Driving on Grades

Notice: Do not tow on steep continuous grades exceeding 6 miles (9.6 km). Extended, higher than normal engine and transmission temperatures may result and damage the vehicle. Frequent stops are very important to allow the engine and transmission to cool.

Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before starting down a long or steep downgrade. If the transmission is not shifted down, the brakes might have to be used so much that they would get hot and no longer work well.

On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce the vehicle’s speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce the possibility of the engine and the transmission overheating. If the engine does overheat, see Engine Overheating.

    See also:

    Tire Terminology and Definitions
    Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in kPa (kilopascal) or psi (pounds per square inch). Accessory Weight: The ...

    Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
    This emergency operating mode allows the vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat protection mode which alternate ...

    Roadside Assistance Program
    U.S.: 1-800-252-1112 TTY Users (U.S.): 1-888-889-2438 Canada: 1-800-268-6800 Mexico: 01-800-466-0818 As the owner of a new Buick, you are automatically enrolled in the Roadside Assistance prog ...