coolant temperature BUICK LUCERNE 2006 Owner's Manual

Engine Coolant Heater
If your vehicle has this feature, in very cold weather, 0°F
(−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help.
You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during
engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be
plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your
vehicle. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the
coolant heater is not required.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
On vehicles with the 3.8L V6 engine, the coolant
heater cord is located on the passenger’s side of the
vehicle, above the headlamp assembly. On
vehicles with the 4.6L V8 engine, the cord is located
on the driver’s side of the vehicle on the right
side of the engine air cleaner. It is between the
engine cover and the engine air cleaner.
{CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the
wrong kind of extension cord could overheat
and cause a re. You could be seriously
injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded
three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will
not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong
extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
3. Plug the cord into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC
outlet.
4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and
store the cord as it was before to keep it away
from moving engine parts. If you do not, it could be
damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged
in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the
kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead
of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact
your dealer in the area where you will be parking
your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice
for that particular area.
2-24

StabiliTrak®Indicator Light..............................3-42
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light......3-43
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage..................3-43
Tire Pressure Light.......................................3-44
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.............................3-44
Oil Pressure Light.........................................3-47
Security Light...............................................3-48
Fog Lamp Light............................................3-48
Cruise Control Light......................................3-48
Highbeam On Light.......................................3-48
Fuel Gage...................................................3-49
Driver Information Center (DIC).......................3-50
DIC Controls and Displays.............................3-50
DIC Warnings and Messages.........................3-56
DIC Vehicle Customization.............................3-65Audio System(s).............................................3-74
Setting the Time
(Without Date Display)...............................3-75
Setting the Time
(With Date Display)....................................3-76
Radio with CD (Base)...................................3-77
Radio with CD (MP3)....................................3-82
Navigation/Radio System...............................3-98
Theft-Deterrent Feature..................................3-98
Audio Steering Wheel Controls.......................3-99
Radio Reception.........................................3-100
Care of Your CDs.......................................3-100
Care of the CD Player.................................3-101
Backglass Antenna......................................3-101
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System............3-101
Section 3 Instrument Panel
3-2

Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light
The engine coolant
temperature warning light
will come on when the
engine has overheated.
If this happens you should pull over and turn off the
engine as soon as possible. SeeEngine Overheating on
page 5-27for more information.
Notice:Driving with the engine coolant temperature
warning light on could cause your vehicle to
overheat. SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-27.
Your vehicle could be damaged, and it might not be
covered by your warranty. Never drive with the
engine coolant temperature warning light on.
This light will also come on when starting your vehicle.
If it doesn’t, have your vehicle serviced.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the
pointer moves towards the H (United States) or shaded in
thermostat symbol area (Canada), the engine is too hot.
A temperature indicator light will turn on and a chime
will sound.
If you have been operating your vehicle under normal
driving conditions, and the temperature indicator
light comes on, you should pull off the road, stop your
vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible.
United StatesCanada
3-43

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
This warning message and the tire pressure light on
the instrument panel cluster will appear when the
air pressure in one of the tires is too low or too high.
Check the vehicle’s tire pressure as soon as possible,
and ll or deate the affected tire to the appropriate
level. The correct tire ination pressure should be set to
those shown on the tire-loading information label on
the vehicle. SeeLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-29and
Tire Pressure Light on page 3-44for more information.
This message is reset when it is acknowledged.
However, you must also reset the tire pressure system.
See “Reset Tire Pressure System” underDIC Controls
and Displays on page 3-50for more information.
DRIVER DOOR OPEN
This message will display when the driver’s door is not
closed properly. When this message appears, you should
make sure that the driver’s door is closed completely.
ENGINE HOT A/C (Air Conditioning) OFF
This message will display when the engine coolant
becomes hotter than the normal operating temperature.
To avoid added strain on a hot engine, the air
conditioning compressor is automatically turned off.
When the coolant temperature returns to normal,
the A/C operation will automatically resume. You can
continue to drive your vehicle. If this message continues
to appear, have the system repaired by your GM dealer
as soon as possible to avoid compressor damage.
ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL
This message will display when the vehicle’s engine oil
is low. Fill the oil to the proper level as soon as
possible. SeeEngine Compartment Overview on
page 5-12for the engine oil ll location. Also, see
Engine Oil on page 5-15for information on the kind of
oil to use and the proper oil level.
3-57

ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE
Notice:If you drive your vehicle while the engine is
overheating, severe engine damage may occur.
If an overheat warning appears on the instrument
panel cluster and/or DIC, stop the vehicle as soon as
possible. Do not increase the engine speed above
normal idling speed. SeeEngine Overheating
on page 5-27for more information.
This message will display when the engine coolant
temperature is too hot. Stop and allow the vehicle to idle
until it cools down.
ENGINE OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE
Notice:If you drive your vehicle while the engine
is overheating, severe engine damage may occur.
If an overheat warning appears on the instrument
panel cluster and/or DIC, stop the vehicle as soon as
possible. Do not increase the engine speed above
normal idling speed. SeeEngine Overheating
on page 5-27for more information.
This message will display along with a continuous
chime when the engine has overheated. Stop and turn
the engine off immediately to avoid severe engine
damage. SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-27.
ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED
This message will display when the vehicle’s engine
power is reduced. Reduced engine power can affect the
vehicle’s ability to accelerate. If this message is on,
but there is no reduction in performance, proceed
to your destination. The performance may be reduced
the next time the vehicle is driven. The vehicle may
be driven at a reduced speed while this message is on,
but acceleration and speed may be reduced. Anytime
this message stays on, the vehicle should be taken
to your GM dealer for service as soon as possible.
ERROR
This message will display when viewing the odometer or
trip odometers if there is a problem with the instrument
panel cluster. See your GM dealer for service.
FUEL LEVEL LOW
This message will display when your vehicle is low on
fuel. You should rell the fuel tank as soon as possible.
SeeFuel Gage on page 3-49andFilling the Tank on
page 5-8for more information.
3-58

How to Add Automatic Transaxle Fluid
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine
what kind of transaxle uid to use. SeeRecommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.
If the uid level is low, add only enough of the proper
uid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on
the dipstick.
1. Pull out the dipstick.
2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough uid at the
dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level.
It does not take much uid, generally less than
one pint (0.5 L). Do not overll.
Notice:Use of the incorrect automatic transaxle
uid may damage your vehicle, and the damages
may not be covered by your warranty. Always
use the automatic transaxle uid listed in
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.
3. After adding uid, recheck the uid level as
described under “How to Check Automatic
Transaxle Fluid,” earlier in this section.
4. When the correct uid level is obtained, push the
dipstick back in all the way.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in your vehicle is lled with
DEX-COOL®engine coolant. This coolant is designed
to remain in your vehicle for ve years or 150,000 miles
(240 000 km), whichever occurs rst, if you add only
DEX-COOL
®extended life coolant.
The following explains your cooling system and how to
add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem
with engine overheating, seeEngine Overheating on
page 5-27.
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL
®coolant will:
Give freezing protection down to−34°F (−37°C).
Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).
Protect against rust and corrosion.
Help keep the proper engine temperature.
Let the warning lights and gages work as they
should.
Notice:Using coolant other than DEX-COOL
®may
cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator
corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may
require changing sooner, at the rst maintenance
service after each 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or
24 months, whichever occurs rst. Any repairs
would not be covered by your warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL
®(silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.
5-23

Radiator Pressure Cap
Notice:The radiator cap on your vehicle is a
pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to
prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage
from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap
line up with the overow tube on the radiator
ller neck.
SeeEngine Compartment Overview on page 5-12for
more information on location.
Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap
Notice:If the pressure cap is not tightly installed,
coolant loss and possible engine damage may
occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly
secured.
SeeEngine Compartment Overview on page 5-12for
more information on location.
Engine Overheating
There is a hot engine warning light as well as an engine
coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument
panel cluster.
In addition, if your vehicle is equipped with a Driver
Information Center (DIC), you will nd an ENGINE
OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE, ENGINE HOT A/C
(Air Conditioning) OFF, or a ENGINE OVERHEATEDSTOP ENGINE message displayed on the DIC. See
DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-56DIC
Warnings and Messages for more information.
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
{CAUTION:
Steam from an overheated engine can burn
you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay
away from the engine if you see or hear steam
coming from it. Just turn it off and get
everyone away from the vehicle until it cools
down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or
coolant before you open the hood.
If you keep driving when your engine is
overheated, the liquids in it can catch re. You
or others could be badly burned. Stop your
engine if it overheats, and get out of the
vehicle until the engine is cool.
Notice:If your engine catches re because you
keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can
be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be
covered by your warranty.
5-27

Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When you need windshield washer uid, be sure to read
the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will
be operating your vehicle in an area where the
temperature may fall below freezing, use a uid that has
sufficient protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the
washer symbol on it. Add
washer uid until the
tank is full. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview on
page 5-12for reservoir
location.Notice:
When using concentrated washer uid, follow the
manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.
Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer uid.
Water can cause the solution to freeze and
damage your washer uid tank and other parts of
the washer system. Also, water does not clean as
well as washer uid.
Fill your washer uid tank only three-quarters full
when it is very cold. This allows for expansion if
freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if
it is completely full.
Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your
windshield washer. It can damage your washer
system and paint.
5-39

(d)Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking.
Replace wiper blades that appear worn or damaged
or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
(e)Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages
are working properly. 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. Have any torn or frayed safety belts
replaced. Also look for any opened or broken airbag
coverings, and have them repaired or replaced.
The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.
(f)Lubricate all key lock cylinders. Lubricate all
hinges and latches, including those for the hood, rear
compartment, glove box door, and console door.
More frequent lubrication may be required when
exposed to a corrosive environment. Applying silicone
grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make
them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
(g)If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, the lter
may require replacement more often.(h)Change automatic transaxle uid and lter if the
vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these
conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
In hilly or mountainous terrain.
When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.
(j)Drain, ush, and rell cooling system. This service
can be complex; you should have your dealer perform
this service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-23 for
what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser,
pressure cap, and ller neck. Pressure test the
cooling system and pressure cap.
(k)A uid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired
and the uid level checked. Add uid if needed.
(l)Inspect throttle body bore and valve plates for
deposits. Open the throttle valve and inspect all
surfaces. Clean as required.
(m)If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, inspect
the lter at each engine oil change.
(n)Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or
obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
6-8

Chains, Tire...................................................5-71
Charging System Light....................................3-39
Check
Engine Light...............................................3-44
Tire Pressure System...................................5-63
Checking Things Under the Hood......................5-10
Chemical Paint Spotting...................................5-90
Child Restraints
Child Restraint Systems...............................1-36
Infants and Young Children...........................1-33
Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Children..................................................1-41
Older Children.............................................1-30
Securing a Child Restraint in a
Rear Seat Position...................................1-46
Securing a Child Restraint in the
Center Front Seat Position........................1-48
Securing a Child Restraint in the
Right Front Seat Position..........................1-49
Where to Put the Restraint...........................1-40
Cigarette Lighter.............................................3-22
Cleaning
Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels..............5-88
Exterior Lamps/Lenses.................................5-87
Fabric/Carpet..............................................5-84
Finish Care.................................................5-87
Inside of Your Vehicle..................................5-83Cleaning (cont.)
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other
Plastic Surfaces.......................................5-86
Leather......................................................5-85
Tires..........................................................5-89
Underbody Maintenance...............................5-90
Washing Your Vehicle...................................5-87
Weatherstrips..............................................5-86
Windshield and Wiper Blades........................5-88
Climate Control System...................................3-23
Air Filter, Passenger Compartment.................3-31
Dual Automatic............................................3-26
Outlet Adjustment........................................3-31
Collision Damage Repair..................................7-10
Comfort Guides, Rear Safety Belt.....................1-27
Compact Spare Tire........................................5-82
Content Theft-Deterrent....................................2-18
Control of a Vehicle.......................................... 4-6
Convenience Net............................................2-46
Coolant
Engine Temperature Gage............................3-43
Engine Temperature Warning Light.................3-43
Heater, Engine............................................2-24
Surge Tank Pressure Cap.............................5-27
Cooled Seats................................................... 1-5
Cooling System......................................5-29, 5-34
Cornering Lamps............................................3-16
3