🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Rendezvous

Year:

2002

Oem Manual Identifier:

General Motors

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Buick Rendezvous 2002 was positioned as a versatile crossover SUV, blending the comfort and features of a luxury sedan with the utility and higher driving position of an SUV. It targeted families and individuals seeking a practical yet refined vehicle.

Competitors:

Competed against other mid-size crossover SUVs and minivans of the era, such as the Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Chevrolet Venture.

Distinguishing Features:

Available with a third-row seating option, comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, and a focus on passenger comfort and quietness.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Instrument Panel and Controls, Safety Seats, Seat Belts, Supplemental Air Bags, Pre-Driving Checks and Adjustments, Heater, Air Conditioner, Audio Systems, Starting and Driving, Emergency Procedures, Service and Appearance, Care, Maintenance, Do-it-Yourself Procedures, Technical Information, Consumer Information

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 250-300 pages (typical for a 2002 GM owner's manual, exact PDF count may vary slightly)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation basics, starting, driving, fuel system (basic information), cooling system (basic checks), exhaust system (basic checks)

Chassis:

Brake system operation, steering system operation, suspension system (basic understanding), wheels and tires (checks and inflation)

Electrical:

Instrument panel indicators and warning lights, lighting systems (headlights, interior lights), power outlets, basic fuse information (identification of common fuses)

Climate Control:

Heater and air conditioning system operation, controls, and basic adjustments

Safety Restraints:

Seat belt operation and adjustment, child seat installation (LATCH system and seat belt methods), supplemental air bag system (operation and precautions)

Interior:

Seat adjustment, dashboard controls, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system operation

Exterior:

Door operation, liftgate operation, fuel filler door operation, wiper and washer operation

Driving Operations:

Starting the engine, shifting gears, parking, driving tips, operating in different conditions

Pre Driving Checks:

Visual inspections, fluid level checks (basic), tire pressure checks

Emergency Procedures:

What to do in case of a flat tire, jump starting a dead battery, overheating, brake failure, accident procedures

Maintenance Do It Yourself:

Checking and replacing wiper blades, topping off windshield washer fluid, checking tire pressure, replacing light bulbs (common types), basic cleaning and appearance care

Care And Appearance:

Exterior cleaning, interior cleaning, upholstery care, protecting against corrosion

Depth:

Owner-focused, covering operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for clear printing on standard office printers

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3400 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 82.0 mm (3.62 in x 3.23 in)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Valve Train:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 Valves (2 per cylinder)

Horsepower:

185 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque:

210 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (Recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Model:

GM 4T65-E

Optional Transmission:

Not Available for 2002 Model Year

Driver Selectable Modes:

Standard Drive, Traction Control System (TCS) integration

📐 Dimensions

Length:

189.7 inches (4818 mm)

Width:

71.3 inches (1811 mm)

Height:

66.4 inches (1687 mm)

Wheelbase:

113.0 inches (2870 mm)

Front Track:

61.6 inches (1565 mm)

Rear Track:

61.6 inches (1565 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 105.5 cu ft (with 2-row seating)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 39.2 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 15.1 cu ft (if equipped)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,750 - 4,000 lbs (depending on drivetrain and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,100 - 5,300 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

4 Stars

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good (for its time)

Traction Control System:

Standard (TCS)

Anti Lock Braking System:

Standard (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, available side-impact airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front seats

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose premium audio system, available satellite radio integration (later models).

Climate Control Interface:

Manual or automatic climate control with rotary dials and push buttons for fan speed, temperature, and mode selection.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system for highway driving comfort.

Auxiliary Power Outlets:

Standard 12V auxiliary power outlets for charging electronic devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type used). Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (or as per tire manufacturer recommendations)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (check for dirt and debris more frequently)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 100,000 miles for original equipment platinum or iridium plugs (consult manual for specific type and interval).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 3.8L V6: SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change

Coolant Type:

GM DEX-COOL® (Orange) or equivalent OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant

Transmission Fluid Type:

GM DEXRON®-III (H) or DEXRON®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type, often Dexron compatible)

Common Problems:

Some reported issues include transmission problems (shifting, solenoid issues), power steering leaks, catalytic converter failures, and issues with the rear liftgate actuator or sensor. The interior plastics could also be prone to wear or fading.

Recall Information Availability:

Recalls may exist for specific safety or emissions components. Users should consult official recall databases (e.g., NHTSA) for their VIN.

📚 Vehicle History

Buick Heritage:

Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history dating back to 1899, known for offering vehicles with a focus on comfort, quietness, and a premium feel.

Rendezvous Introduction:

The Buick Rendezvous was introduced for the 2002 model year as GM's first unibody crossover SUV, built on the U-body platform shared with minivans like the Pontiac Aztek and Chevrolet Venture. It was designed to offer a more car-like driving experience than traditional truck-based SUVs.

Platform:

GM U-body platform

Manufacturing Location:

Mexico (General Motors Ramos Arizpe Assembly Plant)

Production Years:

2002-2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Achieved high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its class at the time of introduction, particularly in frontal impact tests.

Design Mentions:

While not a recipient of major design awards, its styling was considered a departure from traditional SUV/minivan designs, aiming for a more sophisticated appearance.