedal is released or brake
pedal pressure is quickly
decreased.
This vehicle has a Hill Start Assist
(HSA) feature, which may be useful
when the vehicle is stopped on a
grade. This feature is designed to
prevent the vehicle from rolling,
either forward or rearward, during
vehicle drive off. After the driver
completely stops and holds the
vehicle in a complete standstill on a
grade, HSA will be automatically
activated. During the transition
period between when the driver
releases the brake pedal and starts
to accelerate to drive off on a grade,
HSA holds the braking pressure to
ensure that there is no rolling. The
brakes will automatically release
when the accelerator pedal is
applied within the two‐second
window. It will not activate if the
vehicle is in a drive gear and facing
downhill or if the vehicle is facing
uphill and in R (Reverse).
Ride Control Systems
Traction Control
System (TCS)
The vehicle has a Traction Control
System (TCS) that limits wheel slip.
The system operates if it senses
that one or both of the front wheels
are slipping or beginning to lose
traction. When this happens, the
system reduces engine power and/
or applies brake pressure to the
slipping wheel(s).
The system may be heard or felt
while it is working, but this is
normal.
TCS automatically comes on
whenever the vehicle is started.
To limit wheel slip, especially in
slippery road conditions, the system
should always be left on. But, TCS
can be turned off if needed.
d flashes to indicate that TCS is
active. See Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light on
page 5‑21 for more information.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (37,1)
Driving and Operating
If there is a problem detected with
TCS, SERVICE TRACTION
CONTROL is displayed on the
Driver Information Center (DIC).
See Ride Control System Messages
on page 5‑37. When this message
is displayed and d comes on and
stays on, the vehicle is safe to drive
but the system is not operational.
Driving should be adjusted
accordingly.
If d comes on and stays on, reset
the system.
To reset:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Turn the engine off and wait
15 seconds.
3. Start the engine.
If d still comes on and stays on, the
vehicle needs service.
Notice: Do not repeatedly brake
or accelerate heavily when TCS is
off. The vehicle's driveline could
be damaged.
9-37
It may be necessary to turn the
system off if the vehicle gets stuck
in sand, mud, or snow and rocking
the vehicle is required. See If the
Vehicle Is Stuck on page 9‑10 for
more information. See also Winter
Driving on page 9‑8 for information
on using TCS when driving in snowy
or icy conditions.
TCS can be turned off by pressing
and releasing the TCS/StabiliTrak
button. When TCS is turned off, i
comes on, and the appropriate DIC
message also displays. See Ride
Control System Messages on
page 5‑37. With TCS turned off, the
system does not limit wheel slip.
Driving should be adjusted
accordingly. See Traction Off Light
on page 5‑21 for more information.
Press and release the TCS/
StabiliTrak button again to turn the
system back on.
Adding non‐GM accessories can
affect the vehicle performance. See
Accessories and Modifications on
page 10‑3 for more information.
StabiliTrak® System
The vehicle may have a vehicle
stability enhancement system called
StabiliTrak. It is an advanced
computer-controlled system that
assists with directional control of the
vehicle in difficult driving conditions.
StabiliTrak activates when the
computer senses a difference
between the intended path and
the direction the vehicle is
actually traveling.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-38
Black plate (38,1)
Driving and Operating
StabiliTrak selectively applies
braking pressure to the vehicle
brakes to help steer the vehicle in
the intended direction.
StabiliTrak comes on automatically
whenever the vehicle is started.
To assist with directional control of
the vehicle, the system should
always be left on.
When StabiliTrak activates, d
flashes on the instrument panel.
A noise may be heard or vibration
may be felt in the brake pedal. This
is normal. Continue to steer the
vehicle in the intended direction.
See Traction Control System (TCS)/
StabiliTrak® Light on page 5‑21 for
more information.
If a problem is detected with
StabiliTrak, SERVICE
STABILITRAK is displayed on the
Driver Information Center (DIC).
See Ride Control System Messages
on page 5‑37. When this message
is displayed and d comes on and
stays on, the vehicle is safe to drive
but the system is not operational.
Driving should be adjusted
accordingly.
If d comes on and stays on, reset
the system.
To reset:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Turn the engine off and wait
15 seconds.
3. Start the engine.
If d still comes on and stays on,
the vehicle needs service.
To turn off both StabiliTrak and
TCS, press and hold the TCS/
StabiliTrak button, located on the
instrument panel, until i and g
illuminate and the appropriate
DIC message is displayed. See
Ride Control System Messages
on page 5‑37.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (39,1)
Driving and Operating
When StabiliTrak is turned off,
the system will not assist with
directional control of the vehicle
or limit wheel spin. Driving
should be adjusted accordingly.
See Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light on
page 5‑21 for more information.
Press and release the TCS/
StabiliTrak button again to turn
the system back on.
If cruise control is being used when
StabiliTrak activates, cruise control
will automatically disengage. Press
the cruise control button to
reengage when road conditions
allow. See Cruise Control on
page 9‑40 for more information.
Limited-Slip Differential
Vehicles with a limited-slip
differential can give more traction on
snow, mud, ice, sand, or gravel.
It works like a standard differential
most of the time, but when traction
is low, this feature allows the drive
wheel with the most traction to
move the vehicle.
Selective Ride Control
The vehicle may have a ride control
system called Selective Ride
Control. The system provides the
following performance benefits:
Reduced Impact Harshness
Improved Road Isolation
Improved High-Speed Stability
Improved Handling Response
Better Control of Body Ride
Motions
To switch from TOUR to SPORT
mode, move the shift lever to the
left while the transmission is in
D (Drive).
9-39
TOUR: Use for normal city and
highway driving. This setting
provides a smooth, soft ride.
SPORT: Use where road conditions
or personal preference demand
more control. This setting provides
more “feel,” or response to road
conditions through increased
steering effort and suspension
tuning.
The setting can be changed at any
time. Based on road conditions,
steering wheel angle, and vehicle
speed, the system automatically
adjusts to provide the best handling
while providing a smooth ride. The
TOUR and SPORT modes will feel
similar on a smooth road.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-40
Black plate (40,1)
Driving and Operating
Cruise Control
With cruise control, the vehicle can
maintain a speed of about 40 km/h
(25 mph) or more without keeping
your foot on the accelerator. Cruise
control does not work at speeds
below 40 km/h (25 mph).
On vehicles with the Traction
Control System (TCS) or the
StabiliTrak® system, it may begin to
limit wheel spin while you are using
cruise control. If this happens, the
cruise control will automatically
disengage. See Traction Control
System (TCS) on page 9‑36 or
StabiliTrak® System on page 9‑37.
WARNING (Continued)
Cruise control can be dangerous
on slippery roads. On such roads,
fast changes in tire traction can
cause excessive wheel slip, and
you could lose control. Do not use
cruise control on slippery roads.
* (Cancel):
Press to disengage
cruise control without erasing the
set speed from memory.
RES/+ (Resume/Accelerate):
Move the thumbwheel up to make
the vehicle resume to a previously
set speed or to accelerate.
SET/− (Set/Coast): Move the
thumbwheel down to set the speed
and activate cruise control or make
the vehicle decelerate.
Setting Cruise Control
{ WARNING
Cruise control can be dangerous
where you cannot drive safely at
a steady speed. So, do not use
the cruise control on winding
roads or in heavy traffic.
(Continued)
1 (On/Off): Press to turn the
cruise control system on and off.
An indicator light will turn on or off in
the instrument panel cluster.
If the cruise button is on when not in
use, it could get bumped and go into
cruise when not desired. Keep the
cruise control switch off when cruise
is not being used.
The cruise control buttons are
located on the steering wheel.
1. Press 1 to turn the cruise
control system on. The indicator
light in the instrument panel
cluster comes on.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (41,1)
Driving and Operating
2. Get to the speed desired.
3. Move the thumbwheel down
toward SET/− and release it.
The desired set speed briefly
appears in the instrument panel
cluster.
Increasing Speed While Using
Cruise Control
If the cruise control system is
already activated:
4. Take your foot off the accelerator
pedal.
Resuming a Set Speed
If the cruise control is set at a
desired speed and then the brakes
are applied or the * is pressed, the
cruise control is disengaged without
erasing the set speed from memory.
Once the vehicle reaches about
40 km/h (25 mph) or more, move the
thumbwheel up toward RES/+
briefly. The vehicle returns to the
previous set speed and stays there.
Move the thumbwheel up toward
RES/+ and hold it until the
vehicle accelerates to the
desired speed, and then
release it.
To increase the speed in small
amounts, move the thumbwheel
up toward RES/+ briefly, then
release it. Each time this is
done, the vehicle goes about
1.6 km/h (1 mph) faster.
Reducing Speed While Using
Cruise Control
If the cruise control system is
already activated:
Move the thumbwheel toward
SET/− and hold until the desired
lower speed is reached, then
release it.
9-41
To slow down in small amounts,
move the thumbwheel toward
SET/− briefly and then release it.
Each time this is done, the
vehicle goes about 1.6 km/h
(1 mph) slower.
Passing Another Vehicle While
Using Cruise Control
Use the accelerator pedal to
increase the vehicle's speed. When
you take your foot off the pedal, the
vehicle will slow down to the
previous set cruise control speed.
Using Cruise Control on Hills
How well the cruise control works
on hills depends upon the vehicle's
speed, load, and the steepness of
the hills. When going up steep hills,
you might have to step on the
accelerator pedal to maintain the
vehicle's speed. When going
downhill, you might have to brake or
shift to a lower gear to maintain the
vehicle's speed. When the brakes
are applied the cruise control
shuts off.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-42
Black plate (42,1)
Driving and Operating
Ending Cruise Control
There are three ways to end cruise
control:
To disengage cruise control,
step lightly on the brake pedal;
when cruise control disengages,
the indicator light will not be lit.
* on the steering wheel.
Press
To turn off the cruise control,
press 1 on the steering wheel.
Erasing Speed Memory
The cruise control set speed is
erased from memory by pressing
or if the ignition is turned off.
Object Detection
Systems
Ultrasonic Parking Assist
If available, the Ultrasonic Rear
Parking Assist (URPA) system
assists the driver with parking
and avoiding objects while in
R (Reverse). URPA operates at
speeds less than 8 km/h (5 mph).
The sensors on the rear bumper
detect objects up to 2.5 m (8 ft)
behind the vehicle, and at least
20 cm (8 in) off the ground.
{ WARNING
The URPA system does not
detect pedestrians, bicyclists,
animals, or any other objects
located below the bumper or
that are too close or too far
from the vehicle.
(Continued)
WARNING (Continued)
To prevent injury, death,
or vehicle damage, even with
URPA, always check behind the
vehicle and check all mirrors
before backing.
How the System Works
URPA comes on automatically
when the shift lever is moved into
R (Reverse). A single tone sounds
to indicate the system is working.
URPA operates only at speeds less
than 8 km/h (5 mph).
An obstacle is indicated by audible
beeps. The interval between the
beeps becomes shorter as the
vehicle gets closer to the obstacle.
When the distance is less than
30 cm (12 in) the beeping is a
continuous tone for five seconds.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (43,1)
Driving and Operating
To be detected, objects must be at
least 20 cm (8 in) off the ground and
below trunk level. Objects must also
be within 2.5 m (8 ft) from the rear
bumper. The distance at which
objects can be detected may be
less during warmer or humid
weather.
When the system is off, PARK
ASSIST OFF displays on the Driver
Information Center (DIC). The
message disappears after a short
period of time.
When the System Does Not
Seem to Work Properly
The URPA system can be turned on
and off using the park assist button
located next to the shift lever.
The following messages may be
displayed on the DIC:
SERVICE PARK ASSIST: If this
message occurs, take the vehicle to
your dealer to repair the system.
The LED next to the park assist
button lights up when the system is
on and turns off when it has been
disabled.
ice, and slush. For cleaning
instructions, see Exterior Care
on page 10‑98.
The park assist sensors are
covered by frost or ice. Frost or
ice can form around and behind
the sensors and may not always
be seen; this can occur after
washing the vehicle in cold
weather. The message may not
clear until the frost or ice has
melted.
An object was hanging out of the
trunk during the last drive cycle.
Once the object is removed,
URPA will return to normal
operation.
The bumper is damaged. Take
the vehicle to your dealer to
repair the system.
Other conditions, such as
vibrations from a jackhammer or
the compression of air brakes on
a very large truck, are affecting
system performance.
URPA defaults to the on setting
each time the vehicle is started.
Turning the System On and Off
PARK ASSIST OFF: If the URPA
system does not activate due to a
temporary condition, this message
displays on the DIC. This can occur
under the following conditions:
The driver has disabled the
system.
The ultrasonic sensors are not
clean. Keep the vehicle's rear
bumper free of mud, dirt, snow,
9-43
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-44
Black plate (44,1)
Driving and Operating
Side Blind Zone
Alert (SBZA)
The vehicle may have a Side Blind
Zone Alert (SBZA) system. Read
this entire section before using the
system.
{ WARNING
SBZA does not detect vehicles
rapidly approaching outside of the
side blind zones, pedestrians,
bicyclists, or animals. Failure to
use proper care when changing
lanes may result in injury, death,
or vehicle damage. Always check
for other vehicles and use the
turn signals when changing lanes.
When the system detects a vehicle
in the side blind zone, amber SBZA
displays will light up in the side
mirrors. This indicates that it may be
unsafe to change lanes. Before
making a lane change, always
check the SBZA display, check the
outside and rearview mirrors, look
over your shoulder for vehicles and
hazards, and use the turn signal.
SBZA Detection Zones
The SBZA sensor covers a zone of
approximately one lane over from
both sides of the vehicle,
or 3.5 m (11 ft). This zone starts at
each side mirror and goes back
approximately 5.0 m (16 ft). The
height of the zone is approximately
between 0.5 m (1.5 ft) and
2.0 m (6 ft) off the ground.
The SBZA detection zones do not
change if the vehicle is towing a
trailer. So be extra careful when
changing lanes while towing a
trailer.
How the System Works
Left Side Mirror Right Side Mirror
Display
Display
When the vehicle is started, both
outside mirror displays will briefly
come on to indicate that the system
is operating. While driving forward,
the left or right side mirror SBZA
display will light up if a vehicle is
detected in that blind zone. If you
activate a turn signal and a vehicle
has been detected on the same
side, the SBZA display will flash to
give you extra warning not to
change lanes.
SBZA displays do not come on
while the vehicle is approaching or
passing other vehicles. At speeds
greater than 32 km/h (20 mph),
SBZA displays may come on when
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (45,1)
Driving and Operating
a vehicle you have passed remains
in or drops back into the
detection zone.
SBZA can be disabled through
vehicle personalization. See Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑40 for
more information. If the SBZA is
disabled by the driver, the SBZA
mirror displays will not light up
during normal driving.
When the System Does Not Seem
to Work Properly
Occasional missed alerts can occur
under normal circumstances and will
increase in wet conditions. The
system does not need to be
serviced due to an occasional
missed alert. The number of missed
alerts will increase with increased
rainfall or road spray.
If the SBZA displays do not light up
when the system is on and vehicles
are in the blind zone, the system
may need service. Take the vehicle
to your dealer.
9-45
SBZA is designed to ignore
stationary objects; however, the
system may occasionally light up
due to guard rails, signs, trees,
shrubs, and other stationary objects.
This is normal system operation; the
vehicle does not need service.
ZONE ALERT ON option will not be
selectable if the conditions for
normal system operation are not
met. Until normal operating
conditions for SBZA are met, you
should not rely upon SBZA while
driving.
SBZA does not operate when the
left or right corners of the rear
bumper are covered with mud, dirt,
snow, ice, or slush, or in heavy
rainstorms. For cleaning
instructions, see Exterior Care on
page 10‑98. If the infotainment
display still shows the SIDE BLIND
ZONE SYS. UNAVAILABLE
message after cleaning the bumper,
see your dealer.
SBZA Error Messages
The SBZA displays may remain on
if a trailer is attached to the vehicle,
or a bicycle or object is extending
out to either side of the vehicle.
When SBZA is disabled for any
reason other than the driver turning
it off, the driver will not be able to
turn SBZA back on using vehicle
personalization. The SIDE BLIND
The following messages may
appear on the infotainment display:
SIDE BLIND ZONE ALERT
SYSTEM OFF: This message
indicates that the driver has turned
the system off.
SIDE BLIND ZONE SYS.
UNAVAILABLE: This message
indicates that the SBZA system is
disabled because the sensor is
blocked and cannot detect vehicles
in the blind zone. The sensor may
be blocked by mud, dirt, snow, ice,
or slush. This message may also
activate during heavy rain or due to
road spray. The vehicle does not
need service. For cleaning, see
Exterior Care on page 10‑98.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-46
Black plate (46,1)
Driving and Operating
SERVICE SIDE BLIND ZONE
ALERT SYSTEM: If this message
appears, both SBZA displays will
remain on indicating there is a
problem with the SBZA system.
If these displays remain on after
continued driving, the system needs
service. Take the vehicle to your
dealer.
FCC Information
See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑20 for FCC information.
Rear Vision
Camera (RVC)
This vehicle may have an
RVC system. Read this entire
section before using it.
The RVC system can assist the
driver when backing up by
displaying a view of the area
behind the vehicle.
{ WARNING
The RVC system does not display
pedestrians, bicyclists, animals,
or any other object located
outside the cameras field of view,
below the bumper, or under the
vehicle.
Do not back the vehicle using
only the RVC screen or by using
the screen during longer, higher
speed backing maneuvers,
or where there could be
cross-traffic. Perceived distances
may be different from actual
distances.
Failure to use proper care before
backing may result in injury,
death, or vehicle damage. Always
check before backing by checking
behind and around the vehicle.
An image appears on the navigation
screen with the message Check
Surroundings for Safety when the
vehicle is shifted into R (Reverse).
The navigation screen goes to the
previous screen after approximately
10 seconds once the vehicle is
shifted out of R (Reverse).
To cancel the delay, do one of the
following:
Press a hard key on the
navigation system.
Shift into P (Park).
Reach a vehicle speed of
8 km/h (5 mph).
Turning the Rear Vision Camera
System On or Off
To turn the RVC system on or off:
1. Shift into P (Park).
2. Press the CONFIG button to
enter the configure menu
options.
3. Select Display.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (47,1)
Driving and Operating
has been disabled and the symbols
have been turned on. See
Ultrasonic Parking Assist on
page 9‑42.
The symbols appear and may
cover an object when viewing the
navigation screen when an object is
detected by the URPA system.
To turn the symbols on or off:
1. Shift into P (Park).
4. Select Rear Camera Options.
5. Select Camera. When a
checkmark appears next to the
Camera option, then the RVC
system is on.
Symbols
The navigation system may have a
feature that lets the driver view
symbols on the navigation screen
while using the RVC. The Ultrasonic
Rear Park Assist (URPA) system
must not be disabled to use the
caution symbols. The error message
Rear Parking Assist Symbols
Unavailable may display if URPA
2. Press the CONFIG button to
enter the configure menu
options.
3. Select Display.
4. Select Rear Camera Options.
5. Select Symbols. When a
checkmark appears next to the
Symbols option, symbols will
appear.
Guidelines
The RVC system has a guideline
overlay that can help the driver align
the vehicle when backing into a
parking spot.
9-47
To turn the guidelines on or off:
1. Shift into P (Park).
2. Press the CONFIG button to
enter the configure menu
options.
3. Select Display.
4. Select Rear Camera Options.
5. Select Guidelines. When a
checkmark appears next to the
Guidelines option, guidelines will
appear.
Rear Vision Camera Error
Messages
SERVICE REAR VISION CAMERA
SYSTEM: This message can
display when the system is not
receiving information it requires from
other vehicle systems.
If any other problem occurs or if a
problem persists, see your dealer.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-48
Black plate (48,1)
Driving and Operating
Rear Vision Camera Location
When the System Does Not
Seem to Work Properly
The RVC system may not work
properly or display a clear image if:
The camera is located above the
license plate.
The area displayed by the camera is
limited. It does not display objects
that are close to either corner or
under the bumper and can vary
depending on vehicle orientation or
road conditions. The distance of the
image that appears on the screen is
different from the actual distance.
The following illustration shows
the field of view that the camera
provides.
A. View displayed by the camera.
B. Corner of the rear bumper.
The RVC is turned off. See
“Turning the Rear Camera
System On or Off” earlier in
this section.
It is dark.
The sun or the beam of
headlamps are shining directly
into the camera lens.
Ice, snow, mud, or anything else
builds up on the camera lens.
Clean the lens, rinse it with
water, and wipe it with a
soft cloth.
The back of the vehicle is in an
accident. The position and
mounting angle of the camera
can change or the camera can
be affected. Be sure to have the
camera and its position and
mounting angle checked at
your dealer.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (49,1)
Driving and Operating
9-49
Fuel
Recommended Fuel
Use of the recommended fuel is
an important part of the proper
maintenance of this vehicle. To help
keep the engine clean and maintain
optimum vehicle performance, we
recommend the use of gasoline
advertised as TOP TIER Detergent
Gasoline.
If the vehicle has a 2.4L L4 engine
(VIN Code C), use regular unleaded
gasoline with a posted octane rating
of 87 or higher. If the octane rating
is less than 87, an audible knocking
noise, commonly referred to as
spark knock, might be heard when
driving. If this occurs, use a
gasoline rated at 87 octane or
higher as soon as possible. If heavy
knocking is heard when using
gasoline rated at 87 octane or
higher, the engine needs service.
Look for the TOP TIER label on the
fuel pump to ensure gasoline meets
enhanced detergency standards
developed by auto companies. A list
of marketers providing TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline can be found at
www.toptiergas.com.
The eighth digit of the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN) shows
the code letter or number that
identifies the vehicle's engine.
The VIN is at the top left of the
instrument panel. See Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN) on
page 12‑1.
If the vehicle has the 3.6L V6 engine
(VIN Code D), use premium
unleaded gasoline with a posted
octane rating of 91 or higher. You
can also use regular unleaded
gasoline rated at 87 octane or
higher, but the vehicle's acceleration
could be slightly reduced, and a
slight audible knocking noise,
commonly referred to as spark
knock, might be heard. If the octane
is less than 87, a heavy knocking
noise might be heard when driving.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-50
Black plate (50,1)
Driving and Operating
If this occurs, use a gasoline rated
at 87 octane or higher as soon as
possible. Otherwise, you could
damage the engine. If heavy
knocking is heard when using
gasoline rated at 87 octane or
higher, the engine needs service.
Gasoline Specifications
(U.S. and Canada Only)
At a minimum, gasoline should
meet ASTM specification D 4814 in
the United States or CAN/CGSB‐3.5
or 3.511 in Canada.
Some gasolines contain an
octane-enhancing additive called
methylcyclopentadienyl manganese
tricarbonyl (MMT). We recommend
against the use of gasolines
containing MMT. See Fuel Additives
on page 9‑50 for additional
information.
California Fuel
Requirements
Fuels in Foreign
Countries
If the vehicle is certified to meet
California Emissions Standards, it is
designed to operate on fuels that
meet California specifications. See
the underhood emission control
label. If this fuel is not available in
states adopting California Emissions
Standards, the vehicle will operate
satisfactorily on fuels meeting
federal specifications, but emission
control system performance might
be affected. The malfunction
indicator lamp could turn on and the
vehicle might fail a smog‐check test.
See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on
page 5‑16. If this occurs, return to
your authorized dealer for diagnosis.
If it is determined that the condition
is caused by the type of fuel used,
repairs might not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Never use leaded gasoline or any
other fuel not recommended in the
previous text on fuel. Costly repairs
caused by use of improper fuel
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
To check the fuel availability, ask an
auto club, or contact a major oil
company that does business in the
country where you will be driving.
Fuel Additives
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines
in the United States are now
required to contain additives that
help prevent engine and fuel system
deposits from forming, allowing the
emission control system to work
properly. In most cases, nothing
should have to be added to the fuel.
However, some gasolines contain
only the minimum amount of
additive required to meet U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (51,1)
Driving and Operating
regulations. To help keep fuel
injectors and intake valves clean
and avoid problems due to dirty
injectors or valves, look for gasoline
that is advertised as TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline. Look for the
TOP TIER label on the fuel pump to
ensure gasoline meets enhanced
detergency standards developed by
the auto companies. A list of
marketers providing TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline can be found at
www.toptiergas.com.
For customers who do not use TOP
TIER Detergent Gasoline regularly,
one bottle of GM Fuel System
Treatment PLUS, added to the fuel
tank at every engine oil change,
can help clean deposits from fuel
injectors and intake valves. GM Fuel
System Treatment PLUS is the only
gasoline additive recommended by
General Motors. It is available at
your dealer.
Gasolines containing oxygenates,
such as ethers and ethanol, and
reformulated gasolines might be
available in your area. We
recommend that you use these
gasolines, if they comply with the
specifications described earlier.
However, E85 (85% ethanol) and
other fuels containing more than
15% ethanol must not be used in
vehicles that were not designed for
those fuels.
Notice: This vehicle was not
designed for fuel that contains
methanol. Do not use fuel
containing methanol. It can
corrode metal parts in the fuel
system and also damage plastic
and rubber parts. That damage
would not be covered under the
vehicle warranty.
9-51
Some gasolines that are not
reformulated for low emissions
can contain an octaneenhancing additive called
methylcyclopentadienyl
manganese tricarbonyl (MMT);
ask the attendant where you buy
gasoline whether the fuel contains
MMT. We recommend against the
use of such gasolines. Fuels
containing MMT can reduce spark
plug life and affect emission control
system performance. The
malfunction indicator lamp might
turn on. If this occurs, return to your
dealer for service.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-52
Black plate (52,1)
Driving and Operating
Filling the Tank
{ WARNING
{ WARNING
Fuel vapor burns violently and a
fuel fire can cause bad injuries.
To help avoid injuries to you and
others, read and follow all the
instructions on the fuel pump
island. Turn off the engine when
refueling. Do not smoke near fuel
or when refueling the vehicle.
Do not use cellular phones. Keep
sparks, flames, and smoking
materials away from fuel. Do not
leave the fuel pump unattended
when refueling the vehicle. This is
against the law in some places.
Do not re-enter the vehicle while
pumping fuel. Keep children away
from the fuel pump; never let
children pump fuel.
The tethered fuel cap is behind the
fuel door on the vehicle's passenger
side. Turn the fuel cap
counterclockwise to remove. While
refueling, hang the tethered fuel cap
from the hook on the fuel door.
Reinstall the cap by turning it
clockwise until it clicks
Fuel can spray out on you if you
open the fuel cap too quickly.
If you spill fuel and then
something ignites it, you could be
badly burned. This spray can
happen if the tank is nearly full,
and is more likely in hot weather.
Open the fuel cap slowly and wait
for any hiss noise to stop. Then
unscrew the cap all the way.
Do not top off or overfill the tank and
wait a few seconds before removing
the nozzle. Clean fuel from painted
surfaces as soon as possible. See
Exterior Care on page 10‑98.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (53,1)
Driving and Operating
{ WARNING
If a fire starts while you are
refueling, do not remove the
nozzle. Shut off the flow of fuel by
shutting off the pump or by
notifying the station attendant.
Leave the area immediately.
Notice: If a new fuel cap is
needed, be sure to get the right
type of cap from your dealer. The
wrong type of fuel cap might not
fit properly, might cause the
malfunction indicator lamp to
light, and could damage the fuel
tank and emissions system. See
Malfunction Indicator Lamp on
page 5‑16.
Filling a Portable Fuel
Container
{ WARNING
Never fill a portable fuel container
while it is in the vehicle. Static
electricity discharge from the
container can ignite the fuel
vapor. You can be badly burned
and the vehicle damaged if this
occurs. To help avoid injury to you
and others:
Dispense fuel only into
approved containers.
Do not fill a container while it
is inside a vehicle, in a
vehicle's trunk, pickup bed,
or on any surface other than
the ground.
(Continued)
9-53
WARNING (Continued)
Bring the fill nozzle in contact
with the inside of the fill
opening before operating the
nozzle. Contact should be
maintained until the filling is
complete.
Do not smoke while
pumping fuel.
Do not use a cellular phone
while pumping fuel.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-54
Black plate (54,1)
Driving and Operating
Towing
General Towing
Information
Only use towing equipment that has
been designed for the vehicle.
Contact your dealer or trailering
dealer for assistance with preparing
the vehicle for towing a trailer.
See the following trailer towing
information in this section:
For information on driving while
towing a trailer, see “Driving
Characteristics and
Towing Tips.”
For maximum vehicle and trailer
weights, see “Trailer Towing.”
For information on equipment to
tow a trailer, see “Towing
Equipment.”
For information on towing a disabled
vehicle, see Towing the Vehicle on
page 10‑94. For information on
towing the vehicle behind another
vehicle such as a motor home, see
Recreational Vehicle Towing on
page 10‑95.
Driving Characteristics
and Towing Tips
{ WARNING
The driver can lose control when
pulling a trailer if the correct
equipment is not used or the
vehicle is not driven properly.
For example, if the trailer is too
heavy, the brakes may not work
well — or even at all. The driver
and passengers could be
seriously injured. The vehicle may
also be damaged; the resulting
repairs would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Pull a trailer
only if all the steps in this section
have been followed. Ask your
dealer for advice and information
about towing a trailer with the
vehicle.
The vehicle can tow a trailer when
equipped with the proper trailer
towing equipment. For trailering
capacity, see Trailer Towing (Except
eAssist) on page 9‑57 or Trailer
Towing (eAssist) on page 9‑59.
Trailering changes handling,
acceleration, braking, durability, and
fuel economy. With the added
weight, the engine, transmission,
wheel assemblies, and tires are
forced to work harder and under
greater loads. The trailer also adds
wind resistance, increasing the
pulling requirements. For safe
trailering, correctly use the proper
trailering equipment.
The following information has
important trailering tips and rules
for your safety and that of your
passengers. Read this section
carefully before pulling a trailer.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (55,1)
Driving and Operating
Pulling a Trailer
Driving with a Trailer
Here are some important points:
Towing a trailer requires experience.
Get familiar with handling and
braking with the added trailer
weight. The vehicle is now longer
and not as responsive as the
vehicle is by itself.
There are many laws, including
speed limit restrictions that apply
to trailering. Check for legal
requirements.
Do not tow a trailer at all during
the first 1 600 km (1,000 mi) the
new vehicle is driven. The
engine, axle, or other parts could
be damaged.
During the first 800 km (500 mi)
that a trailer is towed, do not
drive over 80 km/h (50 mph) and
do not make starts at full throttle.
This reduces wear on the
vehicle.
The vehicle can tow in D (Drive).
Use a lower gear if the
transmission shifts too often.
Obey speed limit restrictions.
Do not drive faster than the
maximum posted speed for
trailers, or no more than
90 km/h (55 mph), to reduce
wear on the vehicle.
Check all trailer hitch parts and
attachments, safety chains,
electrical connectors, lamps, tires,
and mirror adjustments. If the trailer
has electric brakes, start the vehicle
and trailer moving and then apply
the trailer brake controller by hand
to be sure the brakes are working.
During the trip, check regularly to
be sure that the load is secure, and
the lamps and trailer brakes are
working properly.
Towing with a Stability Control
System
When towing, the sound of the
stability control system might be
heard. The system is reacting to the
vehicle movement caused by the
9-55
trailer, which mainly occurs during
cornering. This is normal when
towing heavier trailers.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the
vehicle ahead as you would when
driving the vehicle without a trailer.
This can help to avoid situations
that require heavy braking and
sudden turns.
Passing
More passing distance is needed
when towing a trailer. Because the
rig is longer, it is necessary to go
farther beyond the passed vehicle
before returning to the lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering
wheel with one hand. To move the
trailer to the left, move that hand to
the left. To move the trailer to the
right, move your hand to the right.
Always back up slowly and,
if possible, have someone
guide you.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-56
Black plate (56,1)
Driving and Operating
Making Turns
Notice: Making very sharp turns
while trailering could cause the
trailer to come in contact with the
vehicle. The vehicle could be
damaged. Avoid making very
sharp turns while trailering.
When turning with a trailer, make
wider turns than normal so the
trailer will not strike soft shoulders,
curbs, road signs, trees, or other
objects. Use the turn signal well in
advance and avoid jerky or sudden
maneuvers.
Turn Signals when Towing a
Trailer
The turn signal indicators on the
instrument panel flash whenever
signaling a turn or lane change.
Properly hooked up, the trailer
lamps also flash, telling other
drivers the vehicle is turning,
changing lanes, or stopping.
When towing a trailer, the arrows on
the instrument panel flash for turns
even if the bulbs on the trailer are
burned out. Check occasionally to
be sure the trailer bulbs are still
working.
turning the engine off. If the
overheat warning comes on, see
Engine Overheating on page 10‑19.
Driving on Grades
Parking on Hills
Reduce speed and shift to a lower
gear before starting down a long or
steep downgrade. If the
transmission is not shifted down, the
brakes might have to be used so
much that they would get hot and no
longer work well.
The vehicle can tow in D (Drive).
Use a lower gear if the transmission
shifts too often.
When towing at high altitude on
steep uphill grades, engine coolant
boils at a lower temperature than at
normal altitudes. If the engine is
turned off immediately after towing
at high altitude on steep uphill
grades, the vehicle could show
signs similar to engine overheating.
To avoid this, let the engine run
while parked, preferably on level
ground, with the transmission in
P (Park) for a few minutes before
{ WARNING
Parking the vehicle on a hill with
the trailer attached can be
dangerous. If something goes
wrong, the rig could start to move.
People can be injured, and both
the vehicle and the trailer can be
damaged. When possible, always
park the rig on a flat surface.
If parking the rig on a hill:
1. Press the brake pedal, but do
not shift into P (Park) yet. Turn
the wheels into the curb if facing
downhill or into traffic if facing
uphill.
2. Have someone place chocks
under the trailer wheels.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (57,1)
Driving and Operating
3. When the wheel chocks are in
place, release the brake pedal
until the chocks absorb the load.
4. Reapply the brake pedal. Then
apply the parking brake and shift
into P (Park).
5. Release the brake pedal.
Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal
while you:
1.1. Start the engine.
1.2. Shift into a gear.
1.3. Release the parking brake.
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is
clear of the chocks.
4. Stop and have someone pick up
and store the chocks.
9-57
Maintenance when Trailer
Towing
Trailer Towing
(Except eAssist)
The vehicle needs service more
often when pulling a trailer. See the
Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3. Things that are
especially important in trailer
operation are automatic
transmission fluid, engine oil, axle
lubricant, belts, cooling system, and
brake system. Inspect these before
and during the trip.
Before pulling a trailer, there are
three important considerations that
have to do with weight:
Check periodically to see that all
hitch nuts and bolts are tight.
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
Engine Cooling when Trailer
Towing
The cooling system may temporarily
overheat during severe operating
conditions. See Engine Overheating
on page 10‑19.
The weight of the trailer.
The weight of the trailer tongue.
The total weight on your
vehicle's tires.
Weight of the Trailer
For a vehicle with a V6 engine, it
should never weigh more than
454 kg (1,000 lbs). But even that
can be too heavy.
It depends on how the rig is used.
For example, speed, altitude, road
grades, outside temperature, and
how much the vehicle is used to pull
a trailer are all important. It can
depend on any special equipment
on the vehicle, and the amount of
tongue weight the vehicle can carry.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-58
Black plate (58,1)
Driving and Operating
See “Weight of the Trailer Tongue”
later in this section for more
information.
Maximum trailer weight is calculated
assuming only the driver is in the
tow vehicle and it has all the
required trailering equipment.
The weight of additional optional
equipment, passengers, and
cargo in the tow vehicle must be
subtracted from the maximum
trailer weight.
Ask your dealer for trailering
information or advice, or write us at
our Customer Assistance Offices.
See Customer Assistance Offices
(U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑4 or
Customer Assistance Offices
(Mexico) on page 13‑5 for more
information.
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is
an important weight to measure
because it affects the total gross
weight of the vehicle. The Gross
Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the
curb weight of the vehicle, any
cargo carried in it, and the people
who will be riding in the vehicle.
If there are a lot of options,
equipment, passengers, or cargo in
the vehicle, it will reduce the tongue
weight the vehicle can carry, which
will also reduce the trailer weight the
vehicle can tow. If towing a trailer,
the tongue load must be added to
the GVW because the vehicle will
be carrying that weight, too. See
Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑10
for more information.
The trailer tongue (A) should weigh
10 to 15 percent of the total loaded
trailer weight (B).
After loading the trailer, weigh the
trailer and then the tongue,
separately, to see if the weights are
proper. If they are not, adjustments
might be made by moving some
items around in the trailer.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (59,1)
Driving and Operating
Total Weight on Your Vehicle's
Tires
Be sure the vehicle's tires are
inflated to the upper limit for cold
tires. These numbers can be found
on the Information label. See
Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑10.
Make sure not to go over the
GVW limit for the vehicle, including
the weight of the trailer tongue.
Towing Equipment
Safety Chains
Hitches
Always attach chains between the
vehicle and the trailer. Cross the
safety chains under the tongue of
the trailer to help prevent the tongue
from contacting the road if it
becomes separated from the hitch.
Leave enough slack so the rig can
turn. Never allow safety chains to
drag on the ground.
Use the correct hitch equipment.
See your dealer or a hitch dealer
for assistance.
Trailer Towing (eAssist)
The vehicle is neither designed nor
intended to tow a trailer.
9-59
The rear bumper on the vehicle
is not intended for hitches. Do
not attach rental hitches or other
bumper-type hitches to it. Use
only a frame-mounted hitch that
does not attach to the bumper.
Will any holes be made in the
body of the vehicle when the
trailer hitch is installed? If there
are, seal the holes when the
hitch is removed. If the holes are
not sealed, dirt, water, and
deadly carbon monoxide (CO)
from the exhaust can get into the
vehicle. See Engine Exhaust on
page 9‑28.
Trailer Brakes
Does the trailer have its own
brakes? Be sure to read and follow
the instructions for the trailer brakes
so they are installed, adjusted, and
maintained properly.
Because the vehicle has antilock
brakes, do not tap into the vehicle's
brake system. If this is done, both
brake systems will not work well,
or at all.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
9-60
Black plate (60,1)
Driving and Operating
Conversions and
Add-Ons
Add-On Electrical
Equipment
Notice: Do not add anything
electrical to the vehicle unless
you check with your dealer first.
Some electrical equipment can
damage the vehicle and the
damage would not be covered by
the vehicle's warranty. Some
add-on electrical equipment can
keep other components from
working as they should.
Add-on equipment can drain the
vehicle's 12‐volt battery, even if
the vehicle is not operating.
The vehicle has an airbag system.
Before attempting to add anything
electrical to the vehicle, see
Servicing the Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle on page 3‑31 and Adding
Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle on page 3‑32.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (1,1)
Vehicle Care
Vehicle Care
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . .
California Proposition
65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
California Perchlorate
Materials Requirements . . . .
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10-3
10-3
10-3
10-3
Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own
Service Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
Engine Compartment
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-9
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . 10-12
Automatic Transmission
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . 10-13
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . 10-19
Overheated Engine
Protection
Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20
Power Steering Fluid
(2.4L L4 Engine) . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Power Steering Fluid
(3.6L V6 Engine) . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Brake Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-23
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-25
Starter Switch Check . . . . . . . 10-26
Automatic Transmission Shift
Lock Control Function
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-26
Ignition Transmission Lock
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27
Park Brake and P (Park)
Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . 10-27
Wiper Blade
Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27
10-1
Headlamp Aiming
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
High Intensity Discharge
(HID) Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Taillamps, Turn Signal,
Stoplamps, and Back-Up
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
License Plate Lamp . . . . . . . . 10-34
Replacement Bulbs . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-2
Black plate (2,1)
Vehicle Care
Electrical System
High Voltage Devices and
Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Electrical System
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Instrument Panel
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-40
Rear Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42
Wheels and Tires
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44
Winter Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-45
Tire Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . 10-46
Tire Designations . . . . . . . . . . . 10-48
Tire Terminology and
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-49
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51
Tire Pressure Monitor
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-53
Tire Pressure Monitor
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
Tire Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Tire Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-58
When It Is Time for
New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-60
Different Size Tires and
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-61
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-62
Wheel Alignment and
Tire Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-63
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . 10-63
Tire Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-64
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . 10-64
Tire Sealant and Compressor
Kit (With Pressure Relief
Button) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-67
Tire Sealant and Compressor
Kit (With Pressure Deflation
Button) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-74
Storing the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . 10-82
Tire Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . 10-89
Jump Starting
Jump Starting (with or
without eAssist) . . . . . . . . . . . 10-90
Jump Starting (On-board
with eAssist Only) . . . . . . . . . 10-93
Towing
Towing the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . 10-94
Recreational Vehicle
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-95
Appearance Care
Exterior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-98
Interior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-101
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-104
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (3,1)
Vehicle Care
General Information
For service and parts needs, visit
your dealer. You will receive
genuine GM parts and GM-trained
and supported service people.
Genuine GM parts have one of
these marks:
cause cancer and birth defects or
other reproductive harm. Engine
exhaust, many parts and systems,
many fluids, and some component
wear by-products contain and/or
emit these chemicals.
California Perchlorate
Materials Requirements
Certain types of automotive
applications, such as airbag
initiators, seat belt pretensioners,
and lithium batteries contained in
Remote Keyless Entry transmitters,
may contain perchlorate materials.
Special handling may be necessary.
For additional information, see
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/
perchlorate.
California Proposition
65 Warning
Most motor vehicles, including this
one, contain and/or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
Accessories and
Modifications
Adding non‐dealer accessories or
making modifications to the vehicle
can affect vehicle performance and
safety, including such things as
airbags, braking, stability, ride and
10-3
handling, emissions systems,
aerodynamics, durability, and
electronic systems like antilock
brakes, traction control, and stability
control. These accessories or
modifications could even cause
malfunction or damage not covered
by the vehicle warranty.
Damage to vehicle components
resulting from modifications or the
installation or use of non‐GM
certified parts, including control
module or software modifications, is
not covered under the terms of the
vehicle warranty and may affect
remaining warranty coverage for
affected parts.
GM Accessories are designed to
complement and function with other
systems on the vehicle. See your
dealer to accessorize the vehicle
using genuine GM Accessories
installed by a dealer technician.
Also, see Adding Equipment to the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on
page 3‑32.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-4
Black plate (4,1)
Vehicle Care
Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own
Service Work
eAssist Vehicles Only
{ WARNING
Never try to do your own service
on eAssist components. You can
be injured and the vehicle can be
damaged if you try to do your own
service work. Service and repair
of these eAssist components
should only be performed by a
trained service technician with the
proper knowledge and tools.
All Vehicles
{ WARNING
You can be injured and the
vehicle could be damaged if you
try to do service work on a vehicle
without knowing enough about it.
Be sure you have sufficient
knowledge, experience, the
proper replacement parts,
and tools before
attempting any vehicle
maintenance task.
Be sure to use the proper
nuts, bolts, and other
fasteners. Metric and English
fasteners can be easily
confused. If the wrong
fasteners are used, parts
can later break or fall off.
You could be hurt.
If doing some of your own service
work, use the proper service
manual. It tells you much more
about how to service the vehicle
than this manual can. To order the
proper service manual, see Service
Publications Ordering Information
on page 13‑16.
This vehicle has an airbag system.
Before attempting to do your own
service work, see Airbag System
Check on page 3‑33.
Keep a record with all parts receipts
and list the mileage and the date of
any service work performed. See
Maintenance Records on
page 11‑17.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (5,1)
Vehicle Care
10-5
Hood
To close the hood:
To open the hood:
1. Before closing the hood, be sure
all the filler caps are on properly.
2. Lower the hood 30 cm (12 in)
above the vehicle and release it
so it fully latches. Check to
make sure the hood is closed
and repeat the process if
necessary.
1. Pull the interior hood release
handle located to the left of the
steering column below the
instrument panel.
2. Go to the front of the vehicle
and push the secondary hood
release handle toward the driver
side of the vehicle.
3. Lift the hood.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-6
Black plate (6,1)
Vehicle Care
Engine Compartment Overview
2.4L L4 Engine
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (7,1)
Vehicle Care
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on
page 10‑13.
B. Engine Cover.
C. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of
View). See Cooling System on
page 10‑15.
D. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9.
E. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of
View). See Engine Oil on
page 10‑9.
F.
I.
Battery (Under Cover).
See Battery on page 10‑25.
J.
Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap. See Engine
Coolant on page 10‑16.
High Voltage Cable
(Orange Color).
G. Transmission Fluid Cap.
See Automatic Transmission
Fluid on page 10‑13.
H. Brake Master Cylinder
Reservoir. See Brakes on
page 10‑22.
10-7
K. Engine Compartment Fuse
Block on page 10‑36.
L.
Windshield Washer Fluid
Reservoir. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑22.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-8
Black plate (8,1)
Vehicle Care
3.6L V6 Engine
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (9,1)
Vehicle Care
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on
page 10‑13.
B. Power Steering Reservoir and
Cap. See Power Steering Fluid
(2.4L L4 Engine) on page 10‑21
or Power Steering Fluid (3.6L
V6 Engine) on page 10‑21.
C. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9.
D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9.
E. Engine Cover.
F.
Transmission Fluid Cap and
Dipstick. See Automatic
Transmission Fluid on
page 10‑13.
G. Brake Master Cylinder
Reservoir. See Brakes on
page 10‑22.
H. Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap. See Engine
Coolant on page 10‑16.
I.
J.
Battery Cover. See Battery on
page 10‑25.
Engine Oil
To ensure proper engine
performance and long life, careful
attention must be paid to engine oil.
Following these simple, but
important steps will help protect
your investment:
Always use engine oil approved
to the proper specification and of
the proper viscosity grade. See
“Selecting the Right Engine Oil”
in this section.
Check the engine oil level
regularly and maintain the
proper oil level. See “Checking
Engine Oil” and “When to Add
Engine Oil” in this section.
Change the engine oil at the
appropriate time. See Engine Oil
Life System on page 10‑12.
Always dispose of engine oil
properly. See “What to Do with
Used Oil” in this section.
Engine Compartment Fuse
Block on page 10‑36.
K. Windshield Washer Fluid
Reservoir. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑22.
10-9
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-10
Black plate (10,1)
Vehicle Care
Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine
oil level at each fuel fill. In order to
get an accurate reading, the vehicle
must be on level ground. The
engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow
loop. See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 10‑6 for the
location of the engine oil dipstick.
Obtaining an accurate oil level
reading is essential:
1. If the engine has been running
recently, turn off the engine and
allow several minutes for the oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
Checking the oil level too soon
after engine shutoff will not
provide an accurate oil level
reading.
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it
with a paper towel or cloth, then
push it back in all the way.
Remove it again, keeping the
tip down, and check the level.
When to Add Engine Oil
If the oil is below the cross-hatched
area at the tip of the dipstick, add
1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil
and then recheck the level. See
“Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in
this section for an explanation of
what kind of oil to use. For engine
oil crankcase capacity, see
Capacities and Specifications on
page 12‑2.
Notice: Do not add too much oil.
Oil levels above or below the
acceptable operating range
shown on the dipstick are harmful
to the engine. If you find that you
have an oil level above the
operating range, i.e., the engine
has so much oil that the oil level
gets above the cross-hatched
area that shows the proper
operating range, the engine could
be damaged. You should drain
out the excess oil or limit driving
of the vehicle and seek a service
professional to remove the
excess amount of oil.
See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10‑6 for the location of the
engine oil fill cap.
Add enough oil to put the level
somewhere in the proper operating
range. Push the dipstick all the way
back in when through.
Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil
depends on both the proper oil
specification and viscosity grade.
See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑14.
Specification
Use and ask for licensed engine oils
with the dexos1™ approved
certification mark. Engine oils
meeting the requirements for the
vehicle should have the dexos1
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (11,1)
Vehicle Care
approved certification mark. This
certification mark indicates that the
oil has been approved to the dexos1
specification.
Notice: Failure to use the
recommended engine oil or
equivalent can result in engine
damage not covered by the
vehicle warranty. Check with your
dealer or service provider on
whether the oil is approved to the
dexos1 specification.
10-11
If in an area of extreme cold, where
the temperature falls below −20°F
(−29°C), an SAE 0W‐30 oil should
be used. An oil of this viscosity
grade will provide easier cold
starting for the engine at extremely
low temperatures. When selecting
an oil of the appropriate viscosity
grade, always select an oil that
meets the dexos1 specification or
equivalent. See “Specification” for
more information.
What to Do with Used Oil
Engine Oil Additives/Engine
Oil Flushes
Used oil can be a threat to the
environment. If you change your
own oil, be sure to drain all the oil
from the filter before disposal. Never
dispose of oil by putting it in the
trash or pouring it on the ground,
into sewers, or into streams or
bodies of water. Recycle it by taking
it to a place that collects used oil.
Viscosity Grade
Do not add anything to the oil. The
recommended oils with the dexos
specification and displaying the
dexos certification mark are all that
is needed for good performance and
engine protection.
SAE 5W‐30 is the best viscosity
grade for the vehicle. Do not use
other viscosity grade oils such as
SAE 10W‐30, 10W‐40, or 20W‐50.
Engine oil system flushes are not
recommended and could cause
engine damage not covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Used engine oil contains certain
elements that can be unhealthy for
your skin and could even cause
cancer. Do not let used oil stay on
your skin for very long. Clean your
skin and nails with soap and water,
or a good hand cleaner. Wash or
properly dispose of clothing or rags
containing used engine oil. See the
manufacturer's warnings about the
use and disposal of oil products.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-12
Black plate (12,1)
Vehicle Care
Engine Oil Life System
When to Change Engine Oil
This vehicle has a computer system
that indicates when to change the
engine oil and filter. This is based
on a combination of factors which
include engine revolutions, engine
temperature, and miles driven.
Based on driving conditions, the
mileage at which an oil change is
indicated can vary considerably. For
the oil life system to work properly,
the system must be reset every time
the oil is changed.
When the system has calculated
that oil life has been diminished, it
indicates that an oil change is
necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE
OIL SOON message comes on. See
Engine Oil Messages on page 5‑35.
Change the oil as soon as possible
within the next 1 000 km (600 mi).
It is possible that, if driving under
the best conditions, the oil life
system might indicate that an oil
change is not necessary for up to a
year. The engine oil and filter must
be changed at least once a year
and, at this time, the system must
be reset. Your dealer has trained
service people who will perform this
work and reset the system. It is also
important to check the oil regularly
over the course of an oil drain
interval and keep it at the
proper level.
If the system is ever reset
accidentally, the oil must be
changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
since the last oil change.
Remember to reset the oil life
system whenever the oil is changed.
How to Reset the Engine Oil
Life System
Reset the system whenever the
engine oil is changed so that the
system can calculate the next
engine oil change. To reset the
system:
1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with
the engine off.
2. Press the DIC MENU button on
the turn signal lever to enter the
Vehicle Information Menu. Use
the thumbwheel to scroll through
the menu items until you reach
REMAINING OIL LIFE.
3. Press the SET/CLR button to
reset the oil life at 100%.
4. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (13,1)
Vehicle Care
The system is reset when the
CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
message is off and the REMAINING
OIL LIFE 100% message is
displayed.
If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL
message comes back on when the
vehicle is started, the engine oil life
system has not been reset. Repeat
the procedure.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid
How to Check Automatic
Transmission Fluid
It is not necessary to check the
transmission fluid level.
A transmission fluid leak is the only
reason for fluid loss. If a leak
occurs, take the vehicle to your
dealer service department and have
it repaired as soon as possible.
10-13
There is a special procedure for
checking and changing the
transmission fluid. Because this
procedure is difficult, you should
have this done at your dealer
service department. Contact your
dealer for additional information or
the procedure can be found in the
service manual. To purchase a
service manual, see Service
Publications Ordering Information
on page 13‑16.
When to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter
Change the fluid and filter at the
intervals listed in Maintenance
Schedule on page 11‑3, and be
sure to use the fluid listed in
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑14.
How to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
The engine air cleaner/filter is
located in the engine compartment
on the driver side of the vehicle.
See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10‑6 for more information
on location.
Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the
scheduled maintenance intervals
and replace it at the first oil change
after each 80 000 km (50,000 mi)
interval. See Maintenance Schedule
on page 11‑3 for more information.
If you are driving in dusty/dirty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
engine oil change.
To inspect the air cleaner/filter,
remove the filter from the vehicle
and lightly shake the filter to release
loose dust and dirt. If the filter
remains covered with dirt, a new
filter is required.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-14
Black plate (14,1)
Vehicle Care
To inspect or replace the engine air
cleaner/filter:
5. Lower the filter cover housing
toward the engine.
4. Inspect or replace the engine air
cleaner/filter.
2.4L L4 Engine
6. Install the six screws on the top
of the housing to lock the cover
in place.
5. Lower the filter cover housing
toward the engine.
3.6L V6 Engine
6. Install the screws on the top of
the housing to lock the cover in
place.
{ WARNING
Operating the engine with the air
cleaner/filter off can cause you or
others to be burned. The air
cleaner not only cleans the air; it
helps to stop flames if the engine
backfires. Use caution when
working on the engine and do not
drive with the air cleaner/filter off.
1. Remove the six screws on top of
the engine air cleaner/filter
housing.
2. Lift the filter cover housing away
from the engine air cleaner/filter
housing.
1. Remove the screws on top of
the engine air cleaner/filter
housing.
3. Pull out the filter.
2. Lift the filter cover housing away
from the engine.
4. Inspect or replace the engine air
cleaner/filter.
3. Pull out the filter.
Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is
off, dirt can easily get into the
engine, which could damage it.
Always have the air cleaner/filter
in place when you are driving.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (15,1)
Vehicle Care
Cooling System
3.6L V6 Engine
The cooling system allows the
engine to maintain the correct
working temperature.
2.4L L4 Engine
Do not run the engine if there is a
leak. If you run the engine, it
could lose all coolant. That could
cause an engine fire, and you
could be burned. Get any leak
fixed before you drive the vehicle.
A. Engine Cooling Fans
(Out of View)
B. Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap
B. Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap
{ WARNING
Heater and radiator hoses, and
other engine parts, can be very
hot. Do not touch them. If you do,
you can be burned.
When it is safe to lift the hood:
A. Engine Cooling Fans (Out
of View)
10-15
{ WARNING
An electric engine cooling fan
under the hood can start up even
when the engine is not running
and can cause injury. Keep
hands, clothing, and tools away
from any underhood electric fan.
Notice: Using coolant other than
DEX-COOL® can cause premature
engine, heater core, or radiator
corrosion. In addition, the engine
coolant could require changing
sooner. Any repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always use DEX-COOL
(silicate-free) coolant in
the vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-16
Black plate (16,1)
Vehicle Care
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in the vehicle is
filled with DEX-COOL® engine
coolant mixture. See Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑14
and Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3 for more information.
mixture, the engine could get too
hot but you would not get the
overheat warning. The engine
could catch fire and you or others
could be burned. Use a 50/
50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and DEX-COOL coolant for
non-eAssist engine(s). Use a 50/
50 mixture of deionized water and
DEX-COOL coolant for eAssist
engine(s).
The following explains the cooling
system and how to check and add
coolant when it is low. If there is a
problem with engine overheating,
see Engine Overheating on
page 10‑19.
What to Use
{ WARNING
Adding only plain water or some
other liquid to the cooling system
can be dangerous. Plain water
and other liquids, can boil before
the proper coolant mixture will.
The coolant warning system is set
for the proper coolant mixture.
With plain water or the wrong
(Continued)
Protects against rust and
corrosion.
Will not damage aluminum parts.
Helps keep the proper engine
temperature.
WARNING (Continued)
Use a 50/50 mixture of deionized
water or clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL coolant. If using this
mixture, nothing else needs to
be added.
This mixture:
Gives freezing protection down
to −37°C (−34°F), outside
temperature.
Gives boiling protection up to
129°C (265°F), engine
temperature.
Notice: If an improper coolant
mixture is used, the engine could
overheat and be badly damaged.
The repair cost would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Too much deionized water or
clean, drinkable water in the
mixture can freeze and crack the
engine, radiator, heater core, and
other parts.
Never dispose of engine coolant by
putting it in the trash, pouring it on
the ground, or into sewers, streams,
or bodies of water. Have the coolant
changed by an authorized service
center, familiar with legal
requirements regarding used
coolant disposal. This will help
protect the environment and
your health.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (17,1)
Vehicle Care
Checking Coolant
The vehicle must be on a level
surface when checking the
coolant level.
Check to see if coolant is visible in
the coolant surge tank. If the coolant
inside the coolant surge tank is
boiling, do not do anything else
until it cools down.
If coolant is visible but the coolant
level is not at or above the mark
pointed to, add a 50/50 mixture of
deionized water or clean drinkable
water and DEX-COOL coolant.
Be sure the cooling system is cool
before this is done.
If no coolant is visible in the coolant
surge tank, add coolant as follows:
How to Add Coolant to the
Coolant Surge Tank
{ WARNING
You can be burned if you spill
coolant on hot engine parts.
Coolant contains ethylene glycol
and it will burn if the engine parts
are hot enough. Do not spill
coolant on a hot engine.
Notice: This vehicle has a
specific coolant fill procedure.
Failure to follow this procedure
could cause the engine to
overheat and be severely
damaged.
10-17
{ WARNING
An electric engine cooling fan
under the hood can start up even
when the engine is not running
and can cause injury. Keep
hands, clothing, and tools away
from any underhood electric fan.
{ WARNING
Steam and scalding liquids from a
hot cooling system can blow out
and burn you badly. They are
under pressure, and if you turn
the surge tank pressure
cap — even a little — they can
come out at high speed. Never
turn the cap when the cooling
system, including the surge tank
pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the
cooling system and surge tank
pressure cap to cool if you ever
have to turn the pressure cap.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-18
Black plate (18,1)
Vehicle Care
The coolant surge tank pressure
cap can be removed when the
cooling system, including the surge
tank pressure cap and upper
radiator hose, is no longer hot.
1. Turn the pressure cap slowly
counterclockwise. If a hiss is
heard, wait for that to stop.
A hiss means there is still
some pressure left.
2. Keep turning the cap and
remove it.
3. Fill the coolant surge tank with
the proper mixture to the mark
pointed to on the front of the
coolant surge tank.
4. With the coolant surge tank cap
off, start the engine and let it run
until the upper radiator hose
starts getting hot. Watch out for
the engine cooling fans. By this
time, the coolant level inside the
coolant surge tank may be
lower. If the level is lower, add
more of the proper mixture to the
coolant surge tank until the level
reaches the mark pointed to on
the front of the coolant
surge tank.
5. Replace the cap. Be sure the
cap is hand–tight and fully
seated.
Notice: If the pressure cap is not
tightly installed, coolant loss and
possible engine damage may
occur. Be sure the cap is properly
and tightly secured.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (19,1)
Vehicle Care
Engine Overheating
2.4L L4 Engine
There is a engine coolant
temperature warning light on the
instrument panel cluster that
indicates an overheated engine
condition. See Engine Coolant
Temperature Warning Light on
page 5‑22 for more information.
3.6L V6 Engine
There is a coolant temperature
gauge and a engine coolant
temperature warning light on the
instrument panel cluster that
indicate an overheated engine
condition. See Engine Coolant
Temperature Gauge on page 5‑13
and Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light on page 5‑22 for
more information.
If the decision is made not to lift the
hood when this warning appears,
get service help right away. See
Roadside Assistance Program (U.S.
and Canada) on page 13‑9 or
Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑9.
If the decision is made to lift the
hood, make sure the vehicle is
parked on a level surface.
Then check to see if the engine
cooling fans are running. If the
engine is overheating, the fans
should be running. If not, do not
continue to run the engine and
have the vehicle serviced.
Notice: Engine damage from
running the engine without
coolant is not covered by the
warranty.
If Steam Is Coming from the
Engine Compartment
See Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode on page 10‑20 for
information on driving to a safe
place in an emergency.
10-19
If No Steam Is Coming from
the Engine Compartment
If an engine overheat warning is
displayed but no steam can be seen
or heard, the problem might not be
too serious. Sometimes the engine
can get a little too hot when
the vehicle:
Climbs a long hill on a hot day.
Stops after high-speed driving.
Idles for long periods in traffic.
Tows a trailer.
If the overheat warning displays with
no sign of steam:
1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest
temperature and to the highest
fan speed. Open the windows
as necessary.
3. In heavy traffic, let the engine
idle in N (Neutral) while stopped.
If it is safe to do so, pull off the
road, shift to P (Park) or
N (Neutral), and let the
engine idle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-20
Black plate (20,1)
Vehicle Care
2.4L L4 Engine
If the engine coolant temperature
warning light no longer displays, the
vehicle can be driven. Continue to
drive the vehicle slowly for about
10 minutes. Keep a safe vehicle
distance from the vehicle in front.
If the warning does not come back
on, continue to drive normally.
3.6L V6 Engine
If the temperature overheat gauge is
no longer in the overheat zone or an
engine coolant temperature warning
light no longer displays, the vehicle
can be driven. Continue to drive the
vehicle slowly for about 10 minutes.
Keep a safe vehicle distance from
the vehicle in front. If the warning
does not come back on, continue to
drive normally.
If the warning continues, pull over,
stop, and park the vehicle
right away.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the
engine for three minutes while
parked. If the warning is still
displayed, turn off the engine until it
cools down. Also, see Overheated
Engine Protection Operating Mode
on page 10‑20.
Overheated Engine
Protection
Operating Mode
This emergency operating mode
allows the vehicle to be driven to a
safe place in an emergency
situation. If an overheated engine
condition exists, an overheat
protection mode which alternates
firing groups of cylinders helps
prevent engine damage. In this
mode, there is significant loss in
power and engine performance.
2.4L L4 Engine
The engine coolant temperature
warning light comes on the
instrument panel, to indicate the
vehicle has entered overheated
engine protection operating mode.
Driving extended distances and/or
towing a trailer in the overheat
protection mode should be avoided.
3.6L V6 Engine
The engine coolant temperature
warning light comes on the
instrument panel, to indicate the
vehicle has entered overheated
engine protection operating mode.
The temperature gauge also
indicates an overheat condition
exists. Driving extended distances
and/or towing a trailer in the
overheat protection mode should
be avoided.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (21,1)
Vehicle Care
Power Steering Fluid
(2.4L L4 Engine)
A fluid loss in this system could
indicate a problem. Have the
system inspected and repaired.
The vehicle has electric power
steering and does not use power
steering fluid.
How to Check Power Steering
Fluid
Power Steering Fluid
(3.6L V6 Engine)
Check the level after the vehicle has
been driven for at least 20 minutes
so the fluid is warm.
10-21
To check the power steering fluid:
1. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF
and let the engine compartment
cool down.
2. Wipe the cap and the top of the
reservoir clean.
See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10‑6 for information on the
location of the power steering fluid
reservoir.
3. Unscrew the cap and pull it
straight up.
When to Check Power Steering
Fluid
5. Replace the cap and completely
tighten it.
It is not necessary to regularly
check power steering fluid unless a
leak is suspected in the system or
an unusual noise is heard.
6. Remove the cap again and look
at the fluid level on the dipstick.
4. Wipe the dipstick with a
clean rag.
When the engine is hot, the level
should be at the hot MAX level.
When the engine is cold, the fluid
level should be between MIN and
MAX on the dipstick.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to
use, see Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑14. Always
use the proper fluid.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-22
Black plate (22,1)
Vehicle Care
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When windshield washer fluid is
needed, be sure to read the
manufacturer's instructions before
use. If operating the vehicle in an
area where the temperature may fall
below freezing, use a fluid that has
sufficient protection against
freezing.
Notice
When using concentrated
washer fluid, follow the
manufacturer's instructions
for adding water.
Do not mix water with
ready-to-use washer fluid.
Water can cause the solution
to freeze and damage the
washer fluid tank and other
parts of the washer system.
Also, water does not clean as
well as washer fluid.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the washer
symbol on it. Add washer fluid until
the tank is full. See Engine
Compartment Overview on
page 10‑6 for reservoir location.
Brakes
This vehicle has disc brakes.
Disc brake pads have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched
warning sound when the brake pads
are worn and new pads are needed.
The sound can come and go or be
heard all the time the vehicle is
moving, except when applying the
brake pedal firmly.
{ WARNING
Fill the washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is
very cold. This allows for
fluid expansion if freezing
occurs, which could damage
the tank if it is
completely full.
The brake wear warning sound
means that soon the brakes will
not work well. That could lead to
a crash. When the brake wear
warning sound is heard, have the
vehicle serviced.
Do not use engine coolant
(antifreeze) in the windshield
washer. It can damage the
windshield washer system
and paint.
Notice: Continuing to drive with
worn-out brake pads could result
in costly brake repair.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (23,1)
Vehicle Care
Some driving conditions or climates
can cause a brake squeal when the
brakes are first applied or lightly
applied. This does not mean
something is wrong with the brakes.
Brake Adjustment
Properly torqued wheel nuts are
necessary to help prevent brake
pulsation. When tires are rotated,
inspect brake pads for wear and
evenly tighten wheel nuts in the
proper sequence to torque
specifications in Capacities and
Specifications on page 12‑2.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Brake linings should always be
replaced as complete axle sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal
does not return to normal height,
or if there is a rapid increase in
pedal travel. This could be a sign
that brake service might be
required.
10-23
Brake Fluid
Every time the brakes are applied,
with or without the vehicle moving,
the brakes adjust for wear.
The braking system on a vehicle is
complex. Its many parts have to be
of top quality and work well together
if the vehicle is to have really good
braking. The vehicle was designed
and tested with top-quality brake
parts. When parts of the braking
system are replaced, be sure to get
new, approved replacement parts.
If this is not done, the brakes might
not work properly. For example,
installing disc brake pads that are
wrong for the vehicle, can change
the balance between the front and
rear brakes — for the worse. The
braking performance expected can
change in many other ways if the
wrong replacement brake parts
are installed.
The brake master cylinder reservoir
is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as
indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Engine Compartment Overview on
page 10‑6 for the location of the
reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the
brake fluid level in the reservoir
might go down:
The brake fluid level goes down
because of normal brake lining
wear. When new linings are
installed, the fluid level goes
back up.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-24
Black plate (24,1)
Vehicle Care
A fluid leak in the brake
hydraulic system can also cause
a low fluid level. Have the brake
hydraulic system fixed, since a
leak means that sooner or later
the brakes will not work well.
Do not top off the brake fluid.
Adding fluid does not correct a leak.
If fluid is added when the linings are
worn, there will be too much fluid
when new brake linings are
installed. Add or remove brake fluid,
as necessary, only when work is
done on the brake hydraulic system.
{ WARNING
If too much brake fluid is added, it
can spill on the engine and burn,
if the engine is hot enough. You
or others could be burned, and
the vehicle could be damaged.
Add brake fluid only when work
is done on the brake hydraulic
system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low
level, the brake warning light comes
on. See Brake System Warning
Light on page 5‑19.
Notice
Using the wrong fluid
can badly damage brake
hydraulic system parts. For
example, just a few drops of
mineral-based oil, such as
engine oil, in the brake
hydraulic system can
damage brake hydraulic
system parts so badly that
they will have to be replaced.
Do not let someone put in
the wrong kind of fluid.
If brake fluid is spilled on the
vehicle's painted surfaces,
the paint finish can be
damaged. Be careful not to
spill brake fluid on the
vehicle. If you do, wash it
off immediately.
What to Add
Use only new DOT 3 brake fluid
from a sealed container. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑14.
Always clean the brake fluid
reservoir cap and the area around
the cap before removing it. This
helps keep dirt from entering the
reservoir.
{ WARNING
With the wrong kind of fluid in the
brake hydraulic system, the
brakes might not work well. This
could cause a crash. Always use
the proper brake fluid.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (25,1)
Vehicle Care
Battery
Vehicle Storage
This vehicle has a standard 12‐volt
battery. Refer to the replacement
number on the original battery label
when a new standard 12‐volt battery
is needed.
eAssist vehicles also have a high
voltage battery. Only a trained
service technician with the proper
knowledge and tools should inspect,
test, or replace the high voltage
battery. See your dealer if the high
voltage battery needs service. The
dealer has information on how to
recycle the high voltage battery.
There is also information available
at http://www.recyclemybattery.com.
10-25
{ WARNING
The eAssist system high voltage
battery is cooled with air drawn from
the vehicle interior. The cold air
intake for the battery is located
behind the rear seat, on the filler
panel. Do not cover the intake.
{ WARNING
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds, chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.
Batteries have acid that can burn
you and gas that can explode.
You can be badly hurt if you are
not careful. See Jump Starting
(with or without eAssist) on
page 10‑90 or Jump Starting
(On-board with eAssist Only) on
page 10‑93 for tips on working
around a battery without
getting hurt.
Infrequent Usage: Remove the
12‐volt battery black, negative (−)
cable from the battery to keep the
battery from running down.
Extended Storage: Remove the
12‐volt battery black, negative (−)
cable from the battery or use a
battery trickle charger.
Remember to reconnect the battery
when ready to drive the vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-26
Black plate (26,1)
Vehicle Care
Starter Switch Check
{ WARNING
When you are doing this
inspection, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could
be injured.
1. Before starting this check, be
sure there is enough room
around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking
brake and the regular brake.
See Parking Brake on
page 9‑34.
Do not use the accelerator
pedal, and be ready to turn off
the engine immediately if it
starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each
gear. The vehicle should start
only in P (Park) or N (Neutral).
If the vehicle starts in any other
position, contact your dealer for
service.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake.
See Parking Brake on
page 9‑34.
Automatic Transmission
Shift Lock Control
Function Check
3. With the engine off, turn the
ignition on, but do not start the
engine. Without applying the
regular brake, try to move the
shift lever out of P (Park) with
normal effort. If the shift lever
moves out of P (Park), contact
your dealer for service.
{ WARNING
When you are doing this
inspection, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could be
injured.
1. Before starting this check, be
sure there is enough room
around the vehicle. It should be
parked on a level surface.
Be ready to apply the regular
brake immediately if the vehicle
begins to move.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (27,1)
Vehicle Care
Ignition Transmission
Lock Check
Park Brake and P (Park)
Mechanism Check
While parked, and with the parking
brake set, try to turn the ignition to
LOCK/OFF in each shift lever
position.
{ WARNING
When you are doing this check,
the vehicle could begin to move.
You or others could be injured
and property could be damaged.
Make sure there is room in front
of the vehicle in case it begins to
roll. Be ready to apply the regular
brake at once should the vehicle
begin to move.
The ignition should turn to
LOCK/OFF only when the shift
lever is in P (Park).
With the key access ignition
system, the ignition key should
come out only in LOCK/OFF.
See Ignition Positions (Key
Access) on page 9‑16 or Ignition
Positions (Keyless Access) on
page 9‑18.
Contact your dealer if service
is required.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the
vehicle facing downhill. Keeping
your foot on the regular brake, set
the parking brake.
To check the parking brake's
holding ability: With the engine
running and the 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.
10-27
To check the P (Park)
mechanism's holding ability:
With the engine running, shift to
P (Park). Then release the
parking brake followed by the
regular brake.
Contact your dealer if service is
required.
Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be
inspected for wear and cracking.
See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3 for more information.
Replacement blades come in
different types and are removed in
different ways. For proper type
and length, see Maintenance
Replacement Parts on page 11‑16.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-28
Black plate (28,1)
Vehicle Care
To replace the windshield wiper
blade:
1. Pull the windshield wiper
assembly away from the
windshield.
3. With the latch open, pull the
wiper blade down toward the
windshield far enough to release
it from the J-hooked end of the
wiper arm.
4. Remove the wiper blade.
Allowing the wiper blade arm to
touch the windshield when no
wiper blade is installed could
damage the windshield. Any
damage that occurs would not
be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Do not allow the wiper
blade to touch the windshield.
5. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 for
wiper blade replacement.
2. Lift up on the latch in the middle
of the wiper blade where the
wiper arm attaches.
Headlamp Aiming
The headlamp aiming system has
been preset at the factory.
If the vehicle is damaged in an
accident, the aim of the headlamps
may be affected and adjustment
may be necessary.
It is recommended that a dealer
adjust the headlamps. To re-aim
the headlamps yourself, use the
following procedure.
The vehicle should be properly
prepared as follows:
The vehicle should be placed so
the headlamps are 7.6 m (25 ft)
from a light‐colored wall.
The vehicle must have all four
tires on a level surface which is
level all the way to the wall.
The vehicle should be placed so
it is perpendicular to the wall or
other flat surface.
The vehicle should not have any
snow, ice, or mud on it.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (29,1)
Vehicle Care
The vehicle should be fully
assembled and all other work
stopped while headlamp aiming
is being performed.
The vehicle should be normally
loaded with a full tank of fuel and
one person or 75 kg (160 lbs)
sitting in the driver seat.
Tires should be properly inflated.
10-29
To adjust the vertical aim:
1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10‑5.
Headlamp aiming is done with the
vehicle's low-beam headlamps.
The high-beam headlamps will be
correctly aimed if the low-beam
headlamps are aimed properly.
Uplevel
2. Locate the aim dot on the lens of
the low‐beam headlamp.
Base
3. Measure the distance from the
ground to the aim dot on the
low‐beam headlamp. Record the
distance.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-30
Black plate (30,1)
Vehicle Care
6. Turn on the low-beam
headlamps and place a piece of
cardboard or equivalent in front
of the headlamp not being
adjusted. This allows only the
beam of light from the headlamp
being adjusted to be seen on the
flat surface.
4. At the wall, measure from the
ground upward (A) to the
recorded distance from
Step 3 and mark it.
Uplevel
5. Draw or tape a horizontal line (B)
on the wall the width of the
vehicle at the height of the
mark in Step 4.
7. Locate the vertical headlamp
aiming screws, which are under
the hood near each headlamp
assembly.
Notice: Do not cover a headlamp
to improve beam cut-off when
aiming. Covering a headlamp may
cause excessive heat build-up
which may cause damage to the
headlamp.
8. Turn the vertical aiming screw
until the headlamp beam is
aimed to the horizontal tape line.
Turn it clockwise or
counterclockwise to raise or
lower the angle of the beam.
Base
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (31,1)
Vehicle Care
Bulb Replacement
For the proper type of replacement
bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on
page 10‑35.
For any bulb changing procedure
not listed in this section, contact
your dealer.
9. Make sure that the light from the
headlamp is positioned at the
bottom edge of the horizontal
tape line. The lamp on the
left (A) shows the correct
headlamp aim. The lamp on the
right (B) shows the incorrect
headlamp aim.
10. Repeat Steps 7 through 9 for
the opposite headlamp.
Halogen Bulbs
{ WARNING
Halogen bulbs have pressurized
gas inside and can burst if you
drop or scratch the bulb. You or
others could be injured. Be sure
to read and follow the instructions
on the bulb package.
10-31
High Intensity Discharge
(HID) Lighting
{ WARNING
The low beam high intensity
discharge lighting system
operates at a very high voltage.
If you try to service any of the
system components, you could be
seriously injured. Have your
dealer or a qualified technician
service them.
After an HID headlamp bulb has
been replaced, the beam might be a
slightly different shade than it was
originally. This is normal.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-32
Black plate (32,1)
Vehicle Care
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal and Parking
Lamps
To replace one of these bulbs:
1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10‑5.
3. Remove the bulb socket
from the headlamp by
turning counterclockwise
one‐quarter turn.
4. Remove the bulb from the
socket. If replacing the high/
low‐beam bulb, pry the two clips
on either end of the bulb and pull
straight out.
Base Headlamp Assembly
The base model vehicle has a
halogen high-beam headlamp, a
low-beam/Daytime Running
Lamp (DRL) headlamp, and a
turn signal/parking lamp on the
headlamp assembly.
5. Install the new bulb in the
socket.
6. Install the bulb socket by turning
clockwise one‐quarter turn.
A. Low-Beam Headlamp/DRL
B. High-Beam Headlamp
C. Parking/Turn Signal Lamp
2. If replacing a headlamp bulb,
remove the dust cover from the
back of the headlamp housing
by turning counterclockwise
one‐quarter turn.
7. If a headlamp bulb was
replaced, install the dust cover
in the back of the headlamp
housing by turning clockwise
one‐quarter turn.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (33,1)
Vehicle Care
Uplevel Headlamp Assembly
The uplevel model vehicle has a
high intensity discharge (HID) high/
low beam, a dedicated DRL, and a
parking/turn signal lamp on the
headlamp assembly. See High
Intensity Discharge (HID) Lighting
on page 10‑31 for more information.
To replace one of these bulbs:
1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10‑5.
10-33
2. Turn the bulb socket
counterclockwise to remove it
from the headlamp assembly.
To replace one of these lamps:
3. Pull the bulb straight out from
the socket.
2. Remove the fasteners and pull
back the trunk trim.
4. Push the new bulb into the
socket and reinstall the socket
into the headlamp assembly by
turning it clockwise.
3. Remove the four plastic wing
nuts holding the taillamp
assembly in place.
Taillamps, Turn Signal,
Stoplamps, and Back-Up
Lamps
1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on
page 2‑12.
4. Pull out the taillamp assembly
and disconnect the wiring
harness.
5. Turn the bulb socket
counterclockwise to remove it.
6. Pull the old bulb straight out of
the bulb socket.
7. Reverse Steps 1 through 6 to
install.
A. DRL Lamp
B. Parking/Turn Signal Lamp
A. Back‐Up Lamp
B. Turn Signal Lamp
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-34
Black plate (34,1)
Vehicle Care
License Plate Lamp
5. Push the replacement bulb
straight into the bulb socket and
turn the bulb socket clockwise to
install it into the lamp assembly.
The license plate lamps for this
vehicle are on the trunk lid.
To replace one of these bulbs:
6. Move the lamp assembly into
the trunk lid, engaging the
clip side first.
1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on
page 2‑12 for more information.
7. Push on the lamp side opposite
the clip until the lamp assembly
snaps into place.
A. Bulb Socket
B. Bulb
C. Lamp Assembly
3. Turn the bulb socket (A)
counterclockwise to remove it
from the lamp assembly (C).
2. Push the end on either of the
lamp assemblies (passenger
side shown) and then move the
lamp assembly down to remove
it from the trunk lid.
4. Pull the bulb (B) straight out of
the bulb socket.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (35,1)
Vehicle Care
Replacement Bulbs
Electrical System
Bulb
Number
921LL
High Voltage Devices and
Wiring
Daytime Running
Lamp (Uplevel)
3157K LCP
{ WARNING
Front Turn Signal/
Parking Lamp
3757NAK
LCP
Exterior Lamp
Back-Up Lamp
Headlamp High
Beam (Base)
H9
Headlamp Low
Beam (Base)
H11LL
License Plate Lamp
Rear Turn Signal
W5WLL
3757NAK
LCP
For replacement bulbs not listed
here, contact your dealer.
Exposure to high voltage can
cause shock, burns, and even
death. The high voltage
components in the vehicle can
only be serviced by technicians
with special training.
High voltage components are
identified by labels. Do not
remove, open, take apart,
or modify these components.
High voltage cable or wiring has
orange covering. Do not probe,
tamper with, cut, or modify high
voltage cable or wiring.
10-35
Electrical System
Overload
The vehicle has fuses and circuit
breakers to protect against an
electrical system overload.
When the current electrical load is
too heavy, the circuit breaker opens
and closes, protecting the circuit
until the current load returns to
normal or the problem is fixed. This
greatly reduces the chance of circuit
overload and fire caused by
electrical problems.
Fuses and circuit breakers protect
power devices in the vehicle.
Replace a bad fuse with a new one
of the identical size and rating.
If there is a problem on the road and
a fuse needs to be replaced, the
same amperage fuse can be
borrowed. Choose some feature of
the vehicle that is not needed to use
and replace it as soon as possible.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-36
Black plate (36,1)
Vehicle Care
Headlamp Wiring
An electrical overload may cause
the lamps to go on and off, or in
some cases to remain off. Have the
headlamp wiring checked right away
if the lamps go on and off or
remain off.
Windshield Wipers
If the wiper motor overheats due to
heavy snow or ice, the windshield
wipers will stop until the motor cools
and will then restart.
Although the circuit is protected
from electrical overload, overload
due to heavy snow or ice may
cause wiper linkage damage.
Always clear ice and heavy snow
from the windshield before using the
windshield wipers.
If the overload is caused by an
electrical problem and not snow or
ice, be sure to get it fixed.
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block
The wiring circuits in the vehicle are
protected from short circuits by a
combination of fuses and circuit
breakers. This greatly reduces the
chance of damage caused by
electrical problems.
To check a fuse, look at the
silver-colored band inside the fuse.
If the band is broken or melted,
replace the fuse. Be sure to replace
a bad fuse with a new one of the
identical size and rating.
Fuses of the same amperage can
be temporarily borrowed from
another fuse location, if a fuse goes
out. Replace the fuse as soon as
possible.
To identify and check fuses, circuit
breakers, and relays, see Engine
Compartment Fuse Block on
page 10‑36, Instrument Panel Fuse
Block on page 10‑40, and Rear
Compartment Fuse Block on
page 10‑42.
To remove the fuse block cover,
squeeze the three retaining clips on
the cover and lift it straight up.
Notice: Spilling liquid on any
electrical component on the
vehicle may damage it. Always
keep the covers on any electrical
component.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (37,1)
Vehicle Care
J-Case
Fuses
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
The vehicle may not be equipped
with all of the fuses, relays, and
features shown.
J-Case
Fuses
Usage
10-37
Usage
21
Rear Power
Windows
22
Sunroof
24
Front Power
Windows
25
Passive Entry/
Passive Start
Module — Battery 2
(eAssist)
26
Antilock Brake
System Pump
27
Electric Park Brake
28
Rear Window
Defogger
41
Brake
Vacuum Pump
Wiper
42
Cooling Fan K2
12
Starter
43
Not Used
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-38
Black plate (38,1)
Vehicle Care
J-Case
Fuses
Usage
44
Transmission
Auxiliary Oil Pump
(eAssist)
45
Cooling Fan K1
59
AIR Pump
Mini Fuses
Mini Fuses
Usage
Mini Fuses
Ignition Coils — Odd
(Six Cylinder
Engine)
14
Motor Generator
Unit Coolant Pump
(eAssist)
16
10
Engine Control
Module — Switched
Battery (from Engine
Control Module
Relay)
Run/Crank for
eAssist Power
Inverter Module
17
Airbag Module —
Run/Crank
18
Vented Seats
(eAssist)
23
Variable Effort
Steering (if
equipped) or eAssist
Power Inverter
Module
29
Power Lumbar, Left
30
Power Lumbar,
Right or Power Pack
Cooling Fan
(eAssist)
Usage
Transmission
Control Module —
Battery
Engine Control
Module Battery
Air Conditioning
Compressor Clutch
Engine Control
Module Run/Crank
Ignition Coils —
Even (Six Cylinder
Engine), Ignition
Coils — All (Four
Cylinder Engine
11
13
14
Six Cylinder Engine:
Post Catalytic
Converter Oxygen
Sensor Heater,
Mass Air Flow
Sensor, Flex Fuel
Sensor
Run/Crank for
Transmission
Control Module and
Fuel System Control
Module
Cabin Heater
Coolant Pump
(eAssist)
Usage
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (39,1)
Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses
Usage
31
Passive Entry/
Passive Start
Module — Battery 1
(eAssist)
32
Body Control
Module 6
33
Heated Seat —
Front
34
Antilock Brake
System Valves
35
Amplifier
36
Adaptive Forward
Lighting (AFL)
Motors — Battery
37
Right High Beam
38
46
Mini Fuses
Usage
53
Run/Crank for Inside
Rearview Mirror,
Rear Vision Camera
54
Run/Crank for:
Heating, Ventilation
and Air Conditioning
55
Outside Rearview
Mirror, Universal
Garage Door
Opener, Front
Window Switches
56
Windshield Washer
60
Heated Mirror
62
Canister Vent
Left High Intensity
Discharge
Headlamp
64
Adaptive Forward
Lighting (AFL)
Module — Battery
65
Not Used
51
Horn
66
52
Cluster Run/Crank
AIR Solenoid
(eAssist)
67
Fuel System Control
Module
Mini Fuses
Usage
47
Six Cylinder Engine:
Pre Catalytic
Converter Oxygen
Sensor Heater,
Canister Purge
Solenoid. Four
Cylinder Engine: Pre
and Post Catalytic
Converter Oxygen
Sensor Heaters,
Canister Purge
Solenoid, Mass Air
Flow Sensor.
48
Fog Lamps
49
Right High Intensity
Discharge
Headlamp
Left High Beam
Cooling Fan Relay
10-39
50
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-40
Black plate (40,1)
Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses
Usage
69
Regulated Voltage
Control Sensor
70
Ultrasonic Parking
Assist/Side
Blind Zone
Mini Relays
Usage
Engine Control
Module
Cooling Fan
13
Cooling Fan
15
Run/Crank
16
AIR Pump
17
Rear Window
Defogger
Micro
Relays
Usage
Air Conditioning
Compressor Clutch
Starter
Wiper Speed
Wiper Control
Cabin Heater
Coolant Pump
(eAssist)
10
Cooling Fan
14
Headlamp
Low Beam
Ultra Micro
Relays
11
Usage
Transmission
Auxiliary Oil Pump
(eAssist)
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block
The instrument panel fuse block is
located in the instrument panel, on
the driver side of the vehicle. To
access the fuses, open the fuse
panel door by pulling down at
the top.
Press in on the sides of the door to
release it from the instrument panel.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (41,1)
Vehicle Care
Fuses
Pull the door toward you to release
it from the hinge.
Usage
Steering Wheel
Controls Backlight
Body Control
Module 7
Body Control
Module 5
Radio
OnStar
Power Outlet 1
Power Outlet 2
Body Control
Module 1
Body Control
Module 4
10
Body Control
Module 8
(J‐Case Fuse)
11
Front Heater
Ventilation Air
Conditioning/Blower
(J‐Case Fuse)
Instrument Panel Fuse Block
The vehicle may not be equipped
with all of the fuses, relays, and
features shown.
10-41
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-42
Black plate (42,1)
Vehicle Care
Fuses
Usage
Fuses
Usage
12
Passenger Seat
(Circuit Breaker)
21
Instrument Panel
Cluster
13
Driver Seat (Circuit
Breaker)
22
Discrete Logic
Ignition Switch
14
Diagnostic Link
Connector
23
Body Control
Module 3
15
Airbag
24
16
Trunk
Body Control
Module 2
17
Heater Ventilation
Air Conditioning
Controller
25
Rear Heater
Ventilation Air
Conditioning/Blower
Pre‐Fuse for Fuses
4 and 5
26
AC/DC Inverter
18
19
Infotainment and
Center Stack
Displays, Head‐Up
Display, Preferred
Device Interface
Module, Rear Seat
Infotainment
(eAssist)
20
Automatic Occupant
Sensing
Relays
Usage
R1
Trunk Relay
R2
Not Used
R3
Power Outlet Relay
Rear Compartment Fuse
Block
The rear compartment fuse block is
located on the left side of the trunk
behind a cover. Vehicles with
eAssist do not have a rear
compartment fuse block.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (43,1)
Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses
The vehicle may not be equipped
with all of the fuses, relays, and
features shown.
Mini Fuses
Usage
Mini Fuses
Usage
10-43
Usage
17
Not Used
18
Passive Entry/
Passive Start
Module — Battery 1
(without eAssist)
19
Not Used
20
Run/Crank for Rear
Sunshade (without
eAssist), Ventilated
Seats (without
eAssist)
21
Not Used
22
Not Used
23
Not Used
24
Not Used
Not Used
25
Not Used
Not Used
26
Not Used
Not Used
12
Not Used
27
Not Used
15
Not Used
28
Not Used
Heated Steering
Wheel — Run/Crank
(without eAssist)
16
Not Used
29
Not Used
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-44
Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses
Usage
30
Not Used
31
Electronic
Suspension Control
(without eAssist)
32
Rear Seat
Infotainment (without
eAssist)
33
All‐Wheel Drive
(without eAssist)
J‐Case
Fuses
Black plate (44,1)
Usage
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
Not Used
10
Not Used
11
Not Used
13
Not Used
J‐Case
Fuses
Usage
14
Not Used
34
Not Used
35
Passive Entry/
Passive Start
Module — Battery 2
(without eAssist)
36
Not Used
37
Not Used
Relays
K1
K2
Wheels and Tires
Tires
Every new GM vehicle has
high-quality tires made by a
leading tire manufacturer.
See the warranty manual for
information regarding the tire
warranty and where to get
service. For additional
information refer to the tire
manufacturer.
Usage
{ WARNING
Not Used
Run/Crank Relay for
Seat Ventilation
(without eAssist),
Sunshade (without
eAssist)
K3
Run Relay for
Heated Steering
Wheel (without
eAssist)
K4
Not Used
Poorly maintained and
improperly used tires are
dangerous.
Overloading the tires can
cause overheating as a result
of too much flexing. There
could be a blowout and a
serious crash. See Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10.
(Continued)
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (45,1)
Vehicle Care
WARNING (Continued)
Underinflated tires pose the
same danger as overloaded
tires. The resulting crash
could cause serious injury.
Check all tires frequently to
maintain the recommended
pressure. Tire pressure
should be checked when the
tires are cold.
Overinflated tires are more
likely to be cut, punctured,
or broken by a sudden
impact — such as when
hitting a pothole. Keep tires at
the recommended pressure.
Worn or old tires can cause a
crash. If the tread is badly
worn, replace them.
Replace any tires that have
been damaged by impacts
with potholes, curbs, etc.
(Continued)
WARNING (Continued)
Improperly repaired tires can
cause a crash. Only the
dealer or an authorized tire
service center should repair,
replace, dismount, and mount
the tires.
Do not spin the tires in
excess of 55 km/h (35 mph)
on slippery surfaces such
as snow, mud, ice, etc.
Excessive spinning may
cause the tires to explode.
Winter tires, in general, are
designed for increased traction on
snow and ice covered roads. With
winter tires, there may be decreased
dry road traction, increased road
noise, and shorter tread life. After
changing to winter tires, be alert
for changes in vehicle handling
and braking.
See your dealer for details
regarding winter tire availability and
proper tire selection. Also, see
Buying New Tires on page 10‑60.
If using snow tires:
Use tires of the same brand and
tread type on all four wheel
positions.
Use only radial ply tires of the
same size, load range, and
speed rating as the original
equipment tires.
Winter Tires
Consider installing winter tires on
the vehicle if frequent driving on
snow or ice covered roads is
expected. All season tires provide
good overall performance on most
surfaces, but they may not offer the
traction or the same level of
performance as winter tires on
snow or ice covered roads.
10-45
Winter tires with the same speed
rating as the original equipment tires
may not be available for H, V, W, Y,
and ZR speed rated tires.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-46
Black plate (46,1)
Vehicle Care
If winter tires with a lower speed
rating are chosen, never exceed the
tire's maximum speed capability.
Tire Sidewall Labeling
Useful information about a tire
is molded into its sidewall.
The examples show a typical
passenger vehicle tire and a
compact spare tire sidewall.
Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire Example
(A) Tire Size: The tire size is a
combination of letters and
numbers used to define a
particular tire's width, height,
aspect ratio, construction type,
and service description. See the
“Tire Size” illustration later in this
section for more detail.
(B) TPC Spec (Tire
Performance Criteria
Specification): Original
equipment tires designed to
GM's specific tire performance
criteria have a TPC specification
code molded onto the sidewall.
GM's TPC specifications meet or
exceed all federal safety
guidelines.
(C) DOT (Department of
Transportation): The
Department of Transportation
(DOT) code indicates that the
tire is in compliance with the
U.S. Department of
Transportation Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards.
(D) Tire Identification Number
(TIN): The letters and numbers
following the DOT (Department
of Transportation) code are the
Tire Identification Number (TIN).
The TIN shows the
manufacturer and plant code,
tire size, and date the tire was
manufactured. The TIN is
molded onto both sides of the
tire, although only one side may
have the date of manufacture.
(E) Tire Ply Material : The type
of cord and number of plies in
the sidewall and under the tread.
(F) Uniform Tire Quality
Grading (UTQG): Tire
manufacturers are required to
grade tires based on three
performance factors: treadwear,
traction, and temperature
resistance. For more information
see Uniform Tire Quality
Grading on page 10‑62.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (47,1)
Vehicle Care
(G) Maximum Cold Inflation
Load Limit: Maximum load
that can be carried and the
maximum pressure needed to
support that load.
Compact Spare Tire Example
(A) Tire Ply Material: The type
of cord and number of plies in
the sidewall and under the tread.
(B) Temporary Use Only: The
compact spare tire or temporary
use tire has a tread life of
approximately 5 000 km
(3,000 mi) and should not be
driven at speeds over 105 km/h
(65 mph). The compact spare
tire is for emergency use when a
regular road tire has lost air and
gone flat. If the vehicle has a
compact spare tire, see
Compact Spare Tire on
page 10‑89 and If a Tire Goes
Flat on page 10‑64.
(C) Tire Identification Number
(TIN): The letters and numbers
following the DOT (Department
of Transportation) code are the
Tire Identification Number (TIN).
The TIN shows the
manufacturer and plant code,
tire size, and date the tire was
manufactured. The TIN is
molded onto both sides of the
tire, although only one side may
have the date of manufacture.
10-47
(D) Maximum Cold Inflation
Load Limit: Maximum load
that can be carried and the
maximum pressure needed to
support that load.
(E) Tire Inflation:
The temporary use tire or
compact spare tire should be
inflated to 420 kPa (60 psi).
For more information on tire
pressure and inflation see Tire
Pressure on page 10‑51.
(F) Tire Size: A combination of
letters and numbers define a
tire's width, height, aspect ratio,
construction type, and service
description. The letter T as the
first character in the tire size
means the tire is for temporary
use only.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-48
Black plate (48,1)
Vehicle Care
(G) TPC Spec
(Tire Performance Criteria
Specification): Original
equipment tires designed to
GM's specific tire performance
criteria have a TPC specification
code molded onto the sidewall.
GM's TPC specifications meet or
exceed all federal safety
guidelines.
Tire Designations
Tire Size
The following is an example of a
typical passenger vehicle
tire size.
(A) Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire:
The United States version of a
metric tire sizing system. The
letter P as the first character in
the tire size means a passenger
vehicle tire engineered to
standards set by the U.S. Tire
and Rim Association.
(B) Tire Width: The three‐digit
number indicates the tire section
width in millimeters from
sidewall to sidewall.
(C) Aspect Ratio: A two‐digit
number that indicates the tire
height‐to‐width measurements.
For example, if the tire size
aspect ratio is 60, as shown in
item C of the illustration, it would
mean that the tire's sidewall is
60 percent as high as it is wide.
(D) Construction Code:
A letter code is used to indicate
the type of ply construction in
the tire. The letter R means
radial ply construction; the
letter D means diagonal or
bias ply construction; and the
letter B means belted‐bias
ply construction.
(E) Rim Diameter : Diameter of
the wheel in inches.
(F) Service Description: These
characters represent the load
index and speed rating of the
tire. The load index represents
the load carrying capacity a tire
is certified to carry. The speed
rating is the maximum speed a
tire is certified to carry a load.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (49,1)
Vehicle Care
Tire Terminology and
Definitions
Air Pressure: The amount of
air inside the tire pressing
outward on each square inch of
the tire. Air pressure is
expressed in kPa (kilopascal)
or psi (pounds per square inch).
Accessory Weight: The
combined weight of optional
accessories. Some examples of
optional accessories are
automatic transmission, power
steering, power brakes, power
windows, power seats, and air
conditioning.
Aspect Ratio: The relationship
of a tire's height to its width.
Belt: A rubber coated layer of
cords that is located between
the plies and the tread. Cords
may be made from steel or other
reinforcing materials.
Bead: The tire bead contains
steel wires wrapped by steel
cords that hold the tire onto
the rim.
Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire
in which the plies are laid at
alternate angles less than
90 degrees to the centerline of
the tread.
Cold Tire Pressure: The
amount of air pressure in a tire,
measured in kPa (kilopascal)
or psi (pounds per square inch)
before a tire has built up heat
from driving. See Tire Pressure
on page 10‑51.
Curb Weight: The weight of a
motor vehicle with standard and
optional equipment including the
maximum capacity of fuel, oil,
and coolant, but without
passengers and cargo.
10-49
DOT Markings: A code molded
into the sidewall of a tire
signifying that the tire is in
compliance with the U.S.
Department of Transportation
(DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety
Standards. The DOT code
includes the Tire Identification
Number (TIN), an alphanumeric
designator which can also
identify the tire manufacturer,
production plant, brand, and
date of production.
GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating. See Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9‑10.
GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight
Rating for the front axle. See
Vehicle Load Limits on
page 9‑10.
GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight
Rating for the rear axle. See
Vehicle Load Limits on
page 9‑10.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-50
Black plate (50,1)
Vehicle Care
Intended Outboard Sidewall :
The side of an asymmetrical tire,
that must always face outward
when mounted on a vehicle.
Kilopascal (kPa): The metric
unit for air pressure.
Light Truck (LT‐Metric) Tire:
A tire used on light duty trucks
and some multipurpose
passenger vehicles.
Load Index: An assigned
number ranging from 1 to 279
that corresponds to the load
carrying capacity of a tire.
Maximum Inflation Pressure:
The maximum air pressure to
which a cold tire can be inflated.
The maximum air pressure is
molded onto the sidewall.
Maximum Load Rating:
The load rating for a tire at the
maximum permissible inflation
pressure for that tire.
Maximum Loaded Vehicle
Weight: The sum of curb
weight, accessory weight,
vehicle capacity weight, and
production options weight.
Normal Occupant Weight: The
number of occupants a vehicle
is designed to seat multiplied by
68 kg (150 lbs). See Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10.
Occupant Distribution :
Designated seating positions.
Outward Facing Sidewall: The
side of an asymmetrical tire that
has a particular side that faces
outward when mounted on a
vehicle. The side of the tire that
contains a whitewall, bears
white lettering, or bears
manufacturer, brand, and/or
model name molding that is
higher or deeper than the same
moldings on the other sidewall
of the tire.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire:
A tire used on passenger cars
and some light duty trucks and
multipurpose vehicles.
Recommended Inflation
Pressure: Vehicle
manufacturer's recommended
tire inflation pressure as shown
on the tire placard. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑51
andVehicle Load Limits on
page 9‑10.
Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic
tire in which the ply cords that
extend to the beads are laid at
90 degrees to the centerline of
the tread.
Rim: A metal support for a tire
and upon which the tire beads
are seated.
Sidewall: The portion of a tire
between the tread and the bead.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (51,1)
Vehicle Care
Speed Rating:
An alphanumeric code assigned
to a tire indicating the maximum
speed at which a tire can
operate.
Traction: The friction between
the tire and the road surface.
The amount of grip provided.
Tread: The portion of a tire that
comes into contact with
the road.
Treadwear Indicators:
Narrow bands, sometimes called
wear bars, that show across the
tread of a tire when only 1.6 mm
(1/16 in) of tread remains. See
When It Is Time for New Tires
on page 10‑59.
UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality
Grading Standards): A tire
information system that provides
consumers with ratings for a
tire's traction, temperature,
and treadwear.
Ratings are determined
by tire manufacturers using
government testing procedures.
The ratings are molded into the
sidewall of the tire. See Uniform
Tire Quality Grading on
page 10‑62.
Vehicle Capacity Weight:
The number of designated
seating positions multiplied by
68 kg (150 lbs) plus the rated
cargo load. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the
Tire: Load on an individual tire
due to curb weight, accessory
weight, occupant weight, and
cargo weight.
Vehicle Placard: A label
permanently attached to a
vehicle showing the vehicle
capacity weight and the original
equipment tire size and
recommended inflation pressure.
10-51
See “Tire and Loading
Information Label” under Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10.
Tire Pressure
Tires need the correct amount of
air pressure to operate
effectively.
Notice: Neither tire
underinflation nor
overinflation is good.
Underinflated tires, or tires
that do not have enough air,
can result in:
Tire overloading and
overheating which could
lead to a blowout.
Premature or
irregular wear.
Poor handling.
Reduced fuel economy.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-52
Black plate (52,1)
Vehicle Care
Unusual wear.
vehicle handling and ride
comfort. Never load the vehicle
with more weight than it was
designed to carry.
Poor handling.
When to Check
Rough ride.
Needless damage from
road hazards.
Check the tires once a month or
more. Do not forget the compact
spare tire, if the vehicle has one.
The compact spare should be at
420 kPa (60 psi). For additional
information regarding the
compact spare tire, see
Compact Spare Tire on
page 10‑89.
Overinflated tires, or tires that
have too much air, can
result in:
The Tire and Loading
Information label on the vehicle
indicates the original equipment
tires and the correct cold tire
inflation pressures. The
recommended pressure is the
minimum air pressure needed to
support the vehicle's maximum
load carrying capacity.
For additional information
regarding how much weight the
vehicle can carry, and an
example of the Tire and Loading
Information label, see Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10. How
the vehicle is loaded affects
How to Check
Use a good quality pocket-type
gauge to check tire pressure.
Proper tire inflation cannot be
determined by looking at the tire.
Check the tire inflation pressure
when the tires are cold, meaning
the vehicle has not been driven
for at least three hours or no
more than 1.6 km (1 mi).
Remove the valve cap from the
tire valve stem. Press the tire
gauge firmly onto the valve to
get a pressure measurement.
If the cold tire inflation pressure
matches the recommended
pressure on the Tire and
Loading Information label, no
further adjustment is necessary.
If the inflation pressure is low,
add air until the recommended
pressure is reached. If the
inflation pressure is high, press
on the metal stem in the center
of the tire valve to release air.
Re‐check the tire pressure with
the tire gauge.
Return the valve caps on the
valve stems to prevent leaks
and keep out dirt and moisture.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (53,1)
Vehicle Care
Tire Pressure Monitor
System
pressure telltale when one or more
of your tires is significantly under‐
inflated.
The Tire Pressure Monitor System
(TPMS) uses radio and sensor
technology to check tire pressure
levels. The TPMS sensors monitor
the air pressure in your tires and
transmit tire pressure readings to a
receiver located in the vehicle.
Accordingly, when the low tire
pressure telltale illuminates, you
should stop and check your tires as
soon as possible, and inflate them
to the proper pressure. Driving on a
significantly under‐inflated tire
causes the tire to overheat and can
lead to tire failure. Under‐inflation
also reduces fuel efficiency and tire
tread life, and may affect the
vehicle's handling and stopping
ability.
Each tire, including the spare (if
provided), should be checked
monthly when cold and inflated to
the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the
vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label. (If your vehicle has
tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or
tire inflation pressure label, you
should determine the proper tire
inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your
vehicle has been equipped with a
tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS) that illuminates a low tire
Please note that the TPMS is not a
substitute for proper tire
maintenance, and it is the driver's
responsibility to maintain correct tire
pressure, even if under‐inflation has
not reached the level to trigger
illumination of the TPMS low tire
pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been
equipped with a TPMS malfunction
indicator to indicate when the
system is not operating properly.
10-53
The TPMS malfunction indicator is
combined with the low tire pressure
telltale. When the system detects a
malfunction, the telltale will flash for
approximately one minute and then
remain continuously illuminated.
This sequence will continue upon
subsequent vehicle start‐ups as
long as the malfunction exists.
When the malfunction indicator is
illuminated, the system may not be
able to detect or signal low tire
pressure as intended. TPMS
malfunctions may occur for a variety
of reasons, including the installation
of replacement or alternate tires or
wheels on the vehicle that prevent
the TPMS from functioning properly.
Always check the TPMS malfunction
telltale after replacing one or more
tires or wheels on your vehicle to
ensure that the replacement or
alternate tires and wheels allow the
TPMS to continue to function
properly.
See Tire Pressure Monitor
Operation on page 10‑54 for
additional information.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-54
Black plate (54,1)
Vehicle Care
Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules and
with Industry Canada
Standards
See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑20 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
Rules and with Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.
Tire Pressure Monitor
Operation
This vehicle may have a Tire
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
The TPMS is designed to warn the
driver when a low tire pressure
condition exists. TPMS sensors are
mounted onto each tire and wheel
assembly, excluding the spare tire
and wheel assembly. The TPMS
sensors monitor the air pressure in
the tires and transmits the tire
pressure readings to a receiver
located in the vehicle.
details about the DIC operation and
displays see Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑25.
When a low tire pressure condition
is detected, the TPMS illuminates
the low tire pressure warning light
located on the instrument cluster.
If the warning light comes on, stop
as soon as possible and inflate the
tires to the recommended pressure
shown on the tire loading
information label. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10.
A message to check the pressure in
a specific tire displays in the Driver
Information Center (DIC). The low
tire pressure warning light and the
DIC warning message come on at
each ignition cycle until the tires are
inflated to the correct inflation
pressure. Using the DIC, tire
pressure levels can be viewed.
For additional information and
The low tire pressure warning light
may come on in cool weather when
the vehicle is first started, and then
turn off as the vehicle is driven. This
could be an early indicator that the
air pressure is getting low and
needs to be inflated to the proper
pressure.
A Tire and Loading Information
label, attached to your vehicle,
shows the size of the original
equipment tires and the correct
inflation pressure for the tires when
they are cold. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10, for an example
of the Tire and Loading Information
label and its location. Also see Tire
Pressure on page 10‑51.
The TPMS can warn about a low
tire pressure condition but it does
not replace normal tire
maintenance.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (55,1)
Vehicle Care
See Tire Inspection on page 10‑57,
Tire Rotation on page 10‑58 and
Tires on page 10‑44.
Notice: Tire sealant materials are
not all the same. A non-approved
tire sealant could damage the
TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor
damage caused by using an
incorrect tire sealant is not
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always use only the
GM-approved tire sealant
available through your dealer or
included in the vehicle.
Factory-installed Tire Inflator Kits
use a GM approved liquid tire
sealant. Using non-approved tire
sealants could damage the TPMS
sensors. See Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit (With Pressure
Relief Button) on page 10‑67 or Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit (With
Pressure Deflation Button) on
page 10‑74 for information
regarding the inflator kit materials
and instructions.
TPMS Malfunction Light and
Message
The TPMS will not function properly
if one or more of the TPMS sensors
are missing or inoperable. When the
system detects a malfunction, the
low tire warning light flashes for
about one minute and then stays on
for the remainder of the ignition
cycle. A DIC warning message also
displays. The malfunction light and
DIC warning message come on at
each ignition cycle until the problem
is corrected. Some of the conditions
that can cause these to come
on are:
One of the road tires has been
replaced with the spare tire.
The spare tire does not have a
TPMS sensor. The malfunction
light and DIC message should
go off after the road tire is
replaced and the sensor
matching process is performed
successfully. See “TPMS Sensor
Matching Process” later in this
section.
10-55
The TPMS sensor matching
process was not done or not
completed successfully
after rotating the tires. The
malfunction light and the DIC
message should go off after
successfully completing the
sensor matching process.
See "TPMS Sensor Matching
Process" later in this section.
One or more TPMS sensors
are missing or damaged. The
malfunction light and the DIC
message should go off when the
TPMS sensors are installed and
the sensor matching process is
performed successfully. See
your dealer for service.
Replacement tires or wheels do
not match the original equipment
tires or wheels. Tires and wheels
other than those recommended
could prevent the TPMS from
functioning properly. See Buying
New Tires on page 10‑60.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-56
Black plate (56,1)
Vehicle Care
Operating electronic devices or
being near facilities using radio
wave frequencies similar to the
TPMS could cause the TPMS
sensors to malfunction.
If the TPMS is not functioning
properly it cannot detect or signal a
low tire condition. See your dealer
for service if the TPMS malfunction
light and DIC message comes on
and stays on.
TPMS Sensor Matching
Process
Each TPMS sensor has a unique
identification code. The identification
code needs to be matched to a new
tire/wheel position after rotating the
vehicle’s tires or replacing one or
more of the TPMS sensors. The
TPMS sensor matching process
should also be performed after
replacing a spare tire with a road
tire containing the TPMS sensor.
The malfunction light and the DIC
message should go off at the next
ignition cycle. The sensors are
matched to the tire/wheel positions,
using a TPMS relearn tool, in the
following order: driver side front tire,
passenger side front tire, passenger
side rear tire, and driver side rear.
See your dealer for service or to
purchase a relearn tool.
There are two minutes to match
the first tire/wheel position, and
five minutes overall to match all
four tire/wheel positions. If it takes
longer, the matching process stops
and must be restarted.
The TPMS sensor matching
process is:
1. Set the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with
the engine off.
3. Use the MENU button to select
the Vehicle Information Menu in
the Driver Information
Center (DIC).
4. Use the thumbwheel to scroll to
the Tire Pressure Menu Item
screen.
5. Press the SET/CLR button to
begin the sensor matching
process.
A message asking if the process
should begin should appear.
6. Press the SET/CLR button again
to confirm the selection.
The horn sounds twice to signal
the receiver is in relearn mode
and the TIRE LEARNING
ACTIVE message displays on
the DIC screen.
7. Start with the driver side
front tire.
8. Place the relearn tool against
the tire sidewall, near the valve
stem. Then press the button to
activate the TPMS sensor.
A horn chirp confirms that the
sensor identification code has
been matched to this tire and
wheel position.
9. Proceed to the passenger side
front tire, and repeat the
procedure in Step 8.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (57,1)
Vehicle Care
10. Proceed to the passenger side
rear tire, and repeat the
procedure in Step 8.
11. Proceed to the driver side rear
tire, and repeat the procedure
in Step 8. The horn sounds two
times to indicate the sensor
identification code has been
matched to the driver side rear
tire, and the TPMS sensor
matching process is no longer
active. The TIRE LEARNING
ACTIVE message on the DIC
display screen goes off.
12. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
13. Set all four tires to the
recommended air pressure
level as indicated on the Tire
and Loading Information label.
Tire Inspection
We recommend that the tires,
including the spare tire, if the
vehicle has one, be inspected
for signs of wear or damage at
least once a month.
Replace the tire if:
The indicators at three or
more places around the tire
can be seen.
There is cord or fabric
showing through the tire's
rubber.
10-57
The tread or sidewall is
cracked, cut, or snagged
deep enough to show cord or
fabric.
The tire has a bump, bulge,
or split.
The tire has a puncture, cut,
or other damage that cannot
be repaired well because of
the size or location of the
damage.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-58
Black plate (58,1)
Vehicle Care
Tire Rotation
Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor
System. See Tire Pressure
Monitor Operation on
page 10‑54.
Tires should be rotated every
12 000 km (7,500 mi). See
Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3.
Check that all wheel nuts are
properly tightened. See “Wheel
Nut Torque” under Capacities
and Specifications on
page 12‑2.
Tires are rotated to achieve a
uniform wear for all tires.
The first rotation is the most
important.
Any time unusual wear is
noticed, rotate the tires as soon
as possible and check the wheel
alignment. Also check for
damaged tires or wheels.
See When It Is Time for New
Tires on page 10‑59 and Wheel
Replacement on page 10‑63.
Use this rotation pattern when
rotating the tires.
Do not include the compact
spare tire in the tire rotation.
Adjust the front and rear tires to
the recommended inflation
pressure on the Tire and
Loading Information label after
the tires have been rotated.
See Tire Pressure on
page 10‑51 and Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10.
{ WARNING
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the
parts to which it is fastened, can
make wheel nuts become loose
after time. The wheel could come
off and cause an accident. When
changing a wheel, remove any
rust or dirt from places where the
wheel attaches to the vehicle. In
an emergency, a cloth or a paper
towel can be used; however, use
a scraper or wire brush later to
remove all rust or dirt.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (59,1)
Vehicle Care
Lightly coat the center of the
wheel hub with wheel bearing
grease after a wheel change or
tire rotation to prevent corrosion
or rust build-up. Do not get
grease on the flat wheel
mounting surface or on the
wheel nuts or bolts.
Tires will typically need to be
replaced due to wear before
they may need to be replaced
due to age. Consult the tire
manufacturer for more information
on when tires should be replaced.
Vehicle Storage
When It Is Time for
New Tires
Factors such as maintenance,
temperatures, driving speeds,
vehicle loading, and road
conditions affect the wear rate
of the tires.
10-59
Treadwear indicators are one way to
tell when it is time for new tires.
Treadwear indicators appear when
the tires have only 1.6 mm (1/16 in)
or less of tread remaining. See Tire
Inspection on page 10‑57 and Tire
Rotation on page 10‑58 for more
information.
The rubber in tires ages over time.
This also applies for the spare tire,
if the vehicle has one, even if it is
never used. Multiple conditions
including temperatures, loading
conditions, and inflation pressure
maintenance affect how fast aging
takes place.
Tires age when stored normally
mounted on a parked vehicle. Park
a vehicle that will be stored for at
least a month in a cool, dry, clean
area away from direct sunlight to
slow aging. This area should be
free of grease, gasoline, or other
substances that can deteriorate
rubber.
Parking for an extended period can
cause flat spots on the tires that
may result in vibrations while
driving. When storing a vehicle for
at least a month, remove the tires or
raise the vehicle to reduce the
weight from the tires.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-60
Black plate (60,1)
Vehicle Care
Buying New Tires
GM has developed and matched
specific tires for the vehicle. The
original equipment tires installed
were designed to meet General
Motors Tire Performance Criteria
Specification (TPC Spec)
system rating. When
replacement tires are needed,
GM strongly recommends
buying tires with the same
TPC Spec rating.
GM's exclusive TPC Spec
system considers over a dozen
critical specifications that impact
the overall performance of the
vehicle, including brake system
performance, ride and handling,
traction control, and tire
pressure monitoring
performance. GM's TPC Spec
number is molded onto the tire's
sidewall near the tire size. If the
tires have an all‐season tread
design, the TPC Spec number
will be followed by MS for mud
and snow. See Tire Sidewall
Labeling on page 10‑46 for
additional information.
GM recommends replacing all
the tires at the same time.
Uniform tread depth on all
tires will help to maintain the
performance of the vehicle.
Braking and handling
performance may be adversely
affected if all the tires are not
replaced at the same time. See
Tire Inspection on page 10‑57
and Tire Rotation on page 10‑58
for information on proper tire
rotation.
{ WARNING
Tires could explode during
improper service. Attempting to
mount or dismount a tire could
cause injury or death. Only your
(Continued)
WARNING (Continued)
dealer or authorized tire service
center should mount or dismount
the tires.
{ WARNING
Mixing tires of different sizes,
brands, or types may cause
loss of control of the vehicle,
resulting in a crash or other
vehicle damage. Use the
correct size, brand, and type
of tires on all wheels.
{ WARNING
Using bias-ply tires on the
vehicle may cause the wheel
rim flanges to develop cracks
after many miles of driving.
(Continued)
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (61,1)
Vehicle Care
WARNING (Continued)
A tire and/or wheel could fail
suddenly and cause a crash.
Use only radial-ply tires with
the wheels on the vehicle.
If the vehicle tires must be
replaced with a tire that does not
have a TPC Spec number, make
sure they are the same size,
load range, speed rating, and
construction (radial) as the
original tires.
Vehicles that have a tire
pressure monitoring system
could give an inaccurate low‐
pressure warning if non‐TPC
Spec rated tires are installed.
See Tire Pressure Monitor
System on page 10‑53.
The Tire and Loading
Information label indicates the
original equipment tires on the
vehicle. See Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9‑10 for the label
location and more information
about the Tire and Loading
Information label.
Different Size Tires and
Wheels
If wheels or tires are installed that
are a different size than the original
equipment wheels and tires, vehicle
performance, including its braking,
ride and handling characteristics,
stability, and resistance to rollover
may be affected. If the vehicle has
electronic systems such as antilock
brakes, rollover airbags, traction
control, and electronic stability
control, the performance of these
systems can also be affected.
10-61
{ WARNING
If different sized wheels are used,
there may not be an acceptable
level of performance and safety if
tires not recommended for those
wheels are selected. This
increases the chance of a crash
and serious injury. Only use GM
specific wheel and tire systems
developed for the vehicle, and
have them properly installed by a
GM certified technician.
See Buying New Tires on
page 10‑60 and Accessories and
Modifications on page 10‑3 for
additional information.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-62
Black plate (62,1)
Vehicle Care
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading
Quality grades can be found
where applicable on the tire
sidewall between tread shoulder
and maximum section width.
For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
The following information relates
to the system developed by the
United States National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA), which grades tires
by treadwear, traction, and
temperature performance. This
applies only to vehicles sold in
the United States. The grades
are molded on the sidewalls of
most passenger car tires. The
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
(UTQG) system does not apply
to deep tread, winter-type
snow tires, space-saver, or
temporary use spare tires,
tires with nominal rim diameters
of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm),
or to some limited-production
tires.
While the tires available on
General Motors passenger cars
and light trucks may vary with
respect to these grades, they
must also conform to federal
safety requirements and
additional General Motors Tire
Performance Criteria (TPC)
standards.
All Passenger Car Tires Must
Conform to Federal Safety
Requirements In Addition To
These Grades.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a
comparative rating based on the
wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a
specified government test
course. For example, a tire
graded 150 would wear one and
a half (1½) 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 – AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from
highest to lowest, are AA, A, B,
and C. Those grades represent
the tire's ability to stop on wet
pavement as measured under
controlled conditions on
specified government test
surfaces of asphalt and
concrete. A tire marked C may
have poor traction performance.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (63,1)
Vehicle Care
Warning: The traction grade
assigned to this tire is based on
straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include
acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction
characteristics.
Temperature – A, B, C
The temperature grades are A
(the highest), B, and C,
representing the tire's resistance
to the generation of heat and its
ability to dissipate heat when
tested under controlled
conditions on a specified indoor
laboratory test wheel. Sustained
high temperature can cause the
material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead
to sudden tire failure. The grade
C corresponds to a level of
performance which all
passenger car tires must meet
under the Federal Motor Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and
A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory
test wheel than the minimum
required by law. Warning: The
temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive
loading, either separately or in
combination, can cause heat
buildup and possible tire failure.
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance
The tires and wheels were aligned
and balanced at the factory to
provide the longest tire life and best
overall performance. Adjustments to
wheel alignment and tire balancing
will not be necessary on a regular
basis. However, check the
alignment if there is unusual tire
wear or if the vehicle is pulling to
one side or the other.
10-63
If the vehicle vibrates when driving
on a smooth road, the tires and
wheels might need to be
rebalanced. See your dealer for
proper diagnosis.
Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent,
cracked, or badly rusted or
corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming
loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and
wheel nuts should be replaced.
If the wheel leaks air, replace it.
Some aluminum wheels can be
repaired. See your dealer if any of
these conditions exist.
Your dealer will know the kind of
wheel that is needed.
Each new wheel should have the
same load-carrying capacity,
diameter, width, offset, and be
mounted the same way as the
one it replaces.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-64
Black plate (64,1)
Vehicle Care
Replace wheels, wheel bolts, wheel
nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor
System (TPMS) sensors with new
GM original equipment parts.
{ WARNING
Using the wrong replacement
wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel
nuts can be dangerous. It could
affect the braking and handling of
the vehicle. Tires can lose air,
and cause loss of control, causing
a crash. Always use the correct
wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel
nuts for replacement.
Notice: The wrong wheel can
also cause problems with bearing
life, brake cooling, speedometer
or odometer calibration,
headlamp aim, bumper height,
vehicle ground clearance, and tire
or tire chain clearance to the
body and chassis.
See If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑64 for more information.
Used Replacement Wheels
{ WARNING
Replacing a wheel with a used
one is dangerous. How it has
been used or how far it has been
driven may be unknown. It could
fail suddenly and cause a crash.
When replacing wheels, use a
new GM original equipment
wheel.
Tire Chains
{ WARNING
Do not use tire chains. There is
not enough clearance. Tire chains
used on a vehicle without the
proper amount of clearance can
cause damage to the brakes,
suspension, or other vehicle
(Continued)
WARNING (Continued)
parts. The area damaged by the
tire chains could cause loss of
control and a crash.
Use another type of traction
device only if its manufacturer
recommends it for the vehicle's
tire size combination and road
conditions. Follow that
manufacturer's instructions.
To avoid vehicle damage, drive
slow and readjust or remove the
traction device if it contacts the
vehicle. Do not spin the wheels.
If traction devices are used, install
them on the front tires.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow out,
especially if the tires are maintained
properly. See Tires on page 10‑44.
If air goes out of a tire, it is much
more likely to leak out slowly.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (65,1)
Vehicle Care
But if there is ever a blowout, here
are a few tips about what to expect
and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tire
creates a drag that pulls the vehicle
toward that side. Take your foot off
the accelerator pedal and grip the
steering wheel firmly. Steer to
maintain lane position, and then
gently brake to a stop, well off the
road, if possible.
A rear blowout, particularly on a
curve, acts much like a skid and
may require the same correction as
used in a skid. Stop pressing the
accelerator pedal and steer to
straighten the vehicle. It may be
very bumpy and noisy. Gently brake
to a stop, well off the road,
if possible.
10-65
{ WARNING
{ WARNING
Driving on a flat tire will cause
permanent damage to the tire.
Re-inflating a tire after it has
been driven on while severely
underinflated or flat may cause a
blowout and a serious crash.
Never attempt to re-inflate a tire
that has been driven on while
severely underinflated or flat.
Have your dealer or an authorized
tire service center repair or
replace the flat tire as soon
as possible.
Lifting a vehicle and getting
under it to do maintenance or
repairs is dangerous without the
appropriate safety equipment and
training. If a jack is provided with
the vehicle, it is designed only for
changing a flat tire. If it is used for
anything else, you or others could
be badly injured or killed if the
vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack
is provided with the vehicle, only
use it for changing a flat tire.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place, well off the road,
if possible. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-66
Black plate (66,1)
Vehicle Care
{ WARNING
Changing a tire can be
dangerous. The vehicle can slip
off the jack and roll over or fall
causing injury or death. Find a
level place to change the tire.
To help prevent the vehicle
from moving:
WARNING (Continued)
4. Do not allow passengers to
remain in the vehicle.
When the vehicle has a flat tire (B),
use the following example as a
guide to assist you in the placement
of wheel blocks (A).
5. Place wheel blocks on both
sides of the tire at the
opposite corner of the tire
being changed.
1. Set the parking brake firmly.
2. Put an automatic
transmission in P (Park) or
a manual transmission in
1 (First) or R (Reverse).
3. Turn off the engine and do
not restart while the vehicle
is raised.
(Continued)
This vehicle may come with a jack
and spare tire or a tire sealant and
compressor kit. To use the jacking
equipment to change a spare tire
safely, follow the instructions below.
Then see Tire Changing on
page 10‑83. To use the tire sealant
and compressor kit, see Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit (With
Pressure Relief Button) on
page 10‑67 or Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit (With Pressure
Deflation Button) on page 10‑74.
A. Wheel Block
B. Flat Tire
The following information explains
how to repair or change a tire.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (67,1)
Vehicle Care
Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit (With
Pressure Relief Button)
WARNING (Continued)
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide (CO) which cannot be
seen or smelled. It can cause
unconsciousness and even death.
Never run the engine in an
enclosed area that has no fresh
air ventilation. For more
information, see Engine Exhaust
on page 9‑28.
System Identification
If the vehicle has the tire sealant
and compressor kit shown above,
follow the operating instructions
under "Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit (With Pressure
Deflation Button).
If the vehicle has the tire sealant
and compressor kit shown above,
see the operating instructions
that follow.
10-67
{ WARNING
Idling a vehicle in an enclosed
area with poor ventilation is
dangerous. Engine exhaust may
enter the vehicle.
(Continued)
{ WARNING
Overinflating a tire could cause
the tire to rupture and you or
others could be injured. Be sure
to read and follow the tire sealant
and compressor kit instructions
and inflate the tire to its
recommended pressure.
Do not exceed the recommended
pressure.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-68
Black plate (68,1)
Vehicle Care
{ WARNING
Storing the tire sealant and
compressor kit or other
equipment in the passenger
compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden stop or
collision, loose equipment could
strike someone. Store the tire
sealant and compressor kit in its
original location.
too severely damaged for the tire
sealant and compressor kit to be
effective. See Roadside Assistance
Program (U.S. and Canada) on
page 13‑7 or Roadside Assistance
Program (Mexico) on page 13‑9.
Read and follow all of the tire
sealant and compressor kit
instructions.
The kit includes:
If the tire has been separated from
the wheel, has damaged sidewalls,
or has a large puncture, the tire is
E. Air Only Hose (Black)
F.
Sealant/Air Hose (Clear)
G. Power Plug
Tire Sealant
Read and follow the safe handling
instructions on the label adhered to
the compressor.
Check the tire sealant expiration
date on the sealant canister.
The sealant canister should be
replaced before its expiration date.
Replacement sealant canisters are
available at your local dealer. See
“Removal and Installation of the
Sealant Canister” following.
If this vehicle has a tire sealant and
compressor kit, there may not be
a spare tire and tire changing
equipment, and on some vehicles
there may not be a place to store
a tire.
The tire sealant and compressor
can be used to temporarily seal
punctures up to 6 mm (¼ in) in the
tread area of the tire. It can also be
used to inflate an underinflated tire.
D. Pressure Gauge
A. On/Off Button
B. Selector Switch (Sealant/Air or
Air Only)
C. Pressure Relief Button
There is only enough sealant to seal
one tire. After usage, the sealant
canister and sealant/air hose
assembly must be replaced. See
“Removal and Installation of the
Sealant Canister” following.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (69,1)
Vehicle Care
Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit to Temporarily
Seal and Inflate a
Punctured Tire
Follow the directions closely for
correct sealant usage.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.
See If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑64 for other important
safety warnings.
Do not remove any objects that
have penetrated the tire.
1. Remove the tire sealant and
compressor kit from its storage
location. See Storing the Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit on
page 10‑82.
2. Unwrap the sealant/air hose (F)
and the power plug (G).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
When using the tire sealant and
compressor kit during cold
temperatures, warm the kit in a
heated environment for five minutes.
This will help to inflate the tire
faster.
Make sure the tire valve stem is
positioned close to the ground
so the hose will reach it.
10-69
4. Remove the valve stem cap from
the flat tire by turning it
counterclockwise.
5. Attach the sealant/air hose (F)
onto the tire valve stem. Turn it
clockwise until it is tight.
6. Plug the power plug (G) into the
accessory power outlet in the
vehicle. Unplug all items from
other accessory power outlets.
See Power Outlets on page 5‑6.
If the vehicle has an accessory
power outlet, do not use the
cigarette lighter.
If the vehicle only has a cigarette
lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug
cord in the door or window.
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle
must be running while using the
air compressor.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-70
Black plate (70,1)
Vehicle Care
8. Turn the selector switch (B)
clockwise to the Sealant + Air
position.
9. Press the on/off button (A) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit on.
The compressor will inject
sealant and air into the tire.
The pressure gauge (D) will
initially show a high pressure
while the compressor pushes the
sealant into the tire. Once the
sealant is completely dispersed
into the tire, the pressure will
quickly drop and start to rise
again as the tire inflates with
air only.
10. Inflate the tire to the
recommended inflation
pressure using the pressure
gauge (D). The recommended
inflation pressure can be found
on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑51.
The pressure gauge (D) may
read higher than the actual tire
pressure while the compressor
is on. Turn the compressor off
to get an accurate pressure
reading. The compressor may
be turned on/off until the
correct pressure is reached.
Notice: If the recommended
pressure cannot be reached after
approximately 25 minutes, the
vehicle should not be driven
farther. The tire is too severely
damaged and the tire sealant and
compressor kit cannot inflate the
tire. Remove the power plug from
the accessory power outlet and
unscrew the inflating hose from
the tire valve. See Roadside
Assistance Program (U.S. and
Canada) on page 13‑7 or
Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑9.
11. Press the on/off button (A) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit off.
The tire is not sealed and will
continue to leak air until the
vehicle is driven and the
sealant is distributed in the tire;
therefore, Steps 12 through
18 must be done immediately
after Step 11.
Be careful while handling the
tire sealant and compressor kit
as it could be warm after
usage.
12. Unplug the power plug (G) from
the accessory power outlet in
the vehicle.
13. Turn the sealant/air hose (F)
counterclockwise to remove it
from the tire valve stem.
14. Replace the tire valve
stem cap.
15. Return the sealant/air hose (F)
and the power plug (G) back in
their original locations.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (71,1)
Vehicle Care
16. If the flat tire was able to inflate
to the recommended inflation
pressure, remove the
maximum speed label from the
sealant canister and place it in
a highly visible location. Do not
exceed the speed on this label
until the damaged tire is
repaired or replaced.
17. Return the equipment to its
original storage location in
the vehicle.
18. Immediately drive the vehicle
8 km (5 mi) to distribute the
sealant in the tire.
19. Stop at a safe location and
check the tire pressure.
Refer to Steps 1 through 11
under “Using the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit without
Sealant to Inflate a Tire
(Not Punctured).”
If the tire pressure has fallen
more than 68 kPa (10 psi)
below the recommended
inflation pressure, stop driving
the vehicle. The tire is too
severely damaged and the tire
sealant cannot seal the tire.
See Roadside Assistance
Program (U.S. and Canada) on
page 13‑7 or Roadside
Assistance Program (Mexico)
on page 13‑9.
If the tire pressure has not
dropped more than 68 kPa
(10 psi) from the recommended
inflation pressure, use the
compressor kit to inflate the tire
to the recommended inflation
pressure.
10-71
20. Wipe off any sealant from the
wheel, tire, and vehicle.
21. Dispose of the used sealant
canister and sealant/air
hose (F) assembly at a local
dealer or in accordance with
local state codes and practices.
22. Replace it with a new canister
available from your dealer.
23. After temporarily sealing a
tire using the tire sealant and
compressor kit, take the
vehicle to an authorized dealer
within 161 km (100 mi) of
driving to have the tire repaired
or replaced.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-72
Black plate (72,1)
Vehicle Care
Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit without
Sealant to Inflate a Tire
(Not Punctured)
To use the air compressor to inflate
a tire with air only and not sealant:
See If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑64 for other important
safety warnings.
4. Remove the tire valve stem cap
from the flat tire by turning it
counterclockwise.
1. Remove the tire sealant and
compressor kit from its storage
location. See Storing the Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit on
page 10‑82.
5. Attach the air only hose (E) onto
the tire valve stem by turning it
clockwise until it is tight.
2. Unwrap the air only hose (E)
and the power plug (G).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
Make sure the tire valve stem is
positioned close to the ground
so the hose will reach it.
6. Plug the power plug (G) into the
accessory power outlet in the
vehicle. Unplug all items from
other accessory power outlets.
See Power Outlets on page 5‑6.
If the vehicle has an accessory
power outlet, do not use the
cigarette lighter.
If the vehicle only has a cigarette
lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug
cord in the door or window.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (73,1)
Vehicle Care
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle
must be running while using the
air compressor.
8. Turn the selector switch (B)
counterclockwise to the Air Only
position.
9. Press the on/off button (A) to
turn the compressor on.
The compressor will inflate the
tire with air only.
10. Inflate the tire to the
recommended inflation
pressure using the pressure
gauge (D). The recommended
inflation pressure can be found
on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑51.
The pressure gauge (D) may
read higher than the actual
tire pressure while the
compressor is on. Turn the
compressor off to get an
accurate reading.
The compressor may be turned
on/off until the correct pressure
is reached. If the tire is inflated
higher than the recommended
pressure, press the pressure
relief button (C), if equipped,
until the proper pressure
reading is reached. This option
is only functional when using
the air only hose (E).
11. Press the on/off button (A) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit off.
Be careful while handling the
tire sealant and compressor kit
as it could be warm after
usage.
12. Unplug the power plug (G) from
the accessory power outlet in
the vehicle.
10-73
13. Disconnect the air only
hose (E) from the tire
valve stem, by turning it
counterclockwise, and replace
the tire valve stem cap.
14. Return the air only hose (E)
and the power plug (G) back to
their original locations.
15. Return the equipment to its
original storage location in
the vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-74
Black plate (74,1)
Vehicle Care
Removal and Installation of the
Sealant Canister
6. Screw the connector (B) to the
canister (A).
To remove the sealant canister:
7. Slide the plastic cover back on.
Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit (With
Pressure Deflation
Button)
System Identification
If the vehicle has the tire sealant
and compressor kit shown above,
follow the operating instructions
under "Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit (With Pressure
Relief Button).
1. Remove the plastic cover.
2. Unscrew the connector (B) from
the canister (A).
3. Pull up on the canister (A) to
remove it.
4. Replace with a new canister
which is available from your
dealer.
5. Push the new canister into
place.
If the vehicle has the tire sealant
and compressor kit shown above,
see the operating instructions
that follow.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (75,1)
Vehicle Care
{ WARNING
Idling a vehicle in an enclosed
area with poor ventilation is
dangerous. Engine exhaust may
enter the vehicle. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide (CO)
which cannot be seen or smelled.
It can cause unconsciousness
and even death. Never run the
engine in an enclosed area that
has no fresh air ventilation. For
more information, see Engine
Exhaust on page 9‑28.
{ WARNING
Overinflating a tire could cause
the tire to rupture and you or
others could be injured. Be sure
to read and follow the tire sealant
and compressor kit instructions
and inflate the tire to its
(Continued)
WARNING (Continued)
recommended pressure. Do not
exceed the recommended
pressure.
{ WARNING
Storing the tire sealant and
compressor kit or other
equipment in the passenger
compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden stop or
collision, loose equipment could
strike someone. Store the tire
sealant and compressor kit in its
original location.
If this vehicle has a tire sealant and
compressor kit, there may not be a
spare tire and tire changing
equipment, and on some vehicles
there may not be a place to store
a tire.
10-75
The tire sealant and compressor
can be used to temporarily seal
punctures up to 6 mm (¼ in) in the
tread area of the tire. It can also be
used to inflate an underinflated tire.
If the tire has been separated from
the wheel, has damaged sidewalls,
or has a large puncture, the tire is
too severely damaged for the tire
sealant and compressor kit to be
effective. See Roadside Assistance
Program (U.S. and Canada) on
page 13‑7 or Roadside Assistance
Program (Mexico) on page 13‑9.
Read and follow all of the tire
sealant and compressor kit
instructions.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-76
Black plate (76,1)
Vehicle Care
The kit includes:
A. Selector Switch (Sealant/Air or
Air Only)
B. On/Off Button
C. Pressure Gauge
D. Pressure Deflation Button
(If equipped)
E. Tire Sealant Canister
F.
Sealant/Air Hose (Clear)
G. Air Only Hose (Black)
H. Power Plug
Tire Sealant
Read and follow the safe handling
instructions on the label adhered to
the sealant canister.
Check the tire sealant expiration
date on the sealant canister.
The sealant canister should be
replaced before its expiration date.
Replacement sealant canisters are
available at your local dealer. See
“Removal and Installation of the
Sealant Canister” following.
There is only enough sealant to seal
one tire. After usage, the sealant
canister and sealant/air hose
assembly must be replaced. See
“Removal and Installation of the
Sealant Canister” following.
Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit to Temporarily
Seal and Inflate a
Punctured Tire
Follow the directions closely for
correct sealant usage.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (77,1)
Vehicle Care
heated environment for five minutes.
This will help to inflate the tire
faster.
4. Remove the valve stem cap
from the flat tire by turning it
counterclockwise.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.
5. Attach the sealant/air hose (F)
onto the tire valve stem. Turn it
clockwise until it is tight.
See If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑64 for other important
safety warnings.
Do not remove any objects that
have penetrated the tire.
1. Remove the tire sealant and
compressor kit from its storage
location. See Storing the Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit on
page 10‑82.
2. Unwrap the sealant/air hose (F)
and the power plug (H).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
When using the tire sealant and
compressor kit during cold
temperatures, warm the kit in a
10-77
Make sure the tire valve stem is
positioned close to the ground
so the hose will reach it.
6. Plug the power plug (H) into the
accessory power outlet in the
vehicle. Unplug all items from
other accessory power outlets.
See Power Outlets on page 5‑6.
If the vehicle has an accessory
power outlet, do not use the
cigarette lighter.
If the vehicle only has a cigarette
lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug
cord in the door or window.
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle
must be running while using
the air compressor.
8. Turn the selector switch (A)
counterclockwise to the
Sealant + Air position.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-78
Black plate (78,1)
Vehicle Care
9. Press the on/off button (B) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit on.
The compressor will inject
sealant and air into the tire.
The pressure gauge (C) will
initially show a high pressure
while the compressor pushes the
sealant into the tire. Once the
sealant is completely dispersed
into the tire, the pressure will
quickly drop and start to rise
again as the tire inflates with
air only.
10. Inflate the tire to the
recommended inflation
pressure using the pressure
gauge (C). The recommended
inflation pressure can be found
on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑51.
The pressure gauge (C) may
read higher than the actual
tire pressure while the
compressor is on.
Turn the compressor off to get
an accurate pressure reading.
The compressor may be turned
on/off until the correct pressure
is reached.
Notice: If the recommended
pressure cannot be reached after
approximately 25 minutes, the
vehicle should not be driven
farther. The tire is too severely
damaged and the tire sealant and
compressor kit cannot inflate the
tire. Remove the power plug from
the accessory power outlet and
unscrew the inflating hose from
the tire valve. See Roadside
Assistance Program (U.S. and
Canada) on page 13‑7 or
Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑9.
11. Press the on/off button (B) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit off.
The tire is not sealed and will
continue to leak air until the
vehicle is driven and the
sealant is distributed in the tire;
therefore, Steps 12 through
18 must be done immediately
after Step 11.
Be careful while handling the
tire sealant and compressor kit
as it could be warm after
usage.
12. Unplug the power plug (H) from
the accessory power outlet in
the vehicle.
13. Turn the sealant/air hose (F)
counterclockwise to remove it
from the tire valve stem.
14. Replace the tire valve
stem cap.
15. Replace the sealant/air
hose (F), and the power
plug (H) back in their
original location.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (79,1)
Vehicle Care
16. If the flat tire was able to inflate
to the recommended inflation
pressure, remove the
maximum speed label from the
sealant canister (E) and place
it in a highly visible location.
Do not exceed the speed on
this label until the damaged tire
is repaired or replaced.
17. Return the equipment to its
original storage location in
the vehicle.
18. Immediately drive the vehicle
8 km (5 mi) to distribute the
sealant in the tire.
19. Stop at a safe location and
check the tire pressure.
Refer to Steps 1 through 11
under “Using the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit without
Sealant to Inflate a Tire
(Not Punctured).”
If the tire pressure has fallen
more than 68 kPa (10 psi)
below the recommended
inflation pressure, stop driving
the vehicle. The tire is too
severely damaged and the tire
sealant cannot seal the tire.
See Roadside Assistance
Program (U.S. and Canada) on
page 13‑7 or Roadside
Assistance Program (Mexico)
on page 13‑9.
If the tire pressure has not
dropped more than 68 kPa
(10 psi) from the recommended
inflation pressure, inflate the
tire to the recommended
inflation pressure.
10-79
20. Wipe off any sealant from the
wheel, tire, and vehicle.
21. Dispose of the used sealant
canister (E) and sealant/air
hose (F) assembly at a local
dealer or in accordance with
local state codes and practices.
22. Replace it with a new canister
available from your dealer.
23. After temporarily sealing a tire
using the tire sealant and
compressor kit, take the
vehicle to an authorized dealer
within a 161 km (100 mi) of
driving to have the tire repaired
or replaced.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-80
Black plate (80,1)
Vehicle Care
Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit without
Sealant to Inflate a Tire
(Not Punctured)
To use the air compressor to inflate
a tire with air only and not sealant:
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.
See If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑64 for other important
safety warnings.
1. Remove the tire sealant and
compressor kit from its storage
location. See Storing the Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit on
page 10‑82.
2. Unwrap the air only hose (G)
and the power plug (H).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
Make sure the tire valve stem is
positioned close to the ground
so the hose will reach it.
4. Remove the tire valve stem cap
from the flat tire by turning it
counterclockwise.
5. Attach the air only hose (G) onto
the tire valve stem by turning it
clockwise until it is tight.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (81,1)
Vehicle Care
6. Plug the power plug (H) into the
accessory power outlet in the
vehicle. Unplug all items from
other accessory power outlets.
See Power Outlets on page 5‑6.
If the vehicle has an accessory
power outlet, do not use the
cigarette lighter.
If the vehicle only has a cigarette
lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug
cord in the door or window.
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle
must be running while using the
air compressor.
8. Turn the selector switch (A)
clockwise to the Air Only
position.
9. Press the on/off button (B) to
turn the compressor on.
The compressor will inflate the
tire with air only.
10. Inflate the tire to the
recommended inflation
pressure using the pressure
gauge (C). The recommended
inflation pressure can be found
on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑51.
The pressure gauge (C) may
read higher than the actual tire
pressure while the compressor
is on. Turn the compressor off
to get an accurate reading. The
compressor may be turned on/
off until the correct pressure is
reached.
If you inflate the tire higher
than the recommended
pressure you can adjust the
excess pressure by pressing
the pressure deflation
button (D), if equipped, until
the proper pressure reading is
reached. This option is only
functional when using the air
only hose (G).
10-81
11. Press the on/off button (B) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit off.
Be careful while handling the
tire sealant and compressor kit
as it could be warm after
usage.
12. Unplug the power plug (H) from
the accessory power outlet in
the vehicle.
13. Disconnect the air only hose
(G) from the tire valve stem by
turning it counterclockwise, and
replace the tire valve stem cap.
14. Replace the air only hose (G)
and the power plug (H) and
cord back in their original
locations.
15. Place the equipment in the
original storage location in
the vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-82
Black plate (82,1)
Vehicle Care
Removal and Installation of the
Sealant Canister
To remove the sealant canister:
1. Unwrap the sealant hose.
2. Press the canister release
button.
3. Pull up and remove the canister.
4. Replace with a new canister
which is available from your
dealer.
The tire sealant and compressor kit
has an accessory adapter located in
a compartment on the bottom of its
housing that may be used to inflate
air mattresses, balls, etc.
5. Push the new canister into
place.
With Pressure Relief Button
Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit
To access the tire sealant and
compressor kit:
1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on
page 2‑12.
2. Lift the cover.
With Pressure Deflation Button
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (83,1)
Vehicle Care
10-83
3. Turn the wing nut
counterclockwise to remove it.
4. Remove the tire sealant and
compressor kit.
To store the tire sealant and
compressor kit, reverse the steps.
Tire Changing
Removing the Spare Tire and
Tools
The equipment you need is located
in the trunk.
1. Open the trunk.
2. Remove the spare tire cover.
3. Turn the retainer nut
counterclockwise and remove
the spare tire.
4. Place the spare tire next to the
tire being changed.
A. Screwdriver
B. Tow Hook (If Equipped)
C. Jack
D. Wrench (In Bag)
E. Trim Removal (If Equipped)
F.
Fastener (If Equipped)
The jack and tools are stored below
the spare tire.
Place the tools next to the tire being
changed.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-84
Black plate (84,1)
Vehicle Care
Removing the Flat Tire and
Installing the Spare Tire
1. Do a safety check before
proceeding. See If a Tire Goes
Flat on page 10‑64 for more
information.
2. Turn the wheel wrench
counterclockwise to loosen the
wheel nut caps.
If needed, finish loosening them
by hand. The nut caps will not
come off of the wheel cover.
The edge of the wheel cover
could be sharp, so do not try to
remove the cover with your bare
hands. Do not drop the cap or
lay it face down, as it could
become scratched or damaged.
Store the wheel cover in the
trunk until you have the flat tire
repaired or replaced.
3. Turn the wheel wrench
counterclockwise to loosen all of
the wheel nuts, but do not
remove them yet.
Notice: Make sure that the jack
lift head is in the correct position
or you may damage your vehicle.
The repairs would not be covered
by your warranty.
4. Position the jack head, as
shown.
Set the jack to the necessary
height before positioning it below
the jacking point.
5. Attach the jack lift assist tool to
the jack by fitting both ends of
the jack and tool over one
another.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (85,1)
Vehicle Care
{ WARNING
{ WARNING
Getting under a vehicle when it is
jacked up is dangerous. If the
vehicle slips off the jack, you
could be badly injured or killed.
Never get under a vehicle when it
is supported only by a jack.
Lifting a vehicle and getting under
it to do maintenance or repairs is
dangerous without the
appropriate safety equipment and
training. If a jack is provided with
the vehicle, it is designed only for
changing a flat tire. If it is used for
anything else, you or others could
be badly injured or killed if the
vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack
is provided with the vehicle, only
use it for changing a flat tire.
{ WARNING
Raising the vehicle with the jack
improperly positioned can
damage the vehicle and even
make the vehicle fall. To help
avoid personal injury and vehicle
damage, be sure to fit the jack lift
head into the proper location
before raising the vehicle.
10-85
6. Turn the jack handle clockwise
to raise the vehicle far enough
off the ground for the compact
spare to fit under the vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-86
Black plate (86,1)
Vehicle Care
WARNING (Continued)
In an emergency, a cloth or a
paper towel can be used;
however, use a scraper or
wire brush later to remove all
rust or dirt.
Never use oil or grease on bolts
or nuts because the nuts might
come loose. The vehicle's wheel
could fall off, causing a crash.
11. Put the wheel nuts back on
with the rounded end of the
nuts toward the wheel. Turn
each nut clockwise by hand
until the wheel is held against
the hub.
7. Remove all of the wheel nuts.
8. Remove the flat tire.
12. Lower the vehicle by
turning the jack handle
counterclockwise.
Lower the jack completely.
{ WARNING
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the
parts to which it is fastened, can
make wheel nuts become loose
after time. The wheel could come
off and cause an accident. When
changing a wheel, remove any
rust or dirt from places where the
wheel attaches to the vehicle.
(Continued)
{ WARNING
{ WARNING
9. Remove any rust or dirt from the
wheel bolts, mounting surfaces,
and spare wheel.
10. Install the compact spare tire.
Wheel nuts that are improperly or
incorrectly tightened can cause
the wheels to become loose or
come off. The wheel nuts should
be tightened with a torque wrench
(Continued)
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (87,1)
Vehicle Care
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire
and Tools
WARNING (Continued)
to the proper torque specification
after replacing. Follow the torque
specification supplied by the
aftermarket manufacturer when
using accessory locking wheel
nuts. See Capacities and
Specifications on page 12‑2 for
original equipment wheel nut
torque specifications.
Notice: Improperly tightened
wheel nuts can lead to brake
pulsation and rotor damage. To
avoid expensive brake repairs,
evenly tighten the wheel nuts in
the proper sequence and to the
proper torque specification. See
Capacities and Specifications on
page 12‑2 for the wheel nut
torque specification.
10-87
{ WARNING
Storing a jack, a tire, or other
equipment in the passenger
compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden stop or
collision, loose equipment could
strike someone. Store all these in
the proper place.
13. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in
a crisscross sequence, as
shown.
14. Lower the jack all the way and
remove the jack from under the
vehicle.
15. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly
with the wheel wrench.
Notice: Wheel covers will not fit
on the vehicle's compact spare.
If you try to put a wheel cover on
the compact spare, the cover or
the spare could be damaged.
Store the spare or flat tire in one of
the ways shown below. Storage
instructions will vary depending on
the bolt that came with the vehicle
and how it attaches to the vehicle.
This vehicle will have a slide in
fastener or a screw in fastener.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-88
Black plate (88,1)
Vehicle Care
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and
Tools With a Screw in Fastener
5. Turn the retainer nut clockwise
to secure the tire.
3. Replace the jack and tools in
their original storage location.
6. Place the floor cover on
the wheel.
4. Place the tire, lying flat, facing
up in the spare tire well.
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and
Tools With a Slide In Fastener
5. Turn the retainer nut clockwise
to secure the tire.
1. If the flat tire is larger than the
spare tire, use the longer
mounting bolt.
6. Place the floor cover on the
wheel.
1. Turn the wrench
counterclockwise to remove
the fastener.
2. Replace the fastener with the
one provided in the foam.
3. Turn the wrench clockwise to
tighten the fastener.
4. Replace the foam, jack and
tools, and the tire.
2. Slide the shorter bolt to remove
it from the floor and insert the
longer one.
The compact spare is for temporary
use only. Replace the compact
spare tire with a full-size tire as
soon as you can.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (89,1)
Vehicle Care
Compact Spare Tire
{ WARNING
Driving with more than one
compact spare tire at a time could
result in loss of braking and
handling. This could lead to a
crash and you or others could be
injured. Use only one compact
spare tire at a time.
If this vehicle has a compact spare
tire, it was fully inflated when the
vehicle was new; however, it can
lose air after a time. Check the
inflation pressure regularly.
It should be 420 kPa (60 psi).
After installing the compact spare
on the vehicle, stop as soon as
possible and make sure the spare
tire is correctly inflated. The
compact spare is made to perform
well at speeds up to 105 km/h
(65 mph) for distances up to
5 000 km (3,000 mi), so you can
finish your trip and have the full-size
tire repaired or replaced at your
convenience. Of course, it is best to
replace the spare with a full-size tire
as soon as possible. The spare tire
will last longer and be in good
shape in case it is needed again.
Notice: When the compact spare
is installed, do not take the
vehicle through an automatic car
wash with guide rails. The
compact spare can get caught on
the rails which can damage the
tire, wheel, and other parts of
the vehicle.
Do not use the compact spare on
other vehicles.
10-89
Do not mix the compact spare tire or
wheel with other wheels or tires.
They will not fit. Keep the spare tire
and its wheel together.
Notice: Tire chains will not fit the
compact spare. Using them can
damage the vehicle and can
damage the chains too.
Do not use tire chains on the
compact spare.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-90
Black plate (90,1)
Vehicle Care
Jump Starting
Jump Starting
(with or without eAssist)
For more information about the
vehicle battery, see Battery on
page 10‑25.
If the battery has run down, try to
use another vehicle and some
jumper cables to start your vehicle.
Be sure to use the following steps to
do it safely.
{ WARNING
Batteries can hurt you.
They can be dangerous because:
They contain acid that can
burn you.
They contain gas that can
explode or ignite.
They contain enough
electricity to burn you.
If you do not follow these steps
exactly, some or all of these
things can hurt you.
Notice: Ignoring these steps
could result in costly damage to
the vehicle that would not be
covered by the warranty.
Trying to start the vehicle by
pushing or pulling it will not
work, and it could damage
the vehicle.
The jump start positive is located
under a trim cover in the engine
compartment on the driver side of
the vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (91,1)
Vehicle Care
3. Set the parking brake firmly and
put the shift lever in P (Park).
See Shifting Into Park on
page 9‑25.
This post (A) is used instead of a
direct connection to the battery.
1. Check the other vehicle. It must
have a 12-volt battery with a
negative ground system.
Notice: Only use a vehicle that
has a 12-volt system with a
negative ground for jump
starting. If the other vehicle does
not have a 12-volt system with a
negative ground, both vehicles
can be damaged.
2. Position the two vehicles so that
they are not touching.
Notice: If any accessories are
left on or plugged in during the
jump starting procedure, they
could be damaged. The repairs
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Whenever
possible, turn off or unplug all
accessories on either vehicle
when jump starting the vehicle.
4. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF
and switch off all lights and
accessories in both vehicles,
except the hazard warning
flashers if needed.
{ WARNING
An electric fan can start up even
when the engine is not running
and can injure you. Keep hands,
clothing and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.
10-91
{ WARNING
Using a match near a battery can
cause battery gas to explode.
People have been hurt doing this,
and some have been blinded.
Use a flashlight if you need
more light.
Be sure the battery has enough
water. You do not need to add
water to the battery installed in
your new vehicle. But if a battery
has filler caps, be sure the right
amount of fluid is there. If it is low,
add water to take care of that
first. If you don't, explosive gas
could be present.
Battery fluid contains acid that
can burn you. Do not get it on
you. If you accidentally get it in
your eyes or on your skin, flush
the place with water and get
medical help immediately.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-92
Black plate (92,1)
Vehicle Care
{ WARNING
Fans or other moving engine
parts can injure you badly. Keep
your hands away from moving
parts once the engine is running.
6. Do not let the other end of the
red positive (+) cable touch
metal. Connect it to the
positive (+) terminal of the
good battery (B). Use a remote
positive (+) terminal if the vehicle
has one.
7. Connect one end of the black
negative (–) cable to the
negative (–) terminal of the
good battery (C). Use a remote
negative (−) terminal if the
vehicle has one.
5. Connect one end of the red
positive (+) cable to the jump
start positive (+) post (A). Use a
remote positive (+) terminal if the
vehicle has one.
Do not let the other end touch
anything until the next step. The
other end of the negative (–)
cable does not go to the dead
battery. It goes to a heavy,
unpainted metal engine part or
to a remote negative (–) terminal
on the vehicle with the dead
battery.
8. Connect the other end of the
black negative (–) cable to an
unpainted heavy metal engine
part (D) away from the dead
battery, but not near engine
parts that move.
9. Start the engine in the vehicle
with the good battery and run
the engine at idle speed for at
least four minutes.
10. Try to start the vehicle that had
the dead battery. If it will not
start after a few tries, it
probably needs service.
Notice: If the jumper cables are
connected or removed in the
wrong order, electrical shorting
may occur and damage the
vehicle. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always connect and remove the
jumper cables in the correct
order, making sure that the
cables do not touch each other
or other metal.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (93,1)
Vehicle Care
To disconnect the jumper cables
from both vehicles:
1. Disconnect the black
negative (−) cable from the
vehicle that had the dead
battery.
2. Disconnect the black
negative (−) cable from the
vehicle with the good battery.
Jumper Cable Removal
A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine
Part or Remote Negative (–)
Terminal
B. Good Battery or Remote
Positive (+) and Remote
Negative (–) Terminals
C. Dead Battery or Remote
Positive (+) Terminal
3. Disconnect the red positive (+)
cable from the vehicle with the
good battery.
4. Disconnect the red positive (+)
cable from the other vehicle.
5. Return the caps over the
positive (+) and negative (–)
terminals to their original
positions.
10-93
Jump Starting (On-board
with eAssist Only)
If the vehicle fails to crank and there
is no other vehicle available for a
jump start, it may also be jump
started by using the eAssist battery
to charge the 12-volt battery. Use
the following procedure to activate
the on‐board jump start using the
DIC controls.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-94
Vehicle Care
DIC Buttons
A. SET/CLR
B.
Black plate (94,1)
w x (Thumbwheel)
C. MENU
With the ignition key in the run
position, proceed as follows:
1. Press MENU (C) on the turn
signal lever until Vehicle
Information Menu is displayed.
Use w x (Thumbwheel) (B) to
scroll through the menu items
until Jump Start is displayed.
2. Press SET/CLR (A) to activate
the jump start.
3. The system will then ask for
confirmation. If yes is selected,
the jump start will begin and the
display will show JUMP START
ACTIVE, WAIT TO START.
4. When the jump start is complete,
the display will show JUMP
START COMPLETE.
ATTEMPT START.
Towing
If the vehicle is started, the on‐
board jump start function will be
automatically disabled. If the vehicle
cranks but does not start, the
procedure may be repeated again.
If the vehicle start is still
unsuccessful, the jump start can be
attempted using the previous jump
starting procedure under “Jump
Starting (with or without eAssist).”
On‐board jump starting may be
unavailable due to the 12-volt
battery charge level, the eAssist
battery charge level, power
capability, or an issue with the
eAssist system. In these cases, the
display will not be available because
of the power issue, or the DIC will
display JUMP START DISABLED.
SEE OWNERS MANUAL.
Notice: To avoid damage, the
disabled vehicle should be
towed with all four wheels off the
ground. Care must be taken with
vehicles that have low ground
clearance and/or special
equipment. Always flatbed
on a car carrier.
Towing the Vehicle
Consult your dealer or a
professional towing service if the
disabled vehicle must be towed.
See Roadside Assistance Program
(U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑7 or
Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑9.
To tow the vehicle behind another
vehicle for recreational purposes,
such as behind a motor home, see
“Recreational Vehicle Towing” in
this section.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (95,1)
Vehicle Care
Recreational Vehicle
Towing
Recreational vehicle towing means
towing the vehicle behind another
vehicle such as a motor home.
The two most common types of
recreational vehicle towing are
known as dinghy towing and dolly
towing. Dinghy towing is towing the
vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground. Dolly towing is towing the
vehicle with two wheels on the
ground and two wheels up on a
device known as a dolly.
Here are some important things
to consider before recreational
vehicle towing:
What is the towing capacity of
the towing vehicle? Be sure to
read the tow vehicle
manufacturer's
recommendations.
What is the distance that will be
traveled? Some vehicles have
restrictions on how far and how
long they can tow.
Is the proper towing equipment
going to be used? See your
dealer or trailering professional
for additional advice and
equipment recommendations.
Is the vehicle ready to be
towed? Just as preparing the
vehicle for a long trip, make sure
the vehicle is prepared to be
towed.
Dinghy Towing from the Front
When dinghy towing, the vehicle
should be run at the beginning of
each day and at each RV fuel stop
for about five minutes. This will
ensure proper lubrication of
transmission components.
10-95
Use the following procedure to
dinghy tow the vehicle from the front
with all four wheels on the ground:
1. Position the vehicle being towed
behind the tow vehicle and shift
the transmission to P (Park).
2. Turn the engine off and firmly set
the parking brake.
3. Following the manufacturer's
instructions, securely attach the
vehicle being towed to the
tow vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-96
Black plate (96,1)
Vehicle Care
4. Turn the ignition to ACC/
ACCESSORY and shift the
transmission to N (Neutral). See
Ignition Positions (Key Access)
on page 9‑16 or Ignition
Positions (Keyless Access) on
page 9‑18.
Dinghy Towing from the Rear
Dolly Towing from the Front
(Front-Wheel Drive)
5. Release the parking brake only
after the vehicle being towed is
firmly attached to the towing
vehicle.
When towing the vehicle for
extended periods of time, start the
vehicle as often as possible to
prevent battery drain. This should
be done when the tow vehicle is
parked.
The vehicle was not designed to be
towed from the rear with all four
wheels on the ground.
Vehicles with front-wheel drive can
be dolly towed from the front.
Use the following procedure to
dolly tow the vehicle from the front:
1. Attach the dolly to the tow
vehicle following the dolly
manufacturer's instructions.
2. Drive the front wheels onto
the dolly.
3. Shift the transmission to
P (Park).
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (97,1)
Vehicle Care
4. Firmly set the parking brake.
5. Use an adequate clamping
device designed for towing to
ensure that the front wheels are
locked into the straight-ahead
position.
Dolly Towing from the Front
(All-Wheel Drive)
10-97
Dolly Towing from the Rear
6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly
following the manufacturer's
instructions.
7. Release the parking brake only
after the vehicle being towed is
firmly attached to the towing
vehicle.
8. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
Vehicles with all-wheel drive cannot
be dolly towed.
The vehicle cannot be dolly towed
from the rear.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-98
Black plate (98,1)
Vehicle Care
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish,
wash it often and out of direct
sunlight.
Notice: Do not use petroleum
based, acidic, or abrasive
cleaning agents as they can
damage the vehicle's paint, metal,
or plastic parts. If damage
occurs, it would not be covered
by the vehicle's warranty.
Approved cleaning products can
be obtained from your dealer.
Follow all manufacturer
directions regarding correct
product usage, necessary safety
precautions, and appropriate
disposal of any vehicle care
product.
Notice: Avoid using high
pressure washes closer than
30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the
vehicle. Use of power washers
exceeding 8,274 kPa (1,200 psi)
can result in damage or removal
of paint and decals.
Rinse the vehicle well, before
washing and after, to remove all
cleaning agents completely. If they
are allowed to dry on the surface,
they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water
spotting.
Finish Care
Occasional hand waxing or mild
polishing should be done to remove
residue from the paint finish. See
your dealer for approved cleaning
products.
Notice: Machine compounding
or aggressive polishing on a
basecoat/clearcoat paint finish
may damage it. Use only
non-abrasive waxes and polishes
that are made for a basecoat/
clearcoat paint finish on the
vehicle.
Foreign materials such as calcium
chloride and other salts, ice melting
agents, road oil and tar, tree sap,
bird droppings, chemicals from
industrial chimneys, etc., can
damage the vehicle's finish if they
remain on painted surfaces. Wash
the vehicle as soon as possible.
If necessary, use non-abrasive
cleaners that are marked safe
for painted surfaces to remove
foreign matter.
To keep the paint finish looking new,
keep the vehicle garaged or
covered whenever possible.
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal
Parts
Regularly clean bright metal parts
with water or chrome polish on
chrome or stainless steel trim,
if necessary.
For aluminum, never use auto or
chrome polish, steam, or caustic
soap to clean. A coating of
wax, rubbed to a high polish,
is recommended for all bright
metal parts.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (99,1)
Vehicle Care
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/
Lenses and Emblems
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a
soft cloth, and a car washing soap
to clean exterior lamps and lenses.
Follow instructions under "Washing
the Vehicle" later in this section.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield
with glass cleaner.
Clean rubber blades using a lint-free
cloth or paper towel soaked with
windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield
thoroughly when cleaning the
blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and
a buildup of vehicle wash/wax
treatments may cause wiper
streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are
worn or damaged. Damage can be
caused by extreme dusty
conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun,
snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply silicone grease on
weatherstrips to make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak. See Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 11‑14
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to
clean the tires.
Notice: Using petroleum-based
tire dressing products on the
vehicle may damage the paint
finish and/or tires. When applying
a tire dressing, always wipe off
any overspray from all painted
surfaces on the vehicle.
10-99
Wheels and Trim — Aluminum
or Chrome
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild
soap and water to clean the wheels.
After rinsing thoroughly with clean
water, dry with a soft, clean towel.
A wax may then be applied.
Keep the wheels clean using a soft,
clean cloth with mild soap and
water. Rinse with clean water. After
rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft,
clean towel. A wax may then
be applied.
Notice: Chrome wheels and other
chrome trim may be damaged if
the vehicle is not washed after
driving on roads that have been
sprayed with magnesium,
calcium, or sodium chloride.
These chlorides are used on
roads for conditions such as
ice and dust. Always wash the
chrome with soap and water after
exposure.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-100
Black plate (100,1)
Vehicle Care
Notice: To avoid surface damage,
do not use strong soaps,
chemicals, abrasive polishes,
cleaners, brushes, or cleaners
that contain acid on aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels. Use only
approved cleaners. Also, never
drive a vehicle with aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels through an
automatic car wash that uses
silicone carbide tire cleaning
brushes. Damage could occur
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Steering, Suspension, and
Chassis Components
Visually inspect front and rear
suspension and steering system for
damaged, loose, or missing parts or
signs of wear. Inspect power
steering lines and hoses for proper
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Visually check constant
velocity joints, rubber boots, and
axle seals for leaks.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders,
hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the
steel fuel door hinge unless the
components are plastic. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips
with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick
or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
Use plain water to flush dirt and
debris from the vehicle's underbody.
Your dealer or an underbody car
washing system can do this. If not
removed, rust and corrosion can
develop.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and
requires sheet metal repair or
replacement, make sure the body
repair shop applies anti-corrosion
material to parts repaired or
replaced to restore corrosion
protection.
Original manufacturer replacement
parts will provide the corrosion
protection while maintaining the
vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and
scratches with touch-up materials
available from your dealer to avoid
corrosion. Larger areas of finish
damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon
and attack painted vehicle surfaces
causing blotchy, ring-shaped
discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the
paint surface.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (101,1)
Vehicle Care
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions,
regularly clean the vehicle's interior.
Immediately remove any soils. Note
that newspapers or dark garments
that can transfer color to home
furnishings can also permanently
transfer color to the vehicle's
interior.
Use a soft bristle brush to remove
dust from knobs and crevices on the
instrument cluster. Using a mild
soap solution, immediately remove
hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect
repellant from all interior surfaces or
permanent damage may result.
Your dealer may have products for
cleaning the interior. Use cleaners
specifically designed for the
surfaces being cleaned to prevent
permanent damage. To prevent
overspray, apply all cleaners directly
to the cleaning cloth. Cleaners
should be removed quickly. Never
allow cleaners to remain on the
surface being cleaned for extended
periods of time.
Cleaners may contain solvents that
can become concentrated in the
interior. Before using cleaners, read
and adhere to all safety instructions
on the label. While cleaning the
interior, maintain adequate
ventilation by opening the doors and
windows.
To prevent damage, do not clean
the interior using the following
cleaners or techniques:
Never use a razor or any other
sharp object to remove a soil
from any interior surface.
Never use a brush with stiff
bristles.
Never rub any surface
aggressively or with excessive
pressure.
Do not use laundry detergents or
dishwashing soaps with
degreasers. For liquid cleaners,
use approximately 20 drops
per 3.78L (1 gal) of water.
A concentrated soap solution will
leave a residue that creates
10-101
streaks and attracts dirt. Do not
use solutions that contain strong
or caustic soap.
Do not heavily saturate the
upholstery when cleaning.
Do not use solvents or cleaners
containing solvents.
Interior Glass
To clean, use a terry cloth fabric
dampened with water. Wipe droplets
left behind with a clean dry cloth.
Commercial glass cleaners may be
used, if necessary, after cleaning
the interior glass with plain water.
Notice: To prevent scratching,
never use abrasive cleaners on
automotive glass. Abrasive
cleaners or aggressive cleaning
may damage the rear window
defogger.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-102
Black plate (102,1)
Vehicle Care
Fabric/Carpet
To clean:
Start by vacuuming the surface
using a soft brush attachment. If a
rotating brush attachment is being
used during vacuuming, only use it
on the floor carpet. Before cleaning,
gently remove as much of the soil
as possible using one of the
following techniques:
1. Saturate a clean lint-free
colorfast cloth with water or
club soda. Microfiber cloth is
recommended to prevent lint
transfer to the fabric or carpet.
Gently blot liquids with a paper
towel. Continue blotting until no
more soil can be removed.
For solid soils, remove as much
as possible prior to vacuuming.
2. Remove excess moisture by
gently wringing until water does
not drip from the cleaning cloth.
3. Start on the outside edge of the
soil and gently rub toward the
center. Rotate the cleaning cloth
to a clean area frequently to
prevent forcing the soil in to the
fabric.
4. Continue gently rubbing the
soiled area until there is no
longer any color transfer from
the soil to the cleaning cloth.
5. If the soil is not completely
removed, use a mild soap
solution followed only by club
soda or plain water.
If the soil is not completely
removed, it may be necessary to
use a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small
hidden area for colorfastness before
using a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. If ring
formation occurs, clean the entire
fabric or carpet.
Following the cleaning process, a
paper towel can be used to blot
excess moisture.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (103,1)
Vehicle Care
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and
Other Plastic Surfaces
Use a soft microfiber cloth
dampened with water to remove
dust and loose dirt. For a more
thorough cleaning, use a soft
microfiber cloth dampened with a
mild soap solution.
Notice: Soaking or saturating
leather, especially perforated
leather, as well as other interior
surfaces, may cause permanent
damage. Wipe excess moisture
from these surfaces after
cleaning and allow them to dry
naturally. Never use heat, steam,
spot lifters or spot removers.
Do not use cleaners that contain
silicone or wax-based products.
Cleaners containing these
solvents can permanently change
the appearance and feel of leather
or soft trim and are not
recommended.
Do not use cleaners that increase
gloss, especially on the instrument
panel. Reflected glare can decrease
visibility through the windshield
under certain conditions.
Notice: Use of air fresheners may
cause permanent damage to
plastics and painted surfaces.
If an air freshener comes in
contact with any plastic or
painted surface in the vehicle,
blot immediately and clean with a
soft cloth dampened with a mild
soap solution. Damage caused by
air fresheners would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
10-103
Care of Safety Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.
{ WARNING
Do not bleach or dye safety belts.
It may severely weaken them. In
a crash, they might not be able to
provide adequate protection.
Clean safety belts only with mild
soap and lukewarm water.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
10-104
Black plate (104,1)
Vehicle Care
Floor Mats
{ WARNING
If a floor mat is the wrong size or
is not properly installed, it can
interfere with the accelerator
pedal and/or brake pedal.
Interference with the pedals can
cause unintended acceleration
and/or increased stopping
distance which can cause a
crash and injury. Make sure
the floor mat does not interfere
with the pedals.
Use the following guidelines for
proper floor mat usage:
The original equipment floor
mats were designed for your
vehicle. If the floor mats need
replacing, it is recommended
that GM certified floor mats be
purchased. Non-GM floor mats
may not fit properly and may
interfere with the accelerator or
brake pedal. Always check that
the floor mats do not interfere
with the pedals.
Use the floor mat with the
correct side up. Do not turn
it over.
Do not place anything on top of
the driver side floor mat.
Use only a single floor mat on
the driver side.
Do not place one floor mat on
top of another.
Removing and Replacing the
Floor Mats
Pull up on the rear of the floor mat
to unlock each retainer and remove.
Reinstall by lining up the floor mat
retainer openings over the carpet
retainers and snap into position.
Make sure the floor mat is properly
secured in place.
Verify the floor mat does not
interfere with the pedals.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (1,1)
Service and Maintenance
Service and
Maintenance
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . 11-3
Special Application Services
Special Application
Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9
Additional Maintenance
and Care
Additional Maintenance
and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10
Recommended Fluids,
Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14
Maintenance Replacement
Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-16
Maintenance Records
Maintenance Records . . . . . . 11-17
General Information
Your vehicle is an important
investment. This section describes
the required maintenance for the
vehicle. Follow this schedule to
help protect against major repair
expenses resulting from neglect or
inadequate maintenance. It may
also help to maintain the value of
the vehicle if it is sold. It is the
responsibility of the owner to have
all required maintenance performed.
Your dealer has trained technicians
who can perform required
maintenance using genuine
replacement parts. They have
up‐to‐date tools and equipment for
fast and accurate diagnostics.
Many dealers have extended
evening and Saturday hours,
courtesy transportation, and
online scheduling to assist with
service needs.
11-1
Your dealer recognizes the
importance of providing
competitively priced maintenance
and repair services. With trained
technicians, the dealer is the place
for routine maintenance such as oil
changes and tire rotations and
additional maintenance items
like tires, brakes, batteries, and
wiper blades.
Notice: Damage caused by
improper maintenance can lead to
costly repairs and may not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Maintenance intervals, checks,
inspections, recommended fluids,
and lubricants are important to
keep the vehicle in good working
condition.
The Tire Rotation and Required
Services are the responsibility of the
vehicle owner. It is recommended to
have your dealer perform these
services every 12 000 km/7,500 mi.
Proper vehicle maintenance helps to
keep the vehicle in good working
condition, improves fuel economy,
and reduces vehicle emissions.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-2
Service and Maintenance
Because of the way people use
vehicles, maintenance needs vary.
There may need to be more
frequent checks and services.
The Additional Required Services ‐
Normal are for vehicles that:
Black plate (2,1)
Carry passengers and cargo
within recommended limits on
the Tire and Loading Information
label. See Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9‑10.
Are driven on reasonable road
surfaces within legal driving
limits.
Use the recommended fuel.
See Recommended Fuel on
page 9‑49.
Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services ‐ Normal chart.
The Additional Required Services ‐
Severe are for vehicles that are:
Mainly driven in hilly or
mountainous terrain.
Frequently towing a trailer.
Used for high speed or
competitive driving.
Used for taxi, police, or delivery
service.
Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services ‐ Severe chart.
{ WARNING
Performing maintenance work
can be dangerous and can
cause serious injury. Perform
maintenance work only if the
required information, proper tools,
and equipment are available.
If they are not, see your dealer to
have a trained technician do the
work. See Doing Your Own
Service Work on page 10‑4.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (3,1)
Service and Maintenance
Maintenance
Schedule
Owner Checks and Services
At Each Fuel Stop
Check the engine oil level.
See Engine Oil on page 10‑9.
Once a Month
Check the tire inflation
pressures. See Tire Pressure on
page 10‑51.
Inspect the tires for wear. See
Tire Inspection on page 10‑57.
Check the windshield washer
fluid level. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑22.
Engine Oil Change
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL
SOON message displays, have the
engine oil and filter changed within
the next 1 000 km/600 mi. If driven
under the best conditions, the
engine oil life system might not
indicate the need for vehicle service
for more than a year. The engine oil
and filter must be changed at least
once a year and the oil life system
must be reset. Your trained dealer
technician can perform this work.
11-3
If the engine oil life system is reset
accidentally, service the vehicle
within 5 000 km/3,000 mi since the
last service. Reset the oil life
system when the oil is changed.
See Engine Oil Life System on
page 10‑12.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-4
Service and Maintenance
Tire Rotation and Required
Services Every 12 000 km/
7,500 mi
Rotate the tires, if recommended
for the vehicle, and perform the
following services. See Tire
Rotation on page 10‑58.
Black plate (4,1)
Check engine oil level and oil
life percentage. If needed,
change engine oil and filter, and
reset oil life system. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9 and Engine Oil
Life System on page 10‑12.
Check engine coolant level. See
Engine Coolant on page 10‑16.
Check windshield washer fluid
level. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑22.
Visually inspect windshield wiper
blades for wear, cracking,
or contamination. See Exterior
Care on page 10‑98. Replace
worn or damaged wiper blades.
See Wiper Blade Replacement
on page 10‑27.
Check tire inflation pressures.
See Tire Pressure on
page 10‑51.
Inspect tire wear. See Tire
Inspection on page 10‑57.
Visually check for fluid leaks.
Inspect engine air cleaner filter.
See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on
page 10‑13.
Inspect brake system.
Visually inspect steering,
suspension, and chassis
components for damaged, loose,
or missing parts or signs of
wear. See Exterior Care on
page 10‑98.
Check restraint system
components. See Safety System
Check on page 3‑19.
Visually inspect fuel system for
damage or leaks.
Visually inspect exhaust system
and nearby heat shields for
loose or damaged parts.
Lubricate body components.
See Exterior Care on
page 10‑98.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (5,1)
Service and Maintenance
Check starter switch. See Starter
Switch Check on page 10‑26.
Check automatic transmission
shift lock control function. See
Automatic Transmission Shift
Lock Control Function Check on
page 10‑26.
Check ignition transmission lock.
See Ignition Transmission Lock
Check on page 10‑27.
Check accelerator pedal for
damage, high effort, or binding.
Replace if needed.
Visually inspect gas strut for
signs of wear, cracks, or other
damage. Check the hold open
ability of the strut. See your
dealer if service is required.
Check tire sealant expiration
date, if equipped. See Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit
(With Pressure Relief Button) on
page 10‑67 or Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit (With Pressure
Deflation Button) on page 10‑74.
Inspect sunroof track and seal,
if equipped. See Sunroof on
page 2‑21.
Check parking brake and
automatic transmission park
mechanism. See Park Brake and
P (Park) Mechanism Check on
page 10‑27.
11-5
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-6
Service and Maintenance
Black plate (6,1)
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (7,1)
Service and Maintenance
Footnotes — Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services — Normal
a) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent
replacement may be needed if the
vehicle is driven in areas with heavy
traffic, areas with poor air quality,
or areas with high dust levels.
Replacement may also be needed if
there is a reduction in air flow,
excessive window fogging, or odors.
b) Check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper hook‐up,
routing, and condition. Check that
the purge valve, if the vehicle has
one, works properly. Replace as
needed.
c) Or every four years, whichever
comes first.
d) Do not directly power wash the
transfer case output seals. High
pressure water can overcome the
seals and contaminate the transfer
case fluid. Contaminated fluid will
decrease the life of the transfer
case and should be replaced.
e) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System on
page 10‑15.
f) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
11-7
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-8
Service and Maintenance
Black plate (8,1)
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (9,1)
Service and Maintenance
Footnotes — Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services — Severe
a) Or every two years, whichever
comes first.
b) Check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper hook‐up,
routing, and condition. Check that
the purge valve, if the vehicle has
one, works properly. Replace as
needed.
c) Or every four years, whichever
comes first.
d) Do not directly power wash the
transfer case output seals. High
pressure water can overcome the
seals and contaminate the transfer
case fluid. Contaminated fluid will
decrease the life of the transfer
case and should be replaced.
e) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System on
page 10‑15.
f) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
11-9
Special Application
Services
Severe Commercial Use
Vehicles Only: Lubricate chassis
components every 5 000 km/
3,000 mi.
Have underbody flushing service
performed once a year.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-10
Black plate (10,1)
Service and Maintenance
Additional
Maintenance and Care
Your vehicle is an important
investment and caring for it properly
may help to avoid future costly
repairs. To maintain vehicle
performance, additional
maintenance services may be
required. It is recommended
that your dealer perform these
services — their trained dealer
technicians know your vehicle best.
Your dealer can also perform a
thorough assessment with a
multi‐point inspection to recommend
when your vehicle may need
attention. The following list is
intended to explain the services and
conditions to look for that may
indicate services are required.
Battery
The battery supplies power to
start the engine and operate any
additional electrical accessories.
To avoid break‐down or failure to
start the vehicle, maintain a
battery with full cranking power.
Trained dealer technicians have
the diagnostic equipment to test
the battery and ensure that the
connections and cables are
corrosion‐free.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (11,1)
Service and Maintenance
Belts
Belts may need replacing if
they squeak or show signs of
cracking or splitting.
Trained dealer technicians
can inspect the belts and
recommend replacement
when necessary.
Fluids
Hoses
Proper fluid levels and approved
fluids protect the vehicle’s
systems and components.
See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑14 for
GM approved fluids.
Hoses transport fluids and should
be regularly inspected to ensure
that there are no cracks or leaks.
With a multi‐point inspection, your
dealer can inspect the hoses and
advise if replacement is needed.
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are
crucial to safe driving.
Signs of brake wear may include
chirping, grinding, or squealing
noises, or difficulty stopping.
Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment
to inspect the brakes and
recommend quality parts
engineered for the vehicle.
11-11
Engine oil and windshield
washer fluid levels should be
checked at every fuel fill.
Instrument cluster lights may
come on to indicate that
fluids may be low and need
to be filled.
Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, or damage.
The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure
that they light when braking.
With a multi‐point inspection,
your dealer can check the lamps
and note any concerns.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-12
Black plate (12,1)
Service and Maintenance
Shocks and Struts
Tires
Vehicle Care
Shocks and struts help aid in control
for a smoother ride.
Tires need to be properly inflated,
rotated, and balanced. Maintaining
the tires can save money, fuel, and
can reduce the risk of tire failure.
To help keep the vehicle looking
like new, vehicle care products are
available from your dealer. For
information on how to clean and
protect the vehicle’s interior and
exterior, see Interior Care on
page 10‑101 and Exterior Care on
page 10‑98.
Signs of wear may include
steering wheel vibration, bounce/
sway while braking, longer
stopping distance, or uneven
tire wear.
As part of the multi‐point
inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect
the shocks and struts for signs
of leaking, blown seals,
or damage, and can advise
when service is needed.
Signs that the tires need to be
replaced include three or more
visible treadwear indicators; cord
or fabric showing through the
rubber; cracks or cuts in the
tread or sidewall; or a bulge or
split in the tire.
Trained dealer technicians can
inspect and recommend the
right tires. Your dealer can also
provide tire/wheel balancing
services to ensure smooth
vehicle operation at all speeds.
Your dealer sells and services
name brand tires.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment is critical for
ensuring that the tires deliver
optimal wear and performance.
Signs that the alignment may
need to be adjusted include
pulling, improper vehicle
handling, or unusual tire wear.
Your dealer has the required
equipment to ensure proper
wheel alignment.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (13,1)
Service and Maintenance
Windshield
Wiper Blades
For safety, appearance, and the
best viewing, keep the windshield
clean and clear.
Wiper blades need to be cleaned
and kept in good condition to
provide a clear view.
Signs of damage include
scratches, cracks, and chips.
Trained dealer technicians can
inspect the windshield and
recommend proper replacement
if needed.
Signs of wear include streaking,
skipping across the windshield,
and worn or split rubber.
Trained dealer technicians can
check the wiper blades and
replace them when needed.
11-13
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-14
Black plate (14,1)
Service and Maintenance
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Usage
Engine Oil
Fluid/Lubricant
Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specfication, or equivalent, of
the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is
recommended. See Engine Oil on page 10‑9.
Engine Coolant (3.6L V6 Engine)
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant.
See Engine Coolant on page 10‑16.
Engine Coolant (2.4L L4 Engine)
Always use the pre‐mixed 50/50 mixture of deionized water and
DEX-COOL Coolant available at your dealer.
Hydraulic Brake System
Windshield Washer
DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
(GM Part No. 88862806, in Canada 88862807).
Optikleen® Washer Solvent.
Hydraulic Power Steering System
DEXRON®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Automatic Transmission
DEXRON®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (15,1)
Service and Maintenance
Usage
Key Lock Cylinders
Hood Latch Assembly,
Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring
Anchor, and Release Pawl
Hood and Door Hinges
Weatherstrip Conditioning
11-15
Fluid/Lubricant
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. 12346241, in Canada 10953474).
Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (GM Part No. 12346293, in Canada 992723)
or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. 12346241, in Canada 10953474).
Weatherstrip Lubricant (GM Part No. 3634770, in Canada 10953518) or
Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part No. 12345579, in Canada 992887).
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-16
Black plate (16,1)
Service and Maintenance
Maintenance Replacement Parts
Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.
Part
GM Part Number
ACDelco Part Number
55560894
A3128C
2.4L L4 Engine
12605566
PF457G
3.6L V6 Engine
89017525
PF63
13271191
CF176
2.4L L4 Engine
12620540
41–108
3.6L V6 Engine
12622561
41–109
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Engine Oil Filter
Passenger Compartment Air Filter
Spark Plugs
Wiper Blades
Driver Side – 65 cm (25.6 in)
25892079
—
Passenger Side – 45 cm (17.7 in)
25882578
—
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (17,1)
Service and Maintenance
11-17
Maintenance Records
After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the
type of services performed in the boxes provided. Retain all maintenance receipts.
Date
Odometer
Reading
Serviced By
Services Performed
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-18
Date
Black plate (18,1)
Service and Maintenance
Odometer
Reading
Serviced By
Services Performed
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (19,1)
Service and Maintenance
Date
Odometer
Reading
Serviced By
Services Performed
11-19
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
11-20
Date
Black plate (20,1)
Service and Maintenance
Odometer
Reading
Serviced By
Services Performed
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (1,1)
Technical Data
Technical Data
Vehicle Identification
Vehicle Identification
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN)
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1
Service Parts Identification
Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1
Vehicle Data
Capacities and
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Engine Drive Belt Routing . . . 12-4
12-1
Engine Identification
The eighth character in the VIN is
the engine code. This code
identifies the vehicle's engine,
specifications, and replacement
parts. See “Engine Specifications”
under Capacities and Specifications
on page 12‑2 for the vehicle's
engine code.
Service Parts
Identification Label
This label, in the trunk, has the
following information:
This legal identifier is in the front
corner of the instrument panel, on
the left side of the vehicle. It can be
seen through the windshield from
outside. The VIN also appears on
the Vehicle Certification and Service
Parts labels and certificates of title
and registration.
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN).
Model designation.
Paint information.
Production options and special
equipment.
Do not remove this label from the
vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
12-2
Black plate (2,1)
Technical Data
Vehicle Data
Capacities and Specifications
Application
Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a
Capacities
Metric
English
For the air conditioning system refrigerant charge
amount, see the refrigerant label located under the
hood. See your dealer for more information.
Engine Cooling System
2.4L L4 Engine
9.6 L
10.1 qt
3.6L V6 Engine
7.1 L
7.5 qt
2.4L L4 Engine
4.7 L
5.0 qt
3.6L V6 Engine
5.7 L
6.0 qt
2.4L L4 Engine
60.0 L
15.8 gal
3.6L V6 Engine, AWD
74.0 L
19.5 gal
3.6L V6 Engine, FWD
70.5 L
18.6 gal
Engine Oil with Filter
Fuel Tank
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (3,1)
Technical Data
Capacities
Application
Metric
English
2.4L L4 Engine, 6–Speed Automatic
5.0 L
5.3 qt
3.6L V6 Engine, 6–Speed Automatic
5.0 L
5.3 qt
150 Y
110 lb ft
Transmission Fluid* (Drain and Refill)
Wheel Nut Torque
*See Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 10‑13 for information on checking fluid level.
All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level, as recommended in this
manual. Recheck fluid level after filling.
Engine Specifications
Engine
VIN Code
Transmission
Spark Plug Gap
2.4L L4 Engine
Automatic
0.9 mm (0.035 in)
3.6L V6 Engine
Automatic
1.10 mm (0.043 in)
12-3
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
12-4
Black plate (4,1)
Technical Data
Engine Drive Belt Routing
3.6L V6 Engine
2.4L L4 Engine
Belt removal and installation
requires special tools. See your
dealer for service.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (1,1)
Customer Information
Customer
Information
Customer Information
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure (U.S. and
Canada) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure (Mexico) . . . . . . . . 13-3
Customer Assistance Offices
(U.S. and Canada) . . . . . . . . . 13-4
Customer Assistance Offices
(Mexico) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Customer Assistance for Text
Telephone (TTY) Users (U.S.
and Canada) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-6
Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . 13-6
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program (U.S. and
Canada) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7
Roadside Assistance Program
(U.S. and Canada) . . . . . . . . . 13-7
Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-9
Scheduling Service
Appointments (U.S. and
Canada) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-12
Courtesy Transportation
Program (U.S. and
Canada) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Collision Damage Repair
(U.S. and Canada) . . . . . . . . 13-14
Service Publications
Ordering Information . . . . . . 13-16
Reporting Safety Defects
Reporting Safety Defects to
the United States
Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-17
Reporting Safety Defects to
the Canadian
Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18
Reporting Safety Defects to
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18
Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy
Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . 13-19
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-20
Navigation System . . . . . . . . . 13-20
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . 13-20
Radio Frequency
Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-20
13-1
Customer Information
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure (U.S. and
Canada)
Your satisfaction and goodwill are
important to your dealer and to
Buick. Normally, any concerns with
the sales transaction or the
operation of the vehicle will be
resolved by your dealer's sales or
service departments. Sometimes,
however, despite the best intentions
of all concerned, misunderstandings
can occur. If your concern has not
been resolved to your satisfaction,
the following steps should be taken:
STEP ONE: Discuss your concern
with a member of dealership
management. Normally, concerns
can be quickly resolved at that level.
If the matter has already been
reviewed with the sales, service,
or parts manager, contact the owner
of your dealership or the general
manager.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-2
Customer Information
STEP TWO: If after contacting a
member of dealership management,
it appears your concern cannot be
resolved by your dealership without
further help, in the U.S., call
1-800-521-7300. In Canada,
contact General Motors of Canada
Customer Care Centre at
1‐800-263-3777 (English) or
1-800-263-7854 (French).
We encourage you to call the
toll-free number in order to give the
inquiry prompt attention. Have the
following information available to
give the Customer Assistance
representative:
Black plate (2,1)
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN). This is available
from the vehicle registration or
title, or the plate at the top left of
the instrument panel and visible
through the windshield.
Dealership name and location.
Vehicle delivery date and
present mileage.
When contacting Buick, remember
that your concern will likely be
resolved at a dealer's facility.
That is why we suggest following
Step One first.
STEP THREE — U.S. Owners:
Both General Motors and your
dealer are committed to making
sure you are completely satisfied
with the new vehicle. However,
if you continue to remain unsatisfied
after following the procedure
outlined in Steps One and Two, you
can file with the Better Business
Bureau (BBB) Auto Line® Program
to enforce your rights.
The BBB Auto Line Program is an
out-of-court program administered
by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus to settle automotive
disputes regarding vehicle repairs or
the interpretation of the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty. Although you may
be required to resort to this informal
dispute resolution program prior to
filing a court action, use of the
program is free of charge and your
case will generally be heard within
40 days. If you do not agree with the
decision given in your case, you
may reject it and proceed with any
other venue for relief available
to you.
You may contact the BBB Auto Line
Program using the toll-free
telephone number or write them
at the following address:
BBB Auto Line Program
Council of Better Business
Bureaus, Inc.
4200 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 800
Arlington, VA 22203-1838
Telephone: 1-800-955-5100
www.dr.bbb.org/goauto
This program is available in all
50 states and the District of
Columbia. Eligibility is limited by
vehicle age, mileage, and other
factors. General Motors reserves
the right to change eligibility
limitations and/or discontinue its
participation in this program.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (3,1)
Customer Information
STEP THREE — Canadian
Owners: In the event that you do
not feel your concerns have been
addressed after following the
procedure outlined in Steps One
and Two, General Motors of Canada
Limited wants you to be aware of
its participation in a no-charge
Mediation/Arbitration program.
General Motors of Canada Limited
has committed to binding arbitration
of owner disputes involving
factory-related vehicle service
claims. The program provides for
the review of the facts involved by
an impartial third party arbiter, and
may include an informal hearing
before the arbiter. The program is
designed so that the entire dispute
settlement process, from the time
you file your complaint to the final
decision, should be completed in
approximately 70 days. We believe
our impartial program offers
advantages over courts in most
jurisdictions because it is informal,
quick, and free of charge.
For further information concerning
eligibility in the Canadian Motor
Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP),
call toll-free 1-800-207-0685, or call
the General Motors Customer Care
Centre, 1-800-263-3777 (English),
1-800-263-7854 (French),
or write to:
Mediation/Arbitration Program
c/o Customer Care Centre
General Motors of Canada Limited
Mail Code: CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
The inquiry should be accompanied
by the Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN).
13-3
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure (Mexico)
Did you get the Warranty Extension
Plan? This plan is recommended by
General Motors to supplement the
warranty included with the new
vehicle purchase.
See your dealer for details.
Customer Assistance
Procedure
Owner satisfaction and goodwill are
very important to your dealer and
General Motors.
Normally, any problem with the
transaction, sale, or usage of the
vehicle must be handled by your
dealer sales or service departments.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-4
Black plate (4,1)
Customer Information
However, we recognize that
despite the good intentions of all
parties involved, sometimes a
misunderstanding may occur.
If you have a problem that has not
been satisfactorily handled through
the normal means, we suggest the
following steps:
STEP ONE
Explain your case to your dealer
service agent, service manager,
dealer sales agent, or sales
manager, depending on your case.
Make sure that they have all
necessary information. They are
interested in your continual
satisfaction.
STEP TWO
If you are not satisfied, please
contact the general manager or your
dealership owner to ask for their
help. If they are not able to resolve
your case, ask them to contact the
right people at General Motors for
support, if needed.
STEP THREE
If your case is not resolved in a
reasonable amount of time by your
dealer, please call the General
Motors Customer Assistance
Center (CAC) and provide the
following information:
Name
Address
Phone number
Model year
Brand
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN)
Mileage
Delivery date
Description of the problem
Dealership name
Dealership address
See Customer Assistance Offices
(U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑4 or
Customer Assistance Offices
(Mexico) on page 13‑5 for more
information.
Customer Assistance
Offices (U.S. and Canada)
Buick encourages customers to call
the toll-free number for assistance.
However, if a customer wishes to
write or e-mail Buick, the letter
should be addressed to:
United States
Buick Customer Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33136
Detroit, MI 48232-5136
www.Buick.com
1-800-521-7300
1-800-832-8425 (For Text
Telephone devices (TTYs))
Roadside Assistance:
1-800-252-1112
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (5,1)
Customer Information
From Puerto Rico:
1-800-496-9992 (English)
1-800-496-9993 (Spanish)
From U.S. Virgin Islands:
1-800-496-9994
Canada
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Care Centre, Mail Code:
CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
www.gm.ca
1-800-263-3777 (English)
1-800-263-7854 (French)
1-800-263-3830 (For Text
Telephone devices (TTYs))
Roadside Assistance:
1-800-268-6800
All Overseas Locations
Please contact the local General
Motors Business Unit.
13-5
Mexico, Central America and
Caribbean Islands/Countries
(Except Puerto Rico and U.S.
Virgin Islands)
Mexico
General Motors de Mexico, S. de
R.L. de C.V.
Customer Assistance Center
Av. Ejercito Nacional #843
Col. Granada
C.P. 11520, Mexico, D.F.
From Other Mexico Locations
01-800-466-0818
Long Distance: 011-52-53 29 0818
From Mexico City
5329-0818
01-800-466-0818
United States and Canada
1-800-521-7300
Costa Rica
00-800-052-1005
Customer Assistance
Offices (Mexico)
Guatemala
To contact the Customer Assistance
Center (CAC), use the phone
numbers listed in this section.
Customer assistance is available
Monday through Friday, 08:00 to
20:00 hours, and Saturdays from
08:00 to 15:00 hours.
Panama
All e-mail inquiries to the Customer
Assistance Center (CAC) should be
sent to: cac.buick@gm.com.
800-6273
1-800-999-5252
00-800-052-0001
Dominican Republic
1-888-751-5301
El Salvador
Honduras
800-0122-6101
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-6
Black plate (6,1)
Customer Information
Customer Assistance for
Text Telephone (TTY)
Users (U.S. and Canada)
Buick dealer locator for service
nationwide.
Exclusive privileges and offers.
Recall notices for your specific
vehicle.
OnStar and GM Cardmember
Services Earnings summaries.
To assist customers who are deaf,
hard of hearing, or speech-impaired
and who use Text Telephones
(TTYs), Buick has TTY equipment
available at its Customer Assistance
Center. Any TTY user can
communicate with Buick by dialing:
1-800-832-8425. TTY users in
Canada can dial 1‐800‐263-3830.
Other Helpful Links:
Online Owner Center
Help Center — http://
www.buick.com/help/faqs.html
Buick Merchandise —
www.buickmerchandise.com
FAQ (Frequently Asked
Questions)
Information and services
customized for your specific
vehicle — all in one convenient
place.
Contact Us
Digital owner manual, warranty
information, and more.
Storage for online service and
maintenance records.
My Showroom: Find and save
information on vehicles and
current offers in your area.
My Dealers: Save details
such as address and phone
number for each of your
preferred GM dealers.
My Driveway: Access quick links
to parts and service estimates,
check trade-in values,
or schedule a service
appointment by adding the
vehicles you own to your
driveway profile.
My Preferences: Manage your
profile and use tools and forms
with greater ease.
Buick — www.buick.com
Buick Owner Center (U.S.)
www.buickownercenter.com
Here are a few of the valuable tools
and services you will have
access to:
My GM Canada www.gm.ca
My GM Canada is a
password-protected section of
www.gm.ca where you can save
information on GM vehicles, get
personalized offers, and use handy
tools and forms with greater ease.
To sign up, visit the My GM.ca
section within www.gm.ca.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (7,1)
Customer Information
GM Mobility
Reimbursement Program
(U.S. and Canada)
General Motors of Canada also
has a Mobility Program. Call
1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483) for
details. TTY users call
1-800-263-3830.
Roadside Assistance
Program (U.S. and
Canada)
This program is available to
qualified applicants for cost
reimbursement of eligible
aftermarket adaptive equipment
required for the vehicle, such as
hand controls or a wheelchair/
scooter lift for the vehicle.
For more information on the limited
offer, visit www.gmmobility.com or
call the GM Mobility Assistance
Center at 1-800-323-9935.
Text Telephone (TTY) users, call
1-800-833-9935.
13-7
Location of the vehicle.
Model, year, color, and license
plate number of the vehicle.
Odometer reading, Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), and
delivery date of the vehicle.
Description of the problem.
Coverage
For U.S.‐purchased vehicles, call
1-800-252-1112; (Text Telephone
(TTY): 1‐888‐889‐2438).
Services are provided up to 5 years/
160 000 km (100,000 mi), whichever
comes first.
For Canadian‐purchased vehicles,
call 1-800-268-6800.
In the U.S., anyone driving the
vehicle is covered. In Canada, a
person driving the vehicle without
permission from the owner is not
covered.
Service is available 24 hours a day,
365 days a year.
Calling for Assistance
When calling Roadside Assistance,
have the following information
ready:
Your name, home address, and
home telephone number.
Telephone number of your
location.
Roadside Assistance is not a part of
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Buick and General Motors of
Canada Limited reserve the right to
make any changes or discontinue
the Roadside Assistance program at
any time without notification.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-8
Black plate (8,1)
Customer Information
Buick and General Motors of
Canada Limited reserve the right to
limit services or payment to an
owner or driver if they decide the
claims are made too often, or the
same type of claim is made
many times.
cannot be driven. Assistance is
also given when the vehicle is
stuck in sand, mud, or snow.
Services Provided
Emergency Fuel Delivery:
Delivery of enough fuel for the
vehicle to get to the nearest
service station.
Lock‐Out Service: Service to
unlock the vehicle if you are
locked out. A remote unlock
may be available if you have
OnStar®. For security reasons,
the driver must present
identification before this
service is given.
Emergency Tow from a
Public Road or Highway:
Tow to the nearest Buick dealer
for warranty service, or if the
vehicle was in a crash and
Flat Tire Change: Service to
change a flat tire with the spare
tire. The spare tire, if equipped,
must be in good condition and
properly inflated. It is the owner's
responsibility for the repair or
replacement of the tire if it is
not covered by the warranty.
Battery Jump Start: Service to
jump start a dead battery.
Services Not Included in
Roadside Assistance
Impound towing caused by
violation of any laws.
Legal fines.
Mounting, dismounting,
or changing of snow tires,
chains, or other traction devices.
Towing or services for vehicles
driven on a non-public road
or highway.
Services Specific to Canadian‐
Purchased Vehicles
Fuel delivery: Reimbursement
is approximately $5 Canadian.
Diesel fuel delivery may be
restricted. Propane and other
fuels are not provided through
this service.
Lock-Out Service: Vehicle
registration is required.
Trip Routing Service: Detailed
maps of North America are
provided when requested either
with the most direct route or the
most scenic route. There is a
six request limit per year.
Additional travel information is
also available. Allow three
weeks for delivery.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (9,1)
Customer Information
Trip Interruption Benefits and
Assistance: Must be over
250 kilometers from where your
trip was started to qualify.
General Motors of
Canada Limited requires
pre-authorization, original
detailed receipts, and a copy
of the repair orders. Once
authorization has been received,
the Roadside Assistance advisor
will help you make arrangements
and explain how to receive
payment.
Alternative Service:
If assistance cannot be provided
right away, the Roadside
Assistance advisor may give
permission to get local
emergency road service. You will
receive payment, up to $100,
after sending the original receipt
to Roadside Assistance.
Mechanical failures may be
covered, however any cost for
parts and labor for repairs not
covered by the warranty are the
owner responsibility.
Roadside Assistance
Program (Mexico)
As a new owner, your vehicle is
automatically enrolled in the
Roadside Assistance program.
The services are available at no
cost under the terms and conditions
of the program. The Roadside
Assistance program is not part of,
or included, in the coverage
provided by the new vehicle
limited warranty.
Roadside Assistance provides
assistance to the driver and
passengers while driving the vehicle
within your city of residence or on
any passable road in Mexico, the
United States, and Canada.
Services are subject to the
limitations described in the following
pages. Program coverage varies by
country.
Roadside Assistance is available
24 hours a day, 365 days of
the year.
13-9
This program expires two years
from the date of the invoice for the
vehicle, regardless of vehicle
mileage and changes in
vehicle ownership.
For more information about the
renewal of this program at the end
of its term, contact the Buick
Customer Assistance Center at
01-800-466-0818.
Services Provided
Flat Tire Change: If unable to
change a flat tire, Roadside
Assistance will provide towing
service to the nearest authorized
Buick dealership. It is the
owner's responsibility for the
repair or replacement of the tire.
This service is limited to the
transfer of the vehicle to the
repair facility.
Emergency Fuel Delivery:
Delivery of enough fuel for the
vehicle to get to the nearest
service station.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-10
Customer Information
Lock-Out Service: Service to
unlock the vehicle if you are
locked out.
Battery Jump Start: Service to
jump start a dead battery.
*Emergency Messages:
Transmission of urgent phone
messages.
*Emergency Calls: Call for
emergency services.
*Dealership Location
Assistance: Information
regarding addresses and
telephone numbers for
Buick dealers.
Black plate (10,1)
Emergency Towing: Tow to the
nearest dealer for warranty
service if the vehicle cannot be
driven.
If the vehicle is involved in an
accident during the commission
of a crime, administrative
violation, or breach of traffic
regulations, Roadside
Assistance will not provide
service.
When the vehicle is not
accessible to be towed, all
maneuvers required to access it
will be at the owner's expense.
If the vehicle is in another city
outside of your residence,
Roadside Assistance is limited
to moving the vehicle to the
nearest dealer. If you would like
the vehicle moved to a different
dealer, you will be asked to
cover the difference in cost at
the time of the move.
If the vehicle cannot be received
by the nearest Buick dealer due
to scheduling conflicts, the
vehicle will be taken to a safe
place where it will remain for up
to 48 hours until it can be taken
to the dealer. If the storage costs
exceed the amount authorized,
the owner is responsible to pay
the difference at the time of
service. Contact Roadside
Assistance for more information
on authorized amounts.
*Trip Interruption: This service
is provided if you are prevented
from further usage of your
vehicle while traveling and it is
not possible for the nearest
Buick dealership to repair the
vehicle the same day, requiring
the vehicle to stay at the
dealership for a night or more.
If this happens, in addition to the
previously listed services and
prior to confirmation by the
dealership, you are entitled to
choose one of the following
alternatives, within the limits of
existing Roadside Assistance
program guidelines. If the costs
exceed the amount authorized
for these services, you must pay
the difference at the time of
service.
Roadside Assistance will
coordinate hotel
accommodations for all vehicle
travelers for up to two nights.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (11,1)
Customer Information
A rental car will be provided for
up to two days and the vehicle
must be returned to its original
destination, excluding vehicles
with a carrying capacity greater
than 3.5 tons.
Complimentary Transportation:
If you prefer to continue your
trip to the intended destination
or return to your place of
residence, and the trip requires
more than eight hours driving on
the road, transportation for the
driver and passengers by first
class bus or coach commercial
airline will be provided to a
location chosen by Roadside
Assistance, depending on
availability at the chosen
destination. Restrictions apply
based on vehicle specifications.
If you are on the road, taxi
service to the nearest bus
station or airport will be
provided.
*Complimentary
Transportation for Vehicle Pick
Up: Transportation to pick up
your vehicle after repairs are
complete. Once the dealer has
reported that the vehicle has
been repaired, Roadside
Assistance will provide bus or
commercial airline one-way
service (subject to availability)
for the person designated by you
to collect your vehicle at the
dealership's location if you or the
designated person are not in the
same town or city as the
dealership.
*These services are not provided for
U.S. or Canada residents. All
services provided in the U.S. and
Canada are at the owner's expense
and will be reimbursed by Roadside
Assistance.
13-11
Services Not Included in Roadside
Assistance
Roadside Assistance does not
cover or reimburse services for
the following:
Events caused by fraud or
bad faith by the driver.
Vehicle immobilization situations
due to a major force or
unforeseen circumstances, such
as natural phenomena of an
extraordinary nature,
earthquakes, volcanic eruptions,
and other cyclonic storms.
Vehicle immobilization situations
arising from car accidents
caused by the driver of the
vehicle or third parties. This
means any occurrence that
causes physical injury to the
occupants and/or the vehicle
caused by external forces.
Acts of terrorism, riot or uproar,
armed forces or police actions
which prevent timely delivery of
assistance services.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-12
Customer Information
Food service, beverages,
telephone calls, or other extra
costs. Accommodation costs
apply only to Mexico per the
terms and conditions of the
Roadside Assistance program.
Any damage to the vehicle
without intent, derived from the
services provided.
Cost of towing a trailer when
choosing a Buick dealer that is
nearest to the temporary storage
facility for the disabled vehicle.
Black plate (12,1)
Contacting Roadside Assistance
Roadside Assistance services are of
no cost to you and available
24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Costs are only incurred in situations
that exceed the limits of the
program, some of which are listed
previously in this section.
To contact Roadside Assistance by
phone, use the following numbers:
Mexico
01-800-466-0818
Cost of all maneuvers required
to access the vehicle when it
is not available to be towed.
United States
Cost of fuel provided.
Canada
Routine vehicle repair costs are
not covered by the Roadside
Assistance program. For more
information, see your new vehicle
warranty.
1-866-466-8197
1-800-268-6800
E-mail
asistencia.buick@gm.com
Buick reserves the right to make
any changes or discontinue the
Roadside Assistance program at
any time without notification.
Scheduling Service
Appointments (U.S. and
Canada)
When the vehicle requires warranty
service, contact your dealer and
request an appointment. By
scheduling a service appointment
and advising the service consultant
of your transportation needs, your
dealer can help minimize your
inconvenience.
If the vehicle cannot be scheduled
into the service department
immediately, keep driving it until it
can be scheduled for service,
unless, of course, the problem is
safety related. If it is, please call
your dealership, let them know this,
and ask for instructions.
If your dealer requests you to bring
the vehicle for service, you are
urged to do so as early in the work
day as possible to allow for same
day-repair.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (13,1)
Customer Information
Courtesy Transportation
Program (U.S. and
Canada)
To enhance your ownership
experience, we and our participating
dealers are proud to offer Courtesy
Transportation, a customer support
program for vehicles with the
Bumper-to-Bumper (Base Warranty
Coverage period in Canada),
extended powertrain, and/or
warranties specific to e-Assist in
both the U.S. and Canada.
Several Courtesy Transportation
options are available to assist in
reducing inconvenience when
warranty repairs are required.
Courtesy Transportation is not a
part of the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty. A separate booklet
entitled “Warranty and Owner
Assistance Information” furnished
with each new vehicle provides
detailed warranty coverage
information.
Transportation Options
Warranty service can generally be
completed while you wait. However,
if you are unable to wait, GM helps
to minimize inconvenience by
providing several transportation
options. Depending on the
circumstances, your dealer can
offer one of the following:
Shuttle Service
Shuttle service is the preferred
means of offering Courtesy
Transportation. Dealers may provide
shuttle service to get you to your
destination with minimal interruption
of your daily schedule. This includes
one‐way or round‐trip shuttle service
within reasonable time and distance
parameters of your dealer's area.
Public Transportation or Fuel
Reimbursement
If the vehicle requires overnight
warranty repairs, and public
transportation is used instead of
your dealer's shuttle service, the
expense must be supported by
13-13
original receipts and can only be up
to the maximum amount allowed by
GM for shuttle service. In addition,
for U.S. customers, should you
arrange transportation through
a friend or relative, limited
reimbursement for reasonable fuel
expenses may be available. Claim
amounts should reflect actual costs
and be supported by original
receipts. See your dealer for
information regarding the allowance
amounts for reimbursement of fuel
or other transportation costs.
Courtesy Rental Vehicle
Your dealer may arrange to provide
you with a courtesy rental vehicle or
reimburse you for a rental vehicle
that you obtain if the vehicle is kept
for an overnight warranty repair.
Rental reimbursement will be limited
and must be supported by original
receipts. This requires that you sign
and complete a rental agreement
and meet state/provincial, local, and
rental vehicle provider requirements.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-14
Black plate (14,1)
Customer Information
Requirements vary and may
include minimum age requirements,
insurance coverage, credit card, etc.
You are responsible for fuel usage
charges and may also be
responsible for taxes, levies,
usage fees, excessive mileage,
or rental usage beyond the
completion of the repair.
It may not be possible to provide a
like vehicle as a courtesy rental.
Additional Program
Information
All program options, such as shuttle
service, may not be available at
every dealer. Please contact your
dealer for specific information
about availability. All Courtesy
Transportation arrangements will
be administered by appropriate
dealer personnel.
General Motors reserves the
right to unilaterally modify,
change, or discontinue Courtesy
Transportation at any time and to
resolve all questions of claim
eligibility pursuant to the terms and
conditions described herein at its
sole discretion.
Collision Damage Repair
(U.S. and Canada)
If the vehicle is involved in a
collision and it is damaged, have the
damage repaired by a qualified
technician using the proper
equipment and quality replacement
parts. Poorly performed collision
repairs diminish the vehicle resale
value, and safety performance can
be compromised in subsequent
collisions.
Collision Parts
Genuine GM Collision parts are new
parts made with the same materials
and construction methods as the
parts with which the vehicle was
originally built. Genuine GM
Collision parts are the best choice to
ensure that the vehicle's designed
appearance, durability, and safety
are preserved. The use of Genuine
GM parts can help maintain the
GM New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Recycled original equipment parts
may also be used for repair. These
parts are typically removed from
vehicles that were total losses in
prior crashes. In most cases, the
parts being recycled are from
undamaged sections of the vehicle.
A recycled original equipment GM
part may be an acceptable choice to
maintain the vehicle's originally
designed appearance and safety
performance; however, the history of
these parts is not known. Such parts
are not covered by the GM New
Vehicle Limited Warranty, and any
related failures are not covered by
that warranty.
Aftermarket collision parts are
also available. These are made by
companies other than GM and may
not have been tested for the vehicle.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (15,1)
Customer Information
As a result, these parts may fit
poorly, exhibit premature durability/
corrosion problems, and may not
perform properly in subsequent
collisions. Aftermarket parts are not
covered by the GM New Vehicle
Limited Warranty, and any vehicle
failure related to such parts is not
covered by that warranty.
Repair Facility
GM also recommends that you
choose a collision repair facility that
meets your needs before you ever
need collision repairs. Your dealer
may have a collision repair center
with GM-trained technicians and
state‐of‐the‐art equipment, or be
able to recommend a collision
repair center that has GM-trained
technicians and comparable
equipment.
Insuring the Vehicle
Protect your investment in the
GM vehicle with comprehensive and
collision insurance coverage. There
are significant differences in the
quality of coverage afforded by
various insurance policy terms.
Many insurance policies provide
reduced protection to the GM
vehicle by limiting compensation
for damage repairs by using
aftermarket collision parts. Some
insurance companies will not
specify aftermarket collision parts.
When purchasing insurance, we
recommend that you ensure that
the vehicle will be repaired with
GM original equipment collision
parts. If such insurance coverage
is not available from your current
insurance carrier, consider switching
to another insurance carrier.
If the vehicle is leased, the leasing
company may require you to have
insurance that ensures repairs with
13-15
Genuine GM Original Equipment
Manufacturer (OEM) parts or
Genuine Manufacturer replacement
parts. Read the lease carefully, as
you may be charged at the end of
the lease for poor quality repairs.
If a Crash Occurs
If there has been an injury, call
emergency services for help. Do not
leave the scene of a crash until all
matters have been taken care of.
Move the vehicle only if its position
puts you in danger, or you are
instructed to move it by a
police officer.
Give only the necessary information
to police and other parties involved
in the crash.
For emergency towing see
Roadside Assistance Program (U.S.
and Canada) on page 13‑7 or
Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑9.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-16
Black plate (16,1)
Customer Information
Gather the following information:
Driver name, address, and
telephone number.
Driver license number.
Owner name, address, and
telephone number.
Vehicle license plate number.
Vehicle make, model, and
model year.
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN).
Insurance company and policy
number.
General description of the
damage to the other vehicle.
Choose a reputable repair facility
that uses quality replacement parts.
See “Collision Parts” earlier in
this section.
If the airbag has inflated, see What
Will You See after an Airbag
Inflates? on page 3‑26.
Managing the Vehicle Damage
Repair Process
In the event that the vehicle requires
damage repairs, GM recommends
that you take an active role in its
repair. If you have a pre-determined
repair facility of choice, take the
vehicle there, or have it towed there.
Specify to the facility that any
required replacement collision parts
be original equipment parts, either
new Genuine GM parts or recycled
original GM parts. Remember,
recycled parts will not be covered
by the GM vehicle warranty.
Insurance pays the bill for the repair,
but you must live with the repair.
Depending on your policy limits,
your insurance company may
initially value the repair using
aftermarket parts. Discuss this with
the repair professional, and insist on
Genuine GM parts. Remember,
if the vehicle is leased, you may be
obligated to have the vehicle
repaired with Genuine GM parts,
even if your insurance coverage
does not pay the full cost.
If another party's insurance
company is paying for the repairs,
you are not obligated to accept a
repair valuation based on that
insurance company's collision policy
repair limits, as you have no
contractual limits with that company.
In such cases, you can have control
of the repair and parts choices as
long as the cost stays within
reasonable limits.
Service Publications
Ordering Information
Service Manuals
Service Manuals have the diagnosis
and repair information on the
engines, transmission, axle,
suspension, brakes, electrical,
steering, body, etc.
Service Bulletins
Service Bulletins give additional
technical service information
needed to knowledgeably service
General Motors cars and trucks.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (17,1)
Customer Information
Each bulletin contains instructions
to assist in the diagnosis and
service of the vehicle.
Owner Information
Current and Past Models
Technical Service Bulletins and
Manuals are available for current
and past model GM vehicles.
Owner publications are written
specifically for owners and intended
to provide basic operational
information about the vehicle.
The Owner Manual includes
the Maintenance Schedule for
all models.
ORDER TOLL FREE:
1-800-551-4123 Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Eastern Time
In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio,
Owner Manual, and Warranty
Booklet.
Or write to:
RETAIL SELL PRICE:
$35.00 (U.S.) plus handling and
shipping fees.
For Credit Card Orders Only
(VISA-MasterCard-Discover),
visit Helm, Inc. at:
www.helminc.com.
Helm, Incorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207
Without Portfolio:
Owner Manual only.
Prices are subject to change
without notice and without incurring
obligation. Allow ample time
for delivery.
RETAIL SELL PRICE:
$25.00 (U.S.) plus handling and
shipping fees.
All listed prices are quoted in
U.S. funds. Make checks payable
in U.S. funds.
13-17
Reporting Safety
Defects
Reporting Safety Defects
to the United States
Government
If you believe that your vehicle
has a defect which could cause
a crash or could cause injury or
death, you should immediately
inform the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) in addition to notifying
General Motors.
If NHTSA receives similar
complaints, it may open an
investigation, and if it finds
that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order
a recall and remedy campaign.
However, NHTSA cannot
become involved in individual
problems between you, your
dealer, or General Motors.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-18
Black plate (18,1)
Customer Information
To contact NHTSA, you may
call the Vehicle Safety Hotline
toll-free at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or
write to:
Call Transport Canada at
1-800-333-0510 or write to:
Administrator, NHTSA
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20590
Reporting Safety Defects
to General Motors
You can also obtain other
information about motor
vehicle safety from
http://www.safercar.gov.
In addition to notifying NHTSA
(or Transport Canada) in a
situation like this, please notify
General Motors.
Reporting Safety Defects
to the Canadian
Government
Buick Customer Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33136
Detroit, MI 48232-5136
If you live in Canada, and you
believe that the vehicle has a safety
defect, notify Transport Canada
immediately, and notify General
Motors of Canada Limited.
Transport Canada
Road Safety Branch
80 rue Noel
Gatineau, QC J8Z 0A1
Call 1-800-521-7300, or write:
In Canada, call 1-800-263-3777
(English) or 1-800-263-7854
(French), or write:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Care Centre, Mail Code:
CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Vehicle Data
Recording and
Privacy
This GM vehicle has a number of
sophisticated computers that record
information about the vehicle’s
performance and how it is driven.
For example, the vehicle uses
computer modules to monitor and
control engine and transmission
performance, to monitor the
conditions for airbag deployment
and deploy airbags in a crash, and,
if so equipped, to provide antilock
braking to help the driver control the
vehicle. These modules may store
data to help your dealer technician
service the vehicle. Some modules
may also store data about how you
operate the vehicle, such as rate of
fuel consumption or average speed.
These modules may also retain the
owner’s personal preferences, such
as radio pre-sets, seat positions,
and temperature settings.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (19,1)
Customer Information
Event Data Recorders
This vehicle has an Event Data
Recorder (EDR). The main purpose
of an EDR is to record, in certain
crash or near crash-like situations,
such as an airbag deployment or
hitting a road obstacle, data that
will assist in understanding how a
vehicle's systems performed. The
EDR is designed to record data
related to vehicle dynamics and
safety systems for a short period of
time, typically 30 seconds or less.
The EDR in this vehicle is designed
to record such data as:
How various systems in the
vehicle were operating.
Whether or not the driver and
passenger safety belts were
buckled/fastened.
How far, if at all, the driver was
pressing the accelerator and/or
brake pedal.
How fast the vehicle was
traveling.
This data can help provide a better
understanding of the circumstances
in which crashes and injuries occur.
Important: EDR data is recorded
by the vehicle only if a non-trivial
crash situation occurs; no data is
recorded by the EDR under normal
driving conditions and no personal
data (e.g., name, gender, age, and
crash location) is recorded.
However, other parties, such as law
enforcement, could combine the
EDR data with the type of
personally identifying data routinely
acquired during a crash
investigation.
To read data recorded by an EDR,
special equipment is required, and
access to the vehicle or the EDR is
needed. In addition to the vehicle
manufacturer, other parties, such as
law enforcement, that have the
special equipment, can read the
information if they have access to
the vehicle or the EDR.
13-19
GM will not access this data or
share it with others except: with the
consent of the vehicle owner or,
if the vehicle is leased, with the
consent of the lessee; in response
to an official request by police or
similar government office; as part of
GM's defense of litigation through
the discovery process; or, as
required by law. Data that GM
collects or receives may also be
used for GM research needs or may
be made available to others for
research purposes, where a need is
shown and the data is not tied to a
specific vehicle or vehicle owner.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
13-20
Black plate (20,1)
Customer Information
OnStar®
If the vehicle is equipped with an
active OnStar system, that system
may also record data in crash or
near crash‐like situations. The
OnStar Terms and Conditions
provides information on data
collection and use and is available
at www.onstar.com (U.S.) or
www.onstar.ca (Canada), or by
pressing the Q button and
speaking to an advisor. See OnStar
Overview on page 14‑1 for more
information.
Navigation System
If the vehicle has a navigation
system, use of the system may
result in the storage of destinations,
addresses, telephone numbers, and
other trip information. Refer to the
navigation manual for information
on stored data and for deletion
instructions.
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID)
RFID technology is used in some
vehicles for functions such as tire
pressure monitoring and ignition
system security, as well as in
connection with conveniences such
as key fobs for remote door locking/
unlocking and starting, and
in-vehicle transmitters for garage
door openers. RFID technology in
GM vehicles does not use or record
personal information or link with any
other GM system containing
personal information.
Radio Frequency
Statement
This vehicle has systems that
operate on a radio frequency that
comply with Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
rules and with Industry Canada
Standards RSS‐GEN/210/220/310.
Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
1. The device may not cause
harmful interference.
2. The device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause
undesired operation of the
device.
Changes or modifications to any of
these systems by other than an
authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (1,1)
OnStar
OnStar
OnStar Overview
OnStar Overview
OnStar Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
OnStar Services
Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14-2
14-2
14-2
14-4
14-5
OnStar Additional Information
OnStar Additional
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Push
14-1
X to:
Make a call, end a call,
or answer an incoming call.
Give OnStar Hands-Free Calling
voice commands.
Give OnStar Turn-by-Turn
Navigation voice commands.
Requires the available Directions
and Connections service plan.
If equipped, this vehicle has a
comprehensive, in-vehicle system
that can connect to a live Advisor
for Emergency, Security, Navigation,
Connection, and Diagnostic
Services.
Push Q to connect to a live
Advisor to:
Verify account information or
update contact information.
Overview
The OnStar system status light is
next to the OnStar buttons. If the
status light is:
Get driving directions. Requires
the available Directions and
Connections service plan.
Receive On-Demand
Diagnostics for a check on the
vehicle’s key operating systems.
Receive Roadside Assistance.
Solid Green: System is ready.
Flashing Green: On a call.
Red: Indicates a problem.
Push Q or call 1-888-4-ONSTAR
(1-888-466-7827) to speak
to an Advisor.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
14-2
Black plate (2,1)
OnStar
Push ] to get a priority connection
to an Emergency Advisor available
24/7 to:
Get help for an emergency.
Be a Good Samaritan or
respond to an AMBER Alert.
Get crisis assistance and
evacuation routes.
OnStar Services
Navigation
Emergency
OnStar navigation requires the
Directions and Connections
service plan.
With Automatic Crash Response,
the built-in system can automatically
connect to help in a crash even if
you cannot ask for it.
Push ] to connect to an
Emergency Advisor. GPS
technology is used to identify the
vehicle location and can provide
critical information to emergency
personnel. The Advisor is also
trained to offer critical assistance in
emergency situations.
Security
OnStar provides services like Stolen
Vehicle Assistance, Remote Ignition
Block, and Roadside Assistance,
if the vehicle is equipped with these
services. OnStar can unlock the
vehicle doors remotely, if it is
equipped with automatic door locks,
and can help police locate the
vehicle if it is stolen.
Push Q to receive directions or
have them sent to the vehicle
navigation screen. Destinations can
also be forwarded to the vehicle
from Google Maps™ or
MapQuest.com. The OnStar
mapping database is continuously
updated. Visit www.onstar.com for
coverage maps.
Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation
1. Push Q to connect to a live
Advisor.
2. Request directions.
3. Directions are downloaded to
the vehicle.
4. Follow the voice-guided
commands.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (3,1)
OnStar
Using Voice Commands
During a Planned Route
Cancel Route
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
Say “Cancel route.” System
responds: “Would you like to
cancel route directions to your
destination?”
2. Say “Yes.” System responds:
“OK, route canceled.”
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Route Preview
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Route Preview.” System
responds with the next three
maneuvers.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Repeat
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Repeat.” System responds
with the last direction given, then
responds with “OnStar ready,”
then a tone.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Get My Destination
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Get my destination.”
System responds with miles to
the destination, then responds
with “OnStar ready,” then a tone.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
14-3
Other Navigation Services
Available from OnStar
OnStar eNav: Allows subscribers
to send destinations from Google
Maps™ and MapQuest.com to
their Turn-by-Turn Navigation or
screen-based navigation system.
When ready, the directions will be
downloaded to the vehicle.
Destination Download: Push Q,
then request the Advisor to
download directions to the
navigation system in the vehicle.
After the call ends, push the “Go”
button on the navigation screen to
begin driving directions.
Destinations can also be
downloaded on the go. For
information about eNav, Destination
Download, and coverage maps visit
www.onstar.com.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
14-4
Black plate (4,1)
OnStar
Connections
End a Call
OnStar Hands-Free Calling allows
calls to be made and received from
the vehicle. The vehicle can also
be controlled from a cell phone
through the OnStar mobile app. See
www.onstar.com for coverage maps.
Push X. System responds:
“Call ended.”
Hands-Free Calling
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Dial.” System responds:
“Please say the name or
number to call.”
3. Say the entire number without
pausing, including a “1” and the
area code. System responds:
“OK calling.”
Retrieve My Number
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “My Number.” System
responds: “Your OnStar
Hands-Free Calling number
is number.”
Store a Name Tag for Speed
Dialing
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Store.” System responds:
“Please say the number you
would like to store.”
3. Say the entire number without
pausing. System responds:
“Please say the name tag.”
4. Pick a name tag. “System
responds: ”About to store . Does that sound OK?”
5. Say “Yes” or “No” to try again.
System responds: “OK, storing
.”
Place a Call Using a Stored
Number
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Call .” System
responds: “OK, calling
.”
Verify Minutes and Expiration
Push X and say “minutes” then
“verify” to check how many minutes
remain and their expiration date.
OnStar Mobile App
With an iPhone® or
Android™-based mobile device,
an OnStar mobile app can be
downloaded. The vehicle can be
remote started, if equipped, or
the doors can be unlocked from
anywhere there is cell phone
service. It can also check the fuel
level, tire pressure, and oil life.
It can connect to an OnStar Advisor
anytime. For OnStar mobile app
compatibility or further information,
see www.onstar.com.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (5,1)
OnStar
Diagnostics
OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics will
perform a vehicle check every
month. It will check the engine,
transmission, antilock brakes, and
major vehicle systems. It also
checks the tire pressures, if the
vehicle is equipped with the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System. If a
diagnostics check is needed
between e-mails, push Q, and
an Advisor can run a check.
OnStar Additional
Information
Transferring Service
Push Q to request account transfer
eligibility information. The Advisor
can assist in canceling or removing
account information. If OnStar
receives information that vehicle
ownership has changed, OnStar
may send a voice message to the
vehicle, requesting updated
account information.
Reactivation for Subsequent
Owners
Push Q and follow the prompts to
speak to an Advisor as soon as
possible after acquiring the vehicle.
The Advisor will update vehicle
records and will explain the OnStar
service offers and options available.
14-5
How OnStar Service Works
Automatic Crash Response,
Emergency Services, Crisis Assist,
Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle
Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock,
Roadside Assistance, Turn-by-Turn
Navigation, and Hands-Free Calling
are available on most vehicles. Not
all OnStar services are available
everywhere or on all vehicles. For
more information, a full description
of OnStar services, system
limitations, and OnStar terms and
conditions, see www.onstar.com
(U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada);
contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR
(1‐888‐466‐7827) or
TTY 1‐877‐248‐2080; or
push Q to speak with an Advisor.
OnStar services require a vehicle
electrical system, wireless service,
and GPS satellite technologies to be
available and operating for features
to function properly. These systems
may not operate if the battery is
discharged or disconnected.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
14-6
Black plate (6,1)
OnStar
OnStar service cannot work unless
your vehicle is in a place where
OnStar has an agreement with a
wireless service provider for service
in that area, and the wireless
service provider has coverage,
network capacity, reception, and
technology compatible with OnStar’s
service. Service involving location
information about the vehicle cannot
work unless GPS signals are
available, unobstructed, and
compatible with the OnStar
hardware. OnStar service may not
work if the OnStar equipment is not
properly installed or it has not been
properly maintained. If equipment or
software is added, connected,
or modified, OnStar service may
not work. Other problems beyond
OnStar’s control may prevent
service such as hills, tall buildings,
tunnels, weather, electrical system
design and architecture of the
vehicle, damage to the vehicle in a
crash, or wireless phone network
congestion or jamming.
See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑20 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.
Services for People with
Disabilities
Advisors provide services to help
subscribers with physical disabilities
and medical conditions.
Push
Q for help with:
Locating a gas station with an
attendant to pump gas.
Finding a hotel, restaurant, etc.,
that meets accessibility needs.
Providing directions to the
closest hospital or pharmacy in
urgent situations.
TTY Users
OnStar has the ability to
communicate to the deaf,
hard‐of‐hearing, or speech‐impaired
customers while in the vehicle.
The available dealer‐installed
TTY system can provide in-vehicle
access to all of the OnStar services,
except Virtual Advisor and OnStar
Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation.
Onstar.com
The website provides access to
account information, manages the
OnStar subscription, and allows
viewing of videos of each service.
Get subscription plan pricing
and sign up for OnStar Vehicle
Diagnostics. Click on the
“My Account” tab on the
home page.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (7,1)
OnStar
OnStar Personal Identification
Number (PIN)
A PIN is needed to access some of
the OnStar services, like Remote
Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle
Assistance. You will be prompted
to change the PIN the first time
when speaking with an Advisor.
To change the OnStar PIN, call
OnStar and provide the Advisor with
the current number.
Warranty
OnStar equipment may be
warranted as part of the new-vehicle
limited warranty. The manufacturer
of the vehicle furnishes detailed
warranty information.
Languages
The vehicle can be programmed
to respond in French or Spanish.
Push Q and ask an Advisor.
Advisors can speak French or
Spanish.
Potential Issues
Some OnStar services are disabled
after five days. OnStar cannot
perform Remote Door Unlock or
Stolen Vehicle Assistance after the
vehicle has been off continuously
for five days. After five days, OnStar
can contact Roadside Assistance
and a locksmith to help gain access
to the vehicle.
Global Positioning
System (GPS)
Obstruction of the GPS can
occur in a large city with tall
buildings; in parking garages;
around airports; in tunnels,
underpasses, or parking
garages; or in an area with very
dense trees. If GPS signals are
not available, the OnStar system
should still operate to call
OnStar. However, OnStar could
have difficulty identifying the
exact location.
14-7
In emergency situations, OnStar
can use the last stored GPS
location to send to emergency
responders.
A temporary loss of GPS can
cause loss of the ability to send
a Turn-by-Turn Navigation route.
The Advisor may give a verbal
route or may ask for a call back
after the vehicle is driven into an
open area.
Cellular and GPS Antennas
Avoid placing items over or near the
antenna to prevent blocking cellular
and GPS signal reception. Cellular
reception is required for OnStar to
send remote signals to the vehicle.
Unable to Connect to OnStar
Message
If there is limited cellular coverage
or the cellular network has reached
maximum capacity, this message
may come on. Push Q to try the
call again or try again after driving a
few miles into another cellular area.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
14-8
Black plate (8,1)
OnStar
Vehicle and Power Issues
Privacy
OnStar services require a vehicle
electrical system, wireless service,
and GPS satellite technologies to be
available and operating for features
to function properly. These systems
may not operate if the battery is
discharged or disconnected.
The complete OnStar Privacy
Statement may be found at
www.onstar.com. Privacy-sensitive
users of wireless communications
are cautioned that the privacy of any
information sent via wireless cellular
communications cannot be assured.
Third parties may unlawfully
intercept or access transmissions
and private communications
without consent.
Add-on Electrical Equipment
The OnStar system is integrated
into the electrical architecture of the
vehicle. Do not add any electrical
equipment. See Add-On Electrical
Equipment on page 9‑60. Added
electrical equipment may interfere
with the operation of the OnStar
system and cause it to not operate.
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (1,1)
INDEX
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
Adaptive Forward
Lighting (AFL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Add-On Electrical
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-60
Additional Information,
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Adjustments
Lumbar, Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine . . . . . 10-13
Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Air Filter, Passenger
Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Airbag
Adding Equipment to the
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-32
Airbag System
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-33
How Does an Airbag
Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-26
Passenger Sensing
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-27
What Makes an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-25
What Will You See after an
Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-26
When Should an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-24
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . .3-23
Airbags
Passenger Status Indicator . . .5-15
Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14
Servicing Airbag-Equipped
Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-31
System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-21
Alarm System
Anti-theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
All-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-32
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17, 7-19
Antenna
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-26
i-1
Anti-theft
Alarm System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Alarm System Messages . . . . .5-38
Antilock Brake
System (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Appearance Care
Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-98
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-101
Assistance Program,
Roadside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7, 13-9
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26
CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-26
CD/DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-29
MP3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-32
Audio System
Backglass Antenna . . . . . . . . . . .7-25
Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-24
Theft-Deterrent Feature . . . . . . . . 7-3
Automatic
Climate Control System . . . . . . . . 8-1
Headlamp System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
i-2
Black plate (2,1)
INDEX
Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . 9-29
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-31
Shift Lock Control
Function Check . . . . . . . . . . . 10-26
Auxiliary
Devices . . . . . . . . . . 7-38, 7-41, 7-44
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-25
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . 10-90, 10-93
Load Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Power Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Voltage and Charging
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33
Blade Replacement, Wiper . . . 10-27
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . .
7-57, 7-59,
7-64, 7-70
Brake System Warning Light . . . 5-19
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Antilock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-33
Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-23
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-34
System Messages . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Break-In, New Vehicle . . . . . . . . . 9-15
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal, and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
High Intensity Discharge
(HID) Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
License Plate Lamps . . . . . . . 10-34
Taillamps, Turn Signal,
Stoplamps, and
Back-up Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-60
Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
California
Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . .9-50
Perchlorate Materials
Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Camera, Rear Vision . . . . . . . . . . 9-46
Canadian Vehicle Owners . . . . . . . . iii
Capacities and
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Carbon Monoxide
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-28
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
Cautions, Danger, and
Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26
CD/DVD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
Center Console Storage . . . . . . . . 4-2
Chains, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-64
Charging System Light . . . . . . . . 5-16
Check
Engine Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Ignition
Transmission Lock . . . . . . . . 10-27
Child Restraints
Infants and Young
Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-36
Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . .3-42
Older Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-34
Securing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-50, 3-52
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-39
Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (3,1)
INDEX
Cleaning
Exterior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-98
Interior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-101
Climate Control Systems
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Dual Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5, 5-6
Cluster, Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Collision Damage Repair . . . . . 13-14
Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . 10-89
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34
Compressor Kit,
Tire Sealant . . . . . . . . . .10-67, 10-74
Connections, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . 14-4
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Convenience Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Coolant
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Engine Temperature
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Engine Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Engine Messages . . . . . . . . . . . .5-35
Courtesy Transportation
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34
Cupholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . 13-6
Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4, 13-5
Text Telephone (TTY)
Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-6
Customer Information
Service Publications
Ordering Information . . . . . . 13-16
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1, 13-3
Damage Repair, Collision . . . . . 13-14
Danger, Warnings, and
Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Data Recorders, Event . . . . . . . 13-19
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
i-3
Devices,
Auxiliary . . . . . . . . . . 7-38, 7-41, 7-44
Diagnostics, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Differential, Limited-Slip . . . . . . . 9-39
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Dome Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Door
Ajar Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Power Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Drive Belt Routing, Engine . . . . . 12-4
Drive Systems
All-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-32
Driver Efficiency Gauge . . . . . . . 5-12
Driver Information
Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-25
Driving
Characteristics and
Towing Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-54
Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Drunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
For Better Fuel Economy . . . . .1-27
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . 9-7
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . .9-10
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
i-4
Black plate (4,1)
INDEX
Driving (cont.)
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
Dual Automatic Climate
Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
DVD
Rear Seat Entertainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-47
DVD/CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
Electric Parking Brake Light . . . 5-19
Electrical Equipment,
Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-60
Electrical System
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-40
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Rear Compartment Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42
Emergency, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Check and Service Engine
Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Compartment Overview . . . . . . .10-6
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Coolant Temperature
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Engine (cont.)
Coolant Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Cooling System Messages . . .5-35
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . .12-4
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-28
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-24
Overheated Protection
Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-19
Power Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-36
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Running While Parked . . . . . . . .9-28
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-20
Engine Oil
Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-35
Entry Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Equipment, Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . 13-19
Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Extender, Safety Belt . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Exterior Lamps Off Reminder . . . 6-2
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (5,1)
INDEX
Features
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Filter,
Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . 6-4
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-64
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-104
Fluid
Automatic Transmission . . . . 10-13
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-23
Power Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Fog Lamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Front Fog Lamp
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25
Front Seats
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Heated and Ventilated . . . . . . . .3-10
Front Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-49
Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-50
Filling a Portable Fuel
Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-53
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-52
Fuels in Foreign Countries . . . .9-50
Gasoline Specifications . . . . . . .9-50
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . .5-24
Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-49
Requirements, California . . . . .9-50
System Messages . . . . . . . . . . . .5-36
Fuel Economy
Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-27
Fuses
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-40
Rear Compartment Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42
i-5
Garage Door Opener . . . . . . . . . . 5-46
Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-46
Gasoline
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-50
Gauges
Driver Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
Engine Coolant
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Warning Lights and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
General Information
Service and Maintenance . . . . . 11-1
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-54
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
i-6
Black plate (6,1)
INDEX
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . 6-4
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Head-up Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-29
Headlamps
Adaptive Forward
Lighting (AFL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
High Intensity Discharge
(HID) Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . .5-24
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . 6-2
Heated
Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Heated and Ventilated Front
Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Heater
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-24
Heating and Air Conditioning . . . 8-1
High Voltage Devices and
Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . 5-24
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . 9-7
Hill Start Assist (HSA) . . . . . . . . . 9-36
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . 9-16, 9-18
Ignition Transmission Lock
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Infants and Young Children,
Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . .10-90, 10-93
Key and Lock Messages . . . . . . . 5-36
Keyless Entry
Remote (RKE) System . . . . . . . . 2-3
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (7,1)
INDEX
Labeling, Tire Sidewall . . . . . . . . 10-46
Lamp Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-36
Lamps
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . . 6-3
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Exterior Lamps Off
Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal, and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
License Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-34
Malfunction Indicator . . . . . . . . .5-16
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Sun Visor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
LATCH System
Replacing Parts after a
Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-50
LATCH, Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . . . 3-42
Light
StabiliTrak® OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Lighting
Adaptive Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Lights
Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Brake System Warning . . . . . . .5-19
Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25
Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . .5-19
Engine Coolant
Temperature Warning . . . . . . .5-22
Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Front Fog Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25
High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-24
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . 6-2
Low Fuel Warning . . . . . . . . . . . .5-24
Safety Belt Reminders . . . . . . . .5-14
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-24
Taillamp Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25
i-7
Lights (cont.)
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak® . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Traction Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Limited-Slip Differential . . . . . . . . 9-39
Locks
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Power Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . 5-24
Lower Anchors and Tethers
for Children (LATCH
System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-42
Lumbar Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
i-8
Black plate (8,1)
INDEX
Maintenance
Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-17
Maintenance Schedule
Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-14
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . 5-16
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31
Mass Storage Media (MEM) . . . 7-35
Memory Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Memory Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Messages
Anti-theft Alarm System . . . . . . .5-38
Battery Voltage and
Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33
Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34
Engine Cooling System . . . . . . .5-35
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-35
Engine Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-36
Fuel System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-36
Key and Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-36
Messages (cont.)
Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-36
Object Detection System . . . . .5-37
Ride Control System . . . . . . . . . .5-37
Starting the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . .5-38
Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-39
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-39
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33
Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-40
Mirrors
Automatic Dimming
Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-18
Convex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16
Folding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17
Manual Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17
Park Tilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16
Monitor System, Tire
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-53
MP3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
Navigation
Vehicle Data Recording
and Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-20
Navigation, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Net, Convenience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . 9-15
Object Detection System
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-37
Object Detection, Side Blind
Zone Alert (SBZA) . . . . . . . . . . . 9-44
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Off-Road
Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Oil
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-9
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . 10-12
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-35
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Older Children, Restraints . . . . . 3-34
Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . . . 13-6
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (9,1)
INDEX
OnStar®
Additional Information . . . . . . . .14-5
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-4
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-5
Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-1
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
OnStar® System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Operation, Infotainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
Ordering
Service Publications . . . . . . . . 13-16
Outlets
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Overheated Engine
Protection
Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20
Overheating, Engine . . . . . . . . . . 10-19
Overview,
Infotainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4, 7-6, 7-8
Overview, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Park
Shifting into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-25
Shifting out of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-26
Park Tilt Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Parking
Assist, Ultrasonic . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-42
Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-34
Brake and P (Park)
Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . 10-27
Over Things That Burn . . . . . . .9-27
Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Passenger Compartment Air
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Passenger Sensing System . . . 3-27
Perchlorate Materials
Requirements, California . . . . . 10-3
Personalization
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-40
Phone
Bluetooth . . . . . . . .
i-9
7-57, 7-59,
7-64, 7-70
Power
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16
Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Protection, Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Retained Accessory (RAP) . . .9-25
Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19
Pregnancy, Using Safety
Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Privacy
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . 13-20
Program
Courtesy Transportation . . . . 13-13
Proposition 65 Warning,
California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
i-10
Black plate (10,1)
INDEX
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . . 13-20
Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-20
Radios
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17, 7-19
CD/DVD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-29
Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-24
Satellite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-23
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Rear Seat Entertainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-47
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Rear Vision Camera (RVC) . . . . 9-46
Rearview Mirror
Automatic Dimming . . . . . . . . . . .2-18
Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Recommended
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-49
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14
Records
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-17
Recreational Vehicle
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-95
Reimbursement Program,
GM Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Replacement Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Replacement Parts
Airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-33
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-16
Replacing Airbag System . . . . . . 3-33
Replacing LATCH System
Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . 3-50
Replacing Safety Belt
System Parts after a Crash . . . 3-20
Reporting Safety Defects
Canadian Government . . . . . . 13-18
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . 13-17
Restraints
Where to Put . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-41
Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
Ride Control Systems
Enhanced Traction
System (ETS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-37
Selective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Roads
Driving, Wet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7, 13-9
Roof
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21
Rotation, Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-58
Routing, Engine Drive Belt . . . . . 12-4
Running the Vehicle While
Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (11,1)
INDEX
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-20
Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-19
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . .3-15
Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14
Replacing after a Crash . . . . . .3-20
Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . .3-19
Safety Defects Reporting
Canadian Government . . . . . . 13-18
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . 13-17
Safety Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Safety System Check . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23
Scheduling Appointments . . . . . 13-12
Sealant Kit, Tire . . . . . . .10-67, 10-74
Seats
Adjustment, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Heated and Ventilated
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-10
Lumbar Adjustment, Front . . . . . 3-5
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Power Adjustment, Front . . . . . . 3-5
Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Securing Child
Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-50, 3-52
Security
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-24
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Security, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Selective Ride Control . . . . . . . . . 9-39
Service
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Doing Your Own Work . . . . . . . .10-4
Engine Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Maintenance Records . . . . . . .11-17
Maintenance, General
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
i-11
Service (cont.)
Parts Identification Label . . . . .12-1
Publications Ordering
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16
Scheduling Appointments . . . 13-12
Servicing the Airbag . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31
Shift Lock Control Function
Check, Automatic
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-26
Shifting
Into Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-25
Out of Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-26
Side Blind Zone Alert . . . . . . . . . . 9-44
Signals, Turn and
Lane-Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Spare Tire
Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-89
Specifications and
Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
StabiliTrak
OFF Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-37
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
i-12
Black plate (12,1)
INDEX
Start Assist, Hills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36
Start Vehicle, Remote . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Starter Switch Check . . . . . . . . . 10-26
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
Starting the Vehicle
Messsages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-38
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
Fluid, Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Heated Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Wheel Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Wheel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Storage
Mass Media (MEM) . . . . . . . . . . .7-35
Storage Areas
Center Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Convenience Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . 10-82
Stuck Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10
Sun Visor Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
System
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Taillamp Indicator Light . . . . . . . . 5-25
Taillamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Text Telephone (TTY) Users . . . 13-6
Theft-Deterrent
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14, 2-15
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14
Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5, 5-6
Tires
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-60
Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-64
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Compact Spare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-89
Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-48
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-61
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . 10-64
Inflation Monitor System . . . . 10-54
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-39
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Pressure Monitor System . . . 10-53
Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-58
Sealant and
Compressor Kit . . . . 10-67, 10-74
Sealant and Compressor
Kit, Storing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-82
Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . 10-46
Terminology and
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-49
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
Black plate (13,1)
INDEX
Tires (cont.)
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-62
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-63
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . 10-63
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-45
Towing
Driving Characteristics . . . . . . . .9-54
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-59
General Information . . . . . . . . . .9-54
Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . 10-95
Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57, 9-59
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-94
Traction
Control System (TCS) . . . . . . . .9-36
Control System (TCS)/
StabiliTrak® Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Limited-Slip Differential . . . . . . .9-39
Off Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Selective Ride Control . . . . . . . .9-39
Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57, 9-59
Transmission
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-29
Fluid, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-39
Transportation Program,
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Turn and Lane-Change
Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Turn Signal
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
i-13
Ultrasonic Parking Assist . . . . . . 9-42
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-62
Universal Remote System . . . . . 5-46
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-49
Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-46
Using This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2012
i-14
Black plate (14,1)
INDEX
Vehicle
Canadian Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iii
Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Identification
Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33
Personalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-40
Remote Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-94
Vehicle Care
Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit . . . . . . . 10-82
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51
Vehicle Identification
Service Parts Identification
Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
Ventilation, Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Voltage Devices and
Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Warning
Brake System Light . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Cautions and Danger . . . . . . . . . . . .iv
Hazard Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Wheels
Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-63
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-61
Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-63
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Where to Put the Restraint . . . . 3-41
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-40
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19
Windshield
Wiper/Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Winter
Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
Winter Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-45
Wiper Blade Replacement . . . . 10-27
Wiring, High Voltage
Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35

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