Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
Lighting 99
If the vehicle is started in a dark garage, the
automatic headlamp system comes on
immediately. If it is light outside when the
vehicle leaves the garage, there is a slight
delay before the automatic headlamp
system changes to the DRL. During that
delay, the instrument cluster may not be as
bright as usual. Make sure the instrument
panel brightness control is in the full bright
position. SeeInstrument Panel Illumination
Control 0100.
Lights On with Wipers
If the windshield wipers are activated in
daylight with the engine on, and the
exterior lamp control is in AUTO, the
headlamps, parking lamps, and other
exterior lamps come on. The transition time
for the lamps coming on varies based on
wiper speed. When the wipers are not
operating, these lamps turn off. Move the
exterior lamp control to
Por;to
disable this feature.
Hazard Warning Flashers
|: Press and momentarily hold to make
the front and rear turn signal lamps flash on
and off. This warns others that you are
having trouble. Press and momentarily hold
again to turn the flashers off.
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
Move the lever all the way up or down to
signal a turn.
An arrow on the instrument cluster will
flash in the direction of the turn or lane
change.
Raise or lower the lever until the arrow
starts to flash to signal a lane change. The
turn signal flashes three times.
The lever returns to its starting position
when it is released.
If after signaling a turn or lane change the
arrow flashes rapidly or does not come on, a
signal bulb may be burned out. Replace any
burned out bulbs. If a bulb is not burned
out, check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit
Breakers 0226.
Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
100 Lighting
Interior Lighting
Instrument Panel Illumination
Control
This feature adjusts the brightness of all
illuminated controls. The instrument panel
illumination control is next to the exterior
lamp control.
Push the knob in all the way until it extends
out and then turn the knob clockwise or
counterclockwise to brighten or dim the
lights. Push the knob back in when finished.
The knob is functional at night, or when
headlamps or the parking lamps are ON.
Courtesy Lamps
The courtesy lamps come on automatically
when any door is opened and the dome
lamp is in the door position.
Dome Lamps
Front and Rear Dome Lamps
The front dome lamp controls are in the
overhead console.
(:Press to turn the lamps off, even when
a door is open.
H: When the button is returned to the
middle position, the lamps turn on
automatically when a door is opened.
': Press to turn on the dome lamps.
The rear dome lamp controls are in the
headliner above the rear seats.
9:Press to turn the lamps off, even when
a door is open.
H: When the button is returned to the
middle position, the lamps turn on
automatically when a door is opened.
R: Press to turn on the dome lamps.
Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
Lighting 101
Reading Lamps
The front reading lamps are in the overhead
console.
#or$:Press to turn each lamp on
or off.
Lighting Features
Entry Lighting
Some exterior lamps and interior lamps turn
on briefly at night, or in areas with limited
lighting, when
Kis pressed on the Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. When a
door is opened, the interior lamps come on.
They stay on for about 20 seconds. When all of the doors have been closed or the
ignition is turned on, they gradually
fade out.
This feature can be changed. See
“Vehicle
Locator Lights” underVehicle Personalization
(8 Inch Screen) 089 or
Vehicle Personalization (7 Inch Screen) 094.
Exit Lighting
Some exterior lamps and interior lights
come on at night, or in areas with limited
lighting, when the driver door is opened
after the ignition is turned off. The interior
lamps come on after the ignition is turned
off. The exterior lamps and interior lamps
remain on for a set amount of time, then
automatically turn off.
The exterior lamps turn off immediately by
turning the exterior lamp control off.
This feature can be changed. See Vehicle
Personalization (8 Inch Screen) 089 or
Vehicle Personalization (7 Inch Screen) 094.
Battery Load Management
The vehicle has Electric Power Management
(EPM) that estimates the battery's
temperature and state of charge. It then
adjusts the voltage for best performance
and extended life of the battery.
When the battery's state of charge is low,
the voltage is raised slightly to quickly bring
the charge back up. When the state of
charge is high, the voltage is lowered
slightly to prevent overcharging. If the
vehicle has a voltmeter gauge or a voltage
display on the Driver Information Center
(DIC), you may see the voltage move up or
down. This is normal. If there is a problem,
an alert will be displayed.
The battery can be discharged at idle if the
electrical loads are very high. This is true for
all vehicles. This is because the generator
(alternator) may not be spinning fast
enough at idle to produce all the power
needed for very high electrical loads.
A high electrical load occurs when several of
the following are on, such as: headlamps,
high beams, fog lamps, rear window
defogger, climate control fan at high speed,
Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
174 Driving and Operating
Ignition Positions
The vehicle has an electronic keyless ignition
with pushbutton start. The RKE transmitter
must be in the vehicle for the system to
operate.
If the vehicle is not working, the vehicle
may be near a strong antenna signal
causing interference to the Keyless Access
system. SeeRemote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation 07.
To shift out of P (Park), the ignition must be
on or in ACC/ACCESSORY, and the brake
must be applied. Stopping the Engine/LOCK/OFF (No Indicator
Lights) :
When the vehicle is stopped, press
ENGINE START/STOP once to turn the engine
off. If the vehicle is in P (Park), the ignition
will turn off, and Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) will remain active. See Retained
Accessory Power (RAP) 0178.
If the vehicle is not in P (Park), the ignition
will return to ACC/ACCESSORY and the Driver
Information Center (DIC) will display the
message SHIFT TO PARK.
When the vehicle is shifted into P (Park), the
ignition system turn off.
Do not turn the ignition off when the
vehicle is moving. This will cause a loss of
power assist in the brake and steering
systems and disable the airbags.
If the vehicle must be shut off in an
emergency: 1. Brake using a firm steady pressure. Do not pump the brakes repeatedly. This
may deplete power assist, requiring
increased brake pedal force.
2. Shift the vehicle to N (Neutral). This can be done while the vehicle is moving.
After shifting to N (Neutral), firmly apply
the brakes and steer the vehicle to a
safe location. 3. Come to a complete stop, shift to
P (Park), and turn the ignition off.
4. Set the parking brake. See Parking Brake
0 184.
{Warning
Turning off the vehicle while moving may
cause loss of power assist in the brake
and steering systems and disable the
airbags. While driving, only shut the
vehicle off in an emergency.
If the vehicle cannot be pulled over, and
must be shut off while driving, press and
hold ENGINE START/STOP for longer than
two seconds, or press twice in five seconds.
ACC/ACCESSORY (Amber Indicator Light) :
This mode allows you to use some electrical
accessories when the engine is off. With the
ignition off, pressing ENGINE START/STOP
one time without the brake pedal applied
will place the ignition system in ACC/
ACCESSORY.
The ignition will switch from ACC/
ACCESSORY to OFF after five minutes to
prevent battery rundown.
Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
194 Driving and Operating
Unnecessary Alerts
FCA may provide unnecessary alerts to
turning vehicles, vehicles in other lanes,
objects that are not vehicles, or shadows.
These alerts are normal operation and the
vehicle does not need service.
Cleaning the System
If the FCA system does not seem to operate
properly, this may correct the issue:
.Clean the outside of the windshield in
front of the rearview mirror.
.Clean the entire front of the vehicle.
.Clean the headlamps.
Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)
If equipped, the SBZA system is a
lane-changing aid that assists drivers with
avoiding crashes that occur with moving
vehicles in the side blind zone (or spot)
areas. The SBZA warning display will light
up in the corresponding outside side mirror
and will flash if the turn signal is on.
{Warning
SBZA does not alert the driver to vehicles
rapidly approaching outside of the side
blind zones, pedestrians, bicyclists,
or animals. It may not provide alerts
when changing lanes under all driving
conditions. Failure to use proper care
when changing lanes may result in injury,
death, or vehicle damage. Before making
a lane change, always check mirrors,
glance over your shoulder, and use the
turn signals.
SBZA Detection Zones
The SBZA sensor covers a zone of
approximately one lane over from both
sides of the vehicle, or 3.5 m (11 ft). The
height of the zone is approximately between
0.5 m (1.5 ft) and 2 m (6 ft) off the ground.
This zone starts at approximately the middle
of the vehicle and goes back 5 m (16 ft).
How the System Works
The SBZA symbol lights up in the side
mirrors when the system detects a moving
vehicle in the next lane over that is in the
side blind zone. This indicates it may be
unsafe to change lanes. Before making a
lane change, check the SBZA display, check
mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and use
the turn signals.
Left Side Mirror DisplayRight Side Mirror Display
When the vehicle is started, both outside
mirror SBZA displays will briefly come on to
indicate the system is operating. When the
vehicle is in a forward gear, the left- or
Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
254 Vehicle Care
1. Discharged Battery Negative GroundingPoint
2. Discharged Battery Positive Terminal
3. Good Battery Negative Terminal
4. Good Battery Positive Terminal
The jump start negative grounding point (1)
for the discharged battery is the engine
block or an engine mounting bolt. Connect
to a spot as far away from the discharged
battery as possible.
The jump start positive terminal (2) on the
discharged battery is in the engine
compartment on the driver side of the
vehicle. The jump start negative terminal (3) and
positive terminal (4) are on the battery of
the vehicle providing the jump start.
The positive jump start connection for the
discharged battery is under a trim cover.
Open the cover to expose the terminal.
1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground
system.
Caution
If the other vehicle does not have a
12-volt system with a negative ground,
both vehicles can be damaged. Only use
a vehicle that has a 12-volt system with a
negative ground for jump starting.
2. Position the two vehicles so that they are not touching.
3. Set the parking brake firmly and put the shift lever in P (Park) with an automatic
transmission, or Neutral with a manual
transmission.
Caution
If any accessories are left on or plugged
in during the jump starting procedure,
they could be damaged. The repairs
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Whenever possible, turn off or
unplug all accessories on either vehicle
when jump starting.
4. Turn the ignition off. Turn off all lights and accessories in both vehicles, except
the hazard warning flashers if needed.
{Warning
An electric fan can start up even when
the engine is not running and can injure
you. Keep hands, clothing, and tools
away from any underhood electric fan.
{Warning
Using a match near a battery can cause
battery gas to explode. People have been
hurt doing this, and some have been
blinded. Use a flashlight if you need
more light.
(Continued)
Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
Service and Maintenance 273
.Trained dealer technicians have the
diagnostic equipment to test the battery
and ensure that the connections and
cables are corrosion-free.
Belts
.Belts may need replacing if they squeak
or show signs of cracking or splitting.
.Trained dealer technicians have access to
tools and equipment to inspect the belts
and recommend adjustment or
replacement when necessary.
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to
safe driving.
.Signs of brake wear may include chirping,
grinding, or squealing noises, or difficulty
stopping.
.Trained dealer technicians have access to
tools and equipment to inspect the brakes
and recommend quality parts engineered
for the vehicle.
Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved fluids
protect the vehicle’s systems and
components. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0275 for GM approved fluids.
.Engine oil and windshield washer fluid
levels should be checked at every fuel fill.
.Instrument cluster lights may come on to
indicate that fluids may be low and need
to be filled.
Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should be
regularly inspected to ensure that there are
no cracks or leaks. With a multi-point
inspection, your dealer can inspect the hoses
and advise if replacement is needed.
Lamps
Properly working headlamps, taillamps, and
brake lamps are important to see and be
seen on the road.
.Signs that the headlamps need attention
include dimming, failure to light, cracking,
or damage. The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure that they
light when braking.
.With a multi-point inspection, your dealer
can check the lamps and note any
concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control for a
smoother ride.
.Signs of wear may include steering wheel
vibration, bounce/sway while braking,
longer stopping distance, or uneven
tire wear.
.As part of the multi-point inspection,
trained dealer technicians can visually
inspect the shocks and struts for signs of
leaking, blown seals, or damage, and can
advise when service is needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated, rotated,
and balanced. Maintaining the tires can save
money and fuel, and can reduce the risk of
tire failure.
.Signs that the tires need to be replaced
include three or more visible treadwear
indicators; cord or fabric showing through
the rubber; cracks or cuts in the tread or
sidewall; or a bulge or split in the tire.
.Trained dealer technicians can inspect and
recommend the right tires. Your dealer
can also provide tire/wheel balancing
services to ensure smooth vehicle
operation at all speeds. Your dealer sells
and services name brand tires.
Buick Encore Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14607636) -
2021 - CRC - 8/18/20
Index 305
Electrical System (cont'd)Instrument Panel Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Rear Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . 231
Emergency OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Check Light (Malfunction Indicator) . . . . . 81
Compartment Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Coolant Temperature Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Oil Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Power Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Running While Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Entry Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292
Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
Extended Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Extender, Seat Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Exterior Lighting Battery Saver . . . . . . . . . . 102F
Filter, Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248 Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Fluid Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Folding Seatback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System . . . . 192
Frequency Statement Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Front Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Front Seats Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Fuel Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Economy, Driving for Better . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Filling a Portable Fuel Container . . . . . . . 200
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197, 198
Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Fuel (cont'd)
Prohibited Fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Top Tier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Fuses Engine Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . 227
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Instrument Panel Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Rear Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . 231
G
Gas Strut(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
GaugesEngine Coolant Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Warning Lights and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . 75
General Information Service and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285