Buick Lacrosse 2011 User Manual

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

2011 Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual M

In Brief . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . 1-1

Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . .1-4

Vehicle Features. . . . . . . . . . . . .1-16

Performance and

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

Keys, Doors and Windows . . . 2-1

Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2

Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Vehicle Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Exterior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Interior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .2-18

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Seats and Restraints . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Front Seats . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . 3-4

Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11

Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13

Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..3-29

Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-44

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 4-1

Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . 4-1

Additional Storage Features . . . 4-2

Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1

Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Warning Lights, Gauges, and

Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Information Displays . . . . . . . .. . 5-25

Vehicle Messages.. . . . . . . . . . . 5-33

Vehicle Personalization.. . . . . . 5-39

Universal Remote System . . . . 5-45

Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Interior Lighting . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . 6-5

Lighting Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .....7-12

Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20

Rear Seat Infotainment . . . . . . . 7-36

Phone . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . 7-46

Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1

Air Vents.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . 8-8

Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . 9-1

Driving Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Starting and Operating . . . . . . . 9-16

Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-27

Automatic Transmission . . . . . .9-28

Drive Systems . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 9-31

Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-32

Ride Control Systems . . . . . . . .9-36

Cruise Control . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 9-39

Object Detection Systems . . . . 9-42

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-50

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-55

Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-62

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

2011 Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual M

Vehicle Care . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . 10-1

General Information . . . . . . . . . .10-2

Vehicle Checks.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4

Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-30

Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-33

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-38

Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-46

Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-86

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-89

Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . .10-92

Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1

General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . . 11-2

Recommended Fluids,

Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . . 11-7

Maintenance Records . . . . . . . 11-10

Technical Data . . . . . . ......... 12-1

Vehicle Identification.. . . . . . . . 12-1

Vehicle Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2

Customer Information . . . . . . . 13-1

Customer Information . . . . . . . . 13-1

Reporting Safety Defects . . . . 13-16

Vehicle Data Recording and

Privacy . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

The names, logos, emblems,
slogans, vehicle model names,
and vehicle body designs appearing
in this manual including, but not
limited to, GM, the GM logo,
BUICK, the BUICK Emblem, and
LACROSSE are trademarks and/or
service marks of General Motors
LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates,
or licensors.

This manual describes features
that may or may not be on your
specific vehicle either because
they are options that you did
not purchase or due to changes
subsequent to the printing of this
owner manual. Please refer to the
purchase documentation relating
to your specific vehicle to confirm
each of the features found on your
vehicle. For vehicles first sold
in Canada, substitute the name
“General Motors of Canada Limited”
for Buick Motor Division wherever it
appears in this manual.

Introduction iii

Manufactured under license
under U.S. Patent #'s: 5,451,
942; 5,956,674; 5,974,380;
5,978,762; 6,487,535 & other
U.S. and worldwide patents
issued & pending. DTS and the
Symbol are registered trademarks
and DTS Digital Surround and the
DTS logos are trademarks of DTS,
Inc. Product includes software.
All Rights Reserved.

Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 20859621 B Second Printing

©

2010 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

iv Introduction

Manufactured under license from

®

Dolby
the double-D symbol are registered
trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

This product incorporates copyright
protection technology that is
protected by U.S. patents and other
intellectual property rights. Use of
this copyright protection technology
must be authorized by Macrovision,
and is intended for home and other

Laboratories. Dolby and

limited viewing uses only
unless otherwise authorized by
Macrovision. Reverse engineering
or disassembly is prohibited.

"Made for iPod" means that an
electronic accessory has been
designed to connect specifically
to iPod and has been certified
by the developer to meet Apple
performance standards. Apple is
not responsible for the operation
of this device or its compliance with
safety and regulatory standards.

iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano, and
iPod touch are trademarks of Apple
Inc., registered in the U.S. and other
countries.

Canadian Vehicle Owners

Propriétaires Canadiens

A French language copy of this
manual can be obtained from your
dealer or from:

On peut obtenir un exemplaire de
ce guide en français auprès du
concessionnaire ou à l'adresse
suivante:

Helm, Incorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207

1-800-551-4123
Numéro de poste 6438
de langue française
www.helminc.com

Using this Manual

To quickly locate information
about the vehicle, use the Index
in the back of the manual. It is an
alphabetical list of what is in the
manual and the page number
where it can be found.

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Introduction v

Danger, Warnings, and Cautions

Warning messages found on vehicle
labels and in this manual describe
hazards and what to do to avoid or
reduce them.

Danger indicates a hazard with a
high level of risk which will result in
serious injury or death.

Warning or Caution indicates a
hazard that could result in injury or
death.

WARNING

{

These mean there is something
that could hurt you or other
people.

Notice: This means there is
something that could result in
property or vehicle damage.
This would not be covered
by the vehicle's warranty.

A circle with a slash through it
is a safety symbol which means

“Do Not,” “Do not do this,” or
“Do not let this happen.”

Symbols

The vehicle has components and
labels that use symbols instead of
text. Symbols are shown along with
the text describing the operation or
information relating to a specific
component, control, message,
gauge, or indicator.

M : This symbol is shown when

you need to see your owner manual
for additional instructions or
information.

* : This symbol is shown when

you need to see a service manual
for additional instructions or
information.

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

vi Introduction

Vehicle Symbol Chart

Here are some additional symbols
that may be found on the vehicle
and what they mean. For more
information on the symbol,
refer to the Index.

9 : Airbag Readiness Light
# : Air Conditioning
! : Antilock Brake System (ABS)
% : Audio Steering Wheel Controls

or OnStar

®

$ : Brake System Warning Light
" : Charging System

I : Cruise Control

B : Engine Coolant Temperature

O : Exterior Lamps

# : Fog Lamps

. : Fuel Gauge

+ : Fuses

3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam

Changer

j : LATCH System Child

Restraints

* : Malfunction Indicator Lamp
: : Oil Pressure

} : Power

/ : Remote Vehicle Start

> : Safety Belt Reminders

7 : Tire Pressure Monitor

d : Traction Control

M : Windshield Washer Fluid

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In Brief 1-1

In Brief

Instrument Panel

Instrument Panel . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-2

Initial Drive Information

Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-4

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)

System . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Trunk Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-5

Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Memory Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Heated and Ventilated

Seats . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-9

Head Restraint Adjustment . . . . 1-9

Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 1-10

Sensing System for

Passenger Airbag . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

Mirror Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

Steering Wheel

Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Windshield Wiper/Washer .... 1-13

Climate Controls . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-14

Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Vehicle Features

Radio(s) . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Portable Audio Devices . . . . . . 1-17

Bluetooth

Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . 1-18

Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18

Navigation System . . . . . . . .. . . 1-19

Driver Information

Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19

Vehicle Personalization . . . . . . 1-20

Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

Universal Remote System . . . 1-20

Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-21

®

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Performance and Maintenance

Traction Control

System (TCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

Electronic Stability

Control (ESC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . 1-22

Tire Sealant and

Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-23

Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . 1-23

Driving for Better Fuel

Economy .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

Roadside Assistance

Program . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . 1-24

®

OnStar

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24

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1-2 In Brief

Instrument Panel

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In Brief 1-3

A. Air Vents on page 8‑8.

B. Head-Up Display (HUD) on

page 5‑29 (If Equipped).

C. Turn and Lane‐Change Lever.

See Turn and Lane-Change
Signals on page 6‑4.

Driver Information Center
Buttons. See Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑25.

D. Instrument Cluster on

page 5‑10.

Driver Information Center
Display. See Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑25.

E. Windshield Wiper/Washer on

page 5‑3.

F. Infotainment Display Screen.

G. Infotainment on page 7‑1.

H. Exterior Lamp Controls on

page 6‑1.

Fog Lamps on page 6‑5

(If Equipped).

Instrument Panel Illumination
Control on page 6‑5.

I. Front Storage on page 4‑1.

J. Data Link Connector (DLC)

(Out of View). See Malfunction
Indicator Lamp on page 5‑17.

K. Cruise Control on page 9‑39.

L. Steering Wheel Adjustment on

page 5‑2.

M. Horn on page 5‑3.

N. Steering Wheel Controls on

page 5‑2 (If Equipped).

O. Ignition Positions (Key Access)

on page 9‑17 or Ignition
Positions (Keyless Access) on
page 9‑19.

P. Heated and Ventilated Front

Seats on page 3‑10.

Q. Automatic Climate Control

System on page 8‑1

(If Equipped).

Dual Automatic Climate
Control System on page 8‑4

(If Equipped).

R. Power Door Locks on

page 2‑11.

Hazard Warning Flashers on
page 6‑4.

Passenger Sensing System on
page 3‑37.

S. Parking Brake on page 9‑33.

T. Shift Lever Position Indicator.

See Automatic Transmission on
page 9‑28.

U. Shift Lever. See Shifting Into

Park on page 9‑25.

V. Traction Control System (TCS)

on page 9‑36.

Electronic Stability Control
(ESC) on page 9‑37.

Ultrasonic Parking Assist on
page 9‑42.

Rear Window Sunshade
(If Equipped). See Rear

Window Sunshade on
page 2‑20.

W. Glove Box on page 4‑1.

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1-4 In Brief

Initial Drive Information

This section provides a brief
overview about some of the
important features that may
or may not be on your specific
vehicle.

For more detailed information, refer
to each of the features which can be
found later in this owner manual.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter will work up to 20 m
(65 ft) away from the vehicle.
On vehicles with remote start
the distance will be greater.

Press the button to extend the
key. The key can be used for all
locks. This key is also used for the
ignition, if the vehicle does not have
push-button start

K : Press to unlock the driver door

or all doors.

Q : Press to lock all doors.

Lock and unlock feedback can be
personalized.

V : Press and hold to open the

trunk.

7 : Press and release to locate

the vehicle. Press and hold for
more than two seconds to sound
the panic alarm. Press again to
cancel the panic alarm.

See Keys on page 2‑2 and Remote

Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation on page 2‑4.

Remote Vehicle Start

For vehicles with this feature, the
engine can be started from outside
of the vehicle.

Starting the Vehicle

1. Aim the Remote Keyless Entry
transmitter at the vehicle.

2. Press

3. Immediately after completing

Q.

Step 2, press and hold
the turn signal lamps flash, or for
about 2 seconds if the vehicle is
not in view.

/ until

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In Brief 1-5

When the vehicle starts, the parking
lamps will turn on and remain on
as long as the engine is running.
The doors will be locked and
the climate control system may
come on.

The engine will continue to run for
10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a
10-minute time extension. Remote
start can be extended only once.

Canceling a Remote Start

To cancel a remote start:

.

Aim the RKE transmitter at
the vehicle and press and

hold

/ until the parking

lamps turn off.

.

Turn on the hazard warning
flashers.

.

Turn the vehicle on and then off.

See Remote Vehicle Start on
page 2‑8.

Door Locks

To lock or unlock the doors:

.

From inside the vehicle, use
the door lock knob or the power
door lock controls, pull once on
the door handle to unlock it, and
a second time to open it.

.

From outside, use the key,
or press

Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
See Remote Keyless Entry

(RKE) System Operation on
page 2‑4.

See Door Locks on page 2‑10.

Q or K on the Remote

Power Door Locks

On vehicles with power door locks,
the controls are located on the
center of the instrument panel.

K : Press to unlock the doors.
Q : Press to lock the doors.

See Power Door Locks on
page 2‑11.

Trunk Release

The trunk may be opened by
pressing

Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or
the touchpad located on the rear of
the trunk above the license plate.
See Trunk on page 2‑12 for more
information.

V on the Remote

Windows

On vehicles with power windows,
the switches are on the driver door
armrest. Each passenger door has
a switch that controls only that
window.

Press the switch to lower the
window. Pull the switch up to
raise it.

For more information, see Power
Windows on page 2‑19.

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1-6 In Brief

Seat Adjustment

Manual Seats

A. Seatback Recline Lever

B. Height Adjustment Switch

C. Seat Position Handle

To adjust the seat position:

1. Pull the handle (C) under the
front of the seat cushion.

2. Slide the seat to the desired
position and release the handle.

3. Try to move the seat back and
forth to be sure it is locked in
place.

Press and hold the top or bottom of
the switch (B) to raise or lower the
seat. Release the switch when the
desired height is reached.

To raise or recline the seatback, use
the lever (A) on the outboard side of
the seat.

See Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4
and Reclining Seatbacks on
page 3‑8 for more information.

Power Seats

To adjust the seat:

.

Move the seat forward or
rearward by moving the
horizontal control forward
or rearward.

.

Raise or lower the front or
rear part of the seat cushion by
moving the front or rear of the
horizontal control up or down.

.

Raise or lower the entire seat by
moving the control up or down.

See Power Seat Adjustment on
page 3‑5.

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In Brief 1-7

Power Reclining Seatbacks

To raise or recline the seatback,
tilt the top of the vertical control
forward or rearward. See Reclining
Seatbacks on page 3‑8.

Lumbar Adjustment

To adjust the lumbar support:

.

Press and hold the front or rear
of the control to increase or
decrease lumbar support.

.

Press and hold the top or bottom
of the control to raise or lower
lumbar support.

See Lumbar Adjustment on
page 3‑7.

Memory Features

On vehicles with the memory
feature, the “1” and “2” buttons
on the outboard side of the driver
seat are used to manually save
and recall the driver seat and
outside mirror positions. These
manually stored positions are
referred to as Button Memory
positions.

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1-8 In Brief

The vehicle will also automatically
save driver seat and outside
mirror positions to the current
driver Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter when the ignition is
placed in OFF. These automatically
stored positions are referred to as
RKE Memory positions.

Storing Button Memory Positions

To save positions into Button
Memory:

1. Adjust the driver seat, seatback
recliner, and both outside mirrors
to the desired driving positions.

2. Press and release the
MEM (Memory) button.

3. Press “1” until a beep sounds.

4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 for a
second driver using “2.”

To recall the manually saved
Button Memory positions, press
and hold “1” or “2.” The driver seat
and outside mirrors move to the
positions stored to those buttons
when pressed. Releasing “1” or “2”
before the stored positions are
reached stops the recall.

To automatically recall RKE Memory
positions, unlock the driver door
with the RKE transmitter, and open
the driver door. On vehicles with
Keyless Access, opening the driver
door when an RKE transmitter
is present will activate the RKE
Memory recall. If the driver door
is already open, pressing the RKE
transmitter K button will also
activate the RKE Memory recall.
The driver seat and outside mirrors
will move to the previously saved
RKE Memory positions.

See “Memory Seats” under Power
Seat Adjustment on page 3‑5 for
more information.

Easy Exit Driver Seat

This feature moves the seat
rearward allowing the driver
more room to exit the vehicle.

To activate, place the ignition in
OFF and open the driver door. If the
driver door is already open, placing
the ignition in OFF will activate the
easy exit driver seat.

This feature is turned on or off
using the vehicle personalization
menu. See “Driver Seat Easy Exit”
under Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39 for more information.

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In Brief 1-9

Heated and Ventilated Seats

Heated and Ventilated

Seat Buttons Shown,

Heated Seat Buttons Similar

If available, the buttons are on the
climate control panel. To operate,
the ignition must be on.

Press

L to heat the seat cushion

and seatback or
to ventilate the seat.

Press the button once for the
highest setting. With each press
of the button, the seat will change
to the next lower setting, and then
to the off setting. The lights indicate
three for the highest setting and one
for the lowest.

For more information, see Heated

and Ventilated Front Seats on
page 3‑10.

{, if equipped,

Head Restraint Adjustment

Do not drive until the head restraints
for all occupants are installed and
adjusted properly.

To achieve a comfortable seating
position, change the seatback
recline angle as little as necessary
while keeping the seat and the
head restraint height in the proper
position.

For more information see Head

Restraints on page 3‑2 and
Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4.

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1-10 In Brief

Safety Belts

Refer to the following sections for
important information on how to use
safety belts properly.

.

Safety Belts on page 3‑13.

.

How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly on page 3‑17.

.

Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 3‑22.

.

Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Children (LATCH System) on
page 3‑52.

Sensing System for Passenger Airbag

The passenger sensing system will
turn off the right front passenger
frontal airbag under certain
conditions. The driver airbags,
seat‐mounted side impact airbags,
and roof‐rail airbags are not affected
by the passenger sensing system.

The passenger airbag status
indicator will be visible on the
instrument panel when the vehicle
is started. See Passenger Sensing
System on page 3‑37 for more
information.

Mirror Adjustment

Exterior

To adjust the mirrors:

1. Turn the control knob to the
L (left) or R (right) selecting the
driver or passenger mirror.

2. Push the control knob to the left,
right, up, or down to adjust the
mirror.

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In Brief 1-11

Vehicles with the memory feature
can store a preferred mirror position.
See “Memory Seats” under Power
Seat Adjustment on page 3‑5 for
more information.

See Power Mirrors on page 2‑16.

Manual Foldaway Mirrors

Vehicles with manual folded
mirrors are folded inward to
prevent damage when going
through an automatic car wash.
To fold, pull the mirror toward the
vehicle. Push the mirror outward,
to return it to the original position.

Automatic Dimming Feature

The driver outside mirror
automatically adjusts for the glare
of the headlamps behind you.

See Power Mirrors on page 2‑16.

See Folding Mirrors on page 2‑17.

Interior

Adjust this mirror for a clear view of
the area behind the vehicle. Hold
the mirror in the center to move it
up, down, or side-to-side. To reduce
headlamp glare from behind, push
the tab forward for daytime and pull
it for nighttime use.

Vehicles with OnStar
control buttons at the bottom of the
mirror. See your dealer for more
information on the system and how
to subscribe to OnStar. See the

®

OnStar
information about the services
OnStar provides.

See Manual Rearview Mirror on
page 2‑18.

owner's guide for more

®

have three

Steering Wheel Adjustment

To adjust the steering wheel:

1. Pull the lever (A) down.

2. Move the steering wheel up
or down.

3. Pull or push the steering wheel
closer or away from you.

4. Pull the lever (A) up to lock the
steering wheel in place.

Do not adjust the steering wheel
while driving.

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1-12 In Brief

Interior Lighting

Dome Lamps

The interior lamps control located in
the overhead console controls both
the front and rear interior lamps.

To operate, press the following
buttons:

( : Turns the lamps off.
H : Turns the lamps on when any

door is opened.

' : Keeps the lamps on all

the time.

Reading Lamps

There are front and rear reading
lamps.

The front reading lamps are located
in the overhead console.

# $ : Press to turn each lamp on

or off.

The rear reading lamps are located
in the headliner.

For more information on interior
lighting, see Instrument Panel
Illumination Control on page 6‑5.

Exterior Lighting

The exterior lamp control is located
on the instrument panel on the
outboard side of the steering wheel.

Turn the control to the following
positions:

O : Turns off the exterior

lamps. The knob returns to the
AUTO position after it is released.
Turn to off again to reactivate the
AUTO mode.

AUTO: Automatically turns
the exterior lamps on and off,
depending on outside lighting.

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In Brief 1-13

The current status of the AUTO
system is displayed in the Driver
Information Center (DIC) uplevel
display. See Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑25.

; : Turns on the parking lamps,

together with the sidemarker lamps,
taillamps, license plate lamps, and
instrument panel lights.

2 : Turns on the headlamps,

together with the parking lamps,
sidemarker lamps, taillamps, license
plate lamps, and instrument panel
lights.

For more information, see:

.

Exterior Lamp Controls on
page 6‑1.

.

Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
on page 6‑3.

.

Fog Lamps on page 6‑5.

Windshield Wiper/Washer

The windshield wiper lever
is on the side of the steering
column. With the ignition in
ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN,
move the windshield wiper lever
to select the wiper speed.

2: Fast wipes.

1: Slow wipes.

& : Turn the band up for more

frequent wipes or down for less
frequent wipes.

9 : Turns the windshield

wipers off.

3 : Briefly move the wiper lever

down for a single wipe or hold down
for several wipes.

Windshield Washer

Pull the windshield wiper lever to
spray windshield washer fluid and
activate the wipers.

See Windshield Wiper/Washer on
page 5‑3.

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1-14 In Brief

Climate Controls

The heating, cooling, and ventilation for the vehicle can be controlled with
these systems.

Automatic Climate Control System

A. Power

B. Temperature Control

C. Fan Control

D. Air Delivery Mode Control

E. Recirculation

F. AUTO

G. Defrost

H. Air Conditioning

I. Rear Window Defogger

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In Brief 1-15

Dual Automatic Climate Control System

A. Power

B. Driver Temperature Control

C. Defrost

D. Fan Control

E. Air Delivery Mode Control

F. Recirculation/Automatic

Recirculation

G. Passenger Temperature Control

H. AUTO

Transmission

Automatic Transmission

Driver Shift Control (DSC)

Driver Shift Control (DSC) allows
shifting an automatic transmission
similar to a manual transmission.
DSC can be enabled through the
shift lever. See Manual Mode on
page 9‑30.

I. Rear Window Defogger

J. Heated Steering Wheel

K. Air Conditioning

L. ZONE

See Automatic Climate Control
System on page 8‑1 (If Equipped)
or Dual Automatic Climate Control
System on page 8‑4 (If Equipped).

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1-16 In Brief

Vehicle Features

Radio(s)

VOL/O : Press to turn the system

on and off. Turn to increase or
decrease the volume.

RADIO/BAND: Press to choose
between FM, AM, or XM™,
if equipped.

TUNE: Turn to select radio
stations.

g : Press to seek the previous

station or track.

l : Press to seek the next station

or track.

Buttons 1‐6: Press to save and
select favorite stations

INFO: Press to show available
information about the current station
or track.

For more information about
these and other radio features,
see Operation on page 7‑7.

Storing a Favorite Station

Stations from all bands can be
stored in the favorite lists in any
order. Up to six stations can be
stored in each favorite page and
the number of available favorite
pages can be set.

To store the station to a position
in the list, press the corresponding
numeric button 1-6 until the station
can be heard again.

For more information, see “Storing
and Retrieving Favorites” in AM-FM
Radio on page 7‑12.

Setting the Clock

Adjusting the Time

1. Press the CONFIG button
and select Time Settings,

or press

2. Select Set Time.

H.

3. Turn the Menu knob to adjust
the highlighted number.

4. Press the SELECT button to
select the next number.

5. To save the time and return to
the Time Settings menu, press
the BACK button at any time or
press the SELECT button after
adjusting the minutes.

Setting the 12/24 Hour Format

1. Press the CONFIG button
and select Time Settings,

or press

2. Highlight 12/24 Hour Format.

3. Press the SELECT button to
select the 12 hour or 24 hour
display format.

For detailed instructions on setting
the clock, see Clock (Without Date

Display) on page 5‑5 or Clock (With
Date Display) on page 5‑6.

H.

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In Brief 1-17

Satellite Radio

Vehicles with an XM™ Satellite
Radio tuner and a valid XM Satellite
Radio subscription can receive XM
programming.

XM Satellite Radio Service

XM is a satellite radio service
based in the 48 contiguous
United States and 10 Canadian
provinces. XM Satellite Radio has
a wide variety of programming and
commercial-free music, coast to
coast, and in digital-quality sound.
A fee is required to receive the XM
service.

For more information refer to:

.

www.xmradio.com or call
1-800-929-2100 (U.S.).

.

www.xmradio.ca or call
1-877-438-9677 (Canada).

For more information, see Satellite
Radio on page 7‑15.

Portable Audio Devices

This vehicle has a 3.5 mm (1/8 in)
auxiliary input and a USB port
located in the center console.
External devices such as iPods
laptop computers, MP3 players,
CD changers, and USB storage
devices may be connected,
depending on the audio system.

For more information, see Auxiliary

Devices (Radio with CD) on
page 7‑31 or Auxiliary Devices
(Radio with CD/DVD and MEM) on
page 7‑34.

®

,

Bluetooth

The Bluetooth®system allows
users with a Bluetooth-enabled
cell phone to make and receive
hands-free calls using the vehicle
audio system, microphone, and
controls.

The Bluetooth-enabled cell phone
must be paired with the in-vehicle
Bluetooth system before it can be
used in the vehicle. Not all phones
will support all functions.

See Bluetooth (Overview) on

page 7‑46 or Bluetooth
(Infotainment Controls) on
page 7‑48 or Bluetooth (Voice
Recognition) on page 7‑53.

®

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1-18 In Brief

Steering Wheel Controls

For vehicles with audio steering
wheel controls, some audio controls
can be adjusted at the steering
wheel.

b g : Press to interact with

the available Bluetooth, OnStar,
or navigation system.

$ i : Press to silence the

vehicle speakers only. Press again
to turn the sound on. For vehicles
with OnStar or Bluetooth systems,
press to reject an incoming call,
or to end a current call.

_ SRC ^ : Turn _ or ^ to select a

radio band or audio source.

Turn

_ or ^ to select the next or

previous favorite radio station, CD,
DVD track/chapter (with navigation),
or MP3 track.

Press SRC to change between
radio and CD or DVD.

x −: Press + to increase or − to

+

decrease the volume.

For more information, see Steering
Wheel Controls on page 5‑2.

Cruise Control

The cruise control buttons are
located on the steering wheel.

5 : Press to turn the cruise control

system on and off. An indicator light
will turn on or off in the instrument
panel cluster.

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In Brief 1-19

\ : Press to disengage cruise

control without erasing the set
speed from memory.

RES/+ : Move the thumbwheel
up to make the vehicle resume
to a previously set speed or to
accelerate.

SET/− : Move the thumbwheel
down to set the speed and activate
cruise control or make the vehicle
decelerate.

See Cruise Control on page 9‑39.

Navigation System

If the vehicle has a navigation
system, there is a separate
Navigation System Manual that
includes information on the radio,
audio players, and navigation
system.

The navigation system provides
detailed maps of most major
freeways and roads. After a
destination has been set, the
system provides turn-by-turn
instructions for reaching the
destination. In addition, the system
can help locate a variety of points
of interest (POIs), such as banks,
airports, restaurants, and more.

See the Navigation System Manual
for more information.

Driver Information Center (DIC)

The DIC display is located in the
center of the instrument panel
cluster. It shows the status of many
vehicle systems. The controls for
the DIC are located on the turn
signal lever.

A. SET/CLR: Press to set or

clear the menu item when
it is displayed.

B.

w x: Use the thumbwheel

to scroll through the items in
each menu.

C. MENU: Press to get to the

Trip/Fuel Menu and the Vehicle
Information Menu. This button
is also used to return to or exit
the last screen displayed on
the DIC.

For more information, see Driver

Information Center (DIC) on
page 5‑25.

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1-20 In Brief

Vehicle Personalization

Some vehicle features can be
programmed by using the audio
system controls. These features
include:

.

Climate and Air Quality

.

Comfort and Convenience

.

Collision/Detection Systems

.

Language

.

Lighting

.

Power Door Locks

.

Remote Lock/Unlock/Start

See Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39.

Power Outlets

The accessory power outlets can be
used to plug in electrical equipment,
such as a cell phone or MP3 player.

There are two accessory power
outlets. One is located under the
armrest inside the center console
storage and the other is on the rear
of the center floor console.

Remove the cover to access and
replace when not in use.

See Power Outlets on page 5‑7.

Universal Remote System

This system provides a way
to replace up to three remote
control transmitters used to
activate devices such as garage
door openers, security systems,
and home automation devices.

Read the instructions completely
before attempting to program
the Universal Home Remote.
Because of the steps involved,
it may be helpful to have another
person available to assist you with
programming the Universal Home
Remote.

See Universal Remote System on
page 5‑45.

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Sunroof

On vehicles with a sunroof, the
switch is located on the overhead
console.

The sunroof only operates
when the ignition is in ON/RUN
or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in
Retained Accessory Power (RAP).
See Retained Accessory Power

(RAP) on page 9‑24

Vent: The sunroof has an
express-vent open feature.
From the closed position, press
the rear of the sunroof switch (B) to
the first detent to vent the sunroof.
To close the sunroof, press the front
of the sunroof switch (A) to the
second detent.

Express-open/Express-close:

To express-open the sunroof from
the closed or vent position, fully
press and release the rear of the
switch (B). The sunroof opens
automatically. To stop the sunroof
partway, press the switch a second
time. To express-close the sunroof,
fully press and release the front of
the switch (A). The sunroof closes
automatically. To stop the sunroof
partway, press the switch a
second time.

If the sunshade is closed, it opens
automatically with the sunroof
but can also be express-opened/
express-closed by using the
sunshade control (C) or (D).
The sunshade cannot be fully
closed with the sunroof open.

To express-open the sunshade from
the closed position, fully press and
release the rear of the switch (C).
The sunshade opens automatically.
To stop the sunshade partway,
press the switch a second time.
To express-close the sunshade
fully press and release the front
of the switch (D). The sunshade
closes automatically. To stop the
sunshade partway, press the switch
a second time.

Notice: Forcing the sunshade
forward of the sliding glass
panel may cause damage and
the sunroof may not operate
properly. Always close the
glass panel before closing
the sunshade.

The sunroof glass panel cannot be
opened or closed if the vehicle has
an electrical failure.

See Sunroof on page 2‑21.

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1-22 In Brief

Performance and Maintenance

Traction Control System (TCS)

The traction control system limits
wheel spin. The system turns on
automatically every time the vehicle
is started.

.

To turn off traction control,
press and release

on the console to the right of
the shifter.

the appropriate DIC message
is displayed. See Electronic

Stability Control (ESC)/Traction
Control System (TCS) Indicator/
Warning Light on page 5‑22.

.

Press and release the button
again to turn on traction control.

For more information, see Traction

Control System (TCS) on
page 9‑36.

i illuminates and

g located

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The Electronic Stability
Control (ESC) system assists
with directional control of the
vehicle in difficult driving conditions.
The system turns on automatically
every time the vehicle is started.

.

To turn off both traction control
and ESC, press and hold

located on the console to
the right of the shifter, until

illuminates and the appropriate
DIC message is displayed.
See Electronic Stability Control

(ESC)/Traction Control System
(TCS) Indicator/Warning Light on
page 5‑22.

.

Press and release the button to
turn on both systems.

For more information, see Electronic

Stability Control (ESC) on
page 9‑37.

g,

g

Tire Pressure Monitor

This vehicle may have a Tire
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).

The TPMS warning light alerts you
to a significant loss in pressure
of one of the vehicle's tires. If the
warning light comes on, stop as
soon as possible and inflate the
tires to the recommended pressure
shown on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑12. The warning
light will remain on until the tire
pressure is corrected.

During cooler conditions, the low tire
pressure warning light may appear
when the vehicle is first started and
then turn off. This may be an early

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In Brief 1-23

indicator that the tire pressures are
getting low and the tires need to be
inflated to the proper pressure.

The TPMS does not replace normal
monthly tire maintenance. It is the
driver’s responsibility to maintain
correct tire pressures.

See Tire Pressure Monitor System
on page 10‑56.

Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit

This vehicle may come with a jack
and spare tire or a tire sealant and
compressor kit. The kit can be used
to temporarily seal small punctures
in the tread area of the tire.

See Tire Sealant and Compressor
Kit on page 10‑72 for complete
operating information.

If the vehicle came with a jack and
spare tire, see If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑70.

Engine Oil Life System

The engine oil life system calculates
engine oil life based on vehicle use
and displays the CHANGE ENGINE
OIL SOON message when it is time
to change the engine oil and filter.
The oil life system should be reset
to 100% only following an oil
change.

Resetting the Oil Life System

1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with
the engine off.

2. Press the DIC menu button on
the turn signal lever to enter
the Vehicle Information Menu.
Use the thumbwheel to scroll
through the menu items until you
reach REMAINING OIL LIFE.

3. Press the SET/CLR button to
reset the oil life at 100%.

4. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

See Engine Oil Life System on
page 10‑13.

Driving for Better Fuel Economy

Driving habits can affect fuel
mileage. Here are some driving
tips to get the best fuel economy
possible.

.

Avoid fast starts and accelerate
smoothly.

.

Brake gradually and avoid
abrupt stops.

.

Avoid idling the engine for long
periods of time.

.

When road and weather
conditions are appropriate,
use cruise control.

.

Always follow posted speed
limits or drive more slowly when
conditions require.

.

Keep vehicle tires properly
inflated.

.

Combine several trips into a
single trip.

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1-24 In Brief

.

Replace the vehicle's tires with
the same TPC Spec number
molded into the tire's sidewall
near the size.

.

Follow recommended scheduled
maintenance.

Roadside Assistance Program

U.S.: 1-800-252-1112

TTY Users (U.S.): 1-888-889-2438

Canada: 1-800-268-6800

Mexico: 01-800-466-0818

As the owner of a new Buick, you
are automatically enrolled in the
Roadside Assistance program.

See Roadside Assistance Program

(U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8
or Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑10 for more

information.

Roadside Service and OnStar
(U.S. and Canada)

If you have an active OnStar
subscription, press the

and the current GPS location will
be sent to an OnStar Advisor who
will assess your problem, contact
Roadside Assistance, and relay
your exact location to get the help
you need.

Online Owner Center
(U.S. and Canada)

The Online Owner Center is a
complimentary service that includes
online service reminders, vehicle
maintenance tips, online owner
manual, special privileges,
and more.

Sign up today at:

www.buickownercenter.com
(U.S.) or www.gm.ca (Canada).

Q button

OnStar

For vehicles with an active OnStar
subscription, OnStar uses several
innovative technologies and live
Advisors to provide a wide range
of safety, security, navigation,
diagnostics, and calling services.

Automatic Crash Response

In a crash, built‐in sensors can
automatically alert an OnStar
Advisor who is immediately
connected to the vehicle to
see if you need help.

®

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How OnStar Service Works

Q : Push this blue button to

connect to a specially trained
OnStar Advisor to verify your
account information and to
answer questions.

] : Push this red emergency

button to get priority help from
specially trained OnStar Emergency
Advisors.

X : Push this button for hands‐free,

voice‐activated calling and to give
voice commands for Hands‐Free
Calling and Turn‐by‐Turn
Navigation.

Automatic Crash Response,
Emergency Services, Crisis Assist,
Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle
Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock,
Roadside Assistance, Turn‐by‐Turn
Navigation, and Hands‐Free Calling
are available on most vehicles.

Not all OnStar services are
available on all vehicles.
For more information, see
the OnStar Owner's Guide;
visit www.onstar.com (U.S.) or
www.onstar.ca (Canada); contact
OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR
(1‐888‐466‐7827) or TTY
1‐877‐248‐2080; or push

Q button to speak with an

the
OnStar Advisor 24 hours a day,
7 days a week.

For a full description of OnStar
services and system limitations,
see the OnStar Owner's Guide in
the glove box.

OnStar service is subject to the
OnStar Terms and Conditions
included in the OnStar Glove
Box Kit.

OnStar service requires wireless
communication networks and the
Global Positioning System (GPS)

satellite network. Not all OnStar
services are available everywhere
or on all vehicles at all times.

OnStar service can’t work unless
the vehicle is in a place where
OnStar has an agreement with
a wireless service provider for
service in that area, and the
wireless service provider has
coverage, network capacity,
reception, and technology
compatible with OnStar service.
Service involving location
information about the vehicle
can’t work unless GPS signals
are available, unobstructed,
and compatible with the OnStar
hardware. The vehicle has to have
a working electrical system and
adequate battery power for the
OnStar equipment to operate.

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1-26 In Brief

OnStar service may not work
if the OnStar equipment isn’t
properly installed or you haven’t
maintained it and the vehicle
is in good working order and in
compliance with all government
regulations. If you try to add,
connect, or modify any equipment
or software in the vehicle, OnStar
service may not work. Other
problems OnStar can’t control
may prevent service to you, such
as hills, tall buildings, tunnels,
weather, electrical system design
and architecture of the vehicle,
damage to important parts of the
vehicle in a crash, or wireless phone
network congestion or jamming.

See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑20 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission
(FCC) rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-210/220/310.

OnStar Steering Wheel
Controls

This vehicle may have a Talk/Mute
button that can be used to interact
with OnStar Hands-Free calling.
See Steering Wheel Controls on
page 5‑2 for more information.

On some vehicles, the Talk button
can be used to dial numbers into
voice mail systems, or to dial phone
extensions. See the OnStar Owner's
Guide for more information.

Your Responsibility

Increase the volume of the radio
if the OnStar Advisor cannot be
heard.

If the light next to the OnStar
buttons is red, the system may
not be functioning properly.

Push the
vehicle diagnostic check. If the light
appears clear (no light appears),
your OnStar subscription has
expired and all services have been

deactivated. Push the
confirm that the OnStar equipment
is active.

Q button and request a

Q button to

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Keys, Doors and Windows 2-1

Keys, Doors and Windows

Keys and Locks

Keys . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . .. . . . .. . . . . 2-2

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)

System . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 2-3

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)

System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . .. . . 2-12

Safety Locks . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 2-12

Doors

Trunk . . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Vehicle Security

Vehicle Security . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 2-14

Anti-Theft Alarm System . . . . . 2-14

Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Immobilizer Operation

(Key Access) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Immobilizer Operation

(Keyless Access) . . . . . . .. . . . 2-15

Exterior Mirrors

Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 2-16

Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 2-17

Park Tilt Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 2-17

Interior Mirrors

Manual Rearview Mirror . . . . .. 2-18

Windows

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 2-18

Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19

Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . 2-20

Rear Window Sunshade . . . . . 2-20

Roof

Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . 2-21

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2-2 Keys, Doors and Windows

Keys and Locks

Keys

WARNING

{

Leaving children in a vehicle with
the ignition key is dangerous for
many reasons. Children or others
could be badly injured or even
killed. They could operate the
power windows or other controls
or even make the vehicle move.
The windows will function with the
keys in the ignition and children
could be seriously injured or killed
if caught in the path of a closing
window. Do not leave the keys in
a vehicle with children.

WARNING

{

Leaving children in a vehicle with
the keyless access transmitter
is dangerous for many reasons,
children or others could be badly
injured or even killed. They could
operate the power windows or
other controls or even make the
vehicle move. The windows will
function with the keyless access
transmitter in the vehicle and they
could be seriously injured or killed
if caught in the path of a closing
window. Do not leave the keyless
access transmitter in a vehicle
with children.

The key that is part of the Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter
can be used for the ignition and
all locks if the vehicle is a key
access vehicle. If the vehicle has
the keyless ignition, the key can
be used for the locks.

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Keys, Doors and Windows 2-3

Press the button on the RKE
transmitter to extend the key.
Press the button and the key
blade to retract the key.

See your dealer if a new key is
needed.

Notice: If the keys get locked
in the vehicle, it may have to
be damaged to get them out.
Always carry a spare key.

If you are locked out of the vehicle,
see Roadside Assistance Program

(U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8
or Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑10.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑20 for information

regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission
(FCC) rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-210/220/310.

If there is a decrease in the RKE
operating range:

.

Check the distance.
The transmitter may be
too far from the vehicle.

.

Check the location. Other
vehicles or objects may be
blocking the signal.

.

Check the transmitter's battery.
See “Battery Replacement” later
in this section.

.

If the transmitter is still not
working correctly, see your
dealer or a qualified technician
for service.

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2-4 Keys, Doors and Windows

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation

The transmitter functions will work
up to 20 m (65 ft) away from the
vehicle. On vehicles with remote
start the distance will be greater.

Keep in mind that other conditions,
such as those previously stated,
can impact the performance of the
transmitter.

RKE without Remote Start Shown

Q (Lock): Press to lock all doors.

The turn signal indicators may
flash and/or the horn may sound
to indicate locking, see “Locking
Feedback” under Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑39.

If the driver door is open when
pressed, all doors lock except the
driver door, if enabled through the
vehicle personalization.

If the passenger door is open
when

Q is pressed, all doors lock.

Pressing
the theft-deterrent system.
See Anti-Theft Alarm System on
page 2‑14.

Q may also arm

Q is

K (Unlock): Press to unlock the

driver door or all doors. See “Door
Unlock Options” under Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑39.

The turn signal indicators may
flash and/or the horn may
sound to indicate unlocking.

See “Unlock Feedback” under

Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39.

Pressing
the theft-deterrent system.
See Anti-Theft Alarm System on
page 2‑14.

Memory seat positions may be
recalled when unlocking the vehicle.
See “Memory Seats” under Power
Seat Adjustment on page 3‑5 and

“Remote Recall” under Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑39

for more information.

V (Remote Trunk Release):

Press and hold to unlock the trunk.

K will disarm

7 (Vehicle Locator/Panic

Alarm): Press and release
one time to locate the vehicle.
The exterior lamps flash and
the horn chirps.

Press and hold
two seconds to sound the panic
alarm. The horn sounds and the

turn signals flash until
again or the vehicle is started.

7 for at least

7 is pressed

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/ (Remote Vehicle Start): For

vehicles with this feature, press
and then press and hold / within

five seconds to start the engine from
outside the vehicle using the RKE
transmitter. See Remote Vehicle
Start on page 2‑8 for additional
information.

Keyless Access Operation

Some vehicles have a keyless
access system that lets you lock
and unlock the doors and access
the trunk without removing the RKE
transmitter from your pocket, purse,
briefcase, etc. The RKE transmitter
should be within 1 m (3 ft) of the
door or trunk being opened.

Q

Keyless Unlocking

With the RKE transmitter within
1 m (3 ft), approach the front door
and pull the handle to unlock and
open the door. If the transmitter is
recognized, the door will unlock
and open.

Entering any door other than the
driver door will always cause all
of the doors to unlock. This is not
customizable.

To customize which doors unlock
when the driver door is opened,
see “Door Unlock Options” under

Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39.

Lock Sensor

When all doors are closed and the
ignition is off, the vehicle can be
locked by pressing this area on the
door handle. This feature will be
available for several minutes after
the vehicle has been turned off.

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Keyless Trunk Opening

Lift up on the touch pad located
above the license plate to open the
trunk if the RKE transmitter is within
range.

Programming Transmitters to
the Vehicle

Only RKE transmitters
programmed to the vehicle
will work. If a transmitter is lost
or stolen, a replacement can
be purchased and programmed
through your dealer. The vehicle
can be reprogrammed so that lost
or stolen transmitters no longer
work. Any remaining transmitters
will need to be reprogrammed.
Each vehicle can have up to
five transmitters matched to it.

Programming with a Recognized
Transmitter (Keyless Access
Vehicles Only)

A new transmitter can be
programmed to the vehicle
when there is one recognized
transmitter. To program, the
vehicle must be off and all of
the transmitters, both currently
recognized and new, must be
with you.

1. Place the recognized
transmitter(s) in the cupholder.

2. Insert the vehicle key of the
new transmitter into the key lock
cylinder located on the outside
of the driver door and turn the
key to the unlock position five
times within 10 seconds.

The Driver Information
Center (DIC) displays READY
FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4 or 5.

3. Place the new transmitter
into the transmitter pocket.
The transmitter pocket is
located inside the center
console storage area under
the cupholder. The cupholder
will need to be pulled out to
access the transmitter pocket.

4. Press the ignition. When the
transmitter is learned, the DIC
will show that it is ready to
program the next transmitter.

5. Remove the transmitter from the
transmitter pocket and press

To program additional
transmitters, repeat Steps 3
through 5.

When all additional transmitters
are programmed, press and hold
the ignition for 10 seconds to
exit programming mode.

K.

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Programming without a
Recognized Transmitter
(Keyless Access Vehicles Only)

If there are no currently recognized
transmitters available, follow this
procedure to program up to five
transmitters. This feature is not
available in Canada. This procedure
will take approximately 30 minutes
to complete. The vehicle must be
off and all of the transmitters you
wish to program must be with you.

1. Insert the vehicle key of the
transmitter into the key lock
cylinder located on the outside
of the driver door and turn the
key to the unlock position five
times within 10 seconds.

The Driver Information Center
(DIC) displays REMOTE LEARN
PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.

2. Wait for 10 minutes until the
DIC displays PRESS ENGINE
START BUTTON TO LEARN
and then press the ignition.

The DIC displays will again
show REMOTE LEARN
PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.

3. Repeat Step 2 two additional
times. After the third time all
previously known transmitters
will no longer work with the
vehicle. Remaining transmitters
can be relearned during the
next steps.

The DIC display should
now show READY FOR
REMOTE # 1.

4. Place the new transmitter
into the transmitter pocket.
The transmitter pocket is
located inside the center
console storage area under
the cupholder. The cupholder
will need to be pulled out to
access the transmitter pocket.

5. Press the ignition. When the
transmitter is learned the DIC
will show that it is ready to
program the next transmitter.

6. Remove the transmitter from the
transmitter pocket and press

To program additional
transmitters, repeat Steps 4
through 6.

When all additional transmitters
are programmed, press and hold
the ignition for 10 seconds to
exit programming mode.

K.

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Starting the Vehicle with a Low
Transmitter Battery

If the transmitter battery is weak,
the DIC may display NO REMOTE
DETECTED when you try to
start the vehicle. The REPLACE
BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY
message may also be displayed
at this time.

To start the vehicle:

1. Remove the cupholder from the
center console storage area.

2. Place the transmitter in the
transmitter pocket with the
buttons facing up.

3. With the vehicle in P (Park) or
N (Neutral), press the brake
pedal and the ignition control.
See Starting the Engine on
page 9‑20 for additional
information about the vehicle's
keyless ignition with push start.

Replace the transmitter battery
as soon as possible.

Battery Replacement

Replace the battery if the REPLACE
BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY
message displays in the DIC.
See “Replace Battery in Remote
Key” under Key and Lock Messages
on page 5‑36.

The battery is not rechargeable.
To replace the battery:

1. Push the button on the
transmitter to extend the key.

2. Remove the battery cover by
prying it with a finger.

3. Remove the battery by pushing
on the battery and sliding it
toward the keyblade.

4. Insert the new battery, positive
side facing up. Push the battery
down until it is held in place.
Replace with a CR2032 or
equivalent battery.

5. Snap the battery cover back on
to the transmitter.

Remote Vehicle Start

If available, this feature allows the
engine to be started from outside
the vehicle.

/ button will be on the RKE

The
transmitter if the vehicle has remote
start.

Laws in some local communities
may restrict the use of remote
starters. For example, some laws
may require a person using remote
start to have the vehicle in view.
Check local regulations for any
requirements.

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Starting the Engine Using Remote
Start

To start the engine using the remote
start feature:

1. Aim the Remote Keyless Entry
transmitter at the vehicle.

2. Press

3. Immediately after completing

Turn the ignition to ON/RUN
(key access), or select the
ON/RUN/START ignition position
(keyless access), to drive the
vehicle.

Q.

Step 2, press and hold
the turn signal lamps flash, or for
about 2 seconds if the vehicle is
not in view.

Once the vehicle is started, the
parking lamps will turn on and
remain on as long as the engine
is running.

/ until

The engine will shut off after
10 minutes unless a time
extension is done or the ignition
is put in ON/RUN (key access) or
ON/RUN/START (keyless access).

Vehicles with an automatic climate
control system will default to a
heating or cooling mode depending
on the outside temperature during a
remote start. When the key is turned
to ON/RUN (key access), or the
ON/RUN/START ignition position
is selected (keyless access), the
climate control system will turn on
at the setting the vehicle was set to
when the vehicle was last turned off.
Vehicles with heated or heated and
ventilated front seats can have this
feature turn on automatically during
a remote start. See “Remote Start
Heated Seats” and “Remote Start
Vented Seats” under Vehicle

Personalization on page 5‑39

for more information.

Extending Engine Run Time

For a 10-minute extension, repeat
Steps 1 and 2 while the engine is
still running. The remote start can
only be extended once.

When the remote start is extended,
the second 10 minutes will start
immediately.

For example, if the vehicle has
been running for five minutes, and
10 minutes are added, the engine
will run for a total of 15 minutes.

A maximum of two remote starts or
remote start attempts are allowed
between ignition cycles.

The vehicle's ignition must be
turned on and then back off before
the remote start procedure can be
used again.

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.

Canceling a Remote Start

To cancel a remote start, do any of
the following:

.

Aim the RKE transmitter at the
vehicle and press and hold

/

until the parking lamps turn off.

.

Turn on the hazard warning
flashers.

.

Turn the vehicle on and then off.

Conditions in Which Remote Start
Will Not Work

The remote start will not operate if:

.

The key is in the ignition (key
access) or the ignition is in any
position other than OFF (keyless
access).

The transmitter is in the vehicle
(keyless access).

.

The hood is not closed.

.

The hazard warning flashers
are on.

.

There is an emission control
system malfunction.

.

The engine coolant temperature
is too high.

.

The oil pressure is low.

.

Two remote vehicle starts have
already been used.

.

The vehicle is not in P (Park).

Door Locks

WARNING

{

Unlocked doors can be
dangerous.

.

Passengers, especially
children, can easily open
the doors and fall out
of a moving vehicle.
The chance of being thrown
out of the vehicle in a crash
is increased if the doors
are not locked. So, all
passengers should wear
safety belts properly and
the doors should be locked
whenever the vehicle is
driven.

(Continued)

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WARNING (Continued)

.

Young children who get into
unlocked vehicles may be
unable to get out. A child can
be overcome by extreme heat
and can suffer permanent
injuries or even death from
heat stroke. Always lock the
vehicle whenever leaving it.

.

Outsiders can easily enter
through an unlocked door
when slowing or stopping
the vehicle. Lock the doors
to help prevent this from
happening.

To lock and unlock the door, use
the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter or the key from the
outside and the door lock knob
or switch from the inside.

From inside the vehicle with the
doors locked, pull once on the door
handle to unlock it, and a second
time to open it.

Manually locking the driver door
also automatically locks all other
doors.

For more information see:

.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation on page 2‑4.

.

Power Door Locks on page 2‑11.

.

Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39.

Power Door Locks

K (Unlock): Press to unlock all

doors.

Q (Lock): Press to lock all doors.

See “Power Door Locks” in Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑39.

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Delayed Locking

When locking the doors with
the power lock switch and a
door is open, the doors will lock
five seconds after the last door is
closed. You will hear three chimes
to signal that the delayed locking
feature is in use.

Pressing the power lock switch
twice or the lock button on the
RKE transmitter twice will override
the delayed locking feature and
immediately lock all the doors.

This feature will not operate if the
key is in the ignition.

This feature can be programmed by
using the Driver Information Center
(DIC). See “Delayed Door Lock”
under Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39.

Safety Locks

Press the button on the driver door
armrest to activate the safety locks
on the passenger rear doors.

This switch also disables the rear
power windows.

Once activated, the light, located on
the switch, illuminates and goes out
when deactivated.

If the light flashes, the feature may
not be working properly.

Doors

Trunk

WARNING

{

Exhaust gases can enter the
vehicle if it is driven with the
liftgate, trunk/hatch open, or
with any objects that pass
through the seal between the
body and the trunk/hatch or
liftgate. Engine exhaust contains
Carbon Monoxide (CO) which
cannot be seen or smelled.
It can cause unconsciousness
and even death.

(Continued)

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WARNING (Continued)

If the vehicle must be driven with
the liftgate, or trunk/hatch open:

.

Close all of the windows.

.

Fully open the air outlets
on or under the instrument
panel.

.

Adjust the Climate Control
system to a setting that
brings in only outside air
and set the fan speed to the
highest setting. See Climate
Control System in the Index.

.

If the vehicle has a power
liftgate, disable the power
liftgate function.

For more information about
carbon monoxide, see Engine
Exhaust on page 9‑27.

Remote Trunk Release

To open the trunk from the outside
the vehicle, press

V on the

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter, or press the touchpad
above the license plate.

Emergency Trunk Release
Handle

Notice: Do not use the
emergency trunk release handle
as a tie-down or anchor point
when securing items in the trunk
as it could damage the handle.
The emergency trunk release
handle is only intended to aid a
person trapped in a latched trunk,
enabling them to open the trunk
from the inside.

There is an emergency trunk
release handle located inside the
trunk on the trunk latch. On some
vehicles, the release handle can be
accessed by folding the rear seat
center seatback. See Rear Seats on
page 3‑11. Pull the release handle
to open the trunk from the inside.

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Vehicle Security

This vehicle has theft-deterrent
features; however, they do not make
it impossible to steal.

Anti-Theft Alarm System

This vehicle has an anti-theft alarm
system.

Arming the System

To arm the system, press Q on the
RKE transmitter.

The alarm automatically arms after
about 30 seconds. The security
light, located on the instrument
panel, flashes.

V on the RKE transmitter to

Press
open the trunk without setting off the
alarm. The system rearms when the
trunk is closed.

Disarming the System

To disarm the system, do one of the
following:

.

Press K on the RKE transmitter.

.

Approach the vehicle with
the RKE transmitter (keyless
access).

.

Start the engine.

The alarm automatically disarms.

How to Detect a Tamper
Condition

If K is pressed and the horn
sounds, an attempted break-in
has occurred while the system
was armed.

If the alarm has been activated, the
THEFT ATTEMPTED message will
appear on the DIC. See Key and
Lock Messages on page 5‑36 for
additional information.

Immobilizer

See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑20 for information

regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission
(FCC) rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-210/220/310.

Immobilizer Operation (Key Access)

This vehicle has a passive
theft-deterrent system.

The system does not have to be
manually armed or disarmed.

The vehicle is automatically
immobilized when the key is
removed from the ignition.

The system is automatically
disarmed when the vehicle is
started with the correct key.

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The key uses a transponder that
matches an immobilizer control unit
in the vehicle and automatically
disarms the system. Only the
correct key starts the vehicle.
The vehicle may not start if the
key is damaged.

The security light, located in the
instrument panel cluster, comes on
if there is a problem with arming
or disarming the theft-deterrent
system.

When trying to start the vehicle, the
security light comes on briefly when
the ignition is turned on.

If the engine does not start and the
security light stays on, there is a
problem with the system. Turn the
ignition off and try again.

If the engine still does not start, and
the key appears to be undamaged
or the light continues to stay on,
try another ignition key.

If the engine still does not start
with the other key, the vehicle needs
service. If the vehicle does start,
the first key may be damaged.
See your dealer who can service
the theft-deterrent system and
have a new key made.

Do not leave the key or device
that disarms or deactivates the
theft-deterrent system in the vehicle.

Immobilizer Operation (Keyless Access)

This vehicle has a passive
theft-deterrent system.

The system does not have to be
manually armed or disarmed.

The vehicle is automatically
immobilized when the transmitter
leaves the vehicle.

The immobilization system is
disarmed when the ignition button
is pushed in and a valid transmitter
is found in the vehicle.

The security light, located in the
instrument panel cluster, comes on
if there is a problem with arming
or disarming the theft-deterrent
system.

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The system has one or more
transmitters that are matched to
an immobilizer control unit in your
vehicle. Only a correctly matched
transmitter will start the vehicle.
If the transmitter is ever damaged,
you may not be able to start your
vehicle.

When trying to start the vehicle, the
security light comes on briefly when
the ignition is turned on.

If the engine does not start and the
security light stays on, there is a
problem with the system. Turn the
ignition off and try again.

If the RKE appears to be
undamaged, try another
transmitter. Or, you may try
placing the transmitter in the
transmitter pocket located in the
center console. See “No Remote
Detected” under Key and Lock
Messages on page 5‑36.

If the engine does not start with
the other transmitter or when the
transmitter is on the pocket in the
center console, your vehicle needs
service. See your dealer who can
service the theft-deterrent system
and have a new transmitter
programmed to the vehicle.

Do not leave the key or device
that disarms or deactivates the
theft-deterrent system in the vehicle.

Exterior Mirrors

Power Mirrors

To adjust the mirrors:

1. Turn the control knob to the
L (left) or R (right) selecting the
driver or passenger mirror.

2. Push the control knob to the left,
right, up, or down to adjust the
mirror.

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Vehicles with the memory feature
can store a preferred mirror position.
See “Memory Seats” under Power
Seat Adjustment on page 3‑5 for
more information.

Folding Mirrors

Manual Foldaway Mirrors

The mirrors on vehicles with manual
folded mirrors are folded inward
to prevent damage when going
through an automatic car wash.
To fold, pull the mirror toward the
vehicle. Push the mirror outward
to return it to the original position.

Automatic Dimming Feature

The driver outside mirror
automatically adjusts for the glare
of the headlamps behind you.

Turn Signal Indicator

The vehicle may have a turn signal
indicator lamp built into the mirror
housing. The turn signal lamp
flashes with the use of the vehicle's
turn signal and hazard flashers.

Heated Mirrors

For vehicles with heated mirrors:

< (Rear Window Defogger):

Press to heat the mirrors.

See “Rear Window Defogger” under

Automatic Climate Control System
on page 8‑1 for more information.

Park Tilt Mirrors

If the vehicle is equipped with
memory mirrors, there is an option
to have the mirrors tilt down, when
in R (Reverse), to more easily see
the ground near the vehicle.

When the vehicle is shifted to
R (Reverse), both the driver and
passenger mirrors will tilt downward.
They will return to their previous
position when the vehicle is shifted
out of R (Reverse), the ignition is
turned to OFF, or the vehicle is left
in R (Reverse) for an extended
period of time.

This feature can be turned on or off.
See Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39.

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Interior Mirrors

Manual Rearview Mirror

Adjust the inside rearview mirror
for a clear view of the area behind
your vehicle. To avoid glare of the
headlamps from behind, push the
tab forward for daytime and pull it
for nighttime use.

®

Vehicles with OnStar
control buttons at the bottom of the
mirror. See your dealer for more
information about OnStar and how
to subscribe to it. See the OnStar
Owner's Guide for more information
about the services OnStar provides.

have three

Windows

WARNING

{

Leaving children, helpless
adults, or pets in a vehicle
with the windows closed is
dangerous. They can be
overcome by the extreme heat
and suffer permanent injuries
or even death from heat stroke.
Never leave a child, a helpless
adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle,
especially with the windows
closed in warm or hot weather.

The vehicle aerodynamics are
designed to improve fuel economy
performance. This may result in a
pulsing sound when either rear
window is down and the front
windows are up. To reduce the
sound, open either a front window
or the sunroof (if equipped).

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Keys, Doors and Windows 2-19

Power Windows

The power window switches located
on the driver door control all four
windows. The passenger doors
have a window switch that controls
that window. Push the switch down
to open the window. Pull the front
of the switch up to close it.

The switches work when
the ignition is in ON/RUN or
ACC/ACCESSORY, or in Retained
Accessory Power (RAP). See

Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
on page 9‑24.

Express Window Operation

Windows with an express-up
or down feature allow the front
windows to be lowered or raised
without holding the switch. Rear
windows only have express-down.
Pull a window switch up or push
it down all the way, release it,
and the window goes down or up
automatically. Stop the window
by pushing or pulling the switch.

Rear Window Lockout

The rear window lockout button
is on the driver door. Press

disable the rear window controls.
The light on the button comes on
indicating the feature is in use.
The rear windows can still be raised
or lowered using the driver window
switches when the lockout feature is
active. To restore power to the rear
windows, press the button again.
The light on the button goes out.
If the light flashes, the feature
may not be working properly.

This switch also activates the
safety locks. See Safety Locks on
page 2‑12.

v to

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Programming the Power
Windows

If the battery on the vehicle has
been recharged, disconnected,
or is not working, you will need to
reprogram each front power window
for the express-up feature to work.
Before reprogramming, replace or
recharge the vehicle's battery.

To program each front window:

1. With the ignition in ON/RUN
or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in
Retained Accessory Power
(RAP), close all doors.

2. Press and hold the power
window switch until the window
is fully open.

3. Pull the power window switch up
until the window is fully closed.

4. Continue holding the switch up
for approximately two seconds
after the window is completely
closed.

The window is now reprogrammed.
Repeat the process for the other
windows.

Sun Visors

Pull the sun visor down to block
glare. Detach the sun visor from
the center mount to pivot to the side
window, or to extend along the rod,
if available.

Rear Window Sunshade

On vehicles with a rear window
sunshade, the switch is on the
console to the right of the shifter.

The sunshade only operates
when the ignition is in ON/RUN
or ACC/ACCESSORY.

To open the sunshade, press and
release the switch. The sunshade
will fully extend. To close the
sunshade, press and release the
switch again. The sunshade will
fully close.

If the vehicle is shifted into
R (Reverse) when the sunshade is
extended, it will automatically close.

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Roof

Sunroof

On vehicles with a sunroof, the
switch is located on the overhead
console.

The sunroof only operates
when the ignition is in ON/RUN
or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in
Retained Accessory Power (RAP).
See Retained Accessory Power
(RAP) on page 9‑24.

Vent

The sunroof has an express-vent
open feature. From the closed
position, press the rear of the
sunroof switch (B) to the first
detent to vent the sunroof.
To close the sunroof, press the
front of the sunroof switch (A)
to the second detent.

Express-Open/Express-Close

To express-open the sunroof from
the closed or vent position, fully
press and release the rear of the
switch (B). The sunroof opens
automatically. To stop the sunroof
partway, press the switch a second
time. To express-close the sunroof,
fully press and release the front of
the switch (A). The sunroof closes
automatically. To stop the sunroof
partway, press the switch a
second time.

If the sunshade is closed, it opens
automatically with the sunroof
but can also be express-opened/
express-closed by using the
sunshade control (C) or (D).
The sunshade cannot be fully
closed with the sunroof open.

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To express-open the sunshade from
the closed position, fully press and
release the rear of the switch (C).
The sunshade opens automatically.
To stop the sunshade partway,
press the switch a second time.
To express-close the sunshade
fully press and release the front
of the switch (D). The sunshade
closes automatically. To stop the
sunshade partway, press the switch
a second time.

Notice: Forcing the sunshade
forward of the sliding glass
panel may cause damage and
the sunroof may not operate
properly. Always close the
glass panel before closing
the sunshade.

The sunroof glass panel cannot be
opened or closed if the vehicle has
an electrical failure.

Anti-Pinch Feature

If an object is in the path of
the sunroof while it is closing,
the anti-pinch feature will detect
the object and stop the sunroof
from closing at the point of the
obstruction. The sunroof and
sunshade will then return to the
open or vent position. To close
the sunroof once the obstruction
has been removed, refer to
"Express-Open/Express-Close"
earlier in this section.

Dirt and debris may collect on
the sunroof seal or in the track.
This could cause issues with
sunroof operation and noise.
It could also plug the water drainage
system. Periodically open the
sunroof and remove any obstacles
or loose debris. Wipe the sunroof
seal and roof sealing area using a
clean cloth, mild soap, and water.
Do not remove grease from the
sunroof.

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Seats and Restraints 3-1

Seats and Restraints

Head Restraints

Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 3-2

Front Seats

Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Power Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . 3-5

Lumbar Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Heated and Ventilated Front

Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 3-10

Rear Seats

Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Rear Seat

Pass-Through Door . . . . . . . . 3-13

Safety Belts

Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 3-13

How to Wear Safety Belts

Properly .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 3-17

Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22

Safety Belt Use During

Pregnancy .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 3-27

Safety Belt Extender . . . . . . . . . 3-27

Safety System Check . . . . . . . . 3-27

Safety Belt Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28

Replacing Safety Belt System

Parts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-28

Airbag System

Airbag System . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . 3-29

Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . 3-31

When Should an Airbag

Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . 3-32

What Makes an Airbag

Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . 3-34

How Does an Airbag

Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 3-34

What Will You See After an

Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35

Passenger Sensing

System . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . . 3-37

Servicing the Airbag-Equipped

Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . . 3-41

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3-2 Seats and Restraints

Adding Equipment to the

Airbag-Equipped Vehicle . . . 3-42

Airbag System Check . . . . . . . . 3-43

Replacing Airbag System

Parts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-43

Child Restraints

Older Children . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 3-44

Infants and Young

Children . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 3-46

Child Restraint Systems . . . . . 3-49

Where to Put the Restraint . . . 3-51
Lower Anchors and

Tethers for Children

(LATCH System) . . .. . . . . . . . 3-52

Replacing LATCH System

Parts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-61

Securing Child Restraints

(Rear Seat) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 3-61

Securing Child Restraints

(Front Passenger Seat) . . . . 3-63

Head Restraints

The vehicle's front seats have
adjustable head restraints in the
outboard seating positions.

The vehicle's rear seats have
adjustable head restraints in the
outboard seating positions.

WARNING

{

With head restraints that are
not installed and adjusted
properly, there is a greater
chance that occupants will suffer
a neck/spinal injury in a crash.
Do not drive until the head
restraints for all occupants are
installed and adjusted properly.

Adjust the head restraint so that the
top of the restraint is at the same
height as the top of the occupant's
head. This position reduces the
chance of a neck injury in a crash.

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Seats and Restraints 3-3

Front Seat

To raise or lower the head restraint,

press the release button located on

the side of the head restraint and

pull up or push the head restraint

down and release the button.

Pull and push on the head restraint

after the button is released to make

sure that it is locked in place.

The front head restraints are not

designed to be removed.

Rear Seat

Pull the head restraint up to raise it.
To lower the head restraint, press
the release button, located on the
head restraint post on the top of the
seatback, while you push the head
restraint down.

Push down on the head restraint
after the button is released to make
sure that it is locked in place.

If you are installing a child restraint
in the rear seat, see “Securing a
Child Restraint Designed for the
LATCH System” under Lower

Anchors and Tethers for Children
(LATCH System) on page 3‑52.

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3-4 Seats and Restraints

Front Seats

Seat Adjustment

Seat Position

WARNING

{

You can lose control of the
vehicle if you try to adjust a
manual driver seat while the
vehicle is moving. The sudden
movement could startle and
confuse you, or make you push
a pedal when you do not want to.
Adjust the driver seat only when
the vehicle is not moving.

To adjust the seat position:

1. Pull the handle under the front of
the seat cushion.

2. Slide the seat to the desired
position and release the handle.

3. Try to move the seat back and
forth to be sure it is locked in
place.

Height Adjustment

Press and hold the top or bottom
of the switch to raise or lower the
seat. Release the switch when the
desired height is reached.

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Power Seat Adjustment

To adjust a power seat:

.

Move the seat forward or
rearward by sliding the control
forward or rearward.

.

Raise or lower the front or rear
part of the seat cushion by
moving the front or rear of
the control up or down.

.

Raise or lower the entire seat
by moving the entire control up
or down.

Memory Seats

On vehicles with the memory
feature, the “1” and “2” buttons
on the outboard side of the driver
seat are used to manually save
and recall the driver seat and
outside mirror positions. These
manually stored positions are
referred to as Button Memory
positions.

The vehicle will also automatically
save driver seat and outside
mirror positions to the current
driver Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter when the ignition is
placed in OFF. These automatically
stored positions are referred
to as RKE Memory positions.
See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)

System Operation on page 2‑4

for more information.

Storing Button Memory Positions

To save positions into Button
Memory:

1. Adjust the driver seat, seatback
recliner, and both outside mirrors
to the desired driving positions.

2. Press and release the
MEM (Memory) button.

3. Press “1” until a beep sounds.

4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 for a
second driver using “2.”

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Recalling Button Memory
Positions

To recall the manually saved
Button Memory positions, press
and hold “1” or “2.” The driver seat
and outside mirrors move to the
positions stored to those buttons
when pressed. Releasing “1” or “2”
before the stored positions are
reached stops the recall.

If something has blocked the
driver seat while recalling a
memory position, the recall may
stop. Remove the obstruction;
then press and hold the appropriate
manual control for the memory item
that is not recalling for two seconds.
Try recalling the memory position
again by pressing the appropriate
memory button. If the memory
position is still not recalling,
see your dealer for service.

Recalling RKE Memory Positions
(Memory Remote Recall)

The Memory Remote Recall
feature can recall the driver seat
and outside mirrors to previously
stored RKE Memory positions
when entering the vehicle.

Every time the ignition is placed
in OFF, the positions of the driver
seat and outside mirrors are
automatically stored to the RKE
transmitter that was used to start
the vehicle. These positions are
called RKE Memory positions and
may be different than the previously
mentioned Button Memory positions
saved to the “1” or “2” buttons.

To automatically recall RKE
Memory positions, unlock
the driver door with the RKE
transmitter, and open the driver
door. On vehicles with Keyless
Access, opening the driver door
when an RKE transmitter is
present will activate the RKE
Memory recall. If the driver door
is already open, pressing the
RKE transmitter K button will also
activate the RKE Memory recall.
The driver seat and outside mirrors
will move to the previously saved
RKE Memory positions.

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This feature is turned on or off using
the vehicle personalization menu.
See “Remote Recall” under Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑39 for
more information.

To stop recall movement, press
one of the memory, power mirror,
or power seat controls.

If something has blocked the
driver seat while recalling a
memory position, the recall may
stop. Remove the obstruction;
then press and hold the appropriate
manual control for the memory item
that is not recalling for two seconds.
Try recalling the memory position
again by opening the driver door
and pressing the RKE transmitter K
button. If the memory position is
still not recalling, see your dealer
for service.

Easy Exit Driver Seat

This feature moves the seat
rearward allowing the driver
more room to exit the vehicle.

To activate, place the ignition in
OFF and open the driver door. If the
driver door is already open, placing
the ignition in OFF will activate the
easy exit driver seat.

This feature is turned on or off
using the vehicle personalization
menu. See “Driver Seat Easy Exit”
under Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑39 for more information.

To stop recall movement, press
one of the memory or power seat
controls.

If something has blocked the driver
seat while recalling the exit position,
the recall may stop. Remove the
obstruction; then press and hold
the power seat control rearward for
two seconds. Try recalling the exit
position again. If the exit position is
still not recalling, see your dealer
for service.

Lumbar Adjustment

To increase or decrease lumbar
support, press and hold the front
or rear of the control.

To raise or lower lumbar support,
press and hold the top or bottom
of the control.

Release the control when the
seatback reaches the desired
level of lumbar support.

See Power Seat Adjustment on
page 3‑5 for more information.

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3-8 Seats and Restraints

Reclining Seatbacks

WARNING

{

Sitting in a reclined position when
the vehicle is in motion can be
dangerous. Even when buckled
up, the safety belts cannot do
their job when reclined like this.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

The shoulder belt cannot do its
job because it will not be against
your body. Instead, it will be in
front of you. In a crash, you could
go into it, receiving neck or other
injuries.

The lap belt cannot do its job
either. In a crash, the belt could
go up over your abdomen.
The belt forces would be there,
not at your pelvic bones. This
could cause serious internal
injuries.

For proper protection when the
vehicle is in motion, have the
seatback upright. Then sit well
back in the seat and wear the
safety belt properly.

Manual Reclining Seatbacks

WARNING

{

You can lose control of the
vehicle if you try to adjust a
manual driver seat while the
vehicle is moving. The sudden
movement could startle and
confuse you, or make you push
a pedal when you do not want to.
Adjust the driver seat only when
the vehicle is not moving.

WARNING

{

If either seatback is not locked, it
could move forward in a sudden
stop or crash. That could cause
injury to the person sitting there.
Always push and pull on the
seatbacks to be sure they are
locked.

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To recline the seatback:

1. Lift the recline lever.

2. Move the seatback to the
desired position, and then
release the lever to lock the
seatback in place.

3. Push and pull on the seatback to
make sure it is locked.

To return the seatback to the upright
position:

1. Lift the lever fully without
applying pressure to the
seatback, and the seatback will
return to the upright position.

2. Push and pull on the seatback to
make sure it is locked.

Power Reclining Seatbacks

To adjust a power seatback,
if equipped:

.

Tilt the top of the control
rearward to recline.

.

Tilt the top of the control forward
to raise.

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Heated and Ventilated Front Seats

WARNING

{

If you cannot feel temperature
change or pain to the skin, the
seat heater may cause burns
even at low temperatures.
To reduce the risk of burns,
people with such a condition
should use care when using
the seat heater, especially for
long periods of time. Do not
place anything on the seat that
insulates against heat, such
as a blanket, cushion, cover,
or similar item. This may cause
the seat heater to overheat.
An overheated seat heater may
cause a burn or may damage
the seat.

Heated and Ventilated

Seat Buttons Shown,

Heated Seat Buttons Similar

If available, the buttons are on the
climate control panel. To operate,
the ignition must be on.

Press

L to heat the seat cushion

and seatback or
to ventilate the seat.

Press the button once for the
highest setting. With each press
of the button, the seat will change
to the next lower setting, and then
to the off setting. The lights indicate
three for the highest setting and
one for the lowest.

The passenger seat may take
longer to heat up.

{, if equipped,

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Remote Start Heated and
Ventilated Seats

During a remote start, the heated
or ventilated seats, if equipped,
can be turned on automatically.
They are canceled when the ignition
is turned on. Press the button to use
the heated or ventilated seats after
the vehicle is started.

The heated or ventilated seat
indicator lights on the button do
not turn on during a remote start.

The heated seat temperature
performance of an unoccupied seat
may be reduced. This is normal.

The heated or ventilated seats
will not turn on during a remote
start unless they are enabled in
the vehicle personalization menu.
See Remote Vehicle Start on
page 2‑8 and “Remote Start
Heated Seats” or “Remote Start
Cooled Seats” under Vehicle

Personalization on page 5‑39

for more information.

Rear Seats

Folding the Seatback

Either side of the seatback can be
folded down for more cargo space.
Fold a seatback only when the
vehicle is not moving.

Notice: Folding a rear seat with
the safety belts still fastened may
cause damage to the seat or the
safety belts. Always unbuckle the
safety belts and return them to
their normal stowed position
before folding a rear seat.

To fold the seatback down:

1. Be sure the safety belt is in the
retainer clip.

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3-12 Seats and Restraints

2. Pull on the lever on the top of
the seatback to unlock it.

A tab near the seatback lever
raises when the seatback is
unlocked.

3. Fold the seatback down.

Repeat Steps 1 through 3 for the
other seatback, if desired.

Raising the Seatback

WARNING

{

If either seatback is not locked, it
could move forward in a sudden
stop or crash. That could cause
injury to the person sitting there.
Always push and pull on the
seatbacks to be sure they are
locked.

WARNING

{

A safety belt that is improperly
routed, not properly attached,
or twisted will not provide the
protection needed in a crash.
The person wearing the belt could
be seriously injured. After raising
the rear seatback, always check
to be sure that the safety belts
are properly routed and attached,
and are not twisted.

To raise a seatback:

1. Lift the seatback up and push
it rearward to lock it in place.
Make sure the safety belt is
in the retainer clip and is
not twisted or caught in the
seatback.

A tab near the seatback lever
retracts when the seatback is
locked in place.

2. Push and pull the top of the
seatback to be sure it is locked
into position.

3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for the
other seatback, if necessary.

When the seat is not in use, it
should be kept in the upright,
locked position.

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Rear Seat Pass-Through Door

The vehicle may have a door in the
rear seat that provides access to the
trunk.

Lower the rear seat armrest to
access the pass-through door. Pull
the release handle to open the door.
To close, push and latch the door.

Safety Belts

This section of the manual
describes how to use safety belts
properly. It also describes some
things not to do with safety belts.

WARNING

{

Do not let anyone ride where
a safety belt cannot be worn
properly. In a crash, if you or
your passenger(s) are not
wearing safety belts, the injuries
can be much worse. You can hit
things inside the vehicle harder
or be ejected from the vehicle.
You and your passenger(s) can
be seriously injured or killed.
In the same crash, you might
not be, if you are buckled up.
Always fasten your safety belt,
and check that your passenger(s)
are restrained properly too.

WARNING

{

It is extremely dangerous to ride
in a cargo area, inside or outside
of a vehicle. In a collision, people
riding in these areas are more
likely to be seriously injured or
killed. Do not allow people to ride
in any area of your vehicle that
is not equipped with seats and
safety belts. Be sure everyone
in the vehicle is in a seat and
using a safety belt properly.

This vehicle has indicators as a
reminder to buckle the safety belts.
See Safety Belt Reminders on
page 5‑14 for additional information.

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3-14 Seats and Restraints

In most states and in all Canadian
provinces, the law requires wearing
safety belts. Here is why:

You never know if you will be in
a crash. If you do have a crash,
you do not know if it will be a
serious one.

A few crashes are mild, and some
crashes can be so serious that
even buckled up, a person would
not survive. But most crashes are
in between. In many of them, people
who buckle up can survive and
sometimes walk away. Without
safety belts they could have been
badly hurt or killed.

After more than 40 years of safety
belts in vehicles, the facts are clear.
In most crashes buckling up does
matter ... a lot!

Why Safety Belts Work

When you ride in or on anything,
you go as fast as it goes.

Put someone on it.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose
it is just a seat on wheels.

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Get it up to speed. Then stop the
vehicle. The rider does not stop.

The person keeps going until
stopped by something. In a real
vehicle, it could be the windshield...

or the instrument panel...

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3-16 Seats and Restraints

or the safety belts!

With safety belts, you slow down
as the vehicle does. You get more
time to stop. You stop over more
distance, and your strongest bones
take the forces. That is why safety
belts make such good sense.

Questions and Answers About
Safety Belts

Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle

after a crash if I am wearing a
safety belt?

A: You could be — whether you

are wearing a safety belt or
not. But your chance of being
conscious during and after an
accident, so you can unbuckle
and get out, is much greater if
you are belted. And you can
unbuckle a safety belt, even if
you are upside down.

Q: If my vehicle has airbags, why

should I have to wear safety
belts?

A: Airbags are supplemental

systems only; so they work
with safety belts — not instead
of them. Whether or not an
airbag is provided, all occupants
still have to buckle up to get
the most protection. That is
true not only in frontal collisions,
but especially in side and other
collisions.

Q: If I am a good driver, and I

never drive far from home,
why should I wear safety
belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver,

but if you are in a crash — even
one that is not your fault — you
and your passenger(s) can be
hurt. Being a good driver does
not protect you from things
beyond your control, such as
bad drivers.

Most accidents occur within
40 km (25 mi) of home. And the
greatest number of serious
injuries and deaths occur
at speeds of less than
65 km/h (40 mph).

Safety belts are for everyone.

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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

This section is only for people of
adult size.

Be aware that there are special
things to know about safety belts
and children. And there are different
rules for smaller children and
infants. If a child will be riding in
the vehicle, see Older Children on

page 3‑44 or Infants and Young
Children on page 3‑46. Follow those

rules for everyone's protection.

It is very important for all occupants
to buckle up. Statistics show that
unbelted people are hurt more often
in crashes than those who are
wearing safety belts.

Occupants who are not buckled up
can be thrown out of the vehicle in a
crash. And they can strike others in
the vehicle who are wearing safety
belts.

First, before you or your
passenger(s) wear a safety belt,
there is important information
you should know.

Sit up straight and always keep
your feet on the floor in front of you.
The lap part of the belt should be

worn low and snug on the hips,
just touching the thighs. In a crash,
this applies force to the strong
pelvic bones and you would be
less likely to slide under the lap
belt. If you slid under it, the belt
would apply force on your abdomen.
This could cause serious or even
fatal injuries. The shoulder belt
should go over the shoulder and
across the chest. These parts of
the body are best able to take
belt restraining forces.

The shoulder belt locks if there is a
sudden stop or crash.

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Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is too loose.

It will not give as much
protection this way.

WARNING

{

You can be seriously hurt if the
shoulder belt is too loose. In a
crash, you would move forward
too much, which could increase
injury. The shoulder belt should
fit snugly against your body.

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The lap belt is too loose.

It will not give nearly as
much protection this way.

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WARNING

{

You can be seriously hurt if the
lap belt is too loose. In a crash,
you could slide under the lap
belt and apply force on your
abdomen. This could cause
serious or even fatal injuries.
The lap belt should be worn
low and snug on the hips,
just touching the thighs.

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong

buckle.

WARNING

{

You can be seriously injured if
the belt is buckled in the wrong
place like this. In a crash, the belt
would go up over your abdomen.
The belt forces would be there,
not on the pelvic bones. This
could cause serious internal
injuries. Always buckle the belt
into the buckle nearest you.

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Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is over an armrest.

WARNING

{

You can be seriously injured if
the belt goes over an armrest like
this. The belt would be much too
high. In a crash, you can slide
under the belt. The belt force
would then be applied on the
abdomen, not on the pelvic
bones, and that could cause
serious or fatal injuries. Be sure
the belt goes under the armrests.

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is worn under

the arm. It should be worn over
the shoulder at all times.

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WARNING

{

You can be seriously injured
if you wear the shoulder belt
under your arm. In a crash,
your body would move too far
forward, which would increase the
chance of head and neck injury.
Also, the belt would apply too
much force to the ribs, which are
not as strong as shoulder bones.
You could also severely injure
internal organs like your liver or
spleen. The shoulder belt should
go over the shoulder and across
the chest.

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is behind the body.

WARNING

{

You can be seriously injured
by not wearing the lap-shoulder
belt properly. In a crash, you
would not be restrained by the
shoulder belt. Your body could
move too far forward increasing
the chance of head and neck
injury. You might also slide
under the lap belt. The belt
force would then be applied
right on the abdomen. That could
cause serious or fatal injuries.
The shoulder belt should go over
the shoulder and across the
chest.

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Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across

the body.

WARNING

{

You can be seriously injured by a
twisted belt. In a crash, you would
not have the full width of the belt
to spread impact forces. If a belt
is twisted, make it straight so it
can work properly, or ask your
dealer to fix it.

Lap-Shoulder Belt

All seating positions in the vehicle
have a lap-shoulder belt.

The following instructions explain
how to wear a lap-shoulder belt
properly.

1. Adjust the seat, if the seat is
adjustable, so you can sit up
straight. To see how, see “Seats”
in the Index.

2. Pick up the latch plate and pull
the belt across you. Do not let it
get twisted.

The lap-shoulder belt may lock if
you pull the belt across you very
quickly. If this happens, let the
belt go back slightly to unlock it.
Then pull the belt across you
more slowly.

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If the shoulder portion of a
passenger belt is pulled out
all the way, the child restraint
locking feature may be engaged.
If this happens, let the belt go
back all the way and start again.

3. Push the latch plate into the
buckle until it clicks.

Pull up on the latch plate to
make sure it is secure. If the belt
is not long enough, see Safety
Belt Extender on page 3‑27.

Position the release button on
the buckle so that the safety belt
could be quickly unbuckled if
necessary.

If equipped with a shoulder
belt height adjuster, move it
to the height that is right for
you. See “Shoulder Belt Height
Adjustment” later in this section
for instructions on use and
important safety information.

4. To make the lap part tight,
pull up on the shoulder belt.

It may be necessary to pull
stitching on the safety belt
through the latch plate to fully
tighten the lap belt on smaller
occupants.

To unlatch the belt, push the button
on the buckle. The belt should
return to its stowed position. Slide
the latch plate up the safety belt
webbing, when the safety belt is not
in use. The latch plate should rest
on the stitching on the safety belt,
near the guide loop on the side wall.

Before a door is closed, be sure
the safety belt is out of the way. If a
door is slammed against a safety
belt, damage can occur to both the
safety belt and the vehicle.

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3-24 Seats and Restraints

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster

The vehicle has a shoulder belt
height adjuster for the driver and
right front passenger seating
positions.

Adjust the height so the
shoulder portion of the belt is
on the shoulder and not falling
off of it. The belt should be close
to, but not contacting, the neck.
Improper shoulder belt height
adjustment could reduce the
effectiveness of the safety belt in
a crash. See How to Wear Safety
Belts Properly on page 3‑17.

Press the release button (A) and
move the height adjuster to the
desired position. The adjuster
can be moved up by pushing the
slide/trim up. After the adjuster is
set to the desired position, try to
move it down without pushing the
release button to make sure it has
locked into position.

Safety Belt Pretensioners

This vehicle has safety belt
pretensioners for front outboard
occupants. Although the safety
belt pretensioners cannot be seen,
they are part of the safety belt
assembly. They can help tighten
the safety belts during the early
stages of a moderate to severe
frontal and near frontal crash if
the threshold conditions for
pretensioner activation are met.

Pretensioners work only once. If the
pretensioners activate in a crash,
the pretensioners and probably
other parts of the vehicle's safety
belt system will need to be replaced.
See Replacing Safety Belt System
Parts After a Crash on page 3‑28.

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Seats and Restraints 3-25

Rear Safety Belt Comfort
Guides

This vehicle may have rear shoulder
belt comfort guides. If not, they
are available through your dealer.
The guides may provide added
safety belt comfort for older children
who have outgrown booster seats
and for some adults. When installed
and properly adjusted, the comfort
guide positions the belt away from
the neck and head.

There is one guide for each outside
passenger position in the rear seat.
Here is how to install a comfort
guide to the safety belt:

2. Place the guide over the belt,
and insert the two edges of the
belt into the slots of the guide.

1. Remove the guide from its
storage pocket on the side of
the seat.

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3-26 Seats and Restraints

3. Be sure that the belt is
not twisted and it lies flat.
The elastic cord must be under
the belt and the guide on top.

WARNING

{

A safety belt that is not properly
worn may not provide the
protection needed in a crash.
The person wearing the belt could
be seriously injured. The shoulder
belt should go over the shoulder
and across the chest. These parts
of the body are best able to take
belt restraining forces.

4. Buckle, position, and release
the safety belt as described
previously in this section. Make
sure the shoulder portion of the
belt is on the shoulder and not
falling off of it. The belt should
be close to, but not contacting,
the neck.

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Seats and Restraints 3-27

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

Safety belts work for everyone,
including pregnant women. Like all
occupants, they are more likely to
be seriously injured if they do not
wear safety belts.

A pregnant woman should wear
a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap
portion should be worn as low
as possible, below the rounding,
throughout the pregnancy.

The best way to protect the fetus is
to protect the mother. When a safety
belt is worn properly, it is more likely
that the fetus will not be hurt in a
crash. For pregnant women, as for
anyone, the key to making safety
belts effective is wearing them
properly.

Safety Belt Extender

If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten
around you, you should use it.

But if a safety belt is not long
enough, your dealer will order you
an extender. When you go in to
order it, take the heaviest coat you
will wear, so the extender will be
long enough for you. To help avoid
personal injury, do not let someone
else use it, and use it only for the
seat it is made to fit. The extender
has been designed for adults.
Never use it for securing child seats.
To wear it, attach it to the regular
safety belt. For more information,
see the instruction sheet that
comes with the extender.

Safety System Check

Now and then, check that the safety
belt reminder light, safety belts,
buckles, latch plates, retractors,
and anchorages are working
properly. Look for any other loose
or damaged safety belt system parts
that might keep a safety belt system
from doing its job. See your dealer
to have it repaired. Torn or frayed
safety belts may not protect you in
a crash. They can rip apart under
impact forces. If a belt is torn or
frayed, get a new one right away.

Make sure the safety belt reminder
light is working. See Safety Belt
Reminders on page 5‑14 for more
information.

Keep safety belts clean and dry.
See Safety Belt Care on page 3‑28.

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3-28 Seats and Restraints

Safety Belt Care

Keep belts clean and dry.

WARNING

{

Do not bleach or dye safety belts.
It may severely weaken them.
In a crash, they might not be able
to provide adequate protection.
Clean safety belts only with mild
soap and lukewarm water.

Replacing Safety Belt System Parts After a Crash

WARNING

{

A crash can damage the safety
belt system in the vehicle.
A damaged safety belt system
may not properly protect the
person using it, resulting in
serious injury or even death in
a crash. To help make sure the
safety belt systems are working
properly after a crash, have them
inspected and any necessary
replacements made as soon
as possible.

After a minor crash, replacement of
safety belts may not be necessary.
But the safety belt assemblies that
were used during any crash may
have been stressed or damaged.
See your dealer to have the safety
belt assemblies inspected or
replaced.

New parts and repairs may be
necessary even if the safety belt
system was not being used at the
time of the crash.

Have the safety belt pretensioners
checked if the vehicle has been in a
crash, or if the airbag readiness light
stays on after you start the vehicle
or while you are driving. See Airbag
Readiness Light on page 5‑14.

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Seats and Restraints 3-29

Airbag System

The vehicle has the following
airbags:

.

A frontal airbag for the driver.

.

A frontal airbag for the right front
passenger.

.

A seat-mounted side impact
airbag for the driver.

.

A seat-mounted side impact
airbag for the right front
passenger.

.

A roof-rail airbag for the driver
and the passenger seated
directly behind the driver.

.

A roof-rail airbag for the
right front passenger and
the passenger seated directly
behind the right front passenger.

The vehicle may have the following
airbags:

.

A seat-mounted side impact
airbag for the rear seat
passenger seated directly
behind the driver.

.

A seat-mounted side impact
airbag for the rear seat
passenger seated directly
behind the right front passenger.

All of the airbags in the vehicle will
have the word AIRBAG embossed
in the trim or on an attached label
near the deployment opening.

For frontal airbags, the word
AIRBAG will appear on the middle
part of the steering wheel for the
driver and on the instrument panel
for the right front passenger.

With seat-mounted side impact
airbags, the word AIRBAG will
appear on the side of the seatback
closest to the door.

With roof-rail airbags, the word
AIRBAG will appear along the
headliner or trim.

Airbags are designed to supplement
the protection provided by safety
belts. Even though today's airbags
are also designed to help reduce
the risk of injury from the force of an
inflating bag, all airbags must inflate
very quickly to do their job.

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Here are the most important things
to know about the airbag system:

WARNING

{

You can be severely injured or
killed in a crash if you are not
wearing a safety belt — even if
the vehicle has airbags. Airbags
are designed to work with safety
belts, but do not replace them.
Also, airbags are not designed to
deploy in every crash. In some
crashes safety belts are the only
restraint. See When Should an
Airbag Inflate? on page 3‑32.

Wearing a safety belt during a
crash helps reduce your chance
of hitting things inside the vehicle
or being ejected from it. Airbags
are “supplemental restraints” to
the safety belts. Everyone in the
vehicle should wear a safety belt
properly — whether or not there is
an airbag for that person.

WARNING

{

Airbags inflate with great force,
faster than the blink of an eye.
Anyone who is up against, or
very close to, any airbag when it
inflates can be seriously injured
or killed. Do not sit unnecessarily
close to any airbag, as you would
be if you were sitting on the edge
of the seat or leaning forward.
Safety belts help keep you in
position before and during a
crash. Always wear a safety belt,
even with airbags. The driver
should sit as far back as possible
while still maintaining control of
the vehicle.

Occupants should not lean on
or sleep against the door or side
windows in seating positions with
seat-mounted side impact airbags
and/or roof-rail airbags.

WARNING

{

Children who are up against,
or very close to, any airbag
when it inflates can be seriously
injured or killed. Airbags plus
lap-shoulder belts offer protection
for adults and older children,
but not for young children and
infants. Neither the vehicle's
safety belt system nor its airbag
system is designed for them.
Young children and infants
need the protection that a child
restraint system can provide.
Always secure children properly
in the vehicle. To read how, see

Older Children on page 3‑44 or
Infants and Young Children on
page 3‑46.

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There is an airbag readiness light
on the instrument panel cluster,
which shows the airbag symbol.
The system checks the airbag
electrical system for malfunctions.
The light tells you if there is an
electrical problem. See Airbag

Readiness Light on page 5‑14

for more information.

Where Are the Airbags?

The driver frontal airbag is in the
middle of the steering wheel.

The right front passenger frontal
airbag is in the instrument panel on
the passenger side.

Seats and Restraints 3-31

Driver Side Shown,

Passenger Side Similar

The seat-mounted side impact
airbags for the driver and right front
passenger are in the side of the
seatbacks closest to the door.

The roof-rail airbags for the driver,
right front passenger, and second
row outboard passengers are in the
ceiling above the side windows.

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Rear Seat Driver Side Shown,

Passenger Side Similar

If the vehicle has second row
seat‐mounted side impact airbags,
they are in the sides of the rear
seatback closest to the door.

WARNING

{

If something is between an
occupant and an airbag, the
airbag might not inflate properly
or it might force the object into

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

that person causing severe
injury or even death. The path
of an inflating airbag must be
kept clear. Do not put anything
between an occupant and an
airbag, and do not attach or put
anything on the steering wheel
hub or on or near any other
airbag covering.

Do not use seat accessories
that block the inflation path of a
seat-mounted side impact airbag.

Never secure anything to the roof
of a vehicle with roof-rail airbags
by routing a rope or tie down
through any door or window
opening. If you do, the path
of an inflating roof-rail airbag
will be blocked.

When Should an Airbag Inflate?

Frontal airbags are designed
to inflate in moderate to severe
frontal or near frontal crashes to
help reduce the potential for severe
injuries mainly to the driver's or right
front passenger's head and chest.
However, they are only designed
to inflate if the impact exceeds
a predetermined deployment
threshold. Deployment thresholds
are used to predict how severe a
crash is likely to be in time for the
airbags to inflate and help restrain
the occupants.

Whether the frontal airbags will
or should deploy is not based on
how fast your vehicle is traveling.
It depends largely on what you hit,
the direction of the impact, and how
quickly your vehicle slows down.

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Frontal airbags may inflate
at different crash speeds.
For example:

.

If the vehicle hits a stationary
object, the airbags could inflate
at a different crash speed than if
the vehicle hits a moving object.

.

If the vehicle hits an object
that deforms, the airbags could
inflate at a different crash speed
than if the vehicle hits an object
that does not deform.

.

If the vehicle hits a narrow object
(like a pole), the airbags could
inflate at a different crash speed
than if the vehicle hits a wide
object (like a wall).

.

If the vehicle goes into an object
at an angle, the airbags could
inflate at a different crash speed
than if the vehicle goes straight
into the object.

Thresholds can also vary with
specific vehicle design.

Frontal airbags are not intended to
inflate during vehicle rollovers, rear
impacts, or in many side impacts.

In addition, the vehicle has
dual-stage frontal airbags.
Dual-stage airbags adjust the
restraint according to crash
severity. The vehicle has electronic
frontal sensors, which help
the sensing system distinguish
between a moderate frontal
impact and a more severe frontal
impact. For moderate frontal
impacts, dual-stage airbags inflate
at a level less than full deployment.
For more severe frontal impacts,
full deployment occurs.

The vehicle has seat-mounted
side impact and roof-rail airbags.
See Airbag System on page 3‑29.
Seat-mounted side impact and
roof-rail airbags are intended to
inflate in moderate to severe side
crashes. In addition, these roof‐rail
airbags are intended to inflate
during a rollover or in a severe
frontal impact. Seat-mounted side
impact and roof-rail airbags will
inflate if the crash severity is above
the system's designed threshold
level. The threshold level can vary
with specific vehicle design.

Roof‐rail airbags are not intended to
inflate in rear impacts. Both roof‐rail
airbags will deploy when either side
of the vehicle is struck or if the
sensing system predicts that the
vehicle is about to roll over, or in
a severe frontal impact.

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3-34 Seats and Restraints

In any particular crash, no one
can say whether an airbag should
have inflated simply because of
the damage to a vehicle or because
of what the repair costs were.
For frontal airbags, inflation is
determined by what the vehicle
hits, the angle of the impact, and
how quickly the vehicle slows down.
For seat-mounted side impact and
roof-rail airbags, deployment is
determined by the location and
severity of the side impact.

In a rollover event, roof‐rail airbag
deployment is determined by the
direction of the roll.

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 the
airbag causing the bag to break out
of the cover and deploy. The inflator,
the airbag, and related hardware are
all part of the airbag module.

Frontal airbag modules are located
inside the steering wheel and
instrument panel. For vehicles with
seat-mounted side impact airbags,
there are airbag modules in the side
of the front seatbacks closest to
the door. For vehicles with roof-rail
airbags, there are airbag modules
in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the
side windows that have occupant
seating positions.

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 safety belts. Frontal
airbags distribute the force of
the impact more evenly over the
occupant's upper body, stopping
the occupant more gradually.
Seat-mounted side impact and
roof-rail airbags distribute the
force of the impact more evenly
over the occupant's upper body.

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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? on page 3‑32 for more
information.

Airbags should never be regarded
as anything more than a supplement
to safety belts.

What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates?

After the frontal airbags and
seat-mounted side impact airbags
inflate, they quickly deflate, so
quickly that some people may
not even realize an airbag inflated.
Roof-rail airbags may still be at least
partially inflated for some time after
they deploy. Some components of
the airbag module may be hot for

several minutes. For location of the
airbag modules, see What Makes
an Airbag Inflate? on page 3‑34.

The parts of the airbag that come
into contact with you may be warm,
but not too hot to touch. There may
be some smoke and dust coming
from the vents in the deflated
airbags. Airbag inflation does not
prevent the driver from seeing out
of the windshield or being able to
steer the vehicle, nor does it prevent
people from leaving the vehicle.

WARNING

{

When an airbag inflates, there
may be 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

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

vehicle should get out as soon
as it is safe to do so. If you have
breathing problems but cannot
get out of the vehicle after an
airbag inflates, then get fresh air
by opening a window or a door.
If you experience breathing
problems following an airbag
deployment, you should seek
medical attention.

The vehicle has a feature that may
automatically unlock the doors, turn
on the interior lamps and hazard
warning flashers, and shut off the
fuel system after the airbags inflate.
You can lock the doors, turn off the
interior lamps and hazard warning
flashers by using the controls for
those features.

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WARNING

{

A crash severe enough to
inflate the airbags may have
also damaged important functions
in the vehicle, such as the fuel
system, brake and steering
systems, etc. Even if the vehicle
appears to be drivable after a
moderate crash, there may be
concealed damage that could
make it difficult to safely operate
the vehicle.

Use caution if you should attempt
to restart the engine after a crash
has occurred.

In many crashes severe enough
to inflate the airbag, windshields
are broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage
may also occur from the right front
passenger airbag.

.

Airbags are designed to inflate
only once. After an airbag
inflates, you will need some
new parts for the airbag system.
If you do not get them, the
airbag system will not be there
to help protect you in another
crash. A new system will include
airbag modules and possibly
other parts. The service manual
for your vehicle covers the need
to replace other parts.

.

The vehicle has a crash
sensing and diagnostic module
which records information after
a crash. See Vehicle Data

Recording and Privacy on
page 13‑18 and Event Data
Recorders on page 13‑18.

.

Let only qualified technicians
work on the airbag systems.
Improper service can mean that
an airbag system will not work
properly. See your dealer for
service.

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Passenger Sensing System

The vehicle has a passenger
sensing system for the right front
passenger position. The passenger
airbag status indicator will be visible
on the instrument panel when the
vehicle is started.

The words ON and OFF will be
visible during the system check.
If you are using remote start,

if equipped, to start the vehicle from
a distance you may not see the
system check. When the system
check is complete, either the word
ON or the word OFF will be visible.
See Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator on page 5‑15.

The passenger sensing system
turns off the right front passenger
frontal airbag under certain
conditions. The driver airbags,
seat‐mounted side impact airbags,
and roof‐rail airbags are not affected
by the passenger sensing system.

The passenger sensing system
works with sensors that are part
of the right front passenger seat.

The sensors are designed to detect
the presence of a properly-seated
occupant and determine if the
right front passenger frontal airbag
should be enabled (may inflate)
or not.

According to accident statistics,
children are safer when properly
secured in a rear seat in the
correct child restraint for their
weight and size.

We recommend that children be
secured in a rear seat, including:
an infant or a child riding in a
rear-facing child restraint; a child
riding in a forward-facing child seat;
an older child riding in a booster
seat; and children, who are large
enough, using safety belts.

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A label on the sun visor says,
“Never put a rear-facing child seat
in the front.” This is because the risk
to the rear-facing child is so great,
if the airbag deploys.

WARNING

{

A child in a rear-facing child
restraint can be seriously
injured or killed if the right
front passenger airbag inflates.
This is because the back of the
rear-facing child restraint would
be very close to the inflating
airbag. A child in a forward-facing
child restraint can be seriously
injured or killed if the right front
passenger airbag inflates and the
passenger seat is in a forward
position.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

Even if the passenger sensing
system has turned off the right
front passenger frontal airbag,
no system is fail-safe. No one
can guarantee that an airbag will
not deploy under some unusual
circumstance, even though the
airbag is turned off.

Secure rear-facing child
restraints in a rear seat, even if
the airbag is off. If you secure a
forward-facing child restraint in
the right front seat, always move
the front passenger seat as far
back as it will go. It is better to
secure the child restraint in a
rear seat.

The passenger sensing system is
designed to turn off the right front
passenger frontal airbag if:

.

The right front passenger seat is
unoccupied.

.

The system determines that an
infant is present in a rear-facing
infant seat.

.

The system determines that a
small child is present in a child
restraint.

.

The system determines that
a small child is present in a
booster seat.

.

A right front passenger takes
his/her weight off of the seat for
a period of time.

.

The right front passenger seat is
occupied by a smaller person,
such as a child who has
outgrown child restraints.

.

Or, if there is a critical problem
with the airbag system or the
passenger sensing system.

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When the passenger sensing
system has turned off the right
front passenger frontal airbag,
the off indicator will light and stay
lit to remind you that the airbags
are off. See Passenger Airbag
Status Indicator on page 5‑15.

The passenger sensing system is
designed to turn on (may inflate)
the right front passenger frontal
airbag anytime the system senses
that a person of adult size is sitting
properly in the right front passenger
seat. When the passenger sensing
system has allowed the airbag to be
enabled, the on indicator will light
and stay lit to remind you that the
airbag is active.

For some children who have
outgrown child restraints and for
very small adults, the passenger
sensing system may or may not turn

off the right front passenger
frontal airbag, depending upon
the person's seating posture
and body build. Everyone in the
vehicle who has outgrown child
restraints should wear a safety
belt properly — whether or not
there is an airbag for that person.

WARNING

{

If the airbag readiness light ever
comes on and stays on, it means
that something may be wrong
with the airbag system. To help
avoid injury to yourself or others,
have the vehicle serviced right
away. See Airbag Readiness
Light on page 5‑14 for more
information, including important
safety information.

If the On Indicator is Lit for a
Child Restraint

If a child restraint has been installed
and the on indicator is lit:

1. Turn the vehicle off.

2. Remove the child restraint from
the vehicle.

3. Remove any additional items
from the seat such as blankets,
cushions, seat covers, seat
heaters, or seat massagers.

4. Reinstall the child restraint
following the directions
provided by the child restraint
manufacturer and refer to

Securing Child Restraints
(Rear Seat) on page 3‑61 or
Securing Child Restraints (Front
Passenger Seat) on page 3‑63.

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5. If, after reinstalling the child
restraint and restarting the
vehicle, the on indicator is
still lit, turn the vehicle off.
Then slightly recline the vehicle
seatback and adjust the seat
cushion, if adjustable, to make
sure that the vehicle seatback
is not pushing the child restraint
into the seat cushion.

Also make sure the child
restraint is not trapped under
the vehicle head restraint.
If this happens, adjust the
head restraint. See Head
Restraints on page 3‑2.

6. Restart the vehicle.

If the on indicator is still lit,
secure the child in the child
restraint in a rear seat position
in the vehicle, and check with
your dealer.

If the Off Indicator is Lit for an
Adult-Size Occupant

If a person of adult-size is sitting
in the right front passenger seat,
but the off indicator is lit, it could be
because that person is not sitting
properly in the seat. If this happens,

use the following steps to allow the
system to detect that person and
enable the right front passenger
frontal airbag:

1. Turn the vehicle off.

2. Remove any additional material
from the seat, such as blankets,
cushions, seat covers, seat
heaters, or seat massagers.

3. Place the seatback in the fully
upright position.

4. Have the person sit upright in
the seat, centered on the seat
cushion, with legs comfortably
extended.

5. Restart the vehicle and have the
person remain in this position for
two to three minutes after the on
indicator is lit.

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Additional Factors Affecting
System Operation

Safety belts help keep the
passenger in position on the
seat during vehicle maneuvers
and braking, which helps the
passenger sensing system
maintain the passenger airbag
status. See “Safety Belts” and
“Child Restraints” in the Index for
additional information about the
importance of proper restraint use.

A thick layer of additional material,
such as a blanket or cushion,
or aftermarket equipment such
as seat covers, seat heaters, and
seat massagers can affect how
well the passenger sensing system
operates. We recommend that
you not use seat covers or other
aftermarket equipment except when
approved by GM for your specific
vehicle. See Adding Equipment to

the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on
page 3‑42 for more information

about modifications that can
affect how the system operates.

WARNING

{

Stowing of articles under the
passenger seat or between the
passenger seat cushion and
seatback may interfere with the
proper operation of the passenger
sensing system.

Servicing the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle

Airbags affect how the vehicle
should be serviced. There are
parts of the airbag system in
several places around the vehicle.
Your dealer and the service manual
have information about servicing
the vehicle and the airbag system.
To purchase a service manual,
see Service Publications Ordering
Information on page 13‑15.

WARNING

{

For up to 10 seconds after the
ignition is turned off and the
battery is disconnected, an airbag
can still inflate during improper
service. You can be injured if you
are close to an airbag when it
inflates. Avoid yellow connectors.
They are probably part of the
airbag system. Be sure to follow
proper service procedures, and
make sure the person performing
work for you is qualified to do so.

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

3-42 Seats and Restraints

Adding Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle

Q: Is there anything I might add

to or change about the vehicle
that could keep the airbags
from working properly?

A: Yes. If you add things that

change the vehicle's frame,
bumper system, height, front
end or side sheet metal, they
may keep the airbag system
from working properly. Changing
or moving any parts of the front
seats, safety belts, the airbag
sensing and diagnostic module,
steering wheel, instrument
panel, roof-rail airbag modules,
ceiling headliner or pillar garnish
trim, front sensors, side impact
sensors, or airbag wiring can
affect the operation of the airbag
system.

In addition, the vehicle has a
passenger sensing system
for the right front passenger
position, which includes sensors

that are part of the passenger
seat. The passenger sensing
system may not 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).
See Passenger Sensing
System on page 3‑37.

If you have questions,
call Customer Assistance.
The phone numbers and
addresses for Customer

Assistance are in Step Two
of the Customer Satisfaction
Procedure in this manual.
See Customer Satisfaction

Procedure (U.S. and Canada) on
page 13‑1 or Customer
Satisfaction Procedure (Mexico)
on page 13‑3.

Q: Because I have a disability,

I have to get my vehicle
modified. How can I find out
whether this will affect my
airbag system?

A: If you have questions,

call Customer Assistance.
The phone numbers and
addresses for Customer
Assistance are in Step Two
of the Customer Satisfaction
Procedure in this manual.
See Customer Satisfaction

Procedure (U.S. and Canada) on
page 13‑1 or Customer
Satisfaction Procedure (Mexico)
on page 13‑3.

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

Seats and Restraints 3-43

In addition, your dealer and the
service manual have information
about the location of the airbag
sensors, sensing and diagnostic
module and airbag wiring.

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 on
page 5‑14 for more information.

Notice: 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 covers,
have the airbag covering and/or
airbag module replaced. For the
location of the airbag modules,
see What Makes an Airbag
Inflate? on page 3‑34. 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 work properly and
may not 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
on page 5‑14 for more information.

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Buick LaCrosse Owner Manual - 2011

3-44 Seats and Restraints

Child Restraints

Older Children

Older children who have outgrown
booster seats should wear the
vehicle's safety belts.

The manufacturer's instructions that
come with the booster seat, state
the weight and height limitations for
that booster. Use a booster seat
with a lap-shoulder belt until the
child passes the below fit test:

.

Sit all the way back on the seat.
Do the knees bend at the seat
edge? If yes, continue. If no,
return to the booster seat.

.

Buckle the lap-shoulder belt.
Does the shoulder belt rest on
the shoulder? If yes, continue.
If no, then return to the
booster seat.

.

Does the lap belt fit low and
snug on the hips, touching the
thighs? If yes, continue. If no,
return to the booster seat.

.

Can proper safety belt fit be
maintained for the length of
the trip? If yes, continue. If no,
return to the booster seat.

Q: What is the proper way to

wear safety belts?

A: An older child should wear a

lap-shoulder belt and get the
additional restraint a shoulder
belt can provide. The shoulder
belt should not cross the face
or neck. The lap belt should fit
snugly below the hips, just
touching the top of the thighs.
This applies belt force to the
child's pelvic bones in a crash.
It should never be worn over the
abdomen, which could cause
severe or even fatal internal
injuries in a crash.

According to accident statistics,
children and infants are safer
when properly restrained in a child
restraint system or infant restraint
system secured in a rear seating
position.

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Seats and Restraints 3-45

In a crash, children who are not
buckled up can strike other people
who are buckled up, or can be
thrown out of the vehicle. Older
children need to use safety belts
properly.

WARNING

{

Never do this.

Never allow two children to wear
the same safety belt. The safety
belt can not properly spread the
impact forces. In a crash, the two
children can be crushed together
and seriously injured. A safety
belt must be used by only one
person at a time.

WARNING

{

Never do this.

Never allow a child to wear the
safety belt with the shoulder belt
behind their back. A child can be
seriously injured by not wearing
the lap-shoulder belt properly.
In a crash, the child would not be
restrained by the shoulder belt.
The child could move too far

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

forward increasing the chance of
head and neck injury. The child
might also slide under the lap
belt. The belt force would then
be applied right on the abdomen.
That could cause serious or fatal
injuries. The shoulder belt should
go over the shoulder and across
the chest.

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3-46 Seats and Restraints

Infants and Young Children

Everyone in a vehicle needs
protection! This includes infants
and all other children. Neither the
distance traveled nor the age and
size of the traveler changes the
need, for everyone, to use safety
restraints. In fact, the law in every
state in the United States and in
every Canadian province says
children up to some age must be
restrained while in a vehicle.

WARNING

{

Children can be seriously injured
or strangled if a shoulder belt
is wrapped around their neck
and the safety belt continues
to tighten. Never leave children
unattended in a vehicle and never
allow children to play with the
safety belts.

Airbags plus lap‐shoulder belts
offer protection for adults and older
children, but not for young children

and infants. Neither the vehicle's
safety belt system nor its airbag
system is designed for them. Every
time infants and young children ride
in vehicles, they should have the
protection provided by appropriate
child restraints.

Children who are not restrained
properly can strike other people,
or can be thrown out of the vehicle.