2007 GMC Sierra Classic Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ....................... 7 Front Seats .............................................. 9 Rear Seats ............................................. 19 Safety Belts ............................................ 22 Child Restraints ...................................... 44 Airbag System ........................................ 91 Restraint System Check ....................... 111 Features and Controls .............................. Keys .............
Service and Appearance Care .................. Service ................................................. Fuel ...................................................... Checking Things Under the Hood ......... Rear Axle ............................................. Four-Wheel Drive .................................. Front Axle ............................................ Noise Control System ........................... Bulb Replacement ................................ Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ........
This manual describes features that may be available in this model, but your vehicle may not be equipped with all of them. For example, more than one entertainment system may be offered or your vehicle may have been ordered without a front passenger or rear seats. Keep this manual in the vehicle, so it will be there if it is ever needed. If the vehicle is sold, leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.
How to Use This Manual Many people read the owner manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If this is done, it can help you learn about the features and controls for the vehicle. Pictures and words work together in the owner manual to explain things. Index A good place to quickly locate information about the vehicle is the Index in the back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual and the page number where it can be found.
Vehicle Damage Warnings Vehicle Symbols Also, in this manual you will find these notices: The vehicle has components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a specific component, control, message, gage, or indicator. Notice: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. A notice tells about something that can damage the vehicle.
These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle: 6
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Front Seats ..................................................... 9 Manual Seats ................................................ 9 Power Seats ............................................... 10 Power Lumbar ............................................. 11 Heated Seats .............................................. 11 Memory Seat and Mirrors ............................ 12 Reclining Seatbacks .................................... 15 Head Restraints ....................
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Airbag System .............................................. 91 Where Are the Airbags? .............................. 93 When Should an Airbag Inflate? .................. 95 What Makes an Airbag Inflate? ................... 97 How Does an Airbag Restrain? ................... 98 What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? ................................................... 98 Airbag Off Switch ...................................... 100 8 Passenger Sensing System ....
Front Seats Manual Seats {CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving. If your vehicle has a manual bucket or a split bench seat, you can adjust the seat forward or rearward with the bar located under the front of the seat cushion. Lift the bar to unlock the seat.
Power Seats • Raise or lower the rear part of the seat cushion by moving the rear of the horizontal control up or down. • Raise or lower the entire seat by moving the entire horizontal control up or down. If your vehicle has power reclining seatbacks, the control is located rear of the power seat control on the outboard side of the seats. See “Power Reclining Seatbacks” under Reclining Seatbacks on page 15.
Power Lumbar Heated Seats Your vehicle may have this feature. The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. To increase or decrease support, hold the control forward or rearward. Keep in mind that as your seating position changes, as it may during long trips, so should the position of your lumbar support. Adjust the seat as needed. If your vehicle has this feature, the buttons are located on the front doors. The engine must be running for the heated seats to work.
To heat only the seatback, press the vertical button with the heated seatback symbol. An indicator light on the seatback button will come on to designate that only the seatback is being heated. Additional presses of the seatback button will cycle through the heat levels for the seatback only. Press the horizontal button again to heat the whole seat. Memory Seat and Mirrors If your vehicle has this feature, the controls for the memory function are located on the driver’s door.
To store the memory settings, do the following: 1. If you have an automatic transmission, place the vehicle in PARK (P). If you have a manual transmission, set the parking brake. 2. Adjust the driver’s seat, including the seatback recliner and lumbar, and both outside mirrors to your preference. 3. Press and hold the 1 or 2 button of the memory control for three seconds. A double chime will sound to let you know that the position has been stored.
Easy Exit Seat The controls for this memory function are located on the driver’s door. B (Easy Exit Seat): This button is used to program and recall the desired driver’s seat position when exiting or entering the vehicle. The seat position can be saved for up to two drivers. To store the seat exit position, do the following: 1. If you have an automatic transmission, place the vehicle in PARK (P). If you have a manual transmission, set the parking brake. 2. Press and release the 1 or 2 button.
Reclining Seatbacks Manual Reclining Seatbacks If your seats have manual reclining seatbacks, the lever used to operate them is located on the outboard side of the seat(s). {CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.
To return the seatback to an upright position, do the following: 1. Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to the seatback and the seatback will return to the upright position. 2. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked. Power Reclining Seatbacks If your seats have power reclining seatbacks, use the vertical power seat control located on the outboard side of the seat(s). • To recline the seatback, press the control toward the rear of the vehicle.
{CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts cannot do their job when you are reclined like this. The shoulder belt cannot do its job because it will not be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash, you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt cannot do its job either. In a crash, the belt could go up over your abdomen.
Head Restraints Seatback Latches The front seatbacks fold forward to allow access to the rear of the cab. To fold the seatback forward, lift the lever located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. {CAUTION: If the seatback is not locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is locked.
Rear Seats 2. Pull the seat cushion up until it latches with the seatback. Rear Seat Operation (Extended Cab) 3. After latching the seat cushion up, pull forward on it to make sure it is locked. Folding the Rear Seat The rear seat in the extended cab can be folded up to provide more cargo space. To fold the seat up, do the following: Notice: Folding a rear seat with the safety belts still fastened may cause damage to the seat or the safety belts.
Rear Seat Operation (Crew Cab) The second row seat is a 60/40 split seat. Either side of the rear seat may be flipped and folded for added cargo space. Make sure that nothing is under or in front of the seat and that the head restraints are completely lowered. To flip and fold the seat, do the following: 1. Pull up on the strap loop at the rear of the seat cushion. Then, pull the seat cushion up and flip it forward.
To return the seat to the normal seating position, do the following: 1. Lift the seatback up and push it rearward all the way. {CAUTION: If the seatback is not locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is locked. 2. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked into place. 3. Lower the seat cushion until it latches into position.
Safety Belts {CAUTION: Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. {CAUTION: Do not let anyone ride where he or she cannot wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you are not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed.
Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. See Safety Belt Reminder Light on page 247. Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here is why: They work. You never know if you will be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you do not know if it will be a bad one.
Put someone on it. 24 Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider does not stop.
The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... or the instrument panel...
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I am wearing a safety belt? A: You could be — whether you are wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you are upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.
Q: If I am a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you are in an accident — even one that is not your fault — you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver does not protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h).
Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Do not let it get twisted. The lap-shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly. 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you would be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
Q: What is wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body. A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It will not give nearly as much protection this way.
Q: What is wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your lap belt is too loose. In a crash, you could slide under the lap belt and apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The lap belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. A: The lap belt is too loose. It will not give nearly as much protection this way.
Q: What is wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
Q: What is wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests. A: The belt is over an armrest.
Q: What is wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which are not as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen. A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
Q: What is wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you would not have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it. A: The belt is twisted across the body.
To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle. Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they do not wear safety belts.
Right Front Passenger Position Center Front Passenger Position To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt properly, see Driver Position on page 27. Lap Belt The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt — except for one thing. If you ever pull the shoulder portion of the belt out all the way, you will engage the child restraint locking feature which may turn off the passenger’s frontal airbag.
Rear Seat Passengers It is very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who are not safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.
Lap-Shoulder Belt All rear seat positions have lap-shoulder belts. Here is how to wear one properly. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Do not let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly. 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there is a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor. {CAUTION: The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.
Here is how to install a comfort guide to the shoulder belt: 1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the interior body. To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle. Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides Rear shoulder belt comfort guides may provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for some adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide positions the belt away from the neck and head. 2.
{CAUTION: A safety belt that is not properly worn may not provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. 4. Buckle, position, and release the safety belt as described in Rear Seat Passengers on page 38. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. But if a safety belt is not long enough, your dealer will order you an extender. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you.
Child Restraints Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts? Older Children A: An older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the thighs. It should never be worn over the abdomen, which could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in a crash.
Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck? A: If the child is sitting in a seat next to a window, move the child toward the center of the vehicle. Also see Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides on page 41. If the child is sitting in the center rear seat passenger position, move the child toward the safety belt buckle.
{CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs.
Infants and Young Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
{CAUTION: People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby does not weigh much — until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 lb (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240 lb (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint.
{CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts offer protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide.
Q: What are the different types of add-on child restraints? {CAUTION: A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child’s weight, height, and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used. For most basic types of child restraints, there are many different models available.
Child Restraint Systems {CAUTION: The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child’s hip bones are still so small that the vehicle’s regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that is unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries.
A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint. 52 A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields.
Q: How Should I Use a Child Restraint? A: A child restraint system is any device designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A built-in child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add-on child restraint system is a portable one, which is purchased by the vehicle’s owner. To help reduce injuries, an add-on child restraint must be secured in the vehicle. With built-in or add-on child restraints, the child has to be secured within the child restraint.
Securing an Add-on Child Restraint in the Vehicle {CAUTION: A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle. Make sure the child restraint is properly installed in the vehicle using the vehicle’s safety belt or LATCH system, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. To help reduce the chance of injury, the child restraint must be secured in the vehicle.
Where to Put the Restraint {CAUTION: A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Make sure the child is properly secured, following the instructions that came with that restraint. Because there are different systems, it is important to refer to the instructions that come with the restraint. A child can be endangered in a crash if the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.
Never put a rear facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the airbag is off. Here is why: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. Be sure the airbag is off before using a rear-facing child restraint in the right front seat position.
{CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger’s airbag if it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It is always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. Do not use child restraints in the center front seat position. The restraints will not work properly. There is limited space in the rear seating area of an extended cab model.
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) Not all vehicle seating positions or child restraints have lower anchors and attachments or top tether anchors and attachments. The LATCH system holds a child restraint during driving or in a crash. This system is designed to make installation of a child restraint easier.
Top Tether Anchor Your child restraint may have a single tether (A) or a dual tether (C). Either will have a single attachment (B) to secure the top tether to the anchor. Some child restraints that have a top tether are designed for use with or without the top tether being attached. Others require the top tether always to be attached. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached.
i (Top Tether Anchor): Lower Anchor and Top Tether Anchor Locations Seating positions with top tether anchors. i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors. Regular Cab Front Seat — Bench Regular Cab Front Seat — Bucket 60 Do not install a child restraint in the center front seat position. See Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position on page 74 for more information.
i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors. j (Lower Anchor): Seating positions with two lower anchors. Extended Cab Rear Seat i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors. For crew cab models, the rear passenger side and center seating positions have exposed metal lower anchors located in the crease between the seatback and the seat cushion.
Extended Cab Regular Cab For regular cab models with a bench seat, the top tether anchors are located under trim covers on the back panel behind the center and passenger seats. Do not install a child restraint in the center seat position. See Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position on page 74 for more information. For regular cab models with bucket seats, the top tether anchor is located under a trim covers on the back panel behind the passenger seat.
Do not secure a child restraint in the front passenger’s position if your vehicle has rear seats, if a national or local law requires that the top tether be attached, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be attached. There is no place to attach the top tether in this position. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 55 for additional information.
Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System {CAUTION: If a LATCH-type child restraint is not attached to anchors, the restraint will not be able to protect the child correctly. In a crash, the child could be seriously injured or killed. Make sure that a LATCH-type child restraint is properly installed using the anchors, or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual.
{CAUTION: Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and the safety belt continues to tighten. Secure any unused safety belts behind the child restraint so children cannot reach them. Pull the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock, if your vehicle has one, after the child restraint has been installed. Be sure to follow the instructions of the child restraint manufacturer.
If the position you are using does not have a head restraint and you are using a single tether, route the tether over the seatback. If the position you are using has an adjustable head restraint and you are using a dual tether, route the tether around the head restraint. If the position you are using does not have a head restraint and you are using a dual tether, route the tether over the seatback.
2. See Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (Regular and Extended Cab) (With Airbag Off Switch) on page 78 or Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (Regular and Extended Cab) (With Passenger Sensing System) on page 85 for instructions on installing the child restraint using the safety belts. 3. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 2.
2.2. When using a child restraint with a top tether in the rear passenger position, raise the head restraint and route the top tether through the fabric loop. Then, attach the top tether to the metal anchor point at the center rear seating position. 2.3. When using a child restraint with a top tether in the rear center position, route the top tether through the fabric loop.
Crew Cab Models 1. If the child restraint manufacturer recommends that the top tether be attached, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor, if your vehicle has one. Refer to the child restraint instructions and the following steps: 1.1. To access the top tether anchors, raise the seat cushion by pulling up on the strap loop at the rear of the seat cushion and fold the seat cushion forward. Then fold the seatback forward.
If the position you are using has an adjustable head restraint and you are using a dual tether, route the tether around the head restraint. If the position you are using has an adjustable head restraint and you are using a single tether, raise the head restraint and route the tether under the head restraint and in between the head restraint posts. 70 1.4. Remove the trim cover to expose the top tether anchor. 1.5. Attach the top tether attachment to the top tether anchor.
2. Attach and tighten the lower attachments to the lower anchors. If the child restraint does not have lower attachments or the desired seating position does not have lower anchors, secure the child restraint with the top tether and the safety belts. Refer to your child restraint manufacturer instructions and the instructions in this manual. 2.1. Find the lower anchors for the desired seating position. 2.2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 2.3.
3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 72 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.
6. If your child restraint manufacturer recommends using a top tether, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 58. 7. Push and pull the restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 5.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position {CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger’s airbag if it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It is always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. Do not use child restraints in this position.
A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child restraint. If you need to secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat position, see Where to Put the Restraint on page 55. You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 76 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.
If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. You should not be able to pull more of the belt out of the retractor once the lock has been set. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (Regular and Extended Cab) (With Airbag Off Switch) Your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag. A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child restraint. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 55. If your instrument panel has one of the switches pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has an airbag off switch that you can use to manually turn off the right front passenger’s airbag.
CAUTION: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. Do not use a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle unless the passenger’s airbag has been turned off.
Never put a rear facing child restraint in the right front passenger’s seat unless the airbag is off. Here is why: {CAUTION: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. Be sure the airbag is off before using a rear-facing child restraint in the right front seat position.
If your child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 58. If your vehicle has a rear seat, there is no top tether anchor at the right front seating position. Do not secure a child seat in this position if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be anchored.
3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
7. If your child restraint manufacturer recommends using a top tether, and the position you are using has a top tether anchor, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 58. 8. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 6.
To remove the child restraint, if the top tether is attached to the top tether anchor, disconnect it. Unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (Regular and Extended Cab) (With Passenger Sensing System) Your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag. A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child restraint. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 55. United States If your rearview mirror has one of the indicators pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has a passenger sensing system.
Your vehicle may have a label on your sun visor that says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag.
Never put a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat the unless passenger airbag status indicator shows off. Never put a rear facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the airbag is off. Here is why: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag.
If your vehicle has a rear seat, there is no top tether anchor at the right front seating position. Do not secure a child seat in this position if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be anchored. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 58 if the child restraint has a top tether. You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position.
5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
7. If your child restraint manufacturer recommends using a top tether, and the position you are using has a top tether anchor, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 58. 8. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 9.
Airbag System CAUTION: Your vehicle has an airbag for the driver and an airbag for the right front passenger. Frontal airbags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating frontal airbag. But these airbags must inflate very quickly to do their job and comply with federal regulations.
{CAUTION: {CAUTION: Airbags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you are too close to an inflating airbag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with airbags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.
There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. Where Are the Airbags? The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 247 for more information. The driver’s airbag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
{CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inflating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put anything between an occupant and an airbag, and do not attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering. The right front passenger’s airbag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.
When Should an Airbag Inflate? The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal airbags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. But they are designed to inflate only if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold. Deployment thresholds take into account a variety of desired deployment and non-deployment events and are used to predict how severe a crash is likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate and help restrain the occupants.
In any particular crash, no one can say whether an airbag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by what the vehicle hits, the angle of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows down. The airbag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage. Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain. As always, wear your safety belt.
Dual Stage Airbags If your vehicle has frontal airbags with dual stage deployment, the amount of restraint will adjust according to crash severity. Your vehicle has electronic frontal sensors which help the sensing system distinguish between a moderate and a more severe frontal impact. For moderate frontal impacts, these airbags inflate at a level less than full deployment. For more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs.
How Does an Airbag Restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. The airbag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Airbags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually.
{CAUTION: When an airbag inflates, there may be dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but cannot get out of the vehicle after an airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or a door. If you experience breathing problems following an airbag deployment, you should seek medical attention.
Airbag Off Switch If your instrument panel has one of the switches pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has an airbag off switch that you can use to manually turn off the right front passenger’s airbag. This switch should only be turned to the off position if the person in the right front passenger’s position is a member of a passenger risk group identified by the national government as follows: Infant.
Child age 1 to 12. A child age 1 to 12 must ride in the front seat because: • my vehicle has no rear seat; • although children ages 1 to 12 ride in the rear seat(s) whenever possible, children ages 1 to 12 sometimes must ride in the front because no space is available in the rear seat(s) of my vehicle; or • the child has a medical condition which, according to the child’s physician, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child’s condition.
{CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right front passenger’s airbag could inflate even though the switch is off. United States Canada To turn off the right front passenger’s airbag, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the off position. The airbag off light will come on to let you know that the right front passenger’s airbag is off.
United States United States Canada To turn the right front passenger’s airbag on again, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the on position. Passenger Sensing System If your rearview mirror has one of the indicators pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has a passenger sensing system. The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible when you turn your ignition key to RUN or START.
The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger’s frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver’s airbag is not part of the passenger sensing system. The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger’s seat and safety belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the passenger’s frontal airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or not.
Never put a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the passenger airbag status indicator shows off and the airbag is off. Here is why: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag.
• A right front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of time. • The right front passenger seat is occupied by a smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints. • Or, if there is a critical problem with the airbag system or the passenger sensing system. When the passenger sensing system has turned off the passenger’s frontal airbag, the off indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off.
If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front passenger’s seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be because that person is not sitting properly in the seat. If this happens, turn the vehicle off and ask the person to place the seatback in the fully upright position, then sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion, with the person’s legs comfortably extended. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in this position for about two minutes.
Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates. You may want to consider not using seat covers or other aftermarket equipment if your vehicle has the passenger sensing system. See Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 109 for more information about modifications that can affect how the system operates.
{CAUTION: For up to 10 seconds after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an airbag when it inflates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are probably part of the airbag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so. The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.
Q: What if I added a snow plow? Will it keep A: 110 the airbags from working properly? We have designed our airbag systems to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including snow plowing with vehicles that have the optional Snow Plow Prep Package (RPO VYU). But do not change or defeat the snow plow’s “tripping mechanism.” If you do, it can damage your snow plow and your vehicle, and it may cause an airbag inflation. Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get A: my vehicle modified.
Restraint System Check Checking the Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. See Care of Safety Belts on page 592 for more information.
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash {CAUTION: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.
Section 2 Features and Controls Keys ............................................................ 115 Remote Keyless Entry System .................. 116 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ............................................... 117 Doors and Locks ........................................ 120 Door Locks ................................................ 120 Power Door Locks ..................................... 121 Delayed Locking ........................................
Section 2 Features and Controls Mirrors ......................................................... 176 Manual Rearview Mirror ............................. 176 Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with OnStar®, Compass and Temperature Display ................................................... 176 Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass and Temperature Display ........ 180 Outside Manual Mirrors ............................. 183 Outside Trailer-Tow Mirrors .......................
Keys {CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The children or others could be badly injured or even killed. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
Your vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition, all door locks, and the spare tire hoist lock if your vehicle has one. Remote Keyless Entry System If the vehicle has a Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any RKE system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: • Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. • Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.
Q (Lock): Press this button once to lock all of the doors. Pressing lock again within three seconds may cause the horn to chirp for lock confirmation. You can choose different feedback options for each press of the lock button. See “Lock Feedback” and “Unlock Feedback” under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 282 for more information. L (Panic): Press this button to sound the horn and flash the headlamps and taillamps for up to 30 seconds.
To replace the battery in the RKE transmitter, do the following: Resynchronization Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal that has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal from the transmitter.
Doors and Locks CAUTION: Door Locks • Young children who get into unlocked {CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. • Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive.
To unlock the door from the outside, use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or the key. To unlock or lock the door from the inside, slide the manual lever forward or rearward. Power Door Locks If your vehicle has this power door lock switch, press the raised side of the switch, with the lock symbol, on either front door to lock all the doors at once. Press the recessed side of the switch with the unlock symbol, to unlock all the doors at once.
If your vehicle has this power door lock switch, press the bottom of the switch on either front door to lock all the doors at once. Press the top of the switch to unlock all the doors at once. The power door locks will operate at any time even when the ignition is off. The power door locks will also automatically lock when the vehicle is out of PARK (P), or for manual transmission, when the vehicle reaches 8 mph (24 km/h). Operating the power locks may interact with the theft-deterrent system, if equipped.
Programmable Automatic Door Locks Your vehicle may have an automatic lock/unlock feature which enables you to program your vehicle’s power door locks. You can program this feature through the Driver Information Center (DIC), or by the following method. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 282. Programmable Locking Feature Following are the two available programming options: Mode 1: All doors lock when the transmission is shifted into gear.
3. Press the door lock switch once. You will hear either one or two chimes. The number of chimes tells you which lock mode is currently selected. Continue to press the door lock switch until the number of chimes that you hear matches the number of the mode that you want. If you take longer than 30 seconds, the locks will automatically lock and unlock and the horn will chirp twice to indicate that you have left the program mode.
Mode 4: No automatic door unlock. The following instructions tell you how to change the automatic door unlock mode (automatic transmission only). Choose one of the four programming options listed above before entering the program mode. To enter the program mode, do the following: 1. Begin with the ignition off. Then pull the turn signal/multifunction lever toward you and hold it there while you perform the next step. 2. Turn the key to RUN and LOCK twice.
Rear Door Security Locks (Crew Cab) With this feature, you can lock the rear side doors so that they cannot be opened from the inside by passengers. This feature is located on the inside edge of the rear doors. 4. Close the door. 5. Do the same thing to the other rear door. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to open the rear door while the security lock is engaged, unlock the door and open the door from the outside.
To open a rear access door from the outside, first open the front door. Then, use the handle located on the front edge of the rear access door to open it. Crew Cabs If your vehicle is a crew cab, you can open your doors from the inside or outside. Your vehicle may also have a feature which prevents children from opening the rear doors. See Rear Door Security Locks (Crew Cab) on page 126 for more information.
Tailgate Removal The tailgate on your vehicle can be removed to allow for different loading situations. Although the tailgate can be removed without assistance, you may want someone to assist you with the removal to avoid possible damage to the vehicle. To remove the tailgate, do the following: 1. Raise the tailgate slightly and release both retaining cable clips. To release the retaining cable clips, lift the cable so it points straight out and push the cable clip forward. 128 2.
Windows {CAUTION: Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. Manual Windows Turn the hand crank on each door to manually raise or lower the manual windows.
Power Windows Express Down Windows The driver and front passenger windows also have an express down feature that allows the windows to be lowered without holding the switch. Press down fully on the window switch, then release, to activate the express down mode. The express down mode can be canceled at any time by pulling up on the switch. To open the window partway, press the switch to the first depression position, until the window is at the desired position.
Swing-Out Windows Your vehicle may have swing-out windows. To open a rear swing-out window, flip the latch open and swing the glass out. Sun Visors Pull the sun visor down to block glare. Swing the sun visor to the side to cover the side window. The passenger’s side sun visor may have a vanity mirror. Theft-Deterrent Systems Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.
This message reminds you to activate the theft-deterrent system. Here is how to do it: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. The security light should come on and flash. The door does not need to be open. If the delayed locking feature is active, the alarm will not be activated until all doors are closed and the security light goes off. 3. Close all doors. The security light will stop flashing and go off after approximately 30 seconds.
Testing the Alarm Passlock® The alarm can be tested by following these steps: 1. From inside the vehicle, lower the driver’s window and open the driver’s door. Your vehicle has the Passlock® theft-deterrent system. 2. Activate the system by locking the doors with the RKE transmitter. 3. Get out of the vehicle, close the door and wait for the security light to go out. 4. Then reach in through the window, unlock the door with the manual door lock and open the door. This should set off the alarm.
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle New Vehicle Break-In Notice: Your vehicle does not need an elaborate break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: • Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (805 km). • Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or slow, for the first 500 miles (805 km). Do not make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to brake, or slow, the vehicle.
Ignition Positions With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn it to four different positions. A (LOCK): This position locks your ignition when the key is removed. The steering locks when equipped with a manual transmission. It is a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. B (ACCESSORY): This position allows you to use things like the radio, power windows and the windshield wipers when the engine is off.
C (RUN): This is the position for driving. The battery could be drained if you leave the key in the ACCESSORY or RUN position with the engine off. You may not be able to start your vehicle if the battery is allowed to drain for an extended period of time. D (START): This position starts your engine. Key In the Ignition Never leave your vehicle with the keys inside, as it is an easy target for joy riders or thieves.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) If the vehicle has Retained Accessory Power (RAP), certain features will continue to operate for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to LOCK unless a door is opened. Starting the Engine Your vehicle has a Starter Motor Control. This feature assists in starting the engine and protects the electrical system. This feature may cause the engine to crank even after the ignition key is not in START. Notice: Do not try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving.
Starting Procedure 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. 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. Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking System. This feature assists in starting the engine and protects the electrical system.
When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0°F or −18°C), do this: 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START and hold it there up to 15 seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key. 2. If your engine still will not start, or starts but then stops, it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. dealer in the area where you will be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area. {CAUTION: Automatic Transmission Operation Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet.
you may notice an increase in the effort to shift out of Park. See Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission) under Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transmission) on page 170 for more information. {CAUTION: Allison Transmission® See “Range Selection Mode” later in this section. PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It is the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle cannot move easily.
{CAUTION: If you have four-wheel drive, your vehicle will be free to roll — even if your shift lever is in PARK (P) — if your transfer case is in NEUTRAL. So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear, two-wheel high (2H) or four-wheel high (4H) or four-wheel low (4L) — not in NEUTRAL. See Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transmission) on page 170. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. If your vehicle has the Allison Transmission®, the R on the shift display, may blink if the shift inhibitor is active.
DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. It provides the best fuel economy for your vehicle. If you need more power for passing, and you are: • Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. • Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. By doing this, the vehicle shifts down to the next gear and has more power.
MANUAL MODE (M): This position, is available on vehicles with the Allison Transmission®. It lets drivers select the range of gears appropriate for current driving conditions. If your vehicle has this feature, see Range Select Mode (Allison Transmission®) later in this section. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving. However, it reduces vehicle speed more than DRIVE (D) without using your brakes.
Range Selection Mode (Allison Transmission®) 2. Press the plus/minus buttons to select the desired range of gears for your current driving conditions. The Range Selection Mode allows you to control the engine and vehicle speed while driving down hill by allowing you to select a desired gear. The DIC shows the six available ranges with the highest attainable range shown in brackets. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 265 and DIC Operation and Displays on page 266 for more information.
Low Traction Mode (Allison Transmission®) Cold Weather Operation (Allison Transmission®) If your vehicle has the DURAMAX® diesel engine and the Allison Transmission®, it has a Low Traction Mode that assists in vehicle acceleration when road conditions are slippery, such as with ice or snow. While at a stop, selecting the second gear range using the Range Selection system, will allow the Allison Transmission® to limit torque to the wheels after it detects wheel slip, preventing the tires from spinning.
Tow/Haul Mode The selector button is located on the end of the shift lever. Turn the Tow/Haul on and off by pressing the button. When the Tow/Haul is on, a light on the instrument panel cluster will come on. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 264 for more information. If your vehicle has the Performance Package-Enhanced Towing, activating the manual selectable ride will adjust the shock absorber characteristics to enhance the ride and handling of the vehicle for towing or hauling heavy loads.
Tow/Haul Mode (Allison Transmission®) The selector button is located on the end of the shift lever. Turn the Tow/Haul on and off by pressing the button. When the Tow/Haul is on, a light on the instrument panel cluster will come on. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 264 for more information. Also see “Tow Haul Mode” under Towing a Trailer on page 429 for more information. Grade Braking and Cruise Grade Braking (Allison Transmission®) If your vehicle has an Allison Transmission®, it may have a Tow/Haul mode.
Cruise Grade Braking is available on the 6.6L DURAMAX® diesel engine. Cruise Grade Braking monitors a vehicle’s cruise state, engine torque, acceleration, vehicle speed, and the cruise set speed. Using this information, it detects when the truck is accelerating on a downhill grade and will automatically downshift to slow the vehicle if it exceeds the cruise set speed by a certain amount. Manual Transmission Operation Five-Speed (VORTEC™ 6.0L V8 Engine) Here is how to operate your transmission.
FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. Shift into FIRST (1) only when the vehicle is below 5 mph (8 km/h). Notice: If you try to shift down into FIRST (1) at excessive vehicle speeds, clutch or engine damage could occur. Do not shift into FIRST (1) unless you are going less than 5 mph (8km/h). SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal and shift into SECOND (2).
Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake, when turning off your engine and parking your vehicle. Five-Speed (VORTEC™ 4.3L V6 and 4.8L V8 Engines) Here is how to operate your transmission: FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5): Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5) the same way you do for SECOND (2).
Shift Speeds {CAUTION: If you skip a gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle. You could injure yourself or others. Do not shift down more than one gear at a time when you downshift. Do not allow the engine Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) to overspeed and enter the tachometer red lines. Engine overspeed occurs when downshifting, or descending a grade, at too high a vehicle speed.
When this light comes on, you can shift to the next higher gear if weather, road and traffic conditions allow. For the best fuel economy, accelerate slowly and shift when the light comes on. While you accelerate, it is normal for the light to go on and off if you quickly change the position of the accelerator. Front Axle Locking Feature The front axle locks and unlocks automatically when you shift the transfer case. Some delay for the axle to lock or unlock is normal.
A 4WD indicator light comes on when you shift into four-wheel drive and the front axle engages. See Four-Wheel-Drive Light on page 263. Some delay between shifting and when the indicator light comes on is normal. Recommended Transfer Case Settings Driving Conditions Normal Severe Extreme Vehicle in Tow* Transfer Case Settings 2H 4H 4L N YES YES YES YES *See Recreational Vehicle Towing on page 424 or Towing Your Vehicle on page 423 for further information.
{CAUTION: Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P), or if you have a manual transmission, even if you are in gear. You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See Parking Brake on page 169. N (Neutral): Shift to this setting only when your vehicle needs to be towed. See Recreational Vehicle Towing on page 424 or Towing Your Vehicle on page 423.
When Using the Manual Transfer Case • Shifting should be made using quick motions. Shifting slowly may make it more difficult to shift. • You may notice that it is harder to shift when the vehicle is cold. After the vehicle warms up the shifting will return to normal. • While in 4H or 4L you may experience reduced fuel economy. • Avoid driving in four-wheel drive on clean, dry pavement. Doing this may cause the tires to wear faster, and make your transfer case harder to shift, and run noisier.
Shifting In or Out of 4L (Four-Wheel Drive Low) Notice: Shifting the transfer case into 4L while moving at speeds faster than 3 mph (5 km/h) may cause premature wear to the transfer case, and may cause the gears to grind. To avoid causing premature wear, and grinding the gears, do not shift the transfer case into 4L while the vehicle is moving faster than 3 mph (5 km/h). Shifts into 4L can be made with the vehicle at a stop, or while slowly rolling about 1 to 3 mph (2 to 5 km/h).
Recommended Transfer Case Settings Driving Conditions Normal Variable Severe Extreme Transfer Case Settings 2 m AUTO 4WD 4 m 4 n N YES YES YES YES Vehicle in Tow* YES *See Recreational Vehicle Towing on page 424 for further information. You can choose among five driving settings: Notice: Driving on clean, dry pavement in Four-Wheel-Drive High or Four-Wheel-Drive Low for an extended period of time may cause premature wear on your vehicle’s powertrain.
2 m (Two-Wheel Drive High): This setting is used for driving in most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. This setting also provides the best fuel economy. {CAUTION: Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See Parking Brake on page 169.
Shifting into Four-Wheel Drive High or AUTO 4WD (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive) Press and release the Four-Wheel Drive High or AUTO 4WD switch. This can be done at any speed, except when shifting from Four-Wheel Drive Low. The indicator light will flash while shifting. It will remain on when the shift is completed. Shifting into Two-Wheel Drive High Press and release the Two-Wheel Drive High switch. This can be done at any speed, except when shifting from Four-Wheel Drive Low.
If the Four-Wheel Drive Low switch is pressed when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light will flash for 30 seconds and the vehicle will not complete the shift unless it is moving less than 3 mph (5 km/h) and the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N). After 30 seconds the transfer case will shift to Four-Wheel Drive High mode.
Shifting Into NEUTRAL {CAUTION: Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See Parking Brake on page 169. To shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL do the following: 1. Make sure the vehicle is parked so that it will not roll. 2. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. 3.
Shifting Out of NEUTRAL To shift out of NEUTRAL: 1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. 2. Turn the ignition to RUN with the engine off. 3. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Press the button for the desired transfer case shift position (Two-Wheel Drive High, Four-Wheel Drive High, AUTO 4WD, or Four-Wheel Drive Low). 5. After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL the red light will go out. 6. Release the parking brake prior to moving the vehicle. 7.
Electronic Transfer Case If your four-wheel-drive vehicle has the electronic transfer case, the transfer case switches are located to the left of the instrument panel cluster. Recommended Transfer Case Settings Driving Conditions Normal Severe Extreme Vehicle in Tow* Transfer Case Settings 2 m 4 m 4 n N YES Indicator lights in the switches show you which setting you are in. The indicator lights will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition and the last chosen setting will stay on.
{CAUTION: Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See Parking Brake on page 169. (N) NEUTRAL: Shift the vehicle’s transfer case to NEUTRAL only when towing your vehicle. See Recreational Vehicle Towing on page 424 or Towing Your Vehicle on page 423 for more information.
Shifting from Two-Wheel Drive High or Four-Wheel Drive High to Four-Wheel Drive Low To shift from Two-Wheel Drive High or Four-Wheel Drive High to Four-Wheel Drive Low, the vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (5 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N) for an automatic transmission, or the clutch pedal pressed for a manual transmission. The preferred method for shifting into Four-Wheel Drive Low is to have your vehicle moving 3 mph (5 km/h). Press and release the Four-Wheel Drive Low switch.
Shifting from Four-Wheel Drive Low to Four-Wheel Drive High or Two-Wheel Drive High To shift from Four-Wheel Drive Low to Four-Wheel Drive High or Two-Wheel Drive High, your vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (5 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N) for an automatic transmission or the clutch pedal pressed for a manual transmission. The preferred method for shifting out of Four-Wheel Drive Low is to have your vehicle moving 3 mph (5 km/h).
5. Simultaneously press and hold the Two-Wheel Drive High and Four-Wheel Drive Low buttons for 10 seconds. The red NEUTRAL light will come on when the transfer case shift to NEUTRAL is complete. 6. Start the engine if it is not already running. 7. Press and hold the foot brake pedal and Shift the transmission to REVERSE (R) for one second, then shift the transmission for one second to DRIVE (D) for an automatic transmission, or FIRST (1) for vehicles that have a manual transmission. Then let out the clutch.
6. You may start the engine and shift the transmission to the desired position. Excessively shifting the transfer case into or out of the different modes may cause the transfer case to enter the shift protection mode. This mode protects the transfer case from possible damage and only allows the transfer case to respond to one shift per 10 seconds. The transfer case may stay in this mode for up to three minutes. 7. After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL the red light will go out.
Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transmission) {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transmission) {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. If you have four-wheel drive and your transfer case is in NEUTRAL, your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — not in NEUTRAL.
If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). Shifting Out of Park (P) (Automatic Transmission) Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system which locks the shift lever in PARK (P) when the ignition is in the LOCK position.
Parking Over Things That Burn {CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other things that can burn.
Engine Exhaust CAUTION: • Your vehicle was damaged when {CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: • Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. • Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. • Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. CAUTION: 174 (Continued) (Continued) driving over high points on the road or over road debris. • Repairs were not done correctly.
Running the Engine While Parked It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. {CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier caution under Engine Exhaust on page 174. Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the climate control fan is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage.
{CAUTION: Four-wheel drive vehicles with the transfer case in NEUTRAL will allow the vehicle to roll, even if your automatic transmission shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — not in NEUTRAL. Always set your parking brake. Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle will not move. See Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transmission) on page 170. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 429.
To adjust between Fahrenheit and Celsius do the following: 1. Press and hold the on/off button for approximately four seconds until either a flashing F or C appears. 2. Press the button again to change the display to the desired unit of measurement. After approximately four seconds of inactivity, the new unit will be locked in and the compass/temperature display will return. If an abnormal temperature reading is displayed for an extended period of time, please consult your dealer.
Compass Variance The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if you live outside of zone eight. Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for compass variance. Compass variance is the difference between earth’s magnetic north and true geographic north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance, your compass could give false readings.
Compass Calibration Passenger Airbag Indicator The compass may need calibration if one of the following occurs: • After approximately five seconds, the display does not show a compass heading (N for North, for example), there may be a strong magnetic field interfering with the compass. Such interference may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item. • The compass does not display the correct heading and the compass zone variance is set correctly.
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass and Temperature Display If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic mirror, it will, when on, automatically dim to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark. The mirror also includes a display in the upper right corner of the mirror face. The compass reading and the outside temperature will both appear in the display at the same time. The dual display can be turned on or off by briefly pressing either the TEMP or the COMP button.
Automatic Dimming Mirror Operation Compass Calibration The time period you need to press and hold the TEMP button to turn the automatic dimming feature on or off is approximately eight seconds. The indicator light to the left of the TEMP button will still turn on or off to show you when the automatic dimming feature is activated. Once the mirror is turned off, it will remain off until it is turned back on, or until the vehicle is restarted.
Compass Variance The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if you live outside zone eight. Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for compass variance. Compass variance is the difference between earth’s magnetic north and true geographic north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance, your compass could give false readings.
Passenger Airbag Indicator Outside Trailer-Tow Mirrors The mirror may be equipped with a passenger airbag indicator on the mirror glass, just above the buttons. If the vehicle has this feature the mirror will display the word ON, or an airbag symbol in Canada, when the passenger airbag is enabled. For more information see Passenger Sensing System on page 103 Cleaning the Mirror When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar material dampened with glass cleaner.
If your vehicle is equipped with this style trailering-type mirror, they can be adjusted so you can have a clear view of the objects behind you. Adjust each mirror by turning it left or right. Once the mirror is adjusted to the correct position, tighten the set screw to hold the mirror in place. These mirrors can also be manually folded in. On the lower portion of the mirror is a convex mirror. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat.
Outside West Coast-Type Mirrors If your vehicle is equipped with these mirrors, they can be adjusted so you can have a clear view of objects behind you. A. Outer Mirror Frame B. Mirror Head C. Nut The mirrors can be adjusted by turning the mirror head (B) and moving the outer mirror frame (A) backward or forward. You can also loosen the nut (C) on the top and bottom of the outer mirror frame to tilt the mirror head.
Outside Power Foldaway Mirrors If your vehicle is equipped with this feature, the controls are located on the driver’s door armrest. Move the upper selector switch to the left or right to choose the mirror you want to adjust; then press the dots located on the four-way control pad to adjust the mirror. The mirrors may also include a memory function which works together with the memory seats. See Memory Seat and Mirrors on page 12 for more information.
Resetting the Power Foldaway Mirrors Outside Curb View Assist Mirrors You will need to reset the power foldaway mirrors if the following occurs: • They are accidentally manually folded/ unfolded. • The mirrors will not stay in the unfolded position. • The mirrors shake and flutter at normal driving speeds. If the vehicle has the memory package, the outside mirrors are able to perform the curb view assist mirror function.
Outside Convex Mirror {CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes. Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat.
OnStar® System A complete OnStar® Owner’s Guide and the Terms and Conditions of the OnStar® Subscription Service Agreement are included in the vehicle’s OnStar® Subscriber Information packet located in your vehicle. For more information, visit www.onstar.com or www.onstar.ca, contact OnStar® at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827), or press the OnStar® button to speak with an OnStar® advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Safe & Sound Plan • Automatic Notification of Airbag Deployment • Emergency Services • Roadside Assistance • Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance • AccidentAssist • Remote Door Unlock/Vehicle Alert • OnStar® Vehicle Diagnostics • OnStar® Hands-Free Calling • OnStar® Virtual Advisor Directions & Connections® Plan • All Safe & Sound Plan Services • Driving Directions • RideAssist • Information and Convenience Services 190 OnStar® Hands-Free Calling OnStar® Hands-Free Calling allows OnStar® subscribers to make
OnStar® Steering Wheel Controls Your vehicle may be equipped with a Talk/Mute button that can be used to interact with OnStar®. See Audio Steering Wheel Controls on page 349 for more information. When calling into voice mail systems, or to dial directory numbers, press this button once, wait for the response, say the number(s) to be dialed, wait for the number(s) to be repeated and then say “dial”. See the OnStar® Owner’s Guide for more information.
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. The Canadian Registration ID number is 3521A-GTE05A. Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
Universal Home Remote System Operation (With Three Round LED) Do not use the this system with any garage door opener that does not have the stop and reverse feature. This includes any garage door opener model manufactured before April 1, 1982. Read the instructions completely before attempting to program the transmitter. Because of the steps involved, it may be helpful to have another person available to assist you in programming the transmitter. Your vehicle may have the Universal Home Remote System.
Programming Universal Home Remote — Fixed Code Fixed Code garage door openers are used for garage doors produced prior to 1996. Fixed code uses the same coded signal every time, which is manually programmed by setting DIP switches for a unique personal code. Follow these steps to program up to three channels: 1. Remove the battery cover of the hand-held transmitter.
Example of Switch Settings 2. Write down the eight to 12 coding switch settings from left to right. When the switch is in the up position, write “on,” and when a switch is in the down position, write “off”. If a switch is set between the up and down position, write “middle”. 3. Enter these positions into the Universal Home Remote System as follows. Press and release all three buttons at the same time to put the device into programming mode. Example 4. The indicator light will blink slowly.
6. Press and hold the button you would like to use to control the garage door until the garage door moves. The indicator light above the selected button should slowly blink. You may need to hold the button from five to 55 seconds. 7. Immediately release the button when the garage door moves. The indicator light will blink rapidly until programming is complete. 8. Press and release the button again. The garage door should move, confirming that programming is successful and complete.
3. Press and hold the button you would like to use to control the garage door until the garage door moves. The indicator light, above the selected button, should slowly blink. You may need to hold the button from five to 20 seconds. 4. Immediately release the button when the garage door moves. The indicator light will blink rapidly until programming is complete. 5. Press and release the button again. The garage door should move, confirming that programming is successful and complete. 2. Go to the garage.
Reprogramming Universal Home Remote Buttons You can reprogram any of the three buttons by repeating the instructions. Universal Home Remote System Operation (With One Triangular LED) Erasing Universal Home Remote Buttons You should erase the programmed buttons when you sell the vehicle or terminate your lease. To erase either rolling code or fixed code on the Universal Home Remote device, do the following: 1.
If you have a newer garage door opener with rolling codes, please be sure to follow Steps 6 through 8 to complete the programming of your Universal Home Remote Transmitter. Read the instructions completely before attempting to program the Universal Home Remote. Because of the steps involved, it may be helpful to have another person available to assist you in the programming steps. Keep the original hand-held transmitter for use in other vehicles as well as for future Universal Home Remote programming.
4. The indicator light will flash slowly at first and then rapidly after Universal Home Remote successfully receives the frequency signal from the hand-held transmitter. Release both buttons. 5. Press and hold the newly-trained Universal Home Remote button and observe the indicator light. If the indicator light stays on continuously, programming is complete and your device should activate when the Universal Home Remote button is pressed and released.
Gate Operator and Canadian Programming Canadian radio-frequency laws require transmitter signals to time out or quit after several seconds of transmission. This may not be long enough for Universal Home Remote to pick up the signal during programming. Similarly, some U.S. gate operators are manufactured to time out in the same manner.
Reprogramming a Single Universal Home Remote Button To program a device to Universal Home Remote using a Universal Home Remote button previously trained, follow these steps: 1. Press and hold the desired Universal Home Remote button. Do not release the button. 2. The indicator light will begin to flash after 20 seconds. While still holding the Universal Home Remote button, proceed with Step 2 under “Programming Universal Home Remote” shown earlier in this section.
Tonneau Cover If your vehicle has a tonneau cover, follow the directions below to remove the cover. 1. To remove, unsnap the cover. Roll it up and stow it using the buckle and strap located at the front of the box. A. Back rail B. Side rail C. Rear bow D. Center bow E. Front bow F. Front rail 2. Remove the tonneau cover from the notch in the front rail on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
4. To add cargo to the box, remove all bows and the back rail and stow them safely. 3. Remove the three bows by gently pushing them against the spring-loaded end. The three bows are labeled front, center and rear to remind you of the order in which to reinstall them. 204 To clean the tonneau cover, use mild soap and water. If necessary, use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt trapped in the grain of the material.
Sunroof The vehicle may have a power sliding sunroof. To open or close the sunroof, the ignition must be on or Retained Accessory Power (RAP) must be active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 137 for more information. The sunroof control is located on the overhead console. Press the rear of the control to open the sunroof to the vent position, then press the rear of the control again to express-open the sunroof. The sunroof also has a roller sunscreen that can be used to block the rays of the sun.
✍ NOTES 206
Section 3 Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Overview ........................ 210 Hazard Warning Flashers .......................... 212 Other Warning Devices ............................. 213 Horn .......................................................... 213 Tilt Wheel .................................................. 213 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever .................. 214 Turn and Lane-Change Signals ................. 214 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer .......... 215 Flash-to-Pass .................
Section 3 Instrument Panel Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light ...... 255 Traction Off Light ...................................... 256 Engine Coolant Temperature Gage ............ 256 Transmission Temperature Gage ............... 257 Malfunction Indicator Lamp ........................ 258 Oil Pressure Gage ..................................... 262 Security Light ............................................ 263 Cruise Control Light .................................. 263 Highbeam On Light ................
✍ NOTES 209
Instrument Panel Overview Automatic Transmission Version shown, Manual Transmission Version similar 210
The main components of your instrument panel are the following: A. Dome Lamp Override Button. See Dome Lamp Override on page 227. B. Headlamp Controls. See Headlamps on page 221. C. Air Outlets. See Outlet Adjustment on page 243. D. Automatic Transfer Case/Electronic Transfer Case/Traction Assist System (TAS). See Four-Wheel Drive on page 153 and Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 363. E. Multifunction Lever. See Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 214. F. Instrument Panel Cluster.
S. Cigarette Lighter. See Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter on page 229. T. Accessory Power Outlet. See Accessory Power Outlet(s) on page 228. U. Manual Selectable Ride Control (If Equipped). See Manual Selectable Ride on page 365. V. Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp Button (If Equipped). See Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp on page 226. W. Passenger Airbag Off Switch (If Equipped). See Airbag Off Switch on page 100. X. Glove Box. See Glove Box on page 202.
Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set them up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. Horn To sound the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel. Tilt Wheel The tilt wheel will allow you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. Raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter your vehicle. The tilt steering wheel lever is located on the lower left side of the column.
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever • L Windshield Washer. See Windshield Washer on page 217. • I Cruise Control. See Cruise Control on page 217. For information on the headlamps, see Headlamps on page 221. Turn and Lane-Change Signals The lever on the left side of the steering column includes the following: • G Turn and Lane Change Signals. See Turn and Lane-Change Signals on page 214. • 53 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer. See Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer on page 215. • Flash-to-Pass.
An arrow on the instrument panel cluster will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change. As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows flash more quickly than normal, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers will not see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows do not go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and a blown fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 600.
Flash-to-Pass This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. It works even if your headlamps are in the automatic position. To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, then release it. If your headlamps are in the automatic position or on low beam, your high-beam headlamps will turn on. They will stay on as long as you hold the lever toward you. The high-beam indicator on the instrument panel cluster will come on.
Windshield Washer LQ (Washer Fluid): There is a paddle marked with the windshield washer symbol at the top of the multifunction lever. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed. Cruise Control 9 (Off): Move the switch to this position to turn off the cruise control system. {CAUTION: In freezing weather, do not use your washer until the windshield is warmed.
R (On): Move the switch to this position to turn on the cruise control system. + (Resume/Accelerate): Move the switch to this position to make the vehicle accelerate or resume to a previously set speed. T (Set): Press this button to set the speed. With cruise control, the vehicle can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h).
Setting Cruise Control {CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control on when you are not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you do not want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control. 1. Move the cruise control switch to on. 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Press the set button at the end of the lever and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed: • Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Press the set button, then release the set button and the accelerator pedal. You will now cruise at the higher speed. If the accelerator pedal is held longer than 60 seconds, cruise control will turn off. • Move the cruise switch from on to resume/ accelerate.
Ending Cruise Control Headlamps There are four ways to turn off the cruise control: • Step lightly on the brake pedal, • Move the cruise control switch to off, or • Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N). • Hold the accelerator pedal for 60 seconds or longer. Erasing Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased. The control on the driver’s side of your instrument panel operates the headlamps.
The headlamp control has four positions: 9 (Off): Turn the control to this position to turn off the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) and the automatic headlamps. AUTO (Automatic): Turn the control to this position to activate the automatic headlamp mode.
The DRL system will come on when the following conditions are met: • The ignition is on • The exterior lamps control is in AUTO • The light sensor determines it is daytime When the DRL are on, only your DRL lamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker, and other lamps will not be on. The instrument panel back lighting will not be on either. When it begins to get dark, the automatic headlamp system will switch from DRL to the headlamps. When you turn the headlamp switch off, the headlamps will go off.
The system may also turn on the headlamps when driving through a parking garage, heavy overcast weather, or a tunnel. This is normal. There is a delay in the transition between the daytime and nighttime operation of the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) and the automatic headlamp systems so that driving under bridges or bright overhead street lights does not affect the system.
Fog Lamps If your vehicle has fog lamps, use them for better vision in foggy or misty conditions. The fog lamp button is located on the left side of the instrument panel. Remember, fog lamps alone will not give off as much light as the headlamps. Never use the fog lamps in the dark without turning on the headlamps. The fog lamps will go off whenever the high-beam headlamps come on. When the high beams go off, the fog lamps will come on again.
Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp Instrument Panel Brightness If your vehicle has this feature, this button includes wiring provisions for a dealer or a qualified service center to install an auxiliary roof lamp. D (Instrument Panel Brightness): This feature controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. This button is located on the center of the instrument panel near the climate controls. The thumbwheel for this feature is located next to the headlamp control.
Dome Lamp Override Exit Lighting E (Dome Lamp Override): You can use the dome override button, located below the exterior lamps control, to set the dome lamps to come on automatically when a door is opened, or to remain off. To turn the lamps off, press the button in. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will remain off when the doors are open. To return the lamps to automatic operation, press the button again to return it to the extended position.
Cargo Lamp Accessory Power Outlet(s) The cargo lamp button is located on the left side of the instrument panel. Press the button to turn the cargo lamp on or off. An indicator light on the instrument panel cluster will come on when the cargo lamp is turned on, and the ignition key is turned to RUN. Accessory power outlets can be used to connect auxiliary electrical equipment, such as a cellular telephone or CB radio. The outlet can accept electrical equipment up to a maximum of 20 amperes.
Certain power accessory plugs may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could result in blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information on the accessory power plugs. Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to your vehicle may damage it or keep other components from working as they should. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not use equipment exceeding maximum amperage rating of 20 amperes.
Climate Controls Climate Control System Temperature Knob The middle knob on the control panel lets you select the temperature of the air flowing into the passenger area. Turn the knob clockwise toward the red area for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise toward the blue area for cooler air. Mode Knob The right knob on the control panel allows you to choose the direction of air delivery. H (Vent): This mode directs the air through the instrument panel outlets.
W (Defog): Airflow is delivered through the floor outlets, the windshield defroster outlets, and the side window defroster outlets. The air flow can be divided between floor and defrost depending upon where the knob is placed between the settings. Dual Climate Control System With this system you can control the heating, cooling, and ventilation for your vehicle.
Mode Control h (Recirculation): The recirculation mode is To change the current mode, select one of the following: used to recirculate the air inside of your vehicle. Use this mode to help prevent outside odors and/or dust from entering your vehicle or to help cool the air inside of your vehicle more quickly. Press this button to turn the recirculation mode on or off. The light on the recirculation button will illuminate. Recirculation cannot be used in floor, defog or defrost modes.
Temperature Control Defogging and Defrosting Driver’s Side: The lever on the left side of the climate control panel is used to raise or lower the temperature on the driver’s side of the vehicle. This lever also adjusts the temperature to the center console outlets, if the vehicle has them. Fog on the inside of the windows is a result of high humidity (moisture) condensing on the cool window glass. This can be minimized if the climate control system is used properly.
1 (Defrost): This mode directs most of the air to the windshield and the side window outlets, with only a little air directed to the floor outlets. The air conditioning compressor will run automatically to dehumidify the air to prevent window fogging. The recirculation mode cannot be selected while in defrost mode. Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear. Rear Window Defogger If your vehicle has this feature, the rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window.
Dual Automatic Climate Control System With this system, you can control the heating, cooling, and ventilation in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has a flow-through ventilation system described later in this section. Driver’s Side Temperature Knob The driver’s side knob is used to adjust the temperature of the air coming through the system on the driver’s side. The temperature can be adjusted even if the system is turned off.
Passenger’s Side Temperature Knob Automatic Operation The passenger’s side knob can be used to change the temperature of the air coming through the system on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. The temperature can be adjusted even if the system is turned off. This is possible since outside air will always flow through the system as the vehicle is moving forward unless it is set to recirculation mode. See “Recirculation” later in this section.
When AUTO is selected, the air conditioning operation and air inlet will be automatically controlled. The air conditioning compressor will run when the outside temperature is over about 40°F (4°C). The air inlet will normally be set to outside air. If it is hot outside, the air inlet may automatically switch to recirculate inside air to help quickly cool down your vehicle. The light on the button will come on in recirculation. 2. Set the driver’s and passenger’s temperature.
Manual Operation You may manually adjust the air delivery mode or fan speed. w9x (Fan): The switch with the fan symbol allows you to manually adjust the fan speed. Press the up arrow to increase fan speed and the down arrow to decrease fan speed. Pressing this button when the system is off will turn the system on. C (Mode): Press this button to manually change the direction of the airflow in your vehicle; repeatedly press the button until the desired mode appears on the display.
If you select recirculation while in defrost, defog, or floor, the light in the button will flash and then go out to let you know that this is not allowed. This is normal and helps to prevent fogging. When the weather is cool or damp, operating the system in recirculation for extended periods of time may cause fogging of the vehicle’s windows. To clear the fog, select either defog or front defrost. You may also notice that the air condition compressor will run while in recirculation mode.
Air Conditioning # (Air Conditioning): Press this button to turn the air conditioning (A/C) compressor on and off. The snowflake symbol will appear on the display when the A/C is on and will turn off when the air conditioning is off. Pressing this button when the outside temperature is too cool for air conditioning will make the snowflake symbol flash three times and then turn off to let you know the air conditioning mode is not available.
Sensors The solar sensor, located in the defrost grille, that is in the middle of the instrument panel, monitors the solar radiation. Do not cover the solar sensor or the system will not work properly. There is an interior temperature sensor located next to the steering wheel that measures the temperature of the air inside your vehicle. There is also an exterior temperature sensor located behind the front grille.
In order to prevent false temperature readings at startup, the displayed temperature will not change until the following occurs: • Vehicle speed is above 10 mph (16 kmh) for 5 minutes. • Vehicle speed is above 32 mph (51 kmh) for 2 and a half minutes. Defogging and Defrosting The climate control system uses the information from these sensors to maintain your comfort setting by adjusting the outlet temperature, fan speed, and the air delivery mode.
Rear Window Defogger Outlet Adjustment If your vehicle has this feature, the rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Use the air outlets located in the center and on the side of your instrument panel to direct the airflow. If your vehicle has a sliding rear window, you will not have a rear window defogger. < (Rear): Press this button to turn the rear window defogger on or off.
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions.
Instrument Panel Cluster United States Heavy Duty Automatic Transmission version shown. Canada, Light Duty Automatic and Manual Transmission Clusters similar. Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You will know how fast you are going, about how much fuel you have and many other things you will need to know to drive safely and economically.
Speedometer and Odometer Trip Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero.
Safety Belt Reminder Light Airbag Readiness Light When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will sound for several seconds to remind people to buckle their safety belts. The driver safety belt light will also come on and stay on for several seconds, then it will flash for several more. You should buckle your seat belt. There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the airbag’s electrical system for malfunctions.
Airbag Off Light If your vehicle has an airbag off switch, it also has an airbag off light. See Airbag Off Switch on page 100 for more on this, including important safety information. United States Canada When you turn the right front passenger’s airbag off, this light will come on and stay on to remind you that the airbag has been turned off. This light will go off when you turn the airbag on.
{CAUTION: CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right front passenger’s airbag could inflate even though the switch is off.
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system, your rearview mirror will have a passenger airbag status indicator. will light either ON or OFF, or either the on or off symbol to let you know the status of the right front passenger’s frontal airbag. Your vehicle may have a label on your sun visor that says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys.
Never put a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat the unless passenger airbag status indicator shows off. Never put a rear facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the airbag is off.
If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the passenger airbag status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger’s airbag. See Passenger Sensing System on page 103 or Airbag Off Switch on page 100 for more on this, including important safety information. {CAUTION: If the right front passenger’s airbag is turned off for a person who is not in a risk group identified by the national government, that person will not have the extra protection of an airbag.
Battery Warning Light If this light comes on when the engine is running, there could be a problem with the charging system. Voltmeter Gage When the engine is not running, but the ignition is in RUN, this gage shows your battery’s state of charge in DC volts. The battery display will also stay on while the key is in RUN until the engine is started. If the light stays on after starting the engine it could indicate a problem with the generator drive belt, or some other charging system problem.
This condition is normal since the charging system is not able to provide full power at engine idle. As engine speeds are increased, this condition should correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the charging system to create maximum power. You can only drive for a short time with the reading in either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all unnecessary accessories. Brake System Warning Light With the ignition on, the brake system warning light will flash when you set the parking brake.
This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If it does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push or may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See Towing Your Vehicle on page 423.
The ABS warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Traction Off Light If your vehicle has the Traction Assist System, this light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition to RUN. United States Canada This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the light does not come on then, the system may require service.
Transmission Temperature Gage United States Canada Your vehicle may have a transmission temperature gage. When your ignition is on, the gage shows the temperature of the transmission fluid. The normal operating range is from 100°F (38°C) to about 265°F (130°C). At approximately 265°F (130°C), the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display a TRANSMISSION HOT message and the transmission will enter a transmission protection mode.
If the transmission continues to operate above 265°F (130°C), contact your nearest dealer or the GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 644. Notice: If you drive your vehicle with the transmission temperature gage above normal operating range, you can damage the transmission. This could lead to costly repairs that would not be covered by your warranty. Do not drive your vehicle while the transmission temperature gage reading is above normal. See your dealer for service.
This system is called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The check engine light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. This may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle.
If the Light is Flashing If the Light Is On Steady The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: • Reducing vehicle speed • Avoiding hard accelerations • Avoiding steep uphill grades • If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following.
Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel. See Gasoline Octane on page 470. Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on.
Oil Pressure Gage A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by a dangerously low oil level or some other problem causing low oil pressure. Check your oil as soon as possible. See “OIL PRESSURE LOW” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 270 and Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 486. {CAUTION: United States Canada The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running. Canadian vehicles indicate pressure in kPa (kilopascals).
Security Light Highbeam On Light This light flashes when the vehicle security system is activated. Cruise Control Light This light comes on whenever you set your cruise control. The light will go out when the cruise control is turned off. See Cruise Control on page 217 for more information. This light comes on when the high-beam headlamps are in use. See Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer on page 215.
Tow/Haul Mode Light Fuel Gage This light comes on when the Tow/Haul mode has been activated. For more information, see Tow/Haul Mode on page 147. United States Canada Cargo Lamp Light This light comes on when the cargo lamp is in use. For more information see Cargo Lamp on page 228. 264 When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left in your tank. The gage will first indicate empty before you are out of fuel, and you should get more fuel as soon as possible.
Here are some situations you may experience with your fuel gage. None of these indicate a problem with the fuel gage. • At the gas station, the fuel pump shuts off before the gage reads full. • It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the fuel gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill the tank. • The gage goes back to empty when you turn off the ignition.
If your vehicle has an Allison Transmission® and the shift lever is in the MANUAL MODE (M) position, the DIC will display the current gear range. The DIC will also display the gear range as it is shifted up or down. For example, if the gear range is currently set to 6, the DIC will display (6) 5 4 3 2 1. When the gear range is shifted down one time, the DIC will display 6 (5) 4 3 2 1. See Automatic Transmission Operation on page 140 for more information.
Trip Information Button 3 (Trip Information): Press the trip information button to scroll through the ODOMETER, TRIP A, TRIP B, TIMER, ENGINE HOURS, and SELECTED RANGE. Odometer: Press the trip information button until ODOMETER appears on the display. This mode shows the total distance the vehicle has been driven in either miles or kilometers. Pressing the reset stem located on the instrument cluster with the vehicle off will also display the odometer.
Engine Hours: Press the trip information button until ENGINE HOURS appears on the display. This mode shows the total number of hours the engine has run. Pressing and holding the reset stem located on the instrument cluster for about four seconds will also display the engine hour information after the odometer is displayed when the vehicle is off.
Press and hold the select button for one second while AVG ECON is displayed to reset the average fuel economy. Average fuel economy will then be calculated starting from that point. If the average fuel economy is not reset, it will be continually updated each time you drive. Engine Oil Life System: Press the fuel information button until ENGINE OIL LIFE appears on the display. The engine oil life system shows an estimate of the oil’s remaining useful life.
DIC Warnings and Messages Warning messages are displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC) to notify the driver that the status of the vehicle has changed and that some action may be needed by the driver to correct the condition. If there is more than one message that needs to be displayed, they will appear one after another.
BUCKLE PASSENGER BUCKLE SEATBELT If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system, this message reminds you to buckle the passenger’s safety belt. See Passenger Sensing System on page 103. If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system, this message reminds you to buckle the driver’s safety belt. See Passenger Sensing System on page 103.
CHANGE ENGINE OIL CHECK OIL LEVEL This message is displayed when the engine oil needs to be changed. If your vehicle has an oil level sensor, and the oil level in the vehicle is low, this message will appear on the DIC. Check the oil level and correct it as necessary. You may need to let the vehicle cool or warm up and cycle the ignition to be sure this message will clear. Once the problem is corrected, pressing any of the four DIC buttons will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display.
DRIVER DOOR AJAR ENGINE OVERHEATED If the driver’s door is not fully closed, this message will appear on the display and you will hear a chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for obstructions, and close the door again. Check to see if the message still appears on the DIC. Pressing any of the four DIC buttons will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display.
FUEL LEVEL LOW LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR (Crew Cab) If the fuel level is low, this message will appear on the DIC and you will hear a chime. Refuel as soon as possible. Pressing any of the four DIC buttons will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display. If your vehicle does not have the four DIC buttons, pressing the trip odometer reset stem will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display. See Low Fuel Warning Light on page 265, Fuel Gage on page 264, and Fuel on page 470.
If your vehicle has a low coolant level sensor, this message will appear on the DIC if the engine coolant level is low. Adding coolant to the coolant recovery tank will clear the message. See Cooling System on page 508. Pressing any of the four DIC buttons will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display. If your vehicle does not have the four DIC buttons, pressing the trip odometer reset stem will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display.
PASSENGER DOOR AJAR REDUCED ENGINE POWER If the passenger’s door is not fully closed, this message will appear on the display and you will hear a chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for obstructions, and close the door again. Check to see if the message still appears on the DIC. Pressing any of the four DIC buttons will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display.
RIGHT REAR DOOR AJAR (Crew Cab) SERVICE AIRBAG If the passenger’s side rear door is not fully closed, this message will appear on the display and you will hear a chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for obstructions, and close the door again. Check to see if the message still appears on the DIC. Pressing any of the four DIC buttons will acknowledge the message and clear it from the DIC display.
SERVICE BRAKE BOOSTER {CAUTION: Your brake system may not be working properly if the SERVICE BRAKE BOOSTER message is displayed. If the brake system warning light is also on, you should have the vehicle towed for service. See Brake System Warning Light on page 254. If the brake system warning light is not on, you still have brakes, but the supplemental brake assist system on vehicles with rear disc brakes may not operate properly.
SERVICE CHARGING SYSTEM TIGHTEN FUEL CAP On some vehicles, if there is a problem with the battery charging system, this message will appear on the DIC. Under certain conditions, the battery warning light may also turn on in the instrument panel cluster. See Battery Warning Light on page 253. The battery will not be charging at an optimal rate and the vehicle will lose the ability to enter the fuel economy mode.
TRANSMISSION HOT Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the transmission fluid is overheating and the transmission temperature warning is displayed on the instrument panel cluster and/or DIC, you can damage the transmission. This could lead to costly repairs that would not be covered by your warranty. Do not drive your vehicle with overheated transmission fluid or while the transmission temperature warning is displayed.
TRANS (Transmission) HOT IDLE ENGINE TRANS (Transmission) IN WARM UP (Allison Transmission® Only) Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the transmission fluid is overheating and the transmission temperature warning is displayed on the instrument panel cluster and/or DIC, you can damage the transmission. This could lead to costly repairs that would not be covered by your warranty. Do not drive your vehicle with overheated transmission fluid or while the transmission temperature warning is displayed.
DIC Vehicle Customization Lock Doors (Automatic Transmission only) Your vehicle may have customization capabilities that allow you to program some features to one setting based on your preference. All of the customizable options listed may not be available on your vehicle. Only the options available will be displayed on your Driver Information Center (DIC). If you have an automatic transmission vehicle, press the customization button until LOCK DOORS appears in the display.
Unlock Doors (Automatic Transmission only) UNLOCK DOORS: MANUALLY: The doors will not be unlocked automatically. If you have an automatic transmission vehicle, press the customization button until UNLOCK DOORS appears in the display. To select your preference for automatic unlocking, press the select button while UNLOCK DOORS is displayed on the DIC.
Press the customization button until DOOR LOCK DELAY appears in the display. To select your preference for delayed locking, press the select button while DOOR LOCK DELAY is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through the following choices: DOOR LOCK DELAY: OFF (default): The doors will lock immediately when pressing the power lock switch or the lock button on the RKE transmitter. DOOR LOCK DELAY: ON: The doors will not lock until five seconds after the last door is closed.
Choose one of the available options and press the customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to select it and move on to the next feature. Unlock Feedback Press the customization button until UNLOCK FEEDBACK appears in the display. To select your preference for the feedback you will receive when unlocking the vehicle with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, press the select button while UNLOCK FEEDBACK is displayed on the DIC.
The amount of time you choose will be the amount of time that the headlamps stay on after you turn off the vehicle. If you choose off, the headlamps will turn off as soon as you turn off the vehicle. Choose one of the available options and press the customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to select it and move on to the next feature. Perimeter Lights Press the customization button until PERIMETER LIGHTS appears in the display.
Curb View Alarm Warning Press the customization button until CURB VIEW appears in the display. To select your preference for curb view, press the select button while CURB VIEW is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through the following choices: Press the customization button until ALARM WARNING appears in the display. To select your preference for alarm warning, press the select button while ALARM WARNING is displayed on the DIC.
Language Display Units To select your preference for display language, press the select button while LANGUAGE is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through the following languages: • ENGLISH Press the customization button until DISPLAY UNITS appears in the display. To select English or metric, press the select button while DISPLAY UNITS is displayed on the DIC.
Audio System(s) Determine which radio your vehicle has and then read the pages following to familiarize yourself with its features. Driving without distraction is a necessity for a safer driving experience. See Defensive Driving on page 356. By taking a few moments to read this manual and get familiar with your vehicle’s audio system, you can use it with less effort, as well as take advantage of its features.
While your vehicle is parked: • Familiarize yourself with all of its controls. • Familiarize yourself with its operation. • Set up your audio system by presetting your favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite radio stations using the presets and steering wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
Setting the Time for Radios with Radio Data Systems (RDS) AM-FM Radio The radio may have a button marked with an H or HR to represent hours and an M or MN to represent minutes. Press and hold the hour button until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold the minute button until the correct minute appears on the display. The time can be set with the ignition on or off.
Finding a Station Setting Preset Stations AM FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, or AM. The display shows the selection. Up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM) can be programmed on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations. o SEEK p: Press the right or the left arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) AUDIO: To adjust bass or treble, press and release AUDIO until BAS (bass) or TRE (treble) appears on the display. Then press and hold the up or the down arrow to increase or to decrease. If a station is weak or has static, decrease the treble. AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, press and release AUDIO until BAL (balance) appears on the display.
Radio Messages Radio with CD CAL (Calibrated): The audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If CAL appears on the display it means that the radio has not been configured properly for your vehicle and must be returned to your dealer for service. LOC (Locked): This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle to your dealer for service. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer.
Radio Data System (RDS) The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS features are available for use only on FM stations that broadcast RDS information. With RDS, the radio can do the following: • Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type of programming • Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies • Display messages from radio stations This system relies upon receiving specific information from these stations and will only work when the information is available.
Playing the Radio PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off. o VOL p (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or to decrease the volume. INFO (Information): When the ignition is off, press this knob to display the time. For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears on the display while using RDS. The display options are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the name of the program (if available).
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio will go to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again to stop scanning. To scan preset stations, press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than four seconds. PSCN will appear on the display and you will hear a double beep.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) The radio will save separate AUTO EQ settings for each preset and source. AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob until BASS or TREB (treble) appears on the display. Turn the knob to increase or to decrease. The display will show the bass or treble level. If a station is weak or noisy, decrease the treble. If the radio is equipped with the Bose® audio system, the equalization settings are either CUSTOM or TALK.
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will appear on the display, you will hear a beep, and the display level will be adjusted to the middle position. Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station (RDS and XM™) To select and find a desired PTY perform the following: 1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode. TYPE and a PTY will appear on the display. 2.
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. To turn alternate frequency on, press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF(alternate frequency) ON will appear on the display. The radio may switch to stations with a stronger frequency. To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again for two seconds. AF OFF will appear on the display. The radio will not switch to other stations.
Radio Messages CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If CAL ERR appears on the display, it means that the radio has not been configured properly for the vehicle and must be returned to your GM dealer for service. LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle to your GM dealer for service. If any error occurs repeatedly, or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your GM dealer.
Do not add any label to a CD, it could get caught in the CD player. If a CD is recorded on a personal computer and a description label is needed, try labeling the top of the recorded CD with a marking pen instead. 2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next track. TRACK and the track number will appear on the display. If this pushbutton is held or pressed more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the CD.
6 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RDM ON will appear on the display. RDM T and the track number will appear on the display when each track starts to play. Press this pushbutton again to turn off random play. RDM OFF will appear on the display. © SEEK ¨: Press the left arrow to go to the start of the current or to the previous track. Press the right arrow to go to the start of the next track.
CD Messages If the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons: • It is very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the CD should play. • You are driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smoother, the CD should play. • The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down. • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. • There may have been a problem while burning the CD. • The label may be caught in the CD player.
Radio Data System (RDS) XM™ Satellite Radio Service The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS features are available for use only on FM stations that broadcast RDS information. XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based in the 48 contiguous United States and Canada. XM™ offers a large variety of coast-to-coast channels including music, news, sports, talk, traffic/weather (U.S. subscribers), and children’s programming.
Playing the Radio PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off. o VOL p (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or to decrease the volume. INFO (Information): When the ignition is off, press this knob to display the time. For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears on the display while using RDS. The display options are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the name of the program (if available).
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio will go to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again to stop scanning. To scan preset stations, press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than four seconds. PSCN will appear on the display and you will hear a double beep.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob until BASS or TREB (treble) appears on the display. Turn the knob to increase or to decrease. The display will show the bass or treble level. If a station is weak or noisy, decrease the treble. To adjust the bass or treble to the middle position while it is displayed, push and hold the AUDIO knob. The radio will produce one beep and adjust the display level to the middle position.
To adjust the balance or fade to the middle position while it is displayed, push the AUDIO knob, then push it again and hold it until the radio produces one beep. The balance or fade will be adjusted to the middle position. 4. To go to another station within that PTY, press the TYPE button then, press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows once. 5. Press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows twice to exit program type select mode.
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. To turn alternate frequency on, press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF (alternate frequency) ON will appear on the display. The radio may switch to stations with a stronger frequency. To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again for two seconds. AF OFF will appear on the display. The radio will not switch to other stations.
Radio Messages CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If CAL ERR appears on the display, it means that the radio has not been configured properly for the vehicle and must be returned to your GM dealer for service. LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle to your GM dealer for service. If any error occurs repeatedly, or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your GM dealer.
1 PREV (Previous): The tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for previous to work. Press this pushbutton to go to the previous selection on the tape if the current selection has been playing for less than three seconds. If pressed when the current selection has been playing from three to 13 seconds, it will go to the beginning of the previous selection or the beginning of the current selection, depending on the position on the tape.
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio will go to the next selection, play for 10 seconds, then go on to the next selection. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again, to stop scanning. The tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for scan to work. BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a cassette tape or CD is playing.
CLEAN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but it should be cleaned as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See Care of the Cassette Tape Player on page 350. If the cassette tape is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known good cassette. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your GM dealer.
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner. If playing a CD-R, the sound quality may be reduced due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality of the music that has been recorded, and the way the CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check the bottom surface of the CD.
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to quickly reverse within a track. Press and hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds to reverse at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the track will appear on the display. 4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton to quickly advance within a track.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a cassette tape or CD is playing. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening. TAPE DISC: Press this button to play a cassette tape or CD when listening to the radio. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening. Z (Eject): Press this button to stop and eject a CD when it is not playing. Eject may be activated with either the ignition or radio off.
Listening to a DVD Radio with Six-Disc CD If your vehicle has the Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system and a DVD is playing, the DVD symbol will appear on the radio display indicating that the DVD is available and can be listened to through your vehicle’s speakers. To listen to the DVD, press the TAPE DISC button until RSE appears on the radio display. The current radio source will stop and the DVD sound will come through the speakers.
Radio Data System (RDS) XM™ Satellite Radio Service The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS features are available for use only on FM stations that broadcast RDS information. XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based in the 48 contiguous United States and Canada. XM™ offers a large variety of coast-to-coast channels including music, news, sports, talk, traffic/weather (U.S. subscribers), and children’s programming.
For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears on the display while using RDS. The display options are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the name of the program (if available). Finding a Station For XM™ (if equipped), press the INFO knob while in XM™ mode to retrieve four different categories of information related to the current song or channel: Artist, Song Title, Category or PTY, Channel Number/Channel Name.
To scan preset stations, press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than four seconds. PSC will appear on the display and you will hear a double beep. The radio will go to a preset station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again to stop scanning presets. The radio will only scan stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band. To store an equalization setting to a preset station perform the following: 1.
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button to select customized equalization settings designed for country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock, and classical. The radio will save separate AUTO EQ settings for each preset and source. ® If the radio is equipped with the Bose audio system, the equalization settings are either CUSTOM or TALK.
SCAN: Scan the stations within a PTY by performing the following: 1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode. P-TYPE and the last selected PTY will appear on the display. 2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a PTY. 3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and hold either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows for two seconds, and the radio will begin scanning the stations in the PTY. 4. Press either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows to stop scanning.
RDS Messages INFO (Information): If the current station has a message, INFO will appear on the display. Press this button to see the message. The message may display the artist, song title, call in phone numbers, etc. If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the message will appear every three seconds. To scroll through the message, press and release the INFO button. A new group of words will appear on the display after every press of this button.
If playing a CD-R, the sound quality may be reduced due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality of the music that has been recorded, and the way the CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is damaged, such as cracked, broken, or scratched, the CD will not play properly.
To insert multiple CDs, do the following: 1. Turn the ignition on. 2. Press and hold the LOAD button for two seconds. You will hear a beep and the indicator light, located to the right of the slot, will begin to flash and MULTI LOAD # will appear on the display. 3. Once the light stops flashing and turns green, INSERT CD # will appear on the display, load a CD. Insert the CD part way into the slot, label side up. The player will pull the CD in.
Once the CD is removed, the indicator light will begin flashing again and another CD will eject. To stop ejecting the CDs, press the LOAD or the eject button. If the CD is not removed, after 25 seconds, the CD will be automatically pulled back into the player. If CD is pushed back into the player, before the 25-second time period is complete, the player will sense an error and will try to eject the CD several times before stopping.
RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order, on one CD or on all of the CDs. To use random, do one of the following: • To play the tracks on the CD you are listening to in random order, press and release the RDM button. RANDOM ONE will appear on the display. Press RDM again to turn off random play. • To play the tracks on all of the CDs that are loaded in random order, press and hold RDM for more than two seconds.
INFO (Information): Press this knob to see how long the current track has been playing. To change the default on the display, track or elapsed time, press the knob until you see the display you want, then press and hold the knob until you hear a beep. The selected display will now be the default. BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a CD is playing. The inactive CD(s) will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.
Seek through the song list by using the SEEK or TYPE arrows. Seeking past the last saved track will return to the first saved track. To delete tracks from the song list, perform the following steps: 1. Turn the CD player on. 2. Press the SONG LIST button to turn song list on. S-LIST will appear on the display. 3. Press either SEEK or TYPE arrow to select the desired track to be deleted. 4. Press and hold the SONG LIST button for two seconds. When SONG LIST is pressed, one beep will be heard immediately.
CD Messages Listening to a DVD CHECK CD: If this message appears on the display and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons: • It is very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the CD should play. • You are driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smoother, the CD should play. • The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down. • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. • There may have been a problem while burning the CD.
XM Radio Messages Radio Display Message Condition Action Required XL (Explicit Language Channels) XL on the radio display, after the channel name, indicates content with explicit language. These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696). Updating Updating encryption code The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and no action is required. This process should take no longer than 30 seconds.
Radio Display Message Condition Action Required No Info Song/Program Title not available No song title information is available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly. No Info Category Name not available No category information is available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly. No Info No Text/Informational message available No text or informational messages are available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly.
Rear Seat Entertainment System Before You Drive Your vehicle may have a DVD Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system. The RSE system includes a DVD player, a video display screen, two sets of wireless headphones, and a remote control. The RSE system is for rear seat passengers only. The driver cannot safely view the video screen while driving and should not try to do so. Parental Control Headphones The RSE system includes two sets of wireless headphones. This button is located behind the video screen.
When using the wired headphones, if the front seat passengers play a CD in the Radio with Six-Disc CD (if equipped) or use XM™ Satellite Radio Service (if equipped), you will hear the audio for these sources, instead of the DVD or CD that is currently playing through the RSE. Notice: Do not store the headphones in heat or direct sunlight. This could damage the headphones and repairs will not be covered by your warranty. Keep the headphones stored in a cool, dry place.
Stereo RCA Jacks The RCA jacks are located behind the video screen. The RCA jacks allow audio and video signals to be connected from an auxiliary device such as a camcorder or a video game unit to the RSE system. Standard RCA cables, not included, are needed to connect the auxiliary device to the RCA jacks. The yellow connector inputs video and the red and white connectors input right and left audio. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper connection of the auxiliary device.
The RSE system will always transmit the audio signal by infrared to the wireless headphones, if there is audio available. See “Headphones” previously for more information. The RSE system is capable of outputting audio to the vehicle speakers by using the radio. The RSE system may be selected as an audio source on the radio if the RSE system power is on. Once the RSE system is selected as an audio source on the radio, adjust the speaker volume on the radio, if necessary.
DVD Player The DVD player is located in the overhead console. The DVD player can be controlled by the buttons on the DVD player and/or by the buttons on the remote control. See “Remote Control” later in this section for more information. The DVD player power may be turned on when the ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active.
SRCE (Source): Press this button to switch between the DVD player and an auxiliary source. c (Stop): Press this button to stop playing, rewinding, or fast forwarding a DVD or CD. Press this button twice to return to the beginning of the DVD. To change a feature back to the factory default setting, press this button to display the feature, then press and hold this button. The default setting will appear on the display.
Some DVDs will not allow fast forwarding or skipping of the copyright information or the previews. Some DVDs will begin playing after the previews have finished. If the DVD does not begin to play the main title, refer to the on-screen instructions. Stopping and Resuming Playback To stop playing a disc, press and release the stop button on the DVD player faceplate or the remote control. To resume playback, press the play/pause button on the DVD player faceplate or the remote control.
Remote Control Buttons z (Set-up Menu): Press this button to adjust the color, tint, brightness, contrast, display mode, and dynamic range compression. The dynamic range compression feature can be used to reduce loud audio and increase low audio produced by some DVDs. e (Audio): Press this button to display a menu that will only appear when a DVD is being played. The format and content of this function will vary for each disc.
t (Previous Track/Chapter): Press this button to return to the start of the current track or chapter. Press this button again to return to the previous track or chapter. This button may not work when the DVD is playing the copyright information or the previews. y (Main DVD Menu): Press this button to access the DVD menu. The DVD menu is different on every DVD. Use the up, down, left, and right arrow buttons to move the cursor around the DVD menu. After making a selection press the enter button.
[ (Fast Forward): Press this button to fast Battery Replacement forward the DVD or CD. To stop fast forwarding, press this button again. This button may not work when the DVD is playing the copyright information or the previews. To change the batteries, do the following: 1. Remove the battery compartment door located on the bottom of the remote control. s (Play/Pause): Press this button to start play of a DVD or CD. Press this button while a DVD or CD is playing to pause it.
Problem No power. Disc will not play. Recommended Action The ignition might not be in on or accessory. The parental control button might have been turned on. The power indicator light will flash. The system might be off. The parental control button might have been turned on. The power indicator light will flash. The system might be in auxiliary mode. The disc is upside down or is not compatible. Check the display mode settings in the display menu. The picture does not fill the screen.
Problem After stopping the player, I push Play but sometimes the DVD starts where I left off and sometimes at the beginning. The auxiliary source is running but there is no picture or sound. My disc is stuck in the player. The Load/Eject button does not work. Recommended Action If the stop button was pressed one time, the DVD player will resume playing where the DVD was stopped. If the stop button was pressed two times the DVD player will begin to play from the beginning of the DVD.
DVD Messages DVD Distortion The following errors may be displayed on the video screen: There may be an experience with audio distortion in the wireless headphones when operating cellular phones, scanners, CB radios, Global Positioning Systems (GPS)*, two-way radios, mobile fax, or walkie talkies. Disc Format Error: This message will be displayed if a disc is inserted upside down, if the disc is not readable, or if the format is not compatible with the DVD player.
Rear Seat Audio (RSA) This feature allows rear seat passengers to listen to any of the sources: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, or DVDs. However, the rear seat passengers can only control the sources that the front seat passengers are not listening to. For example, rear seat passengers may listen to and control cassette tapes, CDs, or DVDs through the headphones while the driver listens to the radio through the front speakers. The rear seat passengers have control of the volume for each set of headphones.
x SEEK w: When listening to FM1, FM2, or AM, press the up or the down arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there. This function is inactive if the front seat passengers are listening to the radio. When a CD is playing, press this button to go to the beginning of the CD. This function is inactive if the front seat passengers are listening to a CD. When a CD is playing in the six-disc CD changer, press this button to select the next CD, if multiple CDs are loaded.
Audio Steering Wheel Controls PROG (Program): Press this button to play a station you have programmed on the radio preset pushbuttons. The radio will only seek preset stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band. When a cassette tape is playing, press this button to play the other side of the tape. When a CD is playing in the CD changer, press this button to go to the next available CD, if multiple CDs are loaded.
Radio Reception XM™ Satellite Radio Service You may experience frequency interference and static during normal radio reception if items such as cellphone chargers, vehicle convenience accessories, and external electronic devices are plugged into the accessory power outlet. If there is interference or static, unplug the item from the accessory power outlet. XM™ Satellite Radio Service gives digital radio reception from coast-to-coast in the 48 contiguous United States, and in Canada.
The tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use. The radio may display CLEAN to indicate that the tape player has been used for 50 hours without resetting the tape clean timer. If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but it should be cleaned as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player.
A non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head can be used. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject on its own. A non-scrubbing action cleaner may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner. The use of a non-scrubbing action, dry-type cleaning cassette is not recommended. Care of Your CDs and DVDs After the player is cleaned, press and hold the eject button for five seconds to reset the CLEAN indicator.
Fixed Mast Antenna Chime Level Adjustment The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, replace it. The radio is used to adjust the vehicle’s chime level. To change the volume level of the chime, press and hold pushbutton 6 with the ignition on and the radio power off. The volume level will change from the normal level to loud, and LOUD will appear on the radio display.
✍ NOTES 354
Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ............................................ 356 Defensive Driving ...................................... 356 Drunken Driving ........................................ 357 Control of a Vehicle .................................. 360 Braking ...................................................... 360 Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) .................. 361 Braking in Emergencies ............................. 363 Traction Assist System (TAS) ..
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. See Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone on page 22. 356 {CAUTION: Defensive driving really means “Be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads, or expressways, it means “Always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes.
Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It is the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: • Judgment • Muscular Coordination • Vision • Attentiveness Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving.
According to the American Medical Association, a 180 lb (82 kg) person who drinks three 12 ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4 ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces (45 ml) of liquors like whiskey, gin, or vodka. It is the amount of alcohol that counts.
But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent. Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of 0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a collision.
Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering, and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road. Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Sometimes, as when you are driving on snow or ice, it is easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can lose control of your vehicle.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts — heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking — rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. The brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. The brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.
ABS can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions. This can help you steer around the obstacle while braking hard. Let us say the road is wet and you are driving safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here is what happens with ABS: A computer senses that wheels are slowing down.
Remember: ABS does not change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you will not have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have ABS. Traction Assist System (TAS) Using ABS Your vehicle may have a Traction Assist System (TAS) that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions.
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the TAS begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may re-engage the cruise control. See Cruise Control on page 217. When the traction off light is on, the TAS is off and will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.
See Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out on page 407 and If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 406. To turn the system on or off, press the TAS on/off button located on the instrument panel. If you used the button to turn the system off, the traction off light will come on and stay on. You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing the button again. The traction off light should go off. Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle’s performance.
It is recommended to use this system as follows: • For superior ride comfort in an unloaded vehicle the button should be out. The indicator light will not be lit. This button position indicates NORMAL levels of ride control or damping. • For superior ride comfort when trailering, fully loaded, driving off-road, or when personal preferences demand more control, the button should be pressed in with the indicator light lit. This switch position indicates FIRM levels of ride control or damping.
Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Steering Tips It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here is why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves.
Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking — if you can stop in time. But sometimes you cannot; there is not room. That is the time for evasive action — steering around the problem.
Off-Road Recovery Passing You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you are driving. The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again.
• Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings, and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually indicates it is all right to pass, providing the road ahead is clear. Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic. • Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you are awaiting an opportunity.
• Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time Skidding on two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the next vehicle. • Do not overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly. Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it may be slowing down or starting to turn. • If you are being passed, make it easy for the following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease a little to the right. In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.
If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs. Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel, or other material is on the road. For safety, you will want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions.
If you think you will need some more ground clearance at the front of your vehicle, you can remove the front bumper lower air dam. The following steps must be performed on each of the push-pins to remove the air dam: 1. Insert a tool into the push-pin slot and pull downward until the push-pin snaps loose. The front bumper lower air dam is held in place by a series of push-pins located around the lower edge of the front bumper. The push-pins are accessible from underneath the front bumper.
2. While continuing to pull downward on the push-pin, squeeze and turn the expandable end of the push-pin with a tool until it releases from the retainer. 3. Pull the push-pins and lower dam assembly away from the retainers until the lower dam is free. 374 When you are back on roads, though, be sure to replace the air dam.
To reinstall the lower air dam, do the following: 1. Line up each push-pin with its intended retainer and push the washer portion of the push-pin toward the retainer until it locks into place. 2. Push the flat end of the push-pin toward the retainer until it locks into place, making sure each is secure. Before You Go Off-Roading There are some things to do before you go out. For example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance and service work done.
Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving {CAUTION: • Cargo on the load floor piled higher than the seatbacks can be thrown forward during a sudden stop. You or your passengers could be injured. Keep cargo below the top of the seatbacks. • Unsecured cargo on the load floor can be tossed about when driving over rough terrain. You or your passengers can be struck by flying objects. Secure the cargo properly. • Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over.
Environmental Concerns Traveling to Remote Areas Off-road driving can provide wholesome and satisfying recreation. However, it also raises environmental concerns. We recognize these concerns and urge every off-roader to follow these basic rules for protecting the environment: • Always use established trails, roads, and areas that have been specially set aside for public off-road recreational driving; obey all posted regulations.
Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving It is a good idea to practice in an area that is safe and close to home before you go into the wilderness. Off-road driving does require some new and different driving skills. Here is what we mean. Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Your eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen for unusual tire or engine sounds.
Scanning the Terrain Off-road driving can take you over many different kinds of terrain. You need to be familiar with the terrain and its many different features. Here are some things to consider. Surface Conditions: Off-roading can take you over hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow, or ice. Each of these surfaces affects the steering, acceleration, and braking of your vehicle in different ways.
When you drive over bumps, rocks, or other obstacles, your wheels can leave the ground. If this happens, even with one or two wheels, you cannot control the vehicle as well or at all. Because you will be on an unpaved surface, it is especially important to avoid sudden acceleration, sudden turns, or sudden braking. In a way, off-road driving requires a different kind of alertness from driving on paved roads and highways. There are no road signs, posted speed limits, or signal lights.
Approaching a Hill • Is there a straight path up or down the hill so When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it is one of those hills that is just too steep to climb, descend, or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very small hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant incline with only a small change in elevation where you can easily see all the way to the top.
Driving Uphill Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you need to take some special steps. • Use a low gear and get a firm grip on the steering wheel. • Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain your speed. Do not use more power than you need, because you do not want your wheels to start spinning or sliding. • Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible. If the path twists and turns, you might want to find another route.
Q: What should I do if my vehicle stalls, or is about to stall, and I cannot make it up the hill? A: If this happens, there are some things you should do, and there are some things you must not do. First, here is what you should do: • Push the brake pedal to stop the vehicle and keep it from rolling backwards. Also, apply the parking brake. • If the engine is still running, shift the transmission to REVERSE (R), release the parking brake, and slowly back down the hill in REVERSE (R).
Q: Suppose, after stalling, I try to back down the hill and decide I just cannot do it. What should I do? A: Set the parking brake, put the transmission in PARK (P), or the manual transmission in FIRST (1), and turn off the engine. Leave the vehicle and go get some help. Exit on the uphill side and stay clear of the path the vehicle would take if it rolled downhill. Do not shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL when you leave the vehicle. Leave it in some gear.
Driving Downhill When off-roading takes you downhill, you will want to consider a number of things: • How steep is the downhill? Will I be able to maintain vehicle control? • What is the surface like? Smooth? Rough? Slippery? Hard-packed dirt? Gravel? • Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts? Logs? Boulders? • What is at the bottom of the hill? Is there a hidden creek bank or even a river bottom with large rocks? If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to keep your vehicle headed straight d
Q: Are there some things I should not do when driving down a hill? A: Yes! These are important because if you ignore them you could lose control and have a serious accident. • When driving downhill, avoid turns that take you across the incline of the hill. A hill that is not too steep to drive down may be too steep to drive across. You could roll over if you do not drive straight down.
Driving Across an Incline Sooner or later, an off-road trail will probably go across the incline of a hill. If this happens, you have to decide whether to try to drive across the incline. Here are some things to consider: • A hill that can be driven straight up or down may be too steep to drive across. When you go straight up or down a hill, the length of the wheel base — the distance from the front wheels to the rear wheels — reduces the likelihood the vehicle will tumble end over end.
Q: What if I am driving across an incline that is not too steep, but I hit some loose gravel and start to slide downhill. What should I do? A: If you feel your vehicle starting to slide sideways, turn downhill. This should help straighten out the vehicle and prevent the side slipping. However, a much better way to prevent this is to get out and “walk the course” so you know what the surface is like before you drive it.
Driving in Mud, Sand, Snow, or Ice When you drive in mud, snow, or sand, your wheels will not get good traction. You cannot accelerate as quickly, turning is more difficult, and you will need longer braking distances. If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, see Four-Wheel Drive on page 153 for transfer case mode selection. It is best to use a low gear when you are in mud —the deeper the mud, the lower the gear. In really deep mud, the idea is to keep your vehicle moving so you do not get stuck.
Driving in Water Heavy rain can mean flash flooding, and flood waters demand extreme caution. {CAUTION: Find out how deep the water is before you drive through it. If it is deep enough to cover the wheel hubs, axles, or exhaust pipe, do not try it — you probably will not get through. Also, water that deep can damage the axle and other vehicle parts. Driving through rushing water can be dangerous. Deep water can sweep your vehicle downstream and you and your passengers could drown.
After Off-Road Driving Remove any brush or debris that has collected on the underbody, chassis, or under the hood. These accumulations can be a fire hazard. After operation in mud or sand, have the brake linings cleaned and checked. These substances can cause glazing and uneven braking. Check the body structure, steering, suspension, wheels, tires, and exhaust system for damage. Also, check the fuel lines and cooling system for any leakage.
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to re-adjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare, as from a driver who does not lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps, slow down a little. Avoid staring directly into the approaching headlamps. Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Keep the windshield and all the glass on your vehicle clean — inside and out.
And, if your tires do not have much tread left, you will get even less traction. It is always wise to go slower and be cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, see Four-Wheel Drive on page 153 for transfer case mode selection. {CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They may not work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side.
Hydroplaning Driving Through Deep Standing Water Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you are going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your engine.
Driving Through Flowing Water Some Other Rainy Weather Tips • Turn on your low-beam headlamps — not just {CAUTION: Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. If you try to drive through flowing water, as you might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can be carried away. As little as six inches of flowing water can carry away a smaller vehicle. If this happens, you and other vehicle occupants could drown.
City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You will want to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. 396 Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: • Know the best way to get to where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-country trip. • Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities.
Freeway Driving The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane. At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic.
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use your turn signal. Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your shoulder to make sure there is not another vehicle in your blind spot. Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move slightly slower at night. When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit.
Here are some things you can check before a trip: • Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside? • Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape? • Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? • Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? • Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble-free trip.
Hill and Mountain Roads If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you are planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. See Off-Road Driving on page 372 for information about driving off-road. • Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system, and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads.
• Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane {CAUTION: Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill. roads in hills or mountains. Do not swing wide or cut across the center of the road.
Winter Driving Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth, and reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet, or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.
Whatever the condition — smooth ice, packed, blowing, or loose snow — drive with caution. If you have the Traction Assist System (TAS), it will improve your ability to accelerate when driving on a slippery road. But you can turn the TAS off if you ever need to. You should turn the TAS off if your vehicle ever gets stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow. See If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 406.
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) improves your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have ABS, you will want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) on page 361. • Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. • Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that is covered with ice.
{CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You cannot see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow does not collect there. You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.
You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for a while. If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can.
Notice: Spinning the wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting the transmission back and forth, you can destroy the transmission. For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see Tire Chains on page 562. Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out First, turn the steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around the front wheels. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, shift into Four-Wheel High.
Recovery Hooks {CAUTION: These hooks, when used, are under a lot of force. Always pull the vehicle straight out. Never pull on the hooks at a sideways angle. The hooks could break off and you or others could be injured from the chain or cable snapping back. Notice: Never use recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged and it would not be covered by warranty. Your vehicle may have recovery hooks at the front of the vehicle.
Loading Your Vehicle Tire and Loading Information Label It is very important to know how much weight your vehicle can carry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo, and all nonfactory-installed options. Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it was designed to carry, the Tire and Loading Information label and the Certification/Tire label.
The Tire and Loading Information label also shows the size of the original equipment tires (C) and the recommended cold tire inflation pressures (D). For more information on tires and inflation see Tires on page 543 and Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 551. There is also important loading information on the vehicle Certification/Tire label. It tells you the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axles.
Example 1 Item A B C Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 1 = Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) × 2 = Available Occupant and Cargo Weight = Example 2 Total Item 1,000 lbs (453 kg) A 300 lbs (136 kg) B 700 lbs (317 kg) C Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 2 = Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) × 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Total 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 750 lbs (136 kg) 250 lbs (113 kg) 411
Certification/Tire Label Example 3 Item A B C Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 3 = Subtract Occupant Weight 200 lbs (91 kg) × 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Total 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 1000 lbs (453 kg) 0 lbs (0 kg) Refer to your vehicle’s tire and loading information label for specific information about your vehicle’s capacity weight and seating positions. The combined weight of the driver, passengers, and cargo should never exceed your vehicle’s capacity weight.
To find out the actual loads on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. Be sure to spread out your load equally on both sides of the centerline. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle. The Certification/Tire label also contains important information about your Front Axle Reserve Capacity.
If you put things inside your vehicle — like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else — they go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they will keep going. CAUTION: (Continued) • Do not leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. • When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can. {CAUTION: • Do not leave a seat folded down unless you need to.
Two-Tiered Loading Add-On Equipment By positioning four 2 inches (5 cm) by 6 inches (15 cm) wooden planks across the width of the pickup box, you can create an upper load platform. The planks must be inserted in the pickup box depressions. The length of the planks must allow for at least a 3/4 inch (2 cm) bearing surface on each end of the plank. When you carry removable items, you may need to put a limit on how many people you carry inside your vehicle.
Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment Before installing a snow plow on your vehicle, here are some things you will need to know: Notice: If your vehicle does not have the snow plow prep package, adding a plow can damage your vehicle, and the repairs would not be covered by warranty. Unless your vehicle was built to carry a snow plow, do not add one to your vehicle.
Say, for example, you have a 700 lb (318 kg) snow plow. The total weight of all occupants and cargo inside the cab should not exceed 300 lb (135 kg). This means that you may only be able to carry one passenger. But, even this may be too much if you have got other equipment already adding to the weight of your vehicle. Here are some guidelines for safely carrying a snow plow on your vehicle: • Make sure the weight on the front and rear axles does not exceed the axle rating for each.
Q: What is front axle reserve capacity, and how do I calculate it? A: Front axle reserve capacity is the difference In order to calculate the amount of weight any front accessory, such as a snow plow, is adding to the front axle, use the following formula: between your front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) and the front axle weight of your vehicle with full fuel and passengers. Basically, it is the amount of weight you can add to your front axle before reaching your front GAWR.
For example, adding a 700 lb (318 kg) snow plow actually adds more than 700 lbs (318 kg) to the front axle. Using the formula, if the snow plow is 4 ft (122 cm) in front of the front axle and the wheel base is 10 ft (305 cm), then: W = 700 lb (318 kg) A = 4 ft (122 cm) W.B. = 10 ft (305 cm) (W x (A + W.B.))/W.B. = (700 x (4 + 10))/10 = 980 lbs (445 kg) So, if your truck’s front axle reserve capacity is more than 980 lbs (445 kg), you could add the snow plow without exceeding the front GAWR.
Q: What is total vehicle reserve capacity? A: This is the difference between your GVWR and the weight of your truck with full fuel and passengers. It is the amount of weight you can add to your vehicle before reaching your GVWR. Keep in mind that reserve capacity numbers are intended as a guide when selecting the amount of equipment or cargo your truck can carry. If you are unsure of your vehicle’s front, rear, or total weight, go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle.
Truck-Camper Loading Information A vehicle specific Truck-Camper Loading information label is attached to the inside of your vehicle’s glove box. This label will tell you if your vehicle can carry a slide-in camper, how much of a load your vehicle can carry, and how to correctly spread out the load. Also, it will help you match the right slide-in camper to your vehicle.
Here is an example of proper truck and camper match: You must weigh any accessories or other equipment that you add to your vehicle. Then, subtract this extra weight from the CWR. This extra weight may shorten the center of gravity zone of your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. If your slide-in camper and its load weighs less than the CWR, the center of gravity zone for your vehicle may be larger. Your dealer can help you make a good vehicle-camper match and help you determine the CWR. A.
If your vehicle has gone over the weight ratings, move or take out some things until all the weight falls below the ratings. Secure loose items to prevent weight shifts that could affect the balance of your vehicle. When the truck-camper is loaded, drive to a scale and weigh the front and the rear wheels separately to determine axle loads. Individual axle loads should not exceed either of the GAWRs. The total of the front and rear axle loads should not exceed your vehicle’s GVWR.
Recreational Vehicle Towing • Do you have the proper towing equipment? Recreational vehicle towing means towing your vehicle behind another vehicle – such as behind a motorhome. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as dinghy towing, towing your vehicle will all four wheels on the ground, and dolly towing, towing your vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a “dolly”.
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles {CAUTION: Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P) for an automatic transmission, or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is firmly set before you shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL. Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle: 1.
Dolly Towing Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Front Towing (Front Wheels Off the Ground) Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Notice: If you tow a two-wheel-drive vehicle with the rear wheels on the ground, the transmission could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Never tow your vehicle with the rear wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive vehicles should not be towed with the rear wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive transmissions have no provisions for internal lubrication while being towed.
{CAUTION: Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground) Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P) for an automatic transmission, or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is firmly set before you shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL. 6. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle from the rear: 1. Drive the vehicle onto the dolly. 2. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 169 3. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission in FIRST (1). 4. Follow the dolly manufacturer’s instructions to attach and secure the vehicle being towed to the dolly and then the loaded dolly to the tow vehicle.
Towing a Trailer Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See New Vehicle Break-In on page 134 for more information. {CAUTION: If you do not use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well — or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section.
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points: • There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. • Consider using a sway control. See “Hitches” later in this section. • Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven.
Tow/Haul is designed to be most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75 percent of the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). See “Weight of the Trailer” later in the section. Tow/Haul is most useful under the following driving conditions: • When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load through rolling terrain. • When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load in stop and go traffic.
Use one of the following charts to determine how much your vehicle can weigh, based upon your vehicle model and options. C-1500 Regular Cab Standard Box (2WD)* 4300 V6 (Auto) 4300 V6 (Manual) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 3.23 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg) 3.23 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) 3.23 6,400 lbs (2 903 kg) 4800 V8 3.73 7,400 lbs (3 357 kg) 3.23 7,400 lbs (3 357 kg) 5300 V8 3.73 8,400 lbs (3 810 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up maximum.
C-1500 HD Crew Cab Standard Box (2WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 3.73 8,300 lbs (3 765 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 4.10 10,300 lbs (4 672 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 2,500 lbs (1 133 kg) maximum. 6000 V8 C-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (2WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 3.23 7,000 lbs (3 175 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 448 kg) 3.
C-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (2WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 3.23 6,200 lbs (2 812 kg) 3.73 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) 3.23 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) 5300 V8 3.73 8,200 lbs (3 719 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up maximum. 4800 V8 C-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (2WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 3.23 5,800 lbs (2 631 kg) 3.73 6,800 lbs (3 084 kg) 3.42 6,800 lbs (3 084 kg) 5300 V8 3.
K-1500 Regular Cab Standard Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 3.42 8,100 lbs (3 674 kg) 3.73 8,100 lbs (3 674 kg) 4.10 9,100 lbs (4 128 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up maximum. *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer rating limited to 7,300 lbs (3 311 kg). 5300 V8 K-1500 Extended Cab Standard Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 13,000 lbs (5 902 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 902 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 356 kg) to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) GCWR 3.
K-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 3.42/3.73 7,700 lbs (3 493 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 902 kg) 4.10 8,700 lbs (3 946 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) *This model is neither designed nor intended to tow fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers. 5300 V8 K-1500 Crew Cab Short Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight Box (4WD)* 3.42 7,400 lbs (3 357 kg) 5300 V8 3.73 7,400 lbs (3 357 kg) 4.10 8,400 lbs (3 810 kg) 6000 V8 4.
K-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (4WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 6,500 lbs (2 948 kg) 3.42 6,500 lbs (2 948 kg) 3.73 7,500 lbs (3 402 kg) 4.10 7,500 lbs (3 402 kg) 3.42 7,500 lbs (3 402 kg) 5300 V8 3.73 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg) 4.10 *This vehicle has insufficient payload for fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailering.
C-2500 Crew Cab Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR Standard Box HD (2WD)* Axle Ratio 6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 15,400 lbs (6 985 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,000 lbs (1 361 kg) maximum. *Trailer rating limited to 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch. C-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 4.10 10,500 lbs (4 763 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 3.
C-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 3.73 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 3.73 13,500 lbs (6 123 kg) 8100 V8 4.10 15,500 lbs (7 031 kg) 6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 15,100 lbs (6 849 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer (1 361 kg) maximum. *Trailer rating limited to 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch. K-2500 Extended Cab Maximum Trailer Weight Standard Box HD (4WD)* Axle Ratio 6000 V8 4.
K-2500 Crew Cab Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR Standard Box HD (4WD)* 6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 14,200 lbs (6 441 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,000 lbs (1 361 kg) maximum. *Trailer rating limited to 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch. K-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (4WD)* 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 4.10 10,300 lbs (4 672 kg) 3.73 13,800 lbs (6 260 kg) 8100 V8 4.
K-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (4WD)* 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight 4.10 9,700 lbs (4 400 kg) 3.73 13,200 lbs (5 987 kg) 8100 V8 4.10 14,600 lbs (6 622 kg) 6.6L V8 Diesel 3.73 13,200 lbs (5 987 kg) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer (1 361 kg) maximum. *Trailer rating limited to 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch.
C-3500 Extended Cab Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (2WD)* 6.6L V8 Diesel (Dual 3.73 15,100 lbs (6 849 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) Rear Wheels) (Manual) 6.6L V8 Diesel (Dual Rear Wheels) 3.73 16,600 lbs (7 530 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg) (Automatic) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,500 lbs (1 587 kg) maximum. *Trailer rating limited to 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch.
K-3500 Regular Cab (4WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 6000 V8 Single Rear Wheel 4.10 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 6000 V8 Dual Rear Wheel 4.10 9,800 lbs (4 445 kg) 16,000 lbs (7 257 kg) 8100 V8 Single Rear Wheel 4.10 15,600 lbs (7 076 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) 8100 V8 Dual Rear Wheel 4.10 15,400 lbs (6 985 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) 6.6L V8 Single Rear Wheel 3.73 15,400 lbs (6 985 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) 6.6L V8 Dual Rear Wheel 3.
K-3500 Extended Cab (4WD)* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 6.6L V8 Dual Rear Wheel 3.73 14,800 lbs (6 713 kg) 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) (Manual) 6.6L V8 Dual Rear Wheel 3.73 16,300 lbs (7 394 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg) (Automatic) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,500 lbs (1 587 kg) maximum. *Trailer rating limited to 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch.
The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and trailer including any passengers, cargo, equipment and conversions. The GCWR for your vehicle should not be exceeded. You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at the address listed in your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information Booklet.
for your vehicle. See “Weight of the Trailer”, and “Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Trailering” in this section. Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight for your vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle. This will help reduce the effect of trailer tongue weight on the rear axle.
Consider the following example: A vehicle model base weight is 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg); 2,800 lbs (1 270 kg) at the front axle and 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg) at the rear axle. It has a GVWR of 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg), a RGAWR of 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) and a GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg).
The effect of tongue weight is about 1.5 times the actual weight. Dividing the 900 lbs (408 kg) by 1.5 leaves you with being able to handle only 600 lbs (272 kg) of tongue weight. Since tongue weight is usually at least 10 percent of total loaded trailer weight, you can expect that the largest trailer your vehicle can properly handle is 6,000 lbs (2 721 kg). It is important that you make sure your vehicle does not exceed any of its ratings — GCWR, GVWR, RGAWR, Maximum Trailer Rating or Tongue Weight.
Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight Carrying Hitches If you use a step-bumper hitch, the bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper. If you will be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg) be sure to use a properly mounted weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when driving.
The hitch should be located in the pickup bed so that it’s centerline is over or slightly in front of the rear axle. Take care that it is not so far forward that it will contact the back of the cab in sharp turns. This is especially important for short box pickups. Trailer pin box extensions and sliding fifth wheel hitch assemblies can help this condition. There should be at least six inches of clearance between the top of the pickup box and the bottom of the trailer shelf that extends over the box.
Driving with a Trailer CAUTION: {CAUTION: (Continued) • If exhaust does come into your vehicle If you have a rear-most window open and you pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle. You cannot see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness or death. See Engine Exhaust on page 174. To maximize your safety when towing a trailer: • Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, and make necessary repairs before starting on your trip.
Before you start, check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop. When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not.
Parking on Hills {CAUTION: You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into PARK (P) yet for an automatic transmission, or into gear for a manual transmission. 2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels. 3.
CAUTION: (Continued) When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill Always put the automatic transmission shift lever fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. If you have a manual transmission, turn the engine off and firmly set the parking brake. 1.
Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) on page 617 for more information. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly.
Heavy-DutyTrailer Wiring Harness Package • • • • Light Green: Back-up Lamps Light Blue: CHMSL* Red: Battery Feed** Dark Blue: Trailer Brake *The Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) wire is tied next to the trailer wiring harness for use with a trailer, slide-in camper or cap. **If you are charging a remote (non-vehicle) battery, press the tow/haul mode button located at the end of the shift lever. This will boost the vehicle system voltage and properly charge the battery.
Camper/Fifth-Wheel Trailer Wiring Package The eight-wire camper harness is located under the front edge of the pickup box on the driver’s side of the vehicle, attached to the frame bracket. A connector will have to be added to the wiring harness which connects to the camper.
Electric Brake Control Jumper {CAUTION: Be sure to use only the correct trailer brake harness, the one intended for use on your vehicle. If you use some other trailer brake harness, even if it seems to fit, your trailer brakes may not work at all. You could have a crash in which you or others could be injured. Use only the trailer brake harness intended for your vehicle. If it is no longer available to you, be sure to get a proper replacement from your dealer.
Auxiliary Battery The auxiliary battery provision can be used to supply electrical power to additional equipment that you may choose to add, such as a slide-in camper. If your vehicle has this provision, this relay will be located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle, next to the auxiliary battery. Notice: Leaving electrical equipment on for extended periods will drain the battery.
Power Take-Off (PTO) Before using a Power Take-Off (PTO), if equipped, refer to the manufacturer’s or installer’s instructions. To engage a PTO on a vehicle with a manual transmission do the following: 1. Hold the clutch pedal down. 2. Set the parking brake. 3. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL. 4. Engage the PTO. Refer to the manufacturer’s or installer’s for instructions on electrically engaged PTOs. 5.
Preset Mode: PTO speed control mode is used for stationary applications. (PTO will remain engaged while mobile in the preset mode, however PTO set and resume speed controls will be inoperative.) This mode provides a default standby speed of 800 or 850 rpm (depending on the engine/transmission combination) and two default PTO control speeds which follow: 1. PTO Set Speed of 1,250 rpm, or 2. PTO Resume Speed of 1,700 rpm.
All engine speed values listed above are factory preset values. With the exception of the TCC lockup speed (1,100 rpm) and the “tap” increment (100 rpm), all of these values are programmable and can be adjusted by your dealer or body upfitter. If the PTO software settings do not match the settings shown here, then they may have already been altered in order to satisfy the requirements of the installed PTO system and body equipment. When the PTO switch is turned on, the engine is limited to 2,200 rpms.
✍ NOTES 464
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Service ........................................................ 468 Accessories and Modifications ................... 468 California Proposition 65 Warning .............. 469 Doing Your Own Service Work .................. 469 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle .......................................... 470 Fuel ............................................................. 470 Gasoline Octane ........................................
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Noise Control System ................................. 531 Tampering with Noise Control System Prohibited .............................................. 531 Bulb Replacement ....................................... 532 Halogen Bulbs ........................................... 532 Headlamps ................................................ 533 Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Daytime Running Lamps ........................ 534 Roof Marker Lamps ..........................
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Washing Your Vehicle ............................... 592 Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses ................ 593 Finish Care ............................................... 593 Windshield and Wiper Blades .................... 594 Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels ......... 594 Tires ......................................................... 595 Sheet Metal Damage ................................. 595 Finish Damage ..........................................
Service Accessories and Modifications Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you will go to your dealer for all your service needs. You will get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people.
California Proposition 65 Warning Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain and/or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and systems (including some inside the vehicle), many fluids, and some component wear by-products contain and/or emit these chemicals.
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. Fuel If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see “Diesel Fuel Requirements and Fuel System” in the DURAMAX® Diesel Supplement. For vehicles with gasoline engines, please read this.
If your vehicle has the 6.0L V8 engine (VIN Code N), use premium unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating of 91 or higher. You may also use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher, but your vehicle’s acceleration may be slightly reduced, and you may notice a slight audible knocking noise, commonly referred to as spark knock. If the octane is less than 87, you may notice a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible.
Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing your emission control system to work properly. In most cases, you should not have to add anything to your fuel. However, some gasolines contain only the minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) shows the code letter or number that identifies your engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of the instrument panel. See Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on page 598. If your vehicle has the 5.3L V8 engine (VIN Code Z only), you may use either regular unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85); also see Fuel on page 470.
E85 has less energy per gallon than gasoline, so you will need to refill your fuel tank more often when using E85 than when you are using gasoline. See Filling the Tank on page 474. Notice: Some additives are not compatible with E85 fuel and may harm your fuel system. Damage caused by additives would not be covered by your new vehicle warranty. Do not use additives with E85 fuel. Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Do not use fuel containing methanol.
{CAUTION: If you spill fuel and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged fuel door on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks. It will require more effort to turn the fuel cap on the last turn as you tighten it. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 258. The TIGHTEN FUEL CAP message will be displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC) if the fuel cap is not properly installed.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container {CAUTION: CAUTION: (Continued) • Bring the fill nozzle in contact with Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others: • Dispense gasoline only into approved containers.
Checking Things Under the Hood {CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan. 478 {CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.
Hood Release To open the hood do the following: 1. Pull the handle with this symbol on it. It is located inside the vehicle to the lower left of the steering wheel. 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release located near the center of the grille. 3. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then pull down the hood and close it firmly.
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the 4.
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 491. B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant on page 502 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap on page 505. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 491. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 486. E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (If Equipped).
When you open the hood on the 5.3L V8 engine (4.8L and 6.
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 491. B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant on page 502 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap on page 505. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 491. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 486. E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (If Equipped).
When you open the hood on the 8.
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 491. B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant on page 502 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap on page 505. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 491. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 486. E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (If Equipped).
Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) Checking Engine Oil If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see “Engine Oil” in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement. It is a good idea to check the engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. If the CHECK OIL LEVEL light appears on the instrument cluster, except vehicles that have the 4.3L engine, it means you need to check the engine oil level right away.
When to Add Engine Oil All Except 8.1L Engine 8.1L Engine If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, you will need to add at least one quart/liter of oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications on page 609. Notice: Do not add too much oil.
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50. Oils meeting these requirements should also have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Look for two things: • GM6094M Your vehicle’s engine requires oil meeting GM Standard GM6094M. You should look for and use only an oil that meets GM Standard GM6094M.
If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), it is recommended that you use either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for the engine at extremely low temperatures. Engine Oil Additives Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard GM6094M are all you will need for good performance and engine protection.
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change the engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. Any time the oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change the oil prior to a CHANGE ENGINE OIL message being turned on, reset the system. To reset the Engine Oil Life System, do the following: 1. Turn the ignition key to RUN with the engine off. 2.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see “Pickup Models” under “Engine Air Cleaner/Filter” in the DURAMAX® Diesel Supplement for the correct inspection and replacement procedures. If your vehicle has an air filter restriction indicator, it lets you know when the engine air cleaner/filter needs to be replaced.
How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Vehicles With an Air Filter Restriction Indicator Replacing the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter and Resetting the Air Filter Restriction Indicator Locate the air filter restriction indicator on the engine air cleaner/filter cover. When the indicator turns black or is in the red/orange “change” zone, replace the filter and reset the indicator. See the steps following to replace the engine air cleaner/filter and to reset the air filter restriction indicator.
6. Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws. 7. Reset the air filter restriction indicator, if the vehicle has one, by pressing the button at the end of the indicator. {CAUTION: 3. Remove the engine air cleaner/filter from the housing. Care should be taken not to dislodge dirt in the air cleaner. 4. Clean the engine air cleaner/filter sealing surfaces and the housing. Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (Allison Transmission®) When to Check and Change Automatic Transmission Fluid A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change the fluid and filter at the intervals listed in Additional Required Services (Gasoline Engine) on page 621, and be sure to use the transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 629.
3. With your foot on the brake pedal, run the engine for at least once minute and shift to DRIVE (D). Then shift to NEUTRAL (N) and then REVERSE (R) to fill the hydraulic system. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). 4. Allow the engine to run at idle (500–800 rpm). Slowly release the brake pedal.
Hot Check Procedure The fluid must be hot to ensure an accurate check. The fluid level rises as the temperature increases. 1. Operate the transmission in DRIVE (D) range until the normal operating temperature of 160°F (71°C) to 200°F (93°C) is reached. 2. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. 3. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again. Repeat the check procedure to verify the reading. 4.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (Except Allison Transmission®) When to Check and Change Automatic Transmission Fluid A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat.
A cold fluid check can be made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off, but this is used only as a reference. Let the engine run at idle for five minutes if outside temperatures are 50°F (10°C) or more. If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), you may have to idle the engine longer. Should the fluid level be low during this cold check, you must check the fluid hot before adding fluid. Checking the fluid hot will give you a more accurate reading of the fluid level.
How to Add Automatic Transmission Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 629. 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the COLD area, below the cross-hatched area, for a cold check or in the HOT or cross-hatched area for a hot check. Be sure to keep the dipstick pointed down to get an accurate reading. 4.
Manual Transmission Fluid When to Check Manual Transmission Fluid A good time to have your manual transmission fluid checked is when the engine oil is changed. See Additional Required Services (Gasoline Engine) on page 621 to find out when to change your transmission fluid. Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place, and the transmission is cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the transmission case.
How to Add Manual Transmission Fluid Here is how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 629. 1. Remove the filler plug. 2. Add fluid at the filler plug hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the filler plug hole. 3. Install the filler plug. Be sure the plug is fully seated. Hydraulic Clutch The hydraulic clutch linkage in your vehicle is self-adjusting.
How to Check and Add Fluid The proper fluid should be added if the level does not reach the bottom of the diaphragm when it is in place in the reservoir. See the instructions on the reservoir cap. Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for five years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only DEX-COOL® extended life coolant.
What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which will not damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you do not need to add anything else. {CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture.
Checking Coolant The coolant surge tank is located in the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 480 for more information on location. {CAUTION: Turning the surge tank pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. Never turn the surge tank pressure cap — even a little — when the engine and radiator are hot. 504 The vehicle must be on a level surface.
Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture at the surge tank, but only when the engine is cool. See Cooling System on page 508. {CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. When replacing the pressure cap, make sure it is hand-tight and fully seated.
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: {CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood. If you keep driving when the vehicles engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine The ENGINE COOLANT HOT message, along with a low coolant condition, can indicate a serious problem. If you get an engine overheat warning, but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: • Climb a long hill on a hot day. • Stop after high-speed driving. • Idle for long periods in traffic. • Tow a trailer. See Towing a Trailer on page 429.
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode (V8 Engines Only) If an overheated engine condition exists and the REDUCED ENGINE POWER message is displayed, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, you will notice a loss in power and engine performance. This operating mode allows your vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency.
{CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan. All Other Engines A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap C. Engine Cooling Fan If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. The vehicle should be parked on a level surface. Check the coolant level after the system cools down.
The coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark. If it is not, you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the cooling system. {CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned. 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.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank for Gasoline Engines If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see “Cooling System” in the DURAMAX® Diesel Supplement for the proper coolant fill procedure. If you have not found a problem yet, check to see if coolant is visible in the surge tank.
{CAUTION: {CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and a proper coolant.
2. Then keep turning the pressure cap slowly, and remove it. 3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mixture, to the FULL COLD mark. 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower.
Engine Fan Noise If your vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan, when the clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster to provide more air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the fan is spinning slower and the clutch is not fully engaged. This improves fuel economy and reduces fan noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing, and/or high outside temperatures, the fan speed increases as the clutch more fully engages, so you may hear an increase in fan noise.
Power Steering Fluid See Engine Compartment Overview on page 480 for reservoir location. How to Check Power Steering Fluid To check the power steering fluid, do the following: 1. Turn the key off and let the engine compartment cool down. 2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean. 3. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. 4. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. 5. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid Your vehicle has a low washer fluid message that comes on when the washer fluid is low. The message is displayed for 15 seconds at the start of each ignition cycle.
Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 480 for the location of the reservoir. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system.
Checking Brake Fluid You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap. Just look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should be above MIN. If it is not, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak. After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make sure the level is above the MIN but not over the MAX mark. What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only.
Brake Wear Your vehicle has front disc brakes and may have rear drum brakes or rear disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving, except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly. {CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes will not work well. That could lead to an accident.
Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system — for example, when your brake linings wear down and you need new ones put in — be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you do not, your brakes may no longer work properly.
Jump Starting If your vehicle’s battery (or batteries) has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely. {CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: • They contain acid that can burn you. • They contain gas that can explode or ignite. • They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.
3. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you do not want. You would not be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure.
5. Open the hoods and locate the positive (+) and negative (−) terminal locations of the other vehicle. Your vehicle has a remote positive (+) jump starting terminal and a remote negative (−) jump starting terminal. You should always use these remote terminals instead of the terminals on the battery. The remote positive (+) terminal is located behind a red plastic cover, near the engine accessory drive bracket, if your vehicle has one. To uncover the remote positive (+) terminal, open the red plastic cover.
{CAUTION: Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running. 6. Check that the jumper cables do not have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or a remote positive terminal (+) if the vehicle has one.
8. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 9. Now connect the black negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one. The vehicle’s remote negative (–) terminal is marked GND. 10. Do not let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (−) cable does not go to the dead battery.
Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the correct order, making sure that the cables do not touch each other or other metal. To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles do the following: 1. Disconnect the black negative (−) cable from the vehicle that had the bad battery. 2.
Rear Axle How to Check Lubricant When to Check Lubricant It is not necessary to regularly check rear axle fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspected and repaired. All axle assemblies are filled by volume of fluid during production. They are not filled to reach a certain level.
• The proper level for the 2500HD with the 6.6L diesel engine (RPO LLY) or 8.1L V8 engine (RPO L18), and 3500 Series is from 0.6 to 0.8 inch (17 mm to 21 mm) below the bottom of the filler plug hole. Transfer Case When to Check Lubricant Add only enough fluid to reach the proper level. It is not necessary to regularly check transfer case fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspected and repaired.
When to Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to change the lubricant. See Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) on page 617. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 629. Front Axle Automatic Transfer Case To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface.
How to Check Lubricant If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, located on the front axle, you may need to add some lubricant: • When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to raise the level to 0 to 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) below the filler plug hole. • When the differential is at operating temperature (warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole.
Noise Control System Tampering with Noise Control System Prohibited The following information relates to compliance with federal noise emission standards for vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg). The Maintenance Schedule provides information on maintaining the noise control system to minimize degradation of the noise emission control system during the life of your vehicle. The noise control system warranty is given in your warranty booklet.
Fan and Drive: • Removal of fan clutch, if the vehicle has one, or rendering clutch inoperative. • Removal of the fan shroud, if the vehicle has one. Air Intake: • Removal of the air cleaner silencer. • Modification of the air cleaner. Exhaust: • Removal of the muffler and/or resonator. • Removal of the exhaust pipes and exhaust pipe clamps. 532 Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 541.
Headlamps To replace a headlamp bulb, do the following: 1. Open the hood. See Hood Release on page 479 for more information. A. Low-Beam Headlamp B. High-Beam Headlamp 2. Remove the two pins on the top of the headlamp assembly. To remove the pins, turn the outer pin outward and pull it straight up. To remove the inner pin, turn it in and pull it straight up. 3. Pull the headlamp assembly out. 4. Unplug the electrical connector. 5.
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Daytime Running Lamps A. B. C. D. To replace a front turn signal, sidemarker or DRL bulb, do the following: 1. Open the hood. See Hood Release on page 479 for more information. 2. Remove the headlamp assembly as described previously. See Headlamps on page 533 for more information. Sidemarker Lamp Retainer Clip Front Turn Signal Lamp Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) 3. Press the retainer clip (B), located behind the turn signal assembly, towards the outside of the vehicle. 4.
5. Press the locking release lever, turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove it from the turn signal assembly. 6. Remove the old bulb from the bulb socket. 7. Install a new bulb into the bulb socket. 8. Insert the bulb socket into the turn signal assembly and turn it clockwise until it locks. Roof Marker Lamps To replace a roof marker lamp bulb, do the following: 1. Remove the two screws and lift off the lens. 9.
2. Install a new bulb into the socket and turn it clockwise until it locks into place. To replace a center roof marker lamp bulb, do the following: 3. Reinstall the lens and tighten the screws. 1. Remove the six screws from the center roof marker lamp assembly. 2. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise to remove it from the socket. 3. Reinstall the lens and tighten the screws.
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) and Cargo Lamp To replace one of these bulbs, do the following: 1. Remove the screws and lift off the lamp assembly. A. Cargo Lamp B. Center High-Mounted Stoplamp Bulb 2. Remove the back plate from the assembly by pressing the release tabs. 3. Remove the CHMSL bulb by pulling the bulb straight out from the holder back plate. Remove a cargo bulb by turning the socket counterclockwise and pulling the bulb straight out.
4. If a CHMSL bulb is replaced, put the new bulb into the socket and press it in until it is tight. If a cargo lamp is replaced, put a new cargo lamp bulb into the socket and press it in until it is tight before turning the socket counterclockwise. 5. Reinstall the back plate into the lamp assembly. 6. Reinstall the lamp assembly and tighten the screws. 538 Pickup Box Identification and Fender Marker Lamps To replace a pickup box identification or fender marker lamp bulb, do the following: 1.
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps To replace one of these bulbs, do the following: 1. Open the tailgate. Tailgate on page 127 for more information. 2. Remove the two rear lamp assembly screws near the tailgate latch and pull out the lamp assembly. 4. Press the release tab, if the vehicle has one, and turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove it from the taillamp assembly. 5. Pull the old bulb straight out from the socket. 6.
A. B. C. D. Stoplamp/Taillamp Turn Signal Lamp Back-up Lamp Sidemarker Lamp Taillamps (Chassis Cab Models) A. Turn Signal Lamp B. Taillamp/Stoplamp C. Back-up Lamp To replace one of these bulbs, do the following: 1. Peel the rubber seal away from the lens. 2. Lift the lens off the lamp assembly. 3. Pull the old bulb straight out from the socket. 4. Install a new bulb into the socket and press it in until it is tight. 5. Reinstall the lens and the lens seal.
License Plate Lamp To replace one of these bulbs, do the following: 1. Reach under the rear bumper for the bulb socket. 2. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull the bulb socket out of the connector. 3. Pull the old bulb from the bulb socket, keeping the bulb straight as you pull it out. 4. Install the new bulb. 5. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 to reinstall the bulb socket.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement To replace the windshield wiper blade assembly do the following: 1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield. Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear and cracking. See Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) on page 617 for more information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, see Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts (Gasoline Engines) on page 632. 2.
Tires CAUTION: Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer’s booklet included with your vehicle. {CAUTION: Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous. • Overloading your vehicle’s tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction.
20-Inch Tires If your vehicle has the optional 20-inch P275/55R20 size tires, they are classified as touring tires and are designed for on road use. The low-profile, wide tread design is not recommended for “off-road” driving or commercial uses such as snow plowing. See Off-Road Driving on page 372 and Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment on page 416 for additional information. Tire Sidewall Labeling Useful information about a tire is molded into the sidewall.
(B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment tires designed to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines. (C) DOT (Department of Transportation): The Department of Transportation (DOT) code indicates that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
(B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment tires designed to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines. (C) Dual Tire Maximum Load: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load when used in a dual configuration.
(F) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (G) Single Tire Maximum Load: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load when used as a single. For information on recommended tire pressure see Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 551 and Loading Your Vehicle on page 409. Tire Size The following examples show the different parts of a tire size.
(C) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that indicates the tire height-to-width measurements. For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is 75, as shown in item C of the light truck (LT-Metric) tire illustration, it would mean that the tire’s sidewall is 75 percent as high as it is wide. Tire Terminology and Definitions (D) Construction Code: A letter code is used to indicate the type of ply construction in the tire.
Cold Tire Pressure: The amount of air pressure in a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up heat from driving. See Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 551. Curb Weight: This means the weight of a motor vehicle with standard and optional equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, but without passengers and cargo. DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall of a tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the U.S.
Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions. Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering, or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on the other sidewall of the tire. Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight. Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the vehicle’s capacity weight and the original equipment tire size and recommended inflation pressure. See “Tire and Loading Information Label” under Loading Your Vehicle on page 409. Inflation - Tire Pressure Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively.
How to Check Dual Tire Operation Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You cannot tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. Check the tire’s inflation pressure when the tires are cold. Cold means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles (8 000 to 13 000 km). The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) on page 617. Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels.
If your vehicle has dual rear wheels and the tread design for the front tires is different from the dual rear tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here when rotating your tires. If your vehicle has dual rear wheels and the tread design for your front tires is the same as your rear tires, always use one of the correct rotation patterns shown here when rotating your tires. The dual tires are rotated as a pair, and the inside rear tires become the outside rear tires.
When It Is Time for New Tires {CAUTION: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get all the rust or dirt off. See Changing a Flat Tire on page 564.
You need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: • You can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire. • You can see cord or fabric showing through the tire’s rubber. • The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deep enough to show cord or fabric. • The tire has a bump, bulge, or split. • The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that cannot be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage.
{CAUTION: {CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes, brands, or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes, brands or types may also cause damage to your vehicle. Be sure to use the same size, brand, and type tires on all wheels. If you use bias-ply tires on your vehicle, the wheel rim flanges could develop cracks after many miles of driving.
Different Size Tires and Wheels If you add wheels or tires that are a different size than your original equipment wheels and tires, this may affect the way your vehicle performs, including its braking, ride and handling characteristics, stability, and resistance to rollover. Additionally, if your vehicle has electronic systems such as, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control, the performance of these systems can be affected.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1.5) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
Temperature – A, B, C Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for your vehicle. {CAUTION: Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous.
Used Replacement Wheels Tire Chains {CAUTION: {CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You cannot know how it has been used or how far it has been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause a crash. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel. If your vehicle has dual wheels or P265/75R16, LT265/75R16, P265/70R17 or P275/55R20 size tires, do not use tire chains. They can damage your vehicle because there is not enough clearance.
CAUTION: (Continued) Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer’s instructions. To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the device if it is contacting your vehicle, and do not spin your vehicle’s wheels. If you do find traction devices that will fit, install them on the rear tires.
A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you would use in a skid. In any rear blowout remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible.
CAUTION: (Continued) 3. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear – not in NEUTRAL. 4. Turn off the engine and do not restart while the vehicle is raised. 5. Do not allow passengers to remain in the vehicle. To be even more certain the vehicle will not move, put blocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side, at the opposite end of the vehicle.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools Regular Cab and Crew Cab (Except 1500 Crew Cab) 1500 Crew Cab A. Knob B. Retaining Hook C. Wheel Blocks 566 D. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks E. Jack A. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks B. Wheel Blocks C. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut D. Tool Kit and Jack Tools E. Retaining Hook F. Jack G.
Extended Cab A. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks B. Wheel Blocks C. Retaining Hook D. Jack E. Knob F. Tool Kit and Jack Tools G. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut Extended Cab Short Box A. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks B. Wheel Blocks C. Jack D. Retaining Hook E. Knob F. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut G.
For regular cab models, the equipment you will need is behind the passenger’s seat. For extended and crew cab models, the equipment is on the shelf behind the passenger’s side second row seat. 1. If there is a cover, move the seats forward and turn the wing nut on the cover counterclockwise to remove it. For crew cab models, pull up the second row seat with the loop at the base of the seat cushion to access the tools. 2.
1. Open the spare tire lock cover on the bumper and use the ignition key to remove the lock, if equipped with a spare tire lock (J). To remove the spare tire lock, insert the key, turn and pull straight out. 2. Assemble the wheel wrench (H) and the two jack handle extensions (I) as shown. 3. Insert the hoist end (open end) (F) of the extension through the hole (G) in the rear bumper. Be sure the hoist end of the extension (F) connects to the hoist shaft (E).
4. Turn the wheel wrench (H) counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground. Continue to turn the wheel wrench until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle. If the spare tire does not lower to the ground, the secondary latch is engaged causing the tire not to lower. See Secondary Latch System on page 580. 5. Use the wheel wrench hook which allows you to pull the hoist cable towards you to assist in reaching the spare tire. 570 6.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire Use the following pictures and instructions to remove the flat tire and raise the vehicle. 1. If your vehicle has wheel nut caps, loosen them by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. If the vehicle has a center cap with wheel nut caps, the wheel nut caps are designed to stay with the center cap after they are loosened. Remove the entire center cap.
If the wheel has a smooth center cap, place the chisel end of the wheel wrench in the slot on the wheel, and gently pry it out. 572 2. Use the wheel wrench and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the wheel nuts. Do not remove the wheel nuts yet.
If the flat tire is on the rear, position the jack under the rear axle between the spring anchor and the shock absorber bracket. If you have added a snow plow to the front of your vehicle, lower the snow plow fully before raising the vehicle. {CAUTION: Jacking Locations A. Front Location (Two-Wheel-Drive 1500 Model) B. Front Location (All Other Models) C. Rear Location (All Models) Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous.
{CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.
Rear Position – 2WD Pickup Models Rear Position – All Other Models 4. Make sure the jack head is positioned so that the rear axle is resting securely between the grooves that are on the jack head. 5. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the vehicle. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit under the wheel well.
6. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. CAUTION: (Continued) remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get all the rust or dirt off. 7. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces, and spare wheel.
{CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 9. Put the wheel nuts back on with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. 10. Tighten each wheel nut by hand. Then use the wheel wrench to tighten the nuts until the wheel is held against the hub.
Front Position - 2WD 1500 Model Rear Position 11. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the vehicle. Lower the jack completely.
{CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to come loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to the proper torque specification. See Capacities and Specifications on page 609 for wheel nut torque specification.
Secondary Latch System To release the spare tire from the secondary latch, do the following: Your vehicle has an underbody-mounted tire hoist assembly that has a secondary latch system. It is designed to stop the spare tire from suddenly falling off your vehicle. For the secondary latch to work, the spare must be installed with the valve stem pointing down. See Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools on page 584. {CAUTION: Before beginning this procedure read all the instructions.
4. Repeat this procedure at least two times. If the spare tire lowers to the ground, continue with Step 5 of Removing the Spare Tire and Tools on page 566. 5. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until approximately 6 inches (15 cm) of cable is exposed. 6. Stand the wheel blocks on their shortest ends, with the backs facing each other. 7. Place the bottom edge of the jack (A) on the wheel blocks (B), separating them so that the jack is balanced securely. 8.
11. Continue raising the jack until the spare tire stops moving upward and is held firmly in place. The secondary latch has released and the spare tire is balancing on the jack. 12. Lower the jack by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Keep lowering the jack until the spare tire slides off the jack or is hanging by the cable. {CAUTION: 9. Position the center lift point of the jack under the center of the spare tire. 10.
14. Use one hand to push against the spare while firmly pulling the jack out from under the spare tire with the other hand. If the spare tire is hanging from the cable, insert the hoist handle, extension, and wheel wrench into the hoist shaft hole in the bumper and turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare the rest of the way. 15. Tilt the retainer at the end of the cable and pull it through the wheel opening. Pull the tire out from under the vehicle. 16.
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools Store the tire under the rear of the vehicle in the spare tire carrier. Use the following art and text to assist you: {CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire, 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 all these in the proper place.
G. Hoist Shaft Access Hole H. Wheel Wrench I. Jack Handle Extensions J. Spare Tire Lock (If Equipped) 1. Put the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem pointed down, and to the rear. 2. Tilt the retainer (D) downward and through the wheel opening. Make sure the retainer is fully seated across the underside of the wheel. 3. Attach the wheel wrench (H) and extensions (I) as shown.
4. Insert the hoist end (F) through the hole (G) in the rear bumper. Be sure the hoist end of the extension (F) connects to the hoist shaft (E). The ribbed square end of the extension is used to lower the spare tire. 5. Raise the tire part way upward. Make sure the retainer (D) is seated in the wheel opening. 6. Raise the tire fully against the underside of the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench clockwise until you hear two clicks or feel it skip twice. You cannot overtighten the cable. 586 7.
To store the jack and jack tools, do the following: A. Wing Nut B. Wheel Blocks C. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut D. Wheel Wrench and Extensions E. Tool Bag F. Mounting Bracket G. Jack H. Retaining Hook 1. Put the tools (D) in the tool bag (E) and place them in the retaining bracket (C). 2. Tighten down the wing nut (C). 3. Assemble the wheel blocks (B) and jack (G) together with the wing nut (A) and retaining hook (H). 4. Position the jack (G) in the mounting bracket (F).
Spare Tire Your vehicle, when new, had a fully-inflated spare tire. A spare tire may lose air over time, so check its inflation pressure regularly. See Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 551 and Loading Your Vehicle on page 409 for information regarding proper tire inflation and loading your vehicle. For instruction on how to remove, install or store a spare tire, see Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire on page 571 and Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools on page 584.
Appearance Care Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle Your vehicle’s interior will continue to look its best if it is cleaned often. Although not always visible, dust and dirt can accumulate on your upholstery. Dirt can damage carpet, fabric, leather, and plastic surfaces. Regular vacuuming is recommended to remove particles from your upholstery. It is important to keep your upholstery from becoming and remaining heavily soiled. Soils should be removed as quickly as possible.
Do not clean your vehicle using the following cleaners or techniques: • Never use a knife or any other sharp object to remove a soil from any interior surface. • Never use a stiff brush. It can cause damage to your vehicle’s interior surfaces. • Never apply heavy pressure or rub aggressively with a cleaning cloth. Use of heavy pressure can damage your interior and does not improve the effectiveness of soil removal. • Use only mild, neutral-pH soaps.
4. Continue to gently rub the soiled area until the cleaning cloth remains clean. 5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution and repeat the cleaning process that was used with plain water. If any of the soil remains, a commercial fabric cleaner or spot lifter may be necessary. When a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter is to be used, test a small hidden area for colorfastness first.
Some commercial products may increase gloss on your instrument panel. The increase in gloss may cause annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions. Care of Safety Belts Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold, damp weather frequent application may be required.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting. High pressure car washes may cause water to enter the vehicle. Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under Washing Your Vehicle on page 592. Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your vehicle by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish.
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts Bright metal parts should be cleaned regularly to keep their luster. Washing with water is all that is usually needed. However, you may use chrome polish on chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary. Use special care with aluminum trim. To avoid damaging protective trim, never use auto or chrome polish, steam or caustic soap to clean aluminum. A coating of wax, rubbed to high polish, is recommended for all bright metal parts.
The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted surface of your vehicle. Do not use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners, cleaners with acid, or abrasive cleaning brushes on them because you could damage the surface. Do not use chrome polish on aluminum wheels. Notice: Using chrome polish on aluminum wheels could damage the wheels. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Use chrome polish on chrome wheels only.
Finish Damage Chemical Paint Spotting Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode quickly and may develop into major repair expense. Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on the vehicle. This damage can take two forms: blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface.
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials Description Usage Description Usage Swirl Remover Polish Removes swirl marks, fine scratches, and other light surface contamination. Cleaner Wax Removes light scratches and protects finish. Foaming Tire Shine Low Gloss Cleans, shines, and protects in one step. No wiping necessary. Wash Wax Concentrate Medium foaming shampoo. Cleans and lightly waxes. Biodegradable and phosphate free. Polishing Cloth Wax-Treated Interior and exterior polishing cloth.
Vehicle Identification Engine Identification Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) The eighth character in the VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your vehicle’s engine, specifications, and replacement parts. Service Parts Identification Label This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle.
Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment Notice: Do not add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage would not be covered by your warranty. Some add-on electrical equipment can keep other components from working as they should. Add-on equipment can drain your vehicle’s battery, even if your vehicle is not operating. Your vehicle has an airbag system.
Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers and fusible thermal links. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating.
Fuses HTR A/C LOCK (Relay) HVAC 1 LT DR CRUISE UNLCK (Relay) RR FOG LP BRAKE DRIVER UNLCK Fuses RR WPR SEO ACCY WS WPR TBC ACCY IGN 3 4WD Usage Not Used Special Equipment Option Accessory Windshield Wipers Truck Body Controller Accessory Ignition, Heated Seats Four-Wheel Drive System, Auxiliary Battery IGN 0 TBC IGN 0 VEH CHMSL LT TRLR ST/TRN Usage Climate Control System Power Door Lock Relay (Lock Function) Climate Control System Driver’s Door Harness Connection Cruise Control, Power Take Off (PTO) Pow
Fuses LT TRN VEH STOP RT TRLR ST/TRN RT TRN BODY DDM AUX PWR 2, M/GATE LCKS ECC, TPM TBC 2C HAZRD CB LT DRS TBC 2B TBC 2A 602 Usage Left Turn Signals and Sidemarkers Vehicle Stoplamps, Brake Module, Electronic Throttle Control Module Right Turn Signal/Stop Trailer Right Turn Signals and Sidemarkers Harness Connector Driver Door Module Not Used Power Door Lock System Tire Pressure Monitoring System Truck Body Controller Flasher Module Left Power Windows Circuit Breaker Truck Body Controller Truck Body Cont
Device HDLR 2 BODY DEFOG HDLNR 1 SPARE RELAY CB SEAT CB RT DOOR SPARE INFO Usage Headliner Wiring Connector Body Wiring Connector Rear Defogger Relay Headliner Wiring Connector 1 Not Used Driver and Passenger Seat Module Circuit Breaker Right Power Windows Circuit Breaker Not Used Infotainment Harness Connection Underhood Fuse Block The underhood fuse block in the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle near the battery. Lift the cover for access to the fuse/relay block.
1* Fuel Injection Rail #2-Gasoline Engine; Engine Control Module-Diesel Engine. 2* Fuel Injection Rail #1-Gasoline Engine; Actuator-Diesel Engine. 3* Oxygen Sensors-Gasoline Engine; Fuel Heater-Diesel Engine. 4* Oxygen Sensors-Gasoline Engine; Engine Control Module 1-Diesel Engine. Fuses GLOW PLUG CUST FEED HYBRID STUD #1 5* Ignition 1-Gasoline Engine; Engine Control Module-Diesel Engine. MBEC 6* Powertrain Control Module B-Gasoline Engine; Engine Control Module B-Diesel Engine.
Fuses LBEC 1 TRL PARK RR PARK LR PARK PARK LP STRTR INTPARK STOP LP TBC BATT SEO B2 4WS AUX PWR PCM 1 ETC/ECM 606 Usage Left Bussed Electrical Center, Left Doors, Truck Body Controller, Flasher Module Parking Lamps Trailer Wiring Right Rear Parking and Sidemarker Lamps Left Rear Parking and Sidemarker Lamps Parking Lamps Relay Starter Relay Interior Lamps Stoplamps Truck Body Controller Battery Feed Off-Road Lamps Not Used Auxiliary Power Outlet — Console Powertrain Control Module Electronic Throttle Cont
Fuses DRL RVC IPC/DIC HVAC/ECAS CIG LTR HI HDLP-RT HDLP-LOW A/C COMP A/C COMP TCMB RR WPR RADIO SEO B1 Usage Daytime Running Lamps Regulated Voltage Control Instrument Panel Cluster/Driver Information Center Climate Control Controller Cigarette Lighter High Beam Headlamp-Right Headlamp Low Beam Relay Air Conditioning Compressor Relay Air Conditioning Compressor Transmission Control Module Not Used Audio System Mid Bussed Electrical Center, Rear Heated Seats, Universal Home Remote System Fuses LO HDLP-LT B
Auxiliary Electric Cooling Fan Fuse Block The auxiliary electric cooling fan fuse block is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle next to the underhood fuse block. Lift the cover for access to the fuse/relay block.
Capacities and Specifications The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 629 for more information. Application Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a Cooling System 4.3L V6 Automatic with Front A/C* 4.3L V6 Automatic with Front A/C** 4.3L V6 Manual with Front A/C* 4.3L V6 Manual with Front A/C** 4.8L V8 Automatic with Front A/C* 4.8L V8 Automatic with Front A/C** 4.8L V8 Manual with Front A/C* 4.
Application 8.1L V8 HD Automatic* 8.1L V8 Automatic* 8.1L V8 Manual* * Engine Fan Driven cooling system ** Electric Cooling Fan system Transmission Automatic Four Speed 4L80-E Automatic Four Speed 4L60-E and 4L70–E Automatic Six Speed Allison 2WD Manual Five Speed Getrag 4WD Manual Five Speed Getrag 2WD Manual Five Speed New Venture Gear Engine Oil with Filter 4.3L V6 4.8L V8; 5.3L V8; 6.0L V8 8.
Capacities English Metric Transfer Case Fluid 2.0 qt 1.9 L Wheel Nut Torque 140 ft lb 190 Y After refill, the level must be rechecked. Add enough engine coolant so that the fluid is within the proper operating range. Application Engine Specifications Engine VIN Code Transmission Spark Plug Gap VORTEC™ 4.3L V6 X Automatic Manual 0.060 inches (1.52 mm) VORTEC™ 4.8L V8 V Automatic Manual 0.040 inches (1.01 mm) VORTEC™ 5.3L V8 Flex Fuel Z Automatic 0.040 inches (1.01 mm) VORTEC™ 5.
✍ NOTES 612
Section 6 Maintenance Schedule Maintenance Schedule ................................ 614 Introduction ............................................... 614 Maintenance Requirements ........................ 614 Your Vehicle and the Environment ............ 615 Using the Maintenance Schedule ............... 615 Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) .................................. 617 Additional Required Services (Gasoline Engine) ..................................
Maintenance Schedule Introduction This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see the maintenance schedule section in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement. Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level and change as recommended. Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet or your dealer for details.
Your Vehicle and the Environment Using the Maintenance Schedule Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommended maintenance is important. Improper vehicle maintenance can even affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level of emissions from your vehicle.
This schedule is for vehicles that: • carry passengers and cargo within recommended limits. You will find these limits on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 409. • are driven on reasonable road surfaces within legal driving limits. • are driven off-road in the recommended manner. See Off-Road Driving on page 372. • use the recommended fuel. See Gasoline Octane on page 470.
If you want to purchase service information, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 657. Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) Owner Checks and Services on page 625 tells you what should be checked, when to check it, and what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition. This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see the maintenance schedule section in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement.
If the engine oil life system is ever reset accidentally, you must service your vehicle within 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last service. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed. See Engine Oil Life System (Gasoline Engine) on page 489 for information on the Engine Oil Life System and resetting the system. When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message appears, certain services, checks, and inspections are required.
Scheduled Maintenance Service Maintenance I Maintenance II • • Lubricate chassis components. See footnote #. • • Visually check for any leaks or damage. See footnote (j). • • Change engine oil and filter. See Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 486. Reset oil life system. See Engine Oil Life System (Gasoline Engine) on page 489. An Emission Control Service. Allison Transmission® only: Replace external transmission filter at the first maintenance service performed on the vehicle.
Scheduled Maintenance (cont’d) Service Maintenance I Maintenance II Inspect suspension and steering components. See footnote (b). • Inspect engine cooling system. See footnote (c). • Inspect wiper blades. See footnote (d). • Inspect restraint system components. See footnote (e). • Lubricate body components. See footnote (f). • Check transmission fluid level and add fluid as needed. • Inspect shields, vehicles with diesel engine or with GVWR above 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) only. See footnote (n).
Additional Required Services (Gasoline Engine) This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see the maintenance schedule section in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement. The following services should be performed at the first maintenance service (I or II) after the indicated miles (kilometers) shown for each item. Additional Required Services Service and Miles (Kilometers) Inspect fuel system for damage or leaks.
Additional Required Services (cont’d) Service and Miles (Kilometers) Except Allison Transmission®: Change automatic transmission fluid and filter (severe service). See footnote (h). Except Allison Transmission®: Change automatic transmission fluid and filter (normal service). Four-wheel drive with automatic transfer case only: Change transfer case fluid. See footnote (g). Inspect evaporative control system. An Emission Control Service. See footnotes † and (k).
Maintenance Footnotes (Gasoline Engine) This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see the maintenance schedule section in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement. † The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air Resources Board has determined that the failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to the completion of the vehicle’s useful life.
(e) Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also look for any opened or broken airbag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.
(k) Inspect system. Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper hook-up, routing, and condition. Check that the purge valve, if the vehicle has one, works properly. (q) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
At Each Fuel Fill At Least Once a Month It is important to perform these underhood checks at each fuel fill. Tire Inflation Check Engine Oil Level Check Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if necessary. See Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 486 for further details. Notice: It is important to check your oil regularly and keep it at the proper level. Failure to keep your engine oil at the proper level can cause damage to your engine not covered by your warranty.
At Least Once a Year Starter Switch Check {CAUTION: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See Parking Brake on page 169. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts. 3. Try to start the engine in each gear.
Ignition Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK in each shift lever position. • The ignition should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). • The ignition key should come out only in LOCK. Contact your GM Goodwrench® dealer if service is required. 628 Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission Park (P) Mechanism Check {CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. • To check the parking brake’s holding ability: With the engine running and transmission in NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only. • To check the PARK (P) mechanism’s holding ability: With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant Hydraulic Brake Delco® Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or System equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid. Windshield GM Optikleen® Washer Solvent. Washer Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Hydraulic (GM Part No. U.S. 12345347, Clutch System in Canada 10953517) or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid. Power Steering Fluid Power Steering GM (GM Part No. U.S. 89021184, System in Canada 89021186).
Usage Rear Axle Manual Transfer Case Automatic Transfer Case Fluid/Lubricant SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. U.S. 12378261, in Canada 10953455) meeting GM Specification 9986115. Manual Transmission Fluid (GM Part No. U.S. 88861800, in Canada 88861801). AUTO-TRAK II Fluid (GM Part No. U.S. 12378508, in Canada 10953626). Front Axle Propshaft Spline or One-Piece Propshaft Spline (Two-Wheel Drive with Auto. Trans.) Spline Lubricant, Special Lubricant (GM Part No. U.S.
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts (Gasoline Engines) Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your GM dealer. If your vehicle has a diesel engine see the maintenance schedule section in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement. Part Engine Air Cleaner/Filter High Capacity Standard Oil Filter 4.3L V6 4.8L V8; 5.3L V8; 6.0L V8 8.1L V8 Spark Plugs 4.3L V6 4.8L V8; 5.3L V8; 6.0L V8 8.1L V8 Wiper Blades (ITTA Type) 22 inches (56.
Engine Drive Belt Routing V8 Engines V6 Engines (A) Air Conditioning Compressor 633
Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the type of services performed in the boxes provided. See Maintenance Requirements on page 614. Any additional information from Owner Checks and Services on page 625 can be added on the following record pages. You should retain all maintenance receipts.
Maintenance Record (cont’d) Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed 635
Maintenance Record (cont’d) Date 636 Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed
Section 7 Customer Assistance Information Customer Assistance and Information ....... 638 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ............... 638 Online Owner Center ................................. 641 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users .......................... 642 Customer Assistance Offices ..................... 642 GM Mobility Reimbursement Program ........ 643 Roadside Assistance Program ................... 644 Courtesy Transportation .............................
Customer Assistance and Information Customer Satisfaction Procedure Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to your dealer and to GMC. Normally, any concerns with the sales transaction or the operation of the vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service departments. Sometimes, however, despite the best intentions of all concerned, misunderstandings can occur.
When contacting GMC, please remember that your concern will likely be resolved at a dealer’s facility. That is why we suggest you follow Step One first if you have a concern. STEP THREE — U.S. Owners: Both General Motors and your dealer are committed to making sure you are completely satisfied with your new vehicle. However, if you continue to remain unsatisfied after following the procedure outlined in Steps One and Two, you should file with the BBB Auto Line Program to enforce your rights.
STEP THREE — Canadian Owners: In the event that you do not feel your concerns have been addressed after following the procedure outlined in steps 1 and 2, General Motors of Canada Limited wants you to be aware of its participation in a no-charge Mediation/Arbitration Program. General Motors of Canada Limited has committed to binding arbitration of owner disputes involving factory-related vehicle service claims.
Online Owner Center My GM Canada (Canada only) Online Owner Center (United States only) My GM Canada is a password-protected section of gmcanada.com where you can save information on GM vehicles, get personalized offers, and use handy tools and forms with greater ease. The Owner Center is a resource for your GM ownership needs. Specific vehicle information can be found in one place. The Online Owner Center allows you to: • Get e-mail service reminders.
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired and who use the Text Telephones (TTYs), GMC has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with GMC by dialing: 1-800-GMC-8583 (462-8583). (TTY users in Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.) Customer Assistance Offices GMC encourages customers to call the toll-free number for assistance.
All Overseas Locations Please contact the local General Motors Business Unit. GM Mobility Reimbursement Program Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) General Motors de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. Customer Assistance Center Paseo de la Reforma # 2740 Col. Lomas de Bezares C.P. 11910, Mexico, D.F.
Roadside Assistance Program In the U.S. call, 1-800-GMC-8782 (1-800-462-8782) In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800 Service available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year As the owner of a new GMC vehicle, you are automatically enrolled in the GMC Roadside Assistance program. This value-added service is intended to provide you with peace of mind as you drive in the city or travel the open road. Who is Covered? Roadside Assistance coverage is for the vehicle operator, regardless of ownership.
• Emergency Tow From a Public Roadway or • • • • • Highway: Tow to the nearest dealership for warranty service or in the event of a vehicle-disabling accident. Winch-out assistance when the vehicle is mired in sand, mud, or snow. Flat Tire Change: Installation of your spare tire in good condition will be covered at no charge. The customer is responsible for the repair or replacement of the tire if not covered by a warrantable failure.
• Trip Interruption Benefits and Assistance: In the event of a warranty related vehicle disablement, while en route and over 250 kilometres from original point of departure, you may qualify for trip interruption expense assistance. This assistance covers reasonable reimbursement of up to a maximum of $500 (Canadian) for (A) meals (maximum of $50/day), (B) lodging (maximum of $100/night) and (C) alternate ground transportation (maximum of $40/day).
GMC and General Motors of Canada Limited reserve the right to limit services or reimbursement to an owner or driver when, in their sole discretion, the claims become excessive in frequency or type of occurrence. Roadside Assistance is not part of or included in the coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. GMC and General Motors of Canada reserve the right to make any changes or discontinue the Roadside Assistance program at any time without notification.
Scheduling Service Appointments Transportation Options When your vehicle requires warranty service, you should contact your dealer and request an appointment. By scheduling a service appointment and advising your service consultant of your transportation needs, your dealer can help minimize your inconvenience. Warranty service can generally be completed while you wait. However, if you are unable to wait, GM helps to minimize your inconvenience by providing several transportation options.
In addition, for U.S. customers, should you arrange transportation through a friend or relative, limited reimbursement for reasonable fuel expenses may be available. Claim amounts should reflect actual costs and be supported by original receipts. Courtesy Rental Vehicle Your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle that you obtain if your vehicle is kept for an overnight warranty repair.
Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data Recorders Your vehicle, like other modern motor vehicles, has a number of sophisticated computer systems that monitor and control several aspects of the vehicle’s performance.
In addition, once GM collects or receives data, GM may: • use the data for GM research needs, • make it available for research where appropriate confidentiality is to be maintained and need is shown, or • share summary data which is not tied to a specific vehicle with non-GM organizations for research purposes. Others, such as law enforcement, may have access to the special equipment that can read the information if they have access to the vehicle or the device that stores the data.
Recycled original equipment parts may also be used for repair. These parts are typically removed from vehicles that were total losses in prior accidents. In most cases, the parts being recycled are from undamaged sections of the vehicle. A recycled original equipment GM part, may be an acceptable choice to maintain your vehicle’s originally designed appearance and safety performance, however, the history of these parts is not known.
If your vehicle is leased, the leasing company may require you to have insurance that assures repairs with Genuine GM Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts or Genuine Manufacturer replacement parts. Read your lease carefully, as you may be charged at the end of your lease for poor quality repairs. If an Accident Occurs Here is what to do if you are involved in an accident. • Try to relax and then check to make sure you are all right.
• Gather the important information you will need • Choose a reputable collision repair facility for from the other driver. Things like name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, vehicle license plate, vehicle make, model and model year, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), insurance company and policy number, and a general description of the damage to the other vehicle. • If possible, call your insurance company from the scene of the accident.
Managing the Vehicle Damage Repair Process In the event that your vehicle requires damage repairs, GM recommends that you take an active role in its repair. If you have a pre-determined repair facility of choice, take your vehicle there, or have it towed there. Specify to the facility that any required replacement collision parts be original equipment parts, either new Genuine GM parts or recycled original GM parts. Remember, recycled parts will not be covered by your GM vehicle warranty.
Reporting Safety Defects Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying General Motors. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.
In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, CA1-163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 Service Bulletins Service Publications Ordering Information In Canada, the service bulletin reference number can be obtained by contacting your General Motors dealer or by calling 1-800-GM-DRIVE (1-800-463-7483). This reference number is needed to order the service bulletin from Helm, Inc.
Owner Information Owner publications are written specifically for owners and intended to provide basic operational information about the vehicle. The owner manual will include the Maintenance Schedule for all models. In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner Manual, and Warranty Booklet. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00 US + Processing Fee Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $25.
A Accessories and Modifications ..................... 468 Accessory Power Outlet(s) .......................... 228 Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment ................................................ 416 Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ..................................................... 109 Additives, Fuel ............................................ 472 Add-On Electrical Equipment ....................... 599 Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine .............................
Appearance Care (cont.) Washing Your Vehicle .............................. Weatherstrips ........................................... Windshield and Wiper Blades ................... Ashtray(s) .................................................... Audio System(s) .......................................... AM-FM Radio .......................................... Audio Steering Wheel Controls ................. Care of Your Cassette Tape Player .......... Care of Your CD and DVD Player ............
Bulb Replacement (cont.) Headlamps ............................................... License Plate Lamps ................................ Pickup Box Identification and Fender Marker Lamps ...................................... Replacement Bulbs .................................. Roof Marker Lamps ................................. Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps .............................. Buying New Tires ........................................
Cigarette Lighter .......................................... 229 Cleaning Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels ........ 594 Exterior Lamps/Lenses ............................. 593 Fabric/Carpet ........................................... 590 Finish Care .............................................. 593 Inside of Your Vehicle .............................. 589 Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces .................................... 591 Leather ....................................................
D Daytime Running Lamps ............................. 222 Defensive Driving ........................................ 356 Delayed Locking .......................................... 122 Doing Your Own Service Work .................... 469 Dome Lamp Override .................................. 227 Dome Lamps ............................................... 226 Door Delayed Locking ...................................... 122 Locks ....................................................... 120 Power Door Locks .......
Engine (cont.) Check and Service Engine Soon Light ..... 258 Coolant .................................................... 502 Coolant Heater ......................................... 139 Coolant Temperature Gage ...................... 256 Drive Belt Routing .................................... 633 Engine Compartment Overview ................ 480 Exhaust ................................................... 174 Fan Noise ................................................ 514 Oil .................................
Fuses Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block ........ Fuses and Circuit Breakers ...................... Instrument Panel Fuse Block ................... Underhood Fuse Block ............................. Windshield Wiper ..................................... 602 600 600 603 599 G Gage Engine Coolant Temperature .................... Fuel ......................................................... Oil Pressure ............................................. Speedometer ...........................................
Horn ............................................................ 213 How to Use This Manual ................................ 4 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ............... 27 Hydraulic Clutch .......................................... 501 I Ignition Positions ......................................... 135 Infants and Young Children, Restraints .......... 47 Inflation - Tire Pressure ............................... 551 Instrument Panel Overview ..................................................
Light (cont.) Passenger Airbag Status Indicator ............ 250 Safety Belt Reminder ............................... 247 Security ................................................... 263 Tow/Haul Mode ........................................ 264 Traction Off .............................................. 256 Up-Shift ................................................... 254 Lighting Entry ........................................................ 227 Exit ........................................................
Manual Windows ......................................... 129 Memory Seat and Mirrors .............................. 12 Message DIC Warnings and Messages ................... 270 Mirrors Automatic Dimming Rearview with Compass and Temperature Display ....... 180 Automatic Dimming Rearview with OnStar®, Compass and Temperature Display ................................................. 176 Manual Rearview Mirror ........................... 176 Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror ...........
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode ....................................... 508 Owner Checks and Services ....................... 625 Owners, Canadian .......................................... 3 Power (cont.) Steering Fluid .......................................... 515 Windows .................................................. 130 Programmable Automatic Door Locks .......... 123 P Q Paint, Damage ............................................ 596 Park (P) Shifting Into ..........................
Rear Axle .................................................... 527 Locking .................................................... 366 Rear Door Security Locks ........................... 126 Rear Doors ................................................. 126 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides .................. 41 Rear Seat Audio (RSA) ............................... 347 Rear Seat Entertainment System ................. 334 Rear Seat Operation ..............................
Safety Belts (cont.) How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ............ 27 Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ............................................ 26 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ............... 41 Rear Seat Passengers ............................... 38 Right Front Passenger Position .................. 37 Safety Belt Extender .................................. 43 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ............. 36 Safety Belts Are for Everyone .................... 22 Safety Warnings and Symbols .
Spare Tire (cont.) Removing ................................................ Storing ..................................................... Specifications, Capacities ............................ Speedometer ............................................... Starting Your Engine ................................... Steering ...................................................... Steering Wheel Controls, Audio ................... Steering Wheel, Tilt Wheel ..........................
Tires (cont.) Uniform Tire Quality Grading .................... Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ........... Wheel Replacement ................................. When It Is Time for New Tires ................. Tonneau Cover ............................................ Tow/Haul Mode ........................................... Tow/Haul Mode Light ................................... Towing Power Take-Off (PTO) .............................. Recreational Vehicle .................................
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) .......................................... Service Parts Identification Label .............. Ventilation Adjustment .................................. Visors .......................................................... Voltmeter Gage ........................................... 598 598 243 131 253 W Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators ......... 244 Warnings DIC Warnings and Messages ................... 270 Hazard Warning Flashers .........................
