Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
200 Driving and Operating
Caution (Continued)
.Do not tow a trailer during break-in.
SeeTrailer Towing 0249 for the
trailer towing capabilities of the
vehicle and more information.
Following break-in, engine speed and load
can be gradually increased.
On new vehicles, the various mechanical and
electrical systems experience a “break-in”
period during the first 6,400 km
(4,000 miles) of routine driving. As the
vehicle is driven, the mechanical systems
adjust to provide optimal fuel economy and
transmission shift performance.
Electrical systems will adapt and calibrate
during the break-in period. A one-time
occurrence of clicks and similar vehicle
noises is normal during this process.
Normal driving charges the vehicle’s battery
to achieve the best operation of the vehicle,
including fuel economy and the Stop/Start
System. See Stop/Start System 0202.
Ignition Positions
The vehicle has an electronic keyless ignition
with pushbutton start.
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter
must be in the vehicle for the system to
operate. If the pushbutton start is not
working, the vehicle may be near a strong
radio antenna signal causing interference to
the Keyless Access system. See Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation 07.
Stopping the Engine/Off (No Indicator
Lights)
When the vehicle is stopped, press ENGINE
START/STOP once to turn the engine off. To shift out of P (Park), the vehicle must be
on and the brake pedal must be applied.
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) 0206
If the vehicle is not in P (Park), the ignition
will return to ACC/ACCESSORY and display
the message SHIFT TO PARK in the Driver
Information Center (DIC).
When the vehicle is shifted into P (Park), the
ignition system will turn off.
The vehicle may have an electric steering
column lock. The lock is activated when the
vehicle is turned off and either front door is
opened. A sound may be heard as the lock
actuates or releases. The steering column
lock may not release with the wheels turned
off center. If this happens, the vehicle may
not start. Move the steering wheel from left
to right while attempting to start the
vehicle. If this does not work, the vehicle
needs service.
Do not turn the engine off when the vehicle
is moving. This will cause a loss of power
assist in the brake and steering systems and
disable the airbags.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
202 Driving and Operating
Gasoline Engine Starting Procedure
1. With the Keyless Access system, theRemote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter
must be in the vehicle. Press ENGINE
START/STOP with the brake pedal
applied. When the engine begins
cranking, let go of the button.
The idle speed will go down as the
engine gets warm. Do not race the
engine immediately after starting it.
If the RKE transmitter is not in the
vehicle, if there is interference, or if the
RKE battery is low, a Driver Information
Center (DIC) will display a message. See
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation 07
Caution
Cranking the engine for long periods of
time, by returning the ignition to the
START position immediately after
cranking has ended, can overheat and
damage the cranking motor, and drain
the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds
between each try, to let the cranking
motor cool down. 2. If the engine does not start after five to
10 seconds, especially in very cold
weather (below −18 °C or 0 °F), it could
be flooded with too much gasoline. Try
pushing the accelerator pedal all the way
to the floor and holding it there as you
press ENGINE START/ STOP. Wait at least
15 seconds between each try, to allow
the cranking motor to cool down. When
the engine starts, release the accelerator.
If the vehicle starts briefly but then
stops again, do the same thing. This
clears the extra gasoline from the
engine. Do not race the engine
immediately after starting it. Operate
the engine and transmission gently until
the oil warms up and lubricates all
moving parts.Stop/Start System
The Stop/Start system will shut off the
engine to help conserve fuel. It has
components designed for the increased
number of starts.
{Warning
The automatic engine Stop/Start feature
causes the engine to shut off while the
vehicle is still on. Do not exit the vehicle
before shifting to P (Park). The vehicle
may restart and move unexpectedly.
Always shift to P (Park), and then turn
the ignition off before exiting the vehicle.
Auto Engine Stop/Start
When the brakes are applied and the vehicle
is at a complete stop, the engine may turn
off. When stopped, the tachometer displays
AUTO STOP. See Tachometer096. When
the brake pedal is released or the
accelerator pedal is pressed, the engine will
restart.
To maintain vehicle performance, other
conditions may cause the engine to
automatically restart before the brake pedal
is released.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
256 Vehicle Care
General Information
For service and parts needs, visit your
dealer. You will receive genuine GM parts
and GM-trained and supported service
people.
Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:
California Perchlorate Materials
Requirements
Certain types of automotive applications,
such as airbag initiators, seat belt
pretensioners, and lithium batteries
contained in electronic keys, may contain
perchlorate materials. Perchlorate Material–
special handling may apply. See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/
perchlorate.
Accessories and Modifications
Adding non-dealer accessories or making
modifications to the vehicle can affect
vehicle performance and safety, including
such things as airbags, braking, stability,
ride and handling, emissions systems,
aerodynamics, durability, and electronic
systems like antilock brakes, traction control,
and stability control. These accessories or
modifications could even cause malfunction
or damage not covered by the vehicle
warranty. Damage to suspension components caused
by modifying vehicle height outside of
factory settings will not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Damage to vehicle components resulting
from modifications or the installation or use
of non-GM certified parts, including control
module or software modifications, is not
covered under the terms of the vehicle
warranty and may affect remaining
warranty coverage for affected parts.
GM Accessories are designed to complement
and function with other systems on the
vehicle. See your dealer to accessorize the
vehicle using genuine GM Accessories
installed by a dealer technician.
Also, see
Adding Equipment to the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle 061.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
Vehicle Care 275
Glass Mat (AGM) 12-volt battery. Installation
of a standard 12-volt battery will result in
reduced 12-volt battery life.
When using a 12-volt battery charger on the
12-volt AGM battery, some chargers have an
AGM battery setting on the charger.
If available, use the AGM setting on the
charger to limit charge voltage to 14.8 volts.
{Warning
WARNING:Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories can expose you to
chemicals including lead and lead
compounds, which are known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling. For more
information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
See the warning on the back cover.
Vehicle Storage
{Warning
Batteries have acid that can burn you and
gas that can explode. You can be badly
hurt if you are not careful. See Jump
Starting - North America 0314 for tips on
working around a battery without
getting hurt.
Infrequent Usage: Remove the black,
negative (−) cable from the battery to keep
the battery from running down.
Extended Storage: Remove the black,
negative (−) cable from the battery or use a
battery trickle charger.
Negative Battery Cable Disconnection
{Warning
Before disconnecting the negative battery
cable, turn off all features, turn the
ignition off, and remove the key,
if equipped, from the vehicle. If this is
not done, you or others could be injured,
and the vehicle could be damaged.
Caution
If the battery is disconnected with the
ignition on or the vehicle in Retained
Accessory Power (RAP), the OnStar
back-up battery will be permanently
discharged and will need to be replaced.
1. Make sure the lamps, features, and accessories are turned off.
2. Turn the ignition off and remove the key, if equipped.
3. Loosen the negative battery cable nut (1).
4. Remove the negative battery cable (2)from the battery.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
Vehicle Care 323
Caution
To avoid surface damage on wheels and
wheel trim, do not use strong soaps,
chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners,
or brushes. Use only GM approved
cleaners. Do not drive the vehicle through
an automatic car wash that uses silicon
carbide tire/wheel cleaning brushes.
Damage could occur and the repairs
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for
proper attachment, connections, binding,
leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake
pads for wear and rotors for surface
condition. Inspect drum brake linings/shoes
for wear or cracks. Inspect all other brake
parts.
Steering, Suspension, and Chassis
Components
Visually inspect steering, suspension, and
chassis components for damaged, loose,
or missing parts or signs of wear at least
once a year.Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint boots
and axle seals for leaks.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood hinges,
liftgate hinges, and steel fuel door hinges,
unless the components are plastic. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean
cloth will make them last longer, seal better,
and not stick or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, spring and fall, use
plain water to flush any corrosive materials
from the underbody. Take care to
thoroughly clean any areas where mud and
other debris can collect.
Do not directly power wash the transfer
case and/or front/rear axle output seals.
High pressure water can overcome the seals
and contaminate the fluid. Contaminated
fluid will decrease the life of the transfer
case and/or axles and should be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet
metal repair or replacement, make sure the
body repair shop applies anti-corrosion
material to parts repaired or replaced to
restore corrosion protection.
Original manufacturer replacement parts will
provide the corrosion protection while
maintaining the vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and scratches
with touch-up materials available from your
dealer to avoid corrosion. Larger areas of
finish damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack
painted vehicle surfaces causing blotchy,
ring-shaped discolorations, and small,
irregular dark spots etched into the paint
surface. See
“Finish Care” previously in this
section.
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions, regularly
clean the vehicle's interior. Before using
cleaners, read and follow all safety
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
OnStar 357
Or
.Give OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation voice
commands.
.Obtain and customize the Wi-Fi hotspot
name or SSID and password, if equipped.
Press
Qto connect to an Advisor to:
.Verify account information or update
contact information.
.Get driving directions.
.Receive a Diagnostic check of the vehicle's
key operating systems.
.Receive Roadside Assistance.
.Manage Wi-Fi Settings, if equipped.
Press
>to get a priority connection to an
OnStar Advisor available 24/7 to:
.Get help for an emergency.
.Be a Good Samaritan or respond to an
AMBER Alert.
.Get assistance in severe weather or other
crisis situations and find evacuation
routes.
OnStar Services
Emergency
Emergency Services require an active safety
and security plan. With Automatic Crash
Response, built-in sensors can automatically
alert a specially trained OnStar Advisor who
is immediately connected in to the vehicle
to help.
Press
>for a priority connection to an
OnStar Advisor who can contact emergency
service providers, direct them to your exact
location, and relay important information.
With OnStar Crisis Assist, specially trained
Advisors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days
a week, to provide a central point of
contact, assistance, and information during a
crisis.
With Roadside Assistance, Advisors can
locate a nearby service provider to help with
a flat tire, a battery jump, or an empty
gas tank.
Security
If equipped, OnStar provides these services:
.With Stolen Vehicle Assistance, OnStar
Advisors can use GPS to pinpoint the
vehicle and help authorities quickly
recover it.
.With Remote Ignition Block, if equipped,
OnStar can block the engine from being
restarted.
.With Stolen Vehicle Slowdown,
if equipped, OnStar can work with law
enforcement to gradually slow the
vehicle down.
Theft Alarm Notification
If equipped, if the doors are locked and the
vehicle alarm sounds, a notification by text,
e-mail, or phone call will be sent. If the
vehicle is stolen, an OnStar Advisor can work
with authorities to recover the vehicle.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
Connected Services 363
Remote Services
Contact an OnStar Advisor to unlock the
doors or sound the horn and flash the
lamps.
Marketplace
OnStar Advisors can provide offers from
restaurants and retailers on your route, help
locate hotels, or book a room. These services
vary by market.
Diagnostics
By monitoring and reporting on the vehicle’s
key systems, OnStar Advanced Diagnostics,
if equipped, provides a way to keep up on
maintenance. Capabilities vary by model.
See www.onstar.com for details and system
limitations. Features are subject to change.
For updates on feature capabilities, see
my.buick.com. Message and data rates may
apply.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
15481080) - 2022 - CRC - 6/1/21
Index 369
IndicatorPedestrian Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Vehicle Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Infants and Young Children, Restraints . . . . 63
Information Publication Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 355
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Instrument Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Interior Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1, 130
J
Jack
Auxiliary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Jump Starting - North America . . . . . . . . . . . .314
K
Keyless Entry Remote (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
L
Labeling, Tire Sidewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293
Lamps Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Lamps (cont'd)
Exterior Lighting Battery Saver . . . . . . . . 129
Headlamps and Sidemarker . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Malfunction Indicator (Check
Engine) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Lane Change Alert (LCA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Lane Keep Assist (LKA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .241
Lane Keep Assist Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
LATCH System Replacing Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . 74
LATCH, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
LED Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Lighting
Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Lights Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Antilock Brake System (ABS)Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Brake System Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Lights (cont'd)
Check Engine (Malfunction
Indicator) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Front Fog Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Lane Keep Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Low Fuel Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Seat Belt Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Service Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . 102
StabiliTrak OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Traction Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Locks Automatic Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Lockout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Power Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18