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Maintenance Information Buick Skylark VI

Procedures 7 illustrations ~1365 words

MODEL IDENTIFICATION

Note. For scheduled maintenance intervals and the related fluid capacities, fluid specifications and labor times for major service intervals, see the SCHEDULED SERVICES article in this section. Warranty information and specifications for fluid capacities, lubrication specifications, wheel and tire size, and battery type are covered in this article.

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 1

Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation
Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Severe Service

  1. Short Trips (4 Miles Or Less)
  2. Towing Or Heavily Loaded
  3. Severe Dust Conditions
  4. Hot Weather, Stop-And-Go Driving
  5. Extensive Idling Conditions (Taxi Or Delivery Type Service)

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Severe Service Operating Conditions

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS
Scheme 2: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS

Scheme 3

Scheme 3
Scheme 3

Scheme 4

Scheme 4
Scheme 4

Note. Before changing oil filter on 2.5L engines refer to the 88-6-40 IN-PAN OIL FILTER REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE article in the TSB section.

Scheme 5

Scheme 5
Scheme 5

SERVICE LABOR TIMES

Note. For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor times are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE INTERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.

TIRE INFLATION

Tire pressure specification decal is attached to the rear face of the driver's door. Inflation pressures listed on decal is always cold inflation pressure and must never exceed the maximum values molded into the tire side wall. These pressures provide the best balance of fuel economy, tire life, riding comfort and handling, and should be used for all driving conditions.

WHEEL TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS

ApplicationSpecification
Skylark & Somerset100 ft. lbs. (140 N.m)
(1) Always tighten wheel lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. All wheel lug nuts have right-hand threads.
(1)Always tighten wheel lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. All wheel lug nuts have right-hand threads.

WHEEL TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS (1)

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

All models use BCI group 75A batteries.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should be installed by qualified professionals.

On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions

  1. DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
  2. DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
  3. Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.

BATTERY WARNING

WARNINGWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

CAUTIONIndicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

CAUTIONContinued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and vehicle.

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

CAUTIONTo avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C)
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

ENGINE OIL

CAUTIONNever use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component (fuel injection models).

HALOGEN BULBS

WARNINGHalogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

RADIATOR FAN

WARNINGKeep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONDue to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options.

BUMPER-TO-BUMPER PLUS COVERAGE LIMITED WARRANTY

Everything covered for 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Covered by this warranty are any repairs to vehicle components which have proven defective in material and workmanship during normal use (tires excluded). Warranty repairs (parts and labor) will be made by the Dealer at no charge using new or remanufactured parts. This warranty is subject to a 100 deductible for each repair visit after the first year or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Maintenance items are covered up to their first scheduled replacement interval only.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINT COVERAGE

Covers supplemental restraint system (if equipped) for 3 years, regardless of mileage.

CORROSION COVERAGE

Any body-sheet metal panel that is perforated due to corrosion is covered for 6 years or 100,000 miles whichever occurs first.

EMISSIONS "DEFECT" WARRANTY/"PERFORMANCE" WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Defect Warranty ensures that vehicle meets applicable EPA regulations and that vehicle's emission control system is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

The Performance Warranty covers all costs of repairing or adjusting any components or parts as needed in order for the vehicle to pass a federally required state or local emissions test.

Other emission control parts related to these components are covered by the Performance Warranty, where applicable. If another part fails due to the failure of one of these components, both parts are covered. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.

EMISSION "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If vehicle fails a Smog Check inspection, all necessary repairs and adjustments will be made by manufacturer to ensure that vehicle passes the inspection. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

EMISSION "DEFECT" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If any emission-related part on the vehicle is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Some emission-related parts are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles whichever occurs first, and will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer if found to be defective in material or workmanship. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.

FUSES & CIRCUIT BREAKERS

Wiring circuits in vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers and fusible thermal links. This greatly reduces the chance of fires should an electrical overload occur. The windshield wipers and headlight circuits are protected by circuit breakers. These systems may cycle on and off if a short occurs. Have systems inspected immediately to correct the cause of overloading.

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1985-89 SKYLARK & SOMERSET)
Scheme 6: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1985-89 SKYLARK & SOMERSET)

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

  1. 1 - 20 Amp - Taillights
  2. 2 - 25 Amp - Windshield Wiper
  3. 3 - 25 Amp (1985-88) Fuel Pump (4-Cylinder) Blank (1989)
  4. 4 - 25 Amp - Fuel Pump (V6)
  5. 5 - 20 Amp - Turn Signals, Back-Up Lights
  6. 6 - 10 Amp - Gauges
  7. 7 - 20 Amp (1985-88) - Engine Cooling Fan Blank (1989)
  8. 8 - 25 Amp - Heater, A/C
  9. 9 - 10 Amp - ECM & Ignition (1985-88 V6), ECM Relays (1989)
  10. 10 - 10 Amp - ECM (4-Cylinder)
  11. 11 - 10 Amp (1985-88) Starter Motor Blank (1989)
  12. 12 - 5 Amp - Instrument Panel Lights
  13. 13 - 20 Amp - Stoplights, Hazard Lights
  14. 14 - 10 Amp (1985-88) - ECM Relay, Engine & Emission Control Relays Blank (1989-91)
  15. 15 - 20 Amp - Clock, Cigarette Lighter
  16. 16 - 10 Amp - Radio
  17. 17 - 20 Amp - Courtesy Lights

Scheme 7

Scheme 7: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1990-91 SKYLARK)
Scheme 7: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1990-91 SKYLARK)
  1. 1 - 20 Amp - Front & Rear Marker Lights, Parking Lights, Taillights, License Lights, Instrument Panel, Interior Lights
  2. 2 - 20 Amp - Interior Lights, Luggage Compartment Light, Warning & Alarms/Chime
  3. 3 - 10 Amp - Cruise Control (4-Cylinder VIN D & V6 VIN N), Radio
  4. 4 - 20 Amp - Cigarette Lighter, Horns, Power Antenna, Power Door Locks
  5. 5 - 20 Amp - Turn Signals, Hazard Light, Stoplight
  6. 6 - 20 Amp - Multi-Port Fuel Injection, Ignition (4 Cylinder VIN D & V6 VIN N)
  7. 7 - 5 Amp - Interior Lights Dimming, Radio, Rear Window Defogger, Warning & Alarms/Chime
  8. 8 - 10 Amp - Air Conditioning, Anti-Lock Brakes (4-Cylinder), Cruise Control (4-Cylinder), Electronic Fuel Injection: Power (4-Cylinder VIN U), Multiport Fuel Injection: Power, Engine Data Sensors (V6 VIN N), Multiport Fuel Injection: Power (4-Cylinder VIN D), Starter & Charging System
  9. 9 - 30 Amp Circuit Breaker - Power Door Locks, Power Seats, Rear Window Defogger
  10. 10 - 30 Amp Circuit Breaker Power Windows
  11. 11 - 25 Amp - Air Conditioning, Anti-Lock Brakes, Coolant Fan, Daytime Running Lights, Heater, Luggage Compartment Lid Release
  12. 12 - 10 Amp - Instrument Panel, Interior Lights, Rear Window Defogger, Warning & Alarms/Chime
  13. 13 - 20 Amp - Back-Up Lights, Turn Signals, Hazard Lights, Stoplights
  14. 14 - 20 Amp - Electronic Fuel Injection: Fuel Control & Injector (4-Cylinder VIN U), Multiport Fuel Injection: Fuel Control & Injectors (4-Cylinder VIN D, V6 VIN N)
  15. 15 - 10 Amp - Radio
  16. 16 - 25 Amp - Windshield Wiper/Washer

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