roof BUICK ENCORE 2018 User Guide

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
70 Seats and Restraints
A seat-mounted side impact airbag
is designed to inflate on the side of
the vehicle that is struck.
Roof-rail airbags are designed to
inflate in moderate to severe side
crashes depending on the location
of the impact. In addition, these
roof-rail airbags are designed to
inflate during a rollover or in a
severe frontal impact. Roof-rail
airbags are not designed to inflate in
rear impacts. Both roof-rail airbags
will inflate when either side of the
vehicle is struck, if the sensing
system predicts that the vehicle is
about to roll over on its side, or in a
severe frontal impact.
In any particular crash, no one can
say whether an airbag should have
inflated simply because of the
vehicle damage or repair costs.
What Makes an Airbag
Inflate?
In a deployment event, the sensing
system sends an electrical signal
triggering a release of gas from the
inflator. Gas from the inflator fills theairbag causing the bag to break out
of the cover. The inflator, the airbag,
and related hardware are all part of
the airbag module.
For airbag locations, see
Where Are
the Airbags? 067.
How Does an Airbag
Restrain?
In moderate to severe frontal or
near frontal collisions, even belted
occupants can contact the steering
wheel or the instrument panel. In
moderate to severe side collisions,
even belted occupants can contact
the inside of the vehicle.
Airbags supplement the protection
provided by seat belts by
distributing the force of the impact
more evenly over the
occupant's body.
Rollover capable roof-rail airbags
are designed to help contain the
head and chest of occupants in the
outboard seating positions in the
first and second rows. The rollover
capable roof-rail airbags are
designed to help reduce the risk of full or partial ejection in rollover
events, although no system can
prevent all such ejections.
But airbags would not help in many
types of collisions, primarily
because the occupant's motion is
not toward those airbags. See
When
Should an Airbag Inflate? 069.
Airbags should never be regarded
as anything more than a supplement
to seat belts.
What Will You See after
an Airbag Inflates?
After the frontal, knee (if equipped),
and seat-mounted side impact
airbags inflate, they quickly deflate,
so quickly that some people may
not even realize the airbags inflated.
Roof-rail airbags may still be at least
partially inflated for some time after
they inflate. Some components of
the airbag module may be hot for
several minutes. For location of the
airbags, see Where Are the
Airbags? 067.

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
Seats and Restraints 77
operate properly if the original seat
trim is replaced with non-GM
covers, upholstery, or trim; or with
GM covers, upholstery, or trim
designed for a different vehicle. Any
object, such as an aftermarket seat
heater or a comfort-enhancing pad
or device, installed under or on top
of the seat fabric, could also
interfere with the operation of the
passenger sensing system. This
could either prevent proper
deployment of the passenger
airbag(s) or prevent the passenger
sensing system from properly
turning off the passenger airbag(s).
SeePassenger Sensing System
0 72.
If the vehicle has rollover roof-rail
airbags, see Different Size Tires
and Wheels 0251 for additional
important information.
If you have to modify your vehicle
because you have a disability and
have questions about whether the
modifications will affect the vehicle's
airbag system, or if you have
questions about whether the airbag
system will be affected if the vehicle is modified for any other reason, call
Customer Assistance. See
Customer Assistance Offices
0294.
Airbag System Check
The airbag system does not need
regularly scheduled maintenance or
replacement. Make sure the airbag
readiness light is working. See
Airbag Readiness Light 0115.
Caution
If an airbag covering is damaged,
opened, or broken, the airbag
may not work properly. Do not
open or break the airbag
coverings. If there are any
opened or broken airbag
coverings, have the airbag
covering and/or airbag module
replaced. For the location of the
airbags, see Where Are the
Airbags? 067. See your dealer
for service.
Replacing Airbag System
Parts after a Crash
{Warning
A crash can damage the airbag
systems in the vehicle.
A damaged airbag system may
not properly protect you and your
passenger(s) in a crash, resulting
in serious injury or even death. To
help make sure the airbag
systems are working properly
after a crash, have them
inspected and any necessary
replacements made as soon as
possible.
If an airbag inflates, you will need to
replace airbag system parts. See
your dealer for service.
If the airbag readiness light stays on
after the vehicle is started or comes
on when you are driving, the airbag
system may not work properly. Have
the vehicle serviced right away. See
Airbag Readiness Light 0115.

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
Storage 97
Storage
Storage Compartments
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . 97
Instrument Panel Storage . . . . . . 97
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Cupholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Underseat Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Center Console Storage . . . . . . . 98
Additional Storage Features
Cargo Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Cargo Management System . . . 99
Convenience Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
First Aid Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Roof Rack System
Roof Rack System . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Storage
Compartments
{Warning
Do not store heavy or sharp
objects in storage compartments.
In a crash, these objects may
cause the cover to open and
could result in injury.
Instrument Panel Storage
Pull the handle to open.
Pull up on the handle to open.
Glove Box
Lift up on the glove box lever to
open it.

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
100 Storage
Convenience Net
The vehicle may have a
convenience net.
The net is used to store small loads
and should not be used for heavy
loads.
First Aid Kit
If equipped, the first aid kit is
stowed in the side rear storage
compartment.
Roof Rack System
{Warning
If something is carried on top of
the vehicle that is longer or wider
than the roof rack—like paneling,
plywood, or a mattress —the
wind can catch it while the vehicle
is being driven. The item being
carried could be violently torn off,
and this could cause a collision
and damage the vehicle. Never
carry something longer or wider
than the roof rack on top of the
vehicle unless using a GM
certified accessory carrier.
For vehicles with a roof rack, the
rack can be used to load items. For
roof racks that do not have
crossrails included, GM Certified
crossrails can be purchased as an
accessory. See your dealer for
additional information.

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
Storage 101
Caution
Loading cargo on the roof rack
that weighs more than 75 kg
(165 lb) or hangs over the rear or
sides of the vehicle may damage
the vehicle. Load cargo so that it
rests evenly between the
crossrails, making sure to fasten
cargo securely.
To prevent damage or loss of cargo
when driving, check to make sure
crossrails and cargo are securely
fastened. Loading cargo on the roof
rack will make the vehicle’ s center
of gravity higher. Avoid high speeds,
sudden starts, sharp turns, sudden
braking, or abrupt maneuvers;
otherwise it may result in loss of
control. If driving for a long distance,
on rough roads, or at high speeds,
occasionally stop the vehicle to
make sure the cargo remains in its
place. Do not exceed the maximum
vehicle capacity when loading the
vehicle.
See Vehicle Load Limits 0162.

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
170 Driving and Operating
Engine Heater
Vehicles with the 1.4L engine may
have an engine heater. The engine
heater can help in cold weather
conditions at or below−18 °C (0 °F)
for easier starting and better fuel
economy during engine warm-up.
Plug in the heater at least four hours
before starting the vehicle. An
internal thermostat in the plug end
of the cord will prevent engine
heater operation at temperatures
above −18 °C (0 °F).
{Warning
Do not plug in the engine block
heater while the vehicle is parked
in a garage or under a carport.
Property damage or personal
injury may result. Always park the
vehicle in a clear open area away
from buildings or structures.
To Use the Engine Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the
electrical cord. The cord is
located in the driver side of the
engine compartment, near the
battery. It is shipped from the
factory with a tie holding it in
place. Use care in removing
the tie so that the cord is not
damaged.
Check the heater cord for
damage. If it is damaged, do
not use it. See your dealer for
a replacement. Inspect the
cord for damage yearly.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.
{Warning
Improper use of the heater cord
or an extension cord can damage
the cord and may result in
overheating and fire.
. Plug the cord into a
three-prong electrical utility
receptacle that is protected
by a ground fault detection
function. An ungrounded
outlet could cause an
electric shock.
. Use a weatherproof,
heavy-duty, 15 amp-rated
extension cord if needed.
Failure to use the
recommended extension
cord in good operating
condition, or using a
damaged heater or
extension cord, could make
(Continued)

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
Driving and Operating 171
Warning (Continued)
it overheat and cause a fire,
property damage, electric
shock, and injury.
. Do not operate the vehicle
with the heater cord
permanently attached to the
vehicle. Possible heater
cord and thermostat
damage could occur.
. While in use, do not let the
heater cord touch vehicle
parts or sharp edges. Never
close the hood on the
heater cord.
. Before starting the vehicle,
unplug the cord, reattach
the cover to the plug, and
securely fasten the cord.
Keep the cord away from
any moving parts.
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.
The length of time the heater should
remain plugged in depends on
several factors. Ask a dealer in the
area where you will be parking the
vehicle for the best advice on this.
Retained Accessory
Power (RAP)
Some vehicle accessories may be
used after the ignition is turned off.
The power windows and sunroof,
if equipped, will continue to work for
up to 10 minutes or until any door is
opened.
The infotainment system will
continue to work for 10 minutes,
until the driver door is opened,
or until the ignition is turned on or
placed in ACC/ACCESSORY.
Shifting Into Park
1. Hold the brake pedal down and set the parking brake. See
Parking Brake 0179. 2. Move the shift lever into
P (Park) by pressing the button
on the shift lever and pushing
the lever all the way toward the
front of the vehicle.
3. Turn the ignition off.
Leaving the Vehicle with the
Engine Running (Automatic
Transmission)
{Warning
It can be dangerous to leave the
vehicle with the engine running.
It could overheat and catch fire.
It is dangerous to get out of the
vehicle if the shift lever is not fully
in P (Park) with the parking brake
firmly set. The vehicle can roll.
Do not leave the vehicle when the
engine is running. If you have left
the engine running, the vehicle
can move suddenly. You or others
could be injured. To be sure the
vehicle will not move, even when (Continued)

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
Vehicle Care 229
Caution
Spilling liquid on any electrical
component on the vehicle may
damage it. Always keep the
covers on any electrical
component.
The vehicle may not be equipped
with all of the fuses, relays, and
features shown.Mini Fuses Usage
1 Sunroof
2 Exterior rearview mirror switch/Driver
side power window/
Rain sensor/
Universal garage
door opener
3 Canister vent solenoid
4 –
5 Electronic brake control module valve
6 Intelligent battery sensor
7 Electric steering column lock
8 Transmission control module/FICM
9 Automatic occupancy sensing
module
10 Headlamp leveling switch/Headlamp
leveling motor/Rear

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
Service and Maintenance 279
.Visually inspect fuel system for
damage or leaks.
. Visually inspect exhaust system
and nearby heat shields for
loose or damaged parts.
. Lubricate body components. See
Exterior Care 0267.
. Check starter switch. See Starter
Switch Check 0220.
. Check automatic transmission
shift lock control function. See
Automatic Transmission Shift
Lock Control Function Check
0220.
. Check parking brake and
automatic transmission park
mechanism. See Park Brake and
P (Park) Mechanism Check
0 220.
. Check accelerator pedal for
damage, high effort, or binding.
Replace if needed.
. Visually inspect gas strut for
signs of wear, cracks, or other
damage. Check the hold open ability of the strut. If the hold
open is low, service the gas
strut. See
Gas Strut(s) 0222.
. Inspect sunroof track and seal,
if equipped. See Sunroof045.

Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
11354409) - 2018 - crc - 11/8/17
Index 325
ProgramCourtesy Transportation . . . . . . 298
Proposition 65 Warning,
California . . . . . . . . . . . .199, 219, 261, Back Cover
R
Radio Frequency Statement . . . . 302
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Rear Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Rear Vision Camera (RVC) . . . . . 184
Rear Window Washer/Wiper . . . . 105
Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Automatic Dimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Records Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Recreational Vehicle Towing . . . . 264
Reimbursement Program, GM Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 296
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Replacement Parts
Airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
Replacing Airbag System . . . . . . . . 77
Replacing LATCH System Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Replacing Seat Belt System
Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Reporting Safety Defects Canadian Government . . . . . . . . 303
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Restraints Where to Put . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Reverse Tilt Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Roads Driving, Wet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Roadside Assistance Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 296
Roof Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Roof Rack System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Rotation, Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248
Routing, Engine Drive Belt . . . . . . 291
Running the Vehicle While Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
S
Safety Defects ReportingCanadian Government . . . . . . . . 303
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Safety Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Safety System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Scheduling Appointments . . . . . . . 298
Seat Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
How to Wear Seat Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114
Replacing after a Crash . . . . . . . . 65
Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . 64
Seats Adjustment, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Folding Seatback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Heated Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Lumbar Adjustment, Front . . . . . . 50
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Power Adjustment, Front . . . . . . . 50
Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Underseat Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98