Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
16897608) - 2024 - CRC - 1/23/23
230 Vehicle Care
Warning (Continued)
including the pressure cap, is hot. Wait
for the cooling system and pressure cap
to cool.
If No Steam Is Coming from the Engine
Compartment
If an engine overheat warning is displayed
but no steam can be seen or heard, the
problem may not be too serious. Sometimes
the engine can get a little too hot when the
vehicle:
.Climbs a long hill on a hot day
.Stops after high-speed driving
If the overheat warning is displayed with no
sign of steam: 1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan
speed. Open the windows as necessary.
3. When it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral), and
let the engine idle. If the engine coolant temperature gauge is
no longer in the overheat zone, the vehicle
can be driven. Continue to drive the vehicle
slowly for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe
vehicle distance from the vehicle in front.
If the warning does not come back on,
continue to drive normally and have the
cooling system checked for proper fill and
function.
If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and
park the vehicle right away.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine
for three minutes while parked. If the
warning is still displayed, turn off the
engine until it cools down.
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When the vehicle needs windshield washer
fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer's
instructions before use. If operating the
vehicle in an area where the temperature
may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has
sufficient protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the washer symbol on it.
Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See
Engine Compartment Overview
0218 for
reservoir location.
Caution
.Do not use washer fluid that contains
any type of water repellent coating.
This can cause the wiper blades to
chatter or skip, and may also clog the
washer nozzle.
.Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze)
in the windshield washer. It can
damage the windshield washer system
and paint.
.Do not mix water with ready-to-use
washer fluid. Water can cause the
solution to freeze and damage the
washer fluid tank and other parts of
the washer system.
(Continued)
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 231
Caution (Continued)
.When using concentrated washer fluid,
follow the manufacturer instructions
for adding water.
.Fill the washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is very cold.
This allows for fluid expansion if
freezing occurs, which could damage
the tank if it is completely full.
Brakes
Disc brake linings have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched warning
sound when the brake linings are worn and
new linings are needed. The sound can come
and go or can be heard all the time when
the vehicle is moving, except when applying
the brake pedal firmly.
{Warning
The brake wear warning sound means
that soon the brakes will not work well.
That could lead to a crash. When the
brake wear warning sound is heard, have
the vehicle serviced.
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake
linings could result in costly brake
repairs.
Some driving conditions or climates can
cause a brake squeal when the brakes are
first applied, clearing up following several
applications. This does not mean something
is wrong with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary
to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires
are rotated, inspect brake linings for wear
and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper
sequence to torque specifications. See
Capacities and Specifications 0295.
Brake pads should be replaced as complete
axle sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not
return to normal height, or if there is a
rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be
a sign that brake service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts with
new, approved replacement parts. If this is
not done, the brakes may not work
properly. The braking performance can
change in many ways if the wrong brake
parts are installed or if parts are improperly
installed.
Brake Pad Life System
When to Change Brake Pads
If equipped, this system estimates the
remaining life of the front and rear brake
pads. Brake pad life is displayed in the
Driver Information Center (DIC), along with
a percentage for each axle. The system must
be reset every time the brake pads are
changed.
When the system has determined that the
brake pads need to be replaced, a message
will display.
Brake pads should always be replaced as
complete axle sets.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 277
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory. Use a
de-icing agent only when absolutely
necessary, and have the locks greased after
using. SeeRecommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0290.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash it
often and out of direct sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based, acidic,
or abrasive cleaning agents as they can
damage the vehicle's paint, metal,
or plastic parts. If damage occurs, it
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Approved cleaning products can
be obtained from your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding correct
product usage, necessary safety
precautions, and appropriate disposal of
any vehicle care product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure washes closer
than 30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the
vehicle. Use of power washers exceeding
8 274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result in
damage or removal of paint and decals.
If using an automatic car wash, follow the
car wash instructions. The windshield wiper
and rear window wiper, if equipped, must
be off. Remove any accessories that may be
damaged or interfere with the car wash
equipment.
Rinse the vehicle well, before washing and
after, to remove all cleaning agents
completely. If they are allowed to dry on
the surface, they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or
an all-cotton towel to avoid surface
scratches and water spotting.
Cleaning Underhood Components
Caution
Do not power wash any component
under the hood that has this
e
symbol.(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
This could cause damage that would not
be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Solvents or aggressive cleaners may harm
underhood components. The usages of these
chemicals should be avoided.
Recommend water only.
A pressure washer may be used, but care
must be utilized. The following criteria must
be followed:
.Water pressure must be kept below
14 000 KPa (2,000 PSI).
.Water temperature must be below 80 °C
(180 °F).
.Spray nozzle with a 40 degree wide angle
spray pattern or wider must be used.
.Nozzle must be kept at least 30 cm (1 ft)
away from all surfaces.
Finish Care
Application of aftermarket clearcoat
sealant/wax materials is not recommended.
If painted surfaces are damaged, see your
dealer to have the damage assessed and
repaired. Foreign materials such as calcium
chloride and other salts, ice melting agents,
road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings,
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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278 Vehicle Care
chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can
damage the vehicle's finish if they remain
on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as
soon as possible. If necessary, use
non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe
for painted surfaces to remove foreign
matter.
Occasional hand waxing or mild polishing
should be done to remove residue from the
paint finish. See your dealer for approved
cleaning products.
Do not apply waxes or polishes to uncoated
plastic, vinyl, rubber, decals, simulated
wood, or flat paint as damage can occur.
Caution
Machine compounding or aggressive
polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint
finish may damage it. Use only
non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are
made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish
on the vehicle.
To keep the paint finish looking new, keep
the vehicle garaged or covered whenever
possible. Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Moldings
Caution
Failure to clean and protect the bright
metal moldings can result in a hazy
white finish or pitting. This damage
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
The bright metal moldings on the vehicle
are aluminum, chrome, or stainless steel. To
prevent damage always follow these
cleaning instructions:
.Be sure the molding is cool to the touch
before applying any cleaning solution.
.Use only approved cleaning solutions for
aluminum, chrome, or stainless steel.
Some cleaners are highly acidic or contain
alkaline substances and can damage the
moldings.
.Always dilute a concentrated cleaner
according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.
.Do not use cleaners that are not intended
for automotive use.
.Use a nonabrasive wax on the vehicle
after washing to protect and extend the
molding finish.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses,
Emblems, Decals, and Stripes
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft
cloth, and a car washing soap to clean
exterior lamps, lenses, emblems, decals, and
stripes. Follow instructions under "Washing
the Vehicle" previously in this section.
Lamp covers are made of plastic, and some
have a UV protective coating. Do not clean
or wipe them when dry.
Do not use any of the following on lamp
covers:
.Abrasive or caustic agents.
.Washer fluids and other cleaning agents
in higher concentrations than suggested
by the manufacturer.
.Solvents, alcohols, fuels, or other harsh
cleaners.
.Ice scrapers or other hard items.
.Aftermarket appearance caps or covers
while the lamps are illuminated, due to
excessive heat generated.
Caution
Failure to clean lamps properly can cause
damage to the lamp cover that would
not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 279
Caution
Using wax on low gloss black finish
stripes can increase the gloss level and
create a non-uniform finish. Clean low
gloss stripes with soap and water only.
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intakes, between
the hood and windshield, when washing the
vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter system
designed to help improve fuel economy.
Keep the shutter system clear of debris,snow and ice. If the check engine light is
activated, please check to see if the shutter
system is clear of debris, snow or ice.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield with
glass cleaner.
Clean rubber blades using a lint-free cloth or
paper towel soaked with windshield washer
fluid or a mild detergent. Wash the
windshield thoroughly when cleaning the
blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup
of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause
wiper streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or
damaged. Damage can be caused by
extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat,
sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant on
weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal
better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate
weatherstrips at least once a year. Hot, dry
climates may require more frequent
application. Black marks from rubber
material on painted surfaces can be removed
by rubbing with a clean cloth. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
0290.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean
the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire dressing
products on the vehicle may damage the
paint finish and/or tires. When applying a
tire dressing, always wipe off any
overspray from all painted surfaces on
the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and
water to clean the wheels. After rinsing
thoroughly with clean water, dry with a
soft, clean towel. A wax may then be
applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome wheel trim
may be damaged if the vehicle is not
washed after driving on roads that have
been sprayed with magnesium chloride or
calcium chloride. These are used on roads
for conditions such as dust and ice.
Always wash the chrome with soap and
water after exposure.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Service and Maintenance 289
Systems, Fluids, and Visible Leak
Inspection
.Engine oil
.Transmission
.Drive axle
.Transfer case
.Engine cooling system
.Power steering, if equipped
.Fuel system
.Windshield washer fluid
Tire Inspection
.Tire pressure, tread depth, and wear
.Rotation, if applicable
.Alignment check, optional
.Reset tire pressure monitor
.Check tire sealant expiration date,
if equipped
.Check spare tire, if equipped
Brakes
.Check brake system
Visible and Functional Inspections
.Seat belt components
.Exhaust system
.Accelerator pedal
.Passenger compartment air filter,
if equipped
.Engine air filter
.Hoses
.Belts
.Shocks and struts
.Steering components
.Axle boots or driveshaft and u-joints
.Compartment lift struts, if equipped
.Floor mats secured, no interference with
pedals
.Horn
.Ignition lock, if equipped
.Starter switch
.Evaporative control system
Lubricate
.Chassis components
Special Application Services
.Severe Commercial Use Vehicles Only:
Lubricate chassis components every oil
change.
.Have underbody flushing service
performed. See "Underbody Maintenance"
in Exterior Care 0277.
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290 Service and Maintenance
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name or specification, including fluids or lubricants not listed here, can be obtained from your dealer.Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Automatic Transmission - Continuously Variable Ratio (CVT) High Performance CVT Fluid. See your dealer.
Automatic Transmission (9 Speed) DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant. See Cooling
System 0226.
Engine Oil Engine oil meeting the dexos1 specification of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic is recommended. See Engine Oil0221.
Hood and Door Hinges Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube. See your dealer.
Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor, and Release Pawl Lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Hydraulic Brake System DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Rear Axle (All-Wheel Drive) See your dealer. Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.
Buick Encore GX Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
16897608) - 2024 - CRC - 1/23/23
322 Index
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 308
Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Extended Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Extender, Seat Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
ExteriorLamp Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Lighting Battery Saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
F
FilterEngine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284
Fluid Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Folding Seatback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Frequency Statement Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Front Heated Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Front Seats
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Fuel
Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Economy, Driving for Better . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Filling a Portable Fuel Container . . . . . . . 204
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Prohibited Fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Top Tier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Fuses Engine Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . 243
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242
Instrument Panel Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Rear Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . 247
G
Garage Door Opener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Gas Strut(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
Gauges
Engine Coolant Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Gauges (cont'd)
Warning Lights and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . 96
General Information Service and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301
H
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
HeadlampsAiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . 119
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Lamps On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Heated Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89