1997 Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual
1997 Buick LeSabre Manual
1997 Buick LeSabre manual content summary:
- 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 1
- 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 2
- 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 3
2-1 The 1997 Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. T also explains the "SRS" system. t Features and Controls This section explains how to start and operate your Buick. 3- 1 4- 1 Comfort Controls and Audio - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 4
certification. G[ENERALMOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, B UIC the BUICK Emblem and the name LESABRE are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. 1 WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH Nahonal lnstltute for This manual includes the latest information at the time it was - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 5
iii - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 6
&tee. its beginnings t 1903. That was the year the o compmy was reorganized, refinzmceda d moved from Detroit to Flint. Buick has always been a product innovator. Buick engineers developed the William C . (Billy)Durant iv - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 7
to complete a 1,000-mile Chicago-to-New York race in 1906. And a Buick was the first car to travel across South America, driven from Buenos Aires,Argentina, over the Andes to Santiago, Chilein 1914. I I Buick drew plenty of attention because it could climb hills and run through mud like no other - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 8
high-compression V-8 engine was introduced in 1953. And Buick's famous vertical pillar "toothy" grille (introduced in1942)became more massive in the post-war era. 1953 Skylark 1949 Roadmaster Motor Trend magazine named the 1962 Buick Special V-6 "Car of the Year." The first production engine was - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 9
Our mission is simple: "Buick will provide Premium American Motorcars backed with services that exceed our customers' expectations, throughout the purchase, ownership, service and repurchase experience." Buicks are SUBSTANTIAL. Buicks are DISTINCTIVE. Buicks are POWERFUL. Buicks are PREMIUM. vii - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 10
do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you'll find that pictures and words work together to Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It's an alphabetical list of all that's in the manual, and - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 11
your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, might see you CAUTION and NOTICE warningsin different colors or in different words. You'll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 12
original battery: CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING CAUSTIC FASTEN SEAT BELTS passengers whenever your vehicle is driven: These symbols have to do with your lamps: These symbols are on some of your controls: WINDSHIELD WIPER These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 13
find information about the seats in your Buick and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. 1-2 1-5 1-10 1-11 1-1 1 1-18 1-19 1-19 1-25 Seats and Seat Controls Safety Belts: They'refor Everyone Here Are Questions - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 14
Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat You can lose controlof the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver's seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 15
of the seat by pushing the left side of the switch. Push the right side of the switch to lower the front of the seat. Center Control: Move the seat forward or backward by pushing the control on the front or back. Raise the seat by pushing the control on the left. Lower the seat - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 16
Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback, lift the lever the outer side of on the seat and move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock theseatback. Pull up on the lever and - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 17
belt properly. Safety Belts: They're for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), or air bag system. A CAUTION: Don't let anyone ride - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 18
than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ...a lot! I 1-6 Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See "Safety Belt Reminder Light" in the Index.) Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 19
I Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's justa seat on wheels. Put someone on it. 1-7 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 20
Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop. The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... 1-8 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 21
or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow downas the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take forces. That's why the safety belts make suchgood sense. 1-9 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 22
control, such as bad drivers. m of Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 k ) home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone. Q: A: If my vehiclehas air bags, why shouldI have to wear safety belts? Air - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 23
Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies.If a child will be riding inyour Buick, see the part of this manual called "Children." Follow - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 24
bones. And you'd less llkely to slide under the lap belt.If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries.The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts the of body are best able to take - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 25
Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. 1 ~ To move . Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not fallingoff your shoulder. 1-12 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 26
wrong with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body. A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won't give nearly as much protection this way - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 27
is buckled in the wrong place like this. a crash, In the belt would goup over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place. 1-15 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 28
under your arm. aIn crash, your body would movetoo far forward, whichwould increase the chanceof head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren't as strong shoulder bones. as You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 29
What's wrong with this? You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt.In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt twisted, is or make it straight so it can work properly, ask your dealer tofix it. J I A: The belt is twisted across the body. 1-17 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 30
are more likely to be seriously injured if they don't wear safety belts. To unlatch the belt, just push button on the buckle. the The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the you way. If you slam the door on - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 31
part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system. Your Buick has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren't wearing your safety belt even if you -a have air bags - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 32
problem. See "Air Bag Readiness Light" in the Index for more information. An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called "Children" and the caution label on the right front passenger - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 33
How the Air Bag System Works The right front passenger's air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side. Where are the air bags? The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. 1-21 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 34
a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 35
protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. Theservice manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. 0 What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 36
. Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick Air bags affect how your Buick should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don't want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your Buick dealer and the LeSabre Service Manual - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 37
Center Passenger Position Lap Belt If your vehicle has front and rearbench seats, someone can sit in the center positions. When you sit in a center seatingposition, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. 1-25 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 38
. Rear passengers who aren't safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. To make the belt shorter, pull its freeend as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 39
Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions nextto the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here's how to wear one properly. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don't let it get twisted. 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 40
the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 41
is too loose. In a crash, you wouldmove forward The too much, which could increase injury. shoulder belt should yourfit against body. -1 1-29 The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 42
have outgrown who child restraints and for small adults. Wheninstalled on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the away belt from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position in belt the rear seat. To provide added safety comfort for children who have outgrown - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 43
out from between the edge of the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip. CI 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 44
3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elasticcord must be under thebelt and the guide on top. 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in "Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions" earlier inthis section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 45
and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint.The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the righttype and size for your child. A very young child's hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, thebelt - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 46
) force on would be almost impossible your arms. The baby to hold. Secure the babyin an infant restraint. ~~ Never hold a baby in your armswhile riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can't holdit. For example,in a crash CAUTION - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 47
the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions the restraintitself or in a on booklet, or both. Theserestraints use the belt the front passenger seat.Here's why: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be air seriously injuredif the right front passenger's bag inflates. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 48
restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured the right front passenger by air bagif it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Buick dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 49
be using the lap-shoulderbelt. See the earlier part about the top strap the child restraint has if one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. 4. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the if needed. belt If the shoulder belt goes front of the child's face or in - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 50
be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 6. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 51
front passenger seat, but only with the seat moved all the way back. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 52
6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt. Tt will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. 5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 53
the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child's face or neck, put it behind the child restraint. 1 A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger's air bag inflates. This is because - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 54
5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 6. P l the rest of the lap belt all theway out of the ul retractor to set the lock. 1-42 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 55
sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle's safety - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 56
child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is the child's on shoulder, so that in a crash.thechild's seat outside position, see "Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides" in the Index. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child's - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 57
: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part behind is the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash thechild might slide under the belt. The belt's force would then be applied right on the child's abdomen. That could cause - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 58
. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. If an air bag inflates, you'll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section. Torn or - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 59
& NOTES 1-47 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 60
,@% NOTES 1-48 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 61
and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Buick, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 62
Keys Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don't leave the keys in a vehicle with young children. 2-2 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 63
keys are for the ignition only. When a new LeSabre is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the and all other locks. NOTICE: ~ ~~~ ~~ Your Buick has a number of features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 64
unlock it. Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children can easily open the doors and fall if the doors aren't locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far setting off the alarm. To lock the door from the inside, slidethe lock control on the doordown. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 65
lock or unlock all the doors of your vehicle using the driver's or front passenger's door lock switch. Memory Door Locks (If Equipped) Close your- doors need to lock your doors before shifting out of PARK (P),just u e the manual or power lock button to lock the doors. The switch on each rear door - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 66
Personal Choice Programming If your vehicle is equipped with remote keyless entry, you can program the memory door locks feature to change to the following modes: Use the following procedure to change modes: 1. Close all doors and turn the ignition on. Keep all doors closed throughout this - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 67
Delayed Locking (If-Equipped) This feature letsthe driver delay the actual locking of the vehicle. When the power door lock switch is pressed with the key removed from the ignition, and the driver's door open, a chimewill sound three times to signal that delayed locking is active. When all doors - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 68
Security Lock Your LeSabre is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear outside. ' A I If you don't cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear seat won't be able to open the rear door from the inside. You should - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 69
and with Industry and Science Canada. Remote Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk the FCC Rules. at Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 70
transmitter to work, try this: Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions that follow. Check the distance. You may be too andtry again. If you're still having trouble, see your Buick dealer or a qualified technician for service. All doors will lock when LOCK is - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 71
horn chirps when locking; exterior lamps flash when unlocking vehicle. Personal Choice Features The following list of features that are available onyour LeSabre can be programmed to the driver's preference for each of the key transmitters. 0 Memory Door Locks: This feature programs your door locks - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 72
Lighting: When the UNLOCK button on the key transmitter is pressed, the headlamps, parking lamps, back-up lampsand cornering lamps will turn on. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery time to change the battery. 0 For more detailed information and programming instructions, refer to the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 73
is separated, use a pencil to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. 3. Remove and replace the battery. Replace it as the instructions inside the cover indicate. Remote Trunk Release - 4. make sure the remote trunk release lockout switch in the glove box is in the on position. 2-13 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 74
your vehicle. See "Comfort Controls'' in the Index. If you have air outlets on under the or instrument panel, open them the way. all See "Engine Exhaust" in the Index. To secure the trunk, turn off the TRUNK RELEASE, lock the glove box, then take the door key with you. Now the trunk - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 75
cities. Although your Buick has a number of like your trunk or glove box. Lock the glove box. Turn off the TRUNK RELEASE lockout in the glove box. 0 Key in the Ignition entry transmitter with you. Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, closeall windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 76
Buick has this option, it has a theft-deterrent alarm system. With this system, the SECURITY light will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off). SECURITY This light to save battery power. Remember, the theft-deten-ent system won't activate you if lock the doors with a key manual door - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 77
out of the vehicle, close the door and wait for the SECURITY in. light togo out. Then reach through thewindow, unlock the door with the manual door lock and open the door. This should setoff the alarm. If the alarm does not sound when it should, check'to see if the horn works. The - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 78
you don't have to wait three minutes before trying another ignition key. See your Buick dealer ora locksmith who can service the PASS-Key I1 to have a new key made. If you're everdriving and the SECURITY light turns on and stays on, you will be able torestart your engine if you turn - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 79
Your modern Buick doesn't in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake the switch to five different positions. C -- -- ACCESSORY (A): The accessory position lets you use things like the radio and - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 80
key ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service. OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn can use RUN to operate your electrical power accessories and to display some instrument panel warning lights. START (E): This position starts your engine. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 81
between each try to help avoid draining your battery. 1 NOTICE: Don't try to shift to PARK (P) if your Buick is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped. 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 82
, check with your dealer. If you don't, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual thattells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See "Towing Your Vehicle" in the Index. Engine Coolant Heater (Option) In very cold weather - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 83
was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don't, it could be damaged. How list everything here, we ask that you contact your Buick dealer in the area where you'll be parking 110-volt AC outlet. I Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 84
the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Buick has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your into the gear you wish. See "Shifting Out of PARK (P)" in this part. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 85
km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. - u 1IC'i: - Shifting outof PARK (P) or NEUTRAL(N) while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot firmly on the is brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 86
fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you if you stop when going uphill, don't hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the (P) transaxle. Use your brakes or shift - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 87
approximately 40 feet (12.2 m) with the parking brake on, the brake light stays on and a chime sounds until you release the parking brake. I can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle. If you are towing a trailer and - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 88
Shifting Into PARK (P) 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this: /h CAU ION: It can be dangerous to get of your vehicle if out is the shift lever not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. Your vehiclecan roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 89
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running It can be dangerous to leave vehicle with your the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift leveris not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly And, if you set. leave the vehicle with the engine running,it could You overheat - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 90
of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transaxle, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your Buick has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brake hefor-c you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 91
Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Things mat can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite.Don't park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. Engine exhaust can kill. It contains thegas - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 92
parking on a hill and if you're pulling a trailer, also see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under "Engine Exhaust"). Also, idling in a closed-in place can deadly - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 93
, pull the switch back and quickly release it. To raise the window, hold the switch forward. Window Lock Press the LOCK switch on the driver's armrest to disable all passenger window switches. The driver's window controls will still be operable. This is a useful feature when you have children as - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 94
toward you. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place. The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: 0 0 Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer and Passing Signal Windshield Wipers Windshield - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 95
you signal a turn or a lane change, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won'tsee your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don't go on at all when you To signal a turn, move the lever all the way - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 96
high beam or high beam to low beam, pull the turn signal lever toward you and release it. When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel will also be on. Windshield Wipers The windshield wipers are controlled by turning the band marked WIPER. 2-36 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 97
. To stop the wipers, move the band toOFF. The wiper speedmay be set for a long short delay or between wipes. This canbe very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay The time. closer toLO, the shorterthe delay. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 98
/h) or more without keepingyour foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. I Cruise control can be dangerous where you can't drive safely a steady speed.So, at don't use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 99
it. you Once you're going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switchfrom ON to WA (resume/accelerate) for abouthalf a second. I If you leave your cruise control switch on when you're not using cruise, you might hita button and go into cruisewhen you don't want - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 100
the SET button for less than half a second. Each time you do this, you'll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 101
the brake pedal; or Move the cruise switch to OFF. 0 Erasing Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased. Press the LIGHTS switch to turn on the headlamps. Press it again to turn them off. When the headlamps are turned on - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 102
the manual conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. A light sensor on top of the instrument panel monitors the exterior light exterior lighting at night when you are parked, turn o f f the headlamps and move the twilight sentinel control all - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 103
three minutes after you turn off your engine. As you move the control toward MIN, the lamps will turn off more quickly when you turn few seconds to three minutes. Your twilight sentinel and daytime running lamps work with the light sensor on top of the instrument panel. Don't cover it up. If you - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 104
Control Courtesy Lamps When any door is opened, several lamps go on. They make it easy for you to enter and leave the vehicle. You can also turn these lamps on by sliding the PANEL LIGHTS feature is designed to help eliminate battery wear down. Delayed Exit Lighting With this feature, the interior - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 105
. Personal Choice Programming This feature canbe programmed in the on or off mode for each transmitter. To turn the feature off: 3. Press the instant alarm on the transmitter again. Perimeter lighting is now enabled and the horn will chirp two times. 4. Release the door lock switch. The perimeter - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 106
Front Reading Lamps (If Equipped) Front seat reading lamps areturned on or off by pressing the LAMP switch. Rear Reading Lamps(If Equipped) The lamp, switch and a coat hanger are above each rear door. Slide the switch turn the lampon or off. to 2-46 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 107
, glove box and visor vanity mirror lamps, if any are left on for more than 10 minutes when the ignition is OFF. This will keep your battery from running OFF. If you do this, the exterior lamps will stay on until you manually turn them off. If the feature is enabled for the interior and exterior - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 108
Day/Night Manual Rearview Mirror With Integral Reading Lamps (If Equipped) Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror (If Equipped) Your Buick may have an automatic electrochromic day/night rearviewmirror. This mirror automatically changes to reduce glare from headlamps behindyou. A photocell on the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 109
rapid changing of the mirror as you drive under lights and through traffic. I The outside rearview mirror should be adjusted so you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable drivingposition. To adjust your passenger's side mirror, sit in the driver's seat and have - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 110
Day/Night Rearview Mirror'' earlier in this section. Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger's side mirror is convex. A convex mirror's surface is curved so you can see more from the driver's seat. Move the switch in the middle of the control to choose the right or left mirror. Push the arrow - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 111
your shoulder before changing lanes. Center Console CupholdedCoinholder Storage Compartments Glove Box Use the door key to lock and unlock the gloveTo box. open, lift the latch release on the left side glove of the box door. The armrest between the front seats opens into storage a area. To open it - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 112
ashtrays may be removed for cleaning. Hold the sides of the ashtray and then pull the ashtray up and out. NOTICE: Don't put papers or other flammable objects into your ashtrays the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net. It can help keep them from falling over - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 113
Mirrors (If Equipped) Each sunvisor has two parts,so that both the windshield and door glass can be shaded sametime. There is at the also a tinted transparent extension that may be pulled out from the outer sun visor. When you open the cover to either passenger's or the tr driver's visor vanity - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 114
Instrument Panel 2-54 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 115
Outlet 10. Glove Box 11. Climate Control System 12. Ashtray and Cigarette Lighter 13. Ignition Switch 14. Driver's Side SRS (Air Bag) and Horn 2. Instrument Panel Intensity Control 3. Twilight Sentinel 4. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever 5. Tilt Steering Wheel Lever ti. Instrument Cluster/Gages - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 116
you're going, how much fuel you're using, and many other things you'll need to drive safely and economically. Your Buick is equipped with one of these instrument panel clusters, which includes indicator warning lights and gages that are explained on the following pages. Q Standard Cluster 2-56 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 117
8 8 l8 0 0 0 On0 000 0 I Gage Cluster 2-57 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 118
(km/h). Your odometer showshow far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). Your Buick has a tamper resistant odometer. If you see bright silver lines between the numbers, you'll know that someone has probably tried to turn it back - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 119
gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual's advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They're abig help. Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 120
properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away. The air bag readiness light should flash for afew seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn't comeon then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. AIR BAG AIR BAG Standard Cluster Gage Cluster - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 121
gage shows voltage in the electrical system. 8 18 VOLT If the light stays on, you need service and you should take your Buick to the dealer at once. To save your battery until you get there, turn off all accessories and set your climate control system OFF. to The normal range is 1 1 to 15 volts - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 122
Brake System Warning Light Your Buick's hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn't working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well, If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake problem. Have your brake - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 123
while you're driving, your Buick needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn't on, you still have brakes, but you don't have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don't have anti-lock brakes and there's a problem with your regular brakes. See - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 124
your brakes cool down. I TRACTION OFF If it stays on, or comes on when you're driving, there may be a problem with your traction control system and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. If the traction - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 125
is too hot! TEMP If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn the engine off as soon as possible. In the section "Problems on the Road," this manual explains what to do. See "Engine Overheating"in the Index. That - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 126
any malfunction. Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service is required. Light On Steady -- An emission control system malfunction - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 127
stalling after start-up, stalling when put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation acceleration on or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions maygo away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on. If you experience one or more of these - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 128
to warn you if something goes wrong. But, when this light c o m s on and stays on, it means oil isn't going through your engine properly. You could be low on oil, or you might have some other oil problem. See your dealer for service. Don't keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 129
light doesn't turn on, have your vehicle serviced. Change Oil Soon Light (If Equipped) This light is activated by the Engine Oil Life Monitor System. The EngineOil Life Monitor determines the condition electronically receiving data from the Powertrain Control Module. The datait receives contains - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 130
, there is a problem with the Oil Life Monitor System service is required. and After changing the engine oil, the system should he reset. This will cause the CHANGE OIL SOON light to be lit for a bulb check period of three seconds. The reset button is in the glove box. With the ignition - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 131
turn off the ignition. 0 E W 0 Low Fuel Light (If Equipped) Standard Cluster Gage Cluster If your Buick has the gage Your fuel gage shows about how much fue owners ask about. None of these show a problem with your fuel gage: 0 't O cluster, a light near the fuel gage will turn on when you - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 132
b NOTES 2-72 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 133
Buick. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. 3- 1 3-6 3-7 3-8 3-9 3- 10 3-1 1 3-11 3- 12 3- 12 3- 12 3- 14 3-18 Comfort Controls Air Conditioning Heating Ventilation System and Tips Tips for Defogging and Defrosting Rear Window Defogger Passenger Control Steering - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 134
The buttons on your system allow you to choose settings to deliver air through the lower, middle or windshield outlets. Electronic ' uch Clin te Control If your Buick has this climate control system, the following information tells you how it works. RECIRC: Press this button to limit the amount - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 135
outlets. The air conditioner is on in this mode. Dual Automatic ComforTemp Climate Control (If Equipped) If your Buick has the Dual Automatic Comfortemp Climate Control option, the following information tells you how it works. You will hear a beep each time a button is pushed and a light on the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 136
shown in the display. If the display is flashing after the climate control system is started, there is a problem with the system and you should see your dealer for service. Sun and temperature sensors automatically adjust the air temperature, the airflow direction and the fan speed to maintain your - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 137
FLOW or FRONT buttons will override this delay, turn off the AUTO setting and change the fan speed. Manual Operation You may also manually adjust the air delivery or fan speed. AIR FLOW: This button is used to change the direction of the airflow. The airflow choices available are FLOOR, FLOOR-MID - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 138
. VENT The VENT button allows outside air to flow through your Buick without the air conditioning compressor working. Selecting VENT and the AUTO button at the same time allows the system to control automatically without the use of the air conditioning compressor orthe use of the RECIRC mode. To - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 139
any faster by choosing the extreme comfort setting. When the air conditioner is on, you may sometimes notice slight changes in your vehicle's engine speed and power. This is normal because the system is designed to cycle the compressor on and off to keep the desired temperature. For normal cooling - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 140
Comfortemp system, and on cold days, if the AUTO mode is selected, the system will automatically direct the air toward the floor and the temperature door will touch system or manual operation of the Dual Automatic Comfortemp system) to direct outside air through your vehicle. Air will flow through - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 141
system may need repair. See your Buick dealer. 0 Defogging and Defrosting If HIGH. If you have the rear passenger comfortemp option, you can adjust the Tips 0 Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or down arrow. The fan speed will be controlled by the system. You can change the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 142
the floor, not the windshield. If you have the Dual Automatic Cornfortemp system, the AUTO setting will do this for you. Manual operation of the automatic comfortemp system in the FLOOR mode will also supply air through the floor outlets. After 10 minutes it will turn off by itself, orpressing the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 143
or warmer thanthe primary setting.To activate the passenger control, simply press COOL or WARM the buttons located on the passenger's door. The indicator lights above the control will the show difference from the main temperature setting. If the passenger control has been turned on, itbe can turned - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 144
out what your Delco system can do you're and how to operate all its controls, to be sure getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it the Radio VOLUME: This knob turns the system on and off and controls the volume. To increase volume and turn the radio on, turn the knob clockwise. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 145
RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes. If you press the knob when the ignition - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 146
: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you're not using them. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Turn the control behind the upper - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 147
RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes. If you press the knob when the ignition - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 148
increase or decrease bass. TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or and TREB controls just as you do forthe radio. Other controls may have different functions when a tape is inserted. The display will show an arrow to show which side of the the problem. 3-16 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 149
rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play while the tape reverses. (4): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play while the tape advances - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 150
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display ( - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 151
remain on until this function is complete. To return to the stations you manually set, press AUTO SET again. 2. Press AM-FM to select the band. Setting the Press it again after C & W appears and MANUAL will appear. Tone control will return to the BASS and TREB knobs. Also, if you use the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 152
speakers. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob controls just as you do for the radio. Other controls may have different functions when a tape is inserted. The display will show an anow to show which side to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button to - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 153
(4): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play while the tape advances. SIDE (5): Press this button to change the side of the tape that is playing. 00 (6): Press this button - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 154
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Automatic Tone Control RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display ( - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 155
manually set, press AUTO SET again. Setting the Tone 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press TONE to select the setting you prefer. BASS: Press this knob lightly : Press this knob lightly so it extends. not stop at the preset station. AUTO S E T Press this button MANUAL will appear. Tone comrol - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 156
much moisture in the air. (Wait about an hour and try again.) FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button to go to Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. The disc - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 157
, rather than sequential, order. Press RAND again to turn off random play. AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player and Automatic Tone Control RECALL: Press this button to see which track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how long it has been playing. To - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 158
RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the RECALL button until you see the display you want, then hold the RECALL button until the display flashes. If you press the button - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 159
on until this function is complete. To return to the stations you manually set, press AUTO SET again. Setting the Tone BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decreasebass. TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends.Turn the knob to increase or decrease treble - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 160
the tape reverses. bb (4): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play while the tape advances. SIDE (5): Press this button to change the side of the tape that is playing. If any error occurs repeatedly or - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 161
Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. The or wet. 0 E20: There's too much moisture in the air. (Wait about an hour and try again.) If any error down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button to go to the start - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 162
NEXT (2): Press this button to go tothe next track. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc. The sound will mute while seeking. The SEEK down and up arrows will also find the previous and next selections on the disc. AM-FM: Press - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 163
separate from the vehicle. 2. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN. 3. Turn the radio off. If THEFTLOCK indicate a locked condition anytime battery power is removed. If your battery loses power for Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature The instructions which follow, explain how to enter your - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 164
follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons . The radio will remain secured until the correct code is entered. When battery power is removed and later applied to a secured radio, the radio won - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 165
for a few seconds. The radio will go to the first preset station, stop for a few seconds, then SRCE: If you have radio-only controls, you will have this control. Press SRCE to play a cassette tape or compact disc when the radio is playing. If both a tape and disc are installed, the system - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 166
buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals,causing the sound to come and go. To help avoid hearing loss or damage: Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably and clearly. NOTICE: Before you add any sound equipment to your vehicle like - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 167
through your Buick dealership. You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean . Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. Care of Your Compact Discs Handle discs carefully - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 168
Heated Backlite Antenna Your AM-FM antenna is integrated with your rear window defogger, into your rear window. (Your radio is not at fault.) If you choose to add a cellular telephone to your Buick, and the antenna needs to be attached to the glass, be sure that you do not damage the grid lines for the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 169
b%) NOTES 3-37 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 170
&azo NOTES 3-38 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 171
'll find information about driving on differentkinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We've also included many other useful tips on driving. 4-2 4-3 4-5 4-6 4-10 4-13 4-13 4- 15 4-16 Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Off-Road Recovery Passing Loss of - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 172
Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your Buick: Buckle up. (See "Safety Belts" in the Index.) Defensive driving really means "be ready for anything." On city streets, rural roads or freeways,it means "always - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 173
drive a vehicle: Judgment 0 The obvious way to solve this highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological and developmental reasons for these laws. 0 The length of - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 174
woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law i n many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U S . states, and throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some other - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 175
been drinking -- driver or passenger-- is in a crash,that Ride home in cab; or if a you're with a group, designate a driver who will not drink. -- -- Control of a Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 176
average. It might be less with one driver with and as long as two three seconds or more or another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination and eyesight all play part. So do alcohol, drugs and a frustration. But even 314 of a second, a vehicle in moving at60 mph ( 100 km/h) travels 66 feet - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 177
drivein spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy push. Anti-Lock Brakes Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is an advanced electronic braking system that will help prevent a problem with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on. See "Anti-Lock Brake System - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 178
most of available tireand the road conditions. Here's how anti-lock works.Let's say the roadis wet. in You're driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out front of you. ABS. You slam on the brakes. your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly. 4-8 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 179
automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may reengage the cruise control. (See "Cruise Control" in the Index .) When the system is on, this warning light will come on to let you know if there's a problem with your traction control system. Using Anti-Lock - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 180
especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system on. But you can turn the traction control system off if you ever back on at any time by pressing the button again. The traction control system warning light should go off. Braking in Emergencies With anti-lock, you can - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 181
a curve dependson the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angleat which the curve is banked, your speed. While and you're in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose you're steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -steering and - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 182
cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can't; there isn't room. That's the time for evasive action -- steering around the problem. Your Buick a good reason to practice defensive driving at all times and wear safety - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 183
pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of only slightly below the off pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 184
distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don't get too close. Time your move so get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease alittle to the right. If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 185
conditions, and by not "overdriving" those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond toyour Buick's three control brake system (ABS) helps avoid only the braking skid. have the traction control system, remember: It helps avoid only the acceleration skid. 4-15 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 186
and keep more space between you and other vehicles. Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead. In remote areas, watch for animals. If you're tired, pull off to be impaired -- by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. 4-16 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 187
differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to the see same thing at night as a 20-year-old. What dayin bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you're driving, don't wear sunglasses at night - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 188
can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can't stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn't as good as on dry your windshield wiping equipment in good shape and keep your windshield washer tank filled with washer fluid. Replace your windshield wiper inserts when - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 189
. They won't work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, applyyour brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Driving too fast through large water puddleseven or going - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 190
up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water thatis good tires with proper tread depth. (See "Tires" in the Index.) 0 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 191
where you are going. and Get a city map plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-country trip. 0 Try to . You'll save time and energy. (See the next part, "Freeway Driving.") One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 192
Freeway Driving The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on afreeway as apassing lane. At the entrance, - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 193
than you actually are. Buick dealerships all across North safe, trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can easily drive in. 0 0 Mups: Do you have up-to-date maps'? Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it serviced - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 194
Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as "highway hypnosis"? Or is comfortably cool interior. 0 Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your rearview mirrors and your instruments frequently. or parking area and take a nap pull off the road into a rest, service 4-24 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 195
when you go downhill. Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the be of something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident. 0 If you don't shift down may see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or no-passing - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 196
Here are sometips for winter driving: 0 Have your Buick in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 197
, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your conditions. See "Traction Control System" in the Index. If you don't have the traction control system,accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 198
Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle's stability when you make a hard stop on aslippery road. Even though you have the anti-lock braking system, you'll want to begin stoppingsooner than you would on dry pavement. See "Anti-Lock" in the Index. Allow greater following distance on any slippery - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 199
Here are some things to do to summon helpand keep yourself and your passengers safe: Turn on your hazard flashers. 0 Tie a red cloth to you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 200
go alittle faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel forthe heat that you get and it keeps the Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas restart - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 201
MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE. I SPA. IF TIRESAREHOT, ADD 4PS1;28KPa SEE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL \INFORMATION ~- . 1 I ne other label is the Certification on the rear edge of the driver's doortells you the proper size, speed rating and recommended inflation pressures for the tires on your vehicle - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 202
can break, or it canchange the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten thelife of your vehicle. NOTICE: Your warranty does not cover parts or components thatfail because of overloading. If you put things inside your vehicle -- like suitcases - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 203
follow the advice in this part, and your Buick dealer see a for important correct equipment and drive properly, you canlose control when you pull a trailer. For example,if passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your Buick - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 204
hitch dealer about sway controls. Don't tow a trailer at all during the first 1,000 miles (1 600 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. but also where you'll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. and the total - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 205
the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow a trailer, you must subtract the tongue forour trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Buick Motor Division, Customer Relations Center 902 E. Hamilton Avenue Flint, MI - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 206
If you're using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a weight-distributing hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 207
that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working own brakes? Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 208
trailer. And, because you're a good deal longer, you'll need to go turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your Buick dealer. The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash Once you disconnect the trailer lamps, the bulb warning lights again can tell you if one of your vehicle lamps - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 209
store the chocks. Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you're pulling a trailer. See the belts, cooling system and brake adjustment. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you're trailering, it's a good - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 210
fi NOTES 4-40 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 211
the Road Here you'll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. Hazard Warning Flashers Other Warning Devices Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engine Overheating 5-22 5-22 5-35 5-36 If a Tire - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 212
. To turn off the flashers, pull out on the collar. Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash o n and dl'. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won't work. 5-2 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 213
carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your want to use to another vehicleand some jumper cables start your Buick. But please use the following steps to do it safely. I Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: They contain - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 214
You wouldn't be able to start your Buick, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter. Turn by your warranty. 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. 'A I C. UTI0 An electric fan can start - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 215
doing this, and some have been blinded. a flashlight if Use you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. don't You need to add water to the Delco Freedom@ battery installed in every newGM vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps,be sure the right amount of fluid is there.If it - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 216
7. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 5-6 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 217
18 inches (45 cm) away from the deadbattery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just good as of there, but the chance sparks getting backto the battery is much less. 11. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while. 12. Try to start the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 218
shift lever. If there was an accident, what was damaged. A. Heavy Metal Engine Part 0 0 0 B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery When the towing service arrives, let the tow operator know that this manual contains detailed towing instructions and illustrations. The operator may want to see them. 5-8 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 219
AC UTION: 'A CAUTION: A vehicle can fall from car carrier if it isn't a adequately secured. This damage drivetrain and suspension components. Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. Never tow with damaged parts notfully secured. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 220
Front Towing Attach T-hook chains on both sides the in slotted holes in the bottom of the cradle, behind the front wheels. - Position a 4" x 4" wood beam across sling chains contacting the bottom the radiator support. Position of the lower sling crossbar directly under front bumper. the 5-10 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 221
Attach T-hook chains to slots in the bottom of the floor pan directly ahead of the rear wheels on both sides. No 4 " x 4 " wood beam is needed. L Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each control arm. 5-11 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 222
J Position the lower sling crossbar directly behind and at the lower edge of the rear bumper cover. Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each lower control arm. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 223
Engine Overheating You will find a coolant light or a warning light about a hot engine on your Buick's instrument panel. If you have the optional gage cluster, you may also have a coolant temperature warning gage. See "EngineCoolant Temperature Warning Light" or "Engine Coolant Temperature Gage" in - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 224
If you get the overheat warning but see orhear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little . until You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away. 1. Turn off your air conditioner. 2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 225
When you decide it's safe to lift the hood, here's what you'll see: An electric fan under the hoodcan start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothingand tools away from any underhood electricfan. If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don't - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 226
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don't touch them. If you do, the electric engine is overheating, both fans should be running. If they aren't, your vehicle needs service. If it isn't, you may have a leak the radiatorhoses, in heater hoses, radiator, water pump somewhere - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 227
Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven't founda problem yet, but the coolant level isn't at the FULL COLD cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mix. Adding only plain water to your - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 228
I You can be burnedif you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and itwill burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on hot engine. a When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the FULL COLD mark, start your - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 229
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap. 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, includingthe radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.Turn the pressure - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 230
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL COLD mark. 5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off. 5-20 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 231
lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL@coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck. 8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 232
air side. Take your foot off the accelerator accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop -- well off the road if possible. , If a tire goes flat, the next part - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 233
- 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 234
of the trunk. Turn the center retainer bolt on the spare tire cover counterclockwise to remove it. The box that stores the jack and wrench is on the passenger side trunk wall. Open the box and then twist the wing bolt a one-quarter turn counterclockwise. Lift and remove the cover. See "Compact - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 235
Removing Wheel Covers and Wheel Nut Caps The tools you'll be using include the jack (A) and wheel wrench (B). If your vehicle has an aluminum wheel with a center cover that hides the wheel nuts, remove the center cover by using the flat end of the wrench to pry it off. 5-25 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 236
it comes of off. Be careful, therm edges may be sharp.Don't try to i remove itwith your bare hands. Note: When replacing any wheel cover, carefully line up the tire valve stem the notch in the and wheel cover. When re-installing the decorative nut caps,tighten the caps snuglywith the wheel - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 237
key wrench handle, between the wire wheel cover and the center cap, pry off the center cap. Pull off the wire wheel cover. Note: When replacing the wheel cover, carefully line up the tire valve stem and the notch in the wheel cover. 5-27 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 238
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 2. Attach the wheel wrench to the bolt on the end of the jack and rotate the wrench clockwise toraise the jack head a few inches. 3. Put the jack into a notch in the frame which is located near each wheel well. The front notch is 10 inches (25 cm - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 239
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. 4. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly on the ridge in the vehicle's frame nearest the flat - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 240
for the spare tire to fit. 6. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. Rust or dirt the wheel, or on the parts to on which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts a become loose after time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 241
' A CAUTION: 8. Place the spare on the wheel mounting surface and replace the wheel nuts with the rounded 10. Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwiseon the jack. Lower the jack completely. 9. Make sure each - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 242
the wheel cover in the trunk until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced. Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel to become loose wheel nuts can accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If youhave to replace them, sure to get be new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 243
the Tire Tools Flat and A CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike possible. Store the jack and wheel wrench in theirbox in the trunk on the passenger's side. 5-33 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 244
in the proper place. 2 The compactspare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. See "Compact Spare Tire" later in this section. See the storing instructions label toreplace your compact spare intoyour trunk properly. 1 1. Jack 2. Wheel - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 245
was new, it can lose air after a time. Check replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good shape in case you need it again. I NOTICE: When the compact spare installed, don't take is your vehicle through an automatic vehicle wash with guide - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 246
injured. And, the transaxle or other parts the vehicle can of overheat. That Control System" in the Index.) Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 247
NOTES 5-37 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 248
k % NOTES 5-38 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 249
Outside Your Buick of Cleaning Aluminum Wheels Cleaning Tires Sheet Metal Damage Finish Damage Appearance Care Materials Chart Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) Service Parts Identification Label Electrical System Replacement Bulbs Capacities and Specifications Air Conditioning Refrigerants Engine - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 250
to keep.yourGM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one these marks: of Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to do yourown service work, see "Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick"in the Index. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileageand the date of - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 251
knocking, your engineneeds service. But don'tworry if you hear a little pinging noise when you're accelerating or driving a , but emission control system performance may Buick dealer for diagnosis determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 252
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 check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil 8P7 To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 253
Filling Your Tank I I A CAUTION: Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don't smoke if you're neargasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoline. The cap is behind a hinged door on the driver's - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 254
I a CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself then and something ignitesit, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out you if you open the on fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen in if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 255
it may not properly. This may fit cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and your fuel tank and emissions system may be damaged. See "Malfunction from any underhood electric fan. Things that burn can on hot engine parts and get start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 256
Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the hood release handle inside the vehicle. It is next to the parking brake pedal near the floor. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release. The hood latch is under the hood, near the center, and at the front edge of the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 257
I1 Engine (L36 - Code K) When you open the hood, you'll see: A. B. C. D. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank Battery Radiator Pressure Cap Engine Oil Dipstick E. Engine Oil Fill Cap F. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick G. Brake Master Cylinder H. Air Cleaner I. Windshield WasherFluid Reservoir 6-9 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 258
Engine Oil If the CHECK OIL LEVEL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you OIL LEVEL For more infomation, see "Check Oil Level Light"in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. It's a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 259
oil is ator below the ADD mark, then you'll need to add at least one quartof oil. But you mustuse the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see "Capacities and Specifications" in the Index. I NOTICE: Don't add too much oil. If your - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 260
RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS . FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE. HOT WEATHER As shown in the chart, SAE low-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE SW-30 if it's going to be colder - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 261
Buick soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly all free-flowing oil from the filter before disposal. Don't ever dispose problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help. 0 0 0 0 Driving under these conditions - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 262
Cleaner The air cleaner and filter areon the driver's side the of engine compartment. 2. Remove the screws on the air cleaner housing cover. 1. Remove the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) cover that is located to the driver's side of the air cleaner assembly. Unscrew the retaining screws and remove - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 263
the throttlebody. throttle body, pull back the entire rear portion of the a r cleaner by pulling upwardand rearward. i Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when t replace theair filter. See "Scheduled Maintenance Services" in the Index. 6-15 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 264
the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: 0 Operating the engine with the air cleanercan off cause you or others tobe burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame engine if the backfires. If it isn - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 265
Buick dealership Service Department. 0 0 In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. If you do it yourself, be sure to followall the instructions the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure to get an accurate - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 266
next to the brake master cylinder behind the engine block. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must bein the cross-hatched area. 4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 267
following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating, see "Engine Overheating" in the Index. A 50/50 mixture of water and DEX keep the proper engine temperature. I 0 Let the warning lights and gages work as they should. 6-19 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 268
andDEX-COOL@ coolant. -- L What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) andone-half DEX-COOL@coolant which If won't damage aluminum parts. you use this mixture, you don't need to add anything else. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 269
. The repair cost wouldn't be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heatercore and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. Checking Coolant NOTICE: If you usethe - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 270
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and itwill burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine. on the radiator filler neck. When you replace your radiator pressure cap, an AC@ cap is recommended. -- -- 6-22 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 271
controlled behind the accessory drive belt toward the rear of the engine. 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 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 272
Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. 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 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 273
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. , your brake warning light will come on. A chime will sound if you try to drive with this warning light on. See "Brake System Warning Light" in the Index. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 274
Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake (GM Part fluid -- such as Delco Supreme l l @ No. 12377967). Use new 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 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 275
lightly applied. This doesnot mean something is wrong with your brakes. See "Caliper/Knuckle Maintenance Inspection" in Section 7 of this manual under Part should always be replaced as complete axle sets. See "Brake System Inspection" Section 7 of this in manual under Part C "Periodic Maintenance - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 276
be a sign of brake trouble. 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. Brake Adjustment - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 277
"Replacement Bulbs" the Index. in Headlamps This procedure is for both the driver's and passenger's side headlamps. Halogen Bulbs Halogen bulbs have pressurizedgas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Besure to read and follow the instructions on - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 278
2. Slide the headlamp outboarduntil the pins are loose. 3. Remove the headlamp assembly toaccess the bulbs. 4. Rotate the bulbretainer counterclockwise to remove the bulbassembly. 6-30 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 279
5. f i l l the tabs away from the bulb base to remove the bulb from the retainer. 6. Push the new bulb straight ontothe retainer. 7. Reverse these steps to replace the bulb assembly. 6-31 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 280
to remove the cornering lamp bulb, turn the bulb assembly counterclockwise and pull the bulb straight out. 1. Loosen and remove the eight fasteners (four per side) that hold the assembly in place. The assembly for both sides is one piece. The entire piece must be removed to replace any bulbs. 6-32 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 281
2. Pull out the assembly. 3. Push in the tab and turn the bulb assembly counterclockwise to remove it. 6-33 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 282
4. Remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out. 5 . Replace the bulb and reverse the steps to install the new bulb assembly. 6-34 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 283
Remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out. 5. Replace with a new bulb by pushing the bulb straight into Buick dealer. NOTICE: To make sure your headlamps are aimed properly, read all the instructions before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to headlamp parts - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 284
- 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 285
2. Locate the headlamp aiming screwthat is under the hood. 3. T r the vertical aiming screw until the bubble un inside the level is centered at zero "0". 4. After the vertical aim is correct, checkthe horizontal aim for each headlamp adjust as necessary. Turn and the horizontal aiming screw until - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 286
about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Buick Warranty booklet for details. r--I I Replacement blades come in different types and are removed thecorrect windshield wiper blade replacement length and type, see "Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts" in the Index. 6-38 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 287
your If tread is badly worn, or your tires have if been damaged, replace them. -- Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire-Loading Information label, which is is all right. It's not. If your tires don't have enough air (underinflation), you can get thefollowing: Too much flexing 0 Too much heat - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 288
60 psi (420 kPa). Maintenance Services" in the Index for scheduled rotation intervals. I L How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tires wheels. See "WhenIt's Time for New Tires" and "Wheel Replacement" later in section for this more information. The purposeof regular rotation - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 289
have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. Rust or dirton a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could comeoff and , cut or other damage that can't be repaired well because the size or location of of the damage. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 290
traction, ride and other things during normal service on 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. Mixing tires could cause you to lose control - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 291
Motors passenger cars and light trucks 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 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 292
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 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 293
the braking and handlingyour of vehicle, make your tires lose air and makeyou lose control. You could have a collision in which you or otherscould 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 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 294
size them on the front tires and tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Driveslowly and follow the chain manufacturer's instructions them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are a container to clean your Buick, be sure to follow the manual says you can. In many - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 295
with a clean, damp cloth. Your Buick dealer has two cleaners, a solvent-type leather. tips: Here are some cleaning 1. Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. 2. Clean up stains as soon as or scraper. 2. Use very little cleaner, light pressure and clean cloths (preferably cheesecloth). - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 296
Cleaning Problems Greasy cup (250 ml) of lukewarm water. 4. If needed, clean lightly with solvent-type cleaner. Combination Stains Stains caused by candy, ice Carefully scrape off excess stain. 2. Follow the solvent-type instructions described earlier. Shoe polish,wax crayon, tar and asphalt will - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 297
harm the leather. 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 dust filmson see through windshield the under certain conditions. Care of SafetyBelts Keep belts clean and dry. 6-49 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 298
(non-scratching glass cleaning powder), GM Part No. 1050011. The windshield is clean if replace blades, that look worn. Cleaning the Outsideof Your Buick chemical detergents. Use liquid hand, dish or car washing (mild detergent) soaps. Don't use instructions under "Washing Your Vehicle." 6-50 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 299
and chemical falloutthat 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 Wheels (If Equipped) Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 300
control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur on the underbody parts Buick will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition dealer or other service outlets. Larger areas of finish damage can - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 301
I . PART 6-53 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 302
and replacement parts. I.1 11 @ 111 111111 1 . 1 11111111 111111111111111.11111 1 1 - * ""LE4UXVM072675 Service Parts Identification side. You can see it you look through the if windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 303
"Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick"in the Index. Windshield Wipers The windshield wiper motor is protected by an internal 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 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 304
turn counterclockwise and loosen the metal wing nut on the passenger side of the cover. Then remove the cover. The inside of the cover has a chartthat explains the features and controls governed by each fuseand relay. If you ever have a problem on the road and don't have a spare fuse, you can - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 305
The driver's side fuse block is to the left of the steering wheel, under the instrument panel. Snap off the cover to reveal the fuses. You'll find a - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 306
Not Used Not Used Power Seats Circuit Breaker Not Used Not Used PASS-Key Spare Not Used Not Used Up-Level HVAC, ALM, Cruise Control, Cluster Courtesy Lamps, Power Mirrors Not Used Perimeter Lighting Not Used Turn Signal, Back-up Lamps, BTSI Spare Not Used Not Used 1 2 4 5 6 8 9 1 1 6-58 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 307
System, Computer Command Control Brake and Hazard Lamps Not Used Interior Lighting Cigarette Lighter Air Bag System Spare Not passenger's side, below the instrument panel. You must remove the sound insulator on the right side of the passenger footwell to replace these fuses. Since the replacement - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 308
n o r---------l Fuse 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 I I I 01 07 I I I FUSE POSITIONS 11 12 Usage Door Locks Trunk Release, RAC Horns Not Used Miscellaneous Engine Controls Fuel Pump Injectors Powertrain Control Module Not Used Not Used A/C Programmer Not Used I I I I 6-60 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 309
Replacement Pan Removal and Replacement ...6.5 quarts (6.I L) After Complete Overhaul ...10 quarts (9.5 L) When clminitt - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 310
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, your Buickdealer. ask Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Filter ...AC Type A-1096C Engine Oil Filter ...AC Type - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 311
AccesSQry Belt The L36 engine uses an engine accessory belt. This diagram shows the features connected and the routing. See "Maintenance Schedule"in the Index for when to check the belt. B A. Power Steering F B. Generator C. Air Conditioning D. Crank E. Coolant Pump c E Tensioner 6-63 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 312
& NOTES 6-64 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 313
maintenance required for your Buick. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance. Maintenance Services Part A: Scheduled Part B: Owner Checks and Services 7-43 7-45 7-47 Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Part D: Recommended Fluids and - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 314
maintenance can even affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level of emissions from your vehicle. To help protect our environment, and to keep your vehicle in good condition, please maintain your vehicle properly. KEEP ENGINE OIL - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 315
you can easily do to help keep your vehicle good condition. in "Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections" explains important inspections that your Buick dealer's service departmentor another qualified service center should perform. "Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants" lists some products GM - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 316
to keep your vehicle in good condition, see your Buick dealer. This part tells you the maintenance services you should have done and when you should schedule them. If you go to your dealer for your service needs, you'll know that GM-trained and supported service people will perform the work using - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 317
. Every 30,000 Miles (50 000 km): Air Cleaner Filter Replacement. Fuel Tank, Cap and Lines Inspection. Every 50,000 Miles (83 000 km): Automatic Transaxle Service (severe conditions only). Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Engine Accessory Drive Belt Inspection. Every 100,000 Miles (166 000 km - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 318
. Every 30,000 Miles (50 000 km): Air Cleaner Filter Replacement. Fuel Tank, Cap and Lines Inspection. Every 50,000 Miles (83 000 km): Automatic Transaxle Service (severe conditions only). Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Engine Accessory Drive Belt Inspection. Every 100,000 Miles (166 000 km - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 319
Services" and "Periodic Maintenance Inspections" following. (12 500 km) since your last oil change. Under severe conditions light Air good Part C of this schedule. the indicated intervals and the maintenance be recorded. ++ If you drive in a highly corrosive environment, your # Lubricate the suspension - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 320
and Rotation" in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 3,000 Miles (5 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). A n Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) I DATE I ACTUALMILEAGE DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 321
(or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.(See footnote*.) 12,000 Miles (20 000 km) 17 Change engine oiland filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.(See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 322
). AI?Emissiorz Contr-01Ser-\lice. (See footnote *.) 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Enlissiorl C o m d SeI*~~icc. (See footnote?.) I I I 1 DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED B Y I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE ISERVICED B Y 1 7-10 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 323
every I 24,000 Miles (40 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Enoissio~? Coutrd Sen;ice. (See footnote *.) 21,000 Miles (35 000 km) 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Contrd Service. (See footnote *.) ~ ~~ DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 324
, whichever occurs first). A17 Emission Control Sonice. (See footnote * .) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Replace air cleaner filter. A I IEmissiou Co1lt1-01 Ser-\*icc. 27,000 Miles (45 000 km) DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY: 7-12 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 325
or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote T.) 0Rotate tires. See "Tire Inspection and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). A n EnzissioM Corztrol Service. (See footnote *.) I I I 1 DATE SERVICED ACTUAL - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 326
andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 36.000 Miles (60 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 327
(75 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Enzissiou Colwol Service. (See footnote *.) 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. AHEmissiot1 Control Service. (See footnote?.) DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 328
km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate 83 000 km) 0Change automatic transaxlefluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 329
n Emissior? Contr.01Service. (See footnote *.) 54,000 Miles (90 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Comol Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 330
Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Inspect engine accessorydrive belt. An Emission Control Service. 0Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. I I I 1 DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 331
engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Contrd Service. (See footnote * .) 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Enj.issiorz C o m o l Service. (See footnote?.) 0Rotate - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 332
/City Maintenance Schedule I 69,000 Miles (115 000km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). A7 Emission Control Service. (See footnote * .) 7 66,000 Miles (110 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 333
(125 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). A J Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) ~ 0Inspect air cleaner filterif you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Enzissio~lControl Service. (See footnote?.) 72,000 Miles (120 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 334
I ShortTrip/City Maintenance Schedule I 78,000 Miles (130 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See " - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 335
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 84,000 Miles (140 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emissior.1 Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) [7 Rotate tires. - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 336
, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. c7 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for dama or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote T.) (7 Rotate tires. See "Tire - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 337
. (See footnote*.) I 96,000 Miles (140 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter every (or 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whicheveroccurs first). (See footnote#.) CI Rotate tires. See "Tire Inspection - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 338
Maintenance Schedule I 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) 0Inspect spark plug wires. AI?Emission Control Service. 99,000 Miles (145 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission C o m d Service. (See footnote *.) 0Replace spark plugs. An Emission Cont~ol - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 339
1 ShortTrip/CityMaintenanceSchedule I 150,000 Miles (240 000 km) 0Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 60 months since last service, whichever occurs first). See "Engine Coolant" in the Index for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck. Pressure - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 340
"Owner Checks and Services" and "Periodic Maintenance Inspections" following. (12 500 k ) m since your lastoil change. Under severe conditions, the indicator may California Air Resources Boardhas determined that the failure to perform maintenance item will not nulhfy the this + A good time - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 341
12 500 km) 0Change engine oiland filter (or every 12 months,whichever occurs first). An Emission C o m o l Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis 25 000 km) 0Change engine oiland filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Senice. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 342
1 22,500 Miles (37 500 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). AI?Enlissiorl Corn-01 000 Miles (50 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (orevery 12 months, whichever occurs first). A7 E I ~ ~ S SCorn-ol Service. (See footnote * .) 1 ~OII 0Lubricate chassis - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 343
37,50.0Miles (62 500 km) 0Replace air cleaner filter. An E?nission Contr-01Senice. 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. AI?E?.nission Corm-olService. (See footnote3.) I DATE I - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 344
km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis (7 Change , automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 345
100 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). A n Enlission Comol Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components ++.) 0Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An EnlissioM Cont~-01 Service. 1 I DATE I I ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY. (Continued) - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 346
0Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. C Inspect fuel tank, cap and l linesfor damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote?.) DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY: DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 347
footnote +.) (Also see footnote ++.) 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An En~ission Contl-olService. (See footnote and additional information. (See footnote +.) 0Change DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED B Y 1 I I ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 348
. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote#.) Replace aircleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasketfor any damage. Replaceparts as needed. An Emission - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 349
Miles (166 000 km) 0Inspect spark plug wires. An Emission Control Senire. 0Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. 0Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where the outside F temperature - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 350
the Index what to use. for Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck. Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap. An Emission Control Service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, thefluid andfilter not require do changing. DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 351
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed below are owner checksand services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Whenever any fluids or - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 352
safety belts replaced. Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.) At Least Once a Year Key Lock Cylinders Service Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant specified in Part D. Body - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 353
the Index if necessary) and the regular brake. NOTE: Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts. . If the shift lever moves out of PARK (P), your vehicle's BTSI needs service. 3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The starter should work only - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 354
brake only. To check the PARK (P) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Then release all brakes. 8 8 Underbody Flushing Service At least every spring, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to clean thoroughly any areas - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 355
or leakage. Replace seals if necessary. Throttle Linkage Inspection Inspect the throttle linkage for interference or binding, and for damage ormissing parts. Replace parts as needed. Replace any cables that have high effort or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and cruise control cables - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 356
for wear and rotors for surface condition. Also inspect drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, , your vehicle may require additional brake service. Refer to the appropriate GM Service Bulletin for the proper caliper inspection procedure - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 357
number or specification may be obtained from your GM dealer. USAGE Hydraulic Brake System Parking Brake Cable Guides FLUIDLUBRICANT Delco Supreme 11 Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 12377967 or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid). @ USAGE Engine Oil Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines "Starburst - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 358
Weatherstrip Conditioning FLUIDLUBRICANT Multi-pu ose lubricant, % Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241 or equivalent). Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part No. 12345579 or equivalent). Windshield Washer Solvent Hood Latch Assembly, Pivots, Spring Anchor and Release Pawl See "Replacement Parts'' in - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 359
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed,record the date, odometer- reading and who performed the service in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval. Any additional information from "Owner Checksand Services'' or "Periodic Maintenance" can be added on the - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 360
Maintenance Record DATE I ODOMETER READING I SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-48 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 361
Maintenance Record DATE ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-49 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 362
Maintenance Record I DATE I ODOMETER SERVICED READING I BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-50 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 363
Section 8 CustomerAssistanceInformation Here you will find out how to contact Buick if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain s Canadian.Roadside Assistance Courtesy Transportation GM Participation in an Alternative Dispute Resolution Program 8-8 8-8 8-9 8-9 8-9 Warranty - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 364
Customer Satisfaction Procedure Buick dealers have the facilities, trained technicians and up-to-date information to promptly resolved at that level. If the matter has already been reviewed with the Sales, Service orParts Manager, contact the owner of the dealership or the General Manager. 8-2 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 365
-- If after contacting a member of dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help, contact the Buick Customer Relations Center by calling 1-800-521-7300. In Canada, contact GM of Canada Customer Communication Centre in Oshawa by calling 1-800 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 366
-263-3830.) 0 We encourage you to call us so we can give your inquiry prompt attention. However, if you wish to write Buick, address your inquiryto: Buick Motor Division Customer Relations Center 902 E. Hamilton Avenue Flint, MI 48550 In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 367
easy access to service professionals trained to work with Buick owners, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays. For details on Buick Premium RoadsideAssistance, please consultyour Buick Premium Roadside Assistance owner booklet included with your owner's manual. For needed - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 368
Buick retail customers with: 0 Courtesy Transportation is Buick's way of extending the Premium Service you've come to expect from Buick and its 3,000 dealers. Please review the Courtesy Transportation glove box ) may be available for the cost of a rental car, bus or even acab. 0 A free one-way - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 369
GM Participation in an Alternative Dispute Resolution Program This program is available in all 50 and/orto discontinue its .following address: participation in this program. BBB AUTO LINE Both Buick and your Buick dealer are committed Council of Better Business Bureaus. Inc. to making sure - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 370
further information, contact the BBB at 1-800-955-5 100 or the Buick Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-7300. REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer or General Motors. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 371
General Motors of Canada Limited.You may write to: Transport Canada Box 8880 Ottawa, OntarioK l G 3J2 In Canada, please call Service and Owner Publications in Canada Service manuals, service bulletins,owner's manuals and other service Buick Motor Division Customer Relations Center 902 E. Hamilton Avenue Flint, - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 372
Motorscars and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to assist in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle. PLEASE COMPLETE THE ORDER FORM SHOWN ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE AND MAIL TO: Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207 FOR 1997 BUCK OWNER'S INFORMATION Owner publications are - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 373
Service Manual Car & Light Truck Transmission Unit Repair Owner's Manual In Portfolio Owner's Manual Without Portfolio I YEAR I QTY' EACH* $90.00 $40.00 $1 5.00 TOTAL PRICE 1997 1997 1997 1997 VISA Discover GRAND TOTAL T (STREET ADDRESS-NO P.O. BOX NUMBERS) Account Number: U I nU U U I - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 374
fi NOTES 8-12 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 375
...6-5 1 3-36 Antenna. Heated Backlite ...6-19 Antifreeze ...Anti-Lock Brakes ...4-7 Brake System Warning Light ...2-63. 4-7 3-31 Anti-Theft.Radio ...Appearancecare ...6-46 Appearance Care Materials ...6-53 .hbitration Program ...8-7 Air Bag ... 2-51 Armrest.Storage ...Ashtrays ...2-52 Audio - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 376
Control ...2.24. 7.41 BTSI Check ...Bulb Replacement ...6-29 Canadian Roadside Assistance ...Capacities and Specifications ...2-3 1 . Carbon Monoxide ...Care of Your Cassette Tape Player ...Cassette Deck Service ...Cassette Tape Player ...3- 16. 3.20. Cassette Tape Player Care ...Center Passenger - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 377
Errors ...3.24.3.29 5-36 Compact Spare Tire ...Console Storage ...2-5 1 Control of a Vehicle ...4-5 Convenience Net ...2-52 2-50 Convex Outside Mirror ... ...Defogging ...3-9 Defrosting ...3-9 Delayed Entry Lighting ...2-44 Delayed Exit Lighting ...2-44 DelayedLocking ...2-7 2-7 Personal Choice - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 378
9-4 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 379
...2-9 Instant Alarm ...2-10 2-12 Personal Choice Features ...Resynchronization ...2-10 2-2 Keys ...Labels Certification ...Service Parts Identification ...Tire-Loading Information ...Vehicle Identification Number ...Lamps ...Courtesy ...Entry Lighting, Delayed ...Exterior ...Exit Lighting, Delayed - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 380
...2-29 Light Sensor. Twilight Sentinel ...2-43 Lighter ...2-52 Lights 1.20. 2-60 Air Bag Readiness ...Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ...2-63.4-7 Battery Warning and Fluids ...Lubrication Service. Body ... 2-71 7-45 7-40 4-10 ...Magnasteer Maintenance. Normal Replacement Parts ...6-62 7-47 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 381
...2-6 Perimeter Lighting ...2-45 2-11 SecurityFeedback ...Power 2-5 DoorLocks ...6-55 OptionFuses ...2-50 Remote Control Mirror ...Seat ...l-3 Steering ...4-10 6-23 Steering Fluid ...Windows ...2-33 Pregnancy, Use of Safety Belts ...1-18 Problems on the Road ...5-1 Publications, Service and Owner - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 382
- 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 383
. Ordering ...8- 10 Manuals. Ordering ...8- 10 Parts Identification Label ...6-54 8-9 Publications. Ordering ...6-2 Work. Doing Your Own ...Service and Appearance Care ...6- 1 Service and Owner Publications ...8- 10 Service Publications ...8- 10 Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick ...1-24 Sheet - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 384
...6-4 1 Wheel Replacement ...6-44 When It's Time for New ...6-41 1-36 Topstrap ...2-30 TorqueLock ...5-32-6-61 Torque . Wheel Nut ...Towing a Trailer ...4-33 Towing YourVehicle ...5-8 Traction Control System ...4-9 Control System Warning Light ...2-64. 4-9 Off Warning Light ...4-9 Trailer Brakes - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 385
Service ...Underbody Maintenance ...Universal Theft-Deterrent ...Vehicle Control ...Damage Warnings ...Dimensions ...Identification Number ...Loading ...Storage ...Ventilation System ...VisorVanity Mirrors ...Visors. Sun ...Voltage Indicator ...w a r n i n g Devices ...Warning Lights Replacement - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 386
Service Station Checkpoints REMOTE BATTERY TERMINAL P5-6 TIRES P6-38 ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK SECONDARY HOOD RELEASE ENGINE COOLANT RECOVERY TANK P6-22 HOOD RELEASE P6-8 I FUEL P2-13 For detailed information, refer to the page number listed, or see the Index in the back of the owner's manual. 9-12 - 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 387
- 1997 Buick LeSabre | Owner's Manual - Page 388