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Introduction
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Market Position
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Market Position:
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The Buick Rendezvous for 2006 was positioned as a mid-size crossover SUV, often marketed towards families and individuals seeking a more car-like driving experience compared to traditional truck-based SUVs. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Freestyle, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitive Analysis:
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The Rendezvous offered a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a focus on utility. Its front-wheel-drive platform (with available all-wheel drive) and unibody construction contributed to a more refined driving experience than some competitors. The manual addresses these aspects by covering the specific engineering and repair procedures unique to its platform and components.
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Key Features
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Key Features:
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The 2006 Buick Rendezvous featured available third-row seating, a focus on comfort and quietness, and the availability of GM's Series III 3800 V6 engine. The manual is crucial for owners and technicians to maintain these features and address potential issues.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Systems Covered:
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Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, transmission (automatic), driveline, brakes (hydraulic and ABS), steering, suspension (front and rear), body electrical, climate control, interior/exterior trim, body panels, chassis, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting charts, wiring diagrams.
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Diagnostic Procedures:
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Includes detailed diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, using OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and specific troubleshooting flowcharts.
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Wiring Diagrams:
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Features comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.
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Procedures Included
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Procedures Included:
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Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, component removal and installation, diagnostic testing, repair procedures, component rebuilding, specifications for torque, alignment, and clearances, troubleshooting steps for common and uncommon issues.
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Electrical Component Testing:
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Covers testing and repair of various electrical components including sensors, actuators, lighting, power windows, door locks, and the instrument cluster.
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Technical Depth
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Technical Depth:
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Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes and filter replacements to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair procedures.
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Torque Specifications:
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Provides specific torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle, essential for proper assembly and component integrity.
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Safety Features
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Ratings
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NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
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5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
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NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Rating:
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4-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)
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IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
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Good
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Active Features
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Active Safety Features:
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Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), available All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
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Passive Features
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Passive Safety Features:
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Dual-stage front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available rear-seat side-impact airbags, LATCH child seat anchors, three-point seatbelts for all occupants, rear child door locks.
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Technology Features
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Infotainment
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Infotainment System Features:
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Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, available premium audio systems (e.g., Bose), optional rear-seat entertainment system, available satellite radio.
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Driver Assistance
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Driver Assistance Features:
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Cruise control, rear park assist (optional), automatic climate control (optional).
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Connectivity
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Connectivity Features:
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N/A (Limited connectivity features by modern standards, primarily focused on audio and entertainment).
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact recommendations).
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Air Filter Replacement Interval:
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Every 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
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Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
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Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
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Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
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Every 50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km), or more frequently under severe use.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Specification:
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API Certified SAE 5W-30 (for 3.5L LX9 and 3.6L LY7)
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Engine Coolant Specification:
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GM P/N 12346290 (Orange/Yellow) or equivalent Dex-Cool® compatible antifreeze/coolant.
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Brake Fluid Specification:
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DOT 3
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Power Steering Fluid Specification:
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GM P/N 12345774 or equivalent Dexron III/VI ATF
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Known Issues
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Common Issues Noted:
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Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 3800 Series II, less common on LY7), power steering pump whine, HVAC blower motor issues, ABS sensor failures, occasional transmission solenoid issues, fuel level sensor inaccuracies. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures for these.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Brand Heritage Buick:
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Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history dating back to 1899, known for its focus on comfort, quietness, and premium features within the GM lineup. The Rendezvous aimed to carry this legacy into the SUV segment.
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Model Evolution
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Rendezvous Introduction Year:
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2002
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Rendezvous Platform:
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Based on GM's U-body platform, shared with the Pontiac Aztek. This unibody construction was a departure from traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
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Rendezvous Facelift Year:
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2004 (minor refresh including updated styling and features)
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Production
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Rendezvous Production Years:
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2002-2007
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Rendezvous Manufacturing Location:
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General Motors Fairfax Assembly plant, Kansas City, Kansas
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