Page 1 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ......1-1 Driving Your Vehicle ........4-1 Front Seats Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ..........1-2 ..4-2 Rear Seats Towing ..........1-8 ........... 4-48 Safety Belts ..........1-10 Service and Appearance Care ......
Page 2: Canadian Owners
For vehicles ﬁrst sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever Index it appears in this manual.
Page 3 Safety Warnings and Symbols You will also ﬁnd a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety You will ﬁnd a number of safety cautions in this book. symbol means “Don’t,” We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about “Don’t do this”...
Page 4: Vehicle Symbols
Vehicle Damage Warnings Vehicle Symbols Also, in this book you will ﬁnd these notices: Your vehicle has components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols, used on your vehicle, Notice: These mean there is something that could are shown along with the text describing the operation damage your vehicle.
Page 5 These are some examples of vehicle symbols you may ﬁnd on your vehicle:...
Page 6 NOTES...
Page 7 Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Front Seats ............1-2 Where to Put the Restraint ......1-41 Manual Passenger Seat ........1-2 Top Strap ............1-42 Power Seats ..........1-2 Top Strap Anchor Location ......1-43 Power Lumbar ..........1-3 Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Heated Seats ..........1-4 Children (LATCH System) ......1-43 Reclining Seatbacks ........1-5 Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat...
Page 8: Front Seats
Front Seats Power Seats Manual Passenger Seat Horizontal Control: If your vehicle has a power seat, you can adjust it with the horizontal control located on the outboard edge of the seat(s). If your vehicle has a manual front passenger split bench •...
Page 9: Power Lumbar
• Power Lumbar Move the seat forward or rearward by moving the whole control toward the front or toward the rear of the vehicle. If you have power lumbar • adjustment, you can Moving the whole control up or down raises or increase or decrease lowers the entire seat cushion.
Page 10: Heated Seats
You can also reshape the back wing area of the lower Heated Seats seatback. • To increase support in the wing area of the lower Your vehicle may have seatback, press and hold the top of the control. heated front seats. The Let go of the control when the lower seatback buttons used to control this reaches the desired level of support.
Page 11: Reclining Seatbacks
The low setting warms the seatback and cushion until Reclining Seatbacks the seat temperature is near body temperature. The medium and high settings heat the seatback and seat cushion to a slightly higher temperature. You will be able to feel heat in about two minutes. To heat only the seatback, press the vertical button with the heated seatback symbol.
Page 12 CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job. In a crash, you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries.
Page 13 Head Restraints Adjust your head restraint so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your head. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. The rear seat head restraints in your vehicle are adjustable.
Page 14: Rear Seats
Rear Seats Rear Seat Operation The rear seat is a 60/40 split rear seat that can be folded to give you more cargo space and access to the folding midgate. See Midgate on page 2-12 for more information on operation of the folding midgate. To fold either side of the seat do the following: 1.
Page 15 CAUTION: CAUTION: If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move A safety belt that is improperly routed, not forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could properly attached, or twisted won’t provide the cause injury to the person sitting there. Always protection needed in a crash.
Page 16: Safety Belts
Safety Belts CAUTION: Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo This part of the manual tells you how to use safety area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a belts properly. It also tells you some things you should collision, people riding in these areas are more not do with safety belts.
Page 17: Why Safety Belts Work
You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a Why Safety Belts Work crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so goes.
Page 18 Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. 1-12...
Page 19 The person keeps going until stopped by something. In or the instrument panel... a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... 1-13...
Page 20: Questions And Answers About Safety Belts
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be – whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.
Page 21 If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from wear safety belts? home, why should I wear safety belts? Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an most of them in the future.
Page 22: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see Older Children on page 1-32 or Infants and Young Children on page 1-34 .
Page 23 5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt. the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones.
Page 24 What’s 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. The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way.
Page 25 What’s 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.
Page 26 What’s 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.
Page 27 What’s 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 aren’t as strong as shoulder bones.
Page 28 What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t 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.
Page 29: Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
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 don’t wear safety belts. To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way.
Page 30: Center Passenger Position
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the Center Passenger Position mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.
Page 31: Lap Belt
Lap Belt To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. When you sit in a center front seating position, you Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make part of a lap-shoulder belt.
Page 32: Rear Seat Passengers
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.
Page 33 Lap-Shoulder Belt If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-31 . All rear seating positions have lap-shoulder belts. Here Make sure the release button on the buckle is is how to wear a lap-shoulder belt properly. positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
Page 34 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. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.
Page 35: Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides For Children And Small Adults
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Your vehicle may have this feature already. If it doesn’t, you can get it from any GM dealer. Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for small adults.
Page 36 2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies ﬂat. edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. The guide must be on top of the belt. 1-30...
Page 37: Safety Belt Extender
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you.
Page 38: Child Restraints
Child Restraints What is the proper way to wear safety belts? If possible, an older child should wear a Older Children 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.
Page 39 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? If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, move the child toward the center of the vehicle. See Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults on page 1-29 .
Page 40: Infants And Young Children
CAUTION: (Continued) 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.
Page 41 CAUTION: People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t 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.
Page 42 CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inﬂates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer outstanding protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants.
Page 43 For most basic types of child restraints, there are many different models available. When purchasing a CAUTION: child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle The body structure of a young child is quite safety standards.
Page 44: Child Restraint Systems
Child Restraint Systems 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, An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.
Page 45 A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes improve the ﬁt of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high-back booster seats have a ﬁve-point harness.
Page 46 When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child How do child restraints work? restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor A child restraint system is any device designed for vehicle safety standards.
Page 47: Where To Put The Restraint
Where to Put the Restraint CAUTION: (Continued) Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We, Even though the passenger sensing system is therefore, recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat including an infant riding in a rear-facing designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal air infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child...
Page 48: Top Strap
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle –...
Page 49: Top Strap Anchor Location
Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready An anchor loop bracket for a top strap is located on the to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top back of the rear seat frame above the ﬂoor for each strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s rear seating position.
Page 50 This system, designed to make installation of child restraints easier, does not use the vehicle’s safety belts. Instead, it uses vehicle anchors (A, B) and child restraint attachements to secure the restraints. Some restraints also use another vehicle anchor to secure a top tether strap (C).
Page 51: Securing A Child Restraint In A Rear Seat Position
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear CAUTION: Seat Position If a LATCH-type child restraint isn’t attached to its anchorage points, the restraint won’t 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 anchorage points, or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the...
Page 52 If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child 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.
Page 53 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of 5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor to set the lock. the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. 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.
Page 54: Securing A Child Restraint In The Right Front Seat Position
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s Securing a Child Restraint in the safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety Right Front Seat Position belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Page 55 If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system and you need to secure a rear-facing child restraint in CAUTION: the right front passenger’s seat, the passenger’s air bag must be off. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-62 or Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator on A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be page 3-34 for more information on this including seriously injured or killed if the right front...
Page 56 You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See Top Strap on page 1-42 if the child restraint has one. 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.
Page 57 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of 6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor to set the lock. the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. 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.
Page 58: Air Bag Systems
8. If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system Air Bag Systems and you’re using a rear-facing child restraint in this seat, check to be sure the right front passenger’s This part explains the frontal and side impact air bag frontal air bag is off before you begin to drive.
Page 59 Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inﬂating frontal air bag. CAUTION: (Continued) But these air bags must inﬂate very quickly to do their job and comply with federal regulations. or in many side crashes.
Page 60 CAUTION: CAUTION: Both frontal and side impact air bags inﬂate Anyone who is up against, or very close to, with great force, faster than the blink of an any air bag when it inﬂates can be seriously eye. If you’re too close to an inﬂating air bag, injured or killed.
Page 61: Where Are The Air Bags
The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Air Bag Readiness Light on page 3-33 for more information. Where Are the Air Bags? The right front passernger’s frontal air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.
Page 62 If your vehicle has one, the driver’s side impact air bag If your vehicle has one, the right front passenger’s side is in the side of the driver’s seatback closest to the impact air bag is in the side of the passenger’s door.
Page 63: When Should An Air Bag Inﬂate
When Should an Air Bag Inﬂate? CAUTION: Frontal Air Bags The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags If something is between an occupant and an are designed to inﬂate in moderate to severe frontal air bag, the bag might not inﬂate properly or it or near-frontal crashes.
Page 64: Side Impact Air Bags
Seat Position Sensors Air Bag Systems Vehicles with dual stage air bags are also equipped with In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air special sensors which enable the sensing system to bag should have inﬂated simply because of the damage monitor the position of both the driver and passenger to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were.
Page 65: What Makes An Air Bag Inﬂate
What Makes an Air Bag Inﬂate? How Does an Air Bag Restrain? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. For even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or both frontal and side impact air bags, the sensing the instrument panel.
Page 66: What Will You See After An Air Bag Inﬂates
What Will You See After an Air Bag CAUTION: Inﬂates? After the air bag inﬂates, it quickly deﬂates, so quickly When an air bag inﬂates, there is dust in the that some people may not even realize the air bag air.
Page 67 In many crashes severe enough to inﬂate an air bag, • Let only qualiﬁed technicians work on your air bag windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. systems. Improper service can mean that an air Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the bag system won’t work properly.
Page 68: Passenger Sensing System
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 indicator will be visible when you turn your ignition key to START or RUN. The words ON and OFF or the symbol for on and off, will be visible on the rearview mirror during the system Passenger Air Bag check.
Page 69 vehicle has the passenger sensing system and the The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off passenger air bag status indicator shows off. Never put the right front passenger’s frontal air bag if: a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger •...
Page 70 The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off For some children who have outgrown child restraints the passenger’s frontal air bag when a rear facing infant and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system seat, a forward-facing child restraint or a booster seat may or may not turn off the right front passenger’s is detected.
Page 71 CAUTION: (Continued) vehicle serviced promptly, because an adult-size person sitting in the right front passenger’s seat may not have the protection of the frontal air bag. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more on this, including important safety information. Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates.
Page 72: Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Adding Equipment to Your Air Vehicle Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There air bag system parts in several places around Is there anything I might add to the front or your vehicle.
Page 73: Restraint System Check
Restraint System Check CAUTION: (Continued) Checking Your Restraint Systems not properly protect the person using it, Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light resulting in serious injury or even death in a and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly.
Page 74 NOTES 1-68...
Page 75: Table Of Contents
Section 2 Features and Controls Keys ...............2-3 Engine Coolant Heater ........2-30 Remote Keyless Entry System ......2-4 Automatic Transmission Operation ....2-31 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ...2-5 Four-Wheel Drive ..........2-34 Parking Brake ..........2-39 Doors and Locks ..........2-7 Shifting Into Park (P) ........2-40 Door Locks ............2-7 Shifting Out of Park (P) .........2-42 Power Door Locks ..........2-8...
Page 76: Features And Controls
Section 2 Features and Controls ® OnStar System ..........2-53 Rear Storage Area ........2-61 Cargo Cover Panels ........2-61 ® HomeLink Transmitter ........2-55 All-Weather Cargo Area .........2-72 ® Programming the HomeLink Transmitter ..2-56 Top-Box Storage ..........2-77 Storage Areas ..........2-59 Tonneau Cover ..........2-77 Glove Box ...........2-59 Sunroof ............2-84 Center Overhead Console ......2-59...
Page 77 Keys CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
Page 78 Your vehicle has one This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. double-sided key for the Operation is subject to the following two conditions: ignition, all door locks, 1. This device may not cause interference, and tailgate and side storage 2.
Page 79: Remote Keyless Entry System Operation
• You can choose different feedback options for each Check to determine if battery replacement is press of the unlock button, such as having the vehicle’s necessary. See “Battery Replacement” under perimeter lamps come on and/or having the horn Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on chirp.
Page 80: Battery Replacement
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your To replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter, do the following: Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer.
Page 81: Doors And Locks
Doors and Locks There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. You can use the keyless entry system. Door Locks You can use your key. You can also use the manual lock/unlock levers (from the inside). CAUTION: To lock the door from the inside, slide the manual lock/unlock lever rearward.
Page 82 Power Door Locks Delayed Locking When locking the doors with the power lock switch or The power door lock the keyless entry transmitter and a door is open, switches are located on the delayed locking feature will delay locking the doors the driver’s and front until ﬁve seconds after the last door is closed.
Page 83 Programmable Locking Feature 3. Press the door lock switch once. You will hear one, two, or three chimes. The number of chimes tells you The following is the list of available programming which lock mode is currently selected. Continue to options: press the door lock switch until the number of chimes that you hear matches the number of the mode that...
Page 84 Mode 3: All doors unlock when the key is removed 3. Press the door unlock switch once. You will hear from the ignition. one, two, three, or four chimes. The number of chimes tells you which unlock mode is currently Mode 4: No automatic door unlock.
Page 85: Rear Door Security Locks
Rear Door Security Locks To use one of the locks, do the following: 1. Open one of the rear doors. With this feature, you can lock the rear doors so they can’t be opened from the inside by passengers. 2. Move the lever forward to engage the rear door security lock.
Page 86: Lockout Protection
Lockout Protection CAUTION: (Continued) This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door electrical wiring or other cable connections is open. must pass through the seal between the body If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the midgate: and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock...
Page 87 The following are the main components of the midgate Rear Glass Removal and Storage system: CAUTION: If the removable rear glass is not stored properly, it could be thrown about the vehicle in a crash or sudden maneuver. People in the vehicle could be injured.
Page 88 2. Squeeze and pull down the latch levers (A), located 3. While holding the rear glass in place, press the near the upper corners of the rear glass, so they glass-catch release button and pull the top of the unlatch. After both latch levers are unlatched, rear glass toward you using the grab handle(s) (B) the glass-catch release button (C) will catch the rear located at the top of the rear glass.
Page 89 4. With the rear glass tilted toward you, lift it out from the lower window frame channel. Use the grab handles to assist you in removing the rear glass. 5. Load the rear glass in its storage pocket in the midgate using the lower edge of the rear glass to guide it behind the three rear glass retaining tabs (E).
Page 90 Once both glass lock knobs are in the locked 6. Turn both glass lock knobs (D), located at both top position, the rear glass is securely stored. corners of the storage pocket, to the locked position. You may need to push the corner of the 7.
Page 91 Reinstalling the Rear Glass To reinstall the rear glass, do the following: 1. Squeeze and pull down the latch levers (A), located near the upper corners of the rear glass, so they unlatch. 4. With the rear glass tilted at an angle, place the bottom edge in the lower channel of the window frame.
Page 92 Be sure to align the rear glass side-to-side using the alignment arrows (G) as shown in the picture. 5. Apply a ﬁrm downward pressure and then push the 6. Use one hand to push the rear glass ﬂat against rear glass ﬂat against the window frame. Use the the window frame and with your free hand push grab handles at the top of the rear glass to each latch lever up until it locks.
Page 93 To lower the Midgate, do the following: 1. Fold the rear seats. The front seats might have to be moved forward slightly to allow the rear seats to fold. See Rear Seat Operation on page 1-8 for more information. At this point you may choose to remove the rear glass following the instructions given previously or leave the rear glass in place.
Page 94 Rear Glass Stored in Glass Storage Pocket If you lower the Midgate with the rear glass in the stored position, you will notice that the entire crossbar Standing outside of the vehicle, place one hand against (the bar with the release handle) will lower with the the crossbar so the Midgate does not fall forward Midgate.
Page 95: Tailgate Removal
Raising the Midgate Tailgate Removal To return the Midgate to its normal position, raise the The tailgate on your vehicle can be removed to allow for Midgate up with a ﬁrm swinging motion (this will help to different loading situations. Although the tailgate can ensure that the Midgate closes with enough force to be removed without assistance, you may want someone engage the latches) until it latches into place securely.
Page 96 Reverse the above procedure to reinstall. Make sure the tailgate is secure. 2. With the tailgate at a slight upward angle, pull back on the tailgate at the right edge so it releases from the block hinge (arrow) and then move the tailgate to the right to release the left edge.
Page 97 Windows CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.
Page 98: Power Windows
Power Windows Express-Down Windows The driver’s and front passenger’s window switches have an express-down feature that allows you to lower the window without continuously pressing the switch. Press the top of the window switch down brieﬂy to activate the feature. Lightly tap the switch to open the window slightly.
Page 99 Theft-Deterrent Systems If a locked door is opened without the key or the remote keyless entry transmitter, the alarm will go off. The Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. headlamps and parking lamps will ﬂash for two minutes, Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent and the horn will sound for 30 seconds, then will turn features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it...
Page 100: Testing The Alarm
® Testing the Alarm Passlock ® The alarm can be tested by following these steps: Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock theft-deterrent system. 1. From inside the vehicle, lower the driver’s window ® ® Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. Passlock and open the driver’s door.
Page 101: Starting And Operating Your Vehicle
Starting and Operating Your Ignition Positions Vehicle With your key in the ignition switch you can turn it to four different positions. New Vehicle Break-In Notice: Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: •...
Page 102: Retained Accessory Power (Rap)
Notice: If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you Notice: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your can’t turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the so, is it all the way in? Turn the key only with transaxle.
Page 103: Adjustable Throttle And Brake Pedal
2. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then The vehicle must be in PARK (P) for this feature to stops), it could be ﬂooded with too much gasoline. operate. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the The buttons used to adjust ﬂoor and holding it there as you hold the key in the pedals are located on...
Page 104: Engine Coolant Heater
Engine Coolant Heater 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. Your vehicle may be equipped with an engine coolant heater. CAUTION: In very cold weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet engine coolant heater can could cause an electrical shock.
Page 105: Automatic Transmission Operation
Automatic Transmission Operation CAUTION: (Continued) Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission and features an electronic shift position indicator To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even located within the instrument panel cluster. when you’re on fairly level ground, always set There are several different positions for your shift lever.
Page 106 REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty. is moving forward could damage your transmission.
Page 107 If you manually select SECOND (2), the transmission Tow/Haul Mode will drive in second gear. You may use this feature for reducing the speed of the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces.
Page 108: Front Axle Locking Feature
Four-Wheel Drive Front Axle Locking Feature The front axle locks and unlocks automatically when If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can send your you shift the transfer case. Some delay for the axle to engine’s driving power to all four wheels for extra lock or unlock is normal.
Page 109 AUTO 4WD: This setting is ideal for use when road conditions are variable. When driving your vehicle in AUTO 4WD, the front axle is engaged, but the vehicle’s power is sent only to the rear wheels. When the vehicle senses a loss of traction, the system will automatically engage four-wheel drive.
Page 110 If the SERVICE 4WD message stays on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. See ″Service CAUTION: 4WD message″ under Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-46 . Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can Shifting into 4HI or AUTO 4WD cause your vehicle to roll even if the Press and release the 4 hi or AUTO 4WD switch.
Page 111 Notice: Shifting the transmission into gear before Notice: Shifting the transmission into gear before the 4LO indicator light has stopped ﬂashing the 4LO indicator light has stopped ﬂashing could damage the transfer case. To help avoid could damage the transfer case. To help avoid damaging your vehicle, always wait for the 4LO damaging your vehicle, always wait for the 4LO indicator light to stop ﬂashing before shifting your...
Page 112 Shifting into NEUTRAL Shifting Out of NEUTRAL To shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL do the following: To shift out of NEUTRAL: 1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake 1. Make sure the vehicle is parked so that it will not pedal.
Page 113: Parking Brake
Excessively shifting the transfer case into or out of the different modes may cause the transfer case to enter the shift protection mode. This will protect the transfer case from possible damage and will only allow the transfer case to respond to one shift per 10 seconds.
Page 114: Shifting Into Park (P)
Shifting Into Park (P) 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like this: 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.
Page 115: Leaving Your Vehicle With The Engine Running
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running 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, your vehicle will be free to roll –...
Page 116: Shifting Out Of Park (P)
After you move the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the Shifting Out of Park (P) regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without ﬁrst Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock pulling it toward you.
Page 117: Parking Over Things That Burn
Parking Over Things That Burn CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. 2-43...
Page 118: Engine Exhaust
Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You Are Parked CAUTION: It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or CAUTION: smell.
Page 119 CAUTION: CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if Four-wheel drive vehicles with the transfer the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the case in NEUTRAL will allow the vehicle to roll, parking brake ﬁrmly set. Your vehicle can roll. even if your shift lever is in PARK (P).
Page 120: Temperature And Compass Display
Mirrors Temperature and Compass Display Press the on/off button, located to the far left, brieﬂy to turn the comp/temp display on or off. Manual Rearview Mirror If the display reads CAL, you will need to calibrate the Twist the tab under the mirror to reduce glare from compass.
Page 121: Compass Variance
2. Turn off the electrochromic mirror function by pressing and holding the on/off button for approximately six seconds until the green indicator light turns off. 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.
Page 122: Compass Calibration
Compass Calibration Cleaning the Mirror The compass may need calibration if one of the When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar following occurs: material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause •...
Page 123: Compass Operation
Temperature Display Compass Operation The temperature can be displayed by pressing the Press the COMP button once brieﬂy to turn the compass TEMP button. Pressing the TEMP button once brieﬂy, on or off. will toggle the temperature reading on and off. To When the ignition and the compass feature are on, the alternate the temperature reading between Fahrenheit compass will show two character boxes for...
Page 124 In order to calibrate, CAL must be displayed in the To adjust for compass variance: mirror compass windows. If CAL is not displayed, push 1. Find your current location and variance zone in the COMP button for approximately eight seconds number on the following zone map.
Page 125: Outside Power Mirrors
Cleaning the Mirror Outside Power Mirrors Use a paper towel or similar material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the The controls are located mirror as that may cause the liquid cleaner to enter on the driver’s door the mirror housing.
Page 126: Outside Heated Mirrors
If the mirrors are accidently manually folded in or you Outside Heated Mirrors notice that the mirrors will not stay in the unfolded position, unfold and fold them at least twice using the Your vehicle may have this feature. mirror controls. Do not unfold them manually. The mirrors may not stay in place otherwise.
Page 127: Onstar System
® Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror OnStar System with Curb View Assist Your vehicle may have this feature. The driver’s outside mirror will adjust for the glare of the headlamps behind you. See Automatic Dimming ® Rearview Mirror with OnStar , Compass and Temperature Display on page 2-46 .
Page 128: Onstar Services
® ® OnStar Services OnStar Personal Calling ® ® OnStar provides a number of service plans to closely With OnStar Personal Calling, you have a safer way to meet your needs. Some of the services currently stay connected while driving. It’s a hands-free wireless ®...
Page 129: Onstar Steering Wheel Controls
® ® OnStar Steering Wheel Controls HomeLink , a combined universal transmitter and receiver, provides a way to replace up to three hand-held transmitters used to activate devices such as : If your vehicle is gate operators, garage door openers, entry door equipped with the steering locks, security systems and home lighting.
Page 130: Programming The Homelink Transmitter
® Programming the HomeLink It is recommended that a new battery be installed in your hand-held transmitter for quicker and more Transmitter accurate transmission of the radio frequency. Your vehicle’s engine should be turned off while ® Do not use the HomeLink Transmitter with any garage programming the transmitter.
Page 131: Gate Operator And Canadian Programming
® If the indicator light stays on constantly, programming HomeLink should now activate your rolling-code is complete and your device should activate when the equipped device. ® HomeLink button is pressed and released. ® To program the remaining two HomeLink buttons, ®...
Page 132: Using Homelink
® ® Using HomeLink Reprogramming a Single HomeLink Button ® Press and hold the appropriate HomeLink button for at least half of a second. The indicator light will come ® ® To program a device to HomeLink using a HomeLink on while the signal is being transmitted.
Page 133: Storage Areas
Storage Areas The storage compartment has a cassette/compact disc holder. The holder will store up to 6 compact disc cases and 5 cassette tape cases or a total of Glove Box 11 cassette tape cases. If not used to store cassette or compact disc cases, the To open your glove box, pull the lever upward and pull storage area can be used to store a laptop computer.
Page 134: Luggage Carrier
Luggage Carrier Be sure the cargo is properly loaded. • If small heavy objects are placed on the roof cut a You can load things on top of your vehicle with this piece of 3/8 inch plywood to ﬁt inside the crossrails feature.
Page 135: Rear Storage Area
Rear Storage Area Cargo Cover Panels Your vehicle is equipped with a rear armrest/cupholder for the rear seat passengers. CAUTION: To open it, pull up and then out on the tab, located at the top center of the armrest, and pull the armrest down. Improperly stored cargo cover panels could be thrown about the vehicle during a collision or sudden maneuver.
Page 136 To remove a cargo panel(s), do the following: There are also numbered labels on the bottom of the panels. The numbers on the top and bottom of the 1. Lower the tailgate. Use the ignition/door key to panels will be used as reference when removing, storing unlock the tailgate if it is locked.
Page 137 3. Pull the cargo panel up and then out from the side rails and set it aside. You only need to remove as many cargo panels as needed for your cargo carrying needs. 5. Remove cargo panel 1 (if you need to), but notice that there are four latches to release (two left-side latches and two right-side latches).
Page 138: Cargo Panel Storage System
Cargo Panel Storage System 1. Secure the storage bag in the cargo storage The three cargo panels can be stored on either the area by attaching driver’s or passenger’s side of the cargo box using the the four clips on the storage bag.
Page 139 Use the art and following instructions for the proper storage sequence and location for each panel: 2. Starting with cargo panel 1 (the panel with four latches) load the cargo panel with latches facing Panels 3, 2, 1 Loaded outboard (side of panel with no latches should be facing you as you load the panel).
Page 140 3. Store cargo panel 2 by loading the cargo panel with 4. Store cargo panel 3 by loading the cargo panel with latches down and facing inboard (side of panel with latches at the top of the bag and facing outboard latches would be facing you as you load the (side of panel with no latches should be facing you panel).
Page 141 6. Tighten both straps on the bag by pulling on the 7. Close both top and bottom mechanisms at the free end of the straps. center of the bag (bag should now be tightly secured). 2-67...
Page 142: Reinstalling The Cargo Cover Panels
Reinstalling the Cargo Cover Panels You only need to reinstall as many cargo panels as you wish. 1. Remove the cargo panel(s) from the storage bag. You can either leave the bag attached to the side of the cargo area while it is not in use, or you can store it outside of the vehicle.
Page 143 4. Install cargo cover 2 next. Place the latches in the open (unlocked) portion. Place the cargo cover panel on the cargo area rails while holding the back of the cargo panel up. 3. Push both left latches away from you to lock the latches (remember that there are two latches on Left Side Shown, Right Side Similar each side for panel 1).
Page 144 Left Side Shown, Right Side Similar Push the panel forward until it is snug against the other panel and then let the back of the panel down 5. Push the latches away from you (start with the left being sure that the alignment pegs align with the latch) to lock the panel in place.
Page 145: Cargo Tie Downs
Cargo Tie Downs 7. Push the latches away from you (start with the left latch) to lock the panel in place. You should hear a There are eight cargo tie downs in the rear cargo area. click when each latch locks correctly. You can use these to strap cargo in.
Page 146: All-Weather Cargo Area
All-Weather Cargo Area Your vehicle has the ability to operate in many different conﬁgurations (cargo panels on or off, midgate up or down, rear glass in or out), allowing the cargo and passenger area to be open to the environment. To allow the vehicle to operate in these conﬁgurations, it is equipped with many different features to help it resist the elements and protect cargo inside the cargo...
Page 147: Top Drain Grates – Removal And Cleaning
Maintenance and Cleaning Top Drain Grates – Removal and Cleaning To ensure that the water management system performs properly, be sure that the midgate, tailgate and cover system are fully closed and that each element of the water management system is clean and not blocked with debris.
Page 148 To replace the drain grate do the following: 2. Grasp the edges of the grate and pull it out from the vehicle. Flush the drain with clean water. 1. Line up the clips on the vehicle with the slots in the grate.
Page 149: Side Rail Channels
Side Rail Channels Midgate Drain Grate Removal and Cleaning The side rail channels are located on top of both sides of the cargo area. You may want to ﬂush them out with clean water if you notice any debris collecting inside of them.
Page 150: Cargo Area Floor Drains
After hauling dirt, wood chips, pebbles etc. you will need Cargo Area Floor Drains to ﬂush the midgate drain with water. But ﬁrst you will have to remove the drain grate by using the following steps: Your vehicle also has four cargo-area ﬂoor drains located under the cargo mat near the sides of the cargo area.
Page 151: Top-Box Storage
Top-Box Storage Tonneau Cover CAUTION: Improperly stored tonneau cover components could be thrown about the vehicle during a collision or sudden maneuver. You or others could be injured. If you remove the cover, bows and rails, always store them properly in the cargo area.
Page 152: Removing The Tonneau Cover
Your vehicle may be equipped with a tonneau cover. Removing the Tonneau Cover The main components of the tonneau cover are the following: 1. Starting at the rear corner of the driver’s side of the vehicle, pull the loop (F) of the cover toward you A.
Page 153 2. Pull the back of the cover out from the rear rail. 3. Roll the cover toward the front of the vehicle (the plastic lip will release from the siderails as you roll the cover forward.) When you reach the front rail (A), pull the cover out from the front rail and roll up the rest of the cover.
Page 154 To use the storage bag, do the following: 4. Stow the cover using the buckles and the straps attached to the front rail. You can also store the tonneau cover outside of the vehicle or use the storage bag included. 1.
Page 155: Removing The Front/Rear Rails And Bows
Removing the Front/Rear Rails and Bows Before moving on to the next step, you will want to attach the storage bag to the cargo tie downs (if it is not already attached) so you will have a place ready to store the front and back rails and the two bows.
Page 156 2. Remove the two bows (B) by gently pushing them against the spring-loaded end. Set the bow aside. 3. With the midgate lowered, enter the rear passenger compartment of the vehicle. See Midgate on page 2-12 . 4. Remove the front rail (A) (near the midgate) by ﬁrst twisting up the edge nearest you (this helps clear the midgate seals) and then pulling it out from the side rails.
Page 157 • Both bows are the same size and therefore interchangeable. • When placing the bows in the side rails, it is easiest to place the spring-loaded bow end in ﬁrst. • When placing the bows, locate the small notches (arrow) in the side rails.
Page 158: Sunroof
Sunroof The sunroof is also equipped with a sunshade which you can pull forward to block sun rays. If a hand, arm, or other object is blocking the sunroof glass panel as it is closing, the glass panel will stop at the obstruction.
Page 159: Vehicle Personalization
Vehicle Personalization To store your memory seat, throttle and brake pedals, mirrors and radio presets, do the following: 1. Adjust the driver’s seat (including the seatback Memory Seat recliner, lumbar, and side wing area), throttle and brake pedals, both of the outside mirrors, and If your vehicle has this the radio station presets to your preference.
Page 160: Easy Exit Seat
If you use the unlock button on the remote keyless entry To store the seat exit position for driver 1 or 2, do the transmitter to enter your vehicle, the preset driver’s following: seat, throttle and brake pedal, mirror positions and the 1.
Page 161 Section 3 Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Overview .......3-4 Air Bag Readiness Light ........3-33 Hazard Warning Flashers ........3-6 Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator ....3-34 Other Warning Devices ........3-6 Charging System Light ........3-36 Horn .............3-7 Voltmeter Gage ..........3-36 Tilt Wheel .............3-7 Brake System Warning Light ......3-37 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever ......3-7 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light .....3-38 Exterior Lamps ..........3-13...
Page 162 Section 3 Instrument Panel Audio System(s) ..........3-64 Understanding Radio Reception ....3-102 Setting the Time ...........3-64 Care of Your CDs and DVDs ......3-103 Radio with CD ..........3-65 Care of Your CD and DVD Player ....3-103 Radio with Six-Disc CD .........3-76 Cleaning the Video Screen ......3-103 Rear Seat Entertainment System ....3-90 Fixed Mast Antenna ........3-103 Rear Seat Audio (RSA) .........3-99...
Page 163 NOTES...
Page 164: Instrument Panel Overview
Instrument Panel Overview...
Page 165 The main components of your instrument panel are the J. Fog Lamps Button. See Exterior Lamps on page 3-13 . following: A. Air Outlets. See Outlet Adjustment on page 3-28 . K. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. See Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7 . B.
Page 166: Hazard Warning Flashers
Hazard Warning Flashers The hazard warning ﬂasher button is located on the top of the steering column. Your hazard warning ﬂashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in. Press the button to make the front and rear turn signal lamps ﬂash on and off.
Page 167: Horn
Horn Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever To sound the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel. Tilt Wheel The tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle.
Page 168: Turn And Lane Change Signals
Turn and Lane Change Signals Turn Signal On Chime If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two (1.2 km), a chime will sound at each ﬂash of the downward (for left) positions.
Page 169: Windshield Wipers
To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, then (High Speed): For high-speed wiping, turn the release it. band further, to the second solid band past the delay settings. If your headlamps are in the automatic position or on low beam, your high-beam headlamps will turn on.
Page 170: Cruise Control
Cruise Control (Set): Press this button to set the speed. With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about (Off): This position 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot turns the system off. on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips.
Page 171 Setting Cruise Control The cruise light on the instrument panel will illuminate when the cruise control is engaged. CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could Resuming a Set Speed be startled and even lose control.
Page 172 Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Using Cruise Control on Hills Control How well your cruise control will work on hills depends There are two ways to go to a higher speed: upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills.
Page 173: Exterior Lamps
Exterior Lamps AUTO: Turn the control to this position to put the system into automatic headlamp mode. The Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) will also be activated if it is light enough outside. A light near the symbol will be lit when in this mode.
Page 174: Automatic Headlamp System
Automatic Headlamp System If you start your vehicle in a dark garage, the automatic headlamp system will come on immediately. Once When it is dark enough outside and the headlamp you leave the garage, it will take approximately switch is in AUTO, your automatic headlamp system will one minute for the automatic headlamp system to turn on your headlamps at the normal brightness change to DRL if it is light outside.
Page 175: Fog Lamps
The DRL system will come on when the following Fog Lamps conditions are met: If your vehicle has fog lamps you can use them for • The ignition is on, better vision in foggy or misty conditions. Your parking • lamps and/or low-beam headlamps must be on for the exterior lamps control is in AUTO, your fog lamps to work.
Page 176: Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp Switch
The fog lamps will be cancelled after the ignition is If your vehicle has this button, your vehicle may have turned off. If you still want to use the fog lamps after you the snow plow prep package. For further information see restart the vehicle, you will need to press the fog Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment on lamp button again.
Page 177: Interior Lamps
Interior Lamps (Dome Override): Press this button, located below the exterior lamp control, to turn dome lamps off Instrument Panel Brightness even when a door is opened. To return the lamps to automatic operation, press the button again and it The thumbwheel for this feature is located next to the will return to the out position.
Page 178: Exit Lighting
Exit Lighting With exit lighting, the interior lamps will come on when you remove the key from the ignition. The lamps will not come on if the dome override button is pressed in. Reading Lamps If your vehicle has reading lamps, press the button located next to the lamp to turn it on.
Page 179: Accessory Power Outlets
Accessory Power Outlets Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter With accessory power outlets you can power auxiliary If your vehicle has this feature it is located in the center electrical equipment such as a cellular telephone or CB console or on the instrument panel. Pull up on the radio.
Page 180: Climate Controls
Climate Controls 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 Automatic Climate Control System side. The temperature can be adjusted even if the system is turned off. This is possible since outside air With this system, you can control the heating, will always ﬂow through the system as the vehicle cooling and ventilation in your vehicle.
Page 181 Passenger’s Side Temperature Knob Use the steps below to place the entire system in automatic mode: The passenger’s side knob can be used to change the 1. Press the AUTO button. temperature of the air coming through the system on the passenger’s side of the vehicle.
Page 182 2. Set the driver’s and passenger’s temperature. temperature knob. Press the up or down arrows on the fan switch, the defrost button, the AUTO button, or To ﬁnd your comfort setting, start with a 74°F (23°C) the air conditioning button to turn the system on when it temperature setting and allow about 20 minutes is off.
Page 183 If you select recirculation while in defrost, defog or ﬂoor, (Panel): This setting will deliver air to the the light in the button will ﬂash and then go out to let instrument panel outlets. you know that this is not allowed. This is normal and helps to prevent fogging.
Page 184: Air Conditioning
Display Air Conditioning If you press the MODE button to select an air delivery (Air Conditioning): Press this button to turn the air mode, the display will change to show you the selected conditioning (A/C) compressor on and off. The air delivery mode.
Page 185: Rear Window Defogger
(Air Conditioning Off): On some vehicles, when (Front Defrost): Press the front defrost button to you turn the air conditioning off, this symbol will appear defrost the windshield. The system will automatically on the display. If your vehicle does not have this control the fan speed if you select defrost from AUTO symbol, the snowﬂake symbol will turn off to let you mode.
Page 186: Dual Climate Control System
Dual Climate Control System To change the current mode, select one of the following: (Vent): This mode directs air to the instrument With this system you can control the heating, cooling panel vents. and ventilation for your vehicle. (Bi-Level): This mode directs half of the air to the instrument panel vents;...
Page 187 Temperature Control Defogging and Defrosting Driver’s Side: The lever on the left side of the climate There are two modes to choose from to clear fog or control panel is used to raise or lower the temperature frost from your windshield. Use the defog mode to clear on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
Page 188: Outlet Adjustment
Rear Window Defogger Outlet Adjustment If your vehicle has a rear defogger, the lines you see on Use the air outlets located in the center and on the side the rear window warm the glass. The rear window of your instrument panel to direct the airﬂow. defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the Your vehicle has air outlets that allow you to adjust the rear window.
Page 189: Climate Controls Personalization
Operation Tips Climate Controls Personalization • Keep the hood and front air inlets free of ice, snow, If your vehicle is equipped with the electronic climate or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The control system, you can store and recall the climate heater and defroster will work far better, reducing control settings for temperature, air delivery mode and the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.
Page 190: Warning Lights, Gages And Indicators
Warning Lights, Gages and Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages Indicators and warning lights work together to let you know when there’s a problem with your vehicle. This part describes the warning lights and gages on When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on your vehicle.
Page 191: Instrument Panel Cluster
Instrument Panel Cluster United States 2500 series shown, 1500 series, Canada and North Face edition similar 3-31...
Page 192: Speedometer And Odometer
Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a • BUSINESS: XXXXX.X MI — This shows the current glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how distance traveled since the last reset for the fast you’re going, about how much fuel you have business trip odometer.
Page 193: Tachometer
Tachometer Air Bag Readiness Light Your tachometer displays the engine speed in There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument revolutions per minute (rpm). panel, which shows the air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. Notice: Do not operate the engine with the The light tells you if there is an electrical problem.
Page 194: Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator
Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator CAUTION: If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system your rearview mirror will have a passenger air bag status indicator. If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle, it means the air bag system may not be working properly.
Page 195 the status indicator will light either ON or OFF, or either If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the air bag the on or off symbol to let you know the status of the status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing right front passenger’s frontal air bag.
Page 196: Charging System Light
Charging System Light Voltmeter Gage The charging system light When your engine is not will come on brieﬂy when running, but the ignition is you turn on the ignition, in RUN, this gage but the engine is not shows your battery’s state running, as a check to of charge in DC volts.
Page 197: Brake System Warning Light
Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible This light should come on brieﬂy when you turn the problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle ignition key to RUN. If it doesn’t come on then, have it serviced as soon as possible. ﬁxed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.
Page 198: Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Traction Off Light Light If you have the Traction Assist System or the With the anti-lock brake ® Stabilitrak system, this system, this light will come light should come on brieﬂy on when you start your when you turn the engine and may stay on for ignition to RUN.
Page 199: Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
• Engine Coolant Temperature Gage If you move the shift lever to FIRST (1), the light will come on and stay on to indicate that the traction system is off. This is normal operation. To turn the system back on, move the shift lever back to a position other than FIRST (1);...
Page 200: Transmission Temperature Gage
Transmission Temperature Gage See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-46 for further information. If the transmission ﬂuid reaches temperatures of approximately 275°F (135°C) or greater, the DIC will display a TRANS HOT IDLE ENGINE warning message and a chime will sound. Pull the vehicle off the roadway when it is safe to do so.
Page 201: Malfunction Indicator Lamp
A temporary solution to hotter transmission operating Notice: If you keep driving your vehicle with this temperatures may be to let the transmission cool down. light on, after a while, your emission controls If the transmission is operated at higher temperatures may not work as well, your fuel economy may not on a frequent basis, see Scheduled Maintenance be as good and your engine may not run as...
Page 202: If The Light Is On Steady
• If the Light Is On Steady Light On Steady — An emission control system malfunction has been detected on your vehicle. You may be able to correct the emission system Diagnosis and service may be required. malfunction by considering the following: If the Light is Flashing Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle? The following may prevent more serious damage to...
Page 203: Oil Pressure Gage
If you experience one or more of these conditions, designed to evaluate critical emission control systems change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least during normal driving. This may take several days one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. of routine driving.
Page 204: Security Light
® A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by a If the light ﬂashes, the Passlock system has entered a ® tamper mode. If the vehicle fails to start, see Passlock dangerously low oil level or some other problem causing low oil pressure.
Page 205: Tow/Haul Mode Light
Tow/Haul Mode Light 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 This light is displayed fuel, and you should get more fuel as soon as when the tow/haul mode possible.
Page 206: Driver Information Center (Dic)
Driver Information Center (DIC) C (Personalization): This button will change personal options available on your vehicle. The DIC display is located on the instrument panel D (Select): This button resets certain functions and cluster above the steering wheel. The DIC can display turns off or acknowledges messages on the DIC.
Page 207: Trip Information Button
Trip Information Button Personal Trip Turn PERSONAL TRIP on or off by pressing the select Press the trip information button to scroll through the button. When it is on, you will also be able to scroll ODOMETER, PERSONAL TRIP ON/OFF, BUSINESS through the following by pressing the trip information TRIP ON/OFF, HOURMETER, ANNUAL LOG and button:...
Page 208 Business Trip You can also reset the PERSONAL: XX MI, or BUSINESS: XX MI while they are displayed by pressing Turn Business TRIP on or off by pressing the select the reset stem on the cluster. If you press and hold button.
Page 209: Fuel Information Button
Timer Fuel Range The DIC can be used as a stopwatch. Press the select Press the fuel information button until RANGE appears button while TIMER is displayed to start the timer. to display the remaining distance you can drive The display will show the amount of time that has without refueling.
Page 210: Personalization Button
Instant Fuel Economy Personalization Button Press the fuel information button until INST ECON You can program certain features to a preferred setting appears in the display. Instant fuel economy is how for up to two people. Press the personalization button many miles per gallon your vehicle is getting at to scroll through the following personalization features.
Page 211 The driver’s preferences can be recalled by pressing the Automatic Locking unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter Press the personalization button until AUTOMATIC labeled 1 or 2 or by pressing the appropriate memory LOCKING appears in the display. To select your button 1 or 2 located on the driver’s door.
Page 212: Delayed Locking
Automatic Unlocking When locking the doors with the power lock switch or the keyless entry transmitter and a door or the liftgate is Press the personalization button until AUTOMATIC open, the delayed locking feature will delay locking UNLOCKING appears in the display. To select the doors and tailgate until ﬁve seconds after the last your personalization for automatic unlocking, press the door is closed.
Page 213 Seat Position Recall Perimeter Lighting Press the personalization button until SEAT POSITION Press the personalization button until PERIMETER RECALL appears in the display. To select your LIGHTING appears in the display. To select your personalization for seat position recall, press the select personalization for perimeter lighting, press the select button while SEAT POSITION RECALL is displayed button while PERIMETER LIGHTING is displayed on the...
Page 214 Remote Lock Feedback Remote Unlock Feedback Press the personalization button until REMOTE LOCK Press the personalization button until REMOTE FEEDBACK appears in the display. To select your UNLOCK FEEDBACK appears in the display. To select personalization for the feedback you will receive when your personalization for the feedback you will receive locking the vehicle with the remote keyless entry when unlocking the vehicle with the remote keyless...
Page 215 Headlamps on at Exit Curb View Assist Press the personalization button until HEADLAMPS ON Press the personalization button until CURB VIEW AT EXIT appears in the display. To select your ASSIST appears in the display. To select your personalization for how long the headlamps will stay on personalization for curb view assist, press the select when you turn off the vehicle, press the select button button while CURB VIEW ASSIST is displayed on...
Page 216 Easy Exit Driver Seat If you choose English, all information will be displayed in English units. For example, distance in miles and fuel Press the personalization button until EASY EXIT economy in miles per gallon. DRIVER SEAT appears in the display. To select your Choose one of the two options and press the personalization for seat position exit, press the personalization button while it is displayed on the DIC to...
Page 217: Change Engine Oil
You can also scroll through the different languages by CHANGE ENGINE OIL pressing and holding the trip reset stem for four This message is displayed when the engine oil needs to seconds, as long as you are in the odometer mode. be changed.
Page 218: Reduced Engine Power
LOW COOLANT LEVEL REDUCED ENGINE POWER If the engine coolant level is low, this message will This message is displayed and a chime will sound when appear on the DIC. Adding coolant will clear the the cooling system temperature gets too hot and the message.
Page 219: Service Brake System
SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM CAUTION: If a problem occurs with the brake system, this message will appear on the DIC. If this message appears, stop as soon as possible and turn off the vehicle. Restart the Your brake system may not be working vehicle and check for the message on the DIC display.
Page 220: Service 4Wd
SERVICE 4WD FUEL LEVEL LOW If a problem occurs with the four wheel drive system, If the fuel level is low, this message will appear on the this message will appear on the DIC. If this message DIC and you will hear a chime. Refuel as soon as appears, stop as soon as possible and turn off the possible.
Page 221: Transmission Hot
TRANSMISSION HOT A temporary solution to hotter transmission operating temperatures may be to let the transmission cool down. If the transmission ﬂuid temperature becomes high, the If the transmission is operated at higher temperatures message center will display this message. on a frequent basis, see Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-5 for the proper transmission maintenance When the transmission enters the protection mode, you...
Page 222: Passenger Door Ajar
PASSENGER DOOR AJAR still appears on the DIC. Pressing the select button will acknowledge this message and clear it from the DIC If the passenger’s door is not fully closed and the display. vehicle is in a drive gear, this message will appear on RFA # BATTERY LOW the display and you will hear a chime.
Page 223: Service Stability
® SERVICE STABILITY To turn the Stabilitrak system back on, press the ® Stabilitrak button again. There are four conditions that If you ever see the SERVICE STABILITY message, it can cause this message to appear. One condition is means there may be a problem with your ®...
Page 224: Audio System(S)
Audio System(s) Setting the Time Your radio may have a button marked with an H or HR Notice: Before you add any sound equipment to to represent hours and an M or MN to represent your vehicle – like a tape player, CB radio, mobile minutes.
Page 225: Radio With Cd
Radio with CD • display messages from radio stations, and • seek to stations with traffic announcements. This system relies upon receiving speciﬁc information from these stations and will only work when the information is available. In rare cases, a radio station may broadcast incorrect information that will cause the radio features to work improperly.
Page 226: Playing The Radio
Playing the Radio DISP (Display): Push this knob to switch the display between radio station frequency and time. Time display is available with the ignition turned off. PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off. For RDS, push this knob to change what appears on the display while using RDS.
Page 227: Finding A Station
Finding a Station The radio will scan only to stations that are in the selected band and only to those with a strong signal. BAND: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1, To scan preset stations, press and hold one of the FM2, or XM1, XM2 (USA only, if equipped).
Page 228: Setting Preset Stations
Setting Preset Stations Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your AUDIO: Press and release the AUDIO knob until BASS favorite stations. You can set up to 30 stations (six AM, or TREB appears on the display. Turn the knob to six FM1 and six FM2, six XM1 and six XM2 (USA increase or to decrease.
Page 229 Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) 3. Once the desired category is displayed, press the SEEK TYPE button or one of the SEEK arrows to take you to the category’s ﬁrst station. AUDIO: To adjust the balance to the right and the left speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until 4.
Page 230: Rds Messages
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency RDS Messages allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. Press and hold BAND for two ALERT!: Alert warns of local or national emergencies. seconds to turn alternate frequency on. AF ON When an alert announcement comes on the current will appear on the display.
Page 231: Radio Messages
When a message is not available from a station, Your radio will play the traffic announcement even if the NO INFO will be displayed. volume is muted or interrupt the play of a CD if the last tuned station broadcasts traffic announcements. TRAF (Traffic): If TRAF appears on the display, the This function does not apply to XM™...
Page 232 XM™ Radio Messages Radio Display Condition Action Required Message XL (Explicit Language XL on the radio display, These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a Channels) after the channel name, customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696). indicates content with explicit language.
Page 233 XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d) Radio Display Condition Action Required Message No Info Category Name not No category information is available at this time on this available channel. Your system is working properly. No Info No Text/Informational No text or informational messages are available at this message available time on this channel.
Page 234: Playing A Compact Disc
Playing a Compact Disc 2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next track. TRACK and the track number will appear on the Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The display. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than player will pull it in and the disc should begin playing.
Page 235: Compact Disc Messages
SEEK : Press the left arrow to go to the start of (Eject): Press this button to stop a CD when it is the current or to the previous track. Press the right playing or to eject a CD when it is not playing. Eject arrow to go to the start of the next track.
Page 236: Radio With Six-Disc Cd
Radio with Six-Disc CD • display messages from radio stations, and • seek to stations with traffic announcements. This system relies upon receiving speciﬁc information from these stations and will only work when the information is available. In rare cases, a radio station may broadcast incorrect information that will cause the radio features to work improperly.
Page 237 Playing the Radio RCL (Recall): Push this knob to switch the display between the radio station frequency and the time. Pushing this knob with the ignition off will display the PWR (Power): Push this knob to turn the system on time.
Page 238 Finding a Station To scan preset stations, press and hold either SCAN arrow for more than four seconds. PRESET SCAN will appear on the display. You will hear a double beep. BAND: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1, The radio will go to a preset station stored on your FM2, or XM1, XM2 (USA only, if equipped).
Page 239 Setting Preset Stations Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your AUDIO: Push the AUDIO knob until BASS or TREB favorite stations. You can set up to 30 stations (six AM, appears on the display. Turn the knob to increase or to six FM1 and six FM2, six XM1 and six XM2 (USA decrease.
Page 240 Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) Finding a PTY Station (RDS and XM™) To select and ﬁnd a desired PTY perform the following: AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, push the AUDIO knob until BAL 1. Press the P-TYPE button. P-TYPE and the last appears on the display.
Page 241 To use the PTY interrupt feature, press and hold the BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency P-TYPE button until you hear a beep on the PTY allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the you want to interrupt with. When selected, an asterick same program type.
Page 242 RDS Messages TRAF (Traffic): If TRAF appears on the display, the tuned station broadcasts traffic announcements. To receive the traffic announcement from the tuned ALERT!: Alert warns of local or national emergencies. station, press this button. Brackets will be displayed When an alert announcement comes on the current around TRAF and when a traffic announcement comes radio station, ALERT! will appear on the display.
Page 243 XM™ Radio Messages Radio Display Condition Action Required Message XL (Explicit Language XL on the radio display, These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a Channels) after the channel name, customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696). indicates content with explicit language.
Page 244 XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d) Radio Display Condition Action Required Message No Info Category Name not No category information is available at this time on this available channel. Your system is working properly. No Info No Text/Informational No text or informational messages are available at this message available time on this channel.
Page 245 Playing a Compact Disc When a disc is inserted, the CD symbol will be displayed. If you select an equalization setting for your If playing a CD-R the sound quality may be reduced disc, it will be activated each time you play a disc. due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality If the radio is on or off, the disc will begin to play of the music that has been recorded and the way the...
Page 246: Playing A Speciﬁc Loaded Compact Disc
When a disc is inserted, the CD symbol will be REMOVE CD will be displayed. You can now remove displayed. If more than one disc has been loaded, a the disc. If the disc is not removed, after 25 seconds, the number for each disc will be displayed.
Page 247 RPT (Repeat): With repeat, you can repeat one track SEEK : Press the left arrow to go to the start of or an entire disc. To use repeat, do the following: the current track, if more than ten seconds have passed. •...
Page 248: Using Song List Mode
Using Song List Mode If you attempt to save more than 20 selections, S-LIST FULL will appear on the display. The integrated six-disc CD changer has a feature called To play the song list, press the SONG LIST button. One song list.
Page 249: Listening To A Dvd
To delete the entire song list, perform the following • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and steps: try again. 1. Turn the disc player on. • There may have been a problem while burning the 2.
Page 250: Rear Seat Entertainment System
Rear Seat Entertainment System The DVD player will also play audio CDs. Home recorded CDs (CD-R or CD-RW formats) will not play in this DVD player. Your vehicle may have the optional Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system. The If an error message appears on the video screen, see RSE system includes a DVD player, a video display “DVD Messages”...
Page 251 Some DVDs will not allow you to fast forward or skip (Stop): Press this button to stop the play of the the copyright or previews. Some DVDs will begin playing DVD player. Press this button twice to return to after the previews have ﬁnished. If the DVD does not the beginning of the DVD.
Page 252 DVD Messages Parental Control Button: This button is located on the front of the DVD console, behind the video screen, The following errors may be displayed on the video near the driver of the vehicle. Press this button while a screen: DVD or CD is playing to freeze the video and mute •...
Page 253: Video Screen
Video Screen Remote Control The video screen is located in the overhead console. To To use the remote control, aim it at the infrared window use the video screen, push forward on the release below the video screen and press the desired button. latch and the screen will fold down.
Page 254 Remote Control Buttons (Display Menu): Press this button to modify the video screen display characteristics. (Audio): Press this button to call-up a menu that will operate only when a DVD is being played. The format and content of this function is deﬁned by the disc and is dependent of the disc.
Page 255 Press the button, located on the bottom left of the (Fast Forward): Press this button to fast forward numeric key pad, to select chapter, title, and track the DVD or CD. To stop fast forwarding, press this numbers greater than 9. button again.
Page 256: Stereo Rca Jacks
Notice: Do not store the remote control in heat or Battery Replacement direct sunlight. This could damage the remote To change the batteries, do the following: control and it would not be covered by your vehicles warranty. Keep the remote control stored in a 1.
Page 257: Audio Output
To use the auxiliary inputs on the RSE system, connect Audio Output an external auxiliary device to the color-coded RCA Audio from the DVD player or auxiliary inputs may be jacks and turn both the auxiliary device and the heard through the following possible sources: RSE system power on.
Page 258 Problem Recommended Action Problem Recommended Action No power. The ignition might not be In auxiliary mode, the Check the signal coming in on or accessory. picture moves or scrolls. from the auxiliary device The parental control and make sure that the button might have been connection and the signal pressed.
Page 259: Rear Seat Audio (Rsa)
Problem Recommended Action Problem Recommended Action After stopping the player, I If the stop button was Sometimes the wireless This could be caused by push Play but sometimes pressed one time, the headphone audio cuts out interference from cellular the DVD starts where I DVD player will resume or buzzes.
Page 260: Rear Seat Audio Controls
Rear Seat Audio Controls (Volume): Turn the knob to increase or to decrease volume. The left knob controls the left headphone and the right knob controls the right headphone. SRC (Source): Press this button to select an audio source: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, DVDs, XM™ (USA only, if equipped) depending on your vehicles options.
Page 261: Theft-Deterrent Feature
PROG (Program): The front passengers must be Audio Steering Wheel Controls listening to something different for each of these functions to work: You can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel. • Press this button to go to the preset radio stations set on the pushbuttons on the main radio.
Page 262: Dvd Distortion
Understanding Radio Reception SOURCE : Press this button to select AM, FM1 or FM2, XM1 or XM2 (USA only, if equipped), or a cassette tape or CD. The cassette or CD must be loaded to play. Available loaded sources are shown on the The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, display as a tape or a CD symbol.
Page 263: Care Of Your Cds And Dvds
Care of Your CDs and DVDs Fixed Mast Antenna Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases The ﬁxed mast antenna can withstand most car washes or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight without being damaged. If the mast should ever and dust.
Page 264 Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ..4-2 Freeway Driving ...........4-37 Defensive Driving ...........4-2 Before Leaving on a Long Trip .......4-38 Drunken Driving ..........4-3 Highway Hypnosis ........4-39 Control of a Vehicle ........4-6 Hill and Mountain Roads ........4-39 Braking ............4-6 Winter Driving ..........4-41 Traction Assist System (TAS) ......4-10...
Page 265: Your Driving, The Road, And Your Vehicle
Your Driving, the Road, and Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough following Your Vehicle distance. It’s the best defensive driving maneuver, in both city and rural driving. You never know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or turn Defensive Driving suddenly.
Page 266: Drunken Driving
Drunken Driving Many adults — by some estimates, nearly half the adult population — choose never to drink alcohol, so they never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is it’s against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol. a national tragedy.
Page 267 According to the American Medical Association, a 180 lb BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who (82 kg) person who drinks three 12 ounce (355 ml) consumes food just before or during drinking will have a bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC somewhat lower BAC level.
Page 268 But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of There’s something else about drinking and driving that 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills many people don’t know. Medical research shows of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching that alcohol in a person’s system can make crash 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night.
Page 269: Control Of A Vehicle
Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go where Braking action involves perception time and reaction you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and time. the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal.
Page 270: Anti-Lock Brake System
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in When you start your engine and begin to drive away, spurts — heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking your anti-lock brake system will check itself. You — rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while mistake.
Page 271 The anti-lock system 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’s say the road is wet and you’re driving safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you.
Page 272: Braking In Emergencies
Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need system is operating, you may hear a motor running or to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always feel a slight vibration in the steering wheel or brake decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the pedal.
Page 273: Traction Assist System (Tas)
Traction Assist System (TAS) When the traction off light is on, the TAS is off and will not limit wheel Your vehicle may have a Traction Assist System (TAS) spin. Adjust your driving that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery accordingly.
Page 274: Locking Rear Axle
The Traction Assist System, as delivered from the If desired, you can change the TAS automatic factory, will automatically come on whenever you start engagement feature so that the system will not come on your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in automatically when the engine is started.
Page 275: Stabilitrak System
® Stabilitrak System The STABILITY SYS ACTIVE message will appear on the Driver Information Center (DIC) only when the ® system is both on and activated. You may also feel or Your vehicle may be equipped with Stabilitrak which combines antilock brake, traction and stability control hear the system working;...
Page 276: Traction Control Operation
® When the Stabilitrak system has been turned off you This can cause the brake-traction control to activate may still hear system noises as a result of the constantly. For more information on the traction active brake-traction control coming on. message, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-46 .
Page 277: Steering
of the transmission. When this happens you may notice Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to a reduction in acceleration, or may hear a noise or the same laws of physics when driving on curves. vibration. This is normal. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when If your vehicle is in cruise control when the system...
Page 278: Steering In Emergencies
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.
Page 279: Off-Road Recovery
Off-Road Recovery Passing You may ﬁnd that your right wheels have dropped off The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, driving.
Page 280 • • Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder and pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For start your left lane change signal before moving out one thing, following too closely reduces your area of the right lane to pass.
Page 281: Loss Of Control
Loss of Control If you have the Traction Assist System, remember: It helps avoid only the acceleration skid. If you do not have this system, or if the system is off, then an acceleration Let’s review what driving experts say about what skid is also best handled by easing your foot off the happens when the three control systems (brakes, accelerator pedal.
Page 282: Off-Road Driving With Your Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle
Off-Road Driving with Your Before You Go Off-Roading Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle There are some things to do before you go out. For example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel and service work done. Check to make sure all drive.
Page 283: Loading Your Vehicle For Off-Road Driving
Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road CAUTION: (Continued) Driving There are some important things to remember about • Unsecured cargo on the load ﬂoor can be how to load your vehicle. tossed about when driving over rough • The heaviest things should be on the load ﬂoor and terrain.
Page 284: Environmental Concerns
Environmental Concerns Traveling to Remote Areas Off-road driving can provide wholesome and satisfying It makes sense to plan your trip, especially when going recreation. However, it also raises environmental to a remote area. Know the terrain and plan your concerns. We recognize these concerns and urge every route.
Page 285: Scanning The Terrain
Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful off-road Scanning the Terrain driving. One of the best ways to control your vehicle Off-road driving can take you over many different kinds is to control your speed. Here are some things to keep of terrain.
Page 286: Driving On Off-Road Hills
When you drive over obstacles or rough terrain, keep a Driving on Off-Road Hills ﬁrm grip on the steering wheel. Ruts, troughs or Off-road driving often takes you up, down or across a other surface features can jerk the wheel out of your hill.
Page 287: Approaching A Hill
Approaching a Hill Driving Uphill When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it’s one Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you of those hills that’s just too steep to climb, descend need to take some special steps. or cross.
Page 288 • • Sound the horn as you approach the top of the hill If your engine has stopped running, you’ll need to to let opposing traffic know you’re there. restart it. With the brake pedal pressed and the parking brake still applied, shift the transmission to •...
Page 289: Driving Downhill
• Never attempt to turn around if you are about to CAUTION: (Continued) stall when going up a hill. If the hill is steep enough to stall your vehicle, it’s steep enough to cause you to roll over if you turn around. If you can’t overrides the transmission.
Page 290 If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to • Never go downhill with the transmission in keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a NEUTRAL (N). This is called “free-wheeling.” Your low gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes brakes will have to do all the work and could and they won’t have to do all the work.
Page 291: Driving Across An Incline
Driving Across an Incline For reasons like these, you need to decide carefully whether to try to drive across an incline. Just because Sooner or later, an off-road trail will probably go across the trail goes across the incline doesn’t mean you the incline of a hill.
Page 292: Stalling On An Incline
Stalling on an Incline CAUTION: If your vehicle stalls when you’re crossing an incline, be sure you (and your passengers) get out on the uphill side, even if the door there is harder to open. If you get Getting out on the downhill (low) side of a out on the downhill side and the vehicle starts to roll vehicle stopped across an incline is over, you’ll be right in its path.
Page 293: Driving In Water
When you drive on sand, you’ll sense a change in Driving in Water wheel traction. But it will depend upon how loosely Heavy rain can mean ﬂash ﬂooding, and ﬂood waters packed the sand is. On loosely packed sand (as demand extreme caution.
Page 294: After Off-Road Driving
After Off-Road Driving CAUTION: Remove any brush or debris that has collected on the underbody, chassis or under the hood. These accumulations can be a ﬁre hazard. Driving through rushing water can be After operation in mud or sand, have the brake linings dangerous.
Page 295: Driving At Night
Driving at Night Here are some tips on night driving. • Drive defensively. • Don’t drink and drive. • Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. • Since you can’t see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.
Page 296: Driving In Rain And On Wet Roads
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads 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 doesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps), slow down a little.
Page 297 The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your Driving too fast through large water puddles or even windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy going through some car washes can cause problems, rain can make it harder to see road signs and too.
Page 298: Driving Through Flowing Water
Hydroplaning Driving Through Flowing Water Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the CAUTION: water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.
Page 299: City Driving
City Driving 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.
Page 300: Freeway Driving
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.
Page 301: Before Leaving On A Long Trip
Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to serviced and maintained, it’s ready to go. If it needs move slightly slower at night. service, have it done before starting out.
Page 302: Highway Hypnosis
Highway Hypnosis Hill and Mountain Roads Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy.
Page 303 If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make CAUTION: your trips safer and more enjoyable. See Off-Road Driving with Your Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle on page 4-19 for information about driving off-road. If you don’t shift down, your brakes could get •...
Page 304: Winter Driving
• Winter Driving Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission, and you can climb the hill better. • Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane roads in hills or mountains.
Page 305: Driving On Snow Or Ice
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 a couple of 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.
Page 306 Whatever the condition – smooth ice, packed, blowing Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability or loose snow – drive with caution. when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have an anti-lock braking system, If you have traction assist, keep the system on.
Page 307: If You're Caught In A Blizzard
If You’re Caught in a Blizzard • Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, ﬂoor mats – anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.
Page 308: If You Are 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 CAUTION: again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible.
Page 309: Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out
Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out CAUTION: First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, shift into 4HI or 4LO. If If you let your tires spin at high speed, they your vehicle has the Traction Assist System, you should can explode, and you or others could be turn it off by pressing the TAS on/off button.
Page 310: Using The Recovery Hooks
Using the Recovery Hooks CAUTION: Your vehicle is equipped with recovery hooks. The hooks are provided at the front of your vehicle. You may need to use them if you’re stuck off-road and need to These hooks, when used, are under a lot of be pulled to some place where you can continue driving.
Page 311: Towing
Towing With the proper preparation and equipment, many vehicles can be towed in these ways. See “Dinghy Towing” and “Dolly Towing,” following. Towing Your Vehicle Here are some important things to consider before you do recreational vehicle towing: Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if •...
Page 312: Dinghy Towing
Dinghy Towing Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Use the following procedure to correctly tow you vehicle on all four wheels: 1. Firmly set the parking brake. 2. Shift the transmission to PARK (P). 3. Securely attach the vehicle being towed to the tow vehicle.
Page 313: Dolly Towing
5. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles being towed is ﬁrmly attached to the towing Two-wheel-drive vehicles should not be towed with the vehicle. rear wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive 6. When the vehicle is properly attached to the tow transmission have no provisions for internal lubrication vehicle and is ready to be towed, turn the ignition while being towed.
Page 314: Loading Your Vehicle
Loading Your Vehicle 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.
Page 315 The Certiﬁcation/Tire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross CAUTION: Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To ﬁnd out the actual loads on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle.
Page 316: Add-On Equipment
Add-On Equipment CAUTION: When you carry removable items, you may need to put a limit on how many people you can carry inside your vehicle. Be sure to weigh your vehicle before you Things you put inside your vehicle can strike buy and install the new equipment.
Page 317: Adding A Snow Plow Or Similar Equipment
A hydraulic pump inside each rear shock absorber your vehicle can carry will be reduced when a snow raises the rear of the vehicle to the proper height, based plow is installed. Your vehicle can be damaged if on inputs from the road surface, while the vehicle is either the front or rear axle ratings, or the GVW, are being driven.
Page 318 Say, for example, you have a 700 lb. (318 kg) snow What is front axle reserve capacity, and how do plow. The total weight of all occupants and cargo inside I calculate it? the cab should not exceed 300 lb. (135 kg). This Front axle reserve capacity is the difference means that you may only be able to carry one passenger.
Page 319 In order to calculate the amount of weight any front For example, adding a 700 lb. (318 kg) snow plow accessory, such as a snow plow, is adding to the front actually adds more than 700 lb. (318 kg) to the front axle, use the following formula: axle.
Page 320: Truck-Camper Loading Information
What is total vehicle reserve capacity? CAUTION: This is the difference between your GVWR and the weight of your truck with full fuel and passengers. It’s the amount of weight you can add On some vehicles equipped with certain front to your vehicle before reaching your GVWR.
Page 321: Trailer Recommendations
Trailer Recommendations Towing a Trailer You must subtract your hitch loads from the Cargo Weight Rating (CWR). CWR is the maximum weight of CAUTION: the load your vehicle can carry. It doesn’t include the weight of the people inside. But you can ﬁgure about 150 lbs.
Page 322: If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
If yours was built with trailering options, as many are, • Don’t tow a trailer at all during the ﬁrst 500 miles it’s ready for heavier trailers. But trailering is different (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, than just driving your vehicle by itself.
Page 323 Tow/Haul Mode Tow/haul is designed to be most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75% of Tow/haul is a feature that assists when pulling a heavy the vehicle’s Gross Combination Weight Rating trailer or a large or heavy load. The purpose of the (GCWR).
Page 324: Weight Of The Trailer
Weight of the Trailer of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the How heavy can a trailer safely be? maximum trailer weight. It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For Above the 5,000 lbs.
Page 325: Weight Of The Trailer Tongue
Vehicle Axle Ratio *Maximum Trailer **GCWR Weight 3.73 10,200 lbs. (4 627 kg) 17,000 lbs. (7 711 kg) C-2500 (2WD) 4.10 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) 19,000 lbs. (8 618 kg) 8100 V8 3.73 9,900 lbs. (4 491 kg) 17,000 lbs. (7 711 kg) K-2500 (4WD) 4.10 11,900 lbs.
Page 326: Total Weight On Your Vehicle's Tires
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inﬂated to the upper limit for cold tires. You’ll ﬁnd these numbers on the Certiﬁcation label at the rear edge of the driver’s door or see Tires on page 5-61 . Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW and rear axle limits for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue.
Page 327: Safety Chains
• Your trailer brake system can tap into the vehicle’s Will you have to make any holes in the body of hydraulic brake system only if: your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? • The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi (20 650 If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch.
Page 328: Making Turns
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform Making Turns (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and could cause the trailer to come in contact with the then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be vehicle.
Page 329: Driving On Grades
Driving On Grades Parking on Hills Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift CAUTION: down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. You really should not park your vehicle, with a You can tow in DRIVE (D).
Page 330: Maintenance When Trailer Towing
5. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure the When You Are Ready to Leave After transfer case is in a drive gear and not in Parking on a Hill NEUTRAL (N). 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down 6.
Page 331: Trailer Wiring Harness
Trailer Wiring Harness The Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) wire is tied next to the trailer wiring harness for use with a Heavy-Duty Trailer Wiring Package trailer. The eight-wire harness contains the following trailer circuits: • Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal • Dark Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal •...
Page 332 Auxiliary Battery The auxiliary battery circuit is protected by a megafuse located behind the auxiliary battery. The auxiliary battery provision can be used to supply Be sure to follow the proper installation instructions that electrical power to additional equipment that you are included with any electrical equipment that you may choose to add.
Page 333 NOTES 4-70...
Page 334 Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Service ............5-3 Power Steering Fluid ........5-36 Doing Your Own Service Work ......5-4 Windshield Washer Fluid ........5-38 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Brakes ............5-39 Vehicle ............5-4 Battery ............5-42 Jump Starting ..........5-43 Fuel ..............5-5 Gasoline Octane ..........5-5 Rear Axle ............5-49 Gasoline Speciﬁcations ........5-5...
Page 335 Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Tires ..............5-61 Sheet Metal Damage ........5-93 Inﬂation -- Tire Pressure ........5-62 Finish Damage ..........5-93 Tire Inspection and Rotation ......5-62 Underbody Maintenance ........5-94 When It Is Time for New Tires .......5-64 Chemical Paint Spotting .........5-94 Buying New Tires .........5-64 Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials ....5-94 Uniform Tire Quality Grading ......5-65...
Page 336: Service
Service We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs.
Page 337: Doing Your Own Service Work
Doing Your Own Service Work CAUTION: If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this You can be injured and your vehicle could be manual can.
Page 338: Fuel
Fuel Gasoline Speciﬁcations It is recommended that gasoline meet speciﬁcations Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of the which were developed by the American Automobile proper maintenance of your vehicle. Manufacturers Association and endorsed by the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association for better Gasoline Octane vehicle performance and engine protection.
Page 339: California Fuel
California Fuel General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines, particularly if they comply with the speciﬁcations described earlier. If your vehicle is certiﬁed to meet California Emission Standards (see the underhood emission control label), it Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that is designed to operate on fuels that meet California contains methanol.
Page 340: Fuels In Foreign Countries
Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to ﬁnd. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Page 341 CAUTION: If you get fuel on yourself 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”...
Page 342: Filling A Portable Fuel Container
When you put the fuel cap back on, turn it to the right Filling a Portable Fuel Container (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly CAUTION: installed.
Page 343: Checking Things Under The Hood
Checking Things Under the Hood Release Hood To open the hood, do the following: 1. Pull the handle located inside the vehicle to CAUTION: the lower left of the steering wheel. Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a ﬁre.
Page 344 Vehicles with Gray Body–Side Cladding Vehicles with no Body–Side Cladding 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and push left on the secondary hood release, located under the front emblem for vehicles with gray body–side cladding or above the emblem for vehicles with no body–side cladding.
Page 345: Engine Compartment Overview
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the VORTEC™ 5300 V8 engine you will see the following: 5-12...
Page 346 A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air H. Remote Negative (−) Terminal (GND). See Jump Cleaner/Filter on page 5-20 . Starting on page 5-43 . B. Coolant Surge Tank. See Cooling System on I. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (Out of View). See page 5-30 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap Power Steering Fluid on page 5-36 .
Page 347 When you open the hood on the VORTEC™ 8100 V8 engine you will see the following: 5-14...
Page 348: Engine Oil
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Engine Oil Cleaner/Filter on page 5-20 . If the CHECK OIL LEVEL light appears on the B. Coolant Surge Tank. See Cooling System on instrument cluster, it means you need to check your page 5-30 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap engine oil level right away.
Page 349: When To Add Engine Oil
Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to When to Add Engine Oil drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil If the oil is at or below the cross-hatched area at the tip of dipstick might not show the actual level.
Page 350: What Kind Of Engine Oil To Use
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identiﬁed by looking for the starburst symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certiﬁed by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this starburst symbol. If you choose to perform the engine oil change service yourself, be sure the oil you use has the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container.
Page 351: Engine Oil Additives
As in the chart shown previously, SAE 5W-30 is the When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil only viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle. You Life System) should look for and use only oils which have the API Starburst symbol and which are also identiﬁed as Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know SAE 5W-30.
Page 352: What To Do With Used Oil
How to Reset the CHANGE ENGINE OIL What to Do with Used Oil Message System Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be The GM Oil Life System calculates when to change unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. your engine oil and ﬁlter based on vehicle use.
Page 353: Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter How to Inspect Locate the ﬁlter change indicator. When the change See Engine Compartment indicator turns black or is in the red/orange “change” Overview on page 5-12 for zone, replace the ﬁlter and reset the indicator. To location of engine air inspect the air cleaner/ﬁlter, remove the ﬁlter from the cleaner/ﬁlter and change...
Page 354 CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/ﬁlter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it helps to stop ﬂame if the engine backﬁres. If it isn’t there and the engine backﬁres, you could be burned.
Page 355: Automatic Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may When to Check and Change choose to have this done at the dealership service department. A good time to check your automatic transmission ﬂuid level is when the engine oil is changed.
Page 356 Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F The transmission dipstick (10°C). If it’s colder than 50°F (10°C), drive the vehicle handle with the graphic is in THIRD (3) until the engine temperature gage located at the rear of...
Page 357: Engine Coolant
Add ﬂuid only after checking the transmission ﬂuid while it is hot. (A cold check is used only as a reference.) If the ﬂuid level is low, add only enough of the proper ﬂuid to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check. It doesn’t take much ﬂuid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L).
Page 358: What To Use
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and ® DEX-COOL coolant will: CAUTION: Give freezing protection down to −34°F (−37°C). • • Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C). Adding only plain water to your cooling • system can be dangerous. Plain water, or Protect against rust and corrosion.
Page 359: Checking Coolant
Checking Coolant CAUTION: The coolant surge tank is located in the engine compartment on the Turning the surge tank pressure cap when the passenger’s side of the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam vehicle. and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly.
Page 360: Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap
Engine Overheating CAUTION: You will ﬁnd a coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument panel. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 3-39 . In addition, you will You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot ﬁnd a LOW COOLANT, ENGINE COOLANT HOT, engine parts.
Page 361: If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: (Continued) 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 your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch ﬁre.
Page 362: If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
If No Steam Is Coming From Your If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. Engine If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally. An overheat warning, along with a low coolant message, can indicate a serious problem.
Page 363: Cooling System
Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: 8100 V8 Engine A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap C. Engine Fan 5300 V8 Engine If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.
Page 364 When the engine is cold, Notice: Engine damage from running your engine the coolant level should be without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty. at or above the FULL Notice: When adding coolant, it is important that COLD mark. If it isn’t, you ®...
Page 365: How To Add Coolant To The Coolant Surge Tank
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, check to see if coolant is visible in the surge tank. If coolant is visible but the coolant level isn’t at the FULL COLD mark, add a ®...
Page 366 Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. CAUTION: Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture. Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or CAUTION: some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will.
Page 367 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface. You can 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap slowly, and remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap remove it. when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.
Page 368 3. Then ﬁll the coolant surge tank with the proper 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start mixture, to the FULL COLD mark. the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan.
Page 369: Engine Fan Noise
So you may hear an increase in fan noise. This is normal and should not be mistaken as the transmission slipping or making extra shifts. It is merely the cooling system functioning properly. The fan will slow down when additional cooling is not required and the clutch disengages.
Page 370: How To Check Power Steering Fluid
How to Check Power Steering Fluid Turn the key off, let the engine compartment cool down, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the ﬂuid level on the dipstick.
Page 371: Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer ﬂuid until the tank is full. What to Use Notice: • When you need windshield washer ﬂuid, be sure to read When using concentrated washer ﬂuid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
Page 372: Brakes
Brakes CAUTION: Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is ﬁlled with DOT-3 If you have too much brake ﬂuid, it can spill on brake ﬂuid. See Engine Compartment Overview on the engine. The ﬂuid will burn if the engine is page 5-12 for the location of the reservoir.
Page 373: Checking Brake Fluid
Checking Brake Fluid What to Add You can check the brake ﬂuid without taking off the cap. When you do need brake ﬂuid, use only DOT-3 brake ﬂuid. Use new brake ﬂuid from a sealed container only. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-17 .
Page 374: Brake Wear
Notice: • Using the wrong ﬂuid can badly damage brake CAUTION: system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your The brake wear warning sound means that brake system can damage brake system soon your brakes won’t work well.
Page 375: Battery
Brake Pedal Travel Battery See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to Your new vehicle comes with a maintenance free normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in ® ACDelco battery. When it’s time for a new battery, get pedal travel.
Page 376: Jump Starting
CAUTION: CAUTION: Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you because: aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” next for • They contain acid that can burn you. tips on working around a battery without •...
Page 377 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables 4. Open the hoods and locate the positive (+) and can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching negative (−) terminal locations of the other vehicle. each other. If they are, it could cause a ground Your vehicle has a remote positive (+) jump connection you don’t want.
Page 378 The remote negative (−) terminal is located on the engine accessory drive bracket and is marked “GND” for all Vortec 5300 and is located on the thermostat housing and marked “GND” for all Vortec 8100 engines. Vortec 5300 Engine Vortec 8100 Engine See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location.
Page 379 5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a CAUTION: shock. The vehicles could be damaged too. Before you connect the cables, here are some Using a match near a battery can cause battery basic things you should know.
Page 380 8. Now connect the black negative (−) cable to 6. Connect the red the negative (−) positive (+) cable to the terminal of the good positive (+) terminal battery. Use a remote of the dead battery. negative (−) terminal Use a remote if the vehicle has positive (+) terminal if one.
Page 381 Notice: Damage to your vehicle may result from To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles do electrical shorting if jumper cables are removed the following: incorrectly. To prevent electrical shorting, take care 1. Disconnect the black negative (−) cable from the that the cables don’t touch each other or any vehicle that had the dead battery.
Page 382: Rear Axle
Rear Axle The proper level for the 1500 Series is from 5/8 inch to 1 5/8 inch (15 mm to 40 mm) below the bottom of the ﬁller plug hole. The proper level for the 2500 Series When to Check Lubricant is from 0 to 1/2 inch (0 to 13 mm) below the bottom of the ﬁller plug hole.
Page 383: Four-Wheel Drive
Four-Wheel Drive How to Check Lubricant Lubricant checks in this section also apply to these vehicles. However, there are two additional systems that need lubrication. Transfer Case When to Check Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See Part C: Periodic Maintenance I nspections on page 6-15 .
Page 384: Front Axle
Front Axle If the level is below the bottom of the ﬁller plug hole, you may need to add some lubricant. When to Check and Change Lubricant When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to raise the level to 1/2 inch (12 mm) below the ﬁller plug Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how hole.
Page 385: Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement Headlamps See Replacement Bulbs on page 5-59 for the proper Vehicles with Gray Body−Side Cladding type of bulbs to use. 1. Remove the turn For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this signal/parking lamp section, contact your dealer. housing by pressing the release clip on the Halogen Bulbs...
Page 386 A. Low-Beam Headlamp B. High-Beam Headlamp 5. Turn the bulb connector counterclockwise and pull it out of the housing. 3. Pull the pins away from their clips and pull them up until they completely release from the vehicle. 6. Unplug the electrical connector from the old bulb. 7.
Page 387 Vehicles with no Body–Side Cladding A. Low-Beam Headlamp B. High-Beam Headlamp 1. Remove the pin on the headlamp assembly by 3. Unplug the electrical connector. turning the pin up and pulling it straight out. 4. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise and remove it 2.
Page 388: Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker And Parking Lamps
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and 1. Remove the turn signal/parking lamp Parking Lamps housing by pressing the release clip on the Vehicles with Gray Body−Side Cladding outboard side of the housing and pulling the outboard end of the housing toward you. 2.
Page 389: Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker And Daytime Running Lamps
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and 1. Remove the headlamp assembly as mentioned previously. Daytime Running Lamps Vehicles with no Body–Side Cladding 2. Press the retainer clip (arrow), located behind the turn signal housing, towards the outside of the vehicle. A. Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) B.
Page 390 5. Remove the old bulb from the bulb socket. 6. Put the new bulb into the bulb socket. Use care not to touch the bulb with your ﬁngers or hands. 7. Put the bulb socket into the turn signal housing and turn it clockwise until it locks (the sidemarker lamps does not lock into place).
Page 391: Daytime Running Lamps
Daytime Running Lamps Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) Vehicles with Gray Body-Side Cladding It is recommended that this component be replaced as The DRLs are located in the front fascia near the a unit by your dealer. foglamps. They can be identiﬁed by their square shape. 1.
Page 392: Replacement Bulbs
2. Remove the two rear 5. Press a new bulb into the socket and turn the lamp assembly screws socket clockwise into the taillamp housing until near the tailgate it clicks. latch and pull out the 6. Reinstall the rear lamp assembly and tighten the lamp assembly.
Page 393: Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least twice a year for wear and cracking. See Wiper Blade Check under At Least Twice a Year on page 6-11 for more information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways.
Page 394: Tires
Underinﬂated tires pose the same danger about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, as overloaded tires. The resulting accident see your Chevrolet Warranty booklet for details. could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure.
Page 395: Inﬂation -- Tire Pressure
Inﬂation -- Tire Pressure When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. The Certiﬁcation/Tire label, which is on the rear edge of the driver’s door, shows the correct inﬂation pressures Also, check the tire pressure of the spare tire. for your tires when they’re cold.
Page 396 The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The ﬁrst rotation CAUTION: is the most important. See “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services,” in Section 6, for scheduled rotation intervals. Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here.
Page 397: When It Is Time For New Tires
When It Is Time for New Tires • The tire has a bump, bulge or split. • The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that One way to tell when it’s can’t be repaired well because of the size or time for new tires is to location of the damage.
Page 398: Uniform Tire Quality Grading
If you ever replace your tires with those not having a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, CAUTION: load range, speed rating and construction type (bias, bias-belted or radial) as your original tires. If you use bias-ply tires on your vehicle, the wheel rim ﬂanges could develop cracks after CAUTION: many miles of driving.
Page 399 While the tires available on General Motors passenger Temperature – A, B, C cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, grades, they must also conform to federal safety representing the tire’s resistance to the generation requirements and additional General Motors Tire of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested...
Page 400: Wheel Alignment And Tire Balance
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts and best overall performance.
Page 401: Tire Chains
Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems Tire Chains with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire chain CAUTION: clearance to the body and chassis. See Changing a Flat Tire on page 5-70 for more If your vehicle is a 1500 Series, don’t use tire information.
Page 402: If A Tire Goes Flat
Notice: If your vehicle is a 2500 Series, use tire A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a chains only where legal and only when you must. skid and may require the same correction you’d use Use chains that are the proper size for your in a skid.
Page 403: Changing A Flat Tire
Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes ﬂat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning ﬂashers. CAUTION: Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people.
Page 404 To remove the jack and wheel blocks, do the following: Rear Seat (Passenger Side) Jack Cover 1. Remove the jack cover by turning the two wing nuts one-quarter turn counterclockwise and pulling the jack cover off. 2. Release the bottle jack from its holder by turning the knob on the jack counterclockwise to lower the jack head from the bracket.
Page 405 To remove the tools, do the following: 1. Open the top door on the passenger’s side Top-Box Storage unit. Use the ignition/door key to unlock it if it is locked. See Top-Box Storage on page 2-77 for more information on the Top-Box Storage unit. A.
Page 406 Follow these instructions to lower the spare tire: 3. Insert the hoist end (open end) (F) of the 1. Your vehicle may be equipped with a hoist lock (J). extension through Open the spare tire lock cover on the bumper and the hole (G) in the rear use the ignition key to remove the lock.
Page 407: Removing The Flat Tire And Installing The Spare Tire
5. The wheel wrench has Removing the Flat Tire and Installing a hook that allows you the Spare Tire to pull the hoist cable towards you to Use the following pictures and instructions to remove assist in reaching the ﬂat tire and raise the vehicle. the spare tire.
Page 408 1. If your vehicle has 2. Use the wheel wrench wheel nut caps, loosen to loosen all the wheel them by turning the nuts. Turn the wheel wheel wrench wrench counterclockwise. If the counterclockwise to vehicle has a center loosen the wheel nuts. cap with wheel Don’t remove the nut caps, the wheel nut...
Page 409 CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. CAUTION: Front Position Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly Front Tire Flat: If the ﬂat tire is on a front tire of...
Page 410 Rear Tire Flat: If the ﬂat tire is on a rear tire of the vehicle, you’ll need to use the jack handle (C) and both jack handle extensions (D). Attach the wheel wrench to the jack handle extensions. Attach the jack handle to the jack.On all 1500 Series vehicles, use the jacking pad provided on the rear axle.
Page 411 CAUTION: CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel become loose after a time.
Page 412 Rear Position 1500 Rear Position 2500 Series Series 7. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower Front Position the vehicle. Lower the jack completely. 5-79...
Page 413 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.
Page 414: Storing A Flat Or Spare Tire, Jack And Tools
When you reinstall the full-size wheel and tire, you must Storing a Flat or Spare Tire, Jack and also reinstall the wheel cover with attached plastic Tools nuts, the plastic nut caps or the smooth center cap. • If you are reinstalling a wheel cover with attached plastic nuts, place it on the wheel and tighten the CAUTION: nuts by hand to get them started.
Page 415 1. Put the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem pointed down and toward the rear of the vehicle. 2. Tilt the retainer (D) downward and through the wheel opening. Make sure the retainer is fully seated across the underside of the wheel.
Page 416 5. Raise the tire part way upward. Make sure the retainer 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.
Page 417: Secondary Latch System
To store the tools, follow these procedures: To release the spare tire from the secondary latch do the following: 1. Return the tools to the tool bag and place it back in the Top-Box Storage unit. 2. Assemble wheel blocks and bottle jack together with the wing nut.
Page 418 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” earlier in this section. 5. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until approximately six inches (15 cm) of cable is exposed.
Page 419 11. 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: Someone standing too close during the procedure could be injured by the jack. If the spare tire does not slide off the jack completely, make sure no one is behind you or on either side of you as you pull the jack out...
Page 420: Spare Tire
13. Tilt the retainer at the Spare Tire end of the cable and pull it through the Your vehicle, when new, had a fully inﬂated spare tire. wheel opening. Pull the A spare tire may lose air over time, so check its tire out from under inﬂation pressure regularly.
Page 421: Appearance Care
Appearance Care Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses, these will damage your vehicle: Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some • Alcohol are toxic. Others can burst into ﬂames if you strike a •...
Page 422: Special Fabric Cleaning Problems
Here are some cleaning tips: Special Fabric Cleaning Problems • Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. Stains caused by such things as catsup, coffee (black), • egg, fruit, fruit juice, milk, soft drinks, vomit, urine Clean up stains as soon as you can – before and blood can be removed as follows: they set.
Page 423: Cleaning Vinyl
Cleaning Vinyl Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel Use warm water and a clean cloth. • Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You Use only mild soap and water to clean the top surfaces of the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones may have to do this more than once.
Page 424: Care Of Safety Belts
Care of Safety Belts Washing Your Vehicle Keep belts clean and dry. The best way to preserve your vehicle’s ﬁnish is to keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water. CAUTION: Don’t wash your vehicle in the direct rays of the sun. Use a car washing soap.
Page 425: Finish Care
Finish Care Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts Bright metal parts should be cleaned regularly to keep Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your vehicle by their luster. Washing with water is all that is usually hand may be necessary to remove residue from the needed.
Page 426: Aluminum Or Chrome-Plated Wheels
Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels Sheet Metal Damage Your vehicle may be equipped with either aluminum or If your vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal chrome-plated wheels. repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or mild soap and water.
Page 427: Underbody Maintenance
Underbody Maintenance Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust See your GM dealer for more information on purchasing control can collect on the underbody. If these are not the following products. removed, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, ﬂoor pan Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials and exhaust system even though they have corrosion...
Page 428 Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials (cont’d) (cont’d) Description Usage Description Usage Removes dust, Quickly and easily ﬁngerprints, and surface removes spots and stains Finish Enhancer Spot Lifter contaminants, Spray on from carpets, vinyl and wipe off. cloth upholstery. Removes swirl marks, Odorless spray odor ﬁne scratches and other eliminator used on...
Page 429: Vehicle Identiﬁcation
Vehicle Identiﬁcation Service Parts Identiﬁcation Label You’ll ﬁnd this label located in the glove box. It’s very Vehicle Identiﬁcation Number (VIN) helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label is: • your VIN, • the model designation, •...
Page 430: Windshield Wiper Fuses
Windshield Wiper Fuses If you ever have a problem on the road and don’t have a spare fuse, you can borrow one that has the same amperage. Just pick some feature of your vehicle The windshield wiper motor is protected by an internal that you can get along without –...
Page 431 You may have spare fuses located behind the fuse Fuses Usage block access door. These can be used to replace a bad WS WPR Windshield Wipers fuse. However, make sure it is of the correct amperage. Truck Body Controller TBC ACCY Your vehicle may not have all of the features or Accessory fuses listed in this section.
Page 432 Fuses Usage Fuses Usage IGN 0 PCM, TCM Rear Cargo Area Power AUX PWR 2 Outlets TBC IGN 0 Truck Body Controller LOCKS Power Door Lock System Vehicle and Trailer High VEH CHMSL Mounted Stoplamp Rear Electronic Climate Control LT TRLR ST/TRN Left Turn Signal/Stop Trailer TBC 2C Truck Body Controller...
Page 433: Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block
Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block Device Usage Ride Control Harness The center instrument panel utility block is located SL RIDE Connection underneath the instrument panel, to the left of the HDLR 2 Headliner Wiring Connector steering column. BODY Body Wiring Connector DEFOG Rear Defogger Relay HDLNR 1...
Page 434 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. To remove fuses, hold the end of the fuse between your thumb and index ﬁnger and pull straight out.
Page 435 5-102...
Page 436 *1 — Gasoline Engine and Fuel Injection Rail #2. Fuses Usage *2 — Gasoline Engine and Fuel Injection Rail #1. IGN A Ignition Power IGN B Ignition Power *3 — Gasoline Engine; Oxygen Sensors. Left Bussed Electrical Center, *4 — Gasoline Engine; Oxygen Sensors. LBEC 1 Left Doors, Truck Body *5 —...
Page 437 Fuses Usage Fuses Usage Auxiliary Power Outlet — Supplemental Inﬂatable AUX PWR Console Restraint System IGN 1 Ignition Relay Front Parking Lamps, FRT PARK Sidemarker Lamps PCM 1 Powertrain Control Module Daytime Running Lamps Electronic Throttle Control, ETC/ECM (Relay) Electronic Brake Controller SEO IGN Rear Defog Relay Instrument Panel Cluster, Air...
Page 438 Fuses Usage Fuses Usage RR WPR Rear Wiper/Washer Windshield and Rear Window W/S WASH Washer Pump Relay RADIO Audio System Windshield and Rear Window Mid Bussed Electrical Center, W/S WASH Washer Pump SEO B1 HomeLink, Rear Heated Seats OnStar/Rear Seat INFO Entertainment LO HDLP-LT...
Page 439: Capacities And Speciﬁcations
Capacities and Speciﬁcations Please refer to Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-17 for more information. All capacities are approximate. Engine Speciﬁcations Engine VIN Code Transmission Spark Plug Gap VORTEC™ 5300 V8 Automatic 0.060 INCHES (1.52 MM) VORTEC™ 8100 V8 Automatic 0.060 INCHES (1.52 MM) Capacities and Speciﬁcations...
Page 440 Capacities and Speciﬁcations (cont’d) Capacities Application English Metric Engine Oil with Filter 6.0 quarts 5.7 L VORTEC™ 5300 V8 (VIN Code T) 6.5 quarts 6.1 L VORTEC™ 8100 V8 (VIN Code G) Fuel Tank Capacity 31.0 gallons 117.0 L 1500 37.5 gallons 142.0 L 2500...
Page 441: Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Replacement part numbers listed in this section are based on the latest information available at the time of printing, and are subject to change. If a part listed in this manual is not the same as the part used in your vehicle when it was built, or if you have any questions, please contact your GM dealer.
Page 442 Section 6 Maintenance Schedule Maintenance Schedule ........6-2 At Least Once a Year ........6-12 Introduction ...........6-2 Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections ..6-15 Your Vehicle and the Environment ....6-2 Steering and Suspension Inspection ....6-15 Maintenance Requirements ......6-2 Exhaust System Inspection ......6-15 How This Section is Organized ......6-3 Fuel System Inspection ........6-15 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services ...6-4 Engine Cooling System Inspection ....6-16...
Page 443: Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your Introduction vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. Improper vehicle maintenance can Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level and even affect the quality of the air we breathe.
Page 444: How This Section Is Organized
How This Section is Organized “Part B: Owner Checks and Services” tells you what should be checked and when. It also explains what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good This maintenance schedule is divided into ﬁve parts: condition.
Page 445: Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance This part tells you the maintenance services you should have done and when to schedule them. Services When you go to your dealer for your service needs, you’ll know that GM-trained and supported service This part contains engine oil and chassis lubrication people will perform the work using genuine GM parts.
Page 446: Scheduled Maintenance
Scheduled Maintenance Engine Oil and Chassis Lubrication Scheduled Maintenance The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be repeated after 100,000 miles Change engine oil and ﬁlter as indicated by the GM (166 000 km) at the same intervals for the life of Oil Life System (or every 12 months, whichever this vehicle.
Page 447 If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your Inspect engine air cleaner ﬁlter or change indicator (if last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system equipped).
Page 448 Rotate tires. See Tire Inspection and Rotation on change. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-20 page 5-62 for proper rotation pattern and additional for more information. An Emission Control Service. information. (See footnote +.) (See footnote †.) Replace fuel ﬁlter. An Emission Control Service. (See Check rear/front axle ﬂuid level and add ﬂuid as footnote †.) needed.
Page 449 52,500 Miles (87 500 km) Inspect Evaporative Control System. Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper hook-up, Check rear/front axle ﬂuid level and add ﬂuid as routing and condition. Check that the purge valve needed. Check constant velocity joints and axle seals works properly, if equipped.
Page 450 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) 97,500 Miles (162 500 km) Check rear/front axle ﬂuid level and add ﬂuid as Check rear/front axle ﬂuid level and add ﬂuid as needed. Check constant velocity joints and axle seals needed. Check constant velocity joints and axle seals for leaking.
Page 451: Part B: Owner Checks And Services
Change transfer case ﬂuid. Part B: Owner Checks and Services Except 8.1L V8 Engine: Inspect Positive Crankcase Listed in this part are owner checks and services Ventilation (PCV) valve. An Emission Control which should be performed at the intervals speciﬁed to Service.
Page 452: At Least Once A Month
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts Check the windshield washer ﬂuid level in the windshield replaced. washer tank and add the proper ﬂuid if necessary. Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings, See Windshield Washer Fluid on page 5-38 for further and have them repaired or replaced.
Page 453: Weatherstrip Lubrication
Weatherstrip Lubrication Body Lubrication Service Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last Lubricate all hood latch assembly, secondary latch, longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, midgate hinges, side silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold, storage box door hinges, tailgate hinge, tailgate damp weather more frequent application may be linkage, outer tailgate handle pivot points, latch bolt, fuel...
Page 454: Ignition Transmission Lock Check
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular 2. Firmly apply the parking brake. See Parking Brake brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-39 if on page 2-39 if necessary. necessary. Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to the vehicle begins to move.
Page 455: Underbody Flushing Service
Parking Brake and Automatic • To check the PARK (P) mechanism’s holding ability: With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Transmission Park (P) Mechanism Then release the parking brake followed by the Check regular brake. Underbody Flushing Service CAUTION: At least every spring, use plain water to ﬂush any corrosive materials from the underbody.
Page 456: Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections
Part C: Periodic Exhaust System Inspection Maintenance Inspections Inspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the body near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, Listed in this part are inspections and services which missing or out-of-position parts as well as open seams, should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, holes, loose connections or other conditions which each spring and fall).
Page 457: Engine Cooling System Inspection
Engine Cooling System Inspection Brake System Inspection Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, ﬁttings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the chaﬁng, etc.
Page 458: Part D: Recommended Fluids And Lubricants
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Usage Fluid/Lubricant Lubricants GM Power Steering Fluid (GM Part Power Steering No. U.S. 1052884, in Canada System 993294, or equivalent). Fluids and lubricants identiﬁed below by name, part ® Automatic DEXRON -III Automatic number or speciﬁcation may be obtained from your Transmission Transmission Fluid.
Page 459 Usage Fluid/Lubricant Usage Fluid/Lubricant Synthetic Axle Lubricant; use only Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube Rear Axle GM Part No. 12378557 (in Canada Hood Hinges (GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in (Steerable) 88901362). Do not add friction Canada 10953474, or equivalent). modiﬁer. Outer Tailgate Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube AUTO-TRAK II Fluid (GM Part No.
Page 460: Part E: Maintenance Record
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service and any additional information from “Owner Checks and Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts. Maintenance Record Odometer Maintenance Record...
Page 461 Maintenance Record (cont’d) Odometer Maintenance Record Date Serviced By Reading 6-20...
Page 462 Maintenance Record (cont’d) Odometer Maintenance Record Date Serviced By Reading 6-21...
Page 463 Maintenance Record (cont’d) Odometer Maintenance Record Date Serviced By Reading 6-22...
Page 464 Section 7 Customer Assistance Information Customer Assistance Information ......7-2 Reporting Safety Defects ........7-10 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ......7-2 Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Online Owner Center ........7-4 Government ..........7-10 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian (TTY) Users ..........7-4 Government ..........7-10 Customer Assistance Offices ......7-4...
Page 465: Customer Assistance Information
Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to We encourage you to call the toll-free number in order to your dealer and to Chevrolet. Normally, any concerns give your inquiry prompt attention. Please have the with the sales transaction or the operation of your following information available to give the Customer vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service...
Page 466 STEP THREE: Both General Motors and your dealer You may contact the BBB using the toll-free telephone are committed to making sure you are completely number or write them at the following address: satisﬁed with your new vehicle. However, if you continue BBB Auto Line to remain unsatisﬁed after following the procedure Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.
Page 467: Online Owner Center
If a U.S. customer wishes • Find GM dealers for service nationwide. to write to Chevrolet, the letter should be addressed to • Chevrolet’s Customer Assistance Center. Receive special promotions and privileges only available to members. (United States only) United States –...
Page 468: Gm Mobility Program For Persons With
From Puerto Rico: Mexico, Central America and Caribbean 1-800-496-9992 (English) Islands/Countries (Except Puerto 1-800-496-9993 (Spanish) Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) – Fax Number: 313-381-0022 From U.S. Virgin Islands: Customer Assistance 1-800-496-9994 General Motors de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. Fax Number: 313-381-0022 Customer Assistance Center Canada –...
Page 469: Roadside Assistance Program
Roadside Basic Care services (as outlined satisfaction, Chevrolet is excited to announce the previously) establishment of the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center. As the owner of a 2003 Chevrolet, membership Plus: in Roadside Assistance is free. • FREE Non-Warranty Towing (to the closest dealer...
Page 470: Canadian Roadside Assistance
Basic Care and Courtesy Care are not part of or Courtesy Transportation included in the coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Chevrolet reserves the right to modify or discontinue Basic Care and Courtesy Care at any Chevrolet has always exempliﬁed quality and value in time.
Page 471: Plan Ahead When Possible
When your vehicle requires warranty service, you Warranty service can generally be completed while you should contact your dealer and request an appointment. wait. However, if you are unable to wait Chevrolet By scheduling a service appointment and advising helps minimize your inconvenience by providing several your service consultant of your transportation needs, transportation options.
Page 472: Additional Program Information
Public Transportation or Fuel Additional Program Information Reimbursement Courtesy Transportation is available during the If your vehicle requires overnight warranty repairs, Bumper-to-Bumper warranty coverage period, but it is not part of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. A reimbursement up to $30 per day (ﬁve day maximum) may be available for the use of public transportation separate booklet entitled “Warranty and Owner such as taxi or bus.
Page 473: Reporting Safety Defects
Reporting Safety Defects To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in the Washington, D.C. area) or write to: Reporting Safety Defects to the NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation Washington, D.C. 20590 United States Government You can also obtain other information about motor If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could...
Page 474: Reporting Safety Defects To General Motors
Please call us at 1-800-222-1020, or write: Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension, Chevrolet Motor Division brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc. Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33170 RETAIL SELL PRICE: $120.00 Detroit, MI 48232-5170 Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer...
Page 475: Service Bulletins
Service Bulletins Current and Past Model Order Forms Service Bulletins give technical service information Service Publications are available for current and needed to knowledgeably service General Motors cars past model GM vehicles. To request an order form, and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to please specify year and model name of the vehicle.
Page 476 Anti-Lock Brake, System Warning Light ....3-38 Anti-lock Brake System ........4-7 Accessory Power Outlets ......... 3-19 Appearance Care ..........5-88 Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment ..4-54 Care of Safety Belts ........5-91 Adding Washer Fluid ........5-38 Chemical Paint Spotting .......
Page 477 Automatic Transmission Check ......6-12 Brake (cont.) Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Brakes ............5-39 System Check ..........6-13 Braking in Emergencies ........4-9 Automatic Transmission ........5-22 Braking ............4-6 Fluid ............5-22 Break-In, New Vehicle ........2-27 Operation ........... 2-31 Bulb Replacement ...........
Page 478 Care of (cont.) Child Restraints (cont.) Your CDs and DVDs ........3-103 Infants and Young Children ......1-34 Cargo Area, All-Weather ........2-72 Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Cargo Area Floor Drains ........2-76 Children (LATCH System) ......1-43 Cargo Cover Panels ........
Page 479 Automatic ........... 3-20 Customer Assistance Information (cont.) Climate Controls Personalization ....3-29 Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Dual ............3-26 Government ..........7-10 Outlet Adjustment ........3-28 Roadside Assistance Program ......7-6 Compact Disc Messages ......3-75, 3-89 Service Publications Ordering Information ..
Page 480 Driving Downhill ..........4-26 Driving in Mud, Sand, Snow or Ice ....4-29 Easy Exit Seat ..........2-86 Driving in Water ..........4-30 Electrical System ..........5-96 Driving On Grades .......... 4-66 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ......5-97 Driving on Off-Road Hills ......... 4-23 Power Windows and Other Power Options ..
Page 481 Engine (cont.) Fluid (cont.) Starting ............2-28 FM Stereo ............ 3-102 Entertainment System ........3-103 Fog Lamps ............ 3-15 Cleaning the Video Screen ......3-103 Following Distance .......... 4-65 DVD Distortion .......... 3-102 Footnotes ............6-5 Entry Lighting ..........3-17 Four-Wheel Drive ........
Page 482 Headlamps (cont.) Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Daytime Gage ............3-39 Running Lamps ........5-56 Engine Coolant Temperature ......3-39 Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Parking Fuel ............3-45 Lamps ............ 5-55 Oil Pressure ..........3-43 Halogen Bulbs ..........5-52 Speedometer ..........
Page 483 If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine ..5-29 Jump Starting ..........5-43 If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine ....5-28 If the Light is Flashing ........3-42 If the Light Is On Steady ......... 3-42 If You Are Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow ..4-45 If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer .....
Page 484 Light (cont.) Low Fuel Warning ........3-45 Maintenance and Cleaning ....... 2-73 Malfunction Indicator ........3-41 Maintenance, Normal Replacement Parts ..5-108 Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator ....3-34 Maintenance Schedule ........6-10 Safety Belt Reminder ........3-33 At Each Fuel Fill ......... 6-10 Security .............
Page 485 Manual Passenger Seat ........1-2 Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle ....2-6 Memory Seat ..........2-85 Odometer ............3-32 Message ............3-57 Off-Road Recovery .......... 4-16 DIC Warnings and Messages ......3-57 OIL LIFE RESET ..........3-57 Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/ OIL PRESSURE LOW ........
Page 486 Accessory Outlets ........3-19 Door Locks ..........2-8 Park (P) ............2-40 Electrical System ......... 5-97 Shifting Into ..........2-40 Lumbar Controls ........... 1-3 Shifting Out of ..........2-42 Seat ............1-2 Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission Steering Fluid ..........5-36 Park (P) Mechanism Check ......
Page 487 Reading Lamps ..........3-18 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools ....5-70 Rear Axle ............5-49 Removing the Tonneau Cover ......2-78 Locking ............4-11 Replacement Bulbs ......... 5-59 Rear Door Security Locks ........ 2-11 Replacing Brake System Parts ......5-42 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ......
Page 488 Seats (cont.) Reclining Seatbacks ........1-5 Safety Belt ............. 3-33 Secondary Latch System ......... 5-84 Reminder Light ..........3-33 Securing a Child Restraint ........ 1-48 Safety Belts ........... 5-91 Center Front Seat Position ......1-48 Care of ............5-91 Rear Seat Position ........1-45 Center Passenger Position ......
Page 489 Side Rail Channels ......... 2-75 Storage Areas (cont.) Skidding ............4-18 Storing a Flat or Spare Tire, Jack and Tools ..5-81 Snow Plow ............ 4-54 Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow ...... 4-45 Some Other Rainy Weather Tips ....... 4-35 Sun Visors .............
Page 490 Tires (cont.) Recommendations ........4-58 Inspection and Rotation ........ 5-62 TRANS HOT IDLE ENGINE ......3-61 Spare Tire ..........5-87 Transfer Case and Front Axle (Four-Wheel Drive) Uniform Tire Quality Grading ......5-65 Inspection ........... 6-16 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ....5-67 Transfer Case ..........
Page 491 Using Cleaner on Fabric ........5-89 ® Using HomeLink ........... 2-58 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators ....3-30 Using Song List Mode ........3-88 Warnings ............3-57 Using the Recovery Hooks ....... 4-47 DIC Warnings and Messages ......3-57 Hazard Warning Flashers ....... 3-6 Other Warning Devices ........
Page 492 When to Check ..........5-62 When to Inspect ..........5-20 XM™ Radio Satellite Service (USA Only) ... 3-65, 3-76 When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ....3-103 on a Hill ............. 4-67 XM™ Satellite Radio Service (USA Only) ..3-102 Where to Put the Restraint .......

Chevrolet 2003 Avalanche Owner's Manual

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Front Seats

Rear Seats

Section 2 Features and Controls

Features and Controls

Doors and Locks

Starting and Operating Your Vehicle

Onstar System

Homelink Transmitter

Storage Areas

Sunroof

Vehicle Personalization

Section 3 Instrument Panel

Instrument Panel Overview

Climate Controls

Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

Driver Information Center (DIC)

Audio System(S)

Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle

Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle

Towing

Quick Links

Chapters

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Summary of Contents for Chevrolet 2003 Avalanche