1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette wiper blades

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2-57
Windshield Wipers
You control the windshield wipers by turning the band
marked WIPER.
For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold
it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will
stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the
band on mist longer.
For delayed wiping cycles, you can set the wiper speed
for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be
very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to
choose the delay time. The closer to LOW, the shorter
the delay time.
For steady wiping cycles, at low speed, turn the band
away from you to the LOW position. For high
-speed
wiping, turn the band further to HIGH. To stop the
wipers, turn the band to OFF.
Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you
from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid
damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper
blades before using them. If they're frozen to the
windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your
blades do become damaged, get new blades or
blade inserts.Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. A circuit
breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away
snow or ice to prevent an overload.
Windshield Washer
To wash your windshield, press and hold the windshield
washer paddle. The washers and wipers will operate.
When you release the paddle, the washers will stop, and
the wipers will continue to operate for two cycles, unless
your wipers had already been on. In that case, the wipers
will resume the wiper speed you had selected earlier.
CAUTION:
In freezing weather, don't use your washer until
the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer
fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking
your vision.

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4-18
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet
road, you can't stop, accelerate or turn as well because
your tire
-to-road traction isn't as good as on dry roads.
And, if your tires don't have much tread left, you'll get
even less traction. It's always wise to go slower and be
cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The
surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are
tuned for driving on dry pavement.
The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your
windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain
can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals,
pavement markings, the edge of the road and even
people walking.
It's wise to keep your wiping equipment in good shape
and keep your windshield washer tank filled with
washer fluid. Replace your windshield wiper inserts
when they show signs of streaking or missing areas on
the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to separate
from the inserts.
Driving too fast through large water puddles or even
going through some car washes can cause problems, too.
The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles.
But if you can't, try to slow down before you hit them.

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4-22
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper
lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not,
under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to
the next exit.
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.
The exit speed is usually posted.
Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not
to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance
at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going
slower than you actually are.
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Make sure you're ready. Try to be well rested. If you
must start when you're not fresh
-- such as after a day's
work
-- don't plan to make too many miles that first part
of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you
can easily drive in.
Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it
serviced and maintained, it's ready to go. If it needs
service, have it done before starting out. Of course,
you'll find experienced and able service experts in
Oldsmobile dealerships all across North America.
They'll be ready and willing to help if you need it.Here are some things you can check before a trip:

Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are
all windows clean inside and outside?

Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?

Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked
all levels?

Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?

Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,
trouble
-free trip. Is the tread good enough for
long
-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to the
recommended pressure?

Weather Forecasts: What's the weather outlook
along your route? Should you delay your trip a short
time to avoid a major storm system?

Maps: Do you have up
-to-date maps?

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6-38
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least
twice a year for wear and cracking. See ªWiper Blade
Checkº in Section 7 of this manual under Part B ªOwner
Checks and Servicesº for more information.
Replacement blades come in different types and are
removed in different ways. For proper type and length,
see ªNormal Maintenance Replacement Partsº in
the Index.
Here's how to remove the Sheperd's Hook type:
1. Turn the wipers on to the lowest intermittent setting.
2. Turn off the ignition while the wipers are at the outer
positions of the wipe pattern. The blades are more
accessible for removal/replacement while in
this position.
3. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from the
windshield or backglass.
4. While holding the wiper arm away from the glass,
push the release clip from under the blade
connecting point and pull the blade assembly down
toward the glass to remove it from the wiper arm.
5. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm
until you hear the release clip ªclickº into place.

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6-50
CAUTION:
Do not bleach or dye safety belts or the built-in
child restraint harness. If you do, they may be
severely weakened. In a crash, they might not be
able to provide adequate protection. Clean the
safety belts and the child restraint harness only
with mild soap and lukewarm water.
Cleaning Glass Surfaces
Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a
liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal
tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. (See
ªAppearance Care and Materialsº in the Index.)
Don't use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they may
cause scratches. Avoid placing decals on the inside rear
window, since they may have to be scraped off later. If
abrasive cleaners are used on the inside of the rear
window, an electric defogger element may be damaged.
Any temporary license should not be attached across the
defogger grid.
Cleaning the Outside of the
Windshield, Backglass and
Wiper Blades
If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield
washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running,
wax, sap or other material may be on the blade
or windshield.
Clean the outside of the windshield with GM
Windshield Cleaner, Bon Ami

Powder (non-scratching
glass cleaning powder), GM Part No. 1050011. The
windshield is clean if beads do not form when you rinse
it with water.
Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades
and affect their performance. Clean the blade by wiping
vigorously with a cloth soaked in full
-strength
windshield washer solvent. Then rinse the blade
with water.
Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary;
replace blades that look worn.

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6-65
Normal Maintenance
Replacement Parts
Air Cleaner Filter AC Type A-1208C . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Passenger Compartment
Air Cleaner Filter (2) 52482929. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Oil Filter PF47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spark Plugs AC Type 41
-940 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gap: 0.060 inches (1.5 mm)
Windshield Wiper Blades
Length 24.0 inches (60.0 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Type Sheperd's Hook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Backglass Wiper Blade
Length 16.0 inches (40.6 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Type Sheperd's Hook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle Dimensions - Regular Wheel Base
Length 187.4 inches (475.9 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Width 72.0 inches (183.0 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Height 67.4 inches (171.2 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheelbase 112.0 inches (284.5 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front Tread Width 61.5 inches (156.2 cm). . . . . . . . .
Rear Tread Width 63.3 inches (160.8 cm). . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle Dimensions - Extended Wheel Base
Length 201.4 inches (511.5 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Width 72.2 inches (183.4 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Height 68.1 inches (172.9 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheelbase 120.0 inches (304.7 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front Tread Width 61.5 inches (156.2 cm). . . . . . . . .
Rear Tread Width 63.3 inches (160.8 cm). . . . . . . . . .

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7-31 At Least Twice a Year
Restraint System Check
Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are
working properly. If your vehicle has a built
-in child
restraint, also periodically make sure the harness straps,
latch plates, buckle, clip, child head restraint and
anchorages are working properly. Look for any other
loose or damaged safety belt and built
-in child restraint
system parts. If you see anything that might keep a
safety belt or built
-in child restraint system from doing
its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety
belts or harness straps replaced.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings,
and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system
does not need regular maintenance.)
Wiper Blade Check
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade
inserts that appear worn or damaged or that streak or
miss areas of the windshield. Also see ªWiper Blades,
Cleaningº in the Index.Weatherstrip Lubrication
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone
grease with a clean cloth. During very cold, damp weather
more frequent application may be required. (See
ªRecommended Fluids and Lubricantsº in the Index.)
Automatic Transaxle Check
Check the transaxle fluid level; add if needed. See
ªAutomatic Transaxle Fluidº in the Index. A fluid loss
may indicate a problem. Check the system and repair
if needed.
At Least Once a Year
Key Lock Cylinders Service
Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant
specified in Part D.
Body Lubrication Service
Lubricate all body door hinges, including the liftgate.
Also lubricate all hinges and latches, including those for
the hood, sliding door track, power sliding door cable,
rear compartment, fuel door hinge, glove box door,
console door, and any folding seat hardware. Part D tells
you what to use. More frequent lubrication may be
required when exposed to a corrosive environment.

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9-3
Cleaning
Aluminum Wheels 6-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Built-in Child Restraint Pad 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exterior Lamps/Lenses 6-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fabric/Carpet 6-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glass 6-50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside of Your Vehicle 6-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument Panel 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior Plastic Components 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leather 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside of Your Vehicle 6-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Special Problems 6-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stains 6-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tires 6-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vinyl 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels 6-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield, Backglass and Wiper Blades 6-50 . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper Blades 6-50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Climate Control System 3-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clock, Setting the 3-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compact Disc
Care 3
-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Player 3-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Player Care 3-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Player Errors 3-17, 3-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Player, Remote 3-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compact Overhead Console 2-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compact Spare Tire 5-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Content Theft-Deterrent 2-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Arming Confirmation 2-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Arming with the Power Lock Switch 2-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Arming with the Remote Lock Control Transmitter 2-34 . . . .
Arming with Your Key 2-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Disarming with the Remote Lock
Control Transmitter 2
-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disarming with Your Key 2-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nuisance Alarms 2-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Control of a Vehicle 4-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convenience Net 2-74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convex Outside Mirror 2-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant 6-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding 6-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking 6-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heater, Engine 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recovery Tank 5-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What to Use 6-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cooling System 5-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Courtesy Transportation 8-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise Control 2-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cupholders 2-73 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer Assistance
For Text Telephone Users 8
-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Information 8-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Offices 8-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer Satisfaction Procedure 8-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Damage
Finish 6-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sheet Metal 6-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) 2-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dead Battery 5-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defects, Reporting Safety 8-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defensive Driving 4-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defogger, Rear Window 3-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defogging 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defrosting 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .