sensor BUICK LESABRE 1999 Owner's Manual

First Edition for Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual ± 1999
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1-23
What will you see after an air bag inflates?
After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly
that some people may not even realize the air bag
inflated. Some components of the air bag module
-- the
steering wheel hub for the driver's air bag, or the
instrument panel for the right front passenger's
bag
-- will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag
that come into contact with you may be warm, but not
too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust
coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag
inflation doesn't prevent the driver from seeing or from
being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people
from leaving the vehicle.
CAUTION:
When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air.
This dust could cause breathing problems for
people with a history of asthma or other
breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the
vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so.
If you have breathing problems but can't get out
of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get
fresh air by opening a window or door.

Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they
inflate, you'll need some new parts for your air bag
system. If you don't get them, the air bag system
won't be there to help protect you in another crash.
A new system will include air bag modules and
possibly other parts. The service manual for your
vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and
diagnostic module, which records information about
the air bag system. The module records information
about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are
activated and driver's safety belt usage at deployment.

Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag
system. Improper service can mean that your air bag
system won't work properly. See your dealer
for service.

First Edition for Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual ± 1999
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1-24
NOTICE:
If you damage the covering for the driver's or the
right front passenger's air bag, the bag may not
work properly. You may have to replace the air
bag module in the steering wheel or both the air
bag module and the instrument panel for the
right front passenger's air bag. Do not open or
break the air bag coverings.
If your vehicle ever gets into a lot of water -- such as
water up to the carpeting or higher
-- or if water enters
your vehicle and soaks the carpet, the air bag controller
can be soaked and ruined. If this ever happens, and then
you start your vehicle, the damage could make the air bags
inflate, even if there's no crash. You would have to replace
the air bags as well as the sensors and related parts. If your
vehicle is ever in a flood, or if it's exposed to water that
soaks the carpet, you can avoid needless repair costs by
turning off the vehicle immediately and disconnecting the
battery cables. Don't let anyone start the vehicle under any
circumstances. See your dealer for service.
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.
There are parts of the air bag system in several places
around your vehicle. You don't want the system to
inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your
dealer and the LeSabre Service Manual have
information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag
system. To purchase a service manual, see ªService and
Owner Publicationsº in the Index.
CAUTION:
For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is
turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air
bag can still inflate during improper service. You
can be injured if you are close to an air bag when
it inflates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are
probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to
follow proper service procedures, and make sure
the person performing work for you is qualified
to do so.
The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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2-40
Exterior Lamps
Headlamps
These switches control
these systems:

Headlamps

Taillamps

Parking Lamps

License Lamps

Sidemarker Lamps

Instrument Panel Lights
Press the LIGHTS switch to turn on the headlamps.
Press it again to turn them off. When the headlamps are
turned on, the instrument panel lights will also turn on.
The brightness of the instrument panel lights can be
adjusted with the PANEL LIGHTS switch to the left of
the steering column. Some lights will not dim during
daylight hours.
Press the PARK switch to turn on the parking lamps.
Press it again to turn them off. (If the parking lamps
were turned on with the PARK switch, they must be
turned off with that switch).
Lamps On Reminder
If you leave the manual headlamp or parking lamp
switch on, remove the key from the ignition and open
the driver's door, you will hear a continuous warning
chime. The chime will turn off when the lamps are
turned off.
Daytime Running Lamps
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for
others to see the front of your vehicle during the day.
DRL can be helpful in many different driving
conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the
short periods after dawn and before sunset.
A light sensor on top of the instrument panel monitors
the exterior light level for the operation of DRL and
twilight sentinel, so be sure it isn't covered.
The DRL system will make your high
-beam headlamps
turn on at reduced brightness in daylight when:

The ignition is on,

The headlamp switch is off and

The transaxle is not in PARK (P).

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2-42
The exterior lamps can be completely shut off while the
vehicle is in PARK (P) by sliding the twilight sentinel
control all the way toward MIN, and release. To turn the
exterior lamps back on, slide the control all the way
toward MIN again, and release; or, shift out of
PARK (P).
Light Sensor
Your twilight sentinel and
DRL work with the light
sensor on top of the
instrument panel. Don't
cover it up. If you do, the
sensor will read ªdarkº and
the headlamps will turn on.
Interior Lamps
Instrument Panel
Intensity/Brightness Control
The instrument panel
intensity can be adjusted by
moving this lever between
LO and HI. The instrument
panel lights will be on only
when the headlamps are on.
The interior courtesy lamps
can be turned on by sliding
the lever all the way to the
right, to INT.
Courtesy Lamps
When any door is opened, several lamps go on. They
make it easy for you to enter and leave the vehicle. You
can also turn these lamps on by sliding the PANEL
LIGHTS switch to INT (Interior).

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2-60 Air Bag Readiness Light
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument
panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the
air bag's electrical system for malfunctions. The light
tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system
check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules,
the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module.
For more information on the air bag system, see ªAir
Bagº in the Index.
This light will come on
when you start your engine,
and it will flash for a few
seconds. Then the light
should go out. This means
the system is ready.
If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the
engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag
system may not work properly. Have your vehicle
serviced right away.
The air bag readiness light should flash for a few
seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the
light doesn't come on then, have it fixed so it will be
ready to warn you if there is a problem.
Battery System Warning Light
Standard Cluster Gage Cluster
When you turn the key to RUN, one of these lights will
turn on briefly to show that your generator and battery
charging systems are working.
If the light stays on, you need service and you should
take your vehicle to the dealer at once. To save your
battery until you get there, turn off all accessories and
set your climate control system to OFF.

First Edition for Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual ± 1999
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3-4
C±43±2053±T
If the display is flashing after the climate control system
is started, there is a problem with the system and you
should see your dealer for service.
Sun and temperature sensors automatically adjust the air
temperature, the airflow direction and the fan speed to
maintain your comfort setting. The system may supply
cooler air to the side of the vehicle toward the sun. Be
careful not to put anything over the sensors on top of
the dash.Temperature Button
To adjust the comfort level you want maintained inside
the vehicle, push the TEMP button. If you want a
warmer comfort level, push the red arrow. If you want a
cooler comfort level, push the blue arrow. Your comfort
setting is shown in the display.
Fan Button
The speed of the blower fan is controlled automatically if
you have the system set for AUTO. Pressing the FAN
button will display and hold the current blower fan setting.
If you want the blower fan to run at a lower speed, push
the bottom of the FAN button. The fan speed will
decrease with every push of the button until the lowest
speed is reached. If you want to increase the fan speed,
push the top of the FAN button. Notice the fan
indicators in the display.
Mode Controls
Press the AIR FLOW button to deliver air through the
floor, middle or windshield outlets. The system will stay
in the selected mode until the AUTO button is pushed.
Use the up and down arrows on the AIR FLOW button
to cycle through the available modes.

First Edition for Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual ± 1999
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3-11
Ventilation Tips

Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or
any other obstruction such as leaves. The heater and
defroster will work better, reducing the chance of
fogging your windows.

Keep the air path under the front seats clear of
objects. This helps air to circulate throughout
your vehicle.

When the engine idles for a long time, the exterior
temperature sensor may cause the system to blow air
that is too cool. Once the vehicle is moving again,
the system will try to maintain the set temperature
inside your vehicle.

When you start your vehicle and the EXT display
flashes (Dual Automatic Comfortemp system only)
for some time, the system may need repair. See
your dealer.Steering Wheel Controls for Climate
Control (If Equipped)
G±43±2200±V
If your vehicle has this
feature, you can control the
temperature function by
using the button on your
steering wheel. Press the
TEMP up arrow to increase
the temperature and the
TEMP down arrow to
decrease the temperature.

First Edition for Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual ± 1999
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9-6
Labels
Certification 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certification/Tire 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service Parts Identification 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tire-Loading Information 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle Identification Number 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lamps 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Courtesy 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Entry Lighting, Delayed 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exit Lighting, Delayed 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exterior 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Illuminated Entry 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Reminder 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Perimeter Lighting 2-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Theater Dimming 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leaving Your Vehicle 2-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running 2-29 . . . . . . .
Light Sensor, Twilight Sentinel 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lighter 2-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights
Air Bag Readiness 1
-20, 2-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning. 2-62, 4-7 . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery Warning 2-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake System Warning 2-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change Oil Soon 2-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Engine 2-65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Oil Level 2-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning 2-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Oil Pressure Light 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Fuel 2-70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Pressure 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Safety Belt Reminder 2
-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction Control System Warning 2-63, 4-9 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction Off Warning 4-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading Your Vehicle 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lockout Protection 2-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locks 2-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cylinders 7-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Delayed Locking 2-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Door 2-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition Transaxle Lock Check 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Key Lock Cylinder Service 7-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lockout Protection 2-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory Door 2-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Door 2-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear Door Security 2-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trunk 2-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Window 2-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Fuel Light 2-70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lubricants and Fluids 7-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lubrication Service, Body 7-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Magnasteer
4-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance, Normal Replacement Parts 6-65 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Record 7-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Schedule 7-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Trip/Highway Definition 7-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Trip/Highway Intervals 7-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Owner Checks and Services 7-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Periodic Maintenance Inspections 7-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 7-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scheduled Maintenance Services 7-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short Trip/City Definition 7-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short Trip/City Intervals 7-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .