2004 GMC Savana Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ........................... 1-1 Front Seats ............................................... 1-3 Rear Seats ............................................... 1-6 Safety Belts ............................................. 1-10 Child Restraints ....................................... 1-32 Air Bag System ....................................... 1-67 Restraint System Check ............................ 1-79 Features and Controls ...............................
Canadian Owners You can obtain a French copy of this manual from your dealer or from: Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207 GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, GMC, the GMC Truck Emblem and the name SAVANA are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after that time without further notice.
Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning. You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,” “Don’t do this” or “Don’t let this happen.” {CAUTION: These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people. In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is.
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, are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a specific component, control, message, gage or indicator. Notice: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. A notice will tell you about something that can damage your vehicle.
These are some examples of symbols you may find on your vehicle: v
Model Reference This manual covers these models: Cargo Van vi Passenger Van Cab and Chassis
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Front Seats ......................................................1-3 Manual Seats ................................................1-3 Power Seat ...................................................1-4 Reclining Seatbacks ........................................1-4 Rear Seats .......................................................1-6 Rear Seat Operation .......................................1-6 Safety Belts ...................................................
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Air Bag Off Switch ........................................1-75 Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle .........1-78 Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ....................................................1-79 1-2 Restraint System Check ..................................1-79 Checking Your Restraint Systems ...................1-79 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash ............................................
Front Seats Manual Seats To adjust the seat, pull the lever up to release the seat bottom. Slide the seat to where you want it and then release the lever. Try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place. {CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don’t want to.
Power Seat Reclining Seatbacks If your vehicle has a power seat on the driver’s or passenger’s side, you can adjust it with these controls located at the front center of the seat cushion. To adjust the seatback, lift the front of the lever, which is located on the inboard side of the seat cushion. To raise or lower the seat, move the center knob up or down. To move the seat forward or rearward, move the center knob toward the right or left.
{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 because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen.
Rear Seats 2. Locate the pins. • There are two pins located on the inboard sides Rear Seat Operation Removing the Rear Seat 1. Disconnect the quick release latch plates for the lap shoulder belts on the bench seat to be removed. To do this, press the tip of a key into the release hole of the safety belt buckle while pulling up on the safety belt. 1-6 of the rear seats. If the vehicle has floor mats, the pins will be located under a flap that has been cut into the mat.
• The passenger’s side pin will have an “R” marked on it and will look like this: 5. Pull the seat rearward about two inches (5 cm) and then lift the seat from the floor rails. 6. Remove the seat from the vehicle. 7. For the first row rear seat, stow the safety belt latch by attaching the clip on the safety belt latch to the trim just inside the side door. For the remaining rear seats, stow the safety belt latch plate on the clip at the window trim. 3.
Replacing the Rear Seats {CAUTION: A seat that isn’t locked into place properly can move around in a collision or sudden stop. People in the vehicle could be injured. Be sure to lock the seat into place properly when installing it. {CAUTION: A safety belt that is improperly routed, not properly attached, or twisted won’t provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured.
4. Push the pin with the handle marked “R” down until it is in the retaining clip. 5. Push the pin with the handle marked “L” down until it is in the retaining clip. 6. If the vehicle has a floor mat, put the flap back to its original position. 7. Repeat this procedure for the other seat base. 8. Connect the quick-release latch plates for the lap-shoulder belts by inserting the latch plates into the buckles attached at the outboard positions of the bench seat. Do not twist the belt. 9.
Safety Belts {CAUTION: Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. {CAUTION: Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed.
In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up, a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away.
Put someone on it. 1-12 Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.
The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... or the instrument panel...
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? A: 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. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.
Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident – even one that isn’t your fault – you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h).
3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-32. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-16 5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. To move it down, pull on the center adjuster control labeled PULL. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt.
Q: 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. A: 1-18 The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way.
Q: 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. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
Q: What’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. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests. A: 1-20 The belt is over an armrest.
Q: 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. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen. A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
Q: What’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. A: 1-22 The belt is twisted across the body.
To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle. Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.
Right Front Passenger Position To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt properly, see Driver Position on page 1-15. Center Passenger Position (2nd Row) The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt – except for one thing. If you ever pull the shoulder portion of the belt out all the way, you will engage the child restraint locking feature. If this happens, just let the belt go back all the way and start again.
Center Passenger Position (3rd, 4th and 5th Row) Lap Belt If your vehicle has third, fourth or fifth row bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions. When you sit in a center seating position in the third, fourth or fifth row, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.
Rear Seat Passengers It’s 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 aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.
Lap-Shoulder Belt Here’s how to wear a lap-shoulder belt properly. If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-32. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. {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. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt.
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear safety belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide better positions the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seats.
Here’s how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt: 2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 1. Locate the guide on the side of the seatback.
3. Be sure the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top. 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in Rear Seat Passengers on page 1-26. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the guides.
Safety Belt Extender Child Restraints If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. Older Children 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. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit.
Q: A: What is the proper way to wear safety belts? If possible, an older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the thighs. It should never be worn over the abdomen, which could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in a crash. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat.
Q: A: 1-34 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 seated in a rear outside seat 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. If the child is sitting in the second row center seat position, move the child toward the safety belt buckle.
{CAUTION: 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. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash. Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen.
Infants and Young Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need for everyone to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
{CAUTION: People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby 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. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint.
{CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, any 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. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide.
{CAUTION: The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child’s hip bones are still so small that the vehicle’s regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that’s unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries.
{CAUTION: {CAUTION: Newborn infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so muchcompared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant’s body, the back and shoulders. Infants always should be restrained in appropriate infant restraints.
{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. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms.
Child Restraint Systems An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle. 1-42 A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.
A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high-back booster seats have a five-point harness. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window.
Q: How do child restraints work? A: A child restraint system is any device designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A built-in child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add-on child restraint system is a portable one, which is purchased by the vehicle’s owner. For many years, add-on child restraints have used the adult belt system in the vehicle. To help reduce the chance of injury, the child also has to be secured within the restraint.
Where to Put the Restraint CAUTION: Passenger Vans without an Air Bag Off Switch Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We, therefore, recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat.
Passenger Vans with an Air Bag Off Switch CAUTION: Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We, therefore, recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat. If you need to secure a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger’s seat, turn off the passenger’s air bag.
Cargo Vans and Cab and Chassis Models without an Air Bag Off Switch CAUTION: The child restraint must be secured properly in the right front passenger seat. If your vehicle has a passenger air bag, never use a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle Here is why: If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the front passenger position, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go.
Cargo Vans and Cab and Chassis Models with an Air Bag Off Switch The child restraint must be secured properly in the right front passenger seat. If you need to secure a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger’s seat, turn off the passenger’s air bag. See Air Bag Off Switch on page 1-75 and Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position on page 1-62 for more on this, including important safety information.
Top Strap Some child restraints have a top strap, or “top tether.” It can help restrain the child restraint during a collision. For it to work, a top strap must be properly anchored to the vehicle. Some top strap-equipped child restraints are designed for use with or without the top strap being anchored. Others require the top strap always to be anchored. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint.
Anchor the top strap to one of the following anchor points. Be sure to use an anchor point located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. Top Strap Anchor Location On vehicles with a front passenger seat, the anchor for a top strap is located at the rear of the seat cushion on the right front passenger’s seat. {CAUTION: Each top tether bracket is designed to anchor only one child restraint.
If your vehicle is a passenger van with rear seats, an anchor bracket for a top strap is located at the rear of the seat cushion for each three-passenger rear bench seat. Don’t use a child restraint with a top strap in the right front passenger’s position, or in any four-passenger rear bench seat. The top strap is designed for the second row driver side position and the third/fourth row center searing positions in a three-passenger rear bench seat.
Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) If you have a passenger van, it may have the LATCH system. If it does, you’ll find two sets of anchors (A) in the second row of seats in the driver and passenger side seating positions, where the seatback meets the seat cushion. 1-52 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 attachments to secure the restraints.
The LATCH system labels are located on the outboard and inboard positions of the seats. {CAUTION: In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you need a child restraint designed for that system. To assist you in locating the lower anchors for this child restraint system, each seating position with the LATCH system has a label on the seatback at each lower anchor position.
Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System (Rear) 1. Find the LATCH anchorages for the seating position you want to use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the back of the seat cushion. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3. Attach and tighten the LATCH attachments on the child restraint to the LATCH anchorages in the vehicle. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 4. If the child restraint is forward-facing, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchorage.
CAUTION: (Continued) rear-facing child restraint in the right front seat position. If your vehicle is a cargo van with a right front passenger air bag but does not have an air bag off switch, do not use a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle. Even though the air bag off switch is designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal air bag, no system is fail-safe and no one can guarantee that an air bag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off.
2. Find the LATCH anchorages for the seating position you want to use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the back of the seat cushion. 3. Put the child restraint on the seat. 4. Attach and tighten the LATCH attachments on the child restraint to the LATCH anchorages in the vehicle. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 5. If the child restraint is forward-facing, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchorage. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position For vehicles with a third, fourth or fifth row, there are no top strap anchors in the rear outside seat positions of the third, fourth or fifth row. Do not secure a child seat in these positions if a national or local law requires that the top strap be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored.
3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-58 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.
Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position (2nd Row) 5. To tighten the belt, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
There is no top strap anchor in the center seat position of the second row. Do not secure a child seat in this position if a national or local law requires that the top strap be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored.
If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the lap belt to secure the child restraint in this position. 3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 4. Buckle the belt.
5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end 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. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
CAUTION: {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. If your vehicle is a passenger van, always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat.
{CAUTION: If the air bag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the air bag, it means that something may be wrong with the air bag system. The right front passenger’s air bag could inflate even though the switch is off.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 5. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. If you were using a rear-facing child restraint in a vehicle with an air bag off switch, turn on the right front passenger’s air bag when you remove the rear-facing child restraint from the vehicle unless the person who will be sitting there is a member of a passenger air bag risk group.
Air Bag System This part explains the air bag system. If it says AIR BAG on the middle part of the steering wheel and AIR BAG on the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger’s seat, your vehicle has two air bags — one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. If it says AIR BAG on the middle part of the steering wheel but it doesn’t say AIR BAG on the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger’s seat, your vehicle has an air bag for the driver only.
Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system: {CAUTION: You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt — even if you have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags are designed to work with safety belts, but do not replace them. Air bags are designed to deploy only in moderate to severe frontal and near frontal crashes.
If your vehicle has an air bag for the right front passenger read this. There is a air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the air bag symbol. {CAUTION: Anyone who is 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 the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them.
Where Are the Air Bags? If your vehicle has one, the right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
When Should an Air Bag Inflate? {CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering. An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal, or near-frontal crash.
Single Stage Air Bags Dual Stage Air Bags If your vehicle has frontal air bags with single stage deployment and your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher.
Seat Position Sensors What Makes an Air Bag Inflate? Vehicles with dual stage air bags are also equipped with special sensors which enable the sensing system to monitor the position of both the driver and passenger front seats. The seat position sensors provide information which is used to determine if the air bags should deploy at a reduced level or at full depoyment. In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash.
What Will You See After an Air Bag Inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module – the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag – will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch.
• Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After Air Bag Off Switch they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. • Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system.
This switch should only be turned to AIR BAG OFF if the person in the right front passenger’s position is a member of a passenger risk group identified by the national government as follows: Infant.
The AIR BAG OFF light will come on to let you know that the right front passenger’s air bag is off. The right front passenger’s air bag will remain off until you turn it back on again, and the AIR BAG OFF light will stay on to remind you that the air bag is off. {CAUTION: To turn off the right front passenger’s air bag, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to AIR BAG OFF.
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 7-11.
Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Restraint System Check Checking Your Restraint Systems Q: If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags from working properly? A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle’s basic structure isn’t changed, it’s not likely to keep the air bags from working properly in a crash.
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash {CAUTION: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.
Section 2 Features and Controls Keys ...............................................................2-2 Remote Keyless Entry System .........................2-4 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ...........2-5 Doors and Locks .............................................2-8 Door Locks ....................................................2-8 Power Door Locks ..........................................2-9 Cargo Door Relocking .....................................2-9 Rear Door Security Locks ..............
Keys {CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The children or others could be badly injured or even killed. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
This vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition and door locks. It will fit with either side up. The bar-coded tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep this tag in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using this tag. Notice: If you ever lock your keys in your vehicle, you may have to damage the vehicle to get in. Be sure you have spare keys.
Remote Keyless Entry System If equipped, the remote keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation Your vehicle may have this feature. Q(Lock): Press this button once to lock all of the doors. The parking lamps will flash and the interior lamps will turn on briefly. Press the lock button again within five seconds and the parking lamps will flash and the horn will chirp briefly. W(Unlock): Press this button once to unlock the driver’s door. The parking lamps will flash twice and the interior lamps will turn on.
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your 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. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched.
To replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter, do the following: 1. Use an object like a coin to pry open the transmitter. 2. Once the transmitter is separated, use an object like a pencil to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. 3. Remove and replace the battery, positive (+) side down. 4. Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure no moisture can enter. 5.
Doors and Locks Door Locks There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. If your vehicle is equipped with keyless entry, see Remote Keyless Entry System on page 2-4 for more information. From the outside, use your key. {CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. • Passengers — especially children — can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it.
Power Door Locks Cargo Door Relocking Press the bottom side of the power door lock switch to lock all the doors at once. Press the top side of the power door lock switch to unlock all the doors at once. This feature protects the owner from having an unsecured side cargo door. If the side cargo door is open when the lock button is pressed on the door or the remote keyless entry transmitter, all doors will lock and then re-lock again after the cargo door is closed.
Rear Door Security Locks Move the button to the left to engage the security feature. Move the button to the right to return the door locks to normal operation. Security locks are located on the passenger side rear door, the side sliding door or the front portion of the 60/40 side swing-out door. With this feature, you can lock these doors so they can’t be opened from the inside by passengers. Passenger Side 60/40 Swing-Out Side Door Move the button to the right to engage the security feature.
Move the button up to engage the security feature. Move the button down to return the door locks to normal operation. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving your vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. Sliding Side Door Side Sliding Door Lockout Protection This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door is open.
To close the sliding side door from outside, use the outside door handle to slide the door toward the front of the vehicle. When the door slides closed completely, it will be flush with the side of the body. 2-12 To open the sliding door from inside, turn the handle upward and toward the rear of the vehicle. Then, slide the door toward the rear of the vehicle to open it.
60/40 Swing-Out Side Door To close the sliding door from inside, grasp the inside handle and slide the door toward the front of the vehicle to a closed position. Make sure the door is completely closed before driving away. To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull out on the handle and pull it toward you.
To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the inside, pull the handle toward you and push open the door. To open the rear portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull the handle on the side of the rear door and pull it toward you. To close the 60/40 side doors, close the rear door first. Then close the front door. Check to make sure that both doors are completely closed. The front side swing-out door has a check strap assembly in the door frame to keep the door from opening beyond 90 degrees.
Rear Doors {CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. • Passengers — especially children — can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. • Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out.
Windows {CAUTION: Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. To open the driver’s side rear door, pull the latch release at the inside edge of the door. To close the rear doors, close the driver side rear door first.
Manual Windows To operate your manual windows, turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower your side door windows. Power Windows If you have power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors. The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger window as well. Your power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to RUN or ACCESSORY, or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Ignition Positions on page 2-21.
Press the rear of the switch with the power window symbol on it to lower the window. Swing-Out Windows Press the front of the switch with the power window symbol on it to raise the window. The driver’s window switch also has an express-down feature that allows the window to be lowered without holding the switch. Press and hold the side of the window switch marked AUTO for one second to activate the express-down mode.
Your vehicle also has rear swing out windows. Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also swing them from side to side. Visor Vanity Mirror Some visors have mirrors built in, with or without lamps. Just lift the mirror cover on each visor to turn the lamps on, if you have them. Theft-Deterrent Systems Rear-Swing Out Windows Vehicle theft is a big business, especially in some cities.
Passlock® ® Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock theft-deterrent system. Passlock® is a passive theft-deterrent system. Passlock® enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a valid key. If a correct key is not used or the ignition lock cylinder is tampered with, fuel is disabled. During normal operation, the SECURITY light will go off approximately five seconds after the key is turned to RUN.
Ignition Positions B (ACCESSORY): This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. Notice: Lengthy operation of features such as the radio in the accessory ignition position may drain the battery and prevent your vehicle from starting. Do not operate your vehicle in the accessory ignition position for a long period of time. C (RUN): This is the position for driving. D (START): This position starts the engine.
Starting Your Engine When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0°F or −18°C), do this: Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position – that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START and hold it there up to 15 seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key. Notice: Do not try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving.
Engine Coolant Heater In very cold weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not required. To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
Automatic Transmission Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever. PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. {CAUTION: It is 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. Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: • Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. • Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the {CAUTION: accelerator all the way down.
FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power but lower fuel economy than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in FIRST (1), the transmission won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough. Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transmission. If you are stuck, do not spin the tires.
Shifting Into Park (P) 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) 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. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-37.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running {CAUTION: • Move the lever up as far as it will go. 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. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Do not leave your vehicle with the engine running. 3. Move the ignition key to LOCK. 4.
Torque Lock Shifting Out of Park (P) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-27.
Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust {CAUTION: {CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. 2-30 Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can not see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: • Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. • Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.
Running Your Engine While You Are Parked It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. {CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier Caution under Engine Exhaust on page 2-30. Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the climate control fan is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage.
Mirrors Manual Rearview Mirror Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror If you have a cargo van without the rear door glass, your vehicle may not have a rearview mirror. Outside Camper-Type Mirrors If your vehicle is equipped with the camper-type mirrors, they can be adjusted so you can have a clear view of any objects behind you. Pull the tab under the mirror toward you to reduce glare from headlamps behind you after dark. Push the tab away from you to restore the mirror to the original position.
2. Turn the mirror head so that it swings further outboard and adjust the mirror surface as needed. Outside Power Mirrors Select the mirror you want to move by turning the knob clockwise to adjust the passenger’s side mirror and counterclockwise to adjust the driver’s side mirror. The center position is neutral. Then, adjust the mirror angle by pushing the knob in the direction desired until the mirror is adjusted to where you want it.
Outside Convex Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror may be convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat. Outside Heated Mirrors Your outside mirrors can be defrosted by pressing the button located near the fan control. {CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right.
OnStar® System OnStar® Services One of the following plans is normally included for a specific duration with each vehicle equipped with OnStar®. You can upgrade or extend your OnStar® service plan to meet your needs. Your vehicle may be equipped with the OnStar® System. OnStar® uses global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology, wireless communications, and call centers to provide you with a wide range of safety, security, information and convenience services.
Luxury and Leisure Plan • All Directions and Connections Plan services • Personal Concierge OnStar® Personal Calling With OnStar® Personal Calling, you have a safer way to stay connected while driving. It’s a hands-free wireless phone that’s integrated into your vehicle. You can place calls nationwide using voice-activated dialing with no contracts and no additional roaming charges.
Section 3 Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Overview ...............................3-4 Hazard Warning Flashers ................................3-6 Other Warning Devices ...................................3-7 Horn .............................................................3-7 Tilt Wheel .....................................................3-7 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever .........................3-8 Exterior Lamps .............................................3-14 Interior Lamps ......................
Section 3 Instrument Panel Radio with Six-Disc CD .................................3-61 Theft-Deterrent Feature (Non-RDS Radios) .......3-72 Theft-Deterrent Feature (RDS Radios) .............3-72 Radio Reception ...........................................3-72 Care of Your Cassette Tape Player .................3-72 3-2 Care of Your CDs .........................................3-74 Care of Your CD Player ................................3-74 Fixed Mast Antenna ......................................
✍ NOTES 3-3
Instrument Panel Overview 3-4
The main components of your instrument panel are the following: A. Air Outlets. See Outlet Adjustment on page 3-21. B. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. See Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-8. C. Instrument Panel Cluster. See Instrument Panel Cluster on page 3-25. D. Shift Lever. See Starting Your Engine on page 2-22. E. Climate Control System. See Climate Control System on page 3-19. F. Audio System(s). See Audio System(s) on page 3-42. G. Exterior and Interior Lamp Controls.
Hazard Warning Flashers The hazard warning flasher button is located at 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. Press the button again to turn the flashers off. Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off.
Other Warning Devices The lever is located on the lower left side of the steering column. If you carry reflective triangles, you can use them to warn others. Set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. Horn Press the horn symbol in the middle of the steering wheel to sound the horn. Tilt Wheel A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive.
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Turn and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically. An arrow on the instrument panel cluster will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.
If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs or a blown fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-91. Turn Signal On Chime If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound at each flash of the turn signal. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the off position.
Windshield Wipers You control the windshield wipers by turning the band with the wiper symbol on it. Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become worn or damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. 8(Mist): Windshield Washer For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to mist. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one wipe.
Cruise Control 9(Off) This position turns the system off. If your vehicle has cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will disengage. {CAUTION: R(On): This position activates the system. Cruise control can be dangerous where you can not drive safely at a steady speed.
Setting Cruise Control Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from on to resume/accelerate briefly. {CAUTION: You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there. If you leave your cruise control on when you are not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you do not want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control.
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control • Press and hold the set button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. • To slow down in very small amounts, press the set button briefly. Each time you do this, you’ll go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier.
i (Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)): Exterior Lamps The control on the driver’s side of your instrument panel operates the exterior lamps. Turn the control clockwise to operate the lamps. The exterior lamp control has four positions: Ø (Defeat): Turn and release the control to this position to turn off the DRLs. To turn them back on, turn and release the control to this position again. Shutting the vehicle off and restarting it will also reactivate the DRLs.
5 (Headlamps): Daytime Running Lamps You can switch your headlamps from high to low-beam by pulling the turn signal/high-beam lever toward you. Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. Fully functional daytime running lamps are required on all vehicles first sold in Canada.
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Brightness Control Press this knob located next to the exterior lamps knob to extend and turn it to adjust the instrument panel brightness. Your vehicle’s center high-mounted stoplamp is located above the rear doors at the center of the vehicle. If items are loaded on the roof of the vehicle, as in a luggage carrier, care should be taken not to block or damage the center high-mounted stoplamp unit.
Dome Lamp Override You can use the dome override button, located below the exterior lamp control, to set the dome lamps to come on automatically while a door is opened, or to remain off. Entry Lighting Your vehicle is equipped with an illuminated entry feature. When a door is opened, the dome lamps will come on if the dome override button is in the out position. If the dome override button is pressed in, the lamps will not come on.
Accessory Power Outlets With accessory power outlets you can plug in auxiliary electrical equipment such as a cellular telephone or CB radio. Your vehicle may have two accessory power outlets. If your vehicle has a cigarette lighter/accessory power outlet, it is located on the driver’s side of front storage compartment. The other accessory power outlet is located on the passenger’s side of the front storage compartment. To use the outlet, lift the cover. When not using it, always close the cover.
Climate Controls Climate Control System With this system you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation for your vehicle. ) (Bi-Level): This mode directs about half of the air to the instrument panel outlets, then directs most of the remaining air to the floor outlets. Some air may be directed toward the windshield. 6 (Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the floor outlets with some air directed to the outboard outlets (for the side windows) and some air directed to the windshield.
If your vehicle has air conditioning, your heating/air conditioning controls will look like this: Use the defog mode to clear the windows of fog or moisture and warm the passengers. Use the defrost mode to remove fog or frost from the windshield more quickly. For best results, clear all snow and ice from the windshield before defrosting. Turn the knob on the right of the climate control panel to select the defog or defrost mode. On hot days, open the windows to let hot inside air escape; then close them.
Rear Window Defogger Outlet Adjustment < R. DEF (Rear Defrost): Press this button to turn the rear window defogger on or off. Be sure to clear as much snow from the window as possible. Use the outlets located near the center and on the sides of the instrument panel to change the direction of airflow. The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog or frost from the rear window and will only work when the ignition is RUN.
Rear Heating System Your vehicle may have a rear heating system that allows you to adjust the amount of air flowing into the rear of the vehicle, from the front-seating area. This feature works with the main climate-control system in your vehicle. Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System Your vehicle may have a rear heating and air-conditioning system. This system regulates the temperature, the fan speed and the air delivery for the rear-seat passengers only.
To change the current mode, select one of the following: D (Vent): Use this mode to direct air to the upper outlets, with a little air directed to the floor outlets. 2(Floor): Use this mode to direct most of the air to the floor outlets. Rear Climate-Control Panel If your vehicle has a 135 inch wheelbase, a rear control panel for this system is located in the second row behind the driver in the rear of your vehicle.
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury.
Instrument Panel Cluster United States version shown, Canada similar Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, how much fuel you’re using, and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely, and economically.
Speedometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). Trip Odometer The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero. You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed.
Electronic Road-Speed Governor Your vehicle may have this feature. This system automatically controls top vehicle speed. The system controller receives a signal from the vehicle speed sensor and reduces power when the vehicle speed reaches the maximum 65 mph (105 km/h) governed speed. Safety Belt Reminder Light The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for several seconds, then it will flash for several more. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the tone nor the light will come on.
Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag sensor, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see Air Bag System on page 1-63.
Air Bag Off Light If your vehicle is equipped with an air bag off switch, when you turn the right front passenger’s air bag off, the air bag off light will come on and stay on to remind you that the air bag has been turned off. This light will go off when you turn the air bag back on again. See Air Bag Off Switch on page 1-70 for more on this, including important safety information.
Charging System Light {CAUTION: If the air bag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the air bag, it means that something may be wrong with the air bag system. The right front passenger’s air bag could inflate even though the switch is off.
Voltmeter Gage When your engine is not running, but the ignition is on (in the RUN position), this gage shows your battery’s state of charge in DC volts. Readings in the low warning zone may occur when a large number of electrical accessories are operating in the vehicle and the engine is left at an idle for an extended period. This condition is normal since the charging system is not able to provide full power at engine idle.
Brake System Warning Light With the ignition on, the brake system warning light will come on when you set your parking brake. The light will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If it stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means you have a brake problem. Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light With the anti-lock brake system, this light will come on when you start your engine and may stay on for several seconds. That’s normal. If the light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there’s a problem with your regular brakes.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Low Coolant Warning Light United States United States Canada This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area your engine is too hot! It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you have been operating your vehicle under normal operating conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle, and turn off the engine as soon as possible. See Engine Overheating on page 5-22.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp Check Engine Light Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The Check Engine light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required.
If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: • • • • been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off. Reducing vehicle speed. Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water? Avoiding hard accelerations. Avoiding steep uphill grades. If so, your electrical system may be wet.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Oil Pressure Gage Some state/provincial and local governments have or may begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent you from getting a vehicle registration. Here are some things you need to know to help your vehicle pass an inspection: Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the Check Engine light is on or not working properly.
A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by a dangerously low oil level or other problem causing low oil pressure. Check your oil as soon as possible. {CAUTION: Do not keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance may damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Security Light United States Cruise Control Light Canada The light will stay on until the engine starts. If the light flashes, the Passlock® System has entered a tamper mode. If the vehicle fails to start, see Passlock® on page 2-20. United States Canada The cruise light comes on whenever you set your cruise control. See “Cruise Control” under Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-8. If the light comes on continuously while driving and stays on, there may be a problem with the Passlock® System.
Reduced Engine Power Light If the check engine and reduced engine power lights are on, the throttle may be disabled, and a noticeable reduction in the vehicle’s performance may occur. If the reduced engine power light is on, but there is no reduction in performance, proceed to your destination. The performance may be reduced the next time the vehicle is driven. The vehicle may be driven at a reduced speed while the reduced engine power light is on, but acceleration and speed may be reduced.
Check Gages Warning Light United States Fuel Gage Canada This light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your coolant temperature and engine oil pressure gages to see if they are in the warning zones. United States Canada The fuel gage, when the ignition is on, tells you about how much fuel you have left in your tank.
Listed are four situations you may experience with your fuel gage: • At the gas station, the fuel pump shuts off before the gage reads full. • It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the fuel gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill the tank. • The gage moves a little when you turn a corner or speed up. • The gage doesn’t go back to empty when you turn off the ignition.
Setting the Time for Radios without Radio Data Systems (RDS) AM-FM Radio Press and hold the HR or MIN arrow for two seconds. Then press HR until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold MIN until the correct minute appears on the display. The time may be set with the ignition on or off. Setting the Time for Radios with Radio Data Systems (RDS) Your radio may have a button marked with an H or HR to represent hours and an M or MN to represent minutes.
Finding a Station Setting Preset Stations AM FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, or AM. The display will show your selection. The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM) by performing the following steps: TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations. Press the right or the left arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there. 1. Turn the radio on.
To adjust both tone controls and both speaker controls to the middle position, first end out of audio mode by pressing another button, causing the radio to perform that function, or by waiting five seconds for the display to return to time of day. Then press and hold the AUDIO button for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. CEN will appear on the display.
Radio with CD Finding a Station AM FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, and AM. The display will show your selection. TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations. o SEEK p: Press the right or the left arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there. Playing the Radio To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for two seconds until you hear a beep. The radio will go to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station.
Setting Preset Stations The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM FM to select FM1, FM2, or AM. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever you press that numbered pushbutton, the station you set will return. 5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
To adjust balance or fade to the middle position, select BAL or FAD. Then press and hold AUDIO for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. L and a zero or F and a zero will appear on the display. To adjust both tone controls and both speaker controls to the middle position, first end out of audio mode by pressing another button, causing the radio to perform that function, or by waiting five seconds for the display to return to time of day.
Do not add paper labels to CDs, they could get caught in the CD player. Do not play 3 inch CDs without a standard adapter CD. If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages” later in this section. 1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the beginning of the current track if it has been playing for more than eight seconds. The track number will appear on the display. If you hold the pushbutton or press it more than once, the player will continue moving backward through the CD.
CD Messages Radio with Cassette and CD If the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons: • It is very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the CD should play. • You are driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smooth, the CD should play. • The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down. • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. • There may have been a problem while burning the CD. • The label may be caught in the CD player.
Set the volume at the desired level. Press this button to select LOW, MEDIUM, or HIGH. AVOL will appear on the display. Each higher setting will allow for more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds. Then as you drive, automatic volume increases the volume, as necessary, to overcome noise at any speed. The volume level should always sound the same to you as you drive. NONE will appear on the display if the radio cannot determine the vehicle speed.
Setting Preset Stations The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, or AM. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press AUTO EQ to select the equalization. 5. Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons until you hear a beep.
To adjust the fade between the front and the rear speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until FADE appears on the display. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the front or the rear speakers. To adjust the balance and fade to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob. The radio will produce one beep and adjust the display level to the middle position. To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed.
4. If you want to go to another station within that PTY and the PTY is displayed, press the SEEK TYPE button once. If the PTY is not displayed, press the SEEK TYPE button twice to display the PTY and then to go to another station. 5. Turn the P-TYPE LIST knob to exit program type select mode. If PTY times out and is no longer on the display, go back to Step 1. If both PTY and TRAF are on, the radio will search for stations with the selected PTY and traffic announcements.
RDS Messages ALERT!: Alert warns of local or national emergencies. When an alert announcement comes on the current radio station, ALERT! will appear on the display. You will hear the announcement, even if the volume is muted or a cassette tape or CD is playing. If a cassette tape or CD is playing, play will stop during the announcement. You will not be able to turn off alert announcements. ALERT! will not be affected by tests of the emergency broadcast system.
Radio Messages CAL ERR (Calibration Error): Your audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If CAL ERR appears on the display it means that your radio has not been configured properly for your vehicle and must be returned to the dealer for service. LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. You must return to the dealer for service.
2 NEXT: Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for next to work. Press this pushbutton to go to the next selection on the tape. If you press the pushbutton more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the tape. SEEK and a positive number will appear on the display. q SEEK r: The right arrow is the same as the NEXT pushbutton, and the left arrow is the same as the PREV pushbutton.
Cassette Tape Messages CD Adapter Kits CHK TAPE (Check Tape): If CHK TAPE appears on the radio display, the tape will not play because of one of the following errors: • The tape is tight and the player cannot turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape may be damaged and should not be used in the player.
If you turn off the ignition or radio with a CD in the player, it will stay n the player. When you turn on the ignition or radio, the CD will start playing where it stopped, if it was the last selected audio source. As each new track starts to play, the track number will appear on the display. The CD player can play the smaller 8 cm single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.
q SEEK r: Press the left arrow to go to the start of the current or to the previous track. Press the right arrow to go to the start of the next track. If you hold either arrow or press it more then once, the player will continue moving backward or forward through the CD. q SCAN r: Press and hold either SCAN arrow for more than two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio will go to the next track, play for 10 seconds, then go on to the next track.
Radio with Six-Disc CD the volume, as necessary, to overcome noise at any speed. The volume level should always sound the same to you as you drive. If you do not want to use automatic volume, select OFF. RCL (Recall): Press this knob to switch the display between the radio station frequency and the time. Press this knob with the ignition off to display the time. To change the default on the display, press the RCL knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes.
To scan preset stations, press and hold either SCAN arrow for more than four seconds. PRESET SCAN will appear on the display and you will hear a double beep. The radio will go to a preset station stored on your pushbuttons, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset station. Press either SCAN arrow again to stop scanning presets. Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) The radio will scan only to stations that are in the selected band and only to those with a strong signal.
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) Radio Data System (RDS) AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until BAL appears on the display. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the right or the left speakers. Your audio system is equipped with a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS features are available for use only on FM stations that broadcast RDS information.
Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station To select and find a desired PTY perform the following: 1. Press the P-TYPE button to activate program type select mode. P-TYPE and the last selected PTY will appear on the display. 2. Turn the P-TYPE knob to select a PTY. 3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press either SEEK arrow to select the PTY and take you to the PTY’s first station. 4. If you want to go to another station within that PTY and the PTY is displayed, press either SEEK arrow once.
Setting Preset PTYs The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite PTYs. These buttons have factory PTY presets. You can set up to 12 PTYs (six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps: 1. Press BAND to select FM1 or FM2. 2. Press the P-TYPE button to activate program type select mode. P-TYPE and the last selected PTY will appear on the display. 3. Turn the P-TYPE knob to select a PTY. 4. Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons until you hear a beep.
If the current tuned station does not broadcast traffic announcements, press this button and the radio will seek to a station that does. When the radio finds a station that broadcasts traffic announcements, the radio will stop and brackets will be displayed around TRAF. When a traffic announcement comes on the tuned radio station you will hear it. If no station is found, NO TRAFFIC will appear on the display.
As each new track starts to play, the track number will appear on the display. To insert multiple CDs, do the following: 1. Turn the ignition on. 2. Press and hold the LOAD side of the LOAD CD button for two seconds. You will hear a beep and the light, located to the right of the slot, will begin to flash and LOAD ALL will appear on the display. 3. Once the light stops flashing and turns green, load a CD. Insert the CD partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull the CD in.
Do not repeatedly press the CD eject button to eject a CD after you have tried to push it in manually. The receivers 25-second eject timer will reset at each press of eject, which will cause the receiver to not eject the CD until the 25-second time period has elapsed. RPT (Repeat): With repeat, you can repeat one track or an entire CD. To use repeat, do the following: Once the player stops and the CD is ejected, remove the CD. After removing the CD, press the PWR knob off and then on again.
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press AUTO EQ to select the equalization setting while playing a CD. The equalization will be automatically set whenever you play a CD. For more information on AUTO EQ, see “AUTO EQ” listed previously in this section. sSEEK t: Press the left arrow to go to the start of the current track, if more than ten seconds have passed. Press the right arrow to go to the next track.
Using Song List Mode The six-disc CD changer has a feature called song list. This feature is capable of saving 20 track selections. To save tracks into the song list feature, perform the following steps: 1. Turn the CD player on and load it with at least one CD. See “LOAD CD” listed previously in this section for more information. To play the song list, press the SONG LIST button. One beep will be heard and S-LIST will appear on the display.
To delete the entire song list, perform the following steps: 1. Turn the CD player on. 2. Press the SONG LIST button to turn song list on. S-LIST will appear on the display. 3. Press and hold the SONG LIST button for more than four seconds. A beep will be heard, followed by two beeps after two seconds and a final beep will be heard after four seconds. S-LIST EMPTY will appear on the display indicating that the song list has been deleted.
Theft-Deterrent Feature (Non-RDS Radios) Radio Reception AM THEFTLOCK® is designed to discourage theft of your radio. The feature works automatically by learning a portion of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If the radio is moved to a different vehicle, it will not operate and LOC will appear on the display. The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other.
Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use. Your radio may display CLEAN to indicate that you have used your tape player for 50 hours without resetting the tape clean timer. If this message appears on the display, your cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to your tapes and player.
Care of Your CDs Chime Level Adjustment Handle CDs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a CD is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. The radio is the vehicle chime producer. The chime is produced from the driver’s side front door speakers.
Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ..........4-2 Defensive Driving ...........................................4-2 Drunken Driving .............................................4-3 Control of a Vehicle ........................................4-6 Braking .........................................................4-6 Locking Rear Axle ..........................................4-9 Stabilitrak® System .........................................4-9 Steering ......................
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. See Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone on page 1-9. Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do.
Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It is the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: • • • • Judgment Muscular Coordination Vision Attentiveness. Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving.
According to the American Medical Association, a 180 lb (82 kg) person who drinks three 12 ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4 ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces (45 ml) of liquors like whiskey, gin or vodka. It is the amount of alcohol that counts.
But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent. Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of 0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a collision.
Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road. Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That is perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That is reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts — heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking — rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.
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 us say the road is wet and you are driving safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here is what happens with ABS: A computer senses that wheels are slowing down.
Remember: Anti-lock does not change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you will not have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Using Anti-Lock Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let anti-lock work for you.
The following chart describes the Stabilitrak® Not Ready Light and the Stabilitrak® Indicator Light. Stabilitrak® Not Ready Light Off Off On On/Off Stabilitrak® Indicator Light Off Flashing Off On For more information, see Stabilitrak® Not Ready Light on page 3-33 and Stabilitrak® Indicator Light on page 3-33. Stabilitrak® and part of the traction control system can be turned off or back on by pressing the Stabilitrak® button located on the instrument panel.
If the brake-traction control system activates constantly or if the brakes have heated up due to high speed braking, the brake-traction control will be automatically disabled. The system will come back on after the brakes have cooled. This can take up to two minutes or longer depending on brake usage. Notice: If you allow the wheel(s) of one axle to spin excessively while the traction off, ABS, STABILITRAK NOT READY and brake warning lights are displayed, you could damage the transfer case.
The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you are in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems — steering and acceleration — have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control.
Off-Road Recovery You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you are driving. An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object.
Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds.
• Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal and move back into the right lane. (Remember that your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.) • Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on two-lane roads.
If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs. Driving at Night Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you will want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions.
Here are some tips on night driving. • Drive defensively. • Do not drink and drive. • Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. • Since you can not see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles. • Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead. • In remote areas, watch for animals. • If you are tired, pull off the road in a safe place and rest.
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can not stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction is not as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires do not have much tread left, you will get even less traction. It is always wise to go slower and be cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement.
Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you can not, try to slow down before you hit them. {CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They will not work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally.
Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you are going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. Hydroplaning does not happen often. But it can if your tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on the road.
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. • Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You will save time and energy. See Freeway Driving on page 4-22. • Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it.
Freeway Driving The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane. At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic.
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit. The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are.
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.
• Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. {CAUTION: Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash.
Winter Driving Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.
Whatever the condition — smooth ice, packed, blowing or loose snow — drive with caution. Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more. Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have an anti-lock braking system, you will want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See Braking on page 4-6.
If You Are Caught in a Blizzard • Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you have been stopped by the snow. • 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. If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation.
{CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You can not see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow does not collect there. Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that is away from the wind.
If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will need to spin the wheels, but you do not want to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you are stuck, but you must use caution. {CAUTION: If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. And, the transmission or other parts of the vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage.
Towing Your vehicle was not designed to be towed with any of its wheels on the ground. If your vehicle must be towed, it should be placed on a platform trailer. Towing Your Vehicle Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6. If you want to tow your vehicle behind another vehicle for recreational purposes (such as behind a motorhome), see “Recreational Vehicle Towing” following.
Tire and Loading Information Label The Tire and Loading Information label also tells you the size and recommended inflation pressure for the original equipment tires on your vehicle. For more information on tires and inflation see Tires on page 5-51 and Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-59.
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit 1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX pounds” on your vehicle placard. 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds. 4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs.
Example 2 Example 3 Loading Your Vehicle Loading Your Vehicle Item Description Item Description A Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 2 = 1,000 lbs (453 kg) Total A Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 3 = 1,000 lbs (453 kg) Total B Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) × 5 = 750 lbs (136 kg) B Subtract Occupant Weight 200 lbs (91 kg) × 5 = 1000 lbs (453 kg) C Available Cargo Weight = 250 lbs. (113 kg) C Available Cargo Weight = 0 lbs.
Certification/Tire Label The Certification/Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. The label shows the size of your original tires and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle. This is called Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle. And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. {CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.
Payload The Payload Capacity is shown on the Certification/Tire label. This is the maximum load capacity that your vehicle can carry. Be sure to include the weight of the people inside as part of your load. If you added any accessories or equipment after your vehicle left the factory, remember to subtract the weight of these things from the payload. Your dealer can help you with this.
If yours was built with trailering options, as many are, it’s ready for heavier trailers. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers.
Press this button located to the right of the steering wheel on the instrument panel to turn tow/haul mode on and off. Tow/haul mode will turn off automatically when the ignition is turned off. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 3-36. Tow/haul is most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75% of the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). See “Weight of the Trailer” later in this section.
The following chart shows how much your trailer can weigh, based upon vehicle model and options. 4-40 Vehicle Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight G1500 Cargo Van 2WD 4,400 lbs. (1 996 kg) 4300 V6 5300 V8 3.42 3.42 3.73 Vehicle 9,500 lbs. (4 309 kg) 6,600 lbs. (2 994 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight H1500 Cargo Van AWD GCWR 5300 V8 3.42 3.73 6,600 lbs. (2 994 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) Vehicle Axle Ratio 4300 V6 5300 V8 3.42 3.42 3.
Vehicle Axle Ratio 4300 V6 3.73 3.73 4.10 3.73 3.73 4.10 4800 V8 5300 V8 6000 V8 Vehicle Axle Ratio 5300 V8 3.73 Vehicle 4300 V6 4800 V8 5300 V8 6000 V8 Maximum Trailer Weight G2500 Cargo Van 2WD 4,700 lbs. (2 132 kg) 6,400 lbs. (2 903 kg) 7,400 lbs. (3 357 kg) 6,600 lbs. (2 994 kg) 8,400 lbs. (3 810 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 536 kg) Maximum Trailer Weight H2500 Cargo Van AWD 6,400 lbs. (2 903 kg) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight G2500 Cargo Van 2WD Long Wheelbase 3.73 4,500 lbs. (2 041 kg) 3.
Vehicle 6000 V8 Vehicle 6000 V8 Vehicle 6000 V8 Vehicle 6000 V8 4-42 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight G2500 Passenger Van 2WD Short Wheelbase 3.73 7,900 lbs. (3 583 kg) 4.10 9,900 lbs. (4 491 kg) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight G2500 Passenger Van 2WD Long Wheelbase 3.73 7,500 lbs. (3 402 kg) 4.10 9,500 lbs. (4 309 kg) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight G3500 Cargo Van 2WD Short Wheelbase 3.73 8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg) 4.10 10,000 lbs.
Vehicle 6000 V8 Vehicle 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight G3500 Passenger Van 2WD Short Wheelbase 3.73 7,800 lbs. (3 538 kg) 4.10 9,800 lbs. (4 445 kg) Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight G3500 Passenger Van 2WD Long Wheelbase 3.73 7,400 lbs. (3 357 kg) 4.10 9,400 lbs. (4 264 kg) The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and trailer including any passengers, cargo equipment and conversion. The GCWR for your vehicle should not be exceeded.
Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. If you have a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo in your vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight your vehicle can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight your vehicle can tow.
After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer. Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight Carrying Hitches Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires.
If you’ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when you’re driving. You should always use a sway control if your trailer will weigh more than these limits. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls.
Driving with a Trailer {CAUTION: If you have a rear-most window open and you pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle. You can not see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness or death. See Engine Exhaust on page 2-30. To maximize your safety when towing a trailer: • Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, and make necessary repairs before starting on your trip. • Keep the rear-most windows closed.
Passing Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have extra wiring and a heavy-duty turn signal flasher (included in the optional trailering package). Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.
When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a lower temperature than at normal altitudes. If you turn your engine off immediately after towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, your vehicle may show signs similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let the engine run while parked (preferably on level ground) with the automatic transmission in PARK (P) for a few minutes before turning the engine off.
Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip.
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Service ............................................................5-3 Doing Your Own Service Work .........................5-3 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle ..............................................5-4 Fuel ................................................................5-4 Gasoline Octane ............................................5-4 Gasoline Specifications ....................................5-5 California Fuel ............................
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care When It Is Time for New Tires .......................5-69 Buying New Tires .........................................5-70 Uniform Tire Quality Grading ..........................5-71 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ..................5-72 Wheel Replacement ......................................5-72 Tire Chains ..................................................5-73 If a Tire Goes Flat ........................................5-74 Changing a Flat Tire .....................
Service Doing Your Own Service Work Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you will go to your dealer for all your service needs. You will get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. If you want to do some of your own service work, you will want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can.
CAUTION: (Continued) • Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “English” and “metric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt. Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle.
Gasoline Specifications California Fuel It is recommended that gasoline meet specifications which were developed by automobile manufacturers around the world and contained in the World-Wide Fuel Charter which is available from the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers at www.autoalliance.org. Gasoline meeting these specifications could provide improved driveability and emission control system performance compared to other gasoline.
Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing your emission control system to work properly. You should not have to add anything to your fuel. However, some gasolines contain only the minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
Filling Your Tank {CAUTION: The fuel cap is located behind a hinged door on the driver’s side of your vehicle. Fuel vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Do not smoke if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from fuel. To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). While refueling, place the fuel cap in the holder provided.
{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” noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. Be careful not to spill fuel. Clean fuel from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle on page 5-95.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container Checking Things Under the Hood {CAUTION: Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others: • Dispense gasoline only into approved containers. • Do not fill a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed or on any surface other than the ground.
Hood Release To open the hood, do the following: 1. Pull this handle inside the vehicle. It is located in front of the driver’s side door frame near the floor. 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and lift up the secondary hood release underneath the middle of the hood. 3. Lift the hood.
4. Release the hood prop from its retainer and put the hood prop into the slot in the hood hinge on the driver’s side. If your vehicle has an underhood lamp, it will automatically come on and stay on until the hood is closed. Before closing the hood, be sure all of the filler caps are on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. then let the hood down and close it firmly.
Engine Compartment Overview When you lift the hood, you’ll see these items: 5-12
A. Battery. See Battery on page 5-41. B. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Radiator Pressure Cap on page 5-25. C. Coolant Recovery Tank. See Cooling System on page 5-28. D. Transmission Fluid Dipstick. See Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 5-19. E. Engine Oil Fill. See Engine Oil on page 5-13. F. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine Oil on page 5-13. G. Air Filter Restriction Indicator. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-18. H. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-18. I.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for the location of the engine oil fill cap. When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, then you will need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications on page 5-106. Notice: Do not add too much oil.
• SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, if it is going to be 0°F (–18°C) or above and SAE 5W-30 is not available, you may use SAE 10W-30. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50. Oils meeting these requirements should also have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API).
Notice: Use only engine oil identified as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and showing the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty. GM Goodwrench® oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), it is recommended that you use either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil.
How to Reset the Change Engine Oil Light What to Do with Used Oil The GM Oil Life System calculates when to change your engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. Anytime your oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change your oil prior to a Change Engine Oil light being turned on, reset the system. Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for the location of the engine air cleaner/filter and change indicator (if equipped). How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter To inspect the air cleaner/filter, remove the filter from the vehicle and lightly shake filter to release loose dust and dirt. If the filter remains caked with dirt, a new filter is required.
2. Lift the filter out of the engine air cleaner/filter housing. Care should be taken to dislodge as little dirt as possible. 3. Clean the engine air cleaner/filter housing. 4. Install the new engine air cleaner/filter into the engine air cleaner/filter housing. Make sure that it fits properly into the housing. 5. Reinstall the cover and fasten the retaining clips. {CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned.
How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine part or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat.
Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: The transmission dipstick is located near the center of the engine compartment and will be labeled with this graphic shown. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. • Flip the handle up and then pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. • Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again. • Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level.
How to Add Fluid Engine Coolant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12. The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only DEX-COOL® extended life coolant.
What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don’t need to add anything else. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. Notice: If you use the proper coolant, you do not have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system. These can be harmful.
Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank. {CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap — even a little — when the engine and radiator are hot.
Radiator Pressure Cap The radiator pressure cap is located near the center of the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. Notice: If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured. Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument panel.
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. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: • • • • Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer. See “Driving on Grades” in Towing a Trailer on page 4-37.
Cooling System When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the COLD FILL mark. If it isn’t, you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: {CAUTION: A. Radiator Pressure Cap B. Coolant Recovery Tank C.
If there seems to be no leak, start the engine again. See if the engine cooling fan speed increases when idle speed is doubled by pushing the accelerator pedal down. If it doesn’t, your vehicle needs service. Turn off the engine. Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant is not covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.
Notice: Filling the engine cooling system of a V8 engine only through the radiator neck and engine coolant overflow reservoir after the engine coolant has been drained may cause too little engine coolant to be added. Although the coolant level may appear full in the radiator neck, it may be as much as 4 to 6 quarts (3.8 to 5.7 L) low. Always fill the engine cooling system through the upper radiator hose. See your dealer for more information.
{CAUTION: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap — even a little — they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap. If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more thing you can try.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap. 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. (Don’t press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. See Engine Coolant on page 5-22 for more information about the proper coolant mixture. 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD FILL mark. 5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.
6. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan. 7. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck. 5-34 8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap.
Engine Fan Noise Power Steering Fluid Your vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan. When the clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster to provide more air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the fan is spinning slower and the clutch is not fully engaged. This improves fuel economy and reduces fan noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing and/or high outside temperatures, the fan speed increases as the clutch more fully engages. So you may hear an increase in fan noise.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid What to Use It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. To determine what kind of fluid to use, see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.
Adding Washer Fluid Notice: • When using concentrated washer fluid, follow Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. • Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water does not clean as well as washer fluid.
Brakes Brake Fluid that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes will not work well, or will not work at all. So, it is not a good idea to “top off” your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid will not correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you will have too much fluid when you get new brake linings.
Checking Brake Fluid Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir. {CAUTION: With the wrong kind of fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid. You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap. Just look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should be above MIN.
Brake Wear Your vehicle has four-wheel disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly). {CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes will not work well. That could lead to an accident.
Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system — for example, when your brake linings wear down and you need new ones put in — be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you do not, your brakes may no longer work properly.
Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to follow the steps below to do it safely. {CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: • They contain acid that can burn you. • They contain gas that can explode or ignite. • They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.
4. Open the hoods and locate the positive (+) and negative (−) terminal locations of the other vehicle. Your vehicle has a remote positive (+) jump starting terminal and a remote negative (−) jump starting terminal. You should always use these remote terminals instead of the terminals on the battery. The remote positive (+) terminal is located behind a red plastic cover near the engine accessory drive bracket on the driver’s side below the alternator.
5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative (−) will go to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one.
7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (−) cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (−) terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery. 9.
To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: 1. Disconnect the black negative (−) cable from the vehicle that had the dead battery. 2. Disconnect the black negative (−) cable from the vehicle with the good battery. 3. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the vehicle with the good battery. 4. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the other vehicle. 5. Return the positve (+) remote terminal to its original position. Jumper Cable Removal A.
All-Wheel Drive 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 Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4. How to Check Lubricant To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant.
Rear Axle When to Check Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4. How to Check Lubricant To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. 5-48 If you have the 1500 Series, the proper level is from 5/8 inch (15 mm) to 1 5/8 inch (40 mm) below the bottom of the filler plug hole. The proper level for the 2500 and 3500 Series is from 0 to 1/4 (6 mm) below the bottom of the filler plug hole.
Front Axle When to Check and Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4. How to Check Lubricant To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to raise the level to 3/8 inch (10 mm) below the filler plug hole.
Noise Control System Tampering with Noise Control System Prohibited The following information relates to compliance with federal noise emission standards for vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg). The Maintenance Schedule provides information on maintaining the noise control system to minimize degradation of the noise emission control system during the life of your vehicle. The noise control system warranty is given in your warranty booklet.
Bulb Replacement For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer. For the type of bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 5-55. Halogen Bulbs {CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. Headlamps 1. Remove the two bolts from the headlamp assembly. 2. Remove the two pins on the top of the headlamp assembly.
8. Without removing the headlamp assembly itself, remove the bulb socket from the back of the headlamp on the driver’s side. 9. Turn the bulb counterclockwise one quarter turn to remove it from the socket. 10. On the passenger’s side, turn the bulb clockwise one turn. Do not touch the glass part of the bulb. 5-52 11. Install the new bulb into the socket and return it to the headlamp assembly. 12. Put the headlamp assembly back into the vehicle and reinstall the two pins.
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Parking Lamps 1. Use a small tool to unlatch the outboard clip on this lamp. Taillamps 1. Remove the two inboard nuts on the side assembly. 2. Pull the lamp forward to completely unlatch the clip. Move the lamp outboard to loosen the tabs. 3. Remove the lamp from the grille. 4. Squeeze the tab on the side of the bulb assembly while turning it counterclockwise. 5. Remove the bulb assembly from the back of the lens and replace the bulb. 6.
8. To remove, squeeze the tab on the side of the sockets while turning them counterclockwise. 9. Turn the bulb counterclockwise to remove it. Install the new bulb. 10. Reverse the above steps to reinstall the lamp.
Center High Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamp Bulb Number Back-up Lamp 3157 CHMSL 912 Composite High-Beam 9005 Headlamps Composite Low-Beam 9006GS Headlamps Front Parking and Turn Lamp 3157KX Front Sidemarker Lamp 194 Sealed Beam Headlamps H6054 Rear Parking, Stop, and 3157 Turn Lamp For any bulb not listed here, contact your dealer. It is recommended that this component be replaced as a unit by your dealer.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement 2. Press down on the blade assembly pivot locking tab. Pull down on the blade assembly to release it from the wiper arm hook. Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least twice a year for wear and cracking. See ″Wiper Blade Check” in Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4. 3. The insert has two notches at one end that are locked by bottom claws of the blade assembly. At the notched end, pull the insert from the blade assembly. 4.
Tires CAUTION: Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer’s booklet included with your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual. • Underinflated tires pose the same danger • {CAUTION: Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
(A) Tire Size Code: The tire size code is a combination of letters and numbers used to define a particular tire’s width, height, aspect ratio, construction type and service description. See the “Tire Size Code” illustration later in this section for more detail. (B) Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec): Original equipment tires designed to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall.
(D) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following DOT code are the Tire Identification Number (TIN). The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side may have the date of manufacture. (E) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.
(A) Tire Size: The tire size code is a combination of letters and numbers used to define a particular tire’s width, height, aspect ratio, construction type and service description. See the “Tire Size” illustration later in this section for more detail. (B) Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec): Original equipment tires designed to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines.
Tire Size (B) Tire Width: The three-digit number indicates the tire section width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. The following examples show the different parts of a tire size. (C) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that indicates the tire height-to-width measurements. For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is “75,” as shown in item “C” of the illustration, it would mean that the tire’s sidewall is 75% as high as it is wide.
(D) Construction Code: A letter code is used to indicate the type of ply construction in the tire. The letter “R” means radial ply construction; the letter “D” means diagonal or bias ply construction; and the letter “B” means belted-bias ply construction. (E) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches. Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire (A) Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: The United States version of a metric tire sizing system.
Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords that is located between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made from steel or other reinforcing materials. Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim. Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Normal Occupant Weight: The number of occupants a vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 150 pounds (68 kg). See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-31. Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions. Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of a asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight, occupant weight and cargo weight. Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the original equipment tire size and recommended inflation pressure. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-31. Inflation - Tire Pressure The tire and loading information label, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold.
How to Check Dual Tire Operation Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. Check the tire’s inflation pressure when the tires are cold. cold means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles (8 000 to 13 000 km). The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4. Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels.
{CAUTION: If your vehicle has dual rear wheels, always use one of the correct rotation patterns shown here when rotating your tires. When you install dual wheels, be sure that vent holes in the inner and outer wheels on each side are lined up. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Certification/Tire label of the Tire and Loading Information label. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-31. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened.
When It Is Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. Some commercial truck tires may not have treadwear indicators. You need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: • You can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire. • You can see cord or fabric showing through the tire’s rubber.
Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Certification/Tire label or the Tire and Loading Information label. For examples of these labels and their location on your vehicle, see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-31. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, General Motors recommends that you get tires with that same TPC Spec number.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1.5) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
Temperature – A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
Used Replacement Wheels {CAUTION: Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you lose control. You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for replacement.
CAUTION: (Continued) damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and you or others may be injured in a crash. Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer’s instructions. To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the device if it’s contacting your vehicle, and don’t spin your wheels.
{CAUTION: {CAUTION: Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. The jack provided with your vehicle is designed only for changing a flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you or others could be badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off the jack. Use the jack provided with your vehicle only for changing a flat tire. Changing a tire can be dangerous.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools If you have a cargo van or a passenger van, the equipment you’ll need is located in the rear passenger side of corner of the vehicle. The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. 5-76 Remove the retaining wing bolt and lift it off the mounting bracket.
If you have a van with the 15–passenger seating arrangement, the equipment you’ll need is secured on the rear passenger side floor of the vehicle. The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A), jack handle extension (B), jack handle (C), wheel wrench (D) and the ratchet (E). Remove the retaining wing bolt and lift it out of the mounting bracket. Your spare tire is stored underneath the rear of your vehicle. You will use the wheel wrench (D) and the ratchet (E) to lower the spare tire.
Attach the wheel wrench and ratchet, with the DOWN side facing you. The wheel wrench has a socket end and a flat chisel end. Put the flat chisel end of the wheel wrench on an angle through the hole between the body and the bumper. Be sure the flat end connects into the hoist shaft. Turn the ratchet counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground. If the spare tire does not lower to the ground, the secondary latch is engaged causing the tire not to lower.
When the tire has been lowered, pull the tire toward you so you can reach the tire retainer and pull it up through the wheel opening. If you have a vehicle which was completed from a cab and chassis, refer to the information from the body supplier/installer. The spare tire is a full-size tire, like the other tires on your vehicle. Notice: If you drive away before the spare tire or secondary latch system cable has been reinstalled, you could damage your vehicle.
Secondary Latch System Your vehicle has an underbody mounted tire hoist assembly equipped with a secondary latch system. It’s designed to stop the spare tire from suddenly falling off your vehicle if the cable holding the spare tire is damaged. For the secondary latch to work, the tire must be stowed with the valve stem pointing down. See “Storing the Spare Tire and Tools” later in this section for instructions on storing the spare tire correctly.
4. Connect the jack handle (C) and jack handle extension (B) together and press the retention clip (arrow) so it engages. 1. Check under the vehicle to see if the cable end is visible. 2. If the cable is not visible, start this procedure at Step 6. 3. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until approximately 6 inches (15 cm) of cable is exposed. 5.
7. Keep raising the jack until the spare tire stops moving upward and is held firmly in place, this lets you know that the secondary latch has released. The secondary latch has released and the spare tire is balancing on the jack. 8. Lower the jack by turning the ratchet counterclockwise. Keep lowering the jack until the spare tire slides off the jack or is hanging by the cable. 6. Place the jack under the vehicle, ahead of the rear bumper.
10. Tilt the retainer at the end of the cable and pull it through the wheel opening. Pull the tire out from under the vehicle. Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 11. If the cable is hanging under the vehicle, turn the wheel wrench in the hoist shaft hole in the bumper clockwise to raise the cable back up. 1. With the DOWN side facing you, use the ratchet and wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove them yet. Have the hoist assembly inspected as soon as you can.
Rear Position Rear Flat: Assemble the jack (A) together with the jack handle (B), jack handle extension (C) and ratchet (D) as shown. Be sure that the ratchet has the UP mark facing you. To assemble the jack handle and jack handle extension, use the art and text following. 5-84 Connect the jack handle (B) and jack handle extension (C) together and press the retention clip (arrow) so it engages.
3. Position the jack under the vehicle as shown. Rear Position Front Position {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: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle. 4. Raise the vehicle by turning the ratchet clockwise. Make sure the UP mark faces you. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.
5. Remove all the wheel nuts, and take off the flat tire. 6. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. {CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle.
8. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. {CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 7. Put the wheel nuts back on with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each wheel nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. 5-88 9. Tighten the nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise.
{CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to come loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to the proper torque specification. See “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index for wheel nut torque specification.
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools {CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. 1. Put the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem pointed down. 2. Pull the retaining bar through the center of the wheel, making sure it is properly attached.
5. Put the flat end of the wheel wrench on an angle through the hole in the rear door frame, above the bumper. 6. Raise the tire fully against the underside of the vehicle. Continue turning the ratchet until the tire is secure and the cable is tight. The spare tire hoist cannot be overtightened. 7. Make sure the tire is stored securely. Push, pull, and then try to rotate or turn the tire. If the tire moves, use the ratchet to tighten the cable. You will hear two ″clicks” when the tire is up all the way. 3.
Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flames if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything from a container to clean your vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you are cleaning the inside.
Here are some cleaning tips: • Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. • Clean up stains as soon as you can — before they set. • Carefully scrape off any excess stain. • Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains are stubborn. • If a ring forms on fabric after spot cleaning, clean the entire area immediately or it will set. Using Cleaner on Fabric 1. Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. 2.
Cleaning Vinyl Use warm water and a clean cloth. • Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You may have to do this more than once. • Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if you do not get them off quickly. Use a clean cloth and vinyl cleaner. See your dealer for this product. Cleaning Leather Use a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap or saddle soap and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Then, let the leather dry naturally. Do not use heat to dry.
Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. {CAUTION: Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six months.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under “Washing Your Vehicle.” Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your vehicle by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. See Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials on page 5-99. Your vehicle has a “basecoat/clearcoat” paint finish.
Cleaning the Windshield and Wiper Blades cleaners with acid, or abrasive cleaning brushes on them because you could damage the surface. Do not use chrome polish on aluminum wheels. If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running, wax, sap or other material may be on the blade or windshield. Do not take your vehicle through an automatic car wash that has silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes.
Finish Damage Chemical Paint Spotting Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode quickly and may develop into major repair expense. Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on your vehicle. This damage can take two forms: blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface.
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials See your GM dealer for more information on purchasing the following products. Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials Description Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials (cont’d) Description Usage Swirl Remover Polish Removes swirl marks, fine scratches and other light surface contamination. Usage Polishing Cloth Wax-Treated Interior and exterior polishing cloth. Cleaner Wax Removes light scratches and protects finish.
Vehicle Identification Service Parts Identification Label Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) You’ll find this label on the front passenger door frame. It’s very helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label is: • • • • This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle.
Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment Notice: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Some add-on electrical equipment can keep other components from working as they should. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your vehicle, see Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-78.
Fuses and Circuit Breakers Floor Console Fuse Block The floor console fuse block is located under the driver’s seat.
Fuse 22 32 33 Relays 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Circuit Breaker 34 Usage Front Park Lamp Auxilary1 Auxilary2 Usage Window Residual Accessory Power Auxiliary Right Rear Defogger Courtesy Lamp Cargo Unlock Driver Unlock Park Lamp Door Locks Pass Unlock Usage Power Window Engine Compartment Fuse Block The fuse block is in the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
Fuse 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 5-104 Usage Right Rear Turn Lamp Backup Lamps Trailer Wiring Ignition 0 Stop Lamp Right Rear Defogger/Heated Mirror Right Daytime Running Lamp/Turn Signal Left Daytime Running Lamp/Turn Signal Truck Body Control Module 4 Fuel Pump Trailer Flasher Horn Truck Body Control Module 3 Trailer Stop/Turn Signal Truck Body Control Module 2 Truck Body Control Module Remote Function Actuator Engine 2 Fuse 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 Usa
Fuse 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 Usage Oxygen Sensor A Windshield Wipers Right Headlamp — Low Beam Left Headlamp — Low Beam Left Headlamp — High Beam Right Headlamp — High Beam Truck Body Control Module-Accessory Front Windshield Wiper Anti-Lock Brakes Ignition A Trailer Climate Control Blower Ignition B Fuse 63 64 Relay 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 61 62 Circuit Breaker 60 Usage Spare Spare Usage Windshield Wiper Air Conditioning Spare Headlamp —High Beam Fuel Pump Headlamp — Low Beam Horn Starter Sp
Capacities and Specifications Please refer to Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12. All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the appropriate level or as recommended in this manual. See refrigerant charge label under the hood for charge capacity information and requirements.
Application VORTEC™ 5300 V8 VORTEC™ 6000 V8 Capacities QTY Without Rear Heater QTY With Rear Heater 13.4 quarts (12.7 L) 16.4 quarts (15.5 L) 14.8 quarts (14.0 L) 17.8 quarts (17.0 L) Capacities English Metric Application Engine Oil With Filter After refill, the level must be rechecked. Add enough engine oil so that the fluid is within the proper operating range. See Engine Oil on page 5-13 VORTEC™ 4300 V6 (Vin W) 4.5 quarts 4.3 L VORTEC™ 4800 V8 ( Vin V) 6.0 quarts 5.7 L VORTEC™ 5300 V8 (Vin T) 6.
✍ NOTES 5-108
Section 6 Maintenance Schedule Maintenance Schedule ......................................6-2 Introduction ...................................................6-2 Maintenance Requirements ..............................6-2 Your Vehicle and the Environment ....................6-2 Using Your Maintenance Schedule ....................6-3 Scheduled Maintenance ...................................6-4 Additional Required Services ............................6-6 Maintenance Footnotes ................................
Maintenance Schedule Introduction Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level and change as recommended. Maintenance Requirements Notice: Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections, replacement parts and recommended fluids and lubricants as prescribed in this manual are necessary to keep your vehicle in good working condition. Any damage caused by failure to follow scheduled maintenance may not be covered by warranty.
Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we do not know exactly how you will drive it. You may drive very short distances only a few times a week. Or you may drive long distances all the time in very hot, dusty weather. You may use your vehicle in making deliveries. Or you may drive it to work, to do errands or in many other ways. Because of all the different ways people use their vehicles, maintenance needs vary.
Owner Checks and Services on page 6-9 tells you what should be checked, when to check it and what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition. The proper replacement parts, fluids and lubricants to use are listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12 and Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 6-14. When your vehicle is serviced, make sure these are used. All parts should be replaced and all necessary repairs done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle.
Scheduled Maintenance Service Change engine oil and filter. Reset oil life system. See Engine Oil on page 5-11. An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components. See footnote #. Visually check for any leaks or damage. See footnote (j). Inspect engine air cleaner filter change indicator. If necessary, replace filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-15. An Emission Control Service. See footnote †. Rotate tires and check inflation pressures and wear. See Tires on page 5-51.
Additional Required Services The following services should be performed at the first maintenance service (I or II) after the indicated miles (kilometers) shown for each item. Additional Required Services 25,000 (41 500) 50,000 (83 000) 75,000 (125 000) 100,000 (166 000) 125,000 (207 500) 150,000 (240 000) Inspect fuel system for damage or leaks. • • • • • • Inspect exhaust system for loose or damaged components. • • • • • • Repack front wheel bearings. See footnote (k).
Additional Required Services (cont’d) Service 25,000 (41 500) 50,000 (83 000) 75,000 (125 000) 100,000 (166 000) Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An Emission Control Service. Inspect evaporative control system. An Emission Control Service. See footnotes † and (l). Maintenance Footnotes † The U.S.
(e) Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.
Owner Checks and Services These owner checks and services should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Your GM Goodwrench dealer can assist you with these checks and services. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.
At Least Once a Year Starter Switch Check {CAUTION: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-26 if necessary. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts. 3. Try to start the engine in each gear.
Ignition Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. • The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). • The key should come out only in LOCK. Contact your GM Goodwrench dealer if service is required. Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission Park (P) Mechanism Check {CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move.
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your dealer. Usage Fluid/Lubricant Engine oil which meets GM Standard GM6094M and displays the American Petroleum Institute Certified for Gasoline Engines Engine Oil starburst symbol. To determine the proper viscosity for your vehicle’s engine, see Engine Oil on page 5-11. 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only Engine Coolant DEX-COOL® Coolant.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant Wheel bearing lubricant meeting Front Wheel requirements of NLGI #2, Category Bearings GC or GC-LB (GM Part No. U.S. 1051344, in Canada 993037). SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle (GM Part No. U.S. Front and Rear Lubricant 12378261, in Canada 10953455) or Axle equivalent meeting GM Specification 9986115. ® Transfer Case DEXRON -III Automatic Transmission Fluid. One-Piece Propshaft Slip Spline Lubricant, Special Lubricant Yoke Spline, (GM Part No. U.S.
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained by your dealer. PartEngine (VIN Code) Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 4.3L (W) V6 4.8L (V), 5.3L (T), 6.0L (U) V8 Engine Oil Filter 4.3L (W) V6 4.8L (V), 5.3L (T), 6.0L (U) V8 Fuel Filter 4.3L (W) V6 4.8L (V), 5.3L (T), 6.0L (U) V8 Passenger Compartment Air Filter Kit 4.3L (W) V6 4.8L (V), 5.3L (T), 6.0L (U) V8 PCV Valve 4.3L (W) V6 Spark Plugs 4.3L (W) V6 4.8L (V), 5.3L (T), 6.
Engine Drive Belt Routing V8 Engine V6 Engine 6-15
Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service and the type of services performed in the boxes provided. See Maintenance Requirements on page 6-2 in this section. Any additional information from Owner Checks and Services on page 6-9 can be added on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts.
Maintenance Record (cont’d) Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed 6-17
Maintenance Record (cont’d) Date 6-18 Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed
Section 7 Customer Assistance and Information Customer Assistance and Information ...............7-2 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ......................7-2 Online Owner Center ......................................7-3 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users ...............................................7-4 Customer Assistance Offices ............................7-4 GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities ..................................................
Customer Assistance and Information Customer Satisfaction Procedure Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to your dealer and to GMC. Normally, any concerns with the sales transaction or the operation of your vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service departments. Sometimes, however, despite the best intentions of all concerned, misunderstandings can occur.
The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court program administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus to settle automotive disputes regarding vehicle repairs or the interpretation of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Although you may be required to resort to this informal dispute resolution program prior to filling out a court action, use of the program is free of charge and your case will generally be heard within 40 days.
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired and who use the Text Telephones (TTYs), GMC has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with GMC by dialing: 1-800-GMC-8583 (462-8583). (TTY users in Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.) From Puerto Rico 1-800-496-9992 (English) 1-800-496-9993 (Spanish) Fax Number: 313-381-0022 U.S.
Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) General Motors de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. Customer Assistance Center Paseo de la Reforma # 2740 Col. Lomas de Bezares C.P. 11910, Mexico, D.F.
Roadside Assistance Program Security While You Travel 1-800-GMC-8782 (1-800-462-8782, Roadside Assistance prompt) As the proud owner of a new GMC vehicle, you are automatically enrolled in the GMC Roadside Assistance program. This value-added service is intended to provide you with peace of mind as you drive in the city or travel the open road. GMC’s Roadside Assistance toll-free number is staffed by courteous and capable Roadside Assistance Representatives who are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
For prompt and efficient assistance when calling, please provide the following to the Roadside Assistance Representative: • Your name, home address, and home telephone number • • • • Canadian Roadside Assistance Vehicles purchased in Canada have an extensive roadside assistance program accessible from anywhere in Canada or the United States. Please refer to the Warranty and Owner Assistance Information book.
If your vehicle cannot be scheduled into the service department immediately, keep driving it until it can be scheduled for service, unless, of course, the problem is safety-related. If it is, please call your dealership, let them know this, and ask for instructions. If the dealer requests that you simply drop the vehicle off for service, you are urged to do so as early in the work day as possible to allow for the same day repair.
Additional Program Information Courtesy Transportation is available during the Bumper-to-Bumper warranty coverage period, but it is not part of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. A separate booklet entitled Warranty and Owner Assistance Information furnished with each new vehicle provides detailed warranty coverage information. Courtesy Transportation is available only at participating dealers and all program options, such as shuttle service, may not be available at every dealer.
Unlike the data recorders on many airplanes, these on-board systems do not record sounds, such as conversation of vehicle occupants. Others, such as law enforcement, may have access to the special equipment that can read the information if they have access to the vehicle or SDM. To read this information, special equipment is needed and access to the vehicle or the SDM is required.
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: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation Washington, D.C. 20590 You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the hotline.
Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer Case Unit Repair Manual This manual provides information on unit repair service procedures, adjustments, and specifications for GM transmissions, transaxles, and transfer cases. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $50.00 Service Bulletins Service Bulletins give technical service information needed to knowledgeably service General Motors cars and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to assist in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle.
A Accessory Power Outlets ................................. 3-18 Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ............................. 1-79 Adding Washer Fluid ....................................... 5-37 Additional Program Information ........................... 7-9 Additives, Fuel ................................................. 5-6 Add-On Electrical Equipment ........................... 5-101 Add-On Equipment ..........................................
Audio System(s) (cont.) Setting the Time for Radios with Radio Data Systems (RDS) ....................... Setting the Time for Radios without Radio Data Systems (RDS) ....................... Theft-Deterrent Feature ................................ Understanding Radio Reception ..................... Automatic Transmission Fluid .......................................................... Operation ................................................... 3-43 3-43 3-72 3-72 5-19 2-24 B Backing Up .................
Cargo Vans with a Passenger Air Bag and an Air Bag Off Switch, Passenger Vans and Cab and Chassis Models ....................... 1-36 Cargo Vans with a Passenger Air Bag and without an Air Bag Off Switch ........................ 1-39 Cassette Tape Messages ................................. 3-58 CD Adapter Kits ............................................. 3-58 CD Messages ................................ 3-50, 3-60, 3-71 Center High Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) ......................................
Climate Control System ................................... 3-19 Outlet Adjustment ........................................ 3-21 Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System ......... 3-22 Rear Heating System ................................... 3-22 Control of a Vehicle .......................................... 4-6 Coolant Engine Temperature Gage ............................ 3-34 Heater, Engine ............................................ 2-23 Low Warning Light .......................................
Driving on Snow or Ice .................................... Driving Through Deep Standing Water ............... Driving Through Flowing Water ......................... Driving with a Trailer ....................................... Dual Stage Air Bags ........................................ Dual Tire Operation ......................................... 4-26 4-20 4-20 4-47 1-72 5-66 E Electrical System Add-On Equipment ..................................... 5-101 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ..................
Fluid Automatic Transmission ................................ 5-19 Power Steering ........................................... 5-35 Windshield Washer ...................................... 5-36 FM ............................................................... 3-72 Following Distance .......................................... 4-47 Front Axle ...................................................... 5-49 Fuel ............................................................... 5-4 Additives ..........................
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator .................. 5-32 How to Add Fluid ............................................ 5-22 How to Check ........................................ 5-20, 5-66 How to Check Lubricant ................................... 5-48 How to Check Power Steering Fluid .................. 5-36 How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ....... 5-18 How to Use This Manual ...................................... ii How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ................... 1-15 Hydroplaning ....
Light (cont.) Brake System Warning ................................. 3-32 Change Engine Oil ...................................... 3-38 Charging System ......................................... 3-30 Check Gages Warning ................................. 3-41 Cruise Control ............................................. 3-39 Daytime Running Lamps Indicator .................. 3-40 Low Coolant Warning ................................... 3-34 Malfunction Indicator ....................................
Mirrors Manual Rearview Mirror ................................ 2-32 Outside Camper-Type Mirrors ........................ 2-32 Outside Convex Mirror ................................. 2-34 Outside Heated Mirrors ................................ 2-34 Outside Manual Mirror .................................. 2-32 Outside Power Mirrors .................................. 2-33 Model Reference ................................................ vi MyGMLink.com ................................................
Payload ......................................................... 4-37 Plan Ahead When Possible ................................ 7-7 Playing a Cassette Tape .................................. 3-56 Playing a CD ................................. 3-48, 3-58, 3-66 Playing a Specific Loaded CD .......................... 3-67 Playing the Radio ................... 3-43, 3-46, 3-50, 3-61 Power Accessory Outlets ........................................ 3-18 Door Locks ................................................
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire .................................................. 5-83 Removing the Rear Seat ................................... 1-6 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools ................... 5-76 Removing the Wheel Covers ............................ 5-83 Replacement Bulbs ......................................... 5-55 Replacing Brake System Parts .......................... 5-41 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash ..............................................
Securing a Child Restraint (cont.) Rear Outside Seat Position ........................... 1-57 Right Front Seat Position .............................. 1-62 Security Light ................................................. 3-39 Security While You Travel .................................. 7-6 Service ........................................................... 5-3 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle .............................................. 5-4 Doing Your Own Work .............................
Tires ............................................................. 5-57 Buying New Tires ........................................ 5-70 Chains ....................................................... 5-73 Changing a Flat Tire .................................... 5-75 Dual Tire Operation ..................................... 5-66 If a Tire Goes Flat ....................................... 5-74 Inflation - Tire Pressure ................................ 5-65 Inspection and Rotation .............................
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ............................................ 5-100 Service Parts Identification Label .................. 5-100 Vehicle Storage .............................................. 5-41 Ventilation Adjustment ...................................... 3-21 Visor Vanity Mirror .......................................... 2-19 Visors ........................................................... 2-19 Voltmeter Gage ..............................................
