Buick Enclave: If a Tire Goes Flat. Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit. Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow out, especially when the tires are maintained properly. See Tires.
Most tire pressure loss happens gradually because of a small puncture, a leaking valve stem, bead leakage, or slow air loss over time. However, a sudden blowout can still happen, and the driver should know how the vehicle may react and how to respond safely.
If air goes out of a tire, it is much more likely to leak out slowly. But if there is ever a blowout, here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tire creates a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible.
Do not brake sharply or make sudden steering movements. A calm, steady response gives the driver a better chance to keep the vehicle under control while speed decreases.
► A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction as used in a skid. Stop pressing the accelerator pedal and steer to straighten the vehicle. It may be very bumpy and noisy. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible.
With a rear tire failure, the back of the vehicle may feel unstable or may move sideways. Keep both hands on the steering wheel, avoid sudden inputs, and allow the vehicle to slow in a controlled manner before moving to a safe location.
WARNING
Driving on a flat tire will cause permanent damage to the tire.
Re-inflating a tire after it has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat may cause a blowout and a serious crash.
Never attempt to re-inflate a tire that has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat.
Have your dealer or an authorized tire service center repair or replace the flat tire as soon as possible.
A tire that has been driven while flat can have hidden internal damage, even if the outside does not look severely damaged. The sidewall may be weakened, the internal cords may be broken, and the tire may no longer be safe to inflate or repair.
For the Buick Enclave, continuing to drive on a flat tire can also damage the wheel, tire pressure monitor sensor, suspension parts, and nearby body components. Stop as soon as it is safe to do so and avoid driving farther than necessary.
WARNING
Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, it is designed only for changing a flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you or others could be badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, only use it for changing a flat tire.
A vehicle jack is intended only to raise the vehicle enough to change a tire. It is not designed to support the vehicle for inspections, repairs, or work underneath the vehicle. Never place any part of your body under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place, well off the road, if possible. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers.
Choose a location that is flat, firm, and away from traffic. Avoid soft shoulders, slopes, curves, bridges, or areas where other drivers may not be able to see the vehicle clearly. If a safe place is not available, it may be better to call for roadside assistance.
WARNING
Changing a tire can be dangerous. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over or fall causing injury or death.
Find a level place to change the tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:
1. Set the parking brake firmly.
2. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in 1 (First) or R (Reverse).
3. Turn off the engine and do not restart while the vehicle is raised.
4. Do not allow passengers to remain in the vehicle.
5. Place wheel blocks on both sides of the tire at the opposite corner of the tire being changed.
These steps help keep the vehicle stable before any tire service begins. Passengers should move to a safe area away from traffic. The parking brake, transmission position, engine shutdown, and wheel blocks all work together to reduce the chance of the vehicle moving unexpectedly.
This vehicle may come with a jack and spare tire or a tire sealant and compressor kit. To use the jacking equipment to change a spare tire safely, follow the instructions below. Then see Tire Changing. To use the tire sealant and compressor kit, see Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit.
The equipment provided can vary by vehicle. Some vehicles are equipped for spare tire installation, while others may use a sealant and compressor kit for certain types of tread punctures. Before using either method, read the instructions carefully and confirm that the tire damage is suitable for the available repair method.
When the vehicle has a flat tire (B), use the following example as a guide to assist you in the placement of wheel blocks (A).
A. Wheel Block
B. Flat Tire
Wheel blocks should be placed at the tire diagonally opposite the flat tire. This helps reduce the chance of movement while the vehicle is being prepared for tire service.
The following information explains how to repair or change a tire. Follow the correct procedure for the equipment supplied with the Buick Enclave, and do not attempt a repair if the location, weather, traffic, ground surface, or tire condition makes the situation unsafe.
Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
WARNING
Idling a vehicle in an enclosed area with poor ventilation is dangerous. Engine exhaust may enter the vehicle. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO), which cannot be seen or smelled.
It can cause unconsciousness and even death. Never run the engine in an enclosed area that has no fresh air ventilation.
For more information, see Engine Exhaust.
When using the tire sealant and compressor kit, always make sure the vehicle is in an open, well-ventilated area. Running the engine in a garage, enclosed parking area, or any space with poor airflow can allow carbon monoxide to collect quickly. This gas is extremely dangerous because it has no visible warning signs and cannot be detected by smell.
WARNING
Overinflating a tire could cause the tire to rupture and you or others could be injured.
Be sure to read and follow the tire sealant and compressor kit instructions and inflate the tire to its recommended pressure.
Do not exceed the recommended pressure.
Use the pressure gauge carefully and monitor the tire while inflating. Too much pressure can place excessive stress on the tire structure, especially if the tire has already been punctured or weakened. Inflate only to the recommended pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label for the Buick Enclave.
WARNING
Storing the tire sealant and compressor kit or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store the tire sealant and compressor kit in its original location.
Loose tools, compressor parts, or sealant containers can become dangerous during hard braking, a sudden turn, or a collision. After using or inspecting the kit, place every component back into its proper storage area and make sure it is secured correctly.
If this vehicle has a tire sealant and compressor kit, there may not be a spare tire and tire changing equipment, and on some vehicles there may not be a place to store a tire.
The tire sealant and compressor kit is intended as a temporary roadside aid. It can help seal certain small tread punctures and inflate the tire enough to allow the vehicle to be driven carefully to a repair location. It is not a permanent tire repair and should not be treated as a replacement for professional tire service.
The tire sealant and compressor can be used to temporarily seal punctures up to 6 mm (¼ in) in the tread area of the tire. It can also be used to inflate an underinflated tire.
If the tire has been separated from the wheel, has damaged sidewalls, or has a large puncture, the tire is too severely damaged for the tire sealant and compressor kit to be effective. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico).
Do not use the kit on sidewall damage, large cuts, severe tread separation, bead damage, or a tire that has been driven while flat for an extended distance. In those cases, the tire may have internal damage that the sealant cannot correct. The safest action is to request roadside assistance or have the tire replaced by an authorized service center.
Read and follow all of the tire sealant and compressor kit instructions.
The kit includes:
A. Selector Switch (Sealant/Air or Air Only)
B. On/Off Button
C. Pressure Gauge
D. Pressure Deflation Button (If equipped)
E. Tire Sealant Canister
F. Sealant/Air Hose (Clear)
G. Air Only Hose (Black)
H. Power Plug
Each part of the kit has a specific function. The selector switch controls whether the kit delivers sealant with air or air only. The pressure gauge helps monitor inflation, while the hoses and power plug allow the compressor to operate from the vehicle’s electrical system. Before starting, identify all parts so the procedure can be followed without confusion.
Tire Sealant
Read and follow the safe handling instructions on the label adhered to the sealant canister.
Check the tire sealant expiration date on the sealant canister.
The sealant canister should be replaced before its expiration date.
Replacement sealant canisters are available at your local dealer.
See “Removal and Installation of the Sealant Canister” following.
There is only enough sealant to seal one tire. After usage, the sealant canister and sealant/air hose assembly must be replaced.
See “Removal and Installation of the Sealant Canister” following.
Tire sealant has a limited shelf life and must be in good condition to work properly. Old or expired sealant may not flow correctly, may not seal the puncture, or may leave the driver without an effective temporary repair when it is needed most. After the sealant has been used once, the canister and related hose assembly should be replaced so the kit is ready for future emergencies.
For the Buick Enclave, using the correct replacement sealant is also important because the wrong sealant can affect the tire pressure monitoring sensor inside the wheel. Always use the approved material specified for the vehicle.
Using the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit to Temporarily Seal and Inflate a Punctured Tire
Follow the directions closely for correct sealant usage.
When using the tire sealant and compressor kit during cold temperatures, warm the kit in a heated environment for five minutes.
This will help to inflate the tire faster.
Cold sealant can become thicker and may move more slowly through the hose and valve stem. Warming the kit before use helps the sealant flow more easily and allows the compressor to work more efficiently during inflation.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers.
Choose a safe location away from traffic whenever possible. The surface should be firm and level so the vehicle remains stable while the kit is being prepared. Avoid stopping on a narrow shoulder, hill, curve, or soft ground if a safer location is available nearby.
See If a Tire Goes Flat for other important safety warnings.
Do not remove any objects that have penetrated the tire.
If a nail, screw, or similar object remains in the tread, leaving it in place may help the sealant close around the puncture. Removing the object can make the leak larger and may reduce the chance that the sealant will work properly.
1. Remove the tire sealant and compressor kit from its storage location. See Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit.
2. Unwrap the sealant/air hose (F) and the power plug (H).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
Position the kit close enough for the hose to reach the tire valve without stretching or pulling. Keep the compressor upright and stable while it operates. Make sure the hose is not kinked, twisted, or routed where it can be pinched. Taking a moment to set up the kit correctly helps the Buick Enclave tire sealant and compressor system work more safely and effectively.
Make sure the tire valve stem is positioned close to the ground so the hose will reach it easily. Before attaching the hose, confirm that the vehicle is parked safely, the hazard warning flashers are on, and the kit is placed on a stable surface where it will not tip over during operation.
4. Remove the valve stem cap from the flat tire by turning it counterclockwise.
Place the cap somewhere clean and easy to find. Keeping the valve cap free of dirt is important because it helps protect the valve stem from moisture, dust, and small debris after the tire has been inflated.
5. Attach the sealant/air hose (F) onto the tire valve stem. Turn it clockwise until it is tight.
The hose must be connected securely so the sealant and air can enter the tire without leaking around the valve. Do not cross-thread the hose or force it if it does not start smoothly.
6. Plug the power plug (H) into the accessory power outlet in the vehicle. Unplug all items from other accessory power outlets.
See Power Outlets.
If the vehicle has an accessory power outlet, do not use the cigarette lighter.
If the vehicle only has a cigarette lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug cord in the door or window.
Make sure the cord is routed safely so it does not interfere with the door, pedals, passengers, or moving parts. A pinched cord can damage the compressor, reduce power supply, or create an electrical concern during use.
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle must be running while using the air compressor.
Operate the compressor only in a safe, well-ventilated location. The engine may need to run to provide enough electrical power for the compressor, but the Buick Enclave should never be left idling in an enclosed area without fresh air ventilation.
8. Turn the selector switch (A) counterclockwise to the Sealant + Air position.
This setting allows the kit to inject both sealant and air into the punctured tire. Make sure the switch is in the correct position before turning the compressor on.
9. Press the on/off button (B) to turn the tire sealant and compressor kit on.
The compressor will inject sealant and air into the tire.
The pressure gauge (C) will initially show a high pressure while the compressor pushes the sealant into the tire. Once the sealant is completely dispersed into the tire, the pressure will quickly drop and then begin to rise again as the tire inflates with air only.
This pressure change is normal during the sealing process. Do not assume the tire is fully inflated based on the first high reading. The sealant must pass through the hose and valve stem before the gauge begins to show the actual tire inflation process more accurately.
10. Inflate the tire to the recommended inflation pressure using the pressure gauge (C). The recommended inflation pressure can be found on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure.
The pressure gauge (C) may read higher than the actual tire pressure while the compressor is on. Turn the compressor off to get an accurate pressure reading. The compressor may be turned on and off until the correct pressure is reached.
Inflate the tire carefully and do not exceed the recommended pressure. Correct inflation is important because the temporarily sealed tire must still support the vehicle safely while it is driven to a repair location.
Notice: If the recommended pressure cannot be reached after approximately 25 minutes, the vehicle should not be driven farther. The tire is too severely damaged and the tire sealant and compressor kit cannot inflate the tire. Remove the power plug from the accessory power outlet and unscrew the inflating hose from the tire valve. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S.
and Canada) or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico).
If the compressor cannot bring the tire up to the required pressure, the puncture may be too large, the sidewall may be damaged, the tire may have separated from the wheel, or the tire may have internal damage from being driven while flat. In this condition, the Buick Enclave should not be driven on that tire.
11. Press the on/off button (B) to turn the tire sealant and compressor kit off.
The tire is not sealed and will continue to leak air until the vehicle is driven and the sealant is distributed in the tire; therefore, Steps 12 through 18 must be done immediately after Step 11.
Be careful while handling the tire sealant and compressor kit, as it could be warm after usage.
The compressor, hose, and fittings may become hot during operation. Handle the kit by the appropriate parts and avoid touching hot areas for longer than necessary.
12. Unplug the power plug (H) from the accessory power outlet in the vehicle.
13. Turn the sealant/air hose (F) counterclockwise to remove it from the tire valve stem.
Remove the hose slowly and keep it pointed away from your face and clothing. A small amount of sealant or air may escape when the hose is disconnected.
14. Replace the tire valve stem cap.
15. Replace the sealant/air hose (F), and the power plug (H) back in their original location.
Keeping the hose and power plug stored correctly helps prevent damage to the kit and keeps the equipment ready for the next roadside emergency.
16. If the flat tire was able to inflate to the recommended inflation pressure, remove the maximum speed label from the sealant canister (E) and place it in a highly visible location.
Do not exceed the speed on this label until the damaged tire is repaired or replaced.
The speed label is a reminder that the tire has only been temporarily sealed. The repaired condition is not the same as a normal, undamaged tire, and the vehicle should be driven cautiously until professional service is completed.
17. Return the equipment to its original storage location in the vehicle.
18. Immediately drive the vehicle 8 km (5 mi) to distribute the sealant in the tire.
Driving this short distance helps spread the sealant around the inside of the tire so it can reach and seal the puncture area. Drive smoothly, avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking, and remain alert for vibration, pulling, warning lights, or loss of pressure.
19. Stop at a safe location and check the tire pressure.
Refer to Steps 1 through 11 under “Using the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit without Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not Punctured).” If the tire pressure has fallen more than 68 kPa (10 psi) below the recommended inflation pressure, stop driving the vehicle. The tire is too severely damaged and the tire sealant cannot seal the tire. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico).
If the tire pressure has not dropped more than 68 kPa (10 psi) from the recommended inflation pressure, inflate the tire to the recommended inflation pressure.
This pressure check is important because it confirms whether the sealant has slowed or stopped the air loss. If the pressure drops too much after the short drive, the temporary repair has not worked well enough for continued driving.
20. Wipe off any sealant from the wheel, tire, and vehicle.
Sealant residue should be cleaned carefully so it does not remain on painted surfaces, wheels, tire sidewalls, or nearby trim. Cleaning the area also helps the service technician inspect the tire and wheel more clearly.
21. Dispose of the used sealant canister (E) and sealant/air hose (F) assembly at a local dealer or in accordance with local state codes and practices.
22. Replace it with a new canister available from your dealer.
A used sealant canister contains only enough material for one temporary repair. After it has been used, the canister and related hose assembly should be replaced so the kit remains complete and ready for future use.
23. After temporarily sealing a tire using the tire sealant and compressor kit, take the vehicle to an authorized dealer within 161 km (100 mi) of driving to have the tire repaired or replaced.
The tire sealant and compressor kit is only a temporary solution. For the Buick Enclave, the damaged tire should be inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible to determine whether it can be properly repaired or must be replaced. The technician should also inspect the wheel, valve stem, and TPMS sensor for sealant contamination or damage.
Using the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit without Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not Punctured)
To use the air compressor to inflate a tire with air only and not sealant, follow the procedure carefully. This mode is intended for a tire that is low on air but does not have a puncture that requires sealant. It can also be useful when adjusting tire pressure after a temperature change or when a tire is below the recommended cold inflation pressure.
On the Buick Enclave, correct tire pressure helps maintain stable handling, proper braking response, even tread wear, comfortable ride quality, and accurate Tire Pressure Monitor System operation. Always use the recommended pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label rather than guessing or relying only on the maximum pressure molded into the tire sidewall.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers.
Before using the compressor, choose a safe location away from traffic if possible. The vehicle should be on a firm, level surface so you can work around the tire safely and keep the compressor kit stable while it is operating.
See If a Tire Goes Flat for other important safety warnings.
1. Remove the tire sealant and compressor kit from its storage location. See Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit.
2. Unwrap the air only hose (G) and the power plug (H).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
Set the kit close enough to the tire so the air only hose can reach the valve stem without stretching. Keep the compressor upright and avoid placing it in water, mud, loose gravel, or any position where it could move during operation.
Make sure the tire valve stem is positioned close to the ground so the hose will reach it.
If the valve stem is positioned too high or turned away from the kit, move the vehicle slightly only if it is safe to do so. The hose should connect naturally without being pulled tight or kinked.
4. Remove the tire valve stem cap from the flat tire by turning it counterclockwise.
Place the valve cap in a clean location so it is not lost. The cap helps protect the valve stem from dirt, moisture, and corrosion after inflation is complete.
5. Attach the air only hose (G) onto the tire valve stem by turning it clockwise until it is tight.
The hose must be attached securely to prevent air from leaking while the compressor is running. Do not cross-thread the fitting, and do not use excessive force. A proper connection should feel snug and even.
6. Plug the power plug (H) into the accessory power outlet in the vehicle. Unplug all items from other accessory power outlets. See Power Outlets.
If the vehicle has an accessory power outlet, do not use the cigarette lighter.
If the vehicle only has a cigarette lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug cord in the door or window.
Make sure the cord is routed safely and is not trapped under a door, window, seat track, or trim panel. A damaged cord may prevent the compressor from operating correctly and could create an electrical concern.
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle must be running while using the air compressor.
Use the compressor only in a well-ventilated area. Do not run the engine in a closed garage or enclosed space, because exhaust gases can be dangerous. The engine should remain running only as needed to provide power to the compressor.
8. Turn the selector switch (A) clockwise to the Air Only position.
This setting allows the compressor to add air without injecting sealant into the tire. Confirm that the selector is in the correct position before turning the compressor on.
9. Press the on/off (B) button to turn the compressor on.
The compressor will inflate the tire with air only.
During operation, listen for abnormal noises and watch the hose connection. If the hose comes loose, air leaks heavily, or the compressor appears unstable, turn the kit off and correct the issue before continuing.
10. Inflate the tire to the recommended inflation pressure using the pressure gauge (C). The recommended inflation pressure can be found on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure.
The pressure gauge (C) may read higher than the actual tire pressure while the compressor is on. Turn the compressor off to get an accurate reading.
The compressor may be turned on/off until the correct pressure is reached.
Inflate gradually and check the reading carefully. Overinflation can affect ride comfort, tire wear, and road impact resistance, while underinflation can cause heat buildup, poor handling, and reduced tire life.
If you inflate the tire higher than the recommended pressure, you can adjust the excess pressure by pressing the pressure deflation button (D), if equipped, until the proper pressure reading is reached. This option is only functional when using the air only hose (G).
If the kit does not have a pressure deflation button, release air carefully through the valve stem and then recheck the pressure with the gauge. Always finish by confirming that the tire is at the correct pressure before driving.
11. Press the on/off button (B) to turn the tire sealant and compressor kit off.
Be careful while handling the tire sealant and compressor kit, as it could be warm after usage.
The compressor, hose, and fittings may heat up during operation. Allow the parts to cool if necessary before packing them away, and avoid touching hot areas for longer than needed.
12. Unplug the power plug (H) from the accessory power outlet in the vehicle.
13. Disconnect the air only hose (G) from the tire valve stem by turning it counterclockwise, and replace the tire valve stem cap.
When removing the hose, a small amount of air may escape. Remove it smoothly, then reinstall the valve cap securely to help keep dirt and moisture out of the valve stem.
14. Replace the air only hose (G) and the power plug (H) and cord back in their original locations.
15. Place the equipment in the original storage location in the vehicle.
Proper storage is important because loose equipment can be damaged or become a hazard during sudden stops. Keeping the kit organized also makes it easier to use the next time tire inflation is needed.
The tire sealant and compressor kit has an accessory adapter located in a compartment on the bottom of its housing that may be used to inflate air mattresses, balls, and similar inflatable items.
This adapter is intended for light accessory inflation only. When using it, monitor pressure carefully and avoid overinflating small items. After use, return the adapter to its compartment so it is not lost and so the Buick Enclave tire sealant and compressor kit remains complete.
Removal and Installation of the Sealant Canister
To remove the sealant canister:
1. Unwrap the sealant hose.
2. Press the canister release button.
3. Pull up and remove the canister.
4. Replace with a new canister which is available from your dealer.
5. Push the new canister into place.
The sealant canister should be replaced after it has been used or when it reaches its expiration date. Expired sealant may not flow properly or seal a puncture effectively. A fresh canister helps make sure the kit is ready for an emergency.
When installing a new canister, make sure it locks securely into position and that the hose is routed correctly. A loose or improperly installed canister may leak or prevent the kit from working as intended. For the Buick Enclave, using the correct replacement canister also helps protect the tire pressure monitoring sensor from damage caused by improper sealant materials.
Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
The tire sealant and compressor kit is located in the storage compartment on the driver side, at the rear of the vehicle. This location keeps the kit out of the passenger area while still making it accessible during a roadside tire emergency.
In the Buick Enclave, the kit should always be returned to its dedicated storage tray after use. Leaving the compressor, hoses, power cord, or sealant canister loose in the cargo area can make the equipment harder to find when needed and may allow parts to move around while driving.
1. Press down on the latch tab and pull the cover off to access the storage compartment.
Use steady pressure on the latch tab rather than forcing the panel. The cover is designed to release from the storage opening, and pulling it too aggressively may damage the tabs or make the panel harder to reinstall cleanly.
2. Press the two tabs on the quick release buckle to release the tire sealant and compressor kit strap.
Hold the kit with one hand while releasing the buckle so it does not drop or shift suddenly in the compartment. The strap is there to keep the kit seated in its tray during normal driving, braking, and cargo movement.
3. Remove the sealant and compressor kit from its tray.
Lift the kit out carefully, keeping the hoses and power cord from catching on the storage trim. Before using it, check that the air hose, sealant hose, power plug, pressure gauge, and canister are present and not visibly damaged.
To store the tire sealant and compressor kit, reverse the steps.
Place the kit back into the tray in the same orientation, secure the strap with the quick release buckle, and reinstall the cover so it sits flush with the rear trim. A properly stored kit stays protected, reduces cargo-area noise, and remains ready for the next time tire inflation or temporary sealant use is needed.
After the kit has been used on a punctured tire, do not forget to replace the used sealant canister and hose assembly as required. For the Buick Enclave tire service kit to be useful in a future emergency, it should be complete, clean, secured, and stored in its original rear driver-side compartment.
