heat BUICK LUCERNE 2009 Owner's Guide

Windshield Washer
{CAUTION:
In freezing weather, do not use your washer until
the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer
uid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your
vision.
J(Washer Fluid):Press and release this paddle,
located at the top of the turn signal/multifunction lever,
to spray washer uid on the windshield. The wipers will
clear the windshield and either stop or return to the preset
speed. For more washer cycles, press and hold the
paddle.
_(Heated Washer Fluid):The heated windshield
washer uid system, if the vehicle has this feature,
may be used to help clear ice, snow, tree sap, or bugs
from the windshield. Slide the control on the turn signal/
multifunction lever to this position and then release,
to activate the heated windshield washer uid system.
This activation initiates four heated wash/wipe cycles.
The rst heated wash/wipe cycle may take up to
40 seconds to occur, depending on outside temperature.
After the rst wash/wipe cycle, it may take up to
20 seconds for each of the remaining cycles. The heated
windshield washer uid system may be turned off at any
time by sliding the control on the turn signal/multifunction
lever to this position again.
When the heated windshield washer uid system is
activated under certain outside temperature conditions,
steam may ow out of the washer nozzles for a short
period of time before washer uid is sprayed. This is
a normal condition.
WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID will be displayed on
the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the washer
uid is low. SeeDIC Warnings and Messages on
page 3-56.
3-11

Courtesy Lamps
When any door is opened, several lamps turn on
making it easier for you to enter and exit the vehicle.
Turn the instrument panel brightness control completely
clockwise to manually turn on these lamps.
Entry Lighting
If it is dark enough outside when you press the unlock
button on the remote keyless entry transmitter, the
interior courtesy lamps will turn on and stay on for about
40 seconds. The lamps can be turned off immediately by
pressing the lock button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter, turning the ignition key to ON/RUN or
activating the power door locks.
Delayed Entry Lighting
The interior lamps will turn on if you open the door when
it is dark enough outside. When you close the door with
the ignition off, the interior lamps will stay on for up to
25 seconds or until the ignition is turned to an on position.
When the lamps turn off as a result of the 25 second timer
or the ignition switch being turned on, the lighting will
deactivate by way of the theater dimming effect. Locking
the doors will override the delayed entry lighting feature
and the lamps will turn off right away.
Theater Dimming
This feature allows for a three to ve second fade out of
the courtesy lamps instead of immediate turn off.
Delayed Exit Lighting
If it is dark enough outside when you remove the key
from the ignition, the interior lamps will turn on and stay
on for about 25 seconds. This will give you time to nd
the door pull handle or lock switches. Once the key is
inserted into the ignition, the exit lighting will be cancelled
and the lighting will fade out.
Perimeter Lighting
If it is dark enough outside when the unlock button on
the remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed, the
DRL, parking lamps and back-up lamps will come on.
This feature can be programmed on for various amounts
of time in seconds for each transmitter.
SeeDIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-66for
information on programming.
Front Reading Lamps
The front reading lamps are located on the headliner.
Press the button near each lamp to turn them on or off.
3-18

Electric Power Management
The vehicle has Electric Power Management (EPM) that
estimates the battery’s temperature and state of charge.
It then adjusts the voltage for best performance and
extended life of the battery.
When the battery’s state of charge is low, the voltage is
raised slightly to quickly bring the charge back up. When
the state of charge is high, the voltage is lowered slightly
to prevent overcharging. If the vehicle has a voltmeter
gage or a voltage display on the Driver Information
Center (DIC), you may see the voltage move up or down.
This is normal. If there is a problem, an alert will be
displayed.
The battery can be discharged at idle if the electrical
loads are very high. This is true for all vehicles.
This is because the generator (alternator) may not
be spinning fast enough at idle to produce all the
power that is needed for very high electrical loads.
A high electrical load occurs when several of the
following are on, such as: 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,
BATTERY VOLTAGE LOW, or LOW BATTERY. 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 3-56.
Inadvertent Power Battery Saver
This feature is designed to protect your vehicle’s battery
against drainage from the interior lamps, or garage door
opener. When the ignition is turned off, the power to
these features will automatically turn off after 10 minutes.
Power will be restored for an additional 10 minutes if any
door is opened, the trunk is opened or the courtesy lamp
switch is turned on.
3-19

Ashtray(s)
Notice:If papers, pins, or other ammable items
are put in the ashtray, hot cigarettes or other
smoking materials could ignite them and possibly
damage the vehicle. Never put ammable items
in the ashtray.
For vehicles without the oor console, pull the tray
located below the climate controls to reveal the ashtray.
The ashtray can be removed by pulling on the ledge
located at the top of the ashtray.
The vehicles with a full oor console do not have an
ashtray. There is a storage bin below the climate control
system. For more information, seeFront Storage Area on
page 2-57.
Climate Controls
Climate Control System
The heating, cooling, and ventilation for the vehicle can
be controlled with this system.
For vehicles with the remote start feature and it is
activated, the climate control system heats or cools the
inside of the vehicle, with the settings used before the
vehicle was turned off. The heated seats, if the vehicle
has them, and the rear window defogger will be turned
on by the climate control system when it is cold outside.
The cooled seat setting is not activated during a remote
start. Normal operation of the system will return after
the key is turned to the ON/RUN position. SeeRemote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2-5for
more information.
3-21

Rear Window Defogger
The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to
remove fog from the rear window.
<(Rear Window Defogger):Press to turn the rear
window defogger on or off. An indicator light below the
button comes on to show that the rear window defogger is
on. Be sure to clear as much snow from the rear window
as possible.
The rear window defogger only works when the ignition is
in ON/RUN. The rear window defogger stays on for about
20 minutes after the button is pressed if traveling at slow
speeds. At higher vehicle speeds, the rear defogger may
stay on continuously. If turned on again, the defogger
only runs for about 10 minutes before turning off. The
defogger can be turned off by pressing the button again,
by turning the ignition to ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN,
or by turning off the engine.
If the vehicle has heated outside rearview mirrors, the
mirrors heat to help clear fog or frost from the surface
of the mirror when the rear window defogger is on.
SeeOutside Heated Mirrors on page 2-37for more
information.Notice:Do not use anything sharp on the inside of
the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage
the warming grid, and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not attach a
temporary vehicle license, tape, a decal or anything
similar to the defogger grid.
Dual Automatic Climate Control
System
The heating, cooling, and ventilation for the vehicle can
be controlled with this system.
For vehicles with the remote start feature and it is
activated, the climate control system heats or cools the
inside of the vehicle, with the settings used before the
vehicle was turned off. The heated seats, if the vehicle
has them, and the rear window defogger will be turned
on by the climate control system when it is cold outside.
The cooled seat setting is not activated during a remote
start. Normal operation of the system will return after
the key is turned to the ON/RUN position. SeeRemote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2-5for
more information.
3-24

A. Driver and Passenger
Temperature Controls
B. Fan Control
C. Display
D. Air Delivery Mode
ControlE. Air Conditioning
F. Outside Air
G. Recirculation
H. PASS
I. Rear Window
Defogger
Automatic Operation
AUTO (Automatic Fan):When AUTO is selected on
the fan control, the system automatically adjusts the fan
speed. If the OnStar
®system is activated when this
position is selected, the fan speed will lower.
AUTO (Automatic Mode)
1. Turn the fan control to AUTO.
2. Turn the mode control to AUTO.
3. Adjust the temperature to a comfortable setting
between 68°F (21°C) and 78°F (26°C).
Choosing the coldest or warmest temperature
setting will not cause the system to heat or cool any
faster. In cold weather, the system starts at reduced
fan speeds to avoid blowing cold air into the vehicle
until warmer air is available. The system will start
out blowing air to the oor, but may change modes
automatically as the vehicle warms up to maintain
the chosen temperature setting. The length of time
needed to warm the interior depends on the outside
temperature.
4. Wait a few minutes for the system to automatically
regulate. Then adjust the temperature as necessary
to nd your comfort setting.
Do not cover the solar sensor located in the center of
the instrument panel, near the windshield. For more
information on the solar sensor, see “Sensors” later in
this section.
After the vehicle is started, the display shows the
interior temperature settings.
3-25

There is also an interior temperature sensor located
next to the steering wheel that measures the
temperature of the air inside the vehicle.
There is also an exterior temperature sensor located
behind the front grille. This sensor reads the outside air
temperature and helps maintain the temperature inside
the vehicle. Any cover on the front of the vehicle could
cause a false temperature reading to display.
In order to prevent false temperature readings at
startup, the displayed temperature will not change
until the following occurs:
Vehicle speed is above 10 mph (16 km/h) for
ve minutes.
Vehicle speed is above 32 mph (51 km/h) for
two and a half minutes.
The climate control system uses the information
from these sensors to maintain your comfort setting by
adjusting the outlet temperature, fan speed, and the air
delivery mode. The system may also supply cooler air to
the side of the vehicle facing the sun. The recirculation
mode will also be used as needed to maintain cool outlet
temperatures.
Rear Window Defogger
The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to
remove fog or frost from the rear window.
<(Rear Defogger):Press to turn the rear window
defogger on or off. An indicator light below the button
comes on to show that the rear window defogger is on.
Be sure to clear as much snow from the rear window
as possible.
The rear window defogger only works when the ignition
is in ON/RUN. The rear window defogger stays on
for about 20 minutes after the button is pressed if the
vehicle is traveling at slower vehicle speeds. At higher
vehicle speeds the rear window defogger may stay on
continuously. If turned on again, the defogger only runs
for about 10 minutes before turning off. The defogger can
be turned off by pressing the button again, by turning the
ignition to ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN, or by turning
off the engine.
The heated outside rearview mirrors will heat to help
clear fog or frost from the surface of the mirror when
the rear window defogger is on. SeeOutside Heated
Mirrors on page 2-37for more information.
Notice:Do not use a razor blade or sharp object to
clear the inside rear window. Do not adhere anything
to the defogger grid lines in the rear glass. These
actions may damage the rear defogger. Repairs
would not be covered by your warranty.
3-29

Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light
This light comes on briey
while starting the vehicle.
If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by the
dealer/retailer. If the system is working normally
the indicator light goes off.
Notice:Driving with the engine coolant temperature
warning light on could cause the vehicle to overheat.
SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-35. The vehicle’s
engine could be damaged, and it might not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Never drive with
the engine coolant temperature warning light on.
The engine coolant temperature warning light comes on
when the engine has overheated.
If this happens pull over and turn off the engine as soon
as possible. SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-35
for more information.
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 the vehicle has been operating under normal driving
conditions, and the temperature indicator light comes
on, pull off the road, stop the vehicle and turn off
the engine as soon as possible.
United StatesCanada
3-42

ENGINE HOT A/C
(Air Conditioning) OFF
This message displays 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 automatically resumes. You can continue to
drive your vehicle. If this message continues to appear,
have the system repaired by your dealer/retailer as soon
as possible to avoid compressor damage.
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 5-35for more information.
This message displays 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. SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-35
for more information.
This message displays 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 5-35.
ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED
This message displays 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 dealer/retailer for
service as soon as possible.
3-58

ERROR
This message displays while viewing the odometer or
trip odometers if there is a problem with the instrument
panel cluster. See your dealer/retailer for service.
FUEL LEVEL LOW
This message displays when your vehicle is low on fuel.
Rell the fuel tank as soon as possible. SeeFuel Gage
on page 3-48andFilling the Tank on page 5-10for more
information.
HEATED WASH (Washer) FLUID
SYSTEM OFF
This message displays when you manually turn off the
heated windshield washer uid system or when the
system automatically turns off. See “Heated Washer
Fluid” underWindshield Washer on page 3-11for more
information.
HEATING WASH (Washer) FLUID
WASH (Washer) WIPES PENDING
This message displays when you turn on the heated
windshield washer uid system. See “Heated Washer
Fluid” underWindshield Washer on page 3-11for more
information.
HOOD OPEN
If your vehicle has the remote start feature, this
message displays when the hood is not closed properly.
Make sure that the hood is closed completely.
SeeHood Release on page 5-13.
ICE POSSIBLE DRIVE WITH CARE
This message displays when the outside air temperature
is cold enough to create icy road conditions. Adjust
your driving accordingly.
LANE DEPARTURE SYSTEM
UNAVAILABLE
If your vehicle has the Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
system, this message may display if the LDW system
does not activate due to a temporary condition.
SeeLane Departure Warning (LDW) on page 2-44
for more information.
LEFT REAR DOOR OPEN
This message displays when the driver side rear door is
not closed properly. Make sure that the door is closed
completely.
3-59