2005 Buick Century Owner's Manual - Page 236

If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine An overheated engine warning can indicate a serious problem. If there is an overheated engine warning and you do not see or hear any steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle: • Climbs a long hill on a hot day. • Stops after high-speed driving. • Idles for long periods in traffic. • Tows a trailer. If an overheated engine warning appears with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in NEUTRAL (N) while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and let the engine idle. 2. Adjust the heater to the highest temperature and fan speed settings and open the window as necessary. If the overheated engine warnings no longer exist, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warnings do not come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues, and you have not stopped, pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away. 5-26 If there is still no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while you are parked. If the warning still exists, turn off the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. Also, see "Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode" later in this section. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away. Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode The overheated engine protection operating mode allows the vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, this protection mode alternates firing groups of cylinders to help prevent engine damage. In this mode, there will be a significant loss in power and engine performance. The engine coolant temperature gage indicator will move to the red area, and the engine coolant temperature warning light will come on, showing that an overheated engine condition exists. Driving extended miles (km) and/or towing a trailer in the overheated engine protection mode should be avoided. Notice: After driving in the overheated engine protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage, allow the engine to cool before attempting any repair. The engine oil will be severely degraded. Repair the cause of coolant loss, change the oil and reset the oil life system. See Engine Oil on page 5-13.