2011 Buick LaCrosse Owner's Manual - Page 334

10-22 Vehicle Care 3. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in N (Neutral) while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral) and let the engine idle. If the temperature overheat gauge is no longer in the overheat zone or an overheat warning no longer displays, the vehicle can be driven. Continue to drive the vehicle slowly for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe vehicle distance from the vehicle in front. If the warning does not come back on, continue to drive normally. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away. If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while parked. If the warning is still displayed, turn off the engine until it cools down. Also, see Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode on page 10‑22. If No Steam is Coming from the Engine Compartment If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam can be seen or heard, the problem might not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle: ... Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode This emergency operating mode allows the vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, there is significant loss in power and engine performance. The engine coolant temperature warning light comes on the instrument panel, to indicate the vehicle has entered overheated engine protection operating mode. The temperature gauge also indicates an overheat condition exists. Driving extended km (mi) and/or towing a trailer in the overheat protection mode should be avoided. Climbs a long hill on a hot day Stops after high-speed driving Idles for long periods in traffic Tows a trailer If the overheat warning displays with no sign of steam: 1. Turn the air conditioning off. 2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary.