Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile utility and a comfortable ride, with a preference for American styling and features.
Key Competitors:
Ford Freestyle, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano, Dodge Durango (older generation).
Unique Selling Points:
Unique unibody construction derived from minivan platform, optional third-row seating (in some configurations), comfortable and quiet ride, distinctive styling for its era.
Powertrain Options:
Available V6 engines, offering a balance of power and refinement.
Content Overview:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 250-300 pages (based on typical 2003 GM owner's manuals of this type)
Powertrain:
Engine compartment layout, engine oil, battery, fuel information, air filter(s).
Chassis:
Brake system overview (within driving section), steering system overview (within driving section), suspension system overview (within driving section).
Electrical:
Instrument cluster indicators, lighting controls, entertainment systems, climate controls, locks and security systems, driver controls (e.g., power windows, mirrors).
Interior:
Seating adjustments, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), climate control operation, interior lighting.
Safety:
Safety restraints, airbag system operation, child safety seat installation, vehicle security features.
Maintenance:
Basic fluid checks (engine oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire inflation checks, battery maintenance, air filter replacement instructions (general), cleaning procedures.
Operation:
Starting and operating the vehicle, using climate control, operating the audio system, adjusting seats and mirrors, using headlights and wipers, understanding dashboard indicators.
Troubleshooting:
Basic troubleshooting for warning lights, basic lock/security issues, basic climate control issues (as covered by owner's manual scope).
Emergency:
Information on tire changing (if included in owner's manual), jump starting the vehicle (if included), basic emergency procedures.
Depth:
Covers owner-level information for daily operation, maintenance checks, and basic understanding of vehicle systems. Does not include detailed repair procedures, diagnostic trouble codes, or component-level diagnostics typically found in service or repair manuals.
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 107 cu ft (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 39 cu ft (with 3rd row folded)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 88 cu ft (with 3rd row folded)
Curb Weight FWD:
Approx. 3900 - 4100 lbs
Curb Weight AWD:
Approx. 4100 - 4300 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Typically rated at 3500 lbs (check specific vehicle configuration).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for 2003 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for 2003 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star (for 2003 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star (for 2003 models)
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (for 2003 models)
Traction Control:
Available (Traction Control System - TCS)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available front side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchor system.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound systems, and rear-seat entertainment options.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically standard on 2003 models; aftermarket solutions or later model updates might offer this.
Headlights:
Halogen multi-reflector headlights, automatic headlamp control may be available.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific guidance based on driving conditions).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Consult manual; typically every 50,000 to 100,000 miles depending on use.
Engine Oil Viscosity 3.4L:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Viscosity 3.6L:
SAE 5W-30 (may differ slightly, confirm with manual)
Coolant Type:
GM DEX-COOL® (Orange) Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant
Transmission Fluid Type:
GM DEXRON®-III (or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron®-III ATF
Engine Oil Capacity 3.4L:
4.5 US quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.6L:
5.0 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 11.5 - 12.0 US quarts
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18.0 US gallons
Common Problems General:
Occasional issues with power steering pumps, potential for transmission fluid leaks, some reports of catalytic converter issues, interior trim wear. Electrical components can sometimes be a concern in older vehicles.
Oil Filter Example:
AC Delco PF1218, Fram PH3500, Mobil 1 M1-110A (Example numbers, always verify with specific vehicle VIN).
Air Filter Example:
AC Delco A1962C, Fram CA8003 (Example numbers, always verify with specific vehicle VIN).
Manufacturer:
Buick, a division of General Motors (GM).
Introduction Year:
Introduced for the 2002 model year.
Platform Origin:
Based on the GM U-body platform, shared with Pontiac Aztek and Buick Terraza (later model).
Production Location:
General Motors Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City, Kansas.
Production Years:
2002-2007