1997 Buick Regal Owners Manual

be covered under your warranty.

If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the underhood emission control label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on and/or your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return to your authorized Buick dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask your service station operator whether or not his fuel contains MMT. General Motors does not recommend the use of such gasolines. If fuels containing MMT are used, spark plug life may be reduced and your emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized Buick dealer for service.

6-4

Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country ourside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. To check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving. You can also write us at the following address for advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

General Motors International Product Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario LlH 8P7

Filling Your Tank

A CA

ION:

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

The tethered cap is behind a hinged door on the left side of your vehicle.

6-5

If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and wait for any “hiss” noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.

Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Buick” in the Index.

While refueling, let the cap hang by the tether below the fuel fill opening. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The cap has a spring in it; if you let go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.

6-6

When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.

NOTICE:

If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and your fuel tank and emissions system may be damaged. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.

Checking Things Under the Yood

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

Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.

Hood Release

To open the hood, first pull the handle inside the vehicle, located just below the instrument panel and to the left of the steering column.

6-8

Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood release. Lift the hood.

When you open the hood on the 3800 (Code K) Engine, you’ll see:

A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir B. Radiator Fill Cap C . Remote Positive Battery Terminal D. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir E. Engine Oil Dipstick

F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick H. Brake Fluid Reservoir I. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank J. Air Cleaner

6-9

When you open the hood of the 3800 (Code 1) Supercharged Engine, you’ll see:

A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir B. Radiator Fill Cap C. Remote Positive Battery Terminal D. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir E. Engine Oil Dipstick 6-10

E Engine Oil Fill Cap G. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick H. Brake Fluid Reservoir I. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank J. Air Cleaner

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly. 3800 Supercharged (Code 1) Engine (If Equipped) Your Buick may have a 3800 Supercharged engine. The supercharger is a device which is designed to pump more air into the engine than it would normally use. This air is mixed with fuel, which creates increased engine power. Since the supercharger is a pump and is driven from an engine accessory drive belt, increased pressure is available at all driving conditions. The powertrain control module (PCM), works with a vacuum control to regulate the increased pressure required during specific driving conditions. When this increased pressure or boost is not desired, such idling and light throttle cruising, the excess air that the supercharger is pumping is routed through a bypass. All of these controls working together provide high performance character and fuel efficiency 3800 Supercharged L67 engine.

as during

in the

-- Engine I

LOW OIL

If the LOW OIL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see “Low Oil Level Light” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder.

It’s a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.

6-11

Checking Engine Qil Pull out the dipstiik and clean it with a paper tuwel or cloth, then push it back iri all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, ;and check the level.

The engine oil dipstick handle is the yellow loop near the front of the engine. Turn off the engine and give the oil a drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.

few minutes to

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When to Add Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index.

NOTICE:

Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged.

Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through. What Kind of Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this Starburst symbol.

If you change your own oil, be sure you use oil that has the Starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. If you have your oil changed for you, be sure the oil put into your engine is American Petroleum Tnstitute certified for gasoline engines.

The engine oil fill cap is located toward the front of the engine near the yellow-looped engine oil dipstick handle.

You should also use the proper viscosity oil for your vehicle, as shown in the following chart:

RECOMMENDED SAE VlSCOSlTI GRADE ENGINE OILS

FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST SAL VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE.

LOOK

FOR MIS SYMBOL

GEl OW-30 PREFERRED abovo 0°F

(-18°C)

SAL sw-30

DO NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED

HOT

WEATHER ‘ O F

‘C‘

+ 100- - t 38

+80- - +27

+ 6 0 - - + 1 6

+ 4 0 - - + 4

+ 2 0 - - - 7

0 - - - 1 8

COLD

WEATHER

6-14

As shown in the chart, SAE 1OW-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 5W-30 if it’s going to be colder than 60 O F ( 14 O C) before your next oil change. When it’s very cold, you should use SAE 5W-30. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50.

NOTICE:

Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.

GM Goodwrench@ oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. If you are in an area where the temperature falls below -20°F (-29”C), consider using either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE OW-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures.

Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Buick dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil If any one of these is true for you, use the short tripkity maintenance schedule:

Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic). Most trips are through dusty areas. You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of your vehicle. The vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxi or other commercial application.

Driving under these conditions causes engine oil to break down sooner. If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months -- whichever occurs first. (See “Change Oil Soon” Light in the Index.)

If none of them is true, use the long trip/highway maintenance schedule. Change the oil and filter every 7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 12 months -- whichever occurs first. Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed engine under highway conditions causes engine oil to break down slower. (See “Change Oil Soon” Light in the Index.) What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.) Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all free-flowing oil from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.

Air Cleaner

To check or replace the air filter, loosen the wing nut on the air duct and lift up on the two clips located on the top of the filter cover, Disconnect the duct and reposition it while removing the side cover.

Operating the engine with the air cleaner off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off.

NOTICE:

If the air cleaner is off, a backfire can cause a engine damaging

fire. dirt can And,

I into your engine, which will damage it. Always

have the air cleaner in place when you’re driving.

easily get

to install the air filter and

Pull out the filter. Be sure install the cover tightly when you are finished. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

6-16

Passenger Compartment Air Filter

The passenger compartment air filter is located underneath your hood just below the windshield wiper arm on the car’s passenger side (underneath the air inlet grill.) The filter traps most of the pollen from the air entering the vehicle. Like your vehicle’s air filter, it may need to be changed periodically. For information on how often to change the passenger compartment air filter, see “Maintenance Schedule” in the Index.

To change the passenger compartment air filter, use the following steps:

1.

2. 3.

4.

5. 6. 7.

8. 9. 10. 11.

12. 13.

Turn off the ignition switch when the windshield wipers are in the up position. Raise the hood. Remove (disconnect) the windshield washer pump hose from the fender rail and air inlet grill. Reposition the hood weatherstrip from the right side of the vehicle (peel back halfway to center). Remove (disconnect) the air inlet grill retainers. Remove (disconnect) the air inlet grill. Remove (disconnect) the passenger compartment air filter. Then install the new air filter. Replace the air inlet grill retainers. Re-position the hood weatherstrip. Reconnect the windshield washer pump hose to the fender rail and air inlet grill. Close the hood. Return the windshield wipers to the park position.

Supercharger Oil Unless you are technically qualified and have the proper tools, you should let your dealer or a qualified service center perform this maintenance. When to Check Check oil level every 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or every 36 months, whichever occurs first. What Kind of Oil to Use See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants’’ in the Index and use only the recommended oil.

How to Check and Add Oil Check oil only when the engine is cold. Allow the engine to cool two to three hours after running.

If you remove the supercharger oil fill plug while the engine is hot, pressure may cause hot oil to blow out of the oil fill hole. You may be burned. Do not remove the plug until the engine cools.

1.

2.

3.

3.

Clean the area around the oil fill plug before removing it. Remove the oil fill plug using a 3/16 inch Allen wrench. The oil level is correct when it just reaches the bottom of the threads of the inspection hole. Replace the oil plug with the O-ring in place. Torque to 88 lb-in (10 N-m).

6-18

Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:

In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher. In hilly or mountainous terrain. When doing frequent trailer towing. Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.

If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Buick dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.

I NOTICE:

Too much or too little fluid can damage your transaxle. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid.

.~ -

6-19

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving:

When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it's colder than 50°F (lO"C), you may have to drive longer.

Checking the Fluid Level 0 Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the

engine running.

0 With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever

in PARK (P).

0 With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P).

6-20

0 Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes. Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:

The automatic transaxle fluid dipstick is the red loop located toward the rear of the engine. 1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or

paper towel.

2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and

then pull it back out: again.

r

3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the

lower level. The fluid level must be.in the cross-hatched area.

4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push

the dipstick back in all the way.

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

If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dimtic1 1. Pull out me alpsnclc. 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the

dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Dun 7 overfill.

NOTICE:

We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-111, because fluid with that label is made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON-111 is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.

3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as

described under “How to Check.”

4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the

dipstick back in all the way.

J

Engine Coolant The cooling s stem in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km) whichever occurs first, if you add only DEX-COOL’ extended life coolant. The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating or if you need to add coolant to your radiator, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index. A 50/50 mixture of water and DEX-COOL@ coolant will: 0 Give freezing protection down to -34 O F (-37 O C). 0 Give boiling protection up to 265 O F ( 129 O C).

Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. 0 Let the warning lights and gages work as

they should.

NOTICE:

When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOL@ (silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the

engine coolant will require change sooner -- at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the use of coolant other than DEX-COOL’ is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.

What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean wnter (preferably distilled) and one-half DEX-COOL@ coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else.

Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of clean water and DEX-COOL@ coolant.

NOTICE:

If you use an improper coolant mix, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.

If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system.

NOTICE:

If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system. These can be harmful.

Checking Coolant

If this light comes on, it means you’re low on engine coolant.

When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the COLD mark or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to the HOT mark or a little higher.

Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it. If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty, add. coolant to the radiator. (See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.)

6-24

. - 7.5,

I ,

Radiator Pressure Cap

I’urning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator.

Never turn the radiator pressure cap -- even a little -- when the engine and radiator are hot.

.. .

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

_ c

Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiator filler neck.

When you replace your radiator pressure cap, an AC@ cap is recommended. Thermostat Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature. When you replace your thermostat, an AC@ thermostat is recommended.

Power Steering Fluid

How To Check Power Steering Fluid When the engine compartment is cool, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.

When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.

6-26

3800 or 3800 Supercharged Engine

When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the HOT mark. If the fluid is at the ADD mark, you should add fluid.

Adding Washer Fluid

What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, see “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants’’ in the Index. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.

Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full.

Brakes Brake Fluid

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

NOTICE:

When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid. Fill your washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. Don’t use radiator antifreeze in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.

6-28

There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

When your brake fluid falls to a warning light will come on. See “Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

low level, your brake

What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme 11 No. 12377967). Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir.

(GM Part

1 CAUTIC

With the wrong kind of fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.

NOTICE:

Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced. Don’t let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See “Appearance Care” in the Index.

Brake Wear Your Buick has four-wheel disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).

The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.

I NOTICE:

~~

Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.

6-30

Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly torque wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM specifications. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. See “Brake System Inspection” in Section 7 of this manual under Part C “Periodic Maintenance Inspections.” Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you apply the brakes, with or without the vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.

Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system -- for example, when your brake linings wear down and you have to have new ones put in -- be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change -- for the worse. The braking performance you’ve come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts. Battery Every new Buick has a Delco Freedom@ battery. You never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedom battery. Get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label.

6-31

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

Bulb Replacement In this section you’ll find directions for changing the bulbs in some of the lamps on your Buick. See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to find the type of bulb you should use.

Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” in the Index for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.

Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods. Also, for your audio system, see “Theft-Deterrent Feature” in the Index.

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.

6-32

Headlamps

1. Pull up on the headlamp retainers to release the

assembly locator tabs.

2. Slide the headlamp assembly out of the slots.

3. Lift the plastic locking tab on the electrical

connector and pull the connector from the headlamp bulb socket.

4. Connect the new headlamp assembly to the wiring

harness, making sure the connector tab snaps into place.

5. Insert the headlamp into the slots in the fascia. 6. Slide the retainers downward until they are fully seated. Front Parking and Tbrn Signal Lamp 1. Remove the headlamp assembly. Refer to the

removal procedure earlier in this section.

2. Remove rubber bulb access cover. 3. Twist and pull the sidemarker lamp socket from the

headlamp assembly.

4. Holding the base of the bulb, pull the bulb from

the socket.

5. Push the new bulb into the socket. 6. Put the socket back into the headlamp assembly and

turn it to the right until it is secure. 7. Replace the rubber bulb access cover.

6-33

Center High-Mounted Stoplamp 1. Open the trunk.

2. Reach through the access opening in the trunk.

3.

4. 5.

6.

Remove the bulb by turning it one-quarter of a turn right to left. Place the new bulb into the bulb socket. Turn the bulb one-quarter of a turn to the right to replace. Close the trunk.

6-34

TaiVStop/Turn Signal Lamp 1. Remove the three plastic wing nuts (A). (Pliers may

be required to remove the wing nuts.)

3.

4. 5.

6. 7.

8.

9. 10.

Squeeze the tab on the socket and turn the socket right to left. Pull out the socket. Pull the bulb out of the socket. (There are two bulbs on each taillamp.) Push in a new bulb. Replace the socket into the housing and turn to the right. Replace the taillamp housing to the body of the vehicle. Install the wing nuts. Tighten the plastic nuts.

2. Pull the taillamp housing away from the body of

the vehicle (B).

Open the trunk lid halfway. Remove the wing nuts (A) from the studs on the applique. (There are eight wing nuts. Pliers may be required to remove them.) Remove the applique from the trunk lid.

Install the new bulbs into the applique sockets (B). Connect the applique to the lid. Reconnect the wing nuts to the studs on the applique and hand-tighten. Close the trunk lid.

3. Then: 1. 2. 3.

Trunk Lid Applique

1. 2.

4.

6-36

Back-up Lamp The back-up lamps are located in the trunk lid applique. (Refer to the trunk lid applique removal procedure earlier in this section for graphic and further instructions.) 1. Remove the trunk lid applique. 2. Twist and pull the back-up lamp socket from the

trunk lid applique.

3. Twist and pull the bulb from the back-up

lamp socket.

To install the new bulb: 1. Twist and push the bulb into the back-up

lamp socket.

2. Twist and push the back-up lamp socket into

the trunk lid applique.

3. Reinstall the trunk lid applique.

Dome Lamp

1. Grasp the front center and rear center positions of the

dome lamp housing and squeeze together until the housing releases from the base plate. A flat-bladed screwdriver may be necessary to pry the assembly loose.

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Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

teplacement blades for your vehicle are 22 inches 56 cm) in length. . Turn the wipers on to the lowest intermittent setting.

2. Lift the plastic locking tab on the electrical

connector and pull the connector from the dome lamp assembly.

3. Grasp the bulb housing located in the center of the

assembly and pull straight up. 4. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 5. Push in a new bulb. 6. Replace the socket into the dome lamp assembly. 7. Reconnect the dome lamp assembly to the wiring harness, making sure the connector tab snaps into place.

8. Reposition the dome lamp assembly to the roof, and

gently push the assembly into the base plate.

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2.

3.

4.

Turn off the ignition while the wipers are at the outer positions of the wiper pattern. The blades are more accessible for removal/replacement while in this position. Pull the windshield wiper arm 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) away from the windshield. While holding the wiper arm away from the glass, push the release clip from under the blade connecting point and pull the blade assembly down toward the glass to remove it from the wiper arm. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm until you hear the release clip “click” into place. For wiper blade replacement length and type, also see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index. Tires Your new Buick comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Buick Warranty booklet for details.

5.

Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.

Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index. Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when your tires are cold. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured or broken by a sudden impact -- such as when you hit a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your tread is badly worn, or if your tires have been damaged, replace them.

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NOTICE: (Continued)

If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you can get the following: 0 Unusual wear Bad handling

0 Rough ride 0 Needless damage from road hazards.

When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa).

sure

Inflation -- Tire The Tire-Loading Information label, which is on the driver’s door edge, above the door latch, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).

NOTICE:

Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation or overinflation is all right. It’s not. If your tires don’t have enough air (underinflation), you can get the following: 0 Too much flexing 0 Too much heat 0 Tire overloading

Bad wear

0 Bad handling 0 Bad fuel economy.

NOTICE: (Continued)

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How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture. Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (10 000 to 13 000 km). Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See “When It’s Time for New Tires” and “Wheel Replacement” later in this section for more information. The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index for scheduled rotation intervals.

When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here. Don’t include the compact spare tire in your tire rotation. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire-Loading Information label. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” in the Index.

Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off. (See “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index.)

When &)s T h e for New Tires

One way to tell’when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining.

You need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: 0 You can see the indicators at three or more places

around the tire.

0 You can see cord or fabric showing through the

tire’s rubber.

6-42

The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deep enough to show cord or fabric.

0 The tire has a bump, bulge or split.

The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that can’t be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage.

Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That way your vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle. If your tires have an all-season tread design, the TPC number will be followed by an “MS” (for mud and snow).

If you ever replace your tires with those not having a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating and construction type (bias, bias-belted or radial) as your original tires.

A CAUTION:

Mixing tires c!!!uld cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle. Be sure to use the same size and type tires on all wheels. It’s all right to drive with your compact spare, though. It was developed for use on your vehicle.

6-43

Uniform Tire Quality Grading The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.) The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires. While the tires available on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these grades, they must also conform to Federal safety requirements and additional General Motors Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half ( 1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate. Traction -- A, B, C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on braking (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction.

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Temperature -- A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure. Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life and best overall performance.

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

6-45

1 Used Replacement Wheels

Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you lose control. You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for replacement.

Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause an accident. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel.

NOTICE:

Tire Chains

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.

If your Buick has P225/60R16 size tires, don’t use tire chains. They can damage your vehicle because there’s not enough clearance.

NOTICE: (Continued)

See “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index for more information.

6-46

NOTICE: (Continued)

Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer’s instructions. To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the device if it’s contacting your vehicle, and don’t spin your wheels. If you do find traction devices that will fit, install them on the front tires. If you have other tires, use tire chains only where legal and only when you must. Use only SAE Class “S” type chains that are the proper size for your tires. Install them on the front tires and tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain manufacturer’s instructions. If you can hear the chains contacting your vehicle, stop and retighten them. If the contact continues, slow down until it stops. Driving too fast or spinning the wheels with chains on will damage your vehicle.

Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything from a container to clean your Buick, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you’re cleaning the inside. Never use these to clean your vehicle:

Gasoline Benzene Naphtha Carbon Tetrachloride Acetone

0 Paint Thinner

Turpentine Lacquer Thinner Nail Polish Remover

They can all be hazardous -- some more than others -- and they can all damage your vehicle, too.

6-47

Using Foam-Qpe Cleaner on Fabric 1. Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. 2. Always clean a whole trim panel or section. Mask

surrounding trim along stitch or welt lines.

3. Mix Multi-Purpose Powdered Cleaner following the

directions on the container label.

4. Use suds only and apply with a clean sponge. Don’t

saturate the material and don’t rub it roughly.

5. As soon as you’ve cleaned the section, use a sponge

to remove the suds.

6. Rinse the section with a clean, wet sponge. 7. Wipe off what’s left with a slightly damp paper towel

or cloth.

8. Dry it immediately with a blow dryer. 9. Wipe with a clean cloth.

Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses, these will damage your vehicle: 0 Alcohol 0 Laundry Soap 0 Bleach

Reducing Agents

Cleaning the Inside of Your Buick Use a vacuum cleaner often to get rid of dust and loose dirt. Wipe vinyl or leather with a clean, damp cloth. Your Buick dealer has two cleaners, a solvent-type spot lifter and a foam-type powdered cleaner. They will clean normal spots and stains very well. Do not use them on vinyl or leather. Here are some cleaning tips: 1. Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. 2. Clean up stains as soon as you can -- before they set. 3. Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains are stubborn.

4. Use solvent-type cleaners in a well-ventilated area

only. If you use them, don’t saturate the stained area.

5. If a ring forms after spot cleaning, clean the entire

area immediately or it will set.

Using Solvent-vpe Cleaner on Fabric First, see if you have to use solvent-type cleaner at all. Some spots and stains will clean off better with just water and mild soap. If you need to use a solvent: 1.

Gently scrape excess soil from the trim material with a clean, dull knife or scraper. Use very little cleaner, light pressure and clean cloths (preferably cheesecloth). Cleaning should start at the outside of the stain, “feathering” toward the center. Keep changing to a clean section of the cloth. When you clean a stain from fabric, immediately dry the area with a blow dryer to help prevent a cleaning ring.

2.

3. 4.

Special Cleaning .oblems Greasy or Oily Stains Stains caused by grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoe polish, coffee with cream, chewing gum, cosmetic creams, vegetable oils, wax crayon, tar and asphalt can be removed as follows: 1. Carefully scrape off excess stain. 2. Follow the solvent-type instructions described earlier. Shoe polish, wax crayon, tar and asphalt will stain if left on a vehicle’s seat fabric. They should be removed as soon as possible. Be careful, because the cleaner will dissolve them and may cause them to spread.

Non-Greasy Stains Stains caused by catsup, coffee (black), egg, fruit, fruit juice, milk, soft drinks, wine, vomit, urine and blood can be removed as follows: 1. Carefully scrape off excess stain, then sponge the

soiled area with cool water.

2. If a stain remains, follow the foam-type instructions

described earlier.

3. If an odor lingers after cleaning vomit or urine, treat the area with a waterhaking soda solution: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of baking soda to 1 cup (250 ml) of lukewarm water.

4. If needed, clean lightly with solvent-type cleaner. Combination Stains Stains caused by candy, ice cream, mayonnaise, chili sauce and unknown stains can be removed as follows: 1. Carefully scrape off excess stain. 2. Clean with cool water and allow to dry. 3. If a stain remains, clean it with solvent-type cleaner. Cleaning Vinyl Use warm water and a clean cloth.

Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You may have to do it more than once. Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if you don’t get them off quickly. Use a clean cloth and a vinyl/leather cleaner. See your dealer for this product .

Cleaning Leather Use a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap or saddle soap and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Then, let the leather dry naturally. Do not use heat to dry.

For stubborn stains, use a leather cleaner. See your dealer for this product.

0 Never use oils, varnishes, solvent-based or abrasive cleaners, furniture polish or shoe polish on leather.

0 Soiled or stained leather should be cleaned

immediately. If dirt is allowed to work into the finish, it can harm the leather.

Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel Use only mild soap and water to clean the top surfaces of the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones or waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions.

6-50

Cleaning the Built-in Child Restraint Your built-in child restraint may be cleaned with mild soap and lukewarm water. Don’t use household cleaners. They may weaken the harness or damage plastic parts. The built-in child restraint pad is attached to the child restraint cushion and seatback with fastener strips. You can remove the pad, machine wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle and tumble dry it on a low heat setting. Never bleach or iron the pad, and don’t dry clean it. Care of Safety Belts and Built-in Child Restraint Harness Keep the safety belts and the built-in child restraint harness clean and dry.

Cleaning Glass Surfaces Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner (GM Part No. 1050427) or a liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. Don’t use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they may cause scratches. Avoid placing decals on the inside rear window, since they may have to be scraped off later. If abrasive cleaners are used on the inside of the rear window, an electric defogger element may be damaged. Any temporary license should not be attached across the defogger grid.

Do not bleach or dye safety belts or the built-in child restraint harness. If you do, they may be severely weakened. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean the safety belts and the child restraint harness only with mild soap and lukewarm water.

6-51

A m i @

Powder (non-scratching glass

Cleaning the Outside of the Windshield and Wiper Blades If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running, wax, sap or other material may be on the blade or windshield. Clean the outside of the windshield with GM Windshield Cleaner, Bon cleaning powder), GM Part No. 105001 1. The windshield is clean if beads do not form when you rinse it with water. Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades and affect their performance. Clean the blade by wiping vigorously with a cloth soaked in full-strength windshield washer solvent. Then rinse the blade with water. Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary; replace blades that look worn. Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required. (See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.)

Cleaning the Outside of Your Buick The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth of color, gloss retention and durability. Washing Your Vehicle The best way to preserve your vehicle’s finish is to keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water. Don’t wash your vehicle in the direct rays of the sun. Don’t use strong soaps or chemical detergents. Use liquid hand, dish or car washing (mild detergent) soaps. Don’t use cleaning agents that are petroleum based, or that contain acid or abrasives. All cleaning agents should be flushed promptly and not allowed to dry on the surface, or they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting. High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle.

Cleaning Exterior LampsLenses Use lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a liquid hand, dish or car washing (mild detergent) soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under “Washing Your Vehicle.”

6-52

Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your Buick by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.) Your Buick has a “basecoatklearcoat” paint finish. The clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are non-abrasive and made for a basecoatklearcoat paint finish.

NOTICE:

Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoatklearcoat paint finish may dull the finish or leave swirl marks.

Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage your vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible.

If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period of years. You can help to keep the paint finish looking new by keeping your Buick garaged or covered whenever possible. Cleaning Aluminum or Chrome Wheels (If Equipped) Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then be applied. The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted surface of your vehicle. Don’t use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners or abrasive cleaning brushes on them because you could damage the surface. You may use chrome polish on chrome wheels, but avoid any painted surface of the wheel, and buff off immediately after application. Don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car wash that has silicon carbide tire cleaning brushes. These brushes can also damage the surface of these wheels.

Cleaning Tires To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner.

NOTICE:

When applying a tire dressing always take care to wipe off any overspray or splash from all painted surfaces on the body or wheels of the vehicle. Petroleum-based products may damage the paint finish.

Sheet Metal Damage If your vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to the parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Finish Damage Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode quickly and may develop into a major repair expense. Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-up materials available from your dealer or other service outlets. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your dealer’s body and paint shop.

6-54

Underbody Maintenance Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan and exhaust system even though they have corrosion protection. At least every spring, flush these materials from the underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mud and other debris can collect. Dirt packed in closed areas of the frame should be loosened before being flushed. Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can do this for you.

Chemical Paint Spotting Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on your vehicle. This damage can take two forms: blotchy, ringlet-shaped discolorations, and small irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface. Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Buick will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of purchase, whichever occurs first.

Appearance Care Materials Chart

6-56

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

r r

E N G I N E A 9 9 7 f CODE MODEL

YEAR

ASSEMBLY PLANT

This is the legal identifier for your Buick. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts labels and the certificates of title and registration.

Engine Identification The 8th character in your VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your engine, specifications and replacement parts. Service Parts Identification Label You’ll find this label on the deck lid. It’s very helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label is:

your VIN, the model designation, paint information and

e a list of all production options and special equipment. Be sure that this label is not removed from the vehicle.

Electrical System Add-on Electrical Equipment

I NOTICE:

Don’t add anything electrical to your Buick unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Some add-on electrical equipment can keep other components from working as they should.

Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your Buick, see “Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick” in the Index.

Headlamp Wiring The headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker in the underhood electrical center. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to go on and off, or in some cases to remain off. If this happens, have your headlamp system checked right away. Windshield Wipers The windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuit breaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavy snow, etc., the wiper will stop until the motor cools. If the overload is caused by some electrical problem, have it fixed. Power Windows and Other Power Options Circuit breakers in the fuse panel protect the power windows and other power accessories. When the current load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting the circuit until the problem is fixed.

6-58

Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers and fusible thermal links in the wiring itself. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating.

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

Some fuses are in a fuse block on the passenger’s side of the instrument panel. Pull off the cover labeled FUSES to expose the fuses.

Circuit Breaker Description

Tire Inflation Monitor Reset Button Power Windows/Sunroof Rear Defog Power Seats

6-59

Description Ignition Key Solenoid Ignition Signal -- Hot in Run and Start -- PCM, BCM U/H Relay Power Mirrors Panel Dimming Ignition Signal -- Hot in Run, Unlock and Start -- Cluster, Powertrain Control Module, Body Control Module DRL Module Interior Lamps Door Locks Taillamps, License Lp Radio Heated Mirror Cruise Control Clusters Cigarette Lighter -- Auxiliary Power Connection, Data Link Stoplamps Parklamps, Fog Lamps Auxiliary Power Connection -- Hot in ACC and Run

Fuse

10

13 14 15 17 18 19 20 22 23

24 26 27

6-60

Fuse 28

29 30 31 32

33 34 36

37 38 39 40 41

42 43 44 45

Description Crank Signal -- Body Control Module, Cluster, Powertrain Control Modules Ignition Signal -- HVAC Control Head Shifter Lock Solenoid Air Bag Anti-lock Brake Controls, Body Control Module Hazard Flashers Driver’s Heated Seat Ignition Signal -- Hot in ACC and Run -- Body Control Module Anti-lock Brake Solenoids Low Blower Anti-lock Brakes Turn Signals, Cornering Lamps Radio, HVAC head, Keyless En CEL TEL High Blower Passenger’s Heated Seat Steering Wheel Controls Wipers

ltry, Clus ; ter,

Underhood Electrical Center -- Passenger’s Side Some fuses and relays are in the underhood electrical center on the passenger’s side of the engine compartment.

Fuse

11

Description Cooling Fan Starter Solenoid Power Seats, Rear Defog, Heated Seats Starter Solenoid

Fuse

Relay

10 11 12 13 14

Description High Blower, Hazard Flasher, Stoplamps, Power Mirror, Door Locks Ignition Switch, BTSI, Stoplamps, ABS, Turn Signals, Cluster, Air Bag, DRL Module Cooling Fan Interior Lamps, Retained Accessory Power, ABS, Keyless Entry, CEL TEL, Data Link, HVAC Head, Cluster, Radio, AUX Power, Cigarette Lighter Ignition Switch, Wipers, Radio, Steering Wheel Controls, Body Control Module, AUX Power, Power Windows, Sunroof, HVAC Controls, DRL, Rear Defog Relay Description Cooling Fan 2 Cooling Fan 3 Starter Solenoid Cooling Fan 1 Ignition Main Not Used

6-61

Fuse 15 Relay 16 17 Fuse 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Description A/C Clutch Description Horn Fog Lamps Description Fuel Pump, Speed Control - Regal Only Fuel Pump Air Pump Generator ECM A/C Compressor Clutch Not Used Electronic Ignition Transaxle Horn Fuel Injector

Fuse 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43

SYMBOL

Description Oxygen Sensor Engine Emissions Not Used Headlamp (Right) Rear Compartment Release Parklamp Fuel Pump Headlamp (Left) Spare Spare Spare Spare Spare Spare Fuse Puller A/C Compressor Clutch Diode

Number

Bulb

Number

Bulb

Replacement Bulbs Lamps

Exterior Back-up .............................. 1156 Center High-Mounted Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 155 . . . . . . . . . . . 4 157NAK Front Parking/Turn Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9005 Headlamp, High Beam Headlamp, Low Beam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9006 Sidemarker, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194 Sidemarker, Rear ........................ 194 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3057 Stop/Tail/Turn Signal Tail (Applique) ......................... 194 Lamps Interior

Dome Lamp

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

9425542

Capacities and Specifications Automatic nansaxle

Pan Removal and

Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.4 quarts (7.0 L) When drainingheplacing converter; more fluid m y be needed. Cooling System Including Reservoir 3.8L (Code 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.3 quarts (1 1.65 L) 3.8L (Code K) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.3 quarts (1 1.65 L) Refrigerant (R=134a),

Air Conditioning*

. . . . . . . . . . 1.88 lbs. (0.85 kg)

*See “Air Conditioning Refrigerants”1ater in this section. Engine Crankcase Oil and Filter Change . . . . . . . . . . . 5 quarts (4.7 L) Wheel Nut Torque . . . . . . . . . . 100 lb-ft (140 N-m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 gallons (64 L) Fuel Tank Wiper Blade Lengths Type ................................. Hook Length ..................... 22 inches (56 cm)

Note: All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level, as recommended in this manual. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ” in the Index.

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Engine Specifications

Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Displacement ....................... Firing Order ........................ Thermostat Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Horsepower ........................

3.8L (Code 1)

3.8L (Code K)

V6

231 CID 1-6-5-4-3-2 195°F (91°C) 240 @ 5200

V6

231 CID

1-6-5-4-3-2 195°F (91°C) 195@5200

Vehicle Dimensions Wheelbase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109.0 inches (276.9 cm) Tread (Front) ............. 6 1.5 inches ( 156.2 cm) Tread (Rear) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.0 inches (154,9 cm) Overall Length . . . . . . . . . . . 194.5 inches (494.0 cm) Overall Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73.0 inches (185.4 cm) Overall Height . . . . . . . . . . . . 56.5 inches (143.5 cm)

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Air Conditioning Refrigerants Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If you’re not sure, ask your Buick dealer.

Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A 1208C Passenger Compartment Air Filter . . . . 10261 703 Battery

3.8L (Code 1) ...................... 3.8L (Code K) ......................

770 CCA 690 CCA

Engine Oil Filter

All Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PF47

PCV Valve

All Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CV892C

Radiator Cap

All Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RC27 RKE Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Type CR2032 (2) Spark Plugs

3.8L (Code 1) ........................

41-921 Gap: 0.060 inches (1.52 mm) .41-921 Gap: 0.060 inches (1.52 mm)

3.8L (Code K) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b NOTES

Section 7 Maintenance Schedule

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

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