cooling BUICK RAINIER 2007 Owner's Manual

A high electrical load occurs when several of the
following loads are on: headlamps, high beams,
fog lamps, rear window defogger, climate
control fan at high speed, heated seats, engine
cooling fans, trailer loads, and loads plugged into
accessory power outlets.
EPM works to prevent excessive discharge of the
battery. It does this by balancing the generator’s
output and the vehicle’s electrical needs. It
can increase engine idle speed to generate more
power, whenever needed. It can temporarily
reduce the power demands of some accessories.
Normally, these actions occur in steps or levels,
without being noticeable. In rare cases at the
highest levels of corrective action, this action may
be noticeable to the driver. If so, a Driver
Information Center (DIC) message might be
displayed, such as Battery Saver Active or Battery
Voltage Low. If this message is displayed, it is
recommended that the driver reduce the electrical
loads as much as possible. SeeDIC Warnings
and Messages on page 202.Battery Run-Down Protection
This feature shuts off the dome, courtesy, and
vanity lamps if they are left on for more than
20 minutes when the ignition is off. This will keep
the battery from running down.
If the battery run-down protection shuts off the
interior lamps, it may be necessary to do one of
the following to return to normal operation:
Shut off all lamps and close all doors.
Turn the ignition key to RUN.
This feature will also turn off the parking lamps
and headlamps under most circumstances, if they
are left on. If you would like to turn them back
on, turn the exterior lamps knob.
Accessory Power Outlet(s)
With the accessory power outlets, you can plug in
auxiliary electrical equipment such as a cellular
telephone or CB radio.
Your vehicle has three accessory power outlets.
There are two outlets located below the climate
controls and one outlet is on the rear of the center
oor console.
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Climate Controls
Dual Automatic Climate Control
System
With this system you can control the heating,
cooling and ventilation for your vehicle. When your
vehicle is rst started and the climate control
system is on, or if the climate control system has
been turned on, the display will show the
driver’s temperature setting for ve seconds.
Then it will show the outside temperature.
Outside Air Temperature Display
A new outside temperature reading will be
displayed if the vehicle has been off for more than
three hours. If the vehicle has been off for less
than three hours, the old temperature reading may
be displayed because underhood heat is
affecting the true outside temperature.
Since underhood heat can also affect the outside
temperature while the engine is running, it
may take several minutes of driving before the
display updates to the actual outside temperature.
9(Off):Press this button to turn off the entire
climate control system. Outside air will still
enter the vehicle, and will be directed to the oor.
Press the AUTO button, the mode button, the
fan arrows, or either temperature knob to turn the
system on.
C(Mode):Press this button to manually select
the air delivery mode to the oor, instrument panel,
or windshield outlets. The system will stay in the
selected mode until the mode button is pressed
again or the AUTO button is pressed.
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2. Set the driver’s and passenger’s temperature.
To nd your comfort setting, start with a
72°F (22°C) temperature setting and allow
about 20 minutes for the system to regulate.
Turn the driver’s or passenger’s side
temperature knob to adjust the temperature
setting as necessary. If you choose the
temperature setting of 60°F (15°C), the system
will remain at the maximum cooling setting.
If you choose the temperature setting of
90°F (32°C), the system will remain at the
maximum heat setting. Choosing either
maximum setting may not cause the vehicle to
heat or cool any faster.
Manual Operation
To change the current setting, select one of
the following:
w9x(Fan):This button allows you to manually
adjust the fan speed. Press the up arrow to
increase fan speed and the down arrow to
decrease fan speed. The display will change to
show you the selected fan speed and the driver’s
side temperature setting for ve seconds.
C(Mode):Press this button to manually change
the direction of the airow in your vehicle. Keep
pressing the button until the desired mode appears
on the display. The display will change to show
you the selected air delivery mode and the driver’s
temperature setting for ve seconds.
H(Vent):This mode directs air to the instrument
panel outlets.
)(Bi-Level):This mode directs approximately
half of the air to the instrument panel outlets, then
directs the remaining air to the oor outlets.
A little air is directed toward the windshield and
the side window outlets. Cooler air is directed
to the upper outlets and warmer air to the
oor outlets.
6(Floor):This mode directs most of the air to the
oor outlets. Some air also comes out of the
defroster and side window outlets. The recirculation
button cannot be selected in oor mode.
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ENGINE COOLANT HOT/ENGINE
OVERHEATED
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 382for more information.
This message displays and a chime sounds if the
cooling system temperature gets hot. See
Engine Overheating on page 382for the proper
course of action. This message clears when
the coolant temperature drops to a safe operating
temperature.
FUEL LEVEL LOW
This message displays and a chime sounds if the
fuel level is low in the vehicle’s fuel tank. Refuel as
soon as possible. Press any of the DIC buttons, or
the trip stem, to acknowledge this message and
clear it from the DIC display. SeeLow Fuel Warning
Light on page 197,Filling the Tank on page 361,
andFuel on page 358for more information.
ICE POSSIBLE
This message may display if the outside
temperature reaches a level where ice could form
on the roadway. If the temperature rises to a safe
level, the message clears. This message clears
itself after 10 seconds, or you can press any of the
DIC buttons, or the trip stem, to acknowledge this
message and clear it from the DIC display.
KEY FOB # BATTERY LOW
This message displays if a Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) transmitter battery is low. Replace the
battery in the transmitter. See “Battery
Replacement” underRemote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation on page 94. Press any of the
DIC buttons, or the trip stem, to acknowledge this
message and clear it from the DIC display.
LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR
This message displays and a chime sounds if the
driver’s side rear door is not fully closed. Stop and
turn off the vehicle, check the door for obstructions,
and close the door again. Check to see if the
message still appears on the DIC. Press any of the
DIC buttons, or the trip stem, to acknowledge this
message and clear it from the DIC display.
204

After Off-Road Driving
Remove any brush or debris that has collected
on the underbody, chassis, or under the hood.
These accumulations can be a re hazard.
After operation in mud or sand, have the brake
linings cleaned and checked. These substances
can cause glazing and uneven braking. Check the
body structure, steering, suspension, wheels,
tires, and exhaust system for damage. Also, check
the fuel lines and cooling system for any leakage.
Your vehicle will require more frequent service
due to off-road use. Refer to the Maintenance
Schedule for additional information.
Driving at Night
Night driving is more dangerous than day driving.
One reason is that some drivers are likely to
be impaired — by alcohol or drugs, with night
vision problems, or by fatigue.
Here are some tips on night driving.
Drive defensively.
Do not drink and drive.
Adjust the inside rearview mirror to reduce the
glare from headlamps behind you.
Since you cannot see as well, you may need
to slow down and keep more space between
you and other vehicles.
Slow down, especially on higher speed roads.
Your vehicle’s headlamps can light up only so
much road ahead.
In remote areas, watch for animals.
If you are tired, pull off the road in a safe
place and rest.
314

Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or mountains is different
from driving in at or rolling terrain.If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you are
planning to visit there, here are some tips that
can make your trips safer and more enjoyable.
SeeOff-Road Driving on page 299for information
about driving off-road.
Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all
uid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling
system, and transmission. These parts can
work hard on mountain roads.
{CAUTION:
If you do not shift down, your brakes
could get so hot that they would not work
well. You would then have poor braking or
even none going down a hill. You could
crash. Shift down to let your engine assist
your brakes on a steep downhill slope.
323

Driving with a Trailer
{CAUTION:
If you have a rear-most window open and
you pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon
monoxide (CO) could come into your
vehicle. You cannot see or smell CO.
It can cause unconsciousness or death.
SeeEngine Exhaust on page 122.
To maximize your safety when towing
a trailer:
Have your exhaust system inspected
for leaks, and make necessary repairs
before starting on your trip.
Keep the rear-most windows closed.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)

If exhaust does come into your vehicle
through a window in the rear or
another opening, drive with your front,
main heating or cooling system on
and with the fan on any speed. This
will bring fresh, outside air into your
vehicle. Do not use the climate control
setting for maximum air because it
only recirculates the air inside your
vehicle. SeeDual Automatic Climate
Control System on page 170.
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of
experience. Before setting out for the open road,
you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint
yourself with the feel of handling and braking with
the added weight of the trailer. And always
keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is
now a good deal longer and not nearly as
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
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When You Are Ready to Leave After
Parking on a Hill
1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal
down while you:
start your engine,
shift into a gear, and
release the parking brake.
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the
chocks.
4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the
chocks.
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
Your vehicle will need service more often when
you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance
Schedule for more on this. Things that are
especially important in trailer operation are
automatic transmission uid (don’t overll), engine
oil, axle lubricant, belt(s), cooling system and
brake system. Each of these is covered in
this manual, and the Index will help you nd them
quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to
review these sections before you start your trip.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts
and bolts are tight.
351

Service........................................................ 356
Accessories and Modications................... 356
California Proposition 65 Warning.............. 357
Doing Your Own Service Work.................. 357
Adding Equipment to the Outside
of Your Vehicle...................................... 358
Fuel............................................................. 358
Gasoline Octane........................................ 358
Gasoline Specications.............................. 358
California Fuel........................................... 359
Additives................................................... 359
Fuels in Foreign Countries........................ 360
Filling the Tank......................................... 361
Filling a Portable Fuel Container............... 363
Checking Things Under the Hood.............. 364
Hood Release........................................... 364
Engine Compartment Overview.................. 366
Engine Oil................................................. 369
Engine Oil Life System.............................. 372
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter............................ 374
Automatic Transmission Fluid.................... 375
Engine Coolant.......................................... 379Radiator Pressure Cap.............................. 382
Engine Overheating................................... 382
Cooling System......................................... 384
Engine Fan Noise..................................... 390
Power Steering Fluid ................................. 390
Windshield Washer Fluid........................... 391
Brakes...................................................... 392
Battery...................................................... 396
Jump Starting............................................ 397
All-Wheel Drive........................................... 402
Rear Axle.................................................... 402
Front Axle................................................... 403
Bulb Replacement....................................... 404
Halogen Bulbs........................................... 404
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, and
Parking Lamps....................................... 405
Taillamps and Turn Signal Lamps............. 405
License Plate Lamp................................... 407
Replacement Bulbs................................... 407
Windshield Replacement............................ 408
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement....... 408
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
353

A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. SeeEngine Air
Cleaner/Filter on page 374.
B. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank. SeeCooling
System on page 384.
C. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See
“Adding Washer Fluid” underWindshield
Washer Fluid on page 391.
D. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. SeePower
Steering Fluid on page 390.
E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (Out of
View). See “Checking the Fluid Level” under
Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 375.
F. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil”
underEngine Oil on page 369.G. Radiator Pressure Cap. SeeRadiator Pressure
Cap on page 382.
H. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine
Oil” underEngine Oil on page 369.
I. Remote Negative (−) Terminal (Marked GND).
SeeJump Starting on page 397.
J. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake
Fluid” underBrakes on page 392.
K. Battery. SeeBattery on page 396.
L. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. SeeEngine
Compartment Fuse Block on page 465.
367