Buick Enclave: Automatic Transmission Fluid. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. Cooling System

Automatic Transmission Fluid

It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level as part of routine owner maintenance. The automatic transmission is designed so that fluid level inspection is normally handled during service by a dealer or qualified technician.

Signs that may suggest a possible transmission fluid leak include spots or fluid under the vehicle, unusual transmission operation, slipping, harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or a burning odor. If any of these conditions are noticed, the vehicle should be inspected promptly.

Change the fluid at the intervals listed in Maintenance Schedule , and be sure to use the transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .

Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission fluid may damage the vehicle, and the damages may not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use the automatic transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .

The transmission fluid will not reach the end of the dipstick unless the transmission is at operating temperature. If you need to check the transmission fluid level, please take the vehicle to your dealer.

Correct fluid type and proper fluid level are both important for transmission performance. In the Buick Enclave, the automatic transmission depends on the right fluid for lubrication, hydraulic pressure, cooling, and smooth gear changes. Guessing the fluid level or adding the wrong fluid can create expensive damage.

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the scheduled maintenance intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each 80 000 km (50,000 mile) interval. See Maintenance Schedule  for more information.

If you are driving in dusty or dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change. Dusty roads, construction areas, gravel surfaces, dry rural roads, heavy pollen, and frequent stop-and-go traffic can cause the filter to collect dirt more quickly.

See Engine Compartment Overview  for the location of the engine air cleaner/filter.

The engine air cleaner/filter is important because it helps prevent dirt, dust, leaves, sand, and other debris from entering the engine. A clean filter supports proper airflow, fuel economy, acceleration, and engine protection. A heavily restricted filter can reduce performance and may affect how the engine runs.

How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

To inspect the air cleaner/filter, remove the filter from the vehicle and lightly shake the filter away from the vehicle to release loose dust and dirt. If the filter remains covered with dirt, a new filter is required.

Do not clean the filter with compressed air, water, solvents, or brushes unless the filter type specifically allows it. Damaging the filter material can let dirt pass into the engine. If there is doubt about the condition of the filter, replacement is the safer choice.

To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter:

1. Remove the engine cover.

See Engine Cover

A. Ventilation Tube
B. Sensor

2. Disconnect the cover fitting from the ventilation tube (A).
3. Disconnect the wiring harness connector from the sensor (B).

Handle the sensor connector carefully. Pulling on the wiring or forcing the connector can damage the harness, which may cause engine performance issues or warning lights.

A. Clamp
B. Screws
C. Housing Cover
D. Filter
E. Base

4. Loosen the outlet duct clamp (A).
5. Loosen the six housing cover (C) screws (B).
6. Remove the housing cover (C) with outlet duct.
7. Remove the filter (D) and any loose debris that may be found in the base (E).
8. Inspect or replace the filter (D).
9. Reverse Steps 2 through 6 to reinstall the housing cover and reconnect the electrical connector to the sensor.
10. Reinstall the engine cover.

See Engine Cover .

Before reinstalling the housing cover, make sure the filter is seated evenly in the base and that no loose debris remains inside the housing. The cover should fit securely, and the clamp and screws should be tightened properly. An improperly installed filter or loose duct connection can allow unfiltered air into the engine.

WARNING
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if the engine backfires. Use caution when working on the engine and do not drive with the air cleaner/filter off.

Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, dirt can easily get into the engine, which could damage it.

Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you are driving.

Never operate or drive the Buick Enclave with the air cleaner/filter removed. Even a short period of operation without the filter can allow abrasive particles into the intake system and engine, causing unnecessary wear or damage.

After service, confirm that the ventilation tube, sensor connector, outlet duct, housing cover, screws, clamp, and engine cover are all properly installed. A secure installation helps maintain correct airflow and protects the engine from contamination.

Cooling System

The cooling system is designed to help the engine maintain a safe and efficient operating temperature under a wide range of driving conditions. In the Buick Enclave, this system circulates engine coolant through the engine, radiator, hoses, heater core, recovery tank, and related components so excess heat can be controlled before it causes damage.

A properly maintained cooling system is especially important during long highway drives, stop-and-go traffic, towing, hot weather, or any situation where the engine is working harder than usual. If the coolant level, coolant mixture, radiator cap, hoses, or fans are not in good condition, the engine may overheat and expensive repairs can result.

A. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank
B. Radiator Pressure Cap
C. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)

The coolant recovery tank provides a visible reference point for checking the coolant level. The radiator pressure cap helps the system hold the correct pressure, which raises the boiling point of the coolant and improves cooling performance. The engine cooling fans help move air through the radiator when natural airflow is not enough, such as when the vehicle is idling or moving slowly.

WARNING
An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

Because the electric cooling fans can operate automatically, never assume the fan area is safe simply because the ignition is off or the engine has stopped. Before working near the fan shroud, radiator, belts, hoses, or nearby wiring, allow the engine compartment to cool and keep loose clothing, jewelry, tools, and hands away from rotating parts.

WARNING
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned.

After the engine has been running, coolant hoses and metal engine components can remain extremely hot for a long time. Touching a hot radiator hose, heater hose, engine cover, metal bracket, or coolant fitting can cause burns. Always give the Buick Enclave enough time to cool down before inspecting the cooling system by hand.

Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.

Coolant leaks should never be ignored. Even a small leak from a hose connection, radiator seam, water pump area, recovery tank, or heater line can become a serious problem once the system is under pressure. If you notice a sweet odor, visible fluid under the vehicle, steam, repeated low coolant level, or an overheating message, the vehicle should be inspected before further driving.

Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® can cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant could require changing sooner, at 50 000 km (30,000 mi) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Always use DEX-COOL (silicate-free) coolant in the vehicle.

Using the correct coolant is not only a matter of freeze protection. The coolant also protects internal passages, aluminum parts, seals, the heater core, radiator, and other cooling system components from corrosion and scale buildup. Mixing incorrect coolant types or adding unknown additives can reduce protection and may shorten the life of the system.