tire pressure BUICK PARK AVENUE 2005 Owner's Manual

Driver Information Center (DIC)
Your vehicle may be equipped with a Driver Information
Center (DIC). The DIC will display information about
how your vehicle is functioning, as well as warning
messages if a system problem is detected.
The following buttons are
on the DIC control panel
located to the left of
the steering column:
ODO/TRIP (Odometer/Trip):Use this button to display
your total and trip miles.
FUEL INFO (Information):Press this button to display
fuel information such as fuel used, fuel range and
fuel economy.GAGE INFO (Information):Use this button to display
oil pressure, oil life, coolant temperature, tire pressure
and battery information.
RESET:This button, used along with other buttons, will
reset system functions.
ENG/MET (English/Metric):Use this button to change
the display between English and metric units.
DIC Controls and Displays
When you turn the ignition on, the DIC will display your
driver number. You can have your GM dealer program
your name to appear on this display line. See your
GM dealer for more information.
The system will then perform a status check and display
any messages if a problem is detected. If there are
no problems detected, the display will return to the mode
selected by that driver the last time the ignition was
turned off.
If a problem is detected, a diagnostic message will
appear in the display. The following pages will show the
messages you may see on the DIC display.
The message center is continuously updated with the
vehicle’s performance status.
3-46

Tire Pressure:Press the GAGE INFO button until
TIRE PRESSURE appears in the display. TIRE
PRESSURE NORMAL is displayed when the check tire
pressure system believes your vehicle’s tire pressures
are normal. If a potential tire pressure problem is
detected, the display will show TIRE PRESSURE LOW.
SeeCheck Tire Pressure System on page 5-65for
information on how to reset the system.
Battery Volts:Press the GAGE INFO button until the
display shows BATTERY STATE. If the voltage is
normal the display will show BATTERY STATE
NORMAL. If the voltage drops below 10.5 volts, the
display will show BATTERY STATE LOW. If the voltage
is above 16 volts, the display will show BATTERY
STATE HIGH. If the display shows the high or low
message, you need to have your battery checked. See
your GM dealer for service.Oil Pressure:Press the GAGE INFO button until OIL
PRESSURE appears in the display. If there are no
problems detected with the oil pressure, the display will
show OIL PRESSURE NORMAL. If a low oil pressure
condition is detected, the display will show OIL
PRESSURE LOW. If you see the OIL PRESSURE LOW
message, you could be low on oil or your oil is not
going through the engine properly. See your GM dealer
for service.
Oil Life System:Press the GAGE INFO button until
OIL LIFE INDEX appears in the display. The OIL
LIFE INDEX NORMAL display will show an estimate of
the oil’s remaining useful life. When the oil life index
is less than 10%, the display will show OIL LIFE INDEX
CHANGE OIL. See your GM dealer for service. See
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4
andEngine Oil on page 5-13.
When you have the oil changed according to the
maintenance schedule, you will have to reset the Engine
Oil Life System. To reset the Engine Oil Life System,
see “How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System”
underEngine Oil Life System on page 5-17.
3-48

DIC Warnings and Messages
Other warning messages may appear in the DIC
display. For Canadian drivers, in addition to the DIC
message your DIC will display EXP with a number after
it which reects the following messages:
EXP
(Export ID) Warning Message
23 DOOR AJAR
24 TRUNK AJAR
25 WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID LOW
36 ENGINE OIL LOW – CHECK LEVEL
54 SERVICE STABILITY SYSTEM
55 STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE
82 CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
91TRACTION CONTROL
SYSTEM ACTIVE
140 TIRE PRESSURE LOW
The EXP codes are used to make translation from
English to other languages easier.
Pressing any of the DIC control buttons will remove
the messages or warnings from the DIC display.SERVICE STABILITY SYSTEM – 54:If you ever see
the SERVICE STABILITY SYSTEM message, it
means there may be a problem with your stability
enhancement system. If you see this message, try to
reset the system: stop, turn off the engine, then start the
engine again. If the SERVICE STABILITY SYSTEM
message still comes on, it means there is a problem.
You should see your GM dealer for service. Reduce
your speed and drive accordingly.
STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE – 55:You may see the
STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE message. It means
that an advanced, computer-controlled system has come
on to help your vehicle continue to go in the direction
in which you are steering. This stability enhancement
system activates when the computer senses that
your vehicle is just starting to spin, as it might if you hit
a patch of ice or other slippery spot on the road.
When the system is on, you may hear a noise or feel a
vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal.
When the STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE message is on,
you should continue to steer in the direction you want
to go. The system is designed to help you in bad
weather or other difficult driving situations by making the
most of whatever road conditions will permit. If the
STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE message comes on, you
will know that something has caused your vehicle to
start to spin, so you should consider slowing down.
3-49

Tire Pressure Status – 140:If you see the TIRE
PRESSURE LOW message, you should stop as soon
as you can and check all your tires for damage. If a tire
is at, seeIf a Tire Goes Flat on page 5-73. Also
check the tire pressure in all four tires as soon as you
can. SeeInation - Tire Pressure on page 5-64and
Check Tire Pressure System on page 5-65.
There are times when you will have to reset (calibrate)
the Check Tire Pressure System. SeeCheck Tire
Pressure System on page 5-65.
DIC Vehicle Personalization
The DIC is used to program personal choices for up to
two drivers. The drivers are recognized as DRIVER #1
and DRIVER #2. The DIC will identify a person as
UNKNOWN DRIVER if neither DRIVER #1 nor
DRIVER #2 is identied by the system. You will let the
DIC know which driver you are by using your remote
keyless entry transmitter or by pressing one of the
MEMORY buttons located on the driver’s door. Each
remote keyless entry transmitter was pre-programmed
to belong to DRIVER #1 or DRIVER #2 and is
numbered on the back. Each transmitter may be
programmed differently.After you press the unlock button on your transmitter
with the ignition to RUN, the DIC will display the
identied driver number. The vehicle will recall the
personal choice settings that were last made to
correspond to your transmitter, including your radio and
climate control settings. SeeClimate Controls
Personalization on page 3-31.
If you unlock the vehicle using the key instead of your
transmitter, the DIC will not identify the driver and
will recall the information from the last transmitter used
or the last driver using one of the MEMORY buttons.
If this happens and you were not the last driver of
the vehicle, press your correct driver number on the
appropriate MEMORY button or press the unlock button
on your transmitter.
The DIC can be used to program the following personal
choice features available with your vehicle:
Outside Curb View Assist Mirror
Programmable Automatic Door Locks
Delayed Locking
Security Feedback
Perimeter Lighting
Memory Seat Recall
Window Lock Out
3-50

The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure
faster than any driver could. The computer is
programmed to make the most of available tire and road
conditions. This can help you steer around the obstacle
while braking hard.
As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on
wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.Remember: Anti-lock does not change the time you
need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always
decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to
the vehicle in front of you, you will not have time to apply
your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops.
Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even
though you have anti-lock brakes.
Using Anti-Lock
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal
down rmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may hear
the anti-lock pump or motor operate, and feel the
brake pedal pulsate, but this is normal.
4-8

Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up
under your tires that they can actually ride on the
water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and
you are going fast enough. When your vehicle is
hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.
Hydroplaning does not happen often. But it can if your
tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in
one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is
standing on the road. If you can see reections
from trees, telephone poles, or other vehicles, and
raindrops dimple the water’s surface, there could
be hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There
just is not a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning.
The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.
Driving Through Deep Standing Water
Notice:If you drive too quickly through deep
puddles or standing water, water can come in
through your engine’s air intake and badly damage
your engine. Never drive through water that is
slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If
you cannot avoid deep puddles or standing water,
drive through them very slowly.
Driving Through Flowing Water
{CAUTION:
Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces.
If you try to drive through owing water, as you
might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can
be carried away. As little as six inches of
owing water can carry away a smaller vehicle.
If this happens, you and other vehicle
occupants could drown. Do not ignore police
warning signs, and otherwise be very cautious
about trying to drive through owing water.
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
Besides slowing down, allow some extra following
distance. And be especially careful when you
pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear
room ahead, and be prepared to have your
view restricted by road spray.
Have good tires with proper tread depth. SeeTires
on page 5-58.
4-19

When you want to leave the freeway, move to the
proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do
not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive
on to the next exit.
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.
The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce your speed
according to your speedometer, not to your sense
of motion. After driving for any distance at higher
speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower
than you actually are.
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Make sure you are ready. Try to be well rested. If you
must start when you are not fresh — such as after
a day’s work — do not plan to make too many miles that
rst part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing
and shoes you can easily drive in.
Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it
serviced and maintained, it is ready to go. If it needs
service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you
will nd experienced and able service experts in GM
dealerships all across North America. They will be ready
and willing to help if you need it.Here are some things you can check before a trip:
Windshield Washer Fluid:Is the reservoir full? Are
all windows clean inside and outside?
Wiper Blades:Are they in good shape?
Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids:Have you checked
all levels?
Lamps:Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?
Tires:They are vitally important to a safe,
trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for
long-distance driving? Are the tires all inated to the
recommended pressure?
Weather Forecasts:What is the weather outlook
along your route? Should you delay your trip a
short time to avoid a major storm system?
Maps:Do you have up-to-date maps?
4-22

Tire and Loading Information Label
The Tire and Loading Information label is attached to
the vehicle’s center pillar (B-pillar). With the driver’s door
open, you will nd the label attached below the door
lock post (striker). The tire and loading information label
shows the number of occupant seating positions (A),
and the maximum vehicle capacity weight (B) in
kilograms and pounds.The Tire and Loading Information label also shows the
tire size of the original equipment tires (C) and the
recommended cold tire ination pressures (D). For more
information on tires and ination seeTires on page 5-58
andInation - Tire Pressure on page 5-64.
There is also important loading information on the
Certication label. It tells you the Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axle; see
“Certication Label” later in this section.
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit
1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of
occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX
pounds” on your vehicle placard.
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and
passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and
passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds. United States version shown, Canada similar
4-31

Service............................................................5-3
Doing Your Own Service Work.........................5-3
Adding Equipment to the Outside of
Your Vehicle..............................................5-4
Fuel................................................................5-4
Gasoline Octane............................................5-4
Gasoline Specications....................................5-5
California Fuel...............................................5-5
Additives.......................................................5-5
Fuels in Foreign Countries...............................5-6
Filling Your Tank............................................5-6
Filling a Portable Fuel Container.......................5-9
Checking Things Under the Hood....................5-10
Hood Release..............................................5-10
Engine Compartment Overview.......................5-12
Engine Oil...................................................5-13
Engine Oil Life System..................................5-17
Supercharger Oil..........................................5-18
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter................................5-19
Automatic Transaxle Fluid..............................5-22
Engine Coolant.............................................5-24
Radiator Pressure Cap..................................5-26
Engine Overheating.......................................5-26
Cooling System............................................5-28
Power Steering Fluid.....................................5-34Windshield Washer Fluid................................5-35
Brakes........................................................5-37
Battery........................................................5-40
Jump Starting...............................................5-41
Headlamp Aiming...........................................5-45
Bulb Replacement..........................................5-47
Halogen Bulbs..............................................5-47
Headlamps..................................................5-47
Front Turn Signal Lamps...............................5-50
Rear Turn Signal, Stoplamps and
Back-Up Lamps........................................5-50
Rear Quarter Panel Turn Signal
and Stoplamps..........................................5-54
Replacement Bulbs.......................................5-56
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement..............5-57
Tires..............................................................5-58
Tire Sidewall Labelling...................................5-59
Tire Terminology and Denitions.....................5-61
Ination - Tire Pressure.................................5-64
Check Tire Pressure System..........................5-65
Tire Inspection and Rotation...........................5-67
When It Is Time for New Tires.......................5-68
Buying New Tires.........................................5-68
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..........................5-69
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
5-1

Tires
Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by
a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions
about your tire warranty and where to obtain service,
see your GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional
information refer to the tire manufacturer’s booklet
included with your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual.
{CAUTION:
Poorly maintained and improperly used tires
are dangerous.
Overloading your tires can cause
overheating as a result of too much
friction. You could have an air-out and a
serious accident. SeeLoading Your
Vehicle on page 4-30.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)

Underinated tires pose the same danger
as overloaded tires. The resulting accident
could cause serious injury. Check all tires
frequently to maintain the recommended
pressure. Tire pressure should be
checked when your tires are cold. See
Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-64.
Overinated tires are more likely to be
cut, punctured or broken by a sudden
impact — such as when you hit a pothole.
Keep tires at the recommended pressure.
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If
your tread is badly worn, or if your tires
have been damaged, replace them.
5-58