GMC Automobile 2005 GMC Envoy User Manual

2005 GMC Envoy, Envoy XL, Envoy Denali,  
and Envoy XL Denali Owner Manual M  
OnStar® System  
HomeLink® Wireless Control System  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
You will also find a circle  
with a slash through it in  
this book. This safety  
symbol means “Do Not,”  
“Do Not do this” or  
Safety Warnings and Symbols  
There are a number of safety cautions in this book. We  
use a box and the word CAUTION to tell about things  
that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.  
“Do Not 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.  
Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce  
the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you do not,  
you or others could be hurt.  
iii  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Vehicle Damage Warnings  
Vehicle Symbols  
Also, in this manual you will find these notices:  
The vehicle has components and labels that use  
symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along  
with the text describing the operation or information  
relating to a specific component, control, message,  
gage, or indicator.  
Notice: These mean there is something that could  
damage your vehicle.  
A notice tells about something that can damage the  
vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered  
by your vehicle’s warranty, and it could be costly. But  
the notice will tell what to do to help avoid the damage.  
If you need help figuring out a specific name of a  
component, gage, or indicator, reference the  
following topics:  
When you read other manuals, you might see  
CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors  
or in different words.  
Seats and Restraint Systems in Section 1  
Features and Controls in Section 2  
Instrument Panel Overview in Section 3  
Climate Controls in Section 3  
There are also warning labels on the vehicle. They use  
the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.  
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators in Section 3  
Audio System(s) in Section 3  
Engine Compartment Overview in Section 5  
iv  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle:  
v
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
NOTES  
vi  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Section 1  
Seats and Restraint Systems  
1-1  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Front Seats  
Manual Seats  
{CAUTION:  
You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to  
adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle  
is moving. The sudden movement could startle  
and confuse you, or make you push a pedal  
when you do not want to. Adjust the driver’s  
seat only when the vehicle is not moving.  
Lift the bar located under the front of the seat to  
unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it and  
release the bar. Try to move the seat with your body  
to be sure the seat is locked in place.  
1-3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If you have this feature, the power seat controls are  
located on the outboard side of the front seat cushions.  
The horizontal control adjusts the seat cushion and  
the vertical control adjusts the seatback.  
Power Seats  
Move the front of the seat control up or down to  
adjust the front portion of the cushion.  
Move the rear of the seat control up or down to  
adjust the rear portion of the cushion.  
Lift up or push down on the center of the seat  
control to move the entire seat up or down.  
To move the seat forward or rearward, slide the  
seat control forward or rearward.  
To recline the seatback, press the vertical control  
rearward. To raise the seatback, press the vertical  
control forward. See Reclining Seatbacks on  
page 1-7 for more information.  
1-4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Manual Lumbar  
Power Lumbar  
Your vehicle may have this feature.  
If your vehicle has this  
feature, there is a knob  
located on the outboard  
side of the driver’s seat.  
The control is located  
on the outboard side  
of the seat cushion.  
To increase or decrease support, hold the control  
forward or rearward. Keep in mind that as your  
seating position changes, as it may during long trips,  
so should the position of your lumbar support.  
Adjust the seat as needed.  
Turn the knob counterclockwise to increase lumbar  
support and clockwise to decrease lumbar support.  
1-5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The low setting warms the seatback and seat cushion  
until the seat temperature is near body temperature. The  
medium and high settings heat the seatback and seat  
cushion to a slightly higher temperature. You will be able  
to feel heat in about two minutes.  
Heated Seats  
Your vehicle may have  
heated front seats. The  
buttons used to control this  
feature are located on  
the front door armrests.  
The engine must be  
To heat only the seatback, press the button with the  
words BACK ONLY. An indicator light on the switch  
will glow to designate that only the seatback is being  
heated. Additional presses will cycle through the  
heat levels for the seatback only. Press the horizontal  
button again to heat the whole seat.  
running for the heated  
seat feature to work.  
The feature will shut off automatically when the ignition  
is turned off.  
To heat the entire seat, press the horizontal button with  
the heated seat symbol. Press the button repeatedly  
to cycle through the temperature settings of high,  
medium, low and off. The indicator lights above the  
button will glow to designate the level of heat selected:  
three for high, two for medium, and one for low.  
1-6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If your vehicle has  
power seats, the power  
reclining seatback  
Reclining Seatbacks  
control is located on  
the outboard side of  
the front seat cushions.  
Press the control rearward  
to recline the seatback.  
Press the control forward  
to raise the seatback.  
If your vehicle has a manual recliner, lift the lever  
located on the outboard side of the seat and push the  
seatback rearward to recline the seatback. To return  
the seatback to the normal position, lift the lever without  
pushing rearward on the seatback and the seatback  
will move forward.  
1-7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
{CAUTION:  
Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle  
is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you  
buckle up, your safety belts cannot do their  
job when you are reclined like this.  
The shoulder belt cannot do its job. In a crash,  
you could go into it, receiving neck or other  
injuries.  
The lap belt cannot do its job either. In a crash  
the belt could go up over your abdomen. The  
belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic  
bones. This could cause serious internal  
injuries.  
But do not have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is  
moving.  
For proper protection when the vehicle is in  
motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit  
well back in the seat and wear your safety belt  
properly.  
1-8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Head Restraints  
Rear Seats  
Rear Seat Operation  
Envoy/Envoy Denali  
Your vehicle may have a folding rear seat which lets  
you fold the seatbacks down for more cargo space.  
Adjust your head restraint so that the top of the  
restraint is closest to the top of your head. This position  
reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.  
The head restraints lock into place when raised.  
To release the head restraint and lower it, press the  
tab located on the top of the seatback.  
Pull up on the loop located where the seat cushion  
meets the seatback to fold the seat cushion up and  
out of the way. This will allow the seatback to fold flat  
and increase the cargo area.  
1-9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The rear seatback  
levers are located on  
the outboard side of  
the rear seatbacks.  
Pull the seatback toward you as you lift up on the lever.  
The head restraint will automatically fold out of the  
way when the seatback is folded down.  
To return the head restraint to the upright position,  
reach behind the seat and pull the restraint up until it  
locks into place. Push and pull on the head restraint to  
make sure that it is latched securely.  
To raise the seatbacks, lift up the seatbacks and  
push on them until they lock into the upright position.  
Push and pull on the seatbacks to make sure that  
they are latched securely. Then fold the bottom seat  
cushion back into place.  
1-10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Returning the Seats to an Upright Position  
Envoy XL and Envoy XL Denali  
The second row seat is a 65/35 split seat which may  
be folded and tumbled. Use this feature for gaining  
access to the third row seats.  
Do the following:  
1. Guide the seat to the floor to engage the seat  
hooks with the floor pins.  
To fold and tumble the second row seat(s), do the  
following:  
2. Try to raise the seat to check that it is locked down.  
3. Pull the seatback up to return it to the upright  
position.  
1. Push the head restraints fully down.  
2. Fold the seatback flat  
on the seat by pulling  
up on the front part  
of the lever. The lever  
is located on the  
Entry/Exit to/from the Third Row Seat  
To enter the third row seat, you must fold and tumble  
the second row seat following the instructions given  
previously.  
outboard side of the  
seat indicated with  
a 1 on the handle  
cover and side of the  
seatback.  
If you are exiting the third row with no assistance, do  
the following.  
1. Pull the handle on the center of the second row  
seatback down to release and fold the seatback.  
2. Reach around to the side of the second row seat  
and pull the back of the seat lever up to tumble  
the entire seat.  
3. Release the rear set of seat hooks from the floor  
pins by pulling up on the rear part of the lever  
indicated with a 2 on the handle cover and the  
side of the seatback. This enables the seat to be  
tumbled forward.  
Be sure to return the seat to the upright position when  
you are finished. Never use the third row seat as a  
seating position while the second row is folded  
and tumbled.  
1-11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Folding the Third Row Seats  
1. Pull up on the handle located on the bottom of the  
seat cushion to release the seat cushion.  
Safety Belts  
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone  
2. Lift up the seat, and then pull it forward.  
3. Fold the seatback forward until it is flat.  
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.  
4. Unhook the elastic loop on the back of the seatback.  
5. Flip the panel located on the back of the seatback  
forward to make a flat surface.  
{CAUTION:  
Returning the Seat(s) to an Upright  
Position  
Do not let anyone ride where he or she can  
not wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a  
crash and you are not wearing a safety belt,  
your injuries can be much worse. You can hit  
things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it.  
You can be seriously injured or killed. In the  
same crash, you might not be, if you are  
buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt,  
and check that your passengers’ belts are  
fastened properly too.  
To return the seat to its original position, reverse the  
steps listed previously in folding the third row seats.  
1-12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law  
says to wear safety belts. Here is why: They work.  
{CAUTION:  
You never know if you will be in a crash. If you do have  
a crash, you do not know if it will be a bad one.  
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo  
area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a  
collision, people riding in these areas are more  
likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not  
allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle  
that is not equipped with seats and safety  
belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in  
a seat and using a safety belt properly.  
A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so  
serious that even buckled up, a person would not  
survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of  
them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes  
walk away. Without belts they could have been badly  
hurt or killed.  
After more than 30 years of safety belts in vehicles,  
the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up  
does matter...a lot!  
Your vehicle has a light  
that comes on as a  
reminder to buckle up.  
Light on page 3-34.  
1-13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Why Safety Belts Work  
When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as  
it goes.  
Put someone on it.  
Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a seat on  
wheels.  
1-14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider  
does not stop.  
The person keeps going until stopped by something.  
In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...  
1-15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
or the instrument panel...  
or the safety belts!  
With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does.  
You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance,  
and your strongest bones take the forces. That is why  
safety belts make such good sense.  
1-16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Questions and Answers About  
Safety Belts  
Q: If I am a good driver, and I never drive far from  
home, why should I wear safety belts?  
A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you are in an  
accident — even one that is not your fault — you  
and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good  
driver does not protect you from things beyond your  
control, such as bad drivers.  
Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident  
if I am wearing a safety belt?  
A: You could be — whether you are wearing a safety  
belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt,  
even if you are upside down. And your chance  
of being conscious during and after an accident,  
so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater  
if you are belted.  
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).  
Safety belts are for everyone.  
Q: If my vehicle has airbags, why should I have  
to wear safety belts?  
A: Airbags are in many vehicles today and will  
be in most of them in the future. But they are  
supplemental systems only; so they work with  
safety belts — not instead of them. Every airbag  
system ever offered for sale has required the use of  
safety belts. Even if you are in a vehicle that has  
airbags, you still have to buckle up to get the most  
protection. That is true not only in frontal collisions,  
but especially in side and other collisions.  
1-17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly  
This part is only for people of adult size.  
Be aware that there are special things to know about  
safety belts and children. And there are different  
rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be  
riding in your vehicle, see Older Children on page 1-31  
or Infants and Young Children on page 1-34. Follow  
those rules for everyone’s protection.  
First, you will want to know which restraint systems  
your vehicle has.  
We will start with the driver position.  
Driver Position  
3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.  
Do not let it get twisted.  
Lap-Shoulder Belt  
The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt  
across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt  
go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt  
across you more slowly.  
The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here is how to  
wear it properly.  
1. Close and lock the door.  
4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.  
2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight.  
To see how, see “Seats” in the Index.  
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.  
If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt  
Extender on page 1-30.  
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.  
1-18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the  
shoulder belt.  
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on  
the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies  
force to the strong pelvic bones. And you would be less  
likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the  
belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause  
serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go  
over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of  
the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.  
The safety belt locks if there is a sudden stop or crash,  
or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.  
1-19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Q: What is wrong with this?  
{CAUTION:  
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder  
belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move  
forward too much, which could increase injury.  
The shoulder belt should fit against your body.  
A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It will not give nearly  
as much protection this way.  
1-20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Q: What is wrong with this?  
{CAUTION:  
You can be seriously injured if your belt is  
buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash,  
the belt would go up over your abdomen.  
The belt forces would be there, not at the  
pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal  
injuries. Always buckle your belt into the  
buckle nearest you.  
A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.  
1-21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Q: What is wrong with this?  
{CAUTION:  
You can be seriously injured if you wear the  
shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your  
body would move too far forward, which would  
increase the chance of head and neck injury.  
Also, the belt would apply too much force to  
the ribs, which are not as strong as shoulder  
bones. You could also severely injure internal  
organs like your liver or spleen.  
A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should  
be worn over the shoulder at all times.  
1-22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Q: What is wrong with this?  
{CAUTION:  
You can be seriously injured by a twisted  
belt. In a crash, you would not have the full  
width of the belt to spread impact forces.  
If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can  
work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.  
A: The belt is twisted across the body.  
To unlatch the belt, 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.  
1-23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy  
Right Front Passenger Position  
Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant  
women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be  
seriously injured if they do not wear safety belts.  
To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety  
belt properly, see Driver Position on page 1-18.  
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.  
Rear Seat Passengers  
It is very important for rear seat passengers to buckle  
up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in  
the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those  
who are wearing safety belts.  
Rear passengers who are not safety belted can be  
thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike  
others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.  
A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt,  
and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible,  
below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.  
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the  
mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it is more  
likely that the fetus will not be hurt in a crash. For  
pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making  
safety belts effective is wearing them properly.  
1-24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.  
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.  
Lap-Shoulder Belt  
All rear seat positions have lap-shoulder belts.  
Here is how to wear one properly.  
When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way,  
it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and  
start again. If the belt is not long enough, see  
Safety Belt Extender on page 1-30.  
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.  
Do not let it get twisted.  
The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt  
across you very quickly. If this happens, let the  
belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt  
across you more slowly.  
3. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the  
shoulder part.  
1-25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
{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  
would be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid  
under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen.  
This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The  
shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across  
the chest. These parts of the body are best able to  
take belt restraining forces.  
To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle.  
1-26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for  
Children and Small Adults  
Rear shoulder belt comfort guides may provide added  
safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown  
booster seats and for some adults. When attached to  
a shoulder belt, the comfort guide positions the belt  
away from the neck and head.  
There is one guide for each of the rear outside  
passenger positions. Here is how to attach the comfort  
guide to the shoulder belt.  
1. Find the comfort guide located on a storage clip  
between the interior body and the seatback or  
in a pocket sewn into the side of the seatback.  
Slide the guide off of its storage clip or out of the  
pocket.  
2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic  
cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide  
over the belt and insert the two edges of the  
belt into the slots of the guide.  
1-27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
4. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.  
The elastic cord must be under the belt and the  
guide on top.  
3. Your comfort guide may have an adjuster to  
lengthen or shorten the cord. If it does, you  
can adjust the cord by following these steps.  
3.1. Squeeze and hold the ends of the lock (A)  
on the elastic cord.  
3.2. Pull the loop to shorten the guide or pull  
the cord to lengthen the guide.  
3.3. Release the lock.  
1-28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
{CAUTION:  
A safety belt that is not properly worn may  
not provide the protection needed in a crash.  
The person wearing the belt could be seriously  
injured. The shoulder belt should go over the  
shoulder and across the chest. These parts of  
the body are best able to take belt restraining  
forces.  
5. Buckle, position, and release the safety belt as  
described in Rear Seat Passengers on page 1-24.  
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. Slide the guide back onto its storage clip or  
into its storage pocket.  
1-29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Safety Belt Pretensioners  
Safety Belt Extender  
Your vehicle has safety belt pretensioners for the driver  
and right front passenger. Although you cannot see  
them, they are located on the retractor part of the safety  
belts. They help the safety belts reduce a person’s  
forward movement in a moderate to severe frontal, near  
frontal or side crash or a rollover.  
If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you  
should use it.  
But if a safety belt is not long enough, your dealer will  
order you an extender. It is free. When you go in to  
order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so  
the extender will be long enough for you. To help avoid  
personal injury, do not let someone else use it, and  
use it only for the seat it is made to fit. The extender  
has been designed for adults. Never use it for securing  
child seats. To wear it, just attach it to the regular  
safety belt. For more information, see the instruction  
sheet that comes with the extender.  
Pretensioners work only once. If they activate in a  
crash, you will need to get new ones, and probably other  
new parts for your safety belt system. See Replacing  
1-30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts?  
Child Restraints  
A: An older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt  
and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt  
can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross  
the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly  
below the hips, just touching the top of the thighs.  
It should never be worn over the abdomen,  
which could cause severe or even fatal internal  
injuries in a crash.  
Older Children  
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they  
are restrained in the rear seat.  
In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike  
other people who are buckled up, or can be thrown  
out of the vehicle. Older children need to use safety  
belts properly.  
Older children who have outgrown booster seats should  
wear the vehicle’s safety belts.  
1-31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt,  
but the child is so small that the shoulder belt  
is very close to the child’s face or neck?  
A: If the child is sitting in a seat next to a window,  
move the child toward the center of the vehicle.  
Children and Small Adults on page 1-27. If the  
child is sitting in the center rear seat passenger  
position, move the child toward the safety belt  
buckle. In either case, be sure that the shoulder  
belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash  
the child’s upper body would have the restraint  
the belts provide.  
{CAUTION:  
Never do this.  
Here two children are wearing the same belt.  
The belt can not properly spread the impact  
forces. In a crash, the two children can be  
crushed together and seriously injured. A belt  
must be used by only one person at a time.  
1-32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
{CAUTION:  
Never do this.  
Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a  
lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is  
behind the child. If the child wears the belt in  
this way, in a crash the child might slide under  
the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied  
right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause  
serious or fatal injuries.  
Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt  
should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching  
the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s  
pelvic bones in a crash.  
1-33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
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.  
Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles,  
they should have the protection provided by appropriate  
restraints. Young children should not use the vehicle’s  
adult safety belts alone, unless there is no other choice.  
Instead, they need to use a child restraint.  
{CAUTION:  
People should never hold a baby in their arms  
while riding in a vehicle. A baby does not weigh  
much — until a crash. During a crash a baby will  
become so heavy it is not possible to hold it.  
For example, in a crash at only 25mph(40km/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.  
1-34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
CAUTION: (Continued)  
Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its  
airbag system is designed for them. Young  
children and infants need the protection that a  
child restraint system can provide.  
Q: What are the different types of add-on child  
restraints?  
A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased by  
the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic  
types. Selection of a particular restraint should  
take into consideration not only the child’s weight,  
height, and age but also whether or not the  
restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle  
in which it will be used.  
{CAUTION:  
Children who are up against, or very close to,  
any airbag when it inflates can be seriously  
injured or killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts  
offer protection for adults and older children,  
but not for young children and infants.  
For most basic types of child restraints, there are  
many different models available. When purchasing  
a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be  
used in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will  
have a label saying that it meets federal motor  
vehicle safety standards.  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
1-35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The restraint manufacturer’s instructions that come  
with the restraint state the weight and height  
limitations for a particular child restraint. In addition,  
there are many kinds of restraints available for  
children with special needs.  
{CAUTION:  
The body structure of a young child is quite  
unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom  
the safety belts are designed. A young child’s  
hip bones are still so small that the vehicle’s  
regular safety belt may not remain low on the  
hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle  
up around the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the  
belt would apply force on a body area that is  
unprotected by any bony structure. This alone  
could cause serious or fatal injuries. Young  
children always should be secured in  
{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 much  
compared 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 secured in appropriate  
infant restraints.  
appropriate child restraints.  
1-36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Child Restraint Systems  
A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with  
the seating surface against the back of the infant.  
The harness system holds the infant in place and,  
in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in  
the restraint.  
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.  
1-37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
1-38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
A shield may take the place of hip straps. A  
T-shaped shield has shoulder straps that are  
attached to a flat pad which rests low against the  
child’s body. A shelf- or armrest-type shield  
has straps that are attached to a wide, shelf-like  
shield that swings up or to the side.  
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.  
When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child  
restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is,  
it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor  
vehicle safety standards.  
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. The vehicle’s  
belt system secures the add-on child restraint in the  
vehicle, and the add-on child restraint’s harness  
system holds the child in place within the restraint.  
Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may  
find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a  
booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system or  
the LATCH system in your vehicle, but the child also  
has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the  
chance of personal injury. When securing an add-on  
child restraint, refer to the instructions that come with the  
restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a  
booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint  
instructions are important, so if they are not available,  
obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer.  
One system, the three-point harness, has  
straps that come down over each of the infant’s  
shoulders and buckle together at the crotch.  
The five-point harness system has two shoulder  
straps, two hip straps and a crotch strap.  
1-39  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Where to Put the Restraint  
{CAUTION:  
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they  
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.  
General Motors recommends 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.  
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be  
seriously injured or killed if the right front  
passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the  
back of the rear-facing child restraint would be  
very close to the inflating airbag.  
Your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate  
a rear-facing child restraint. A label on your sun  
visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the  
front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing  
child is so great, if the airbag deploys.  
Even though the passenger sensing system is  
designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal  
airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child  
restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one can  
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under  
some unusual circumstance, even though it is  
turned off. General Motors recommends that  
rear-facing child restraints be secured in the  
rear seat, even if the airbag is off.  
If you need to secure a forward-facing child  
restraint in the right front seat, always move  
the front passenger seat as far back as it will  
go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a  
rear seat.  
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child  
restraint properly.  
1-40  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can  
move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure  
people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure  
any child restraint in your vehicle — even when no  
child is in it.  
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. If yours requires  
that the top strap be anchored, do not use the restraint  
unless it is anchored properly.  
In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child  
restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be  
anchored. In the United States, some child restraints  
also have a top strap. If your child restraint has a  
top strap, it should be anchored.  
If the child restraint does not have a top strap, one  
can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints.  
Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not  
a kit is available.  
Anchor the top strap to an anchor point specified in  
Top Strap Anchor Location on page 1-42. 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.  
For 5 passenger vehicles, fold down the head restraint  
and route the top strap under it. See Rear Seat  
Operation on page 1-9.  
1-41  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
For 7 passenger vehicles, if the position you are  
using has an adjustable head restraint, raise the  
head restraint and route the top strap under it.  
See Head Restraints on page 1-9.  
Top Strap Anchor Location  
{CAUTION:  
Each top tether bracket is designed to anchor  
only one child restraint. Attaching more than  
one child restraint to a single bracket could  
cause the anchor to come loose or even break  
during a crash. A child or others could be  
injured if this happens. To help prevent injury  
to people and damage to your vehicle, attach  
only one child restraint per bracket.  
Five-passenger Vehicles  
For five-passenger vehicles, there is a top strap anchor  
for each rear seating position. The anchors are  
located on the floor in the cargo area of your vehicle.  
Do not use the rear tie-down brackets near the  
liftgate for top straps.  
Once you have the top strap anchored, you will be  
ready to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top  
strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s  
instructions say.  
1-42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Do not secure a child restraint in the right front  
passenger’s position or in the third row seating positions  
(if equipped) 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. There is no place to anchor the top  
strap in these positions.  
Seven-passenger Vehicles  
For seven-passenger vehicles, there is a top strap  
anchor for each seating position in the second row.  
The anchors are located at the bottom rear of the  
seat cushion.  
1-43  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers  
for Children (LATCH System)  
Your vehicle has the LATCH system. There are anchors  
for the outboard seating positions in the second row.  
This system, designed to make installation of child  
restraints easier, does not use the vehicle’s safety belts.  
Instead, it uses vehicle anchors and child restraint  
attachments to secure the restraints. Some restraints  
also use another vehicle anchor to secure a top  
tether strap.  
A. Lower Anchorage  
B. Lower Anchorage  
C. Top Tether  
1-44  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
For five-passenger vehicles, the labels are located  
above a flap, at the base of the seatback, in the rear  
outside seating positions. The anchors are located under  
the flap. In order to get to the anchors you will need  
to pull the strap at the center of the seat where the  
seat cushion meets the seatback. This will allow you to  
fold the seat cushion up and out of the way. Lift the  
flap to expose the anchors and then lower the seat  
cushion. Be sure the cushion is locked into place.  
For seven-passenger vehicles, the labels are located  
near the base of the seatback in the second row outside  
seating positions.  
{CAUTION:  
A. Lower Anchorage  
B. Lower Anchorage  
If a LATCH-type child restraint is not attached  
to its anchorage points, the restraint will not be  
able to protect the child correctly. In a crash,  
the child could be seriously injured or killed.  
Make sure that a LATCH-type child restraint is  
properly installed using the anchorage points,  
or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the  
restraint, following the instructions that came  
with that restraint, and also the instructions in  
this manual.  
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.  
1-45  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Securing a Child Restraint Designed  
for the LATCH System  
Securing a Child Restraint in a  
Rear Outside Seat Position  
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.  
Children (LATCH System) on page 1-44.  
If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH  
on page 1-41 if the child restraint has one.  
There are no top strap anchors at the third row seating  
positions. 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.  
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.  
If your child restraint does not have the LATCH  
system, you will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure  
the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow  
the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure  
the child in the child restraint when and as the  
instructions say.  
4. 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. Also see Top Strap on page 1-41.  
5. Push and pull the child restraint in different  
directions to be sure it is secure.  
1. Put the child restraint on the seat.  
2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder  
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or  
around the restraint. The child restraint instructions  
will show you how.  
To remove the child restraint, simply unhook the  
top tether from the top tether anchorage and then  
disconnect the LATCH attachments from the LATCH  
anchorages.  
1-46  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of  
the retractor to set the lock.  
1-47  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
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.  
Securing a Child Restraint in the  
Center Seat Position  
Many child restraints are too wide to be correctly secured  
in the center rear seat, although some of them will fit  
there. If the center seat position is too narrow for your  
child restraint, secure it in a rear outside seat position.  
If you secure a child restraint in the center seat position,  
follow the instructions in Securing a Child Restraint in  
5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint,  
pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the  
lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder  
belt back into the retractor. If you are using a  
forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful  
to use your knee to push down on the child  
restraint as you tighten the belt.  
6. Push and pull the child restraint in different  
directions to be sure it is secure.  
1-48  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Securing a Child Restraint in the  
Right Front Seat Position  
{CAUTION:  
Your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag. A rear  
seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child  
restraint. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 1-40.  
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be  
seriously injured or killed if the right front  
passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because  
the back of the rear-facing child restraint  
would be very close to the inflating airbag.  
In addition, your vehicle has a passenger sensing  
system. The passenger sensing system is designed to  
turn off the right front passenger’s frontal airbag  
when an infant in a rear-facing infant seat or a small  
child in a forward-facing child restraint or booster seat is  
detected. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-62  
for more information on this including important  
safety information.  
Even though the passenger sensing system is  
designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal  
airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child  
restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one can  
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under  
some unusual circumstance, even though it is  
turned off. General Motors recommends that  
rear-facing child restraints be secured in the  
rear seat, even if the airbag is off.  
A label on your sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing  
child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the  
rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys.  
If you need to secure a forward-facing child restraint  
in the right front seat position, move the seat as far back  
as it will go before securing the forward-facing child  
restraint. See Power Seats on page 1-4.  
If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH  
Children (LATCH System) on page 1-44.  
1-49  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
There is no top strap anchor at the right front seating  
position. Do not secure a child seat in this position if a  
national or local law requires that the top strap be  
anchored or if the instructions that come with the child  
restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. See  
Top Strap on page 1-41 if your child restraint has one.  
2. Put the child restraint on the seat.  
3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder  
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or  
around the restraint. The child restraint instructions  
will show you how.  
You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child  
restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions  
that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the  
child restraint when and as the instructions say.  
1. Your vehicle has a right front passenger’s frontal  
airbag. See Passenger Sensing System on  
page 1-62. General Motors recommends that  
rear-facing child restraints be secured in a rear seat,  
even if the airbag is off. If your child restraint is  
forward-facing, move the seat as far back as it will  
go before securing the child restraint in this  
seat. See Power Seats on page 1-4.  
When the passenger sensing system has turned off  
the right front passenger’s frontal airbag, the off  
indicator in the passenger airbag status indicator  
should light and stay lit when you turn the ignition to  
RUN or START. See Passenger Airbag Status  
Indicator on page 3-36.  
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.  
1-50  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of  
the retractor to set the lock.  
6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child  
restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt  
to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the  
shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are  
using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find  
it helpful to use your knee to push down on the  
child restraint as you tighten the belt. You should  
not be able to pull more of the belt from the retractor  
once the lock has been set.  
1-51  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
7. Push and pull the child restraint in different  
directions to be sure it is secure.  
Airbag System  
Your vehicle has a frontal airbag for the driver and  
another frontal airbag for the right front passenger.  
Your vehicle may also have roof-mounted airbags  
designed for either side impact or rollover deployment.  
Roof-mounted airbags are available for the driver  
and the passenger seated directly behind the driver  
and for the right front passenger and the passenger  
seated directly behind that passenger.  
8. If the airbag is off, the off indicator in the inside  
rearview mirror will be lit and stay lit when the  
key is turned to RUN or START.  
If a child restraint has been installed and the on  
indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the child  
restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the child restraint.  
If after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting  
the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to make  
sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not pressing the child  
restraint into the seat cushion. If this happens, slightly  
recline the vehicle’s seatback and adjust the seat  
cushion if possible. Also make sure the child restraint is  
not trapped under the vehicle head restraint. If this  
happens, adjust the head restraint.  
If your vehicle has roof-mounted airbags, the words  
AIR BAG will appear on the airbag covering on  
the sidewall trim near the driver’s and right front  
passenger’s window.  
Frontal airbags are designed to help reduce the risk  
of injury from the force of an inflating frontal airbag.  
But these airbags must inflate very quickly to do their  
job and comply with federal regulations.  
If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child  
restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle and  
check with your dealer.  
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.  
1-52  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Here are the most important things to know about the  
airbag system:  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
The roof-mounted airbags are designed to  
inflate only in moderate to severe crashes  
where something hits the side of your vehicle.  
They are not designed to inflate in frontal  
or in rear crashes. If the vehicle is equipped  
with rollover capable airbags, it has been  
designed to deploy the roof-mounted airbags  
in the event of a vehicle rollover. Everyone  
in your vehicle should wear a safety belt  
properly — whether or not there is an airbag  
for that person.  
{CAUTION:  
You can be severely injured or killed in a crash  
if you are not wearing your safety belt — even  
if you have airbags. Wearing your safety belt  
during a crash helps reduce your chance of  
hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected  
from it. Airbags are “supplemental restraints”  
to the safety belts. All airbags are designed to  
work with safety belts but do not replace them.  
Frontal airbags for the driver and right front  
passenger are designed to deploy only in  
moderate to severe frontal and near frontal  
crashes. They are not designed to inflate in  
rollover, rear or low-speed frontal crashes, or in  
many side crashes. And, for some unrestrained  
occupants, frontal airbags may provide less  
protection in frontal crashes than more forceful  
airbags have provided in the past.  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
1-53  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
{CAUTION:  
{CAUTION:  
Both frontal and roof-mounted airbags inflate  
with great force, faster than the blink of an  
eye. If you are too close to an inflating airbag,  
as you would be if you were leaning forward, it  
could seriously injure you. Safety belts help  
keep you in position for airbag inflation before  
and during a crash. Always wear your safety  
belt even with frontal airbags. The driver  
Anyone who is up against, or very close to,  
any airbag when it inflates can be seriously  
injured or killed. Airbags 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 airbag  
system is designed for them. Young children  
and infants need the protection that a child  
restraint system can provide. Always secure  
children properly in your vehicle. To read how,  
see Older Children on page 1-31 or Infants and  
Young Children on page 1-34.  
should sit as far back as possible while still  
maintaining control of the vehicle. Occupants  
should not lean on or sleep against the door.  
There is an airbag  
readiness light on  
the instrument panel  
cluster, which shows  
the airbag symbol.  
The system checks the airbag electrical system for  
malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical  
problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-35  
for more information.  
1-54  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Where Are the Airbags?  
The right front passenger’s airbag is in the instrument  
panel on the passenger’s side.  
The driver’s airbag is in the middle of the steering  
wheel.  
1-55  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If your vehicle has a roof-mounted airbag for the driver  
and the person seated directly behind the driver, it  
is located in the ceiling above the side windows.  
If your vehicle has a roof-mounted airbag for the right  
front passenger and the person directly behind that  
passenger, it is located in the ceiling above the  
side windows.  
1-56  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
When Should an Airbag Inflate?  
{CAUTION:  
The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal airbags  
are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal  
or near-frontal crashes. But they are designed to inflate  
only if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment  
threshold. Deployment thresholds take into account  
a variety of desired deployment and non-deployment  
events and are used to predict how severe a crash  
is likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate and help  
restrain the occupants. Whether your frontal airbags  
will or should deploy is not based on how fast your  
vehicle is traveling. It depends largely on what you hit,  
the direction of the impact and how quickly your  
vehicle slows down.  
If something is between an occupant and an  
airbag, the bag might not inflate properly or it  
might force the object into that person causing  
severe injury or even death. The path of an  
inflating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put  
anything between an occupant and an airbag,  
and do not attach or put anything on the  
steering wheel hub or on or near any other  
airbag covering. And, if your vehicle has  
roof-mounted airbags, never secure anything  
to the roof of your vehicle by routing the rope  
or tiedown through any door or window  
opening. If you do, the path of an inflating  
side impact airbag will be blocked. The path  
of an inflating airbag must be kept clear.  
In addition, your vehicle has “dual stage” frontal  
airbags, which adjust the restraint according to crash  
severity. Your vehicle is equipped with electronic frontal  
sensors, which help the sensing system distinguish  
between a moderate frontal impact and a more severe  
frontal impact. For moderate frontal impacts, these  
airbags inflate at a level less than full deployment.  
1-57  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
For more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs.  
If the front of your vehicle goes straight into a wall  
that does not move or deform, the threshold level  
for the reduced deployment is about 9 to 16 mph  
(14 to 26 km/h), and the threshold level for a full  
deployment is about 18 to 25 mph (29 to 40 km/h).  
(The threshold level can vary, however, with specific  
vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above  
or below this range.)  
Your vehicle may or may not have a roof-mounted  
airbag and rollover sensor. See Airbag System  
on page 1-52. These “rollover capable” airbags are  
designed to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes  
or during a rollover. A side impact airbag will inflate  
if the crash severity is above the system’s designed  
“threshold level.” The threshold level can vary with  
specific vehicle design. Side impact airbags are not  
designed to inflate in frontal or near-frontal impacts, or  
rear impacts, because inflation would not likely help  
the occupant.  
Airbags may inflate at different crash speeds.  
For example:  
Your vehicle has seat position sensors which enable the  
sensing system to monitor the position of the driver’s  
seat and the right front passenger’s seat. Seat position  
sensors provide information that is used to determine  
if the airbags should deploy at a reduced level or at full  
deployment.  
If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the airbag  
could inflate at a different crash speed than if  
the object were moving.  
If the object deforms, the airbag could inflate at a  
different crash speed than if the object does not  
deform.  
In any particular crash, no one can say whether an  
airbag should have inflated simply because of the  
damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs  
were. For frontal airbags, inflation is determined by  
the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle  
slows down in frontal and near-frontal impacts. For side  
impact airbags, inflation is determined by the location  
and severity of the impact.  
If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole) the  
airbag could inflate at a different crash speed  
than if the vehicle hits a wide object (like a wall).  
If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle the  
airbag could inflate at a different crash speed  
than if the vehicle goes straight into the object.  
The frontal airbags (driver and right front passenger)  
are not intended to inflate during vehicle rollovers, rear  
impacts, or in many side impacts because inflation  
would not likely help the occupants.  
1-58  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The airbag system is designed to work properly under  
a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage.  
Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough  
terrain. As always, wear your safety belt. See Off-Road  
page 4-15 for tips on off-road driving.  
How Does an Airbag Restrain?  
In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions,  
even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel  
or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side  
collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside  
of the vehicle. The airbag supplements the protection  
provided by safety belts. Airbags distribute the force of  
the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper  
body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But the  
frontal airbags would not help you in many types  
of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts, and  
many side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s  
motion is not toward the airbag. Roof-mounted airbags  
would not help you in many types of collisions,  
including frontal or near frontal collisions, and rear  
impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is  
not toward those airbags. Airbags should never  
be regarded as anything more than a supplement to  
safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal  
or near-frontal collisions for the driver’s and right front  
passenger’s frontal airbags, and only in moderate  
to severe side collisions or rollovers for the roof-mounted  
airbags.  
What Makes an Airbag Inflate?  
In an impact of sufficient severity, the airbag sensing  
system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. In the  
case of a “rollover capable” roof-mounted airbag, the  
sensing system detects that the vehicle is about to  
roll over. For both frontal and roof-mounted airbags,  
the sensing system triggers a release of gas from the  
inflator, which inflates the airbag. The inflator, airbag,  
and related hardware are all part of the airbag modules  
inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel  
in front of the right front passenger. For vehicles  
with roof-mounted airbags, the airbag modules are  
located in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the side  
windows.  
1-59  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
What Will You See After an  
Airbag Inflates?  
{CAUTION:  
After an airbag inflates, it quickly deflates, so  
When an airbag inflates, there is dust in the  
air. This dust could cause breathing problems  
for people with a history of asthma or other  
breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in  
the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe  
to do so. If you have breathing problems but  
cannot get out of the vehicle after an airbag  
inflates, then get fresh air by opening a  
window or a door. If you experience breathing  
problems following an airbag deployment,  
you should seek medical attention.  
quickly that some people may not even realize the  
airbag inflated. Some components of the airbag  
module — the steering wheel hub for the driver’s  
airbag, the instrument panel for the right front  
passenger’s bag or the ceiling of your vehicle near  
the side windows — 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. There will be  
some smoke and dust coming from the vents in the  
deflated airbags. Airbag inflation does not prevent the  
driver from seeing or being able to steer the vehicle,  
nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.  
1-60  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Your vehicle has a feature that will automatically unlock  
the doors and turn the interior lamps on when the  
airbags inflate (if battery power is available). You can  
lock the doors again and turn the interior lamps off  
by using the door lock and interior lamp controls.  
Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and  
diagnostic module which records information after  
Data Recorders on page 7-9.  
Let only qualified technicians work on your airbag  
system. Improper service can mean that your  
airbag system will not work properly. See your  
dealer for service.  
In many crashes severe enough to inflate an airbag,  
windshields are broken by vehicle deformation.  
Additional windshield breakage may also occur from  
the right front passenger airbag.  
Notice: If you damage the covering for the driver’s  
or the right front passenger’s airbag, or the side  
impact airbag covering on the ceiling near the side  
windows, the airbag may not work properly. You  
may have to replace the airbag module in the  
steering wheel, both the airbag module and the  
instrument panel for the right front passenger’s  
airbag, or side impact airbag module and ceiling  
covering for roof-mounted side impact airbags.  
Do not open or break the airbag coverings.  
Airbags are designed to inflate only once. After  
an airbag inflates, you will need some new parts  
for your airbag system. If you do not get them, the  
airbag system will not be there to help protect  
you in another crash. A new system will include  
airbag modules and possibly other parts. The  
service manual for your vehicle covers the need  
to replace other parts.  
1-61  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The passenger sensing system will turn off the right  
front passenger’s frontal airbag under certain conditions.  
The driver’s airbag and the side airbags are not part  
of the passenger sensing system.  
Passenger Sensing System  
Your vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the  
right front passenger’s position. A passenger airbag  
status indicator in the rearview mirror will be visible  
when you turn your ignition key to START or RUN.  
The words ON and OFF or the symbol for on and off,  
will be visible on the rearview mirror during the system  
check. When the system check is complete, either  
the word ON or the word OFF, or the symbol for on or  
the symbol for off will be visible. See Passenger  
Airbag Status Indicator on page 3-36.  
The passenger sensing system works with sensors that  
are part of the right front passenger’s seat and safety  
belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence  
of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the  
passenger’s frontal airbag should be enabled (may  
inflate) or not.  
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they  
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.  
General Motors recommends 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.  
Your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate  
a rear-facing child restraint. A label on your sun  
visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the  
front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child  
is so great, if the airbag deploys.  
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator – United States  
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator – Canada  
1-62  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off  
the right front passenger’s frontal airbag if:  
the right front passenger seat is unoccupied  
{CAUTION:  
the system determines that an infant is present in a  
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be  
seriously injured or killed if the right front  
passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because  
the back of the rear-facing child restraint  
would be very close to the inflating airbag.  
rear-facing infant seat  
the system determines that a small child is present  
in a forward-facing child restraint  
the system determines that a small child is present  
in a booster seat  
Even though the passenger sensing system  
is designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal  
airbag if the system detects a rear-facing  
child restraint, no system is fail-safe, and  
no one can guarantee that an airbag will not  
deploy under some unusual circumstance,  
even though it is turned off. General Motors  
recommends that rear-facing child restraints  
be secured in the rear seat, even if the airbag  
is off.  
a right front passenger takes his/her weight off of  
the seat for a period of time  
the right front passenger seat is occupied by a  
smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown  
child restraints  
or if there is a critical problem with the airbag  
system or the passenger sensing system.  
When the passenger sensing system has turned off  
the passenger’s frontal airbag, the off indicator in  
the rearview mirror will light and stay lit to remind you  
that the airbag is off.  
If a child restraint has been installed and the on  
indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the child  
restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the child restraint  
following the child restraint manufacturer’s directions  
Front Seat Position on page 1-49.  
1-63  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting  
the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to make  
sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not pressing the  
child restraint into the seat cushion. If this happens,  
slightly recline the vehicle’s seatback and adjust the  
seat cushion if possible. Also make sure the child  
restraint is not trapped under the vehicle head restraint.  
If this happens, adjust the head restraint.  
If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front  
passenger’s seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be  
because that person is not sitting properly in the seat.  
If this happens, turn the vehicle off and ask the person  
to place the seatback in the fully upright position,  
then sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion,  
with the person’s legs comfortably extended. Restart  
the vehicle and have the person remain in this position  
for about two minutes. This will allow the system to  
detect that person and then enable the passenger’s  
airbag.  
If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the  
child restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle  
and check with your dealer.  
The passenger sensing system is designed to  
enable (may inflate) the right front passenger’s frontal  
airbag anytime the system senses that a person of adult  
size is sitting properly in the right front passenger’s  
seat. When the passenger sensing system has allowed  
the airbag to be enabled, the on indicator will light  
and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is active.  
For some children who have outgrown child restraints  
and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system  
may or may not turn off the right front passenger’s  
frontal airbag, depending upon the person’s seating  
posture and body build. Everyone in your vehicle who  
has outgrown child restraints should wear a safety  
belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag for  
that person.  
1-64  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
{CAUTION:  
{CAUTION:  
If the airbag readiness light in the instrument  
panel cluster ever comes on and stays on,  
it means that something may be wrong with  
the airbag system. If this ever happens, have  
the vehicle serviced promptly, because an  
adult-size person sitting in the right front  
passenger’s seat may not have the protection  
of the frontal airbag. See Airbag Readiness  
Light on page 3-35 for more on this, including  
important safety information.  
Stowing of articles under the passenger’s  
seat or between the passenger’s seat cushion  
and seatback may interfere with the proper  
operation of the passenger sensing system.  
Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, can  
affect how well the passenger sensing system operates.  
You may want to consider not using seat covers or  
other aftermarket equipment if your vehicle has  
the passenger sensing system. See Adding Equipment  
more information about modifications that can affect  
how the system operates.  
1-65  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped  
Vehicle  
Adding Equipment to Your  
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle  
Airbags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.  
There are airbag system parts in several places around  
your vehicle. You do not 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 airbag system. To  
purchase a service manual, see Service Publications  
Ordering Information on page 7-11.  
Q: Is there anything I might add to the front  
or sides of the vehicle that could keep the  
airbags from working properly?  
A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s  
frame, bumper system, front end or side sheet  
metal or height, they may keep the airbag system  
from working properly. Also, the airbag system may  
not work properly if you relocate any of the airbag  
sensors. If you have any questions about this,  
you should contact Customer Assistance before  
you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers  
and addresses for Customer Assistance are in  
Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure  
in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction  
Procedure on page 7-2.  
{CAUTION:  
For up to 10 seconds after the ignition key  
is turned off and the battery is disconnected,  
an airbag can still inflate during improper  
service. You can be injured if you are close  
to an airbag when it inflates. Avoid yellow  
connectors. They are probably part of the  
airbag system. Be sure to follow proper  
service procedures, and make sure the person  
performing work for you is qualified to do so.  
The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.  
1-66  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my  
vehicle modified. How can I find out whether  
this will affect my airbag system?  
Restraint System Check  
Checking the Restraint Systems  
A: Changing or moving any parts of the front seats,  
safety belts, the airbag sensing and diagnostic  
module (located under the driver’s seat), or  
the inside rearview mirror can affect the operation  
of the airbag system. If you have questions,  
call Customer Assistance. The phone numbers  
and addresses for Customer Assistance are in  
Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure  
in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction  
Procedure on page 7-2.  
Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light  
and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors  
and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other  
loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see  
anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing  
its job, have it repaired.  
Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a  
crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt  
is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.  
Also look for any opened or broken airbag covers, and  
have them repaired or replaced. (The airbag system  
does not need regular maintenance.)  
1-67  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision  
damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH  
system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced.  
New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt  
or LATCH system was not being used at the time of  
the collision.  
Replacing Restraint System Parts  
After a Crash  
{CAUTION:  
If an airbag inflates, you will need to replace airbag  
system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier  
in this section.  
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.  
If the airbags inflate you will also need to replace the  
driver and front passenger’s safety belt retractor  
assembly. Be sure to do so. Then the new retractor  
assembly will be there to help protect you in a collision.  
After a crash you may need to replace the driver and  
front passenger’s safety belt retractor assemblies, even  
if the airbags have not deployed. The driver and  
front passenger’s safety belt retractor assemblies  
contain the safety belt pretensioners. Have your safety  
belt pretensioners checked if your vehicle has been  
in a collision, or if your airbag readiness light stays on  
after you start your vehicle or while you are driving.  
See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-35.  
If you have had a crash, do you need new belts or  
LATCH system parts?  
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.  
But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if  
worn during a more severe crash, then you need  
new parts.  
If the LATCH system was being used during a more  
severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts.  
1-68  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Section 2  
Features and Controls  
Passlock® ....................................................2-18  
2-1  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
2-3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
This vehicle has one  
The key code number tells your dealer or a qualified  
locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep this number in  
a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to  
have new ones made easily using this number.  
Your selling dealer should also have this number.  
double-sided key for the  
ignition and door lock.  
It will fit with either side up.  
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.  
If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call the  
GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside  
Assistance Program on page 7-5.  
If your vehicle is equipped with the OnStar® system with  
an active subscription and you lock your keys inside  
the vehicle, OnStar® may be able to send a command to  
unlock your vehicle. See OnStar® System on page 2-47  
for more information.  
When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer provides  
the owner with a pair of identical keys and a key  
code number.  
2-4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is  
normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the  
transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer  
to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this:  
Remote Keyless Entry System  
Your keyless entry system operates on a radio  
frequency subject to Federal Communications  
Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada.  
Check the distance. You may be too far from your  
vehicle. You may need to stand closer during  
rainy or snowy weather.  
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.  
Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may  
be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the  
left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and  
try again.  
2. This device must accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause undesired  
operation of the device.  
Check to determine if battery replacement is  
necessary. See “Battery Replacement” under  
page 2-6.  
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.  
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:  
1. This device may not cause interference.  
2. This device must accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause undesired  
operation of the device.  
If you are still having trouble, see your dealer or  
a qualified technician for service.  
Changes or modifications to this system by other than  
an authorized service facility could void authorization to  
use this equipment.  
2-5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Q (Lock): Press lock to lock all the doors. Press lock  
Remote Keyless Entry System  
Operation  
again within three seconds and the horn will chirp.  
L(Panic): Press the horn symbol to make the horn  
sound. The headlamps and taillamps will flash for up  
to 30 seconds. This can be turned off by pressing  
the horn button again, by waiting for 30 seconds, or  
by starting the vehicle.  
If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and  
unlock your doors from about 3 feet (1 m) up to  
30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry  
transmitter supplied with your vehicle.  
K (Unlock): Press unlock  
for the driver’s door to  
unlock automatically, the  
parking lamps to flash  
and the interior lights to  
go on. Press the unlock  
button a second time within  
three seconds to unlock  
all the doors.  
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. Once your dealer has coded  
the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock  
your vehicle. Each vehicle can have a maximum of  
four transmitters matched to it.  
You can program different feedback settings through the  
Driver Information Center (DIC). For more information  
2-6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To replace the battery in the remote keyless entry  
transmitter do the following:  
Battery Replacement  
Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless  
entry transmitter should last about two years.  
You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter will not  
work at the normal range in any location. If you have  
to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works,  
it’s probably time to change the battery.  
The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display a  
KEY FOB # BATTERY LOW message when the  
transmitter battery is low.  
Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not  
to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body  
transferred to these surfaces may damage the  
transmitter.  
1. Insert a thin coin in the slot between the  
covers of the transmitter housing. Gently pry  
the transmitter apart.  
2. Remove and replace the battery with a  
three-volt CR2032 or equivalent battery.  
3. Align the covers and snap them together.  
4. Check the operation of the transmitter.  
2-7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.  
You can use the remote keyless entry system.  
Doors and Locks  
You can use your key to unlock your door from the  
outside.  
Door Locks  
{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. A child  
can be overcome by extreme heat and can  
suffer permanent injuries or even death  
from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle  
whenever you leave it.  
You can lock or unlock the door from the inside  
by sliding the manual lever forward or rearward.  
When the door is unlocked, you can see a red area  
on the lever.  
Outsiders can easily enter through an  
unlocked door when you slow down or  
stop your vehicle. Locking your doors  
can help prevent this from happening.  
The manual lever on each door works only that  
door’s lock.  
2-8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
You can turn the delayed locking feature on or off. If the  
feature is turned off, the doors will lock immediately  
when a power door lock switch or remote keyless entry  
transmitter lock button is pressed.  
Delayed Locking  
This feature delays the locking of the doors and the  
liftgate when using the power lock or the remote keyless  
entry system.  
Programming Delayed Locking  
The first time you attempt to lock the doors with the  
driver’s door open, three chimes will signal that delayed  
locking is being used. This can be performed by  
using either the power lock switch or the remote keyless  
entry transmitter. All doors and the liftgate can be  
reopened for up to five seconds from the time the last  
door is closed.  
To turn the delayed locking feature on or off, do the  
following:  
1. Press and hold the power door lock switch on the  
driver’s door in the lock position.  
2. Press the remote keyless entry transmitter unlock  
button twice.  
Five seconds after the last door is closed, all the  
doors will lock. You can lock the doors immediately by  
using the power door lock switch or by pressing the  
lock button on the optional remote keyless entry  
transmitter a second time.  
If the delayed locking feature was on, it will now be off.  
If the feature was off, it will now be on.  
If the key is inserted in the ignition, this feature will not  
lock the doors. See Lockout Protection on page 2-12.  
2-9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To enter the program mode, do the following:  
Programmable Automatic  
Door Locks  
1. Begin with the ignition off. Then pull the turn  
signal/multifunction lever toward you and hold  
it there while you perform the next step.  
2. Turn the key to RUN and LOCK twice. Then, with the  
key in LOCK, release the turn signal/multifunction  
lever. Once you do this, you will hear the lock switch  
lock and unlock, the horn will chirp twice, and a  
30 second program timer will begin.  
Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic lock/unlock  
feature which enables you to program your vehicle’s  
power door locks. You can program this feature through  
the Driver Information Center (DIC), or by the following  
method. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-56.  
Programmable Locking Feature  
3. You are now ready to program the automatic  
door locks. Select one of the two programming  
options listed previously, and press the lock side  
of the power door lock switch to cycle through  
the lock options. You will have 30 seconds to begin  
programming. If you exceed the 30 second limit,  
the locks will automatically lock and unlock and  
the horn will chirp twice to indicate that you have  
left the program mode. If this occurs, repeat  
the procedure beginning with Step 1 to re-enter  
the programming mode.  
Following are the two locking modes that can be  
programmed:  
Mode 1: All doors lock when the transmission is shifted  
out of PARK (P).  
Mode 2: All doors lock when the vehicle speed is  
greater than 8 mph (13 km/h).  
The automatic door locks were pre-programmed at the  
factory to lock all the doors when the transmission  
is shifted into gear. The following instructions detail how  
to program your door locks differently than the factory  
setting. Choose one of the two programming options  
listed previously before entering the program mode.  
You can exit the program mode any time by turning  
the ignition to RUN. The locks will automatically lock  
and unlock and the horn will chirp twice to indicate that  
you are leaving the program mode. If the lock/unlock  
switches are not pressed while in the programming  
mode, the current auto lock/unlock setting will not  
be modified.  
See your dealer for more information.  
2-10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
2. Turn the key to RUN and LOCK twice. Then, with the  
key in LOCK, release the turn signal/multifunction  
lever. Once you do this, you will hear the lock switch  
lock and unlock, the horn will chirp twice, and a  
30 second program timer will begin.  
Programmable Unlocking Feature  
The following is the list of available programming  
options:  
Mode 1: All doors unlock when the transmission is  
3. You are now ready to program the automatic  
door locks. Select one of the four programming  
options listed above, and press the unlock side of  
the power door lock switch to cycle through the  
unlocking options. You will have 30 seconds  
to begin programming. If you exceed the 30 second  
limit, the locks will automatically lock and unlock  
and the horn will chirp twice to indicate that  
you have left the program mode. If this occurs,  
repeat the procedure beginning with Step 1  
to re-enter the programming mode.  
shifted into PARK (P).  
Mode 2: Driver’s door unlocks when the transmission  
is shifted into PARK (P).  
Mode 3: All doors unlock when the key is removed  
from the ignition.  
Mode 4: No automatic door unlock.  
The automatic door locks were pre-programmed at the  
factory to unlock all doors once the transmission is shifted  
to PARK (P). The following instructions detail how to  
program your door locks differently than the factory  
setting. Choose one of the four programming options  
listed previously before entering the program mode.  
You can exit the program mode any time by turning the  
ignition to RUN. The locks will automatically lock and  
unlock and the horn will chirp twice to indicate that  
you are leaving the program mode. If the lock/unlock  
switches are not pressed while in the programming  
mode, the current auto lock/unlock setting will not be  
modified.  
To enter the program mode you need to do the  
following:  
1. Begin with the ignition off. Then pull the turn  
signal/multifunction lever toward you and hold  
it there while you perform the next step.  
See your dealer for more information.  
2-11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from  
the inside while this feature is in use. If you want to open  
the rear door while the security lock is on, unlock the  
door and open the door from the outside.  
Rear Door Security Locks  
Your vehicle may have this feature. You can lock the  
rear doors so they cannot be opened from the inside  
by passengers. To use one of these locks do the  
following:  
Lockout Protection  
1. Open one of the rear doors. You will find a  
security lock lever located on the inside edge  
of each rear door.  
This feature stops the power door locks from locking  
when the key is in the ignition and a door is open  
to protect you from locking your key in the vehicle.  
2. Move the lever down  
to engage the safety  
lock. Move the lever  
up to disengage  
If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open  
and the key is in the ignition, all the doors will lock  
and then the driver’s door will unlock.  
the safety lock.  
3. Close the door.  
2-12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Liftgate Release  
Liftgate/Liftglass  
To unlock the liftgate, you may use the power door  
locks or the keyless entry system described earlier.  
{CAUTION:  
On some vehicles the liftglass will also unlock when  
the liftgate is unlocked. Press the pushbutton on  
the liftglass to open it.  
It can be dangerous to drive with the liftgate or  
liftglass open because carbon monoxide (CO)  
gas can come into your vehicle. You cannot  
see or smell CO. It can cause  
unconsciousness and even death. If you must  
drive with the liftgate open or if electrical  
wiring or other cable connections must pass  
through the seal between the body and the  
liftgate or liftglass:  
To open the entire liftgate, lift the handle located in  
the center of the liftgate. If you open the liftgate,  
the liftgate module will lock the liftglass after a  
one to two second delay.  
Emergency Release for Opening  
Liftgate  
1. Remove the trim plug, located on the inside of the  
liftgate in the center, to expose the access hole in  
the trim panel.  
Make sure all other windows are shut.  
Turn the fan on your heating or cooling  
system to its highest speed and select the  
control setting that will force outside air  
into your vehicle. See “Climate Control  
System” in the Index.  
If you have air outlets on or under the  
instrument panel, open them all the way.  
See Engine Exhaust on page 2-35.  
2. Use a tool to reach through the access hole in the  
trim panel.  
3. Pry the left release lever up to the unlock position.  
Pry the right release lever up to unlatch the liftgate.  
4. Reinstall the trim plug.  
2-13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
Power Windows  
The controls for the power windows are located  
on the armrest on each of the side doors. The  
switches operate the windows when the ignition is in  
RUN, ACCESSORY or when Retained Accessory  
Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory  
Power (RAP) on page 2-21. The driver’s door has a  
switch for each of the passenger’s windows as well.  
2-14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Your vehicle will have one of the following sets of power  
window switches:  
Press down the top of the switch to lower the window  
and pull up on the switch to raise the window.  
Press the top or bottom of the switch to raise or lower  
the window.  
If you hold the switch down for three to seven seconds  
after the window has been completely lowered or  
raised, the window will not operate for about  
15 seconds.  
2-15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Express-Down Window  
Power Rear Quarter Windows  
Your vehicle may have power rear quarter windows.  
AUTO (Express-down): The driver’s and front  
passenger’s window switches have an express-down  
feature that allows you to lower the window without  
holding the switch down. Press the driver’s or front  
passenger’s window switch labeled AUTO to the  
second position to activate the express-down feature.  
Press the switch to the first position to open the  
window to the desired level. The express-down feature  
can be interrupted at any time by pressing the top  
of the switch or pulling up the front of the switch  
depending on which model you have.  
The switch(es) that operate the windows are located  
on the overhead console. See Overhead Console  
on page 2-53. The switch(es) allow the driver to open  
and close each third row seat window separately.  
The ignition must be in RUN, ACCESSORY, or Retained  
Accessory Power (RAP) must be active, to use the  
power rear quarter windows. See Retained Accessory  
Power (RAP) on page 2-21.  
Sun Visors  
Window Lockout  
To block out glare, you can pull the visor down. You  
can also slide the visor along the rod from side-to-side  
to cover the driver or passenger front window.  
o (Lockout): Your vehicle has a lockout feature to  
prevent passengers from operating the power windows.  
The lockout switch is located in front of the window  
switches on the driver’s door. A light in the lockout  
switch will come on to show that the switch has been  
activated. Press the lockout switch again to return  
to normal operation.  
Visor Vanity Mirror  
Pull the sun visor down to expose the vanity mirror.  
Lighted Visor Vanity Mirror  
Your vehicle may have this feature. Pull the sun visor  
down and lift the mirror cover to turn on the lamps.  
The lamps will turn off when the cover is closed.  
2-16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Here’s how to operate the system:  
1. Open the door.  
Theft-Deterrent Systems  
Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.  
Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent  
features, we know that nothing we put on it can make  
it impossible to steal.  
2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or  
the remote keyless entry transmitter. The security  
light should flash.  
3. Close all doors. The security light should turn off  
after approximately 30 seconds. The alarm is not  
armed until the security light turns off.  
Content Theft-Deterrent  
Your vehicle may be equipped with a content  
theft-deterrent alarm system.  
If a locked door is opened without the key or the remote  
keyless entry transmitter, the alarm will go off. The  
headlamps and parking lamps will flash for two minutes,  
and the horn will sound for 30 seconds, then will turn  
off to save the battery power.  
The security light  
is located on the  
instrument panel  
cluster.  
Remember, the theft-deterrent system won’t activate if  
you lock the doors with a key or use the manual door  
lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock switch  
with the door open, or with the remote keyless entry  
transmitter. You should also remember that you can start  
your vehicle with the correct ignition key if the alarm has  
been set off.  
2-17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Here’s how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident:  
3. Get out of the vehicle, close the door and wait for  
the security light to go out.  
If you don’t want to activate the theft-deterrent  
system, the vehicle should be locked with the door  
key after the doors are closed.  
4. Then reach in through the window, unlock the door  
with the manual door lock and open the door. This  
should set off the alarm.  
Always unlock a door with a key, or use the remote  
keyless entry transmitter. Unlocking a door any  
other way will set off the alarm.  
When the alarm is set the power door unlock switch is  
not operational.  
If the alarm does not sound when it should but the  
headlamps flash, check to see if the horn works.  
The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse,  
see Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-91.  
If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any  
door with the key. You can also turn off the alarm by  
pressing unlock on the remote keyless entry transmitter.  
The alarm won’t stop if you try to unlock a door any  
other way.  
If the alarm does not sound or the headlamps do not  
flash, the vehicle should be serviced by your dealer.  
Testing the Alarm  
Passlock®  
The alarm can be tested by following these steps:  
Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock®  
theft-deterrent system.  
1. From inside the vehicle, lower the driver’s window  
and open the driver’s door.  
Passlock® is a passive theft-deterrent system that  
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, the fuel system is  
disabled and the vehicle will not start.  
2. Activate the system by locking the doors with the  
power door lock switch while the door is open, or  
with the remote keyless entry transmitter.  
2-18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
During normal operation, the security light will turn off  
approximately five seconds after the key is turned  
to RUN.  
Starting and Operating  
Your Vehicle  
If the engine stalls and the security light flashes, wait  
about 10 minutes until the light stops flashing before  
trying to restart the engine. Remember to release  
the key from START as soon as the engine starts.  
New Vehicle Break-In  
Notice: Your vehicle does not need an elaborate  
break-in. But it will perform better in the long run  
if you follow these guidelines:  
If the engine does not start after three tries, the vehicle  
needs service.  
Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less  
for the first 500 miles (805 km).  
If the engine is running and the security light comes  
on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the  
engine off. However, your Passlock® system is not  
working properly and must be serviced by your dealer.  
Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock® at this  
time. You may also want to check the fuse. See Fuses  
and Circuit Breakers on page 5-91. See your dealer  
for service.  
Do not drive at any one speed, fast or slow,  
for the first 500 miles (805 km). Do not make  
full-throttle starts.  
Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles  
(322 km) or so. During this time your new  
brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops  
with new linings can mean premature wear  
and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in  
guideline every time you get new brake  
linings.  
In an emergency, call the GM Roadside Assistance  
Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-5.  
Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See Towing  
a Trailer on page 4-55 for more information.  
2-19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Notice: Using a tool to force the key from the  
ignition switch could cause damage or break the  
key. Use the correct key and turn the key only  
with your hand. Make sure the key is all the way in.  
If it is, turn the steering wheel left and right while  
you turn the key hard. If none of this works,  
then your vehicle needs service.  
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.  
Use the key to turn the ignition switch to four different  
positions.  
C (RUN): This is the position for driving.  
D (START): This position starts the engine.  
A (LOCK): This position locks the ignition and  
transmission. It is a theft-deterrent feature. You will  
only be able to remove the key when the ignition  
is turned to LOCK.  
2-20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Notice: Do not try to shift to PARK (P) if your  
vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage  
the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when  
your vehicle is stopped.  
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)  
Your vehicle is equipped with a Retained Accessory  
Power (RAP) feature which will allow certain features  
of your vehicle to continue to work up to 20 minutes  
after the ignition key is turned to LOCK.  
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the  
ignition key to START. When the engine starts,  
let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as  
your engine gets warm.  
Your radio, power windows, sunroof (option) and  
overhead console will work when the ignition key is in  
RUN or ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from  
RUN to LOCK, these features will continue to work  
for up to 20 minutes or until a door is opened.  
Notice: Holding your key in START for longer  
than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery  
to be drained much sooner. And the excessive  
heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about  
15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining  
your battery or damaging your starter.  
Starting the Engine  
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).  
Your engine will not start in any other position — that  
is a safety feature. To restart when you are already  
moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.  
2. If it does not start within 10 seconds, push the  
accelerator pedal all the way to the floor, while  
you hold the ignition key in START. When  
the engine starts, let go of the key and let up  
on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds  
between each try.  
2-21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
When starting your engine in very cold weather  
(below 0°F or 18°C), do this:  
Adjustable Throttle and Brake Pedal  
If your vehicle has this feature, you can change the  
position of the throttle and brake pedals. This feature is  
designed for shorter drivers, since the pedals cannot  
move farther away from the standard position, but can  
move closer for better pedal reach. This feature can  
be programmed to work with the memory function,  
if equipped, on your vehicle. See Memory Seat on  
page 2-60.  
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn  
the ignition key to START and hold it there up  
to 15 seconds. When the engine starts, let go  
of the key.  
2. If your engine still will not start, or starts but then  
stops, it could be flooded with too much gasoline.  
Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way  
to the floor and holding it there as you hold the  
key in START for about three seconds. When the  
engine starts, let go of the key and accelerator.  
If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again,  
do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal  
down for five or six seconds. This clears the extra  
gasoline from the engine.  
The vehicle must be in PARK (P) for this feature to  
operate.  
The toggle switch used  
to adjust the pedals is  
located on the steering  
column.  
Notice: Your engine is designed to work with the  
electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical  
parts or accessories, you could change the way the  
engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment,  
check with your dealer. If you do not, your engine  
might not perform properly. Any resulting damage  
would not be covered by your vehicle’s warranty.  
Press the switch forward or backward to move the  
pedals closer of farther away from you.  
2-22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Engine Coolant Heater  
{CAUTION:  
Your vehicle may have an engine coolant heater. In  
very cold weather, 0°F (18°C) or colder, the engine  
coolant heater can help. You will 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.  
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet  
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the  
wrong kind of extension cord could overheat  
and cause a fire. You could be seriously  
injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded  
three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord  
will not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong  
extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.  
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater  
1. Turn off the engine.  
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.  
The cord is located on the driver’s side of the  
engine compartment, behind the battery.  
4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and  
store the cord as it was before to keep it away  
from moving engine parts. If you do not, it could  
be damaged.  
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-Volt AC outlet.  
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged  
in? The answer depends on the outside temperature,  
the kind of oil you have, and some other things.  
Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that  
you contact your dealer in the area where you will be  
parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the  
best advice for that particular area.  
2-23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Displacement on Demand (DoD)  
Automatic Transmission Operation  
Your vehicle’s engine may be equipped with  
Displacement on Demand (DoD). This system allows  
the engine to operate on either four or eight cylinders,  
depending on your driving demands.  
The system determines when to switch into and out  
of the four-cylinder mode by first making sure that  
certain enabling criteria are met, such as coolant and  
oil temperatures, and the transmission being in  
either THIRD (3) or FOURTH (4) gear.  
There are several different positions for your gear  
shift lever.  
When greater power demands are required, such as  
accelerating from a stop, passing, or merging onto  
a freeway, the system will maintain eight-cylinder  
operation. When less power is required, such a  
cruising at a constant vehicle speed, the system will  
automatically enable the four-cylinder mode, allowing  
your vehicle to achieve better fuel economy.  
PARK (P): This position locks the rear wheels. It is  
the best position to use when you start the engine  
because your vehicle cannot move easily.  
2-24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
{CAUTION:  
{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.  
If you have four-wheel drive, your vehicle  
will be free to roll — even if your shift lever  
is in PARK (P) — if your transfer case is in  
NEUTRAL. So, be sure the transfer case is in a  
drive gear — not in NEUTRAL. See Four-Wheel  
on page 2-32.  
Do not leave your vehicle when the engine  
is running unless you have to. 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, always  
set your parking brake and move the shift  
lever to PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P)  
on page 2-32. If you are pulling a trailer, see  
Towing a Trailer on page 4-55.  
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting  
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission  
shift lock control system. You have to fully apply the  
regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P)  
when the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift  
out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever,  
press the button on the shift lever and push the shift  
lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake  
application. Move the shift lever into the gear you  
wish. See Shifting Out of Park (P) on page 2-34.  
2-25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.  
Notice: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)  
with the engine running at high speed may damage  
the transmission. The repairs would not be  
covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not  
running at high speed when shifting your vehicle.  
Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle  
is moving forward could damage the transmission.  
The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.  
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is  
stopped.  
DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving.  
If you need more power for passing, and you are:  
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of  
snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission,  
Snow on page 4-42.  
Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push  
the accelerator pedal about halfway down.  
Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push  
the accelerator all the way down.  
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, the engine does  
not connect with the wheels. To restart when you  
are already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.  
You will shift down to the next gear and have  
more power.  
DRIVE (D) can be used when towing a trailer, carrying  
a heavy load, driving on steep hills or for off-road  
driving. You may want to shift the transmission to  
THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if  
the transmission shifts too often.  
{CAUTION:  
Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is  
running at high speed is dangerous. Unless  
your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your  
vehicle could move very rapidly. You could  
lose control and hit people or objects. Do not  
shift into a drive gear while your engine is  
running at high speed.  
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving.  
However, it offers more power and lower fuel economy  
than DRIVE (D).  
2-26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power  
but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). You can use  
SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed  
as you go down steep mountain roads, but then  
you would also want to use the brakes off and on.  
Four-Wheel Drive  
If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can send your  
engine’s driving power to all four wheels for extra  
traction. To get the most satisfaction out of four-wheel  
drive, you must be familiar with its operation. Read  
the part that follows before using four-wheel drive.  
You should use 2HI (two-wheel high) for most normal  
driving conditions.  
You can also use SECOND (2) for starting the vehicle  
from a stop on slippery road surfaces.  
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  
selector lever is put in FIRST (1) while the vehicle  
is moving forward, the transmission will not shift into  
first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.  
Notice: Driving on clean, dry pavement in  
four-wheel drive for an extended period of time may  
cause premature wear on your vehicle’s powertrain.  
Do not drive on clean, dry pavement in four-wheel  
drive for extended periods of time.  
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. When stopping  
on a hill, use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place.  
2-27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
4LO (Four-Wheel Low): This setting also engages  
your front axle and delivers extra torque. It sends  
maximum power to all four wheels. You might choose  
this setting if you are driving off-road in deep sand,  
deep mud, and climbing or descending steep hills.  
Automatic Transfer Case  
If your vehicle is equipped  
with four-wheel drive, the  
transfer case knob is  
located to the right of the  
steering wheel on the  
instrument panel. Use this  
knob to shift into and  
{CAUTION:  
out of four-wheel drive.  
Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL  
can cause your vehicle to roll even if the  
transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone  
else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set  
the parking brake before placing the transfer  
case in NEUTRAL. See Parking Brake on  
page 2-31.  
2HI (Two-Wheel High): This setting is for driving in  
most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not  
engaged in two-wheel drive. It also provides the best  
fuel economy.  
A4WD (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive): This setting is  
ideal for use when road conditions are variable. When  
driving your vehicle in automatic four-wheel drive, the  
front axle is engaged, but the vehicle’s power is sent to  
the rear wheels. When the vehicle senses a loss of  
traction, the system will automatically engage four-wheel  
drive. Driving in this mode results in slightly lower fuel  
economy than 2HI.  
NEUTRAL: Shift the vehicle’s transfer case to  
NEUTRAL only when towing your vehicle. See  
Recreational Vehicle Towing on page 4-50 for more  
information.  
An indicator light in the knob will show you which position  
the transfer case is in. The indicator lights will come on  
briefly when you turn on the ignition and one will stay on.  
4HI (Four-Wheel High): This setting should be used  
when you need extra traction, such as on snowy or icy  
roads or in most off-road situations. This setting also  
engages your front axle to help drive your vehicle.  
2-28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the lights do not come on, you should take your vehicle  
to your dealer for service. An indicator light will flash while  
shifting the transfer case. It will stay on when the shift is  
complete. If for some reason the transfer case cannot  
make a requested shift, it will return to the last chosen  
setting.  
Turn the knob to 4LO. You must wait for the 4LO indicator  
light to stop flashing and stay on before shifting the  
transmission into gear.  
If you turn the knob to 4LO when your vehicle is in  
gear and/or moving, the 4LO indicator light will flash  
for 30 seconds and not complete the shift unless your  
vehicle is moving less than 2 mph (3.2 km/h) and  
the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N). After 30 seconds,  
the transfer case will return to the setting last chosen.  
If the service four-wheel drive light on the instrument  
panel cluster stays on, you should take your vehicle  
to your dealer for service. See Service Four-Wheel Drive  
Warning Light on page 3-47 for further information.  
Shifting Out of 4LO (Four-Wheel Low)  
Shifting Into 4HI (Four-Wheel High)  
or A4WD (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive)  
To shift from 4LO to 4HI, A4WD drive, or 2HI your  
vehicle must be stopped or moving less than  
2 mph (3.2 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N)  
and the engine running. The preferred method for  
shifting out of 4LO is to have your vehicle moving  
1 or 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h). Turn the knob to 4HI,  
A4WD or 2HI. You must wait for the 4HI, A4WD, or  
2HI indicator light to stop flashing and stay off before  
shifting your transmission into gear.  
Turn the knob to 4HI or A4WD. This can be done at any  
speed unless you are shifting out of 4LO. The indicator  
light will flash while shifting. It will remain on when  
the shift is complete.  
Shifting Into 2HI (Two-Wheel High)  
Turn the knob to 2HI. This can be done at any speed  
unless you are shifting out of 4LO.  
If the knob is turned to 4HI, A4WD, or 2HI when your  
vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the 4HI, A4WD, or  
2HI indicator light will flash for 30 seconds. It will  
not complete the shift unless your vehicle is moving  
less than 2 mph (3.2 km/h) with the transmission  
in NEUTRAL (N).  
Shifting Into 4LO (Four-Wheel Low)  
To shift to 4LO, the vehicle’s engine must be running  
and the vehicle must be stopped or moving less than  
2 mph (3.2 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N).  
The preferred method for shifting into 4LO is to have  
your vehicle moving 1 or 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h).  
2-29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Shifting into NEUTRAL  
Shifting Out of NEUTRAL  
Before shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL, first  
make sure the vehicle is parked so that it will not roll.  
To shift the transfer case out of NEUTRAL, do the  
following:  
1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular  
brake pedal.  
1. Set the parking brake.  
2. Start the vehicle.  
2. Turn the ignition to RUN with the engine off.  
3. Put the transmission in NEUTRAL (N).  
3. Put the transmission in NEUTRAL (N).  
4. Shift the transfer case to 2HI.  
4. Turn the transfer case knob to the desired  
position (2 HI, 4HI, or A4WD).  
5. Turn the transfer case knob all of the way past  
four-wheel low and hold it there for a minimum  
of 10 seconds. The neutral indicator light will  
come on.  
5. After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL,  
the indicator light will go out.  
6. Release the parking brake.  
6. With the engine running, shift the transmission  
to REVERSE (R) for one second, then shift  
the transmission to DRIVE (D) for one second,  
to ensure transfer case is in NEUTRAL.  
7. You may start the engine and shift the transmission  
to the desired position.  
7. Turn the engine off, by turning the key to  
ACCESSORY.  
8. Place the transmission shift lever in PARK (P).  
9. Turn the ignition to LOCK.  
2-30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can  
overheat the brake system and cause premature  
wear or damage to brake system parts. Verify that  
the parking brake is fully released and the brake  
warning light is off before driving.  
Parking Brake  
To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal  
down with your foot and pull up on the parking brake lever  
located between the seats. If the ignition is on, the brake  
system warning light on the instrument panel cluster will  
come on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-38.  
If you are towing a trailer and you must park on a hill,  
see Towing a Trailer on page 4-55.  
To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake  
pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can  
press in the button at the end of the lever. Hold the button  
in as you move the parking brake lever all the way down.  
2-31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To shift into PARK (P), do the following:  
Shifting Into Park (P)  
1. Hold the brake pedal down with your foot and set  
the parking brake.  
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by pressing the  
button on the side of the shift lever and pushing the  
lever all the way toward the front of the vehicle.  
{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. With four-wheel drive,  
your vehicle will be free to roll — even if your  
shift lever is in PARK (P) — if your transfer  
case is in NEUTRAL. So, be sure the transfer  
case is in a drive gear — not in NEUTRAL.  
See Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-27. Always  
put the shift lever fully in PARK (P) with the  
parking brake firmly set. If you are pulling a  
trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-55.  
3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK.  
4. Remove the key and take it with you. You know  
your vehicle is in PARK (P) if the key can be  
removed from the ignition.  
2-32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine  
running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your  
parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After  
you have moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold  
the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you  
can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without  
first pressing the button on the console shift lever. If you  
can, it means that the shift lever was not fully locked  
into PARK (P).  
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine  
Running  
{CAUTION:  
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle  
with the engine running. Your vehicle could  
move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in  
PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set.  
Torque Lock  
If you are parking on a hill and you do not 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 2-32.  
If you have four-wheel drive, your vehicle  
will be free to roll — even if your lever is  
in PARK (P) — if your transfer case is in  
NEUTRAL. So be sure the transfer case is in a  
drive gear — not NEUTRAL. See Four-Wheel  
Drive on page 2-27.  
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 unless  
you have to.  
When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out  
of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake.  
If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another  
vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the  
pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission,  
so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).  
2-33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Shifting Out of Park (P)  
Parking Over Things That Burn  
Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock  
control system. You have to fully apply the regular  
brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the  
ignition is in RUN. See Automatic Transmission  
Operation on page 2-24.  
{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.  
2-34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Engine Exhaust  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
{CAUTION:  
If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into  
your vehicle:  
Drive it only with all the windows down  
to blow out any CO; and  
Have your vehicle fixed immediately.  
Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas  
carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see  
or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and  
death.  
You might have exhaust coming in if:  
Your exhaust system sounds strange or  
different.  
Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.  
Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.  
Your vehicle was damaged when driving  
over high points on the road or over road  
debris.  
Repairs were not done correctly.  
Your vehicle or exhaust system had been  
modified improperly.  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
2-35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Running the Engine While Parked  
{CAUTION:  
It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you  
ever have to, here are some things to know.  
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. Do not leave your vehicle when the engine  
is running unless you have to. 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, always  
set your parking brake and move the shift  
lever to PARK (P).  
{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 2-35.  
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.  
Exhaust — with CO — can come in easily.  
NEVER park in a garage with the engine  
running.  
Another closed-in place can be a blizzard.  
See Winter Driving on page 4-38.  
2-36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Mirrors  
{CAUTION:  
Manual Rearview Mirror  
If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, it  
will be free to roll — even if the shift lever  
is in PARK (P) — if the transfer case is in  
NEUTRAL. So be sure the transfer case is in a  
drive gear — not in NEUTRAL. See Four-Wheel  
Drive on page 2-27.  
While sitting in a comfortable driving position, adjust  
the rearview mirror so you can see clearly behind your  
vehicle. Grip the mirror in the center to move it up  
or down and side to side. The day/night control, located  
at the bottom of the mirror, adjusts the mirror to  
reduce headlamp glare from behind during evening or  
dark conditions. Turn the control clockwise for night use;  
return it to the center for daytime use.  
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle will  
not move. See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-32.  
Manual Rearview Mirror with  
OnStar®  
If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer  
on page 4-55.  
The vehicle may have a rearview mirror with the  
OnStar® system.  
Control buttons for the OnStar® system are at the  
bottom of the mirror. See your GM dealer for more  
information on the OnStar® system and how to  
subscribe to OnStar®. Also, see OnStar® System on  
page 2-47 for more information about the services  
OnStar® provides.  
2-37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Mirror Operation  
Compass Display  
While sitting in a comfortable driving position, adjust  
the rearview mirror so you can see clearly behind your  
vehicle. Grip it in the center to move it up or down  
and side to side. The day/night control, located at the  
bottom of the mirror, adjusts the mirror to reduce  
headlamp glare from behind during evening or dark  
conditions. Move the control to the right for night  
conditions. Return it to the center for daytime.  
O(On/Off): Press this button to turn the compass  
on or off. The compass display, can show a maximum  
of two characters. For example, NE is displayed for  
north-east.  
When the ignition and the compass/temperature  
feature are on, character boxes will appear for about  
two seconds. After two seconds, the mirror will display  
the direction the vehicle is facing.  
Manual Rearview Mirror with  
Compass  
Compass Calibration  
When on, the compass automatically calibrates as  
the vehicle is driven. If, after two seconds, the display  
does not show a compass direction, (N for North,  
for example), there may be a strong magnetic field  
interfering with the compass. Such interference may  
be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic  
note pad holder, or a similar magnetic item. If the  
letter C should ever appear in the compass window,  
the compass may need calibration.  
The vehicle may have a manual rearview mirror  
with an eight-point compass display located in the  
upper right.  
Mirror Operation  
While sitting in a comfortable position, adjust the  
rearview mirror so you can see clearly behind your  
vehicle. Grip it in the center and move it up or down  
and side to side. The day/night control, located at  
the bottom of the mirror, adjusts the mirror to reduce  
headlamp glare from behind during evening or dark  
conditions. Push the control for daytime use; pull it  
for night use.  
Press and hold the on/off button for nine seconds to  
activate the compass calibration mode. CAL will  
be displayed in the compass window on the mirror.  
The mirror can be calibrated by driving the vehicle in  
circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display shows  
a direction.  
2-38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Compass Variance  
Compass variance is the difference between earth’s  
magnetic north and true geographic north. The mirror  
is set to zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will  
be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate  
for compass variance if you live outside zone eight.  
Under certain conditions, such as during a long-distance,  
cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for  
compass variance. If not adjusted to account for  
compass variance, the compass could give false  
readings. To adjust for compass variance do the  
following:  
1. Find the current location and variance zone  
number on the following zone map.  
2. Press and hold the on/off button until a zone  
number appears in the display.  
3. Once a zone number appears in the display,  
press the on/off button quickly until the correct  
zone number appears in the display. If C appears  
in the compass window, the compass may need  
calibration. See “Compass Calibration” explained  
previously.  
2-39  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Compass Display  
Manual Rearview Mirror with  
OnStar® and Compass  
O(On/Off): Press this button to turn the compass  
on or off. The compass display, can show a maximum  
of two characters. For example, NE is displayed for  
north-east.  
The vehicle may have a manual rearview mirror with  
OnStar® and an eight-point compass display located  
in the upper right.  
Control buttons for the OnStar® system are at the  
bottom of the mirror. See your GM dealer for more  
information on the OnStar® system. Also, see OnStar®  
System on page 2-47 for more information about the  
services OnStar® provides.  
When the ignition and the compass/temperature  
feature are on, character boxes will appear for about  
two seconds. After two seconds, the mirror will display  
the direction the vehicle is facing.  
Compass Calibration  
Mirror Operation  
When on, the compass automatically calibrates as  
the vehicle is driven. If, after two seconds, the display  
does not show a compass direction, (N for North,  
for example), there may be a strong magnetic field  
interfering with the compass. Such interference may  
be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic  
note pad holder, or a similar magnetic item. If the  
letter C should ever appear in the compass window,  
the compass may need calibration.  
While sitting in a comfortable position, adjust the  
rearview mirror so you can see clearly behind your  
vehicle. Grip it in the center and move it up or down  
and side to side. The day/night control, located at  
the bottom of the mirror, adjusts the mirror to reduce  
headlamp glare from behind during evening or dark  
conditions. Push the control for daytime use; pull it  
for night use.  
Press and hold the on/off button for nine seconds to  
activate the compass calibration mode. CAL will  
be displayed in the compass window on the mirror.  
The mirror can be calibrated by driving the vehicle  
in circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display  
shows a direction.  
2-40  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Compass Variance  
Compass variance is the difference between earth’s  
magnetic north and true geographic north. The mirror is  
set to zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be  
necessary to adjust the compass to compensate  
for compass variance if you live outside zone eight.  
Under certain conditions, such as during a long-distance,  
cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for  
compass variance. If not adjusted to account for  
compass variance, the compass could give false  
readings. To adjust for compass variance do the  
following:  
1. Find the current location and variance zone number  
on the following zone map.  
2. Press and hold the on/off button until a zone  
number appears in the display.  
3. Once a zone number appears in the display,  
press the on/off button quickly until the correct  
zone number appears in the display. If C appears  
in the compass window, the compass may need  
calibration. See “Compass Calibration” explained  
previously.  
2-41  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
When the ignition and the compass/temperature  
feature are on, character boxes will appear for about  
two seconds. After two seconds, the mirror will display  
the direction the vehicle is facing and the outside  
temperature.  
Manual Rearview Mirror with  
Compass and Temperature  
The vehicle may have a manual rearview mirror with an  
eight-point compass and temperature display located  
in the upper right.  
To set the temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius, do the  
following:  
When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar  
material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray  
glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause  
the liquid cleaner to enter the mirror housing.  
1. Press and hold the on/off button until either a  
flashing F or C appears.  
2. Press the button again to change the display to  
the desired unit of measurement. After about  
four seconds of inactivity, the new unit will be  
locked in and the compass/temperature display  
will return.  
Mirror Operation  
While sitting in a comfortable position, adjust the  
rearview mirror so you can see clearly behind your  
vehicle. Grip it in the center and move it up or down  
and side to side. The day/night control, located at  
the bottom of the mirror, adjusts the mirror to reduce  
headlamp glare from behind during evening or dark  
conditions. Push the control for daytime use; pull it for  
night use.  
Compass Calibration  
When on, the compass automatically calibrates as  
the vehicle is driven. If, after two seconds, the display  
does not show a compass direction, (N for North,  
for example), there may be a strong magnetic field  
interfering with the compass. Such interference may  
be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic  
note pad holder, or a similar magnetic item. If the  
letter C should ever appear in the compass window,  
the compass may need calibration.  
Temperature and Compass Display  
O(On/Off): Press this button to turn the compass and  
temperature display on or off. The compass display,  
can show a maximum of two characters. For example,  
NE is displayed for north-east.  
Press and hold the on/off button for nine seconds to  
activate the compass calibration mode. CAL will  
be displayed in the compass window on the mirror.  
2-42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The mirror can be calibrated by driving the vehicle in  
circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display shows  
a direction.  
Compass Variance  
Compass variance is the difference between earth’s  
magnetic north and true geographic north. The mirror  
is set to zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will  
be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate  
for compass variance if you live outside zone eight.  
Under certain conditions, such as during a long-distance,  
cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for  
compass variance. If not adjusted to account for  
compass variance, the compass could give false  
readings. To adjust for compass variance do the  
following:  
1. Find the current location and variance zone number  
on the following zone map.  
2. Press and hold the on/off button until a zone  
number appears in the display.  
3. Once a zone number appears in the display,  
press the on/off button quickly until the correct  
zone number appears in the display. If C appears  
in the compass window, the compass may need  
calibration. See “Compass Calibration” explained  
previously.  
2-43  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Temperature and Compass Display  
Manual Rearview Mirror with  
OnStar®, Compass, and  
Temperature Display  
O(On/Off): Press this button to turn the compass and  
temperature display on or off. The compass display,  
can show a maximum of two characters. For example,  
NE is displayed for north-east.  
The vehicle may have a manual rearview mirror with  
OnStar® and an eight-point compass and temperature  
display located in the upper right.  
Control buttons for the OnStar® system are at the  
bottom of the mirror. See your GM dealer for more  
information about the OnStar® system. Also, see  
OnStar® System on page 2-47 for more information  
about the services OnStar® provides.  
When the ignition and the compass/temperature  
feature are on, character boxes will appear for about  
two seconds. After two seconds, the mirror will display  
the direction the vehicle is facing and the outside  
temperature.  
To set the temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius, do the  
following:  
When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar  
material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray  
glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause  
the liquid cleaner to enter the mirror housing.  
1. Press and hold the on/off button until either a  
flashing F or C appears.  
2. Press the button again to change the display  
to the desired unit of measurement. After about  
four seconds of inactivity, the new unit will be  
locked in and the compass/temperature display  
will return.  
Mirror Operation  
While sitting in a comfortable position, adjust the  
rearview mirror so you can see clearly behind your  
vehicle. Grip it in the center and move it up or down  
and side to side. The day/night control, located at  
the bottom of the mirror, adjusts the mirror to reduce  
headlamp glare from behind during evening or dark  
conditions. Push the control for daytime use; pull it  
for night use.  
Compass Calibration  
When on, the compass automatically calibrates  
as the vehicle is driven. If, after two seconds,  
the display does not show a compass direction,  
N for North, for example, there may be a strong  
magnetic field interfering with the compass.  
2-44  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Such interference may be caused by a magnetic  
antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder, or a similar  
magnetic item. If the letter C should ever appear in  
the compass window, the compass may need  
calibration.  
Press and hold the on/off button for nine seconds to  
activate the compass calibration mode. CAL will  
be displayed in the compass window on the mirror.  
The mirror can be calibrated by driving the vehicle in  
circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display shows  
a direction.  
Compass Variance  
Compass variance is the difference between earth’s  
magnetic north and true geographic north. The mirror  
is set to zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will  
be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate  
for compass variance if you live outside zone eight.  
Under certain conditions, such as during a long-distance,  
cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for  
compass variance. If not adjusted to account for  
compass variance, the compass could give false  
readings. To adjust for compass variance do the  
following:  
2. Press and hold the on/off button until a zone  
number appears in the display.  
3. Once a zone number appears in the display,  
press the on/off button quickly until the correct  
zone number appears in the display. If C appears  
in the compass window, the compass may need  
calibration. See “Compass Calibration” explained  
previously.  
1. Find the current location and variance zone number  
on the following zone map.  
2-45  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Turn the knob counterclockwise or clockwise to adjust  
the driver’s or passenger’s mirror so that you can see  
a little of the side of your vehicle. After adjusting  
the position of the mirrors, turn the knob to the center  
position so that the mirrors cannot move.  
Outside Manual Mirrors  
If the vehicle has the manual outside mirrors, adjust  
each outside mirror so that a little of the vehicle and the  
area behind it can be seen while sitting in a comfortable,  
driving position.  
If the travel position in any direction of the mirror is  
reached, it will enter a ratcheting mode. This action is  
harmless. It is a warning that the mirror can go no  
further. To stop this action, back the mirror up by  
moving the knob in the opposite direction.  
Both mirrors can be manually folded inward by pulling  
them towards the vehicle. Push the mirrors away  
from the vehicle, to the normal position, before driving.  
Outside Power Mirrors  
Outside Curb View Assist Mirror  
The vehicle may have this feature.  
If the vehicle has this feature, the passenger’s outside  
mirror will adjust to a preset tilt position while the vehicle  
is in REVERSE (R) gear. Curb view assist may be  
useful when you are parallel parking. The mirror  
will return to normal position when the vehicle is shifted  
out of REVERSE (R) gear. Automatic mirror movement  
in either direction will follow a short delay.  
The control is located  
on the driver’s door.  
You may be able to turn this feature on or off through  
the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DIC Vehicle  
Customization on page 3-56.  
2-46  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
OnStar® System  
Outside Convex Mirror  
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.  
{CAUTION:  
A complete OnStar® user’s guide and the terms and  
conditions of the OnStar® Subscription Service  
Agreement are included in the vehicle’s glove box  
literature. For more information, visit www.onstar.com  
or www.onstarcanada.com. Contact OnStar® at  
1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827), or press the  
OnStar® button to speak to an OnStar® advisor  
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  
A convex mirror can make things (like other  
vehicles) look farther away than they really are.  
If you cut too sharply into the right or left lane,  
you could hit a vehicle. Check your inside  
mirror or glance over your shoulder before  
changing lanes.  
The passenger’s outside mirror is convex. A convex  
mirror’s surface is curved so more can be seen from the  
driver’s seat.  
Terms and conditions of the Subscription Service  
Agreement can be found at www.onstar.com or  
www.onstarcanada.com.  
OnStar® Services  
Outside Heated Mirrors  
For new vehicles equipped with OnStar®, the Safe  
and Sound Plan is included for the first year. You can  
extend this plan beyond the first year, or upgrade to the  
Directions and Connections Plan to meet your needs.  
For more information, press the OnStar® button to speak  
with an advisor.  
If the vehicle has this feature, when the rear window  
defogger is turned on, the outside driver’s and  
passenger’s rearview mirrors also heat to help clear  
them of ice, snow, and condensation. See Dual Climate  
Climate Control System on page 3-23 for more  
information.  
2-47  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
OnStar® Personal Calling  
As an OnStar® subscriber, the Personal Calling  
Safe and Sound Plan  
Advanced Automatic Collision Notification  
Automatic Notification of Airbag Deployment  
Emergency Services  
capability is an available hands-free wireless phone  
that is integrated into the vehicle. Calls can be placed  
nationwide using simple voice commands with no  
additional contracts and no additional roaming charges.  
To find out more about OnStar® Personal Calling,  
refer to the OnStar® user’s guide in the vehicle’s glove  
box, visit www.onstar.com or www.onstarcanada.com;  
or speak to an OnStar® advisor by pressing the OnStar®  
button or calling 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827).  
Roadside Assistance  
Stolen Vehicle Tracking  
AccidentAssist  
Remote Door Unlock/Vehicle Alert  
Remote Diagnostics  
OnStar® Virtual Advisor  
Information and Convenience Services  
Online Concierge  
Virtual Advisor is a feature of OnStar® Personal Calling  
that uses minutes to access up-to-date weather and  
traffic reports for your area, news and sports updates,  
stock quotes, entertainment, and more. Customize  
your information profile at www.myonstar.com. See the  
OnStar® user’s guide for more information.  
Directions and Connections Plan  
All Safe and Sound Plan Services  
Driving Directions  
RideAssist  
Information and Convenience Services  
2-48  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
OnStar® Steering Wheel Controls  
HomeLink® Wireless Control  
System  
A steering wheel control can be used to interact with the  
OnStar® personal calling feature.  
Press the control with  
this symbol on the  
steering wheel to place  
a phone call.  
When calling into voice mail systems, or to dial directory  
numbers, press the control, say the number(s), then  
say “dial.”  
See the OnStar® user’s guide for more information.  
HomeLink®, a combined universal transmitter and  
receiver, provides a way to replace up to three handheld  
transmitters used to activate devices such as gate  
operators, garage door openers, entry door locks,  
security systems and home lighting. Additional  
HomeLink® information can be found on the Internet at  
www.homelink.com or by calling 1-800-355-3515.  
If your vehicle is equipped with the HomeLink®  
Transmitter, it complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.  
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:  
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and  
(2) this device must accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause undesired  
operation.  
2-49  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.  
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.  
Keep the original transmitter for use in other vehicles as  
well as for future HomeLink® programming. It is also  
recommended that upon the sale of the vehicle,  
the programmed HomeLink® buttons should be erased  
for security purposes. Refer to “Erasing HomeLink®  
Buttons” or, for assistance, contact HomeLink® on the  
Internet at: www.homelink.com or by calling  
1-800-355-3515.  
Changes and modifications to this system by other than  
an authorized service facility could void authorization  
to use this equipment.  
Be sure that people and objects are clear of the garage  
door or gate operator you are programming. When  
programming a garage door, it is advised to park outside  
of the garage.  
HomeLink® Wireless Control  
System Operation  
Do not use the HomeLink® Transmitter with any garage  
door opener that does not have the “stop and reverse”  
feature. This includes any garage door opener model  
manufactured before April 1, 1982. If you have a newer  
garage door opener with rolling codes, please be  
sure to follow Steps 6 through 8 to complete the  
programming of your HomeLink® Transmitter.  
It is recommended that a new battery be installed in  
your hand-held transmitter for quicker and more  
accurate transmission of the radio frequency.  
Programming HomeLink®  
Your vehicle’s engine should be turned off while  
programming the transmitter. Follow these steps to  
program up to three channels:  
Read the instructions completely before attempting to  
program the HomeLink® Transmitter. Because of  
the steps involved, it may be helpful to have another  
person available to assist you in programming the  
transmitter.  
1. Press and hold down the two outside buttons,  
releasing only when the indicator light begins to  
flash, after 20 seconds. Do not hold down the  
buttons for longer than 30 seconds and do not  
repeat this step to program a second and/or third  
transmitter to the remaining two HomeLink® buttons.  
2-50  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
2. Position the end of your hand-held transmitter  
about 1 to 3 inches (3 to 8 cm) away from the  
HomeLink® buttons while keeping the indicator  
light in view.  
If the indicator light blinks rapidly for two seconds  
and then turns to a constant light, continue with  
Steps 6 through 8 following to complete the  
programming of a rolling-code equipped device  
(most commonly, a garage door opener).  
3. Simultaneously press and hold both the desired  
button on HomeLink® and the hand-held transmitter  
button. Do not release the buttons until Step 4  
has been completed.  
6. Locate in the garage, the garage door opener  
receiver (motor-head unit). Locate the “Learn”  
or “Smart” button. This can usually be found where  
the hanging antenna wire is attached to the  
motor-head unit.  
Some entry gates and garage door openers may  
require you to substitute Step 3 with the procedure  
noted in “Gate Operator and Canadian  
7. Firmly press and release the “Learn” or “Smart”  
button. The name and color of the button may  
vary by manufacturer.  
Programming” later in this section.  
4. The indicator light will flash slowly at first and then  
rapidly after HomeLink® successfully receives the  
frequency signal from the hand-held transmitter.  
Release both buttons.  
5. Press and hold the newly-trained HomeLink® button  
and observe the indicator light.  
You will have 30 seconds to start Step 8.  
8. Return to the vehicle. Firmly press and hold the  
programmed HomeLink® button for two seconds,  
then release. Repeat the press/hold/release  
sequence a second time, and depending on the  
brand of the garage door opener (or other rolling  
code device), repeat this sequence a third time  
to complete the programming.  
HomeLink® should now activate your rolling-code  
equipped device.  
To program the remaining two HomeLink® buttons,  
begin with Step 2 of “Programming HomeLink®.”  
You do not want to repeat Step 1, as this will erase  
all previous programming.  
If the indicator light stays on constantly,  
programming is complete and your device should  
activate when the HomeLink® button is pressed and  
released.  
To program the remaining two HomeLink® buttons,  
begin with Step 2 under “Programming HomeLink®.”  
Do not repeat Step 1 as this will erase all of the  
programmed channels.  
2-51  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Gate Operator and Canadian  
Programming  
Using HomeLink®  
Press and hold the appropriate HomeLink® button for  
at least half of a second. The indicator light will come  
on while the signal is being transmitted.  
Canadian radio-frequency laws require transmitter  
signals to “time out” or quit after several seconds of  
transmission. This may not be long enough for  
HomeLink® to pick up the signal during programming.  
Similarly, some U.S. gate operators are manufactured  
to “time out” in the same manner.  
Erasing HomeLink® Buttons  
To erase programming from the three buttons do the  
following:  
If you live in Canada, or you are having difficulty  
programming a gate operator by using the  
“Programming HomeLink®” procedures (regardless of  
where you live), replace Step 3 under “Programming  
HomeLink®” with the following:  
1. Press and hold down the two outside buttons until  
the indicator light begins to flash, after 20 seconds.  
Do not hold the two outside buttons for longer  
than 30 seconds.  
2. Release both buttons.  
Continue to press and hold the HomeLink® button while  
you press and release every two seconds (cycle)  
your hand-held transmitter until the frequency signal  
has been successfully accepted by HomeLink®.  
The indicator light will flash slowly at first and then  
rapidly. Proceed with Step 4 under “Programming  
HomeLink®” to complete.  
HomeLink® is now in the train (learning) mode and can  
be programmed at any time beginning with Step 2  
under “Programming HomeLink®” shown earlier in this  
section.  
Individual buttons cannot be erased, but they can  
be reprogrammed. See “Reprogramming a Single  
HomeLink® Button” following this section.  
2-52  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Reprogramming a Single HomeLink®  
Button  
Storage Areas  
To program a device to HomeLink® using a HomeLink®  
button previously trained, follow these steps:  
1. Press and hold the desired HomeLink® button.  
Do not release the button.  
Glove Box  
Open the glove box by pulling the side of the handle  
towards the driver side.  
2. The indicator light will begin to flash after  
20 seconds. While still holding the HomeLink®  
button, proceed with Step 2 under “Programming  
HomeLink®” shown earlier in this section.  
Overhead Console  
Your vehicle may have this feature. The overhead  
console may include a reading lamps, HomeLink®  
transmitter and a sunroof switch. See Sunroof on  
page 2-60 and HomeLink® Wireless Control System  
on page 2-49 for more information.  
Resetting Defaults  
To reset HomeLink® to default settings do the following:  
If your vehicle has a third row seat, and has a power  
operated rear quarter glass, the switches for operating  
the rear quarter glass are also located in the overhead  
console. These switches allow the driver to open  
and close each third row seat window separately.  
1. Hold down the two outside buttons for about  
20 seconds until the indicator light begins to flash.  
2. Continue to hold both buttons until the HomeLink®  
indicator light turns off.  
3. Release both buttons.  
) (Driver’s Quarter Glass): Press button downward  
to open or upward to close the drivers side (left)  
quarter glass for the third row seat.  
For questions or comments, contact HomeLink®  
at 1-800-355-3515, or on the Internet at  
www.homelink.com.  
( (Passenger’s Quarter Glass): Press button  
downward to open or upward to close the passengers  
side (right) quarter glass for the third row seat.  
2-53  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Center Console Storage Area  
Luggage Carrier  
If your vehicle has this console compartment, squeeze  
the front lever while lifting the top to open it.  
{CAUTION:  
Your vehicle’s console will be equipped with cupholders  
located on the front and rear of the storage  
compartment.  
If you try to carry something on top of your  
vehicle that is longer or wider than the luggage  
carrier — like paneling, plywood, a mattress  
and so forth — the wind can catch it as you  
drive along. This can cause you to lose  
control. What you are carrying could be  
violently torn off, and this could cause you or  
other drivers to have a collision, and of course  
damage your vehicle. You may be able to carry  
something like this inside. But, never carry  
something longer or wider than the luggage  
carrier on top of your vehicle.  
The console may also contain one or more of the  
following components:  
Rear Seat Audio Controls  
Rear Seat Accessory Power Outlets  
Rear Climate Control  
If your vehicle has the center armrest compartment, lift  
the cover by pulling up on the latch handle located  
underneath the front edge of the armrest. The storage  
area includes slots for cassettes or compact discs.  
Assist Handles  
A handle above each door can be used when getting  
out of your vehicle.  
2-54  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
A luggage carrier allows you to load things on top of  
your vehicle. The luggage carrier has side rails attached  
to the roof, sliding crossrails (if equipped) and places  
to use for tying things down. These let you load  
some other things on top of your vehicle, as long as  
they are not wider or longer than the luggage carrier.  
Don’t exceed the maximum vehicle capacity when  
loading your vehicle. For more information on vehicle  
capacity and loading, see Loading Your Vehicle on  
page 4-43.  
To prevent damage or loss of cargo as you’re driving,  
check now and then to make sure the luggage carrier  
is locked and cargo is still securely fastened.  
To slide the crossrails to where you want them, pull  
up on the lever on each side of the crossrail. This will  
release the crossrail and allow you to slide it. When  
the crossrail is where you want it, press down on  
the levers to lock it into place.  
When the luggage carrier is not in use, place the  
crossrails at the following positions for wind noise  
reduction. Place one crossrail at the rear most point of  
the vehicle and the other crossrail above the opening  
of the rear door.  
Notice: Loading cargo on the luggage carrier  
that weighs more than 220 lbs (100 kg) or hangs  
over the rear or sides of the vehicle may damage  
your vehicle. Load cargo so that it rests on the  
slats as far forward as possible and against the  
side rails, making sure to fasten it securely.  
2-55  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Rear Compartment Storage  
Panel/Cover  
{CAUTION:  
If you were to carry things on the adjustable  
panel when it is in the upper (cargo cover)  
position, during a sudden vehicle movement or  
a crash, those things could be thrown around  
in the vehicle. You or others could be injured.  
When it is in the upper position, always secure  
any cargo on the floor beneath the  
panel/cover.  
Upper Position  
Your vehicle may have this feature. This upper panel  
position can be used as a cargo shade. Insert the  
front corners of the panel into the top guides and slide  
the panel forward. Press down on the back of the  
panel to lock it in place.  
2-56  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Lower Position  
Vertical Position  
The panel can be stored in the lower position with  
either side up. Insert the front corners of the panel into  
the lower guides and slide the panel forward. Press  
down on the back of the panel to lock it in place.  
Plastic grocery bags can be attached to the hooks  
on the panel. Insert the front corners of the panel into  
the vertical guides behind the seatbacks and slide  
the panel down.  
Notice: Loading objects that weigh over  
200 lbs (90 kg) onto the panel may cause damage.  
Repairs would not be covered by your warranty.  
Do not load heavy objects on the panel.  
Notice: If you use the panel as a barrier for large  
objects in the cargo area while the seatbacks  
are folded down, the panel may be damaged.  
Do not use the panel as a barrier between large  
objects in the rear cargo area and the seating area.  
2-57  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Rear Floor Storage Lid  
Convenience Net  
Your vehicle may have this feature. A convenience  
net in the rear of your vehicle helps keep small items in  
place during sharp turns or quick stops and starts.  
The net is not designed to retain these items during  
off-road use. The net is not for larger, heavier items.  
{CAUTION:  
If any removable convenience item is not  
secured properly, it can move around in a  
collision or sudden stop. People in the vehicle  
could be injured. Be sure to secure any such  
item properly.  
To use the convenience net, do the following:  
1. Attach the upper loops to the retainers on both  
sides of the liftgate opening. The label should be  
in the upper passenger’s side corner, visible  
from the rear of the vehicle.  
2. Attach the lower hooks to the rear cargo tie downs  
on the floor.  
Your vehicle has a rear cargo area with a removable  
storage lid.  
To remove the rear floor storage lid, do the following:  
1. Press the latch release and lift up the latch handle.  
2. Raise the lid slightly to unhook it.  
Cargo Cover  
If your vehicle has a cargo cover, you can use it to  
cover items in the cargo area of your vehicle.  
To install the cargo cover, do the following:  
1. Align the endcap with the pocket in the trim panel  
located behind the rear seat.  
2. Squeeze the opposite endcap, align it with the  
pocket located on the opposite side of the trim  
panel and release.  
3. Pull the lid toward you to release it from the forward  
mounting tabs.  
To reinstall the rear floor storage lid, reverse the  
previous steps. Make sure the lid is secure by applying  
slight pressure to the latch until you hear it click.  
3. Grasp the handle and unroll the cover. Latch the  
posts into the sockets on the inside of the vehicle  
to secure it.  
2-58  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To remove the cargo cover, do the following:  
Cargo Tie Downs  
1. Release the cover from the latch posts and carefully  
roll it back up.  
There may be cargo tie  
downs in the rear of your  
vehicle that allow you  
to strap cargo in and keep  
it from moving.  
2. Squeeze one endcap and remove it from the  
pocket in the trim panel.  
3. Remove the cargo cover from the other endcap so  
that you can remove the shade from the vehicle.  
{CAUTION:  
An improperly stored cargo cover could be  
thrown about the vehicle during a collision or  
sudden maneuver. You or others could be  
injured. If you remove the cover, always store  
it in the proper storage location. When you put  
it back, always be sure that it is securely  
reattached.  
2-59  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Sunroof  
Vehicle Personalization  
The vehicle may be equipped with a power sliding  
sunroof. To open or close the sunroof, the ignition  
must be on or accessory, or Retained Accessory Power  
(RAP) must be active. See Retained Accessory  
Power (RAP) on page 2-21.  
Memory Seat  
If your vehicle has this  
feature, the controls  
for the memory function  
are located on the  
driver’s door.  
Press and release the  
back of the control in the  
overhead console to  
open the sunroof. Press  
the front of the control  
to close the sunroof.  
These buttons are used to program and recall memory  
settings for the driver’s seating position, both outside  
mirror positions and the adjustable pedals, if equipped.  
The settings for these features can be saved for up  
to two drivers.  
Once the sunroof is closed, press the forward side of  
the control to open the sunroof to the vent position.  
To store the memory settings, do the following:  
The sunroof has a sunshade which can be pulled  
forward to block sun rays. If it is in the closed position,  
it will open when the sunroof is opened.  
1. Adjust the driver’s seat, including the seatback  
recliner and lumbar, both of the outside mirrors  
and the adjustable pedals, if equipped, to the  
desired position.  
2-60  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
2. Press and hold the 1 or 2 button of the memory  
control for three seconds. A double chime will  
sound to let you know that the position has been  
stored.  
To store the easy exit seat position, do the following:  
1. Press and release the 1 or 2 button of the memory  
control for three seconds. The seat will move to  
the stored memory position.  
To repeat the procedure for a second driver, follow  
the preceding steps, but press the other numbered  
memory control button.  
2. Adjust the seat to the desired exit position.  
3. Press and hold the easy exit seat button for  
three seconds. A double chime will sound to  
let you know that the position has been stored  
for the selected button 1 or 2.  
To recall the memory settings, press and release  
button 1 or 2 while the vehicle is in PARK (P). A single  
chime will sound and the memory position will be  
recalled.  
To repeat the procedure for a second driver, follow  
the preceding steps, but press the other numbered  
memory control button.  
To stop recall movement of the memory seat feature at  
any time, press one of the memory buttons or power  
seat controls.  
To recall the easy exit seat position, do one of the  
following:  
Easy Exit Seat  
Press the easy exit seat button on the memory  
control while the vehicle is in PARK (P). The  
seat will move to the stored exit position.  
The control for the easy exit seat function is located on  
the driver’s door below the memory buttons 1 and 2.  
The easy exit seat button is used to program and recall  
the desired driver’s seat position when exiting/entering  
the vehicle. The mirrors, power lumbar, recline and  
adjustable pedals, if equipped, positions will not  
be stored or recalled when using the easy exit seat  
function. The seat position can be saved for up to  
two drivers.  
Or, if the easy exit seat feature is activated in the  
Driver Information Center (DIC), removing the key  
from the ignition will move the seat to the exit  
position. See “Easy Exit Seat” under DIC Vehicle  
Customization on page 3-56 for more information  
on activating this feature in the DIC.  
If an easy exit seat position has not been stored, the  
default position is all the way rearward.  
2-61  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
NOTES  
2-62  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Section 3  
Instrument Panel  
3-1  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Section 3  
Instrument Panel  
3-2  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
NOTES  
3-3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Instrument Panel Overview  
3-4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The main components of your instrument panel are the following:  
A. Exterior Lamp Control. See Headlamps on  
page 3-14. Dome Lamp Override Button. See Dome  
Lamp Override on page 3-18. Instrument Panel  
Brightness Control. See Instrument Panel Brightness  
on page 3-17. Fog Lamp Button (If Equipped).  
See Fog Lamps on page 3-17.  
K. Driver Information Center (DIC) Steering Wheel  
on page 3-49.  
L. Transfer Case Controls. See “Automatic Transfer  
Case” under Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-27.  
Traction Assist Button. See Traction Assist  
System (TAS) on page 4-8.  
B. Air Outlets. See Outlet Adjustment on page 3-27.  
C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. See Turn  
D. OnStar® and Audio Steering Wheel Controls. See  
M. Shift Lever. See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-32.  
N. Lighter. See Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter on  
page 3-20.  
O. Accessory Power Outlets. See Accessory Power  
Outlets on page 3-19.  
E. Instrument Panel Cluster. See Instrument Panel  
Cluster on page 3-32.  
P. Parking Brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-31.  
F. Audio Steering Wheel Controls. See Audio Steering  
Wheel Controls on page 3-126.  
Q. Rear Window Washer/Wiper. See “Rear Window  
Washer/Wiper” under Windshield Washer on  
page 3-10.  
G. Ignition Switch. See Ignition Positions on page 2-20.  
H. Audio System. See Audio System(s) on page 3-62.  
R. Rear Window Defogger. See “Rear Window  
Defogger” under Dual Climate Control System on  
System on page 3-23.  
I. Climate Controls. See Dual Climate Control  
System on page 3-20.  
J. Hood Release. See Hood Release on page 5-11.  
S. Glove Box. See Glove Box on page 2-53.  
3-5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Hazard Warning Flashers  
Horn  
To sound the horn, press the horn symbols on the  
steering wheel pad.  
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.  
Tilt Wheel  
The hazard warning  
flasher button is located  
on top of the steering  
column.  
You should adjust the  
steering wheel before you  
drive. The tilt lever is  
located to the left of the  
steering column, under the  
turn signal lever.  
Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what  
position your key is in, and even if the key is not in  
the ignition.  
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.  
You can raise it to the highest level to give your legs  
more room when you enter and exit the vehicle.  
When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn  
signals will not work.  
To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull  
the lever toward you. Move the steering wheel to  
a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the  
wheel in place.  
Other Warning Devices  
If you carry reflective triangles, you can set them up  
at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind  
your vehicle.  
3-6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
The lever on the left side of the steering column  
includes the following:  
G Turn and Lane Change Signals  
2 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer  
Flash-to-Pass Feature  
To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever  
until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you  
complete your lane change. The lever will return by  
itself when you release it. The bottom of the outside  
rearview mirrors may also be equipped with lane change  
indicators.  
N Windshield Wipers  
J Windshield Washer  
I Cruise Control (If Equipped)  
As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows  
flash more quickly than normal, a signal bulb may  
be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn  
signal.  
3-7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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 the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers  
on page 5-91 and check for burned-out bulbs.  
When the high beams are  
on, this indicator light on  
the instrument panel  
cluster will also be on.  
If you have a trailer towing option with added wiring  
for the trailer lamps, a different turn signal flasher  
is used. With this flasher installed, the signal indicator  
will flash even if a turn signal bulb is burned out. Check  
the front and rear turn signal lamps regularly to make  
sure they are working.  
Flash-to-Pass  
This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to  
signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass.  
It works even if your headlamps are in the automatic  
position.  
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.  
To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, then  
release it.  
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer  
If your headlamps are in the automatic position or on  
low beam, your high-beam headlamps will turn on.  
They’ll stay on as long as you hold the lever toward you.  
The high-beam indicator on the instrument panel  
cluster will come on. Release the lever to return to  
normal operation.  
To change the headlamps from low to high beam,  
push the lever toward the instrument panel. To return  
to low-beam headlamps, pull the multifunction lever  
toward you. Then release it.  
3-8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Windshield Wipers  
Rainsense™ Wipers  
Your vehicle may be equipped with Rainsense™  
windshield wipers. When active, these wipers are able  
to detect moisture on the windshield and automatically  
turn on the wipers.  
8 (Mist): 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. If you want  
more wipes, hold the band on mist longer.  
The moisture sensor is located next to the inside  
rearview mirror and is mounted on the windshield.  
9 (Off): To stop the wipers, move the band to off.  
To turn on the Rainsense™ feature, the wipers must be  
set to one of the five delay settings on the multifunction  
lever. Each of the five settings adjusts the sensitivity  
of the rainsensor. For more wipes, select the higher  
settings; for fewer wipes, select the lower settings  
located closer to off on the multifunction lever.  
N (Windshield Wipers): Turn the band to control  
the windshield wipers.  
You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay  
between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain  
or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The  
closer to the top of the lever, the shorter the delay.  
The rainsensor will automatically control the frequency  
of the wipes from off to high speed according to the  
weather conditions. The wipers can be left in a  
rainsense mode even when it is not raining.  
For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from  
you to the first solid band past the delay settings. For  
high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to the second  
solid band past the delay settings. To stop the wipers,  
move the band to off.  
Notice: If you do not turn off the windshield  
wipers when driving through an automatic car  
wash, you could damage the wipers. Always turn  
off the windshield wipers before entering an  
automatic car wash.  
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.  
3-9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Rear Window Washer/Wiper  
Windshield Washer  
This control is located  
L(Windshield Washer): To spray washer fluid on  
the windshield, press the windshield washer paddle.  
The wipers will clear the window and then either stop  
or return to your preset speed.  
to the left of the  
steering wheel on the  
instrument panel.  
{CAUTION:  
In freezing weather, do not use your washer  
until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the  
washer fluid can form ice on the windshield,  
blocking your vision.  
To turn the rear wiper on, turn the control to either 1, 2,  
or 3. For delayed wiping, turn the control to 1 or 2.  
For steady wiping, turn the control to 3. To turn the  
wiper off, turn the control to 0.  
To wash the rear window, press the washer symbol  
located in the center of the control.  
The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle as  
the windshield washer. However, the rear window  
washer will run out of fluid before the windshield washer.  
If you can wash your windshield but not your rear  
window, check the fluid level.  
3-10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Headlamp Washer  
Cruise Control  
Your vehicle may be  
equipped with a headlamp  
washer system. The  
button to operate this  
feature is located on the  
instrument panel and  
functions separately  
from your other washer  
systems.  
If your vehicle has  
cruise control, the  
controls are located  
on the end of the turn  
signal/multifunction lever.  
To wash your headlamps, press the headlamp washer  
button briefly and release to activate the system.  
R(On): Move the switch to this position to turn the  
cruise control system on.  
S(Resume/Accelerate): Move the switch to this  
position to resume a set speed or to accelerate.  
T(Set): Press this button, located at the end of the  
lever, to set a speed.  
9(Off): This position turns the cruise control system  
off and cancels memory of a set speed.  
3-11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
With 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).  
{CAUTION:  
If you leave your cruise control on when you  
are not using cruise, you might hit a button  
and go into cruise when you do not want to.  
You could be startled and even lose control.  
Keep the cruise control switch off until you  
want to use cruise control.  
If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will shut off.  
{CAUTION:  
Cruise control can be dangerous where you  
cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do  
not use your cruise control on winding roads  
or in heavy traffic.  
Setting Cruise Control  
1. Move the cruise control switch to on.  
2. Get up to the speed you want.  
Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery  
roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire  
traction can cause needless wheel spinning,  
and you could lose control. Do not use cruise  
control on slippery roads.  
3. Press the set button at the end of the lever  
and release it.  
4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.  
The accelerator pedal will not go down.  
3-12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The cruise light on the  
instrument panel cluster  
will come on when  
the cruise control is  
engaged.  
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise  
Control  
There are two ways to go to a higher speed:  
Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher  
speed. Press the button at the end of the lever,  
then release the button and the accelerator pedal.  
You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.  
Move the cruise switch from on to  
Resuming a Set Speed  
resume/accelerate. Hold it there until you get up to  
the speed you want, and then release the switch.  
To increase your speed in very small amounts,  
move the switch briefly to resume/accelerate.  
Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about  
1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.  
Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed  
and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts  
off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it.  
Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you  
can move the cruise control switch briefly from on to  
resume/accelerate.  
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise  
Control  
Press in the set button at the end of the lever until  
you reach the lower speed you want, then release it.  
Each time you do this, you’ll go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h)  
slower.  
You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay  
there.  
If you hold the switch at resume/accelerate, the vehicle  
will keep going faster until you release the switch or  
apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don’t  
hold the switch at resume/accelerate.  
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.  
3-13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Using Cruise Control on Hills  
Headlamps  
How well your cruise control will work on hills depends  
upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills.  
When going up steep hills, you may want to step on the  
accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going  
downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to  
keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake  
takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to  
be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on  
steep hills.  
Your exterior lamps  
knob is located on your  
instrument panel to the  
left of the steering wheel.  
Ending Cruise Control  
There are three ways to turn off the cruise control:  
Step lightly on the brake pedal.  
c(Off): Turn the knob to this symbol and release it  
to turn off the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) and  
the automatic headlamps. An indicator will illuminate  
when the position is selected. This position is not  
available for vehicles first sold in Canada.  
Move the cruise switch to off, or  
Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N).  
Erasing Speed Memory  
When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition,  
your cruise control set speed memory is erased.  
i (Automatic DRL/AHS): Turning the knob to  
this symbol puts the system into automatic headlamp  
mode. An indicator will illuminate when the position  
is selected.  
3-14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
; (Parking Lamps): Turn the knob to this symbol to  
manually turn on the following:  
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)  
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.  
Parking Lamps  
Sidemarker Lamps  
Taillamps  
License Plate Lamps  
Instrument Panel Lights  
The DRL system will make your headlamps come on  
at reduced brightness when the following conditions  
are met:  
2(Headlamps): Turn the knob to this symbol to turn  
on all the lamps listed as well as the headlamps.  
The ignition is on.  
Headlamps on Reminder  
The exterior lamps knob is in automatic  
headlamp mode.  
A reminder tone will sound when your headlamps  
or parking lamps are manually turned on, the  
driver’s door is open and your ignition is in LOCK or  
ACCESSORY. To turn the tone off, turn the knob all  
the way counterclockwise. In the automatic mode,  
the headlamps turn off once the ignition key is in LOCK.  
The light sensor detects daytime light.  
The transmission is not in PARK (P).  
When the DRL are on, only your headlamps will be on.  
The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be  
on. The instrument panel won’t be lit up either.  
When it begins to get dark, the headlamps will  
automatically switch from DRL to the regular headlamps.  
3-15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If you start your vehicle in a dark garage, the automatic  
headlamp system will come on immediately. Once  
you leave the garage, it will take about one minute for  
the automatic headlamp system to change to DRL if it is  
light outside. During that delay, your instrument panel  
cluster may not be as bright as usual. Make sure  
your instrument panel brightness control is in the full  
bright position.  
Automatic Headlamp System  
When it is dark enough outside, your Automatic  
Headlamp System will turn on your headlamps at the  
normal brightness along with other lamps such as  
the taillamps, sidemarker, parking lamps and the  
instrument panel lights. The radio lights will also be on.  
Your vehicle is equipped with a light sensor on the  
top of the instrument panel. Be sure it is not covered  
or the system will be on whenever the ignition is on.  
To idle your vehicle with the automatic headlamp  
system off, set the parking brake while the ignition is  
off. Then start your vehicle. The automatic headlamp  
system will stay off until you release the parking brake,  
shift out of park or turn the exterior lamp control to  
the off position as described in “Exterior Lamps” listed  
previously.  
The system may also turn on your lights when driving  
through a parking garage, heavy overcast weather  
or a tunnel. This is normal.  
There is a delay in the transition between the daytime  
and nighttime operation of the Daytime Running  
Lamps (DRL) and the automatic headlamp systems,  
so that driving under bridges or bright overhead  
street lights does not affect the system. The DRL  
and automatic headlamp system will only be affected  
when the light sensor sees a change in lighting  
lasting longer than the delay.  
3-16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Fog Lamps  
Instrument Panel Brightness  
Your vehicle may have this feature. Use your fog lamps  
for better vision in foggy or misty conditions. Your  
ignition must be in RUN for your fog lamps to work.  
Press the knob located  
next to the exterior lamps  
knob to extend it.  
The fog lamp button is  
located on the instrument  
panel to the right of  
the exterior lamps knob.  
Turn the knob to adjust the instrument panel lights. Turn  
the knob all the way up to turn on the interior lamps.  
Press the knob back into its stored position when you’re  
not using it.  
Press the button to turn the fog lamps on. Press the  
button again to turn them off. A light will glow near  
the button while the fog lamps are on. Fog lamps will  
turn off whenever your high-beam headlamps are on.  
Dome Lamps  
The dome lamps will come on when you open a door  
unless the dome lamp override is pressed in.  
You can also turn the dome lamps on by turning the  
thumbwheel, located next to the exterior lamps knob, all  
the way up to the top detent position. In this position,  
the dome lamps will remain on until they are turned off.  
3-17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Dome Lamp Override  
Entry Lighting  
Your vehicle is equipped with entry lighting.  
The dome override button  
is located below the  
exterior lamps knob.  
When a door is opened, the dome lamps will come  
on if the dome override button is in the “out” position.  
When all the doors are closed, the lamps will stay on for  
a short period of time and will then turn off automatically.  
If you use your keyless entry transmitter to unlock the  
vehicle, the interior lights will come on for a short  
time whether or not the dome override is on.  
Exit Lighting  
With exit lighting, the interior lamps will come on  
when you remove the key from the ignition to help you  
see while exiting the vehicle. With the dome override  
button in the “out” position, these lights will stay on for a  
short period of time and then will go out.  
To turn the dome lamps off, press the button. The  
dome lamps will remain off when a door is open. This  
will override the illuminated entry feature unless you  
use your keyless entry transmitter to unlock the vehicle.  
To return the lamps to automatic operation, press the  
button again. The dome lamps will come on when  
you open a door.  
Reading Lamps  
The reading lamps are located in the console for front  
passengers and on the headliner for rear passengers.  
Press the lens on the lamps to turn the reading lamps on  
and press the lens again to turn the lamps off.  
3-18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Remove the cover from the outlet to use the outlet.  
Be sure to put the cover back on when not using the  
accessory power outlet.  
Battery Run-Down Protection  
This feature shuts off the dome, courtesy and vanity  
if they are left on for more than 20 minutes when  
the ignition is off. This will keep your battery from  
running down.  
Certain electrical accessories may not be compatible  
with the accessory power outlet and could result  
in blown vehicle or adaptor fuses. If you experience  
a problem, see your dealer for additional information on  
the accessory power outlets.  
If the battery run-down protection shuts off the interior  
lamps, it may be necessary to do one of the following  
to return to normal operation:  
Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to your  
vehicle may damage it or keep other components  
from working as they should. The repairs would not  
be covered by your warranty. Do not use equipment  
exceeding maximum amperage rating. Check  
Shut off all lamps and close all doors.  
Turn the ignition key to RUN.  
This feature will also turn off the parking lamps and  
headlamps under most circumstances, if they are left on.  
If you would like to turn them back on, turn the exterior  
lamps knob.  
with your dealer before adding electrical equipment.  
When adding electrical equipment, be sure to follow  
the proper installation instructions included with  
the equipment.  
Accessory Power Outlets  
Notice: Improper use of the power outlet can cause  
damage not covered by your warranty. Do not  
hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket  
from the plug because the power outlets are  
designed for accessory power plugs only.  
Your vehicle may have accessory power outlets. With  
the accessory power outlets, you can plug in auxiliary  
electrical equipment such as a cellular telephone or  
CB radio.  
The first two outlets are located below the cigarette  
lighter and the rear wiper switch on the instrument panel.  
The third outlet is located on the rear of the center  
console.  
3-19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter  
Climate Controls  
Your vehicle may have this feature. The ashtray is  
removable and fits into the front cupholder.  
Dual Climate Control System  
Notice: If you put papers, pins, or other flammable  
items in the ashtray, hot cigarettes or other smoking  
materials could ignite them and possibly damage  
your vehicle. Never put flammable items in the  
ashtray.  
With this system you can control the heating, cooling  
and ventilation for your vehicle.  
To remove the ashtray, pull the covered bin out of the  
cupholder.  
To use the lighter, press it in all the way, and let go.  
When it’s ready, it will pop back out by itself.  
Notice: Holding a cigarette lighter in while it is  
heating will not allow the lighter to back away from  
the heating element when it is hot. Damage from  
overheating may occur to the lighter or heating  
element, or a fuse could be blown. Do not hold a  
cigarette lighter in while it is heating.  
9(Fan): Turn the left knob clockwise or  
counterclockwise to increase or decrease the fan speed.  
If the knob is in off mode, outside air will still enter the  
vehicle, and will be directed based on the position of the  
mode knob. The temperature can still be adjusted  
using the temperature knob.  
Turn the right knob clockwise or counterclockwise to  
direct the airflow inside of your vehicle.  
3-20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To change the current mode, select one of the following:  
Driver’s Side Temperature Knob: The lever on the  
left side of the climate control panel is used to raise or  
lower the temperature on the driver’s side of the  
vehicle. Slide the lever up or down to adjust the  
temperature.  
H (Vent): This mode directs air to the instrument  
panel outlets.  
)(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. A little air is  
directed toward the windshield and the side window  
outlets. Cooler air is directed to the upper vents  
and warmer air to the floor outlets.  
Passenger’s Side Temperature Knob: The lever on  
the right side of the climate control panel is used to  
raise or lower the temperature on the passenger’s side  
of the vehicle. Slide the lever up or down to adjust  
the temperature. This lever also adjusts the temperature  
to the rear seat outlets.  
6 (Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the  
floor outlets with a little air directed to the windshield  
and the side window outlets. The recirculation button  
cannot be selected while in floor mode.  
When the temperature outside is 0°F (-18°C) or lower,  
use the engine coolant heater, if equipped, to provide  
warmer air, faster to your vehicle.  
#(Air Conditioning): Press this button to turn the  
air-conditioning system on or off. When the button  
is pressed, an indicator light will come on and the  
system will begin to cool and dehumidify the air  
inside of your vehicle. You may notice a slight change  
in engine performance when the air conditioning  
compressor shuts off and turns on again. This is normal.  
h (Recirculation): Recirculation mode is used  
to recirculate the air inside of your vehicle. When  
this button is pressed, an indicator light in the button  
will come on to let you know that it is active. Use  
this mode to help prevent outside odors and/or dust  
from entering your vehicle or to help cool the air inside  
of your vehicle more quickly. The air conditioning  
compressor will also come on when this mode is  
activated. While in recirculation mode, the windows  
may fog when the weather is cold and damp. To clear  
the fog, select either the defog or defrost mode and  
increase fan speed.  
3-21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Defogging and Defrosting  
Rear Window Defogger  
Fog on the inside of windows is a result of high  
humidity (moisture) condensing on the cool window  
glass. This can be minimized if the climate control  
system is used properly. There are two modes to choose  
from to clear fog or frost from your windshield. 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.  
Your vehicle may have this feature. The lines you see  
on the rear window warm the glass.  
< (Rear): Press this button to turn the rear window  
defogger on or off. An indicator light in the button  
will come on to let you know that the rear window  
defogger is active. The rear window defogger will  
automatically turn off approximately ten minutes after  
the button is pressed.  
Turn the right knob clockwise or counterclockwise  
to select one of the following modes:  
If your vehicle is equipped with heated mirrors, this  
button will activate them.  
-(Defog): This mode directs the air to the floor  
outlets, windshield and side window outlets. The  
recirculation button cannot be selected while in  
defog mode.  
Notice: Do not use anything sharp on the inside  
of the rear window. If you do, you could cut or  
damage the warming grid, and the repairs would  
not be covered by your warranty. Do not attach  
a temporary vehicle license, tape, a decal or  
anything similar to the defogger grid.  
1(Defrost): This mode directs most of the air to the  
windshield and the side window outlets, with only a  
little air directed to the floor outlets. The air conditioning  
compressor may run to dehumidify the air to prevent  
window fogging. The recirculation button cannot  
be selected while in defrost mode. Do not drive the  
vehicle until all the windows are clear.  
3-22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Outside Air Temperature Display  
Dual Automatic Climate Control  
System  
A new outside temperature reading will be displayed  
if the vehicle has been off for more than three hours.  
If the vehicle has been off for less than three hours, the  
old temperature reading may be displayed because  
underhood heat is affecting the true outside temperature.  
Your vehicle may have the dual automatic climate  
control system. With this system you can control the  
heating, cooling and ventilation for your vehicle.  
Since underhood heat can also affect the outside  
temperature while the engine is running, it may take  
several minutes of driving before the display updates  
to the actual outside temperature.  
9(Off): Press this button to turn off the entire climate  
control system. Outside air will still enter the vehicle,  
and will be directed to the floor. Press the AUTO button,  
the mode button, the fan arrows, or either temperature  
knob to turn the system on.  
C (Mode): Press this button to manually select the  
air delivery mode to the floor, instrument panel, or  
windshield outlets. The system will stay in the selected  
mode until the mode button is pressed again or the  
AUTO button is pressed.  
When your vehicle is first started and the climate  
control system is on, or if the climate control system  
has been turned on, the display will show the driver’s  
temperature setting for five seconds. Then it will  
show the outside temperature.  
3-23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Driver’s Side Temperature Knob: Turn this knob  
clockwise or counterclockwise to manually raise or  
lower the temperature on the driver’s side of the vehicle.  
The display will show the temperature setting decreasing  
or increasing and an arrow pointing toward the driver.  
This knob can also adjust the passenger’s side  
temperature setting simultaneously if the two zones  
are linked.  
Automatic Operation  
AUTO (Automatic): When automatic operation is  
active, the system will control the inside temperature,  
the air delivery mode, and the fan speed.  
Use the steps below to place the entire system in  
automatic mode:  
1. Press the AUTO button.  
Passenger’s Side Temperature Knob: Turn this  
knob clockwise or counterclockwise to manually raise  
or lower the temperature on the passenger’s side  
of the vehicle. The display will show the temperature  
setting decreasing or increasing and an arrow pointing  
toward the passenger. The passenger’s temperature  
setting can be set to match and link to the driver’s  
temperature setting by pressing and holding the  
AUTO button for three seconds. Now, by adjusting the  
driver’s side temperature setting, the passenger’s  
side temperature setting will follow and both arrows  
will appear on the display. The passenger’s side  
temperature setting also resets and relinks to the  
driver’s side temperature setting if the vehicle has  
been off for more than three hours.  
When AUTO is selected, the air conditioning  
operation and air inlet mode will be automatically  
controlled. The air conditioning compressor will run  
when the outside temperature is over approximately  
40°F (4°C). The air inlet will normally be set to  
outside air. If it’s hot outside, the air inlet will  
automatically switch to recirculate inside air to help  
quickly cool down your vehicle.  
2. Set the driver’s and passenger’s temperature.  
To find your comfort setting, start with a 72°F (22°C)  
temperature setting and allow about 20 minutes  
for the system to regulate. Turn the driver’s or  
passenger’s side temperature knob to adjust the  
temperature setting as necessary. If you choose the  
temperature setting of 60°F (15°C), the system  
will remain at the maximum cooling setting. If you  
choose the temperature setting of 90°F (32°C),  
the system will remain at the maximum heat setting.  
Choosing either maximum setting may not cause  
the vehicle to heat or cool any faster.  
3-24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Manual Operation  
6(Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the  
floor outlets. Some air also comes out of the defroster  
and side window outlets. The recirculation button cannot  
be selected in floor mode.  
To change the current setting, select one of the  
following:  
w9x (Fan): This button allows you to manually  
adjust the fan speed. Press the up arrow to increase  
fan speed and the down arrow to decrease fan speed.  
The display will change to show you the selected  
fan speed and the driver’s side temperature setting for  
five seconds.  
h (Recirculation): Press this button to turn  
recirculation mode on or off. When this button is  
pressed, an indicator light in the button will also come  
on to let you know that it is activated. Recirculation  
mode is used to recirculate the air inside of your vehicle.  
Use this mode to help prevent outside odors and/or  
dust from entering your vehicle or to help cool the air  
inside of your vehicle more quickly. Recirculation  
mode can be used with vent and bi-level modes, but it  
cannot be used with floor, defog or defrost modes.  
See “Defogging and Defrosting” later in this section.  
C (Mode): Press this button to manually change the  
direction of the airflow in your vehicle. Keep pressing the  
button until the desired mode appears on the display.  
The display will change to show you the selected  
air delivery mode and the driver’s temperature setting  
for five seconds.  
You may also notice that the air conditioning compressor  
will run while in recirculation mode. This is normal  
and will help to prevent fogging.  
H(Vent): This mode directs air to the instrument  
panel outlets.  
If the weather is cold and damp, the system may  
cause the windows to fog while using recirculation  
mode. If the windows do start to fog, select defog or  
defrost mode.  
)(Bi-Level): This mode directs approximately half of  
the air to the instrument panel outlets, then directs  
the remaining air to the floor outlets. A little air is  
directed toward the windshield and the side window  
outlets. Cooler air is directed to the upper outlets and  
warmer air to the floor outlets.  
Recirculation mode, if selected, will be cleared when  
the engine is turned off.  
3-25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
#A/C (Air Conditioning): Press this button to  
manually turn the air conditioning system on or off.  
When the system is on, the system will automatically  
begin to cool and dehumidify the air inside of your  
vehicle. The air conditioning symbol will appear on the  
display when the air conditioning is on and will turn  
off when the air conditioning is off.  
Defogging and Defrosting  
Fog on the inside of windows is a result of high humidity  
(moisture) condensing on the cool window glass. This  
can be minimized if the climate control system is  
used properly. You can use either defog or front defrost  
to clear fog or frost from your windshield.  
-(Defog): Use this setting to clear the windows of  
fog or moisture. This setting will deliver air to the  
floor and windshield outlets.  
If you select turn the air conditioning off while in front  
defrost or defog mode, the air conditioning symbol  
will turn off, however, the A/C compressor will remain  
on to help de-humidify the air inside the vehicle. If one of  
the other modes is selected the compressor will then  
turn the A/C off until it is selected again or the  
AUTO button is pressed.  
0 (Defrost): Press the front defrost button to clear  
the windshield and side windows of frost or fog quickly.  
The system will automatically control the fan speed if  
you select defrost from AUTO mode. If the outside  
temperature is 40°F (4°C) or warmer, your air  
conditioning compressor will automatically run to help  
dehumidify the air and dry the windshield. Do not  
drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear.  
You may notice a slight change in engine performance  
when the air conditioning compressor shuts off and  
turns on again. This is normal.  
3-26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Rear Window Defogger  
Outlet Adjustment  
The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to  
remove fog from the rear window.  
Use the air outlets located in the center and on the side  
of your instrument panel to direct the airflow.  
< (Rear): Press this button to turn the rear window  
Operation Tips  
defogger on or off.  
Keep the hood and front air inlets free of ice, snow,  
or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The  
heater and defroster will work far better, reducing  
the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.  
An indicator light in the button will come on to let you  
know that the rear window defogger is activated.  
The rear window defogger will turn off approximately  
10 minutes after the button is pressed. If you need  
additional warming time, press the button again.  
When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn the  
fan knob all the way to the right for a few moments  
before driving. This helps clear the intake ducts  
of snow and moisture, and reduces the chance of  
fogging the inside of your window.  
If equipped, your heated mirrors will also come on when  
you press this button.  
Notice: Using a razor blade or sharp object to  
clear the inside rear window may damage the rear  
window defogger. Repairs would not be covered  
by your warranty. Do not clear the inside of the  
rear window with sharp objects.  
Keep the air path under the front seats clear of  
objects. This helps air to circulate throughout  
your vehicle.  
Adding outside equipment to the front of your  
vehicle, such as hood-air deflectors, may affect the  
performance of the heating and air conditioning  
system. Check with your dealer before adding  
equipment to the outside of your vehicle.  
3-27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
H (Panel): When panel mode is selected in the front  
controller, the rear system will distribute air from the  
four headliner outlets.  
Rear Climate Control System  
Envoy  
Your vehicle has one of the following rear climate  
control systems. With any of these systems, the rear  
climate controls will be disabled when the front climate  
control system is in defrost. This occurs to provide  
maximum airflow to clear the windshield.  
) (Bi-level): When bi-level mode is selected in  
the front controller, the rear system will distribute air  
from the four headliner outlets and the third seat  
floor outlet.  
6 (Floor): When floor mode is selected in the front  
controller, the rear system will distribute air from the  
third seat floor outlet.  
The temperature of the air coming through the rear  
outlets is determined by the front passenger’s  
temperature setting. Press the PWR button to turn the  
rear climate controls on and off. Use the mode knob  
to change the direction of airflow (upper, bi-level or floor)  
to the rear seat area.  
The rear mode and temperature positions now mimic  
the front control system mode and passenger side  
temperature.  
3-28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Envoy or Envoy Denali  
Envoy XL  
To operate the rear air conditioning system, the front  
air conditioning system must be on. With the front  
air conditioning system off, the rear system controls can  
only be used to circulate air in the rear of the vehicle.  
To adjust the airflow  
speed, turn the fan knob  
(driver override switch),  
located on the front  
center floor console to 1,  
2 or 3. The rear mode  
and temperature positions  
now mimic the front  
control system mode  
and passenger side  
temperature.  
If your vehicle has the rear seat audio system, the  
lower buttons are used to adjust the rear seat climate  
control system. The temperature of the air coming  
through the rear outlets is determined by the front  
passenger’s temperature setting.  
z9 y (Fan): Press this button to adjust the fan  
speed.  
To activate the second row seat controls in the  
following systems, set the fan knob, located on the  
front console, to R.  
z\ y (Mode): Press this button to change the  
direction of airflow (panel, bi-level or floor) to the rear  
seat area.  
P (On/Off): Press this button to turn the rear climate  
controls on or off.  
The rear control will only turn on if the front is on and  
not in defrost mode.  
3-29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Turn the knobs on the control panel to choose a fan  
speed, temperature and direction of airflow.  
Press the buttons at the bottom of the audio control  
panel to adjust the fan speed, mode and temperature for  
the rear passengers. The selections will be shown on  
the display.  
H (Panel): Selecting panel mode will deliver air to the  
four headliner outlets.  
z9 y (Fan): Press the rear fan control button with  
the arrow pointing right to turn the rear climate control  
on. Toggle this button to adjust the air flow speed.  
To turn the rear system off, toggle the left arrow until  
the display turns off.  
) (Bi-level): Selecting bi-level mode will deliver  
warmer air to the third seat floor outlet and cooler air  
to the headliner outlets.  
6 (Floor): Selecting floor mode will deliver air to the  
floor outlet located in the third seat area.  
3-30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem  
with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages  
and warning lights work together to let you know when  
there’s a problem with your vehicle.  
z\ y (Mode): Press this button to change the  
direction of airflow (panel, bi-level or floor) to the rear  
seat area.  
zb y (Temperature): Press this button to increase  
When one of the warning lights comes on and stays  
on when you are driving, or when one of the gages  
shows there may be a problem, check the section  
that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this  
manual’s advice.  
and decrease the temperature setting.  
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.  
Waiting to do repairs can be costly — and even  
dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights  
and gages. They’re a big help.  
Your vehicle may also have a Driver Information  
Center (DIC) that works along with the warning lights  
on page 3-49.  
Warning lights and gages can signal that something  
is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an  
expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to  
your warning lights and gages could also save you  
or others from injury.  
Warning lights come on when there may be or is a  
problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you  
will see in the details on the next few pages, some  
warning lights come on briefly when you start the engine  
just to let you know they’re working. If you are familiar  
with this section, you should not be alarmed when  
this happens.  
3-31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Instrument Panel Cluster  
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, about how much fuel you’ve used, and many other thing you’ll need to know to drive safely  
and economically.  
United States version shown, Canada similar  
3-32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The odometer mileage can be checked without the  
vehicle running. Simply press the trip stem on the  
instrument panel cluster.  
Speedometer and Odometer  
Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both  
miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h).  
If your vehicle ever needs a new odometer installed, the  
new one will be set to the correct mileage total of the  
old odometer.  
Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has  
been driven, in either miles (used in the United States)  
or kilometers (used in Canada).  
Tachometer  
The odometer mileage can be checked without the  
vehicle running. Simply press the trip stem located on  
the instrument panel cluster.  
The tachometer  
displays the engine  
speed in revolutions  
per minute (rpm).  
You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs  
a new odometer installed. The new one will be set to the  
correct mileage total of the old odometer.  
Trip Odometer  
The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle  
has been driven since you last set the trip odometer  
to zero.  
Your vehicle’s odometer works together with the  
Driver Information Center (DIC). You can set a Trip A  
and Trip B odometer. See “Trip Information” under  
3-33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Safety Belt Reminder Light  
Passenger Safety Belt Reminder  
Light  
When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will  
be provided for several seconds to remind people to  
buckle their safety belts. The driver safety belt light will  
also be provided and stay on for several seconds,  
then it will flash for several more. You should buckle  
your seat belt.  
Several seconds after the key is turned to RUN or  
START, a chime will be provided for several seconds to  
remind the front passenger to buckle their safety belt.  
This would only occur if the passenger airbag is  
enabled. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-62  
for more information. The passenger safety belt light  
will also be provided and stay on for several seconds,  
then it will flash for several more. You should have  
the passenger buckle their safety belt.  
This chime and light will  
be repeated if the driver  
remains unbuckled and  
the vehicle is in motion.  
This chime and light will be  
repeated if the passenger  
remains unbuckled and  
the vehicle is in motion.  
If the driver’s belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the  
light will be provided.  
If the passenger’s safety belt is buckled, neither the  
chime nor the light will be provided.  
3-34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Airbag Readiness Light  
{CAUTION:  
There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument  
panel, which shows the airbag symbol. The system  
checks the airbag’s electrical system for malfunctions.  
The light tells you if there is an electrical problem.  
The system check includes the airbag sensors, the  
airbag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and  
diagnostic module. For more information on the  
airbag system, see Airbag System on page 1-52.  
If the airbag readiness light stays on after you  
start your vehicle, it means the airbag system  
may not be working properly. The airbags in  
your vehicle may not inflate in a crash, or they  
could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid  
injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle  
serviced right away if the airbag readiness light  
stays on after you start your vehicle.  
This light will come on  
when you start your  
vehicle, and it will flash  
for a few seconds.  
The airbag readiness light should flash for a  
few seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN.  
If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it  
will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.  
Then the light should  
go out. This means  
the system is ready.  
If the airbag readiness light stays on after you  
start the vehicle or comes on when you are driving,  
your airbag system may not work properly. Have your  
vehicle serviced right away.  
3-35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the passenger  
airbag status indicator, it means that the right front  
passenger’s frontal airbag is enabled (may inflate).  
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator  
Your vehicle has the passenger sensing system, Your  
rearview mirror has a passenger airbag status indicator.  
{CAUTION:  
If the on indicator comes on when you have a  
rear-facing child restraint installed in the right  
front passenger’s seat, it means that the  
passenger sensing system has not turned off  
the passenger’s frontal airbag. A child in a  
rear-facing child restraint can be seriously  
injured or killed if the right front passenger’s  
airbag inflates. This is because the back of the  
rear-facing child restraint would be very close  
to the inflating airbag. Do not use a rear-facing  
child restraint in the right front passenger’s  
seat if the airbag is turned on.  
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator – United States  
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator – Canada  
When the ignition key is turned to RUN or START, the  
passenger airbag status indicator will light ON and OFF,  
or the symbol for on and off, for several seconds as a  
system check. Then, after several more seconds, the  
status indicator will light either ON or OFF, or either the  
on or off symbol to let you know the status of the right  
front passenger’s frontal airbag.  
If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the airbag  
status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing  
system has turned off the right front passenger’s frontal  
airbag. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-62  
for more on this, including important safety information.  
3-36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If, after several seconds, all status indicator lights  
remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may  
be a problem with the lights or the passenger sensing  
system. See your dealer for service.  
Charging System Light  
The charging system light  
will come on briefly when  
you turn on the ignition,  
but the engine is not  
running, as a check to  
show you it is working.  
{CAUTION:  
If the off indicator and the airbag readiness  
light ever come on together, it means that  
something may be wrong with the airbag  
system. If this ever happens, have the vehicle  
serviced promptly, because an adult-size  
person sitting in the right front passenger  
seat may not have the protection of the  
frontal airbag. See Airbag Readiness Light  
on page 3-35.  
It should go out once the engine is running. If it stays  
on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have  
a problem with the charging system. It could indicate  
that you have problems with a generator drive belt,  
or another electrical problem. Have it checked  
right away. Driving while this light is on could drain  
your battery.  
If you must drive a short distance with the light on,  
be certain to turn off all your accessories, such as the  
radio and air conditioner.  
3-37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
You can only drive for a short time with the reading in  
either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all  
unnecessary accessories.  
Voltmeter Gage  
When your engine is not  
running, but the ignition  
is in RUN, this gage shows  
your battery’s state of  
charge in DC volts.  
Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible  
problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle  
serviced as soon as possible.  
Brake System Warning Light  
When the ignition is 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. A chime  
may also sound when the light comes on.  
When the engine is running, the gage shows the  
condition of the charging system. Readings between  
the low and high warning zones indicate the normal  
operating range.  
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.  
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 idling for an extended  
period. This condition is normal since the charging  
system is not able to provide full power at engine  
idle. As engine speeds are increased, this condition  
should correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the  
charging system to create maximum power.  
If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake  
problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.  
3-38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
{CAUTION:  
Your brake system may not be working  
properly if the brake system warning light is  
on. Driving with the brake system warning  
light on can lead to an accident. If the light  
is still on after you have pulled off the road  
and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed  
for service.  
United States  
Canada  
This light should come on briefly when you turn the  
ignition key to RUN. If it doesn’t come on then, have  
it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a  
problem.  
If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the  
road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal  
is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to  
the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still  
on, have the vehicle towed for service. See Towing  
Your Vehicle on page 4-50.  
3-39  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Anti-Lock Brake System  
Warning Light  
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage  
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. A chime  
may also sound when  
the light comes on.  
United States  
Canada  
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. See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-38  
earlier in this section.  
This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the  
gage pointer moves into the red area, it means that  
your engine coolant has overheated. If you have been  
operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions,  
you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and  
turn off the engine as soon as possible.  
See Engine Overheating on page 5-26 for more  
information.  
The anti-lock brake system warning light should come  
on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN.  
If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it  
will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.  
3-40  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Notice: Modifications made to the engine,  
transmission, exhaust, intake, or fuel system of  
your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires  
with other than those of the same Tire Performance  
Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission  
controls and may cause this light to come on.  
Modifications to these systems could lead to costly  
repairs not covered by your warranty. This may  
also result in a failure to pass a required Emission  
Inspection/Maintenance test.  
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 light should come on, as a check to show you it  
is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not  
running. If the light does not come on, have it repaired.  
This light will also come on during a malfunction in  
one of two ways:  
This system is called OBD II (On-Board  
Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to  
assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the  
life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner  
environment. The check engine light comes on to  
indicate that there is a problem and service is required.  
Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system  
before any problem is apparent. This may prevent more  
serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also  
designed to assist your service technician in correctly  
diagnosing any malfunction.  
Light Flashing — A misfire condition has been  
detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions  
and may damage the emission control system on  
your vehicle. Diagnosis and service may be  
required.  
Light On Steady — An emission control system  
malfunction has been detected on your vehicle.  
Diagnosis and service may be required.  
Notice: If you keep driving your vehicle with this  
light on, after awhile, your emission controls may not  
work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good,  
and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could  
lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by  
your warranty.  
3-41  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If the Light is Flashing  
If the Light Is On Steady  
The following may prevent more serious damage to  
your vehicle:  
You may be able to correct the emission system  
malfunction by considering the following:  
Reducing vehicle speed  
Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle?  
If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install  
the cap. See Filling the Tank on page 5-8. The  
diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has  
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.  
Avoiding hard accelerations  
Avoiding steep uphill grades  
If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of  
cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible  
If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see  
“If the Light Is On Steady” following.  
Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water?  
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so,  
stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle.  
Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart  
the engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If  
the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light is still  
flashing, follow the previous steps, and see your dealer  
for service as soon as possible.  
If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition  
will usually be corrected when the electrical system  
dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.  
Have you recently changed brands of fuel?  
If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel. See  
Gasoline Octane on page 5-5. Poor fuel quality will  
cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed.  
You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling  
when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation  
on acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration. (These  
conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.)  
This will be detected by the system and cause the  
light to turn on.  
3-42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If you experience one or more of these conditions,  
change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least  
one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.  
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.  
If none of the above steps have made the light turn off,  
your dealer can check the vehicle. Your dealer has  
the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any  
mechanical or electrical problems that may have  
developed.  
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the OBD  
(on-board diagnostic) system determines that critical  
emission control systems have not been completely  
diagnosed by the system. The vehicle would be  
considered not ready for inspection. This can happen if  
you have recently replaced your battery or if your  
battery has run down. The diagnostic system is  
designed to evaluate critical emission control systems  
during normal driving. This may take several days  
of routine driving. If you have done this and your vehicle  
still does not pass the inspection for lack of OBD  
system readiness, your GM dealer can prepare the  
vehicle for inspection.  
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance  
Programs  
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.  
3-43  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Oil Pressure Gage  
{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. Always follow  
the maintenance schedule in this manual for  
changing engine oil.  
United States  
Canada  
The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure  
in psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine  
is running. Canadian vehicles indicate pressure in  
kPa (kilopascals).  
Oil pressure may vary with engine speed, outside  
temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the  
low pressure zone indicate the normal operating range.  
A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused  
by a dangerously low oil level or other problems causing  
low oil pressure.  
3-44  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Change Engine Oil Light  
Security Light  
When this light comes on,  
This light will come on  
briefly when you turn the  
key toward START.  
it means that an oil change  
and other maintenance  
procedures are required for  
your vehicle.  
Oil on page 5-15 for more information.  
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 2-18.  
Once the engine oil has been changed, the change  
engine oil light must be reset. Until it is reset, the light  
will be displayed when the engine is on.  
If the light comes on continuously while driving and  
stays on, there may be a problem with the Passlock®  
system. Your vehicle will not be protected by Passlock®,  
and you should see your dealer.  
Also, see Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-17 for  
additional information regarding the security light.  
3-45  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
This light may also come on if there is a problem with  
the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. If this  
happens, take the vehicle in for service as soon  
as possible.  
Cruise Control Light  
The cruise light appears  
whenever you set your  
cruise control.  
Highbeam On Light  
This light will come on  
when the high-beam  
headlamps are in use.  
Reduced Engine Power Light  
This light is displayed  
when a noticeable  
reduction in the vehicle’s  
performance may occur.  
The vehicle may be driven at a reduced speed when  
the reduced engine power light is on but acceleration  
and speed may be reduced. The performance may  
be reduced until the next time you drive your vehicle.  
If this light stays on, see your dealer as soon as possible  
for diagnosis and repair.  
3-46  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Service Four-Wheel Drive  
Warning Light  
Check Gages Warning Light  
The check gages light will  
come on briefly when you  
are starting the engine.  
This light should come on  
briefly when you turn on  
the ignition, as a check to  
show you it is working.  
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.  
The service four-wheel drive light comes on to indicate  
that there may be a problem with the drive system  
and service is required. Malfunctions can be indicated  
by the system before any problem is apparent,  
which may prevent serious damage to the vehicle.  
This system is also designed to assist your GM dealer  
in correctly diagnosing a malfunction.  
Gate Ajar Light  
If this light comes on,  
your liftgate or liftglass  
is not completely shut.  
Close the liftgate or liftglass. Never drive with the liftgate  
or liftglass even partially open.  
3-47  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The gage moves a little when you turn a corner or  
speed up.  
Fuel Gage  
The gage doesn’t go back to empty when you turn  
off the ignition.  
Low Fuel Warning Light  
The light next to the fuel gage will come on briefly when  
you are starting the engine.  
This light comes on when the fuel tank is low on fuel.  
To turn it off, add fuel to the fuel tank. See Fuel on  
page 5-5.  
United States  
Canada  
Check Gas Cap Light  
When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about  
how much fuel you have remaining.  
If equipped, this light will  
come on if your gas cap  
is not securely fastened.  
Here are four things that some owners ask about.  
None of these show a problem with your fuel gage:  
At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before  
the gage reads full.  
It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the  
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.  
See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 3-41 for more  
information.  
3-48  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Driver Information Center (DIC)  
Your vehicle may have this feature. The Driver  
Information Center (DIC) display is located on the  
instrument panel cluster, below the speedometer. The  
DIC buttons, if equipped, are located on the steering  
wheel. The DIC can display information such as the trip  
odometer, fuel economy, customization features, and  
warning/status messages.  
If your vehicle is not equipped with the DIC steering  
wheel buttons, you will not have all of the features listed.  
You will scroll through the odometer and trip odometer  
by pressing the trip odometer reset stem located on  
the instrument panel cluster. You will also turn off,  
or acknowledge, DIC messages by pressing the trip  
odometer reset stem. See Speedometer and Odometer  
on page 3-33 for information on features for vehicles  
without DIC buttons.  
A 3 (Trip Information): Press this button to display  
the odometer, trip odometers, and timer.  
B t (Fuel Information): Press this button to display  
the current range, fuel used, average fuel economy, and  
engine oil life.  
C 4 (Customization): Press this button to access the  
vehicle settings menu and customize the personal  
settings on your vehicle.  
D r (Select): Press this button to reset certain DIC  
functions and set your customization settings.  
Pressing any of the four DIC buttons will acknowledge  
DIC messages and clear them from the DIC display.  
3-49  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Odometer: Press the trip information button until  
ODOMETER appears on the display. This mode  
shows the total distance the vehicle has been driven  
in either miles or kilometers. Pressing the reset  
stem located on the instrument cluster with the vehicle  
off will also display the odometer.  
DIC Operation and Displays  
The DIC comes on when the ignition is on. After a short  
delay the DIC will display the information that was  
last displayed before the engine was turned off.  
If a problem is detected, a warning message will appear  
on the display. Pressing the trip stem will acknowledge  
any warning or service messages. Pressing any of  
the DIC steering wheel buttons — trip information, fuel  
information, customization, or select button — will  
also acknowledge any warnings or service messages.  
Trip A: Press the trip information button until TRIP A  
appears on the display. This mode shows the current  
distance traveled since the last reset for TRIP A in either  
miles or kilometers.  
Trip B: Press the trip information button until TRIP B  
appears on the display. This mode shows the current  
distance traveled since the last reset for TRIP B in either  
miles or kilometers.  
You should take any message that appears on the  
display seriously and remember that clearing the  
message will only make the message disappear, not  
correct the problem.  
To reset TRIP A or TRIP B information, press and hold  
the select button for one second while in one of the  
trip modes. This will reset the information for TRIP A or  
TRIP B.  
The DIC has different modes which can be accessed  
by pressing the four DIC buttons located on the  
steering wheel. These buttons are trip information, fuel  
information, customization, and select. The button  
functions are detailed in the following pages.  
You can also reset the TRIP A or TRIP B while they  
are displayed by pressing the reset stem on the cluster.  
If you press and hold the reset stem or the select  
button for four seconds, the display will show the  
distance traveled since the last ignition cycle for TRIP A  
or TRIP B.  
Trip Information Button  
3 (Trip Information): Press the trip information  
button to scroll through the ODOMETER, TRIP A,  
TRIP B, and TIMER.  
3-50  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Timer: The DIC can be used as a timer. Press the  
select button while TIMER is displayed to start the timer.  
The display will show the amount of time that has  
passed since the timer was last reset, not including time  
the ignition is off. Time will continue to be counted as  
long as the ignition is on, even if another display is being  
shown on the DIC. The timer will record up to 99 hours,  
59 minutes and 59 seconds (99:59:59) after which  
the display will roll back to zero.  
The fuel economy data used to determine fuel range  
is an average of recent driving conditions. As your  
driving conditions change, this data is gradually updated.  
Fuel range cannot be reset.  
Fuel Used: Press the fuel information button until  
FUEL USED appears on the display. This mode shows  
the number of gallons or liters of fuel used since the  
last reset of this menu item. To reset the fuel used  
information, press and hold the select button for  
one second while FUEL USED is displayed.  
To stop the counting of time, press the select button  
briefly while TIMER is displayed.  
Average Fuel Economy: Press the fuel information  
button until AVG. ECON appears on the display.  
This mode shows how many miles per gallon (MPG),  
liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km), or kilometers  
per liter (km/L) your vehicle is getting based on current  
and past driving conditions.  
To reset the timer to zero, press and hold the select  
button while TIMER is displayed.  
Fuel Information Button  
t (Fuel Information): Press the fuel information  
button to scroll through the range, average fuel  
economy, instant fuel economy, and the engine oil  
life system.  
Press and hold the select button for one second while  
AVG. ECON is displayed to reset the average fuel  
economy. Average fuel economy will then be calculated  
starting from that point. If the average fuel economy  
is not reset, it will be continually updated each time  
you drive.  
Fuel Range: Press the fuel information button until  
RANGE appears on the display. This mode shows the  
remaining distance you can drive without refueling.  
It is based on fuel economy and the fuel remaining in  
the tank. The display will show LOW if the fuel level  
is low.  
3-51  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Engine Oil Life System: Press the fuel information  
button until ENGINE OIL LIFE appears on the display.  
The engine oil life system shows an estimate of the  
oil’s remaining useful life. It will show 100% when the  
system is reset after an oil change. It will alert you  
to change your oil on a schedule consistent with your  
driving conditions.  
Customization Button  
4 (Customization): Press the customization button  
to access the VEHICLE SETTINGS menu and  
customize the settings to your vehicle. See DIC Vehicle  
Customization on page 3-56 for more information.  
Select Button  
Always reset the engine oil life system after an oil  
change. To reset the engine oil life system, use the  
fuel button to reach the ENGINE OIL LIFE screen and  
then press and hold the select button for five seconds  
while ENGINE OIL LIFE is displayed. OIL LIFE RESET  
will appear on the display for 10 seconds to let you  
know the system is reset. See Engine Oil Life System  
on page 5-18 for more information.  
r (Select): Press the select button to reset certain  
DIC functions, turn off or acknowledge messages  
on the DIC display, and set your customization settings.  
For example, this button will allow you to reset the  
trip odometers, turn off the FUEL LEVEL LOW message,  
and scroll through and select the desired language  
information is displayed on the DIC.  
In addition to the engine oil life system monitoring the  
oil life, additional maintenance is recommended in  
the Maintenance Schedule in this manual. See Engine  
Oil on page 5-15 and Scheduled Maintenance on  
page 6-4.  
3-52  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHECK WASHER FLUID  
DIC Warnings and Messages  
If the washer fluid level is low, this message will appear  
on the DIC. Adding washer fluid will clear the message.  
See Windshield Washer Fluid on page 5-34. Press  
the select button to acknowledge this message and clear  
it from the DIC display.  
Messages are displayed on the DIC to notify the driver  
that the status of the vehicle has changed and that  
some action may be needed by the driver to correct the  
condition. More than one message may appear at  
one time. They will appear one behind the other. Some  
messages may not require immediate action but you  
should press the trip stem to acknowledge that you  
received the message and clear it from the display.  
Pressing any of the DIC steering wheel buttons — trip  
information, fuel information, customization or select  
button — will also acknowledge any warnings or service  
messages. Some messages cannot be cleared from  
the display because they are more urgent. These  
messages require action before they can be removed  
from the DIC display. The following are the possible  
messages that can be displayed and some information  
about them.  
CURB VIEW ACTIVATED  
The CURB VIEW ACTIVATED message is displayed  
when the passenger outside rearview mirror moves into  
the curb view position. See Outside Curb View Assist  
Mirror on page 2-46 for more information.  
DRIVER DOOR AJAR  
If the driver’s door is not fully closed, this message  
will appear on the display and you will hear a chime.  
Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for  
obstacles, and close the door again. Check to see if  
the message still appears on the DIC. Press the select  
button to acknowledge this message and clear it  
from the DIC display.  
BATTERY NOT CHARGING  
If the battery is not charging during operation, this  
message will appear on the DIC. Driving with this  
problem could drain your battery. Have the electrical  
system checked by your GM dealer as soon as possible.  
See Voltmeter Gage on page 3-38. Press the select  
button to acknowledge this message and clear it from  
the DIC display.  
3-53  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
ENGINE COOLANT HOT/ENGINE  
OVERHEATED  
ICE POSSIBLE  
If the outside temperature reaches a level where ice  
could form on the roadway, this message may appear  
on the DIC. If the temperature rises to a safe level,  
the message will clear. Press the select button to  
acknowledge this message and clear it from the  
DIC display.  
If the cooling system temperature gets hot, this message  
will appear in the DIC and you will hear a chime. See  
Engine Overheating on page 5-26 for the proper course  
of action. This message will clear when the coolant  
temperature drops to a safe operating temperature.  
KEY FOB # BATTERY LOW  
Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the engine  
is overheating, severe engine damage may occur.  
If an overheat warning appears on the instrument  
panel cluster and/or DIC, stop the vehicle as soon as  
possible. Do not increase the engine speed above  
normal idling speed. See Engine Overheating  
on page 5-26 for more information.  
If a remote keyless entry transmitter battery is low,  
this message will appear on the DIC. The battery  
needs to be replaced in the transmitter. See “Battery  
Replacement” under Remote Keyless Entry System  
Operation on page 2-6. Press the select button to  
acknowledge this message and clear it from the  
DIC display.  
FUEL LEVEL LOW  
LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR  
If the fuel level is low in the vehicle’s gas tank this  
message will appear on the DIC and you will hear a  
chime. Refuel as soon as possible. Press the select  
button to acknowledge this message and clear it from  
the DIC display. See Low Fuel Warning Light on  
page 3-48, Filling the Tank on page 5-8 and Fuel  
on page 5-5 for more information.  
If the driver’s side rear door is not fully closed this  
message will appear on the display and you will hear a  
chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door  
for obstacles, and close the door again. Check to see  
if the message still appears on the DIC. Press the select  
button to acknowledge this message and clear it from  
the DIC display.  
3-54  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
OIL PRESSURE LOW/STOP ENGINE  
REAR ACCESS OPEN  
If low oil pressure levels occur, this message will  
be displayed on the DIC. Stop the vehicle as soon as  
safely possible and do not operate it until the cause  
of the low oil pressure has been corrected. Check your  
oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced  
by your GM dealer. See Engine Oil on page 5-15.  
If the liftgate or liftglass is open while the ignition is  
in RUN, this message will appear on the DIC and you  
will hear a chime. Turn off the vehicle and check  
the liftgate and liftglass. See Liftgate/Liftglass on  
page 2-13. Restart the vehicle and check for the  
message on the DIC display. Press the select button  
to acknowledge this message and clear it from the  
DIC display.  
Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the engine  
oil pressure is low, severe engine damage may  
occur. If a low oil pressure warning appears on the  
Driver Information Center (DIC), stop the vehicle  
as soon as possible. Do not drive the vehicle until  
the cause of the low oil pressure is corrected.  
See Engine Oil on page 5-15 for more information.  
RIGHT REAR DOOR AJAR  
If the passenger’s side rear door is not fully closed  
this message will appear on the display and you  
will hear a chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check  
the door for obstacles, and close the door again. Check  
to see if the message still appears on the DIC. Press  
the select button to acknowledge this message and clear  
it from the DIC display.  
PASSENGER DOOR AJAR  
If the passenger’s door is not fully closed, this message  
will appear on the display and you will hear a chime.  
Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for  
obstacles, and close the door again. Check to see if  
the message still appears on the DIC. Press the select  
button to acknowledge this message and clear it  
from the DIC display.  
SERVICE AIR BAG  
If there is a problem with the airbag system this  
message will be displayed on the DIC. Have your  
GM dealer inspect the system for problems. See Airbag  
Readiness Light on page 3-35 and Airbag System on  
page 1-52 for more information. Press the select button  
to acknowledge this message and clear it from the  
DIC display.  
3-55  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM  
TURN SIGNAL ON  
If a problem occurs with the brake system this message  
will appear on the DIC. If this message appears, stop  
as soon as possible and turn off the vehicle. Restart the  
vehicle and check for the message on the DIC display.  
If the message is still displayed, or appears again when  
you begin driving, the brake system needs service.  
See your GM dealer.  
If a turn signal is left on for 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), this  
message will appear on the display and you will hear a  
chime. Move the turn signal/multifunction lever to the  
off position. Press the select button to acknowledge this  
message and clear it from the DIC display.  
DIC Vehicle Customization  
TIGHTEN FUEL CAP  
Your vehicle may have customization capabilities that  
allow you to program some features to one setting  
based on your preference. All of the customizable  
options listed may not be available on your vehicle.  
Only the options available will be displayed on  
your Driver Information Center (DIC).  
If the vehicle’s fuel cap is not tightened properly, this  
message may appear on the DIC and a chime will  
sound. Fully reinstall the fuel cap. See Filling the Tank  
on page 5-8. The diagnostic system can determine  
if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed.  
A loose or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate  
into the atmosphere. The DIC message will remain  
on until the message is cancelled with the return button  
on the steering wheel. The DIC message will also be  
cancelled if the ignition is turned off.  
The default settings for the customization features were  
set when your vehicle left the factory, but may have  
been changed from their default state since then.  
To change feature preferences, make sure the ignition  
is on and the vehicle is in PARK (P).  
The DIC message and the Service Engine Soon light  
may come on again during a second trip if the fuel cap  
is still not tightened properly. See Malfunction Indicator  
Lamp on page 3-41 for more information.  
Press the customization button to scroll through the  
available customizable options.  
After pressing the customization button, VEHICLE  
SETTINGS will momentarily display before going to  
a customization option.  
3-56  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
UNLOCK DRIVER: IN PARK: The driver’s door will be  
unlocked when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P).  
Lock Doors  
Press the customization button until LOCK DOORS:  
IN GEAR appears in the display. To select your  
preference for automatic locking, press the select button  
while LOCK DOORS: IN GEAR is displayed on the  
DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through the  
following choices:  
UNLOCK DOORS: KEY OUT: All of the doors  
will unlock when the key is taken out of the ignition.  
UNLOCK DOORS: MANUALLY: The doors will not be  
unlocked automatically.  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to  
select it and move on to the next feature. For more  
information on automatic door locks, see Programmable  
Automatic Door Locks on page 2-10.  
LOCK DOORS: IN GEAR (default): The doors will lock  
when the vehicle is shifted out of PARK (P).  
LOCK DOORS: WITH SPEED: The doors will lock  
when the vehicle speed is above 8 mph (13 km/h) for  
three seconds.  
Lock Feedback  
For more information on automatic door locks, see  
Press the customization button until LOCK FEEDBACK:  
BOTH appears in the display. To select your preference  
for the feedback you receive when locking the vehicle  
with the remote keyless entry transmitter, press the  
select button while LOCK FEEDBACK: BOTH is  
displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select button will  
scroll through the following choices:  
Unlock Doors  
Press the customization button until UNLOCK DOORS:  
IN PARK appears in the display. To select your  
preference for automatic unlocking, press the select  
button while UNLOCK DOORS: IN PARK is displayed  
on the DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through  
the following choices:  
LOCK FEEDBACK: BOTH (default): The parking  
lamps will flash each time you press the button with the  
lock symbol on the remote keyless entry transmitter  
and the horn will chirp the second time you press the  
lock button.  
UNLOCK DOORS: IN PARK (default): All of the doors  
will unlock when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P).  
3-57  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
LOCK FEEDBACK: OFF: There will be no feedback  
when locking the vehicle.  
UNLOCK FEEDBACK: HORN: The horn will chirp  
the second time you press the button with the unlock  
symbol on the remote keyless entry transmitter.  
LOCK FEEDBACK: LAMPS: The parking lamps will  
flash each time you press the button with the lock  
symbol on the remote keyless entry transmitter.  
UNLOCK FEEDBACK: BOTH: The parking lamps will  
flash each time you press the button with the unlock  
symbol on the remote keyless entry transmitter and the  
horn will chirp the second time you press the unlock  
button.  
LOCK FEEDBACK: HORN: The horn will chirp the  
second time you press the button with the lock symbol  
on the remote keyless entry transmitter.  
UNLOCK FEEDBACK: OFF: There will be no feedback  
when unlocking the vehicle.  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC  
to select it and move on to the next feature.  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC  
to select it and move on to the next feature.  
Unlock Feedback  
Press the customization button until UNLOCK  
FEEDBACK: LAMPS appears in the display. To select  
your preference for the feedback you will receive  
when unlocking the vehicle with the remote keyless  
entry transmitter, press the select button while UNLOCK  
FEEDBACK: LAMPS is displayed on the DIC. Pressing  
the select button will scroll through the following  
choices:  
Headlamp Delay  
Press the customization button until HEADLAMP  
DELAY: 10 SEC appears in the display. To select your  
preference for how long the headlamps will stay on  
when you turn off the vehicle, press the select button  
while HEADLAMP DELAY: 10 SEC is displayed on  
the DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through  
the following choices:  
UNLOCK FEEDBACK: LAMPS (default): The parking  
lamps will flash each time you press the button with  
the unlock symbol on the remote keyless entry  
transmitter.  
HEADLAMP DELAY: 10 SEC (default)  
HEADLAMP DELAY: 20 SEC  
HEADLAMP DELAY: 40 SEC  
3-58  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
PERIMETER LIGHTS: OFF: The perimeter lights will  
not come on when you unlock the vehicle with the  
remote keyless entry transmitter.  
HEADLAMP DELAY: 1 MIN  
HEADLAMP DELAY: 2 MIN  
HEADLAMP DELAY: 3 MIN  
HEADLAMP DELAY: OFF  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to  
select it and move on to the next feature.  
The amount of time you choose will be the amount of  
time that the headlamps stay on after you turn off  
the vehicle. If you choose OFF, the headlamps will turn  
off as soon as you turn off the vehicle.  
Easy Exit Seat  
Press the customization button until EASY EXIT SEAT:  
OFF appears in the display. To select your preference  
for seat position exit, press the select button while EASY  
EXIT SEAT: OFF is displayed on the DIC. Pressing  
the select button will scroll through the following choices:  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to  
select it and move on to the next feature.  
Perimeter Lights  
EASY EXIT SEAT: OFF (default): No seat exit recall  
will occur.  
Press the customization button until PERIMETER  
LIGHTS: ON appears in the display. To select your  
preference for perimeter lighting, press the select button  
while PERIMETER LIGHTS: ON is displayed on the  
DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through  
the following choices:  
EASY EXIT SEAT: ON: The driver’s seat will move to  
the exit position when the key is removed from the  
ignition.  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to  
select it and move on to the next feature. For more  
information on seat position exit, see “Easy Exit Seat”  
under Memory Seat on page 2-60.  
PERIMETER LIGHTS: ON (default): The headlamps  
and back-up lamps will come on for 40 seconds, if  
it is dark enough outside, when you unlock the vehicle  
with the remote keyless entry transmitter.  
3-59  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Curb View  
Alarm Warning  
Press the customization button until CURB VIEW: OFF  
appears in the display. To select your preference for  
curb view, press the select button while CURB VIEW:  
OFF is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select button  
will scroll through the following choices:  
Press the customization button until ALARM WARNING:  
BOTH appears in the display. To select your preference  
for alarm warning, press the select button while  
ALARM WARNING: BOTH is displayed on the DIC.  
Pressing the select button will scroll through the  
following choices:  
CURB VIEW: OFF (default): The passenger’s outside  
mirror will not be tilted down when the vehicle is  
shifted into REVERSE (R).  
ALARM WARNING: BOTH (default): The headlamps  
will flash and the horn will chirp when the alarm is  
active.  
CURB VIEW: PASSENGER: The passenger’s outside  
mirror will be tilted down when the vehicle is shifted  
into REVERSE (R).  
ALARM WARNING: HORN: The horn will chirp when  
the alarm is active.  
When the vehicle is placed in PARK (P) or in any  
forward gear, the mirror will return to the normal driving  
position, following a short delay.  
ALARM WARNING: LAMPS: The headlamps will flash  
when the alarm is active.  
ALARM WARNING: OFF: There will be no alarm  
warning on activation.  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to  
select it and move on to the next feature. For more  
information on tilt mirror in reverse, see Outside Curb  
View Assist Mirror on page 2-46.  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while your choice is displayed on  
the DIC to select it and move on to the next feature.  
For more information on alarm warning type, see  
Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-17.  
3-60  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Language  
Units  
To select your preference for display language, press  
the select button while LANGUAGE is displayed on the  
DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through the  
following languages:  
Press the customization button until UNITS appears in  
the display. To select English or metric, press the  
select button while UNITS is displayed on the DIC.  
Pressing the select button will scroll through the  
following choices:  
ENGLISH  
UNITS: U.S. (ENGLISH)  
UNITS: METRIC (km/L)  
UNITS: METRIC (L/100 km)  
FRANCAIS (French)  
ESPANOL (Spanish)  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to  
select it.  
If you choose ENGLISH, all information will be displayed  
in English units. For example, distance will be displayed  
in miles and fuel economy in miles per gallon. If you  
choose METRIC (km/L), distance will be displayed  
in kilometers and fuel economy in kilometers per liter.  
If you choose METRIC (L/100 km), distance will be  
displayed in kilometers and fuel economy in liters per  
100 kilometers.  
If you accidentally choose a language that you do not  
want or understand, press and hold the customization  
button and the trip information button at the same  
time. The DIC will begin scrolling through the languages  
in their particular language. English will be in English,  
Francais will be in French and Espanol will be in  
Spanish. When you see the language that you would  
like, release both buttons. The DIC will then display the  
information in the language you chose.  
Choose one of the available options and press the  
customization button while it is displayed on the DIC to  
select it and exit out of the customizable options.  
You can also scroll through the different languages  
by pressing and holding the trip reset stem for  
four seconds, as long as you are in the odometer mode.  
3-61  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Your vehicle has a feature called Retained Accessory  
Power (RAP). With RAP, the audio system can be  
played even after the ignition is turned off. See Retained  
Accessory Power (RAP) on page 2-21 for more  
information.  
Audio System(s)  
Notice: Before adding any sound equipment to  
your vehicle, such as an audio system, CD player,  
CB radio, mobile telephone, or two-way radio,  
make sure that it can be added by checking with  
your dealer. Also, check federal rules covering  
mobile radio and telephone units. If sound  
Setting the Time  
The radio may have a button marked with an H or HR to  
represent hours and an M or MN to represent minutes.  
equipment can be added, it is very important to do  
it properly. Added sound equipment may interfere  
with the operation of your vehicle’s engine, radio,  
or other systems, and even damage them. Your  
vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation  
of sound equipment that has been added.  
Press and hold the hour button until the correct hour  
appears on the display. AM or PM will appear on  
the display for morning or evening hours. Press and  
hold the minute button until the correct minute appears  
on the display. The time can be set with the ignition  
on or off.  
Notice: The chime signals related to seat belts,  
parking brake, and other functions of your vehicle  
operate through the GM radio/entertainment  
system. If that equipment is replaced or additional  
equipment is added to your vehicle, the chimes may  
not work. Make sure that replacement or additional  
equipment is compatible with your vehicle before  
installing it.  
To synchronize the time with an FM station broadcasting  
Radio Data System (RDS) information, press and  
hold the hour and minute buttons at the same time for  
two seconds until UPDATED and the clock symbol  
appear on the display. If the time is not available from  
the station, NO UPDAT will appear on the display.  
Figure out which audio system is in your vehicle, find  
out what your audio system can do, and how to operate  
all of its controls.  
RDS time is broadcast once a minute. After tuning to an  
RDS broadcast station, it may take a few minutes for  
the time to update.  
3-62  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Radio Data System (RDS)  
Radio with CD (Base Level)  
The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS).  
RDS features are available for use only on FM stations  
that broadcast RDS information.  
With RDS, the radio can do the following:  
Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type  
of programming  
Receive announcements concerning local and  
national emergencies  
Display messages from radio stations  
This system relies upon receiving specific information  
from these stations and will only work when the  
information is available. In rare cases, a radio station  
may broadcast incorrect information that will cause  
the radio features to work improperly. If this happens,  
contact the radio station.  
Base Radio Shown, Bose® Similar  
If your vehicle has the Bose® audio system, your  
vehicle will have six Bose® amplified speakers.  
While the radio is tuned to an RDS station, the station  
name or call letters will appear on the display instead  
of the frequency. RDS stations may also provide  
the time of day, a program type (PTY) for current  
programming, and the name of the program being  
broadcast.  
3-63  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
For XM™ (if equipped), press the INFO knob while in  
XM™ mode to retrieve four different categories of  
information related to the current song or channel:  
Artist, Song Title, Category or PTY, Channel  
Number/Channel Name.  
XM™ Satellite Radio Service  
XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based  
in the 48 contiguous Untied States. XM™ offers  
100 coast-to-coast channels including music, news,  
sports, talk, and children’s programming. XM™ provides  
digital quality audio and text information that includes  
song title and artist name. A service fee is required  
in order to receive the XM™ service. For more  
information, contact XM™ at www.xmradio.com or  
call 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
To change the default on the display, press the INFO  
knob until you see the display you want, then hold  
the knob until you hear a beep. The selected display will  
now be the default.  
AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic  
volume, the audio system will adjust automatically to  
make up for road and wind noise as you drive by  
increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases.  
Playing the Radio  
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system  
on and off.  
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 provide more  
volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds. To turn  
automatic volume off, press this button until AVOL  
OFF appears on the display.  
o VOL p (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or  
to decrease the volume.  
INFO (Information): When the ignition is off, press this  
knob to display the time.  
For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears  
on the display while using RDS. The display options  
are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the  
name of the program (if available).  
3-64  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Finding a Station  
Setting Preset Stations  
Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM,  
six XM1 and six XM2 (if equipped), can be programed  
on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing  
the following steps:  
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2,  
AM, or XM1 or XM2 (if equipped). The display will  
show the selection.  
TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations.  
1. Turn the radio on.  
© SEEK ¨: Press either the SEEK or the TYPE  
arrows to go to the next or to the previous station and  
stay there.  
2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, AM, or XM1  
or XM2.  
3. Tune in the desired station.  
The radio will only seek stations with a strong signal  
that are in the selected band.  
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered  
pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever  
that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station  
that was set will return for that pushbutton.  
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or the  
TYPE arrows for two seconds until SCAN appears  
on the display and you hear a beep. The radio will go to  
a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the  
next station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows  
again to stop scanning.  
5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.  
To store an equalization setting to a preset station  
perform the following:  
1. Tune to the preset station.  
To scan preset stations, press and hold either the  
SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than four seconds.  
PSCN will appear on the display and you will hear a  
double beep. The radio will go to a preset station, play  
for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset  
station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows  
again to stop scanning presets.  
2. Press and release the AUTO EQ button to select  
the equalization setting.  
Once the equalization no longer appears on the  
display, the equalization will be set for that preset  
station.  
The radio will only scan stations with a strong signal  
that are in the selected band.  
3-65  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)  
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)  
AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob until BASS,  
MID (without Bose®), or TREB appears on the display.  
Turn the knob to increase or to decrease. The display will  
show the bass, midrange (without Bose®), or treble level.  
If a station is weak or noisy, decrease the treble.  
To adjust the bass, midrange (without Bose®), or treble to  
the middle position while it is displayed, push and hold  
the AUDIO knob. The radio will produce one beep and  
adjust the display level to the middle position.  
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.  
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 or fade to the middle position  
while it is displayed, push the AUDIO knob, then push it  
again and hold it until the radio produces one beep.  
The balance and fade will be adjusted to the middle  
position and the display will show the speaker balance.  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or  
speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will appear  
on the display, you will hear a beep, and the display level  
will be adjusted to the middle position.  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone  
or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will  
appear on the display, you will hear a beep, and  
the display level will be adjusted to the middle position.  
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button  
to select customized equalization settings designed for  
country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock, and classical.  
Selecting CUSTOM or changing bass or treble, returns  
the EQ to the manual bass and treble settings.  
The radio will save separate AUTO EQ settings for each  
preset and source.  
If the radio is equipped with the Bose audio system, the  
AUTO EQ settings are either CUSTOM or TALK.  
3-66  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SCAN: Scan the stations within a PTY by performing  
the following:  
Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station  
(RDS and XM™)  
1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. TYPE and the last selected PTY will  
appear on the display.  
To select and find a desired PTY perform the following:  
1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. TYPE and a PTY will appear on the  
display.  
2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and hold  
either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows for two  
seconds, and the radio will begin scanning the  
stations in the PTY.  
3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and  
release either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows to  
select and to take you to the PTY’s first station.  
4. Press either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows to stop  
scanning.  
4. To go to another station within that PTY, press the  
TYPE button then, press either the TYPE or the  
SEEK arrows once.  
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency  
allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the  
same program type. To turn alternate frequency on,  
press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF ON will  
appear on the display. The radio may switch to stations  
with a stronger frequency.  
5. Press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows twice to  
exit program type select mode.  
If the radio cannot find the desired program type, NONE  
will appear on the display and the radio will return to  
the last station you were listening to.  
To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND  
again for two seconds. AF OFF will appear on the  
display. The radio will not switch to other stations.  
This function does not apply for XM™ Satellite Radio  
Service.  
3-67  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the  
message will appear every three seconds. To scroll  
through the message, press and release the INFO  
button. A new group of words will appear on the display  
after every press of the button. Once the complete  
message has been displayed, the information symbol  
will disappear from the display until another new  
message is received. The last message can be  
displayed by pressing the INFO button. You can view  
the last message until a new message is received  
or a different station is tuned to.  
Setting Preset PTYs (RDS Only)  
These buttons have factory PTY presets. Up to 12 PTYs  
(six FM1 and six FM2), can be programmed on the  
six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following  
steps:  
1. Press BAND to select FM1 or FM2.  
2. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. TYPE and the last selected PTY will  
appear on the display.  
3. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
Radio Messages  
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered  
pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that  
numbered pushbutton is pressed, during program  
type mode, the PTY that was set will return.  
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has  
been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If  
CAL ERR appears on the display, it means that the radio  
has not been configured properly for the vehicle and  
must be returned to your GM dealer for service.  
5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.  
LOCKED: This message is displayed when the  
THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle  
to your GM dealer for service.  
RDS Messages  
INFO (Information): If the current station has a  
message, the information symbol will appear on the  
display. Press this button to see the message. The  
message may display the artist, song title, call in phone  
numbers, etc.  
If any error occurs repeatedly, or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer.  
3-68  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
XL (Explicit Language  
Channels)  
XL on the radio display,  
after the channel name,  
indicates content with  
explicit language.  
These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a  
customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
Updating  
Updating  
encryption code  
The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and  
no action is required. This process should take no longer  
than 30 seconds.  
No Signal  
Loading XM  
Loss of signal  
The system is functioning correctly, but the vehicle is in a  
location that is blocking the XM signal. When you move into  
an open area, the signal should return.  
Acquiring channel audio  
(after 4 second delay)  
The audio system is acquiring and processing audio and  
text data. No action is needed. This message should  
disappear shortly.  
CH Off Air  
Channel not in service  
This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another  
channel.  
CH Unavail  
Channel no longer  
available  
This previously assigned channel is no longer assigned.  
Tune to another station. If this station was one of the  
presets, choose another station for that preset button.  
No Info  
No Info  
Artist Name/Feature  
not available  
No artist information is available at this time on this channel.  
The system is working properly.  
Song/Program Title  
not available  
No song title information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
3-69  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d)  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
No Info  
Category Name not  
available  
No category information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
No Info  
No Text/Informational  
message available  
No text or informational messages are available at this time  
on this channel. The system is working properly.  
Not Found  
XM Locked  
No channel available for  
the chosen category  
There are no channels available for the selected category.  
The system is working properly.  
Theft lock active  
The XM receiver in the vehicle may have previously been in  
another vehicle. For security purposes, XM receivers cannot  
be swapped between vehicles. If this message is received  
after having your vehicle serviced, check with your GM  
dealer.  
Radio ID  
Radio ID label  
(channel 0)  
If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the  
XM Radio 8 digit radio ID label. This label is needed to  
activate the service.  
Unknown  
Radio ID not known  
(should only be if  
hardware failure)  
If this message is received when tuned to channel 0, there  
may be a receiver fault. Consult with your GM dealer.  
Chk XMRcvr  
Hardware failure  
If this message does not clear within a short period of time,  
the receiver may have a fault. Consult with your GM dealer.  
3-70  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go  
to the beginning of the current track if more than  
eight seconds have played. TRACK and the track  
number will appear on the display. If this pushbutton  
is held or pressed more than once, the player will  
continue moving backward through the CD.  
Playing a CD  
Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up. The  
player will pull it in and the CD should begin playing.  
If you want to insert a CD with the ignition off, first press  
the eject button or the INFO knob.  
If the ignition or radio is turned off with the CD in the  
player, it will stay in the player. When the ignition  
or radio is turned on, the CD will start playing where it  
stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.  
2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next track.  
TRACK and the track number will appear on the  
display. If this pushbutton is held or pressed more than  
once, the player will continue moving forward through  
the CD.  
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol will appear on  
the display. As each new track starts to play, the  
track number will appear on the display.  
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to  
quickly reverse within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at  
six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it  
for more than two seconds to reverse at 17 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to  
play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the track  
will appear on the display.  
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single  
CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the  
smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.  
If playing a CD-R the sound quality may be reduced  
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality  
of the music that has been recorded, and the way the  
CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase  
in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in  
loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try a  
known good CD.  
4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton to  
quickly advance within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to advance at  
six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it  
for more than two seconds to advance at 17 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to  
play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the track  
will appear on the display.  
Do not add paper labels to CDs, they could get caught  
in the CD player.  
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages”  
later in this section.  
3-71  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
6 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to hear the  
tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RDM ON  
will appear on the display. RDM T and the track  
number will appear on the display when each track  
starts to play. Press this pushbutton again to turn  
off random play. RDM OFF will appear on the display.  
CD AUX (Auxiliary): Press this button to play a CD  
when listening to the radio. The inactive CD will remain  
safely inside the radio for future listening.  
Z (Eject): Press this button to eject a CD. Eject may  
be activated with either the ignition or radio off. CDs  
may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this  
button is pressed first.  
© SEEK ¨: Press the left arrow to go to the start  
of the current or to the previous track. Press the  
right arrow to go to the start of the next track. If either  
arrow is pressed more than once, the player will  
continue moving backward or forward through the CD.  
CD Messages  
If the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following  
reasons:  
It is very hot. When the temperature returns to  
normal, the CD should play.  
You are driving on a very rough road. When the  
road becomes smoother, the CD should play.  
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or  
the TYPE arrows for more than two seconds until SCAN  
appears on the display and you hear a beep. The  
radio will go to the next track, play for 10 seconds, then  
go on to the next track. Press either the SCAN or the  
TYPE arrows again, to stop scanning.  
The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.  
The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour  
INFO (Information): Press this knob to see how long  
the current track has been playing. ET and the elapsed  
time will appear on the display. To change the default  
on the display, track or elapsed time, press the  
knob until you see the display you want, then hold the  
knob for two seconds. The radio will produce one  
beep and the selected display will now be the default.  
and try again.  
There may have been a problem while burning  
the CD.  
The label may be caught in the CD player.  
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason,  
try a known good CD.  
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer. If the radio displays  
an error message, write it down and provide it to  
your GM dealer when reporting the problem.  
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when  
a CD is playing. The inactive CD will remain safely  
inside the radio for future listening.  
3-72  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Radio Data System (RDS)  
Radio with CD (MP3)  
The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS).  
RDS features are available for use only on FM stations  
that broadcast RDS information.  
With RDS, the radio can do the following:  
Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type  
of programming  
Receive announcements concerning local and  
national emergencies  
Display messages from radio stations  
Seek to stations with traffic announcements  
This system relies upon receiving specific information  
from these stations and will only work when the  
information is available. In rare cases, a radio station  
may broadcast incorrect information that will cause  
the radio features to work improperly. If this happens,  
contact the radio station.  
Base Radio Shown, Bose® Similar  
If your vehicle has the Bose® audio system, your  
vehicle will have six Bose® amplified speakers.  
While the radio is tuned to an RDS station, the station  
name or call letters will appear on the display instead  
of the frequency. RDS stations may also provide  
the time of day, a program type (PTY) for current  
programming, and the name of the program being  
broadcast.  
3-73  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
For XM™ (if equipped), press the DISPL knob while in  
XM™ mode to retrieve four different categories of  
information related to the current song or channel:  
Artist, Song Title, Category or PTY, Channel  
Number/Channel Name.  
XM™ Satellite Radio Service  
XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based  
in the 48 contiguous United States. XM™ offers  
100 coast-to-coast channels including music, news,  
sports, talk, and children’s programming. XM™ provides  
digital quality audio and text information that includes  
song title and artist name. A service fee is required  
in order to receive the XM™ service. For more  
information, contact XM™ at www.xmradio.com or  
call 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
To change the default on the display, press the DISPL  
knob until you see the display you want, then press  
and hold this knob for two seconds. The radio will  
produce one beep and the selected display will now be  
the default.  
AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic  
volume, the audio system adjusts automatically to make  
up for road and wind noise as you drive.  
Playing the Radio  
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system  
on and off.  
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. To turn  
automatic volume off, press this button until OFF  
appears on the display.  
o VOL p (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or  
to decrease the volume.  
DISPL (Display): When the ignition is turned off, press  
this knob to display the time.  
For RDS, press the DISPL knob to change what  
appears on the display while using RDS. The display  
options are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY,  
and the name of the program (if available).  
3-74  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Finding a Station  
Setting Preset Stations  
Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM,  
six XM1 and six XM2 (if equipped)), can be programmed  
on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the  
following steps:  
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2,  
AM, or XM1 or XM2 (if equipped). The display will  
show the selection.  
o TUNE p: Turn this knob to select radio stations.  
1. Turn the radio on.  
2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, AM, or XM1  
or XM2.  
o SEEK p: Press the right or the left arrow to  
go to the next or to the previous station and stay there.  
3. Tune in the desired station.  
The radio will only seek stations with a strong signal  
that are in the selected band.  
4. Press AUTO EQ to select the equalization.  
5. Press and hold one of the six numbered  
pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that  
numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station  
that was set will return and the equalization that  
was selected will be stored for that pushbutton.  
o SCAN p: Press and hold either arrow for more  
than two seconds. SCAN will appear on the display and  
the radio will produce one beep. The radio will go to  
a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next  
station. Press either arrow again or one of the  
pushbuttons to stop scanning presets.  
6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.  
To scan preset stations, press and hold either arrow for  
more than four seconds. PSCN will appear on the display  
and the radio will produce two beeps. The radio will go to  
a preset station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the  
next preset station. Press either arrow again or one of the  
pushbuttons to stop scanning presets.  
The radio will only scan stations with a strong signal that  
are in the selected band.  
3-75  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)  
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)  
AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob until BASS,  
MID (without Bose®), or TREB appears on the display.  
Turn the knob to increase or to decrease. The  
display will show the bass, midrange (without Bose®),  
or the treble level. If a station is weak or noisy, decrease  
the treble.  
To adjust the bass, midrange (without Bose®), or the  
treble to the middle position while it is displayed,  
push and hold the AUDIO knob. The radio will produce  
one beep.  
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.  
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 or the fade to the middle position  
while it is displayed, push the AUDIO knob, and hold  
it until you hear one beep.  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone  
or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will  
appear on the display and you will hear a beep.  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone  
or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will  
appear on the display and you will hear a beep.  
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button  
to select customized equalization settings designed  
for country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock, and classical.  
To return the bass and treble to the manual mode,  
push and release the AUTO EQ button until CUSTOM  
appears on the display.  
If the radio is equipped with the Bose audio system, the  
equalization settings are either CUSTOM or TALK.  
3-76  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency  
allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the  
same program type. To turn alternate frequency on,  
press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF ON will  
appear on the display. The radio may switch to stations  
with a stronger frequency.  
Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station  
(RDS and XM™)  
To select and find a desired PTY perform the following:  
1. Turn the P-TYPE knob to select a PTY.  
2. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press the  
SEEK TYPE button to select and to take you to the  
PTY’s first station.  
To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND  
again for two seconds. AF OFF will appear on the  
display. The radio will not switch to other stations.  
3. To go to another station within that PTY, press the  
SEEK TYPE button twice to display the PTY and  
then to go to another station.  
This function does not apply for XM™ Satellite Radio  
Service.  
4. Press P-TYPE knob to exit program type  
select mode.  
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 low or  
a CD is playing. If a CD is playing, play will stop during  
the announcement. Alert announcements cannot be  
turned off.  
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.  
If the radio cannot find the desired program type, NONE  
will appear on the display and the radio will return to  
the last station you were listening to.  
ALERT! will not be affected by tests of the emergency  
broadcast system. This feature is not supported by  
all RDS stations.  
3-77  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
INFO (Information): If the current station has a  
message, the information symbol will appear on the  
display. Press this button to see the message. The  
message may display the artist, song title, call in phone  
numbers, etc.  
If the station does not broadcast traffic announcements,  
press the TRAF button and the radio will seek to a  
station that does. When a station that broadcasts  
traffic announcements is found, the radio will stop  
seeking and TRAF will appear on the display.  
If no station is found that broadcasts traffic  
If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the  
message will appear every three seconds. To scroll  
through the message, press and release the INFO  
button. A new group of words will appear on the display  
after every press of this button. Once the complete  
message has been displayed, the information symbol  
will disappear from the display until another new  
message is received. The last message can be  
displayed by pressing the INFO button. You can view  
the last message until a new message is received  
or a different station is tuned to.  
announcements, No Traf will appear on the display.  
If TRAF is on the display, press the TRAF button to turn  
off the traffic announcements.  
The radio will play the traffic announcement if the  
volume is low. The radio will interrupt the play of a CD if  
the last tuned station broadcasts traffic announcements.  
This function does not apply to XM™ Satellite Radio  
Service.  
Radio Messages  
When a message is not available from a station,  
NO INFO will appear on the display.  
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has  
been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If  
CAL ERR appears on the display it means that the radio  
has not been configured properly for your vehicle and  
it must be returned to your GM dealer for service.  
TRAF (Traffic): If TRAF appears on the display,  
the tuned station broadcasts traffic announcements and  
when a traffic announcement comes on the tuned  
radio station you will hear it.  
LOCKED: This message is displayed when the  
THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take your vehicle  
to your GM dealer for service.  
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer.  
3-78  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
XL (Explicit Language  
Channels)  
XL on the radio display,  
after the channel name,  
indicates content with  
explicit language.  
These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a  
customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
Updating  
No Signl  
Loading  
Updating  
encryption code  
The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and  
no action is required. This process should take no longer  
than 30 seconds.  
Loss of signal  
The system is functioning correctly, but the vehicle is in a  
location that is blocking the XM™ signal. When the vehicle  
is moved into an open area, the signal should return.  
Acquiring channel audio  
(after 4 second delay)  
The radio system is acquiring and processing audio and text  
data. No action is needed. This message should disappear  
shortly.  
Off Air  
Channel not in service  
This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another  
channel.  
CH Unavl  
Channel no longer  
available  
This previously assigned channel is no longer assigned.  
Tune to another station. If this station was one of the  
presets, choose another station for that preset button.  
No Info  
No Info  
Artist Name/Feature  
not available  
No artist information is available at this time on this channel.  
The system is working properly.  
Song/Program Title  
not available  
No song title information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
3-79  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d)  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
No Info  
Category Name not  
available  
No category information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
No Info  
No Text/Informational  
message available  
No text or informational messages are available at this time  
on this channel. The system is working properly.  
Not Found  
XM Lock  
No channel available for  
the chosen category  
There are no channels available for the selected category.  
The system is working properly.  
Theft lock active  
The XM™ receiver in your vehicle may have previously  
been in another vehicle. For security purposes, XM™  
receivers cannot be swapped between vehicles. If this  
message is received after having your vehicle serviced,  
check with your GM dealer.  
Radio ID  
Unknown  
Check XM  
Radio ID label  
(channel 0)  
If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the  
XM™ Radio eight digit radio ID label. This label is needed  
to activate the service.  
Radio ID not known  
(should only be if  
hardware failure)  
If this message is received when tuned to channel 0, there  
may be a receiver fault. Consult with your GM dealer.  
Hardware failure  
If this message does not clear within a short period of time,  
the receiver may have a fault. Consult with your GM dealer.  
3-80  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Playing a CD  
1 FLD x (Previous): This pushbutton is inoperable  
when using a non-MP3 CD.  
Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up. The  
player will pull it in, and READING will appear on  
the display. The CD should begin playing. If you want  
to insert a CD with the ignition off, first press the  
eject button or the DISPL knob.  
2 FLD w (Next): This pushbutton is inoperable when  
using a non-MP3 CD.  
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton  
to reverse quickly within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse  
at 10 times the normal playing speed. Press and hold  
it for more than two seconds to reverse at 20 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to  
play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the  
track will appear on the display.  
If the ignition or radio is turned off with a CD in the  
player it will stay in the player. When the ignition or radio  
is turned on, the CD will start to play where it stopped,  
if it was the last selected audio source.  
When the CD is inserted, the CD symbol will appear  
on the display. As each new track starts to play,  
the track number will appear on the display.  
4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton to  
advance quickly within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to advance at  
six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it  
for more than two seconds to advance at 17 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to  
play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the track  
will appear on the display.  
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm)  
single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the  
smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.  
If playing a CD-R the sound quality may be reduced  
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality  
of the music that has been recorded, and the way the  
CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase  
in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty  
in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try  
a known good CD.  
6 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to hear the  
tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RDM ON  
will appear on the display. RDM and the track number  
will appear on the display when each track starts to play.  
Press RDM again to turn off random play. RDM OFF  
will appear on the display.  
Do not add paper labels to CDs, they could get caught  
in the CD player.  
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages”  
later in this section.  
3-81  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
o SEEK p: Press the left arrow to go to the start  
of the current or the previous track. Press the right  
arrow to go to the start of the next track. Pressing  
either arrow for more than two seconds will scan the  
previous or next tracks at five to eight seconds per  
track. SCAN and the track number will appear on the  
display. Press either arrow to stop scanning.  
Using an MP3 CD  
MP3 Format  
This MP3 player will accept MP3 files that were recorded  
on an up to 700 MB CD-R CD. The files can be recorded  
with the following fixed bit rates: 32 kpbs, 40 kpbs,  
56 kpbs, 64 kpbs, 80 kpbs, 96 kpbs, 112 kpbs, 128 kpbs,  
160 kpbs, 192 kpbs, 224 kpbs, 256 kpbs, and 320 kpbs  
or a variable bit rate. Song title, artist name, and album  
will be available when recorded using ID3 tags versions 1  
and 2.  
o TUNE p: Turning the TUNE knob will fast track  
reverse or advance through tracks. The track number  
will appear on the display for each track.  
DISPL (Display): Press this knob to see how long the  
current track has been playing. ET and the elapsed time  
of the track will appear on the display. To change the  
default on the display, track or elapsed time, press this  
knob until you see the display you want, then press and  
hold the knob for two seconds. The radio will produce  
one beep and the selected display will now be the default.  
The player will be able to read and play a maximum of  
50 folders, 50 playlists, 10 sessions, and 255 files. Long  
file, folder, or playlist names or a combination of a large  
number of files and folders or playlists may cause the  
player to be unable to play up to the maximum number  
of files, folders, playlists, or sessions. If you wish to play  
large numbers of files, folders, playlists or sessions  
minimize the length of the file, folder or playlist name.  
You can also play an MP3 CD that was recorded using  
no file folders. The system can support up to 11 folders in  
depth, though, keep the depth of the folders to a minimum  
in order to keep down the complexity and confusion in  
trying to locate a particular folder during playback. If a  
CD contains more than the maximum of 50 folders,  
50 playlists, 10 sessions, and 255 files the player will let  
you access and navigate up to the maximum, but all  
items over the maximum will be ignored.  
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when  
a CD is playing. The inactive CD will remain safely  
inside the radio for future listening.  
CD AUX (Auxiliary): Press this button to play a CD  
when listening to the radio. The CD symbol will appear  
on the display when a CD is loaded.  
Z (Eject): Press this button to eject a CD. Eject  
may be activated with either the ignition or radio off.  
CDs may be loaded with the ignition and radio off if  
this button is pressed first.  
3-82  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Root Directory  
Order of Play  
The root directory will be treated as a folder. If the  
root directory has compressed audio files, the directory  
will be displayed as F1 ROOT. All files contained  
directly under the root directory will be accessed prior  
to any root directory folders. However, playlists (Px)  
will always be accessed before root folders or files.  
Tracks will be played in the following order:  
Play will begin from the first track in the first playlist  
and will continue sequentially through all tracks in  
each playlist. When the last track of the last playlist  
has been played, play will continue from the first  
track of the first playlist.  
Empty Directory or Folder  
If the CD does not contain any playlists, then play  
will begin from the first track under the root  
directory. When all tracks from the root directory  
have been played, play will continue from files  
according to their numerical listing. After playing the  
last track from the last folder, play will begin  
again at the first track of the first folder or root  
directory.  
If a root directory or a folder exists somewhere in the  
file structure that contains only folders/subfolders and no  
compressed files directly beneath them, the player will  
advance to the next folder in the file structure that  
contains compressed audio files and the empty folder  
will not be displayed or numbered.  
No Folder  
When play enters a new folder, the display will not  
automatically show the new folder name unless  
you have chosen the folder mode as the default display.  
See DISPL later in this section for more information.  
The new track name will appear on the display.  
When the CD contains only compressed files, the  
files will be located under the root folder. The next  
and previous folder functions will have no function on  
a CD that was recorded without folders or playlists.  
When displaying the name of the folder the radio will  
display ROOT.  
When the CD contains only playlists and compressed  
audio files, but no folders, all files will be located under  
the root folder. The folder down and the folder up  
buttons will search playlists (Px) first and then go to the  
root folder. When the radio displays the name of the  
folder the radio will display ROOT.  
3-83  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the ignition or radio is turned off with a CD in the  
player it will stay in the player. When the ignition or radio  
is turned on, the CD will start to play where it stopped,  
if it was the last selected audio source.  
File System and Naming  
The song name that will be displayed will be the  
song name that is contained in the ID3 tag. If the  
song name is not present in the ID3 tag, then the  
radio will display the file name without the extension  
(such as .mp3) as the track name.  
As each new track starts to play, the track number will  
appear on the display.  
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm)  
single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the  
smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.  
Track names longer than 32 characters or four pages  
will be shortened. The display will not show parts  
of words on the last page of text and the extension  
of the filename will not be displayed.  
If playing a CD-R the sound quality may be reduced  
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality  
of the music that has been recorded, and the way the  
CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase  
in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in  
loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try a  
known good CD.  
Preprogrammed Playlists  
You can access preprogrammed playlists which  
were created by WinAmp™, MusicMatch™, or Real  
Jukebox™ software, however, you will not have editing  
capability. These playlists will be treated as special  
folders containing compressed audio song files.  
Do not add paper labels to CDs, they could get caught  
in the CD player.  
Playing an MP3  
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages”  
later in this section.  
Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up.  
The player will pull it in, and READING will appear  
on the display. The CD should begin playing and the  
CD symbol will appear on the display. If you want  
to insert a CD with the ignition off, first press the  
eject button or the DISPL knob.  
3-84  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
6 RDM (Random): To random the tracks in the current  
folder or playlist, press and release this pushbutton.  
FLDR RDM will appear on the display. Once all of the  
tracks in the current folder or playlist have been  
played the system will move on to the next folder or  
playlist and play all of the tracks in random order.  
1 FLD x (Previous Folder): Press this pushbutton  
to go to the first track in the previous folder. Pressing  
this button while in folder random mode will take you  
to the first track in the previous folder and random  
the tracks in that folder.  
2 FLD w (Next Folder): Press this pushbutton to  
go to the first track in the next folder. Pressing  
this button while in folder random mode will take you  
to the first track in the next folder and random the  
tracks in that folder.  
To random all the tracks on the CD, press and hold  
this pushbutton for two seconds. You will hear a beep  
and DISC RDM will appear on the display. This  
feature will not work with playlists.  
When in random, pressing and releasing either SEEK  
arrow will take you to the next or previous random track.  
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton  
to reverse quickly within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse  
at 10 times the normal playing speed. Press and hold  
it for more than two seconds to reverse at 20 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to  
play the passage. REV and the elapsed time of the track  
will appear on the display.  
Press and release this pushbutton again to turn off  
random play. NO RDM will appear on the display.  
o SEEK p: Press the left arrow to go to the start  
of the previous track. Press the right arrow to go to the  
start of the next track. Pressing either arrow for more  
than two seconds will search the previous or next tracks  
at two tracks per second. Release the button to stop  
searching and to play the track.  
4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton  
to advance quickly within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to advance at  
10 times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it  
for more than two seconds to advance at 20 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton  
to play the passage. FWD and the elapsed time of the  
track will appear on the display.  
o TUNE p: Turning the TUNE knob will fast track  
reverse or advance through the tracks in all folders  
or playlists. The track number and file name will appear  
on the display for each track. Turning this knob while  
in random will fast track reverse or advance the tracks  
in sequential order.  
3-85  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
DISPL (Display): Press this knob to switch between  
track mode, folder/playlist mode, and time of day mode.  
The display will show only eight characters, but there  
can be up to four pages of text. If there are more  
than eight characters in the song, folder, or playlist  
name, pressing this knob within two seconds will take  
you to the next page of text. If there are no other pages  
to be shown, pressing this knob within two seconds  
will take you to the next display mode.  
INFO (Information): INFO will appear on the display  
whenever a current track has ID3 tag information.  
Press this button to display the artist name and album  
contained in the tag. INFO will disappear from the  
display when the information in the ID3 tag has finished.  
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when  
a CD is playing. The inactive CD will remain safely  
inside the radio for future listening.  
CD AUX (Auxiliary): Press this button to play a CD  
when listening to the radio. The CD symbol will appear  
on the display when a CD is loaded.  
Track mode will display the current track number  
and the ID3 tag song name.  
Folder/playlist mode will display the current folder  
or playlist number and the folder/playlist name.  
Z (Eject): Press this button to eject a CD. Eject  
may be activated with either the ignition or radio off.  
CDs may be loaded with the ignition and radio off if  
this button is pressed first.  
Time of day mode will display the time of day and  
the ID3 tag song name.  
To change the default on the display, press the DISPL  
knob until you see the display you want, then press  
and hold this knob for two seconds. The radio will  
produce one beep and the selected display will now be  
the default.  
3-86  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CD Messages  
Radio with Cassette and CD  
CHECK CD: If this message appears on the display  
and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of the  
following reasons:  
It is very hot. When the temperature returns to  
normal, the CD should play.  
You are driving on a very rough road. When the  
road becomes smoother, the CD should play.  
The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.  
The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour  
and try again.  
The format of the CD may not be compatible.  
See “MP3 Format” earlier in this section.  
Base Radio Shown, Bose® Similar  
There may have been a problem while burning  
the CD.  
If your vehicle has the Bose® audio system, your  
vehicle will have six Bose® amplified speakers.  
The label may be caught in the CD player.  
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason,  
try a known good CD.  
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer. If the radio displays  
an error message, write it down and provide it to  
your GM dealer when reporting the problem.  
3-87  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Radio Data System (RDS)  
XM™ Satellite Radio Service  
The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS).  
RDS features are available for use only on FM stations  
that broadcast RDS information.  
XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based  
in the 48 contiguous United States. XM™ offers  
100 coast-to-coast channels including music, news,  
sports, talk, and children’s programming. XM™ provides  
digital quality audio and text information that includes  
song title and artist name. A service fee is required  
in order to receive the XM™ service. For more  
information, contact XM™ at www.xmradio.com or  
call 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
With RDS, the radio can do the following:  
Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type  
of programming  
Receive announcements concerning local and  
national emergencies  
Playing the Radio  
Display messages from radio stations  
This system relies upon receiving specific information  
from these stations and will only work when the  
information is available. In rare cases, a radio station  
may broadcast incorrect information that will cause  
the radio features to work improperly. If this happens,  
contact the radio station.  
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system  
on and off.  
o VOL p (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or  
to decrease the volume.  
INFO (Information): When the ignition is off, press this  
knob to display the time.  
While the radio is tuned to an RDS station, the station  
name or call letters will appear on the display instead  
of the frequency. RDS stations may also provide  
the time of day, a program type (PTY) for current  
programming, and the name of the program being  
broadcast.  
For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears  
on the display while using RDS. The display options  
are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the  
name of the program (if available).  
3-88  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
For XM™ (if equipped), press the INFO knob while in  
XM™ mode to retrieve four different categories of  
information related to the current song or channel:  
Artist, Song Title, Category or PTY, Channel  
Number/Channel Name.  
Finding a Station  
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2,  
AM, or XM1 or XM2 (if equipped). The display will  
show the selection.  
To change the default on the display, press the  
INFO knob until you see the display you want, then  
hold the knob until the display flashes. The selected  
display will now be the default.  
o TUNE p: Turn this knob to select radio stations.  
© SEEK ¨: Press either the SEEK or the TYPE  
arrows to go to the next or to the previous station and  
stay there.  
AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic  
volume, the audio system will adjust automatically to  
make up for road and wind noise as you drive by  
increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases.  
The radio will only seek stations with a strong signal  
that are in the selected band.  
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or the  
TYPE arrows for two seconds until SCAN appears  
on the display and you hear a beep. The radio will go  
to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to  
the next station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE  
arrows again to stop scanning.  
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 provide  
more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds.  
To turn automatic volume off, press this button until  
AVOL OFF appears on the display.  
To scan preset stations, press and hold either the  
SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than four seconds.  
PSCN will appear on the display and you will hear a  
double beep. The radio will go to a preset station, play  
for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset  
station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows  
again to stop scanning presets.  
The radio will only scan stations with a strong signal  
that are in the selected band.  
3-89  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Setting Preset Stations  
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)  
Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM,  
six XM1 and six XM2 (if equipped)), can be programed  
on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the  
following steps:  
AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob until BASS,  
MID (without Bose®), or TREB appears on the display.  
Turn the knob to increase or to decrease. The  
display will show the bass, midrange (without Bose®),  
or treble level. If a station is weak or noisy, decrease  
the treble.  
To adjust the bass, midrange (without Bose®), or treble  
to the middle position while it is displayed, while it is  
displayed, push and hold the AUDIO knob. The radio will  
produce one beep and adjust the display level to the  
middle position.  
1. Turn the radio on.  
2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, AM, or XM1  
or XM2.  
3. Tune in the desired station.  
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered  
pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever  
that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station  
that was set will return for that pushbutton.  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone  
or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will  
appear on the display, you will hear a beep, and  
the display level will be adjusted to the middle position.  
5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.  
To store an equalization setting to a preset station  
perform the following:  
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button  
to select customized equalization settings designed for  
country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock, and classical.  
Selecting CUSTOM or changing bass or treble, returns  
the EQ to the manual bass and treble settings.  
1. Tune to the preset station.  
2. Press and release the AUTO EQ button to select  
the equalization setting.  
Once the equalization no longer appears on the  
display, the equalization will be set for that preset  
station.  
The radio will save separate AUTO EQ settings for each  
preset and source.  
If the radio is equipped with the Bose® audio system, the  
AUTO EQ settings are either CUSTOM or TALK.  
3-90  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)  
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.  
3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and  
release either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows to  
select and to take you to the PTY’s first station.  
4. To go to another station within that PTY, press the  
TYPE button then, press either the TYPE or the  
SEEK arrows once.  
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.  
5. Press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows twice to  
exit program type select mode.  
To adjust the balance or fade to the middle position while  
it is displayed, push the AUDIO knob, then push it again  
and hold it until the radio produces one beep. The  
balance or fade will be adjusted to the middle position.  
If the radio cannot find the desired program type, NONE  
will appear on the display and the radio will return to  
the last station you were listening to.  
SCAN: Scan the stations within a PTY by performing  
the following:  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or  
speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will appear  
on the display, you will hear a beep, and the display level  
will be adjusted to the middle position.  
1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. TYPE and the last selected PTY will  
appear on the display.  
2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station  
(RDS and XM™)  
3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and hold  
either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows for two  
seconds, and the radio will begin scanning the  
stations in the PTY.  
To select and find a desired PTY perform the following:  
1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. TYPE and a PTY will appear on the  
display.  
4. Press either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows to  
stop scanning.  
3-91  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency  
allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the  
same program type. To turn alternate frequency on,  
press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF ON will  
appear on the display. The radio may switch to stations  
with a stronger frequency.  
RDS Messages  
INFO (Information): If the current station has a  
message, the information symbol will appear on the  
display. Press this button to see the message. The  
message may display the artist, song title, call in phone  
numbers, etc.  
To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND  
again for two seconds. AF OFF will appear on the  
display. The radio will not switch to other stations.  
If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the  
message will appear every three seconds. To scroll  
through the message, press and release the INFO  
button. A new group of words will appear on the display  
after every press of the button. Once the complete  
message has been displayed, the information symbol  
will disappear from the display until another new  
message is received. The last message can be  
displayed by pressing the INFO button. You can view  
the last message until a new message is received  
or a different station is tuned to.  
This function does not apply for XM™ Satellite Radio  
Service.  
Setting Preset PTYs (RDS Only)  
These buttons have factory PTY presets. Up to 12 PTYs  
(six FM1 and six FM2), can be programmed on the  
six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following  
steps:  
1. Press BAND to select FM1 or FM2.  
Radio Messages  
2. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. TYPE and the last selected PTY will  
appear on the display.  
3. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered  
pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that  
numbered pushbutton is pressed, while in PTY  
select mode, the PTY that was set will return.  
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has  
been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If  
CAL ERR appears on the display, it means that the radio  
has not been configured properly for the vehicle and  
must be returned to your GM dealer for service.  
LOCKED: This message is displayed when the  
THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle  
to your GM dealer for service.  
If any error occurs repeatedly, or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer.  
5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.  
3-92  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
XL (Explicit Language  
Channels)  
XL on the radio display,  
after the channel name,  
indicates content with  
explicit language.  
These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a  
customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
Updating  
Updating  
encryption code  
The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and  
no action is required. This process should take no longer  
than 30 seconds.  
No Signal  
Loading XM  
Loss of signal  
The system is functioning correctly, but the vehicle is in a  
location that is blocking the XM™ signal. When you move  
into an open area, the signal should return.  
Acquiring channel audio  
(after 4 second delay)  
The audio system is acquiring and processing audio and  
text data. No action is needed. This message should  
disappear shortly.  
CH Off Air  
Channel not in service  
This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another  
channel.  
CH Unavail  
Channel no longer  
available  
This previously assigned channel is no longer assigned.  
Tune to another station. If this station was one of the  
presets, choose another station for that preset button.  
No Info  
No Info  
Artist Name/Feature  
not available  
No artist information is available at this time on this channel.  
The system is working properly.  
Song/Program Title  
not available  
No song title information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
3-93  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d)  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
No Info  
Category Name  
not available  
No category information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
No Info  
No Text/Informational  
message available  
No text or informational messages are available at this time  
on this channel. The system is working properly.  
Not Found  
XM Locked  
No channel available for  
the chosen category  
There are no channels available for the selected category.  
The system is working properly.  
Theft lock active  
The XM™ receiver in the vehicle may have previously been  
in another vehicle. For security purposes, XM™ receivers  
cannot be swapped between vehicles. If this message is  
received after having your vehicle serviced, check with your  
GM dealer.  
Radio ID  
Radio ID label  
(channel 0)  
If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the  
XM™ Radio eight digit radio ID label. This label is needed  
to activate the service.  
Unknown  
Radio ID not known  
(should only be if  
hardware failure)  
If this message is received when tuned to channel 0, there  
may be a receiver fault. Consult with your GM dealer.  
Chk XMRcvr  
Hardware failure  
If this message does not clear within a short period of time,  
the receiver may have a fault. Consult with your GM dealer.  
3-94  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
1 PREV (Previous): The tape must have at least  
three seconds of silence between each selection for  
previous to work. Press this pushbutton to go to the  
previous selection on the tape if the current selection has  
been playing for less than three seconds. If pressed when  
the current selection has been playing from three to  
13 seconds, it will go to the beginning of the previous  
selection or the beginning of the current selection,  
depending on the position on the tape. If pressed when  
the current selection has been playing for more than  
13 seconds, it will go to the beginning of the current  
selection.  
Playing a Cassette Tape  
The tape player is built to work best with tapes that are  
up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes  
longer than that are so thin they may not work well in  
this player. The longer side with the tape visible should  
face to the right. If you hear nothing or hear a garbled  
sound, the tape may not be in squarely. Press the eject  
button to remove the tape and start over.  
If the ignition and radio are off, the tape can be inserted,  
but will not play until ignition and radio are on. If the  
ignition is on and the radio is off, the tape can be  
inserted and will begin playing.  
SEEK and a negative number will appear on the display  
while the cassette player is in the previous mode.  
Pressing this pushbutton multiple times will increase the  
number of selections to be searched back, up to 9.  
While the tape is playing, use the VOL, AUDIO, and  
SEEK controls just as you do for the radio. The cassette  
tape symbol will appear on the display and an arrow  
showing which side of the tape is playing. The tape  
player will play the other side of the tape when it  
reaches the end.  
2 NEXT: The 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. Pressing this pushbutton multiple times, in next  
mode, will increase the number of selections to be  
searched forward. SEEK and a positive number  
will appear on the display.  
Cassette tape adapter kits for portable CD players will  
work in the cassette tape player. See “CD Adapter Kits”  
later for more information.  
The tape bias is set automatically when a metal or  
chrome tape is inserted.  
3 REV (Reverse): Press this pushbutton to quickly  
reverse the tape. The radio will play while the tape  
reverses. Press it again to return to playing speed.  
The station frequency and REV will appear on the  
display. Select stations during reverse operation by  
using TUNE and SEEK.  
If an error appears on the display, see “Cassette Tape  
Messages” later in this section.  
3-95  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
4 FWD (Forward): Press this pushbutton to quickly  
advance the tape. The radio will play while the  
tape advances. Press this pushbutton again to return to  
playing speed. The station frequency and FWD will  
appear on the display. Select stations during forward  
operation by using TUNE and SEEK.  
TAPE DISC: Press this button to play a cassette tape  
or CD when listening to the radio. The inactive tape  
or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future  
listening.  
Z (Eject): Press this button to eject a tape when it is  
not playing. Eject may be activated with the radio off.  
5 X SIDE: Press this pushbutton to play the other  
side of the tape.  
Cassette Tape Messages  
CHK TAPE (Check Tape): If this message appears on  
the display, the tape will not play due to one of the  
following errors:  
© SEEK ¨: The right arrow is the same as the  
NEXT pushbutton, and the left arrow is the same as the  
PREV pushbutton. If either arrow is pressed more  
than once, the player will continue moving forward or  
backward through the tape. SEEK and a positive  
or negative number will appear on the display.  
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,  
the tape may be damaged and should not be used  
in the player. Try a new tape to make sure your  
player is working properly.  
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or the  
TYPE arrows for more than two seconds until SCAN  
appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio  
will go to the next selection, play for 10 seconds,  
then go on to the next selection. Press either the SCAN  
or the TYPE arrows again, to stop scanning. The  
tape must have at least three seconds of silence  
between each selection for scan to work.  
The tape is broken. Try a new tape.  
The tape is wrapped around the tape head.  
Attempt to get the cassette out. Try a new tape.  
CLEAN: If this message appears on the display, the  
cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still  
play tapes, but it should be cleaned as soon as possible  
to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See Care  
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a  
cassette tape or CD is playing. The inactive tape or  
CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.  
3-96  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the cassette tape is not playing correctly, for any other  
reason, try a known good cassette.  
Playing a CD  
Insert a CD part way into the slot, label side up. The  
player will pull it in and the CD should begin playing.  
If you want to insert a CD with the ignition off, first press  
the eject button or the INFO knob.  
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer. If the radio displays  
an error message, write it down and provide it to  
your GM dealer when reporting the problem.  
If the ignition or radio is turned off with the CD in the  
player, it will stay in the player. When the ignition  
or radio is turned on, the CD will start playing where it  
stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.  
CD Adapter Kits  
It is possible to use a portable CD player with the  
cassette tape player after activating the bypass feature  
on your tape player.  
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol will appear on  
the display. As each new track starts to play, the  
track number will appear on the display.  
To activate the bypass feature, perform the following  
steps:  
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single  
CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the  
smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.  
1. Turn the ignition on.  
2. Turn the radio off.  
If playing a CD-R the sound quality may be reduced  
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality  
of the music that has been recorded, and the way the  
CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase  
in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in  
loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try a  
known good CD.  
3. Press and hold the TAPE DISC button for  
five seconds. READY will appear on the display  
and the tape symbol on the display will flash,  
indicating the feature is active.  
4. Insert the adapter into the cassette tape slot.  
It will power up the radio and begin playing.  
The override feature will remain active until the eject  
button is pressed.  
Do not add paper labels to CDs, they could get caught  
in the CD player.  
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages”  
later in this section.  
3-97  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the  
beginning of the current track if more than eight seconds  
have played. TRACK and the track number will appear on  
the display. If this pushbutton is held or pressed more  
than once, the player will continue moving backward  
through the CD.  
6 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to hear the  
tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RDM ON  
will appear on the display. RDM and the track number  
will appear on the display when each track starts to play.  
Press this pushbutton again to turn off random play.  
RDM OFF will appear on the display.  
2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next track.  
TRACK and the track number will appear on the  
display. If this pushbutton is held or pressed more than  
once, the player will continue moving forward through  
the CD.  
© SEEK ¨: Press the left arrow to go to the start of  
the current or to the previous track. Press the right  
arrow to go to the start of the next track. If either arrow  
is pressed more than once, the player will continue  
moving backward or forward through the CD.  
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton  
to quickly reverse within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at  
six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it  
for more than two seconds to reverse at 17 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to  
play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the  
track will appear on the display.  
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or the  
TYPE arrows for more than two seconds until SCAN  
appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio  
will go to the next track, play for 10 seconds, then go  
on to the next track. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE  
arrows again, to stop scanning.  
INFO (Information): Press this knob to see how long  
the current track has been playing. ET and the elapsed  
time will appear on the display. To change the default  
on the display, track or elapsed time, press the  
knob until you see the display you want, then press and  
hold the knob for two seconds. The radio will produce  
one beep and the selected display will now be the  
default.  
4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton  
to quickly advance within a track. Press and hold this  
pushbutton for less than two seconds to advance at  
six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it  
for more than two seconds to advance at 17 times  
the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to  
play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the  
track will appear on the display.  
3-98  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a  
cassette tape or CD is playing. The inactive tape or CD  
will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.  
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer. If the radio displays  
an error message, write it down and provide it to  
your GM dealer when reporting the problem.  
TAPE DISC: Press this button to play a cassette tape or  
CD when listening to the radio. The inactive tape or  
CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.  
Listening to a DVD  
If your vehicle has the Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE)  
system and a DVD is playing, the DVD symbol will  
appear on the radio display indicating that the DVD is  
available and can be listened to through your vehicle’s  
speakers. To listen to the DVD, press the TAPE  
DISC button until RSE appears on the radio display.  
The current radio source will stop and the DVD sound  
will come through the speakers. To stop listening to  
the DVD, press the TAPE DISC button, if a cassette  
tape or a CD is loaded, or press the BAND button  
to select a different source.  
Z (Eject): Press this button to eject a CD. Eject  
may be activated with either the ignition or radio off.  
CDs may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this  
button is pressed first.  
CD Messages  
If the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following  
reasons:  
It is very hot. When the temperature returns to  
normal, the CD should play.  
When the RSE system is turned off, the DVD symbol  
will go off of the radio display and RSE OFF will appear  
on the radio display. The radio will return to the last  
radio source that you were listening to.  
You are driving on a very rough road. When the  
road becomes smoother, the CD should play.  
The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.  
The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour  
See Rear Seat Entertainment System on page 3-113 for  
more information.  
and try again.  
There may have been a problem while burning  
the CD.  
The label may be caught in the CD player.  
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason,  
try a known good CD.  
3-99  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Radio Data System (RDS)  
Radio with Six-Disc CD  
The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS).  
RDS features are available for use only on FM stations  
that broadcast RDS information.  
With RDS, the radio can do the following:  
Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type  
of programming  
Receive announcements concerning local and  
national emergencies  
Display messages from radio stations  
This system relies upon receiving specific information  
from these stations and will only work when the  
information is available. In rare cases, a radio station  
may broadcast incorrect information that will cause  
the radio features to work improperly. If this happens,  
contact the radio station.  
Base Radio Shown, Bose® Similar  
If your vehicle has the Bose® audio system, your  
vehicle will have six Bose® amplified speakers.  
While the radio is tuned to an RDS station, the station  
name or call letters will appear on the display instead  
of the frequency. RDS stations may also provide  
the time of day, a program type (PTY) for current  
programming, and the name of the program being  
broadcast.  
3-100  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
For XM™ (if equipped), press the INFO knob while in  
XM™ mode to retrieve four different categories of  
information related to the current song or channel:  
Artist, Song Title, Category or PTY, Channel  
Number/Channel Name.  
XM™ Satellite Radio Service  
XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based  
in the 48 contiguous United States. XM™ offers  
100 coast-to-coast channels including music, news,  
sports, talk, and children’s programming. XM™ provides  
digital quality audio and text information that includes  
song title and artist name. A service fee is required  
in order to receive the XM™ service. For more  
information, contact XM™ at www.xmradio.com or  
call 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
To change the default on the display, press the INFO  
knob until you see the display you want, then hold  
the knob until you hear a beep. The selected display will  
now be the default.  
AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic  
volume, the audio system will adjust automatically to  
make up for road and wind noise as you drive by  
increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases.  
Playing the Radio  
PWR (Power): Push this knob to turn the system  
on and off.  
Set the volume at the desired level. Press this button  
to select MIN, MED, or MAX. AUTO VOL will appear  
on the display. Each higher setting will provide  
more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds.  
To turn automatic volume off, press this button until  
AUTO VOL OFF appears on the display.  
o VOLUME p: Turn this knob to increase or to  
decrease the volume.  
INFO (Information): When the ignition is off, press this  
knob to display the time.  
For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears  
on the display while using RDS. The display options  
are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the  
name of the program (if available).  
3-101  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Finding a Station  
Setting Preset Stations  
Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM,  
six XM1 and six XM2 (if equipped)), can be programed  
on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the  
following steps:  
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2,  
AM, or XM1 or XM2 (if equipped). The display will  
show the selection.  
o TUNE p: Turn this knob to select radio stations.  
1. Turn the radio on.  
© SEEK ¨: Press either the SEEK or the TYPE  
arrows to go to the next or to the previous station and  
stay there.  
2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, AM, or XM1  
or XM2.  
3. Tune in the desired station.  
The radio will only seek stations with a strong signal  
that are in the selected band.  
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered  
pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever  
that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station  
that was set will return for that pushbutton.  
© SCAN ¨: Press and hold either the SCAN or  
the TYPE arrows for two seconds until SCN appears  
on the display and you hear a beep. The radio will go  
to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to  
the next station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE  
arrows again to stop scanning.  
5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.  
To store an equalization setting to a preset station  
perform the following:  
1. Tune to the preset station.  
To scan preset stations, press and hold either the  
SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than four seconds.  
PSC will appear on the display and you will hear a  
double beep. The radio will go to a preset station, play  
for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset  
station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows  
again to stop scanning presets.  
2. Press and release the AUTO EQ button to select  
the equalization setting.  
Once the equalization no longer appears on the  
display, the equalization will be set for that preset  
station.  
The radio will only scan stations with a strong signal  
that are in the selected band.  
3-102  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)  
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)  
AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob until  
BASS, MID (without Bose®), or TREB appears on the  
display. Turn the knob to increase or to decrease.  
The display will show the bass, midrange (without  
Bose®), or treble level. If a station is weak or noisy,  
decrease the treble.  
To adjust the bass, midrange (without Bose®), or treble  
to the middle position while it is displayed, push and  
hold the AUDIO knob. The radio will produce one beep  
and adjust the display level to the middle position.  
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.  
To adjust the fade between the front and rear speakers,  
push and release the AUDIO knob until FAD appears  
on the display. Turn the knob to move the sound toward  
the front or the rear speakers.  
To adjust the balance or fade to the middle position  
while it is displayed, push and hold the AUDIO knob.  
The radio will produce one beep and adjust the display  
level to the middle position.  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone  
or speaker controls are displayed. ALL CENTERED  
will appear on the display and you will hear a beep.  
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle  
position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone  
or speaker controls are displayed. ALL CENTERED  
will appear on the display and you will hear a beep.  
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button  
to select customized equalization settings designed  
for country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock, and classical.  
The radio will save separate AUTO EQ settings for  
each preset and source.  
If the radio is equipped with the Bose® audio system,  
the equalization settings are either CUSTOM or TALK.  
3-103  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station  
(RDS and XM™)  
3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and  
hold either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows for  
two seconds, and the radio will begin scanning  
the stations in the PTY.  
To select and find a desired PTY perform the following:  
1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. P-TYPE and the last selected PTY  
will appear on the display.  
4. Press either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows to  
stop scanning.  
2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency  
allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the  
same program type. To turn alternate frequency on,  
press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF ON will  
appear on the display. The radio may switch to stations  
with a stronger frequency.  
3. Once the desired PTY is displayed, press either the  
TYPE or the SEEK arrows to select and to take you  
to the PTY’s first station.  
4. To go to another station within that PTY, press the  
TYPE button then, press either the TYPE or the  
SEEK arrows once.  
To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND  
again for two seconds. AF OFF will appear on the  
display. The radio will not switch to other stations.  
5. Press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows twice to  
exit program type select mode.  
This function does not apply for XM™ Satellite Radio  
Service.  
SCAN: Scan the stations within a PTY by performing  
the following:  
1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. P-TYPE and the last selected PTY  
will appear on the display.  
3-104  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the  
message will appear every three seconds. To scroll  
through the message, press and release the INFO  
button. A new group of words will appear on the display  
after every press of this button. Once the complete  
message has been displayed, INFO will disappear from  
the display until another new message is received.  
The last message can be displayed by pressing  
the INFO button. You can view the last message until a  
new message is received or a different station is  
tuned to.  
Setting Preset PTYs (RDS Only)  
These pushbuttons have factory PTY presets. Up to  
12 PTYs (six FM1 and six FM2), can be programmed  
on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing  
the following steps:  
1. Press BAND to select FM1 or FM2.  
2. Press the TYPE button to activate program type  
select mode. P-TYPE and the last selected PTY  
will appear on the display.  
3. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the  
TYPE button to select a PTY.  
Radio Messages  
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered  
pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that  
numbered pushbutton is pressed, while in PTY  
mode, the PTY that was set will return.  
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has  
been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If  
CAL ERR appears on the display, it means that the radio  
has not been configured properly for the vehicle and  
must be returned to your GM dealer for service.  
5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.  
LOCKED: This message is displayed when the  
THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle  
to your GM dealer for service.  
RDS Messages  
INFO (Information): If the current station has a  
message, INFO will appear on the display. Press this  
button to see the message. The message may display  
the artist, song title, call in phone numbers, etc.  
If any error occurs repeatedly, or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer.  
3-105  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
XL (Explicit Language  
Channels)  
XL on the radio display,  
after the channel name,  
indicates content with  
explicit language.  
These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a  
customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).  
Updating  
Updating  
encryption code  
The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and  
no action is required. This process should take no longer  
than 30 seconds.  
No Signal  
Loading XM  
Loss of signal  
The system is functioning correctly, but the vehicle is in a  
location that is blocking the XM™ signal. When you move  
into an open area, the signal should return.  
Acquiring channel audio  
(after 4 second delay)  
The audio system is acquiring and processing audio and text  
data. No action is needed. This message should disappear  
shortly.  
CH Off Air  
Channel not in service  
This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another  
channel.  
CH Unavail  
Channel no longer  
available  
This previously assigned channel is no longer assigned.  
Tune to another station. If this station was one of the  
presets, choose another station for that preset button.  
No Info  
No Info  
Artist Name/Feature  
not available  
No artist information is available at this time on this channel.  
The system is working properly.  
Song/Program Title  
not available  
No song title information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
3-106  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d)  
Radio Display  
Message  
Condition  
Action Required  
No Info  
Category Name  
not available  
No category information is available at this time on this  
channel. The system is working properly.  
No Info  
No Text/Informational  
message available  
No text or informational messages are available at this time  
on this channel. The system is working properly.  
Not Found  
XM Locked  
No channel available for  
the chosen category  
There are no channels available for the selected category.  
The system is working properly.  
Theft lock active  
The XM™ receiver in the vehicle may have previously been  
in another vehicle. For security purposes, XM™ receivers  
cannot be swapped between vehicles. If this message is  
received after having your vehicle serviced, check with your  
GM dealer.  
Radio ID  
Radio ID label  
(channel 0)  
If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the  
XM™ Radio eight digit radio ID label. This label is needed to  
activate the service.  
Unknown  
Radio ID not known  
(should only be if  
hardware failure)  
If this message is received when tuned to channel 0, there  
may be a receiver fault. Consult with your GM dealer.  
Chk XMRcvr  
Hardware failure  
If this message does not clear within a short period of  
time, your receiver may have a fault. Consult with your  
GM dealer.  
3-107  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
To insert one CD, do the following:  
1. Turn the ignition on.  
2. Press and release the LOAD button.  
3. Wait for the indicator light, located to the right of the  
slot, to turn green.  
Playing a CD  
If the ignition or radio is turned off, with a CD in the  
player, it will stay in the player. When the ignition  
or radio is turned on, the CD will start playing where it  
stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.  
4. Load a CD. Insert the CD part way into the slot,  
label side up. The player will pull the CD in.  
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol 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 button for two seconds.  
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single  
CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the  
smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.  
You will hear a beep and the indicator light, located  
to the right of the slot, will begin to flash and  
MULTI LOAD # will appear on the display.  
If playing a CD-R the sound quality may be reduced  
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality  
of the music that has been recorded, and the way the  
CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase  
in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in  
loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try a  
known good CD.  
3. Once the light stops flashing and turns green,  
INSERT CD # will appear on the display, load  
a CD. Insert the CD part way into the slot, label side  
up. The player will pull the CD in.  
Once the CD is loaded, the indicator light will begin  
flashing again. Once the light stops flashing and  
turns green, you can load another CD. The CD player  
takes up to six CDs. Do not try to load more than six.  
Do not add paper labels to CDs, they could get caught  
in the CD player.  
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages”  
later in this section.  
To load more than one CD but less than six, complete  
Steps 1 through 3. When finished loading CDs,  
press the LOAD button to cancel the loading function.  
The radio will begin to play the last CD loaded.  
LOAD: Press this button to load CDs into the CD  
player. This CD player will hold up to six CDs.  
If more than one CD has been loaded, a number for  
each CD will appear on the display.  
3-108  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the CD is not removed, after 25 seconds, the CD will  
be automatically pulled back into the player. If CD is  
pushed back into the player, before the 25-second time  
period is complete, the player will sense an error  
and will try to eject the CD several times before  
stopping.  
Playing a Specific Loaded CD  
For every CD loaded, a number will appear on the  
display. To play a specific CD, first press the CD AUX  
button, then press the numbered pushbutton that  
corresponds to the CD. A small bar will appear under  
the CD number that is playing and the track number will  
appear on the display.  
Do not repeatedly press the CD eject button to eject a  
CD after you have tried to push it in manually. The  
player’s 25-second eject timer will reset at each press of  
eject, causing the player to not eject the CD until the  
25-second time period has elapsed.  
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages”  
later in this section.  
CD Z (Eject): Press this button to eject CD(s).  
{ REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button to  
reverse quickly within a track. You will hear sound at a  
reduced volume. Release the button to play the  
passage. The elapsed time of the track will appear on  
the display.  
To eject the CD that is currently playing, press and  
release this button.  
To eject multiple CDs, do the following:  
1. Press and hold the CD eject button for two seconds.  
You will hear a beep and the indicator light, located  
to the right of the slot, will begin to flash and  
EJECT ALL will appear on the display.  
FWD | (Forward): Press and hold this button to  
advance quickly within a track. You will hear sound at a  
reduced volume. Release the button to play the  
passage. The elapsed time of the track will appear on  
the display.  
2. Once the light stops flashing, REMOVE CD # will  
appear on the display. The CD will eject and can  
be removed.  
RPT (Repeat): With repeat, one track or an entire CD  
can be repeated.  
Once the CD is removed, the indicator light will  
begin flashing again and another CD will eject.  
To stop ejecting the CDs, press the LOAD or the  
eject button.  
3-109  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
To use repeat, do the following:  
©SEEK ¨: Press the left arrow to go to the start of  
the current track, if more than ten seconds have played.  
Press the right arrow to go to the next track. If either  
arrow is pressed more than once, the player will  
To repeat the track you are listening to, press and  
release the RPT button. RPT will appear on the  
display. Press RPT again to turn off repeat play.  
continue moving backward or forward through the CD.  
To repeat the CD you are listening to, press and  
hold the RPT button for two seconds. RPT will  
appear on the display. Press RPT again to turn off  
repeat play.  
©SCAN ¨: To scan one CD, press and hold  
either SCAN arrow for more than two seconds until  
TRACK 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. Press either  
SCAN arrow again, to stop scanning.  
RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to the  
tracks in random, rather than sequential, order, on one  
CD or on all of the CDs. To use random, do one of  
the following:  
To scan all loaded CDs, press and hold either SCAN  
arrow for more than four seconds until ALL CD  
SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep.  
Use this feature to listen to 10 seconds of the first track  
of each loaded CD. Press either SCAN arrow again,  
to stop scanning.  
To play the tracks on the CD you are listening to in  
random order, press and release the RDM button.  
RANDOM ONE will appear on the display. Press  
RDM again to turn off random play.  
To play the tracks on all of the CDs that are loaded  
in random order, press and hold RDM for more  
than two seconds. You will hear a beep and  
RANDOM ALL will appear on the display. Press  
RDM again to turn off random play.  
INFO (Information): Press this knob to see how long  
the current track has been playing. To change the  
default on the display, track or elapsed time, press the  
knob until you see the display you want, then press  
and hold the knob until you hear a beep. The selected  
display will now be the default.  
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press AUTO EQ  
to select the equalization setting while playing a CD.  
The equalization will be stored whenever a CD is played.  
For more information on AUTO EQ, see “AUTO EQ”  
listed previously in this section.  
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a  
CD is playing. The inactive CD(s) will remain safely  
inside the radio for future listening.  
3-110  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
To play the song list, press the SONG LIST button.  
One beep will be heard and S-LIST will appear on the  
display. The recorded tracks will begin to play in  
the order they were saved.  
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:  
Seek through the song list by using the SEEK or TYPE  
arrows. Seeking past the last saved track will return  
to the first saved track.  
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 delete tracks from the song list, perform the following  
steps:  
2. Check to see that the CD changer is not in song list  
mode. S-LIST should not appear on the display. If  
S-LIST is present, press the SONG LIST button  
to turn it off.  
1. Turn the CD player on.  
2. Press the SONG LIST button to turn song list on.  
S-LIST will appear on the display.  
3. Press either SEEK or TYPE arrow to select the  
desired track to be deleted.  
3. Select the desired CD by pressing the numbered  
pushbutton and then use the SEEK or TYPE right  
arrow to locate the track to be saved. The track will  
begin to play.  
4. Press and hold the SONG LIST button for  
two seconds. When SONG LIST is pressed,  
one beep will be heard immediately. After  
two seconds of continuously pressing the SONG  
LIST button, two beeps will be heard to confirm that  
the track has been deleted.  
4. Press and hold the SONG LIST button to save  
the track into memory. When SONG LIST is  
pressed, one beep will be heard immediately.  
After two seconds of continuously pressing the  
SONG LIST button, two beeps will sound to confirm  
the track has been saved.  
After a track has been deleted, the remaining tracks  
are moved up the list. When another track is added  
to the song list, the track will be added to the end of  
the list.  
5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for saving other selections.  
S-LIST FULL will appear on the display if you try to save  
more than 20 selections.  
3-111  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
To delete the entire song list, perform the following  
steps:  
CD Messages  
CHECK CD: If this message appears on the display  
and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of the  
following reasons:  
1. Turn the CD player on.  
2. Press the SONG LIST button to turn song list on.  
S-LIST will appear on the display.  
It is very hot. When the temperature returns to  
normal, the CD should play.  
3. Press and hold the SONG LIST button for more  
than four seconds. One 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 the  
song list has been deleted.  
You are driving on a very rough road. When the  
road becomes smoother, the CD should play.  
The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.  
The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour  
and try again.  
If a CD is ejected, and the song list contains saved  
tracks from that CD, those tracks are automatically  
deleted from the song list. Any tracks saved to the song  
list again are added to the bottom of the list.  
There may have been a problem while burning  
the CD.  
The label may be caught in the CD player.  
To end song list mode, press the SONG LIST button.  
One beep will be heard and S-LIST will be removed  
from the display.  
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason,  
try a known good CD.  
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be  
corrected, contact your GM dealer. If the radio displays  
an error message, write it down and provide it to  
your GM dealer when reporting the problem.  
3-112  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Listening to a DVD  
Rear Seat Entertainment System  
If your vehicle has the Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE)  
system and a DVD is playing, the DVD symbol will  
appear on the radio display indicating that the DVD is  
available and can be listened to through your vehicle’s  
speakers.  
Your vehicle may have a DVD Rear Seat Entertainment  
(RSE) system. The RSE system includes a DVD  
player, a video display screen, two sets of wireless  
headphones, and a remote control.  
Parental Control  
To listen to the DVD, press the CD AUX button until  
RSE appears on the radio display. The current  
radio source will stop and the DVD sound will come  
through the speakers.  
This button is located behind the video screen. Press  
this button while a DVD or CD is playing to freeze  
the video and mute the audio. The video screen will  
display Parental Control ON and the power indicator  
light on the DVD player will flash. It will also disable all  
other button operations from the remote control and  
the DVD player, with the exception of the eject button.  
Press this button again to restore operation of the  
DVD player.  
To stop listening to the DVD, press the CD AUX button,  
if a CD is loaded, or press the BAND button to select  
a different source.  
When the RSE system is turned off, the DVD symbol  
will go off of the radio display and RSE OFF will appear  
on the radio display. The radio will return to the last  
radio source that you were listening to.  
This button may also be used to turn the DVD player  
power on and automatically resume play if the ignition is  
in RUN, ACCESSORY, or if RAP is active.  
See Rear Seat Entertainment System on page 3-113 for  
more information.  
Before You Drive  
Navigation/Radio System  
The RSE system is for rear seat passengers only.  
The driver cannot safely view the video screen while  
driving and should not try to do so.  
Your vehicle may have a navigation radio system that  
includes Radio Data System (RDS) information and  
XM™ Satellite Radio Service capabilities (if equipped).  
For information on how to use this system, see the  
“Navigation System” manual.  
3-113  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Battery Replacement  
Headphones  
To change the batteries, do the following:  
The RSE system includes two sets of wireless  
headphones.  
1. Loosen the screw on the battery compartment door  
located on the left side of the headphone earpiece.  
Each set of headphones has an ON/OFF control.  
An indicator light will illuminate on the headphones  
when they are on. If the light does not illuminate, the  
batteries may need to be replaced. See “Battery  
Replacement” following for more information.  
2. Replace the two AAA batteries in the compartment.  
Make sure that they are installed correctly, using  
the diagram on the inside of the battery  
compartment.  
Each set of headphones has a volume knob. To adjust  
the volume, adjust this knob.  
3. Tighten the screw to close the compartment door.  
If the headphones are to be stored for a long period  
of time, remove the batteries and keep them in a cool,  
dry place.  
The transmitters are located below the video display  
screen. The headphones will shut off automatically  
if they lose the signal from the system after about  
four minutes to save battery power. The signal may  
be lost if the system is turned off or if the headphones  
are out of range of the transmitters.  
Stereo RCA Jacks  
The RCA jacks are located behind the video screen.  
The RCA jacks allow audio and video signals to  
be connected from an auxiliary device such as a  
camcorder or a video game unit to the RSE system.  
Standard RCA cables, not included, are needed  
to connect the auxiliary device to the RCA jacks.  
The yellow connector inputs video and the red and  
white connectors input right and left audio. Refer to the  
manufacturer’s instructions for proper connection of  
the auxiliary device.  
When using the wired headphones, if the front seat  
passengers play a CD in the Radio with Six-Disc CD  
(if equipped) or use XM™ Satellite Radio Service  
(if equipped), you will hear the audio for these sources,  
instead of the DVD or CD that is currently playing  
through the RSE.  
Notice: Do not store the headphones in heat or  
direct sunlight. This could damage the headphones  
and repairs would not be covered by your warranty.  
Keep the headphones stored in a cool, dry place.  
3-114  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
To use the auxiliary inputs on the RSE system, connect  
an external auxiliary device to the color-coded RCA  
jacks and turn both the auxiliary device and the  
RSE system power on. If the RSE system had been  
previously in the DVD player mode, pressing the SRCE  
button on the faceplate or the remote control will  
switch the RSE system between the auxiliary device  
and the DVD player.  
Audio Output  
Audio from the DVD player or auxiliary inputs may be  
heard through the following possible sources:  
Wireless Headphones  
Vehicle Speakers  
Vehicle wired headphone jacks on the Rear Seat  
Audio system (if equipped)  
How to Change the Video Format when in  
the Auxiliary Mode  
The RSE system will always transmit the audio signal  
by infrared to the wireless headphones, if there is audio  
available. See “Headphones” previously for more  
information.  
The auxiliary input video format is preset to NTSC.  
In some countries, the video format may be in the  
PAL system. To change the video format, perform the  
following:  
The RSE system is capable of outputting audio to  
the vehicle speakers by using the radio. The RSE  
system may be selected as an audio source on the radio  
if the RSE system power is on. Once the RSE system  
is selected as an audio source on the radio, adjust  
the speaker volume on the radio, if necessary. If the  
RSE system power is not on, the RSE system will not be  
an available source on the radio. Refer to the radio  
information for the radio that your vehicle has for more  
information.  
1. Press the display menu button.  
2. Press the down arrow button to highlight the  
Video Format option.  
3. Press the enter button to select Video Format.  
4. Press the right or left arrow button to select  
the desired video format.  
5. Press the enter button to accept the change.  
The RSE system is capable of outputting audio to the  
wired headphone jacks on the rear seat audio system  
(if equipped). The RSE system may be selected as  
an audio source on the rear seat audio system if  
the RSE system power is on. Refer to Rear Seat  
Audio (RSA) on page 3-124 for more information.  
3-115  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The DVD player power may be turned on when the  
ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or when Retained  
Accessory Power (RAP) is active.  
Video Screen  
The video screen is located in the overhead console.  
To use the video screen, push forward on the release  
latch and the screen will fold down. Adjust the screen’s  
position as desired. When the video screen is not in  
use, push it up into its latched position.  
The RSE system DVD player is only compatible with  
DVDs of the appropriate region code for the country that  
the vehicle was sold in. The DVD region code is  
printed on the jacket of most DVDs.  
The DVD player and display will continue to operate  
when the screen is in the up or the down position. The  
video screen contains the transmitters for the wireless  
headphones and the remote control. If the screen  
is in the closed position, the signals will not be available  
for the operation of the headphones or the remote  
control.  
Standard audio CDs, CD-R, CD-RW, Video CD and  
Photo CD/CD-R media are fully supported by this DVD  
player. DVD-R and DVD-RW media is supported if  
formatted as DVD-Video. DVD+R and DVD+RW media  
may or may not be supported by the DVD player.  
The DVD player does not support DVD-RAM,  
DVD-ROM, and DVD Audio media. An error message  
will appear on the display if this type of media is inserted  
into the DVD player.  
Notice: Directly touching the video screen may  
damage it. Do not touch the screen. See “Cleaning  
the Video Screen” later in this section for more  
information.  
When using the wired headphones, not included, if the  
front seat passengers play a CD in the Radio with  
Six-Disc CD (if equipped) or use XM™ Satellite Radio  
Service (if equipped), you will hear the audio for  
these sources, instead of the DVD or CD that is currently  
playing through the RSE.  
DVD Player  
The DVD player is located in the overhead console.  
The DVD player can be controlled by the buttons on  
the DVD player and/or by the buttons on the remote  
control. See “Remote Control” later in this section  
for more information.  
If an error message appears on the video screen, see  
“DVD Messages” later in this section.  
3-116  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
y (Main DVD Menu): Press this button to access  
the DVD menu. The DVD menu is different on every  
DVD. Use the up, down, left, and right arrow buttons to  
move the cursor around the DVD menu. After making  
a selection press the enter button. This button only  
operates when playing a DVD.  
z (Set-up Menu): Press this button to adjust the  
color, tint, brightness, contrast, display mode, and  
dynamic range compression. The dynamic range  
compression feature can be used to reduce loud audio  
and increase low audio produced by some DVDs.  
DVD Player Buttons  
To change a feature back to the factory default setting,  
press this button to display the feature, then press  
and hold this button. The default setting will appear on  
the display.  
O(Power): Press this button to turn the RSE system  
on and off. The power indicator light will illuminate  
when the power is on.  
While playing an Audio or DVD disc, press and hold this  
button to display and to remove the track and time  
information.  
X (Eject): Press this button to eject a DVD or CD.  
SRCE (Source): Press this button to switch between  
the DVD player and an auxiliary source.  
n, q, p, o (Menu Navigation Arrows): Use the  
c(Stop): Press this button to stop playing, rewinding,  
or fast forwarding a DVD or CD. Press this button  
twice to return to the beginning of the DVD.  
arrow buttons to navigate through a menu.  
r (Enter): Press this button to select the choices  
that are highlighted in any menu.  
s (Play/Pause): Press this button to start play of a  
DVD or CD. Press this button while a DVD or CD is  
playing to pause it. Press this button again to continue  
the play of the DVD or CD.  
3-117  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Playing a Disc  
Ejecting a Disc  
To play a disc, gently insert the disc with the label side  
up into the loading slot. The DVD player will continue  
loading the disc and the player will automatically start,  
if the vehicle is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or when  
RAP is active.  
Press the eject button on the DVD player faceplate to  
eject the disc. There is not an eject button on the remote  
control.  
If a disc is ejected from the player, but is not removed,  
the DVD player will reload the disc after a short  
period of time. The disc will be stored in the DVD player.  
The DVD player will not resume play of the disc  
automatically.  
If a disc is already in the player, press the play/pause  
button on the DVD player faceplate or on the remote  
control.  
Some DVDs will not allow fast forwarding or skipping  
of the copyright information or the previews. Some  
DVDs will begin playing after the previews have finished.  
If the DVD does not begin to play the main title, refer  
to the on-screen instructions.  
Remote Control  
To use the remote control, aim it at the transmitter  
window below the video screen and press the desired  
button. Direct sunlight or very bright light may affect the  
ability of the RSE system to receive signals from the  
remote control. If the remote control does not seem to  
be working, the batteries may need to be replaced.  
See “Battery Replacement” later in this section.  
Stopping and Resuming Playback  
To stop playing a disc, press and release the stop  
button on the DVD player faceplate or the remote  
control.  
Objects blocking the line of sight may also affect the  
function of the remote control.  
To resume playback, press the play/pause button  
on the DVD player faceplate or the remote control. The  
movie should resume play from where it was last  
stopped, if the disc has not been ejected and the stop  
button has not been pressed twice. If the disc has been  
ejected or if the stop button has been pressed twice,  
the disc will resume play at the beginning.  
Notice: Storing the remote control in a hot area or  
in direct sunlight may damage it, and the repairs  
would not be covered by your warranty. Keep  
the remote control stored in a cool, dry place.  
To extend the life of the batteries, the remote control  
does not have a press and hold feature.  
3-118  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Remote Control Buttons  
z (Set-up Menu): Press this button to adjust the  
color, tint, brightness, contrast, display mode, and  
dynamic range compression. The dynamic range  
compression feature can be used to reduce loud audio  
and increase low audio produced by some DVDs.  
e (Audio): Press this button to display a menu that  
will only appear when a DVD is being played. The format  
and content of this function will vary for each disc.  
r (Fast Reverse): Press this button to fast reverse  
the DVD or CD. To stop fast reversing, press this button  
again. This button may not work when the DVD is  
playing the copyright information or the previews.  
SRCE (Source): Press this button to switch between  
the DVD player and an auxiliary source.  
O (Power): Press this button to turn the DVD player  
c (Stop): Press this button to stop playing, rewinding,  
or fast forwarding a DVD or CD. Press this button  
twice to return to the beginning of the DVD.  
on and off.  
v (Title): Press this button to return the DVD to the  
main menu of the DVD.  
t (Previous Track/Chapter): Press this button to  
return to the start of the current track or chapter. Press  
this button again to return to the previous track or  
chapter. This button may not work when the DVD is  
playing the copyright information or the previews.  
n, q, p, o (Menu Navigation Arrows): Use the  
arrow buttons to navigate through a menu.  
3-119  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
1 through 0 (Numeric Keypad): The numeric keypad  
provides you with the capability of direct chapter,  
title, and track number selection.  
| (Camera Angle): Press this button to change  
camera angles on DVDs that have this feature when a  
DVD is playing. The format and content of this  
function will vary for each disc.  
}10 (Double Digit Entries): Press this button to  
select chapter, title, and track numbers greater than 9.  
Press this button before inputting the number.  
{ (Subtitle): Press this button to turn on subtitles  
and to move through subtitle options when a DVD  
is playing. The format and content of this function will  
vary for each disc.  
\ (Clear): Press this button within three seconds after  
inputting a number to clear the number(s).  
[ (Fast Forward): Press this button to fast forward  
the DVD or CD. To stop fast forwarding, press this  
button again. This button may not work when the DVD  
is playing the copyright information or the previews.  
P (Illumination): Press this button to turn the remote  
control backlight on. The backlight will time out after  
about 7 to 10 seconds if no other button is pressed while  
the backlight is on.  
s (Play/Pause): Press this button to start play of a  
DVD or CD. Press this button while a DVD or CD is  
playing to pause it. Press this button again to continue  
the play of the DVD or CD.  
y (Main DVD Menu): Press this button to access the  
DVD menu. The DVD menu is different on every  
DVD. Use the up, down, left, and right arrow buttons to  
move the cursor around the DVD menu. After making  
a selection press the enter button. This button only  
operates when playing a DVD.  
When the DVD is playing, press the pause button then  
press the fast forward button. The DVD will continue  
playing in a slow play mode. To cancel slow play mode,  
press the play/pause button.  
r (Enter): Press this button to select the choices  
that are highlighted in any menu.  
u (Next Track/Chapter): Press this button to advance  
to the beginning of the next track or chapter. This  
button may not work when the DVD is playing the  
copyright information or the previews.  
q (Return): Press this button to exit the current  
active menu and return to the previous menu. This  
button will operate only when a DVD is playing and a  
menu is active.  
3-120  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Battery Replacement  
Problem  
No power.  
Recommended Action  
The ignition might not be  
in on or accessory.  
To change the batteries, do the following:  
1. Remove the battery compartment door located on  
the bottom of the remote control.  
The parental control  
button might have been  
turned on. The power  
indicator light will flash.  
2. Replace the two AA batteries in the compartment.  
Make sure that they are installed correctly, using  
the diagram on the inside of the battery  
compartment.  
Disc will not play.  
The system might be off.  
The parental control  
button might have been  
turned on. The power  
indicator light will flash.  
The system might be in  
auxiliary mode.  
3. Close the battery door securely.  
If the remote control is to be stored for a long period of  
time, remove the batteries and keep them in a cool,  
dry place.  
The disc is upside down  
or is not compatible.  
The picture does not  
fill the screen. There  
are black borders on  
the top and bottom or  
on both sides or it looks  
stretched out.  
Check the display mode  
settings in the  
display menu.  
The disc was ejected,  
but it was pulled back  
into the DVD player.  
The disc is being stored in  
the DVD player. Press the  
eject button again to eject  
the disc.  
3-121  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Problem  
Recommended Action  
Problem  
Recommended Action  
In auxiliary mode, the  
Check the auxiliary input  
connections at both  
devices.  
Change the Video Format  
to PAL or NTSC. See  
“Stereo RCA Jacks”  
previously for how to  
change the video format.  
Check the audio or  
language selection in  
the main DVD menu.  
Check to make sure there  
is no obstruction between  
the remote control and the  
transmitter window.  
After stopping the  
player, I push Play but  
sometimes the DVD  
starts where I left off  
and sometimes at the  
beginning.  
If the stop button was  
pressed one time, the  
DVD player will resume  
playing where the DVD  
was stopped. If the stop  
button was pressed two  
times the DVD player will  
begin to play from the  
beginning of the DVD.  
Check that the DVD  
player is in the auxiliary  
source mode.  
Check the auxiliary input  
connections at both  
devices.  
picture moves or scrolls.  
The language in the  
audio or on the screen  
is wrong.  
The remote control  
does not work.  
The auxiliary source is  
running but there is no  
picture or sound.  
My disc is stuck in the  
player. The Load/Eject  
button does not work.  
Turn the DVD power off,  
then on, then press the  
load/eject button on the  
DVD player.  
Check the batteries to  
make sure they are not  
dead or installed  
incorrectly.  
Do not attempt to forcibly  
remove the disc from the  
DVD player. This could  
permanently damage the  
disc and DVD player.  
The parental control  
button might have been  
turned on. The power  
indicator light will flash.  
3-122  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
DVD Messages  
Problem  
Recommended Action  
Sometimes the wireless  
headphone audio cuts  
out or buzzes.  
Check for obstructions,  
low batteries, reception  
range, and interference  
from cellular telephone  
towers or by using your  
cellular telephone in the  
vehicle.  
Check that the  
headphones are facing  
the front of the vehicle.  
The following errors may be displayed on the video  
screen:  
Disc Format Error: This message will be displayed if a  
disc is inserted upside down, if the disc is not readable,  
or if the format is not compatible with the DVD player.  
Load/Eject Error: This message will be displayed if the  
disc is not properly loaded or ejected.  
Disc Play Error: This message will be displayed if the  
DVD player cannot play the disc. Scratched or  
damaged discs will cause this error.  
I lost the remote and/or  
the headphones.  
See your dealer for  
assistance.  
The DVD is playing,  
but there is no picture  
or sound.  
The audio/video skips  
or jumps.  
Check that the DVD  
Region Code Error: This message will be displayed if  
the region code of the DVD is not compatible with  
the region code of the DVD player.  
player is in DVD mode.  
The DVD or CD could  
be dirty, scratched, or  
damaged.  
The RSE is working  
correctly.  
No Disc: This message will be displayed if any of the  
buttons on the DVD faceplate or remote control are  
pressed and no disc is present in the DVD player.  
The audio from the  
radio for the Radio with  
Six-Disc CD and XM™  
has taken over the audio  
from the DVD or CD  
when using the wired  
headphones.  
DVD Distortion  
Use the wireless  
headphones or have the  
front seat passengers  
listen to another audio  
source.  
There may be an experience with audio distortion in the  
wireless headphones when operating cellular phones,  
scanners, CB radios, Global Positioning Systems (GPS)*,  
two-way radios, mobile fax, or walkie talkies.  
It may be necessary to turn off the DVD player when  
operating one of these devices in or near the vehicle.  
* Excludes the OnStar® System.  
3-123  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Cleaning the Video Screen  
Pour some isopropyl or rubbing alcohol on a clean  
cloth and gently wipe the video screen. Do not spray  
directly onto the screen and do not press too hard or  
too long on the video screen.  
Rear Seat Audio (RSA)  
This feature allows rear seat passengers to listen to any  
of the sources: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, or DVDs.  
However, the rear seat passengers can only control  
the sources that the front seat passengers are not  
listening to. For example, rear seat passengers may  
listen to and control cassette tapes, CDs, or DVDs  
through the headphones while the driver listens to  
the radio through the front speakers. The rear seat  
passengers have control of the volume for each set  
of headphones.  
Envoy/Envoy Denali shown, Envoy XL/Envoy XL  
Denali similar  
P (Power): Press this button to turn the system on or  
off. The rear speakers will be muted when the power  
is turned on.  
u (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or to  
decrease the volume. The left volume knob controls the  
left headphones and the right volume knob controls  
the right headphones.  
The front seat audio controls always have priority  
over the RSA controls. If the front seat passengers  
switch the source for the main radio to a remote source,  
the RSA will not be able to control the source. You  
can operate the rear seat audio when the main radio  
is off.  
SRCE (Source): Press this button to select a source:  
radio, cassette tape, CD, or DVD. The inactive tape, CD,  
or DVD will remain safely inside the radio for future  
listening.  
3-124  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
SEEK: Press this button to advance to the next station  
or track and stay there. The display will show the  
selection. This function is inactive if the front seat  
passengers are listening to the same audio source.  
Theft-Deterrent Feature  
THEFTLOCK® is designed to discourage theft of your  
vehicle’s 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 LOCKED will appear on the display.  
To scan preset stations, press and hold the SEEK button  
for two seconds and the radio will advance to the  
next preset station. If you continue to hold the button  
down, the radio will continue to advance through  
the available preset stations. The display will show the  
selections. This function is inactive if the front seat  
passengers are listing to the radio.  
When the radio and vehicle are turned off, the blinking  
red light indicates that THEFTLOCK® is armed.  
With THEFTLOCK® activated, the radio will not operate  
if stolen.  
When a cassette tape is playing, press the SEEK button  
to go to the next selection on the tape. Press and  
hold the SEEK button to go to the other side of the tape.  
This function is inactive if the front seat passengers  
are listening to a cassette tape.  
When a CD is playing, press the SEEK button to go  
to the next track on the CD. This function is inactive if  
the front seat passengers are listening to a CD.  
When a CD is playing in the six-disc CD player, press  
and hold the SEEK button for 2 seconds to go you to  
the next CD, if multiple CDs are loaded. This function  
is inactive if the front seat passengers are listening  
to a CD.  
3-125  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
PROG (Program): Press this button to play a station  
you have programmed on the radio preset pushbuttons.  
The radio will only seek preset stations with a strong  
signal that are in the selected band.  
Audio Steering Wheel Controls  
When a CD is playing in the CD changer, press this  
button to go to the next available CD, if multiple CDs are  
loaded.  
Q SOURCE R: Press this button to switch between  
FM1, FM2, AM, or XM1 or XM2 (if equipped), or a  
CD. If a CD is loaded the CD symbol will appear on the  
display.  
Q SEEK R: Press the up or the down arrow to go  
to the next or to the previous radio station and stay  
there. The radio will only seek stations with a strong  
signal that are in the selected band.  
If your vehicle has this feature, some audio functions  
can be adjusted at the steering wheel. They include the  
following:  
g (OnStar/Voice Recognition): If your vehicle has  
OnStar®, press this button to interact with the OnStar®  
system. See the OnStar® manual provided with your  
vehicle for more information.  
If your vehicle does not have OnStar®, press this button  
to silence the system. Press it again, or any other  
radio button, to turn on the sound.  
When a CD is playing, press the up or the down arrow  
to fast forward or reverse.  
Q VOL R (Volume): Press the up or the down arrow  
to increase or to decrease the volume.  
3-126  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Radio Reception  
AM  
Care of the Cassette Tape Player  
A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause  
reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes, or a damaged  
mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their  
cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight, and  
extreme heat. If they are not, they may not operate  
properly or may cause failure of the tape player.  
The range for most AM stations is greater than for  
FM, especially at night. The longer range can cause  
station frequencies to interfere with each other.  
Static can occur on AM stations caused by things  
like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble  
to reduce this noise.  
The tape player should be cleaned regularly after every  
50 hours of use. The radio may display CLEAN to  
indicate that the tape player has been used for 50 hours  
without resetting the tape clean timer. If this message  
appears on the display, the cassette tape player  
needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but it should  
be cleaned as soon as possible to prevent damage  
to the tapes and player. If there is a reduction in sound  
quality, try a known good cassette to see if the tape  
or the tape player is at fault. If this other cassette has no  
improvement in sound quality, clean the tape player.  
FM Stereo  
FM stereo will give the best sound, but FM signals  
will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km).  
Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals,  
causing the sound to fade in and out.  
XM™ Satellite Radio Service  
XM™ Satellite Radio Service gives digital radio  
reception from coast to coast. Just as with FM, tall  
buildings or hills can interfere with satellite radio signals,  
causing the sound to fade in and out. The radio may  
display NO SIGNAL to indicate interference.  
For best results, use a scrubbing action, non-abrasive  
cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape  
head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. The  
recommended cleaning cassette is available through  
your dealer.  
3-127  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The broken tape detection feature of the cassette  
tape player may identify the cleaning cassette as a  
damaged tape, in error. To prevent the cleaning cassette  
from being ejected, use the following steps:  
Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality  
may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette  
tape is in good condition before the tape player is  
serviced.  
1. Turn the ignition on.  
2. Turn the radio off.  
Care of Your CDs and DVDs  
3. Press and hold the TAPE CD button for  
five seconds. READY will appear on the display  
and a cassette symbol will flash for five seconds.  
Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases  
or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight  
and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen  
a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution  
and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.  
4. Insert the scrubbing action cleaning cassette.  
5. Eject the cleaning cassette after the manufacturer’s  
recommended cleaning time.  
Be sure never to touch the side without writing when  
handling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer  
edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge.  
After the cleaning cassette is ejected, the broken  
tape detection feature will be active again.  
A non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses  
a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head can  
be used. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject  
on its own. A non-scrubbing action cleaner may  
not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner.  
The use of a non-scrubbing action, dry-type cleaning  
cassette is not recommended.  
Care of the CD and DVD Player  
The use of CD lens cleaners for CDs is not advised,  
due to the risk of contaminating the lens of the CD optics  
with lubricants internal to the CD mechanism.  
After the player is cleaned, press and hold the EJT  
button for five seconds to reset the CLEAN indicator.  
The radio will display CLEANED to show the indicator  
was reset.  
3-128  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Fixed Mast Antenna  
Chime Level Adjustment  
The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes  
without being damaged. If the mast should ever  
become slightly bent, straighten it out by hand. If the  
mast is badly bent, replace it.  
The radio is the vehicle’s chime producer. To change  
the volume level, press and hold pushbutton 6 with  
the ignition on and the radio power off. The chime  
volume level will change from the normal level to  
loud, and LOUD will appear on the radio display.  
To change back to the default or normal setting, press  
and hold pushbutton 6 again. The chime level will  
change from the loud level to normal, and NORMAL will  
appear on the radio display. Removing the radio and  
not replacing it with a factory radio or chime will disable  
vehicle chimes.  
Check occasionally to make sure the mast is still  
tightened to the fender. If tightening is required, tighten  
by hand, then with a wrench one quarter turn.  
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna  
System  
The XM™ Satellite Radio antenna is located on the roof  
of your vehicle. Keep this antenna clear of snow and  
ice build up for clear radio reception.  
The performance of the XM™ system may be affected if  
the sunroof is open.  
Loading items onto the roof of your vehicle can interfere  
with the performance of the XM™ system. Make sure  
that the XM™ satellite antenna is not obstructed.  
3-129  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
NOTES  
3-130  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Section 4  
Driving Your Vehicle  
4-1  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
proper defensive driving more difficult and can even  
cause a collision, with resulting injury. Ask a passenger to  
help do things like this, or pull off the road in a safe place  
to do them yourself. These simple defensive driving  
techniques could save your life.  
Your Driving, the Road, and  
Your Vehicle  
Defensive Driving  
Drunken Driving  
The best advice anyone can give about driving is:  
Drive defensively.  
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.  
Please start with a very important safety device in your  
vehicle: Buckle up. See Safety Belts: They Are for  
Everyone on page 1-12.  
Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.”  
On city streets, rural roads, or freeways, it means  
“always expect the unexpected.”  
Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive  
a vehicle:  
Judgment  
Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to  
be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what  
they might do. Be ready for their mistakes.  
Muscular Coordination  
Vision  
Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of  
accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough following  
distance. It is the best defensive driving maneuver, in  
both city and rural driving. You never know when  
the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or  
turn suddenly.  
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. In recent years, more than  
16,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been  
associated with the use of alcohol, with more than  
300,000 people injured.  
Defensive driving requires that a driver concentrate on  
the driving task. Anything that distracts from the driving  
task — such as concentrating on a cellular telephone call,  
reading, or reaching for something on the floor — makes  
4-2  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Many adults — by some estimates, nearly half the adult  
population — choose never to drink alcohol, so they  
never drive after drinking. For persons under 21,  
it is against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol.  
There are good medical, psychological and  
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.  
developmental reasons for these laws.  
The obvious way to eliminate the leading highway  
safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and  
then drive. But what if people do? How much is “too  
much” if someone plans to drive? It is a lot less  
than many might think. Although it depends on each  
person and situation, here is some general information  
on the problem.  
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone  
who is drinking depends upon four things:  
The amount of alcohol consumed  
The drinker’s body weight  
The amount of food that is consumed before and  
during drinking  
It is the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if  
the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces  
or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s  
BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person  
who consumes food just before or during drinking will  
have a somewhat lower BAC level.  
The length of time it has taken the drinker to  
consume the alcohol  
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  
4-3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
There is a gender difference, too. Women generally  
have a lower relative percentage of body water  
than men. Since alcohol is carried in body water, this  
means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC  
level than a man of her same body weight will when  
each has the same number of drinks.  
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. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance  
of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a  
level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!  
The law in most U.S. states, and throughout Canada,  
sets the legal limit at 0.08 percent. In some other  
countries, the limit is even lower. For example, it is  
0.05 percent in both France and Germany. The  
BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States  
is 0.04 percent.  
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol  
in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold  
showers will speed that up. “I will be careful” is not the  
right answer. What if there is an emergency, a need  
to take sudden action, as when a child darts into  
the street? A person with even a moderate BAC  
might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid  
the collision.  
The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to  
six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we have seen,  
it depends on how much alcohol is in the drinks,  
and how quickly the person drinks them.  
There is something else about drinking and driving  
that many people do not know. Medical research shows  
that alcohol in a person’s system can make crash  
injuries worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal  
cord, or heart. This means that when anyone who  
has been drinking — driver or passenger — is in a  
crash, that person’s chance of being killed or  
permanently disabled is higher than if the person  
had not been drinking.  
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.  
4-4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Braking  
{CAUTION:  
Braking action involves perception time and  
reaction time.  
Drinking and then driving is very dangerous.  
Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness, and  
judgment can be affected by even a small  
amount of alcohol. You can have a serious — or  
even fatal — collision if you drive after drinking.  
Please do not drink and drive or ride with a  
driver who has been drinking. Ride home in a  
cab; or if you are with a group, designate a  
driver who will not drink.  
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 three-fourths of a  
second. But that is only an average. It might be less  
with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or  
more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness,  
coordination, and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol,  
drugs, and frustration. But even in three-fourths of a  
second, a vehicle moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels  
66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an  
emergency, so keeping enough space between  
your vehicle and others is important.  
Control of a Vehicle  
And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly  
with the surface of the road, whether it is pavement  
or gravel; the condition of the road, whether it is  
wet, dry, or icy; tire tread; the condition of your brakes;  
the weight of the vehicle; and the amount of brake  
force applied.  
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.  
Sometimes, as when you are driving on snow or ice, it  
is easy to ask more of those control systems than  
the tires and road can provide. That means you can  
lose control of your vehicle.  
4-5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)  
Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes. ABS is an advanced  
electronic braking system that will help prevent a  
braking skid.  
When you start your engine and begin to drive away,  
your anti-lock brake system will check itself. You  
may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while  
this test is going on. This is normal.  
If your engine ever stops while you are driving, brake  
normally but do not pump your brakes. If you do,  
the pedal may get harder to push down. If your engine  
stops, you will still have some power brake assist.  
But you will use it when you brake. Once the power  
assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and  
the brake pedal will be harder to push.  
If there is a problem with  
the anti-lock brake system,  
this warning light will  
stay on. See Anti-Lock  
Light on page 3-40.  
Along with ABS, your vehicle has a Dynamic Rear  
Proportioning (DRP) system. If there is a DRP problem,  
both the brake and ABS warning lights will come on  
accompanied by a 10-second chime. The lights  
and chime will come on each time the ignition is  
turned on until the problem is repaired. See your dealer  
for service.  
4-6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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. If  
one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer  
will separately work the brakes at each front wheel  
and at both rear wheels.  
As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates  
on wheel speed and controls braking pressure  
accordingly.  
4-7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
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.  
The low traction symbol next to the button will come on  
when the TAS is limiting wheel spin. You may feel or  
hear the system working, but this is normal.  
The Traction Assist System may operate on dry roads  
under some conditions. When this happens, you  
may notice a reduction in acceleration. This is normal  
and doesn’t mean there’s a problem with your vehicle.  
Examples of these conditions include a hard  
acceleration in a turn, an abrupt upshift or downshift of  
the transmission or driving on rough roads.  
Using Anti-Lock  
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal  
down firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel  
the brakes vibrate, or you may notice some noise,  
but this is normal.  
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the TAS begins  
to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically  
disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely  
use it again, you may re-engage the cruise control. See  
Cruise Control on page 3-11.  
Braking in Emergencies  
With anti-lock brakes, you can steer and brake at the  
same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you  
more than even the very best braking.  
When the traction control  
off symbol on the button is  
on, the TAS is off and  
will not limit wheel  
spin. Adjust your  
driving accordingly.  
Traction Assist System (TAS)  
Your two-wheel drive vehicle may have a Traction  
Assist System (TAS) that limits wheel spin. This  
is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The  
system operates only if it senses that one or both of the  
rear wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction.  
When this happens, the system reduces engine  
power to limit wheel spin.  
4-8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The traction control off symbol on the button will come  
on under the following conditions:  
To turn the system on or off, press the TAS button  
located near the shift lever. If you used the button to turn  
the system off, the traction control off symbol on the  
button will come on and stay on.  
The Traction Assist System is turned off, either by  
pressing the on/off button or by turning off the  
automatic engagement feature of the TAS.  
You can turn the system back on at any time by  
pressing the button again. The traction control off symbol  
on the button should go off.  
The transmission is in FIRST (1) gear; TAS will not  
operate in this gear. This is normal.  
If desired, you can change the TAS automatic  
engagement feature so that the system will not come on  
automatically when the engine is started. To do so:  
The vehicle is driven on an extremely rough road.  
When the vehicle leaves the rough surface, slows  
down or stops, the light will go off and TAS will  
be on again. This is normal.  
1. Turn the ignition to RUN.  
2. Move the shift lever to NEUTRAL (N).  
A Traction Assist System, Anti-Lock Brake System  
or engine-related problem has been detected and  
the vehicle needs service.  
3. Apply the brake pedal and press the accelerator  
pedal to the floor.  
The Traction Assist System, as delivered from the  
factory, will automatically come on whenever you start  
your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in  
slippery road conditions, you should always leave the  
system on. But you can turn the TAS off if you ever need  
to. You should turn the TAS off if your vehicle ever  
gets stuck in sand, mud or snow and rocking the vehicle  
Ice or Snow on page 4-42 for more information.  
4. Press and hold the TAS button for at least  
six seconds.  
5. Release the TAS button and both pedals.  
6. Start the engine and wait a few seconds.  
The next time you start your vehicle, the TAS will not  
automatically come on. You can restore the automatic  
feature by using the same procedure. Whether the TAS  
is set to come on automatically or not, you can always  
turn the system on or off by pressing the TAS button.  
4-9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
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.  
Locking Rear Axle  
If your vehicle has this feature, your locking rear axle  
can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand  
or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the  
time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction  
and the other does, this feature will allow the wheel with  
traction to move the vehicle.  
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. See Traction Assist  
System (TAS) on page 4-8.  
Steering  
Power Steering  
If you lose power steering assist because the engine  
stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but  
it will take much more effort.  
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on  
the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you  
want it to go, and slow down.  
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should  
adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds  
are based on good weather and road conditions. Under  
less favorable conditions you will want to go slower.  
Steering Tips  
Driving on Curves  
It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed.  
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on  
the news happen on curves. Here is why:  
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to  
the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The  
traction of the tires against the road surface makes it  
possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn  
the front wheels. If there is no traction, inertia will keep  
the vehicle going in the same direction. If you have  
ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you will  
understand this.  
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach  
a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front  
wheels are straight ahead.  
Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the  
curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to  
accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then  
accelerate gently into the straightaway.  
4-10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Steering in Emergencies  
There are times when steering can be more effective  
than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find  
a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls  
out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between  
parked cars and stops right in front of you. You  
can avoid these problems by braking — if you can stop  
in time. But sometimes you cannot; there is not room.  
That is the time for evasive action — steering around  
the problem.  
Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like  
these. First apply your brakes.  
See Braking on page 4-5. It is better to remove as much  
speed as you can from a possible collision. Then  
steer around the problem, to the left or right depending  
on the space available.  
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.  
The fact that such emergency situations are always  
possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving  
at all times and wear safety belts properly.  
4-11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Off-Road Recovery  
Passing  
You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the  
edge of a road onto the shoulder while you are driving.  
The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a  
two-lane highway waits for just the right moment,  
accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then  
goes back into the right lane again. 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. A miscalculation, an error in  
judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger  
can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the  
worst of all traffic accidents — the head-on collision.  
So here are some tips for passing:  
Drive ahead. Look down the road, to the sides and  
to crossroads for situations that might affect your  
passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever  
about making a successful pass, wait for a  
better time.  
If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the  
pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the  
accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way,  
steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of  
the pavement. You can turn the steering wheel up to  
one-quarter turn until the right front tire contacts  
the pavement edge. Then turn your steering wheel to  
go straight down the roadway.  
Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and  
lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might  
indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass.  
A broken center line usually indicates it is all  
right to pass, providing the road ahead is clear.  
Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or  
a double solid line, even if the road seems empty  
of approaching traffic.  
4-12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to  
pass while you are awaiting an opportunity. For  
one thing, following too closely reduces your area  
of vision, especially if you are following a larger  
vehicle. Also, you will not have adequate space if  
the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops.  
Keep back a reasonable distance.  
Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on  
two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the next  
vehicle.  
When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up,  
start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and do  
not get too close. Time your move so you will be  
increasing speed as the time comes to move into the  
other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a  
running start that more than makes up for the  
distance you would lose by dropping back. And if  
something happens to cause you to cancel your  
pass, you need only slow down and drop back again  
and wait for another opportunity.  
Do not overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly.  
Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it may  
be slowing down or starting to turn.  
If you are being passed, make it easy for the  
following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can  
ease a little to the right.  
Loss of Control  
If other vehicles are lined up to pass a slow vehicle,  
wait your turn. But take care that someone is not  
trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow  
vehicle. Remember to glance over your shoulder and  
check the blind spot.  
Let us review what driving experts say about what  
happens when the three control systems — brakes,  
steering, and acceleration — do not have enough  
friction where the tires meet the road to do what the  
driver has asked.  
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  
In any emergency, do not give up. Keep trying to  
steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of  
less danger.  
4-13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
Skidding  
In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.  
Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable  
care suited to existing conditions, and by not overdriving  
those conditions. But skids are always possible.  
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. It is important to slow down on slippery  
surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and  
vehicle control more limited.  
The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle’s  
three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels  
are not rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too  
much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip  
and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration  
skid, too much throttle causes the driving wheels  
to spin.  
While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try  
your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration,  
or braking, including engine braking by shifting to a  
lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires  
to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery  
until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning  
clues — such as enough water, ice, or packed snow  
on the road to make a mirrored surface — and  
slow down when you have any doubt.  
A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off  
the accelerator pedal.  
If you have the Traction Assist System (TAS),  
remember: It helps avoid only the acceleration skid.  
See Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 4-8. If you  
do not have this system, or if the system is off, then an  
acceleration skid is also best handled by easing your  
foot off the accelerator pedal.  
Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps  
avoid only the braking skid.  
4-14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Before You Go Off-Roading  
Off-Road Driving with Your  
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle  
There are some things to do before you go out. For  
example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance  
and service work done. Check to make sure all  
underbody shields (if equipped) are properly attached.  
This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel  
drive. Also, see Braking on page 4-5. If your vehicle  
does not have four-wheel drive, you should not  
Be sure you read all the information about your  
four-wheel-drive vehicle in this manual.  
drive off-road unless you are on a level, solid surface.  
Off-road driving can be great fun. But it does have  
some definite hazards. The greatest of these is the  
terrain itself.  
Is there enough fuel? Is the spare tire fully inflated?  
Are the fluid levels up where they should be? What are  
the local laws that apply to off-roading where you  
will be driving? If you do not know, you should check  
with law enforcement people in the area. Will you be on  
someone’s private land? If so, be sure to get the  
necessary permission.  
“Off-roading” means you have left the great North  
American road system behind. Traffic lanes are not  
marked. Curves are not banked. There are no  
road signs. Surfaces can be slippery, rough, uphill or  
downhill. In short, you have gone right back to nature.  
Off-road driving involves some new skills. And that  
is why it is very important that you read this guide.  
You will find many driving tips and suggestions.  
These will help make your off-road driving safer and  
more enjoyable.  
4-15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road  
Driving  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
There are some important things to remember about  
how to load your vehicle.  
Unsecured cargo on the load floor can be  
tossed about when driving over rough  
terrain. You or your passengers can be  
struck by flying objects. Secure the  
cargo properly.  
The heaviest things should be on the load floor and  
forward of your rear axle. Put heavier items as far  
forward as you can.  
Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle’s  
center of gravity, making it more likely to  
roll over. You can be seriously or fatally  
injured if the vehicle rolls over. Put heavy  
loads inside the cargo area, not on the  
roof. Keep cargo in the cargo area as far  
forward and low as possible.  
Be sure the load is secured properly, so driving on  
the off-road terrain does not toss things around.  
{CAUTION:  
Cargo on the load floor piled higher than  
the seatbacks can be thrown forward  
during a sudden stop. You or your  
passengers could be injured. Keep cargo  
below the top of the seatbacks.  
You will find other important information in this manual.  
Carrier on page 2-54 and Tires on page 5-50.  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
4-16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Environmental Concerns  
Traveling to Remote Areas  
Off-road driving can provide wholesome and satisfying  
recreation. However, it also raises environmental  
concerns. We recognize these concerns and urge every  
off-roader to follow these basic rules for protecting  
the environment:  
It makes sense to plan your trip, especially when going  
to a remote area. Know the terrain and plan your  
route. You are much less likely to get bad surprises.  
Get accurate maps of trails and terrain. Try to learn of  
any blocked or closed roads.  
Always use established trails, roads and areas that  
have been specially set aside for public off-road  
recreational driving; obey all posted regulations.  
It is also a good idea to travel with at least one other  
vehicle. If something happens to one of them, the other  
can help quickly.  
Does your vehicle have a winch? If so, be sure to read  
the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch  
can be handy if you get stuck. But you will want to know  
how to use it properly.  
Avoid any driving practice that could damage  
the environment — shrubs, flowers, trees,  
grasses — or disturb wildlife (this includes  
wheel-spinning, breaking down trees or  
unnecessary driving through streams or over  
soft ground).  
Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving  
It is a good idea to practice in an area that is safe  
and close to home before you go into the wilderness.  
Off-road driving does require some new and different  
skills. Here is what we mean.  
Always carry a litter bag — make sure all refuse  
is removed from any campsite before leaving.  
Take extreme care with open fires (where  
permitted), camp stoves and lanterns.  
Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Your  
eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain  
for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen  
for unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms,  
hands, feet and body, you will need to respond to  
vibrations and vehicle bounce.  
Never park your vehicle over dry grass or other  
combustible materials that could catch fire from  
the heat of the vehicle’s exhaust system.  
4-17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful off-road  
driving. One of the best ways to control your vehicle  
is to control your speed. Here are some things to keep  
in mind. At higher speeds:  
Scanning the Terrain  
Off-road driving can take you over many different kinds  
of terrain. You need to be familiar with the terrain  
and its many different features. Here are some things  
to consider.  
you approach things faster and you have less time  
to scan the terrain for obstacles.  
Surface Conditions: Off-roading can take you over  
hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow  
or ice. Each of these surfaces affects the steering,  
acceleration and braking of your vehicle in different  
ways. Depending upon the kind of surface you are on,  
you may experience slipping, sliding, wheel spinning,  
delayed acceleration, poor traction and longer  
braking distances.  
you have less time to react.  
you have more vehicle bounce when you drive  
over obstacles.  
you will need more distance for braking, especially  
since you are on an unpaved surface.  
Surface Obstacles: Unseen or hidden obstacles can  
be hazardous. A rock, log, hole, rut or bump can startle  
you if you are not prepared for them. Often these  
obstacles are hidden by grass, bushes, snow or even  
the rise and fall of the terrain itself. Here are some  
things to consider:  
{CAUTION:  
When you are driving off-road, bouncing and  
quick changes in direction can easily throw  
you out of position. This could cause you to  
lose control and crash. So, whether you are  
driving on or off the road, you and your  
passengers should wear safety belts.  
Is the path ahead clear?  
Will the surface texture change abruptly up ahead?  
Does the travel take you uphill or downhill?  
There is more discussion of these subjects later.  
Will you have to stop suddenly or change  
direction quickly?  
4-18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
When you drive over obstacles or rough terrain, keep a  
firm grip on the steering wheel. Ruts, troughs or  
other surface features can jerk the wheel out of your  
hands if you are not prepared.  
Driving on Off-Road Hills  
Off-road driving often takes you up, down or across a  
hill. Driving safely on hills requires good judgment  
and an understanding of what your vehicle can and  
cannot do. There are some hills that simply cannot be  
driven, no matter how well built the vehicle.  
When you drive over bumps, rocks, or other obstacles,  
your wheels can leave the ground. If this happens,  
even with one or two wheels, you cannot control the  
vehicle as well or at all.  
Because you will be on an unpaved surface, it is  
especially important to avoid sudden acceleration,  
sudden turns or sudden braking.  
{CAUTION:  
Many hills are simply too steep for any vehicle.  
If you drive up them, you will stall. If you drive  
down them, you cannot control your speed. If  
you drive across them, you will roll over. You  
could be seriously injured or killed. If you have  
any doubt about the steepness, do not drive  
the hill.  
In a way, off-road driving requires a different kind of  
alertness from driving on paved roads and highways.  
There are no road signs, posted speed limits or  
signal lights. You have to use your own good judgment  
about what is safe and what is not.  
Drinking and driving can be very dangerous on any  
road. And this is certainly true for off-road driving. At the  
very time you need special alertness and driving  
skills, your reflexes, perceptions and judgment can be  
affected by even a small amount of alcohol. You  
could have a serious — or even fatal — accident if you  
drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been  
drinking. See Drunken Driving on page 4-2.  
4-19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Approaching a Hill  
Driving Uphill  
When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it is  
one of those hills that is just too steep to climb, descend  
or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very  
small hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant  
incline with only a small change in elevation where  
you can easily see all the way to the top. On a large hill,  
the incline may get steeper as you near the top, but  
you may not see this because the crest of the hill  
is hidden by bushes, grass or shrubs.  
Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you  
need to take some special steps.  
Use a low gear and get a firm grip on the  
steering wheel.  
Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain  
your speed. Do not use more power than you  
need, because you do not want your wheels to start  
spinning or sliding.  
Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible. If  
the path twists and turns, you might want to find  
another route.  
Here are some other things to consider as you approach  
a hill.  
Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get  
sharply steeper in places?  
Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the  
surface cause tire slipping?  
{CAUTION:  
Is there a straight path up or down the hill so you  
will not have to make turning maneuvers?  
Are there obstructions on the hill that can block your  
path, such as boulders, trees, logs, or ruts?  
What is beyond the hill? Is there a cliff, an  
embankment, a drop-off, a fence? Get out and  
walk the hill if you do not know. It is the smart way to  
find out.  
Is the hill simply too rough? Steep hills often have  
ruts, gullies, troughs and exposed rocks because  
they are more susceptible to the effects of erosion.  
Turning or driving across steep hills can be  
dangerous. You could lose traction, slide  
sideways, and possibly roll over. You could be  
seriously injured or killed. When driving up  
hills, always try to go straight up.  
Ease up on your speed as you approach the top of  
the hill.  
Attach a flag to the vehicle to make you more  
visible to approaching traffic on trails or hills.  
4-20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Sound the horn as you approach the top of the hill  
to let opposing traffic know you are there.  
If your engine is still running, shift the transmission  
to REVERSE (R), release the parking brake, and  
slowly back down the hill in REVERSE (R).  
Use your headlamps even during the day. They  
make you more visible to oncoming traffic.  
If your engine has stopped running, you will need to  
restart it. With the brake pedal pressed and the  
parking brake still applied, shift the transmission to  
PARK (P) and restart the engine. Then, shift to  
REVERSE (R), release the parking brake, and  
slowly back down the hill as straight as possible in  
REVERSE (R).  
{CAUTION:  
Driving to the top (crest) of a hill at full speed  
can cause an accident. There could be a  
drop-off, embankment, cliff, or even another  
vehicle. You could be seriously injured or  
killed. As you near the top of a hill, slow down  
and stay alert.  
As you are backing down the hill, put your left hand  
on the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position.  
This way, you will be able to tell if your wheels are  
straight and maneuver as you back down. It is  
best that you back down the hill with your wheels  
straight rather than in the left or right direction.  
Turning the wheel too far to the left or right  
will increase the possibility of a rollover.  
Q: What should I do if my vehicle stalls, or  
is about to stall, and I cannot make it up  
the hill?  
A: If this happens, there are some things you should  
do, and there are some things you must not do.  
First, here is what you should do:  
Push the brake pedal to stop the vehicle and  
keep it from rolling backwards. Also, apply the  
parking brake.  
4-21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Here are some things you must not do if you stall, or  
are about to stall, when going up a hill.  
Q: Suppose, after stalling, I try to back down  
the hill and decide I just cannot do it. What  
should I do?  
Never attempt to prevent a stall by shifting into  
NEUTRAL (N) to rev-up the engine and regain  
forward momentum. This will not work. Your vehicle  
will roll backwards very quickly and you could go  
out of control.  
A: Set the parking brake, put your transmission in  
PARK (P) and turn off the engine. Leave the  
vehicle and go get some help. Exit on the uphill  
side and stay clear of the path the vehicle would  
take if it rolled downhill. Do not shift the transfer  
case to NEUTRAL when you leave the vehicle.  
Leave it in some gear.  
Instead, apply the regular brake to stop the  
vehicle. Then apply the parking brake. Shift to  
REVERSE (R), release the parking brake,  
and slowly back straight down.  
Never attempt to turn around if you are about to  
stall when going up a hill. If the hill is steep  
enough to stall your vehicle, it is steep enough to  
cause you to roll over if you turn around. If you  
cannot make it up the hill, you must back straight  
down the hill.  
{CAUTION:  
Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can  
cause your vehicle to roll even if the  
transmission is in PARK (P). This is because  
the NEUTRAL position on the transfer case  
overrides the transmission. You or someone  
else could be injured. If you are going to leave  
your vehicle, set the parking brake and shift  
the transmission to PARK (P). But do not shift  
the transfer case to NEUTRAL. Leave the  
transfer case in the 2 Wheel High, 4 High or  
4 Low position.  
4-22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Driving Downhill  
{CAUTION:  
When off-roading takes you downhill, you will want to  
consider a number of things:  
How steep is the downhill? Will I be able to maintain  
vehicle control?  
Heavy braking when going down a hill can  
cause your brakes to overheat and fade. This  
could cause loss of control and a serious  
accident. Apply the brakes lightly when  
descending a hill and use a low gear to keep  
vehicle speed under control.  
What is the surface like? Smooth? Rough?  
Slippery? Hard-packed dirt? Gravel?  
Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts? Logs?  
Boulders?  
What is at the bottom of the hill? Is there a hidden  
creek bank or even a river bottom with large rocks?  
Q: Are there some things I should not do when  
If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to  
keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a  
low gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes  
and they will not have to do all the work. Descend  
slowly, keeping your vehicle under control at all times.  
driving down a hill?  
A: Yes! These are important because if you ignore  
them you could lose control and have a serious  
accident.  
When driving downhill, avoid turns that take you  
across the incline of the hill. A hill that is not too  
steep to drive down may be too steep to drive  
across. You could roll over if you do not drive  
straight down.  
Never go downhill with the transmission in  
NEUTRAL (N). This is called “free-wheeling.”  
Your brakes will have to do all the work and  
could overheat and fade.  
4-23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Also, driving across an incline puts more weight on  
the downhill wheels. This could cause a downhill  
slide or a rollover.  
Q: Am I likely to stall when going downhill?  
A: It is much more likely to happen going uphill.  
But if it happens going downhill, here is what to do.  
Surface conditions can be a problem when you drive  
across a hill. Loose gravel, muddy spots, or even wet  
grass can cause your tires to slip sideways, downhill.  
If the vehicle slips sideways, it can hit something that  
will trip it — a rock, a rut, etc. — and roll over.  
1. Stop your vehicle by applying the regular brakes.  
Apply the parking brake.  
2. Shift to PARK (P) and, while still braking, restart  
the engine.  
Hidden obstacles can make the steepness of the  
incline even worse. If you drive across a rock with the  
uphill wheels, or if the downhill wheels drop into a rut  
or depression, your vehicle can tilt even more.  
3. Shift back to a low gear, release the parking brake,  
and drive straight down.  
4. If the engine will not start, get out and get help.  
For reasons like these, you need to decide carefully  
whether to try to drive across an incline. Just because the  
trail goes across the incline does not mean you have to  
drive it. The last vehicle to try it might have rolled over.  
Driving Across an Incline  
Sooner or later, an off-road trail will probably go  
across the incline of a hill. If this happens, you have  
to decide whether to try to drive across the incline.  
Here are some things to consider:  
A hill that can be driven straight up or down may be  
too steep to drive across. When you go straight up or  
down a hill, the length of the wheel base — the  
distance from the front wheels to the rear  
{CAUTION:  
Driving across an incline that is too steep will  
make your vehicle roll over. You could be  
seriously injured or killed. If you have any  
doubt about the steepness of the incline, do  
not drive across it. Find another route instead.  
wheels — reduces the likelihood the vehicle will  
tumble end over end. But when you drive across an  
incline, the much more narrow track width — the  
distance between the left and right wheels — may  
not prevent the vehicle from tilting and rolling over.  
4-24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Q: What if I am driving across an incline that is not  
too steep, but I hit some loose gravel and start  
to slide downhill. What should I do?  
A: If you feel your vehicle starting to slide sideways,  
turn downhill. This should help straighten out the  
vehicle and prevent the side slipping. However,  
a much better way to prevent this is to get out and  
“walk the course” so you know what the surface  
is like before you drive it.  
Stalling on an Incline  
If your vehicle stalls when you are crossing an incline,  
be sure you, and any passengers, get out on the  
uphill side, even if the door there is harder to open.  
If you get out on the downhill side and the vehicle starts  
to roll over, you will be right in its path.  
If you have to walk down the slope, stay out of the path  
the vehicle will take if it does roll over.  
{CAUTION:  
Getting out on the downhill (low) side of a  
vehicle stopped across an incline is dangerous.  
If the vehicle rolls over, you could be crushed  
or killed. Always get out on the uphill (high)  
side of the vehicle and stay well clear of the  
rollover path.  
4-25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Driving in Mud, Sand, Snow or Ice  
{CAUTION:  
When you drive in mud, snow or sand, your wheels will  
not get good traction. You cannot accelerate as  
quickly, turning is more difficult, and you will need longer  
braking distances.  
Driving on frozen lakes, ponds, or rivers can  
be dangerous. Underwater springs, currents  
under the ice, or sudden thaws can weaken the  
ice. Your vehicle could fall through the ice and  
you and your passengers could drown. Drive  
your vehicle on safe surfaces only.  
It is best to use a low gear when you are in mud — the  
deeper the mud, the lower the gear. In really deep  
mud, the idea is to keep your vehicle moving so you do  
not get stuck.  
When you drive on sand, you will sense a change in  
wheel traction. But it will depend upon how loosely  
packed the sand is. On loosely packed sand, such as  
on beaches or sand dunes, your tires will tend to  
sink into the sand. This has an effect on steering,  
accelerating and braking. Drive at a reduced speed and  
avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers.  
Driving in Water  
Heavy rain can mean flash flooding, and flood waters  
demand extreme caution.  
Find out how deep the water is before you drive through  
it. If it is deep enough to cover your wheel hubs,  
axles or exhaust pipe, do not try it — you probably will  
not get through. Also, water that deep can damage  
your axle and other vehicle parts.  
Hard packed snow and ice offer the worst tire traction.  
On these surfaces, it is very easy to lose control.  
On wet ice, for example, the traction is so poor that you  
will have difficulty accelerating. And if you do get  
moving, poor steering and difficult braking can cause  
you to slide out of control.  
4-26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the water is not too deep, drive slowly through it.  
At faster speeds, water splashes on your ignition system  
and your vehicle can stall. Stalling can also occur if  
you get your tailpipe under water. And, as long as  
your tailpipe is under water, you will never be able to  
start your engine. When you go through water,  
remember that when your brakes get wet, it may take  
you longer to stop.  
After Off-Road Driving  
Remove any brush or debris that has collected on  
the underbody, chassis or under the hood. These  
accumulations can be a fire hazard.  
After operation in mud or sand, have the brake linings  
cleaned and checked. These substances can cause  
glazing and uneven braking. Check the body structure,  
steering, suspension, wheels, tires and exhaust  
system for damage. Also, check the fuel lines and  
cooling system for any leakage.  
{CAUTION:  
Your vehicle will require more frequent service due to  
off-road use. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule  
for additional information.  
Driving through rushing water can be  
dangerous. Deep water can sweep your vehicle  
downstream and you and your passengers  
could drown. If it is only shallow water, it can  
still wash away the ground from under your  
tires, and you could lose traction and roll the  
vehicle over. Do not drive through rushing  
water.  
See Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads on page 4-29 for  
more information on driving through water.  
4-27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Here are some tips on night driving.  
Drive defensively.  
Driving at Night  
Do not drink and drive.  
Since you cannot 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.  
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime.  
But as we get older these differences increase.  
A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much  
light to see the same thing at night as a 20-year-old.  
What you do in the daytime can also affect your  
night vision. For example, if you spend the day in bright  
sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your  
eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you  
are driving, do not wear sunglasses at night. They  
may cut down on glare from headlamps, but they also  
make a lot of things invisible.  
Night driving is more dangerous than day driving.  
One reason is that some drivers are likely to be  
impaired — by alcohol or drugs, with night vision  
problems, or by fatigue.  
4-28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching  
headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several  
seconds, for your eyes to re-adjust to the dark. When  
you are faced with severe glare, as from a driver  
who does not lower the high beams, or a vehicle with  
misaimed headlamps, slow down a little. Avoid  
staring directly into the approaching headlamps.  
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads  
Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicle  
clean — inside and out. Glare at night is made much  
worse by dirt on the glass. Even the inside of the glass  
can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makes  
lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would,  
making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly.  
Remember that your headlamps light up far less of a  
roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep  
your eyes moving; that way, it is easier to pick out dimly  
lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be  
checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes  
be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from  
night blindness — the inability to see in dim light — and  
are not even aware of it.  
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet  
road, you cannot 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.  
4-29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your  
windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy  
rain can make it harder to see road signs and  
traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road,  
and even people walking.  
{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.  
It is wise to keep your wiping equipment in good shape  
and keep your windshield washer tank filled with  
washer fluid. Replace your windshield wiper inserts  
when they show signs of streaking or missing areas on  
the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to  
separate from the inserts.  
After driving through a large puddle of water  
or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly  
until your brakes work normally.  
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 cannot, try to slow down before you  
hit them.  
4-30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Hydroplaning  
Driving Through Flowing Water  
Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up  
under your tires that they can actually ride on the  
water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and  
you are going fast enough. When your vehicle is  
hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.  
{CAUTION:  
Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces.  
If you try to drive through flowing water, as you  
might at a low water crossing, your vehicle  
can be carried away. As little as six inches of  
flowing water can carry away a smaller vehicle.  
If this happens, you and other vehicle  
occupants could drown. Do not ignore police  
warning signs, and otherwise be very cautious  
about trying to drive through flowing water.  
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. If you can see reflections  
from trees, telephone poles, or other vehicles, and  
raindrops dimple the water’s surface, there could  
be hydroplaning.  
Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There  
just is not a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning.  
The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.  
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips  
Driving Through Deep Standing Water  
Besides slowing down, allow some extra following  
distance. And be especially careful when you  
pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear  
room ahead, and be prepared to have your  
view restricted by road spray.  
Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep  
puddles or standing water, water can come in  
through your engine’s air intake and badly damage  
your engine. Never drive through water that is  
slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle.  
If you cannot avoid deep puddles or standing water,  
drive through them very slowly.  
Have good tires with proper tread depth.  
See Tires on page 5-50.  
4-31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:  
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 4-33.  
Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic  
light is there because the corner is busy enough  
to need it. When a light turns green, and just before  
you start to move, check both ways for vehicles  
that have not cleared the intersection or may  
be running the red light.  
One of the biggest problems with city streets is the  
amount of traffic on them. You will want to watch out for  
what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to  
traffic signals.  
4-32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
Freeway Driving  
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. Try to determine where you expect to blend with  
the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close to the  
prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your  
mirrors, and glance over your shoulder as often as  
necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.  
Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to the  
posted limit or to the prevailing rate if it is slower.  
Stay in the right lane unless you want to pass.  
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use  
your turn signal.  
Mile for mile, freeways — also called thruways,  
parkways, expressways, turnpikes, or  
superhighways — are the safest of all roads.  
But they have their own special rules.  
4-33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your  
shoulder to make sure there is not another vehicle in  
your blind spot.  
Before Leaving on a Long Trip  
Make sure you are ready. Try to be well rested. If you  
must start when you are not fresh — such as after  
a day’s work — do not plan to make too many miles that  
first part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing  
and shoes you can easily drive in.  
Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you  
allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to  
move slightly slower at night.  
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the  
proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do  
not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive  
on to the next exit.  
Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it  
serviced and maintained, it is ready to go. If it needs  
service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you  
will find experienced and able service experts in  
GM dealerships all across North America. They will be  
ready and willing to help if you need it.  
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.  
4-34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Here are some things you can check before a trip:  
Highway Hypnosis  
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.  
Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full?  
Are all windows clean inside and outside?  
Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?  
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.  
Do not let it happen to you! If it does, your vehicle  
can leave the road in less than a second, and you could  
crash and be injured.  
Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked  
all levels?  
Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?  
Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,  
trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for  
long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to  
the recommended pressure?  
What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, be  
aware that it can happen.  
Weather Forecasts: What is the weather outlook  
along your route? Should you delay your trip a  
short time to avoid a major storm system?  
Then here are some tips:  
Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a  
comfortably cool interior.  
Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and  
to the sides. Check your mirrors and your  
instruments frequently.  
Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?  
If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest,  
service, or parking area and take a nap, get some  
exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness  
on the highway as an emergency.  
4-35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you are  
planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make  
your trips safer and more enjoyable. See Off-Road  
page 4-15 for information about driving off-road.  
Hill and Mountain Roads  
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.  
Know how to go down hills. The most important  
thing to know is this: let your engine do some of  
the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go  
down a steep or long hill.  
{CAUTION:  
If you do not shift down, your brakes 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. Shift down  
to let your engine assist your brakes on a  
steep downhill slope.  
Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from  
driving in flat or rolling terrain.  
4-36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane  
roads in hills or mountains. Do not swing wide  
or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds  
that let you stay in your own lane.  
{CAUTION:  
Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the  
ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have  
to do all the work of slowing down. They could  
get so hot that they would not work well. You  
would then have poor braking or even none  
going down a hill. You could crash. Always  
have your engine running and your vehicle in  
gear when you go downhill.  
As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There  
could be something in your lane, like a stalled car or  
an accident.  
You may see highway signs on mountains that warn  
of special problems. Examples are long grades,  
passing or no-passing zones, a falling rocks area,  
or winding roads. Be alert to these and take  
appropriate action.  
Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down  
to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your  
engine and transmission, and you can climb the  
hill better.  
4-37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
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.  
Winter Driving  
Driving on Snow or Ice  
Most of the time, those places where your tires meet  
the road probably have good traction.  
However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and  
the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You  
will have a lot less traction, or grip, and will need to be  
very careful.  
Here are some tips for winter driving:  
Have your vehicle in good shape for winter.  
You may want to put winter emergency supplies in  
your vehicle.  
Also see Tires on page 5-50.  
4-38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Whatever the condition — smooth ice, packed, blowing,  
or loose snow — drive with caution.  
If you have the traction assist system (TAS), it will  
improve your ability to accelerate when driving on a  
slippery road. But you can turn the TAS off if you ever  
need to. You should turn the TAS off if your vehicle ever  
gets stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow. See If Your  
page 4-42. Even though your vehicle has TAS, you will  
want to slow down and adjust your driving to the  
road conditions. Under certain conditions, you may want  
to turn the TAS off, such as when driving through  
deep snow and loose gravel, to help maintain vehicle  
motion at lower speeds. See Traction Assist System  
(TAS) on page 4-8.  
If you do not have TAS, 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.  
What is the worst time for this? Wet ice. Very cold snow  
or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice  
can be even more trouble because it may offer the least  
traction of all. You can get wet ice when it is about  
freezing, 32°F (0°C), and freezing rain begins to fall.  
Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews  
can get there.  
4-39  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Your anti-lock brake system (ABS) improves your  
vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a  
slippery road. Even though you have ABS, you will want  
to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry  
page 4-6.  
If You Are Caught in a Blizzard  
If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a  
serious situation. You should probably stay with  
your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near  
help and you can hike through the snow. Here are  
some things to do to summon help and keep yourself  
and your passengers safe:  
Allow greater following distance on any  
slippery road.  
Turn on your hazard flashers.  
Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine  
until you hit a spot that is covered with ice. On  
an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in  
shaded areas where the sun cannot reach, such  
as around clumps of trees, behind buildings,  
or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a  
curve or an overpass may remain icy when the  
surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of  
ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not  
to brake while you are actually on the ice, and  
avoid sudden steering maneuvers.  
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 do not have 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.  
4-40  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
{CAUTION:  
Snow can trap exhaust gases under your  
vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon  
monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could  
overcome you and kill you. You cannot see it  
or smell it, so you might not know it is in your  
vehicle. Clear away snow from around the  
base of your vehicle, especially any that is  
blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around  
again from time to time to be sure snow does  
not collect there.  
Open a window just a little on the side of the  
vehicle that is away from the wind. This will  
help keep CO out.  
You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.  
Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves  
fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little  
faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator  
slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and  
it keeps the battery charged. You will need a  
well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly  
for signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the  
heater run for a while.  
4-41  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost  
all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine  
again and repeat this only when you feel really  
uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as  
possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help  
keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do  
some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until  
help comes.  
{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.  
When you are stuck, spin the wheels as little  
as possible. Do not spin the wheels above  
35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the  
If Your Vehicle is 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.  
speedometer.  
Notice: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of  
your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the  
wheels too fast while shifting your transmission  
back and forth, you can destroy your transmission.  
For more information about using tire chains on your  
vehicle, see Tire Chains on page 5-63.  
4-42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out  
Loading Your Vehicle  
First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That  
will clear the area around your front wheels. If you have  
a four-wheel-drive vehicle, shift into 4HI. Then shift  
back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward  
gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release  
the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly  
on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is  
in gear. By slowly spinning your wheels in the forward  
and reverse directions, you will cause a rocking  
motion that may free your vehicle. If that does not get  
you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out.  
If you do need to be towed out, see Towing Your  
Vehicle on page 4-50.  
It is very important to know how much weight your  
vehicle can carry. This weight is called the vehicle  
capacity weight and includes the weight of all occupants,  
cargo and all nonfactory-installed options. Two labels  
on your vehicle show how much weight it was designed  
to carry, the Tire and Loading Information label and  
the Certification/Tire label.  
{CAUTION:  
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the  
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either  
the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight  
Rating (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.  
4-43  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The Tire and Loading Information label also shows the  
size of the original equipment tires (C) and the  
Tire and Loading Information Label  
recommended cold tire inflation pressures (D). For more  
information on tires and inflation see Tires on page 5-50  
and Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-56.  
There is also important loading information on the  
vehicle Certification/Tire label. It tells you the Gross  
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross  
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axle.  
See “Certification/Tire Label” later in this section.  
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit  
1. Locate the statement “The combined weight  
of occupants and cargo should never exceed  
XXX kg or XXX pounds” on your vehicle’s placard.  
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and  
passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.  
Label Example  
A vehicle specific Tire and Loading Information label is  
attached to the center pillar (B-pillar). With the driver’s  
door open, you will find the label attached below  
the door lock post (striker). The tire and loading  
information label shows the number of occupant seating  
positions (A), and the maximum vehicle capacity  
weight (B) in kilograms and pounds.  
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and  
passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds.  
4-44  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of  
cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if  
the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be  
five 150 lb passengers in your vehicle, the amount  
of available cargo and luggage load capacity is  
650 lbs (1400 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs).  
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and  
cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight  
may not safely exceed the available cargo  
and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.  
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load from  
your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle.  
Consult this manual to determine how this reduces  
the available cargo and luggage load capacity of  
your vehicle. See Towing a Trailer on page 4-55 for  
important information on towing a trailer, towing  
safety rules and trailering tips.  
Example 1  
Description  
Item  
Total  
Vehicle Capacity Weight  
for Example 1 =  
A
1,000 lbs (453 kg)  
Subtract Occupant  
Weight 150 lbs  
(68 kg) × 2 =  
B
C
300 lbs (136 kg)  
700 lbs (317 kg)  
Available Occupant and  
Cargo Weight =  
4-45  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Example 2  
Description  
Example 3  
Description  
Item  
Total  
Item  
Total  
Vehicle Capacity Weight  
for Example 2 =  
Vehicle Capacity Weight  
for Example 3 =  
A
1,000 lbs (453 kg)  
A
1,000 lbs (453 kg)  
Subtract Occupant  
Weight 150 lbs  
(68 kg) × 5 =  
Subtract Occupant  
Weight 200 lbs  
(91 kg) × 5 =  
B
C
750 lbs (136 kg)  
250 lbs (113 kg)  
B
C
1,000 lbs (453 kg)  
0 lbs (0 kg)  
Available Cargo  
Weight =  
Available Cargo  
Weight =  
Refer to your vehicle’s tire and loading information label  
for specific information about your vehicle’s capacity  
weight and seating positions. The combined weight of  
the driver, passengers and cargo should never  
exceed your vehicle’s capacity weight.  
4-46  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum  
weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross  
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads  
on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a  
weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can  
help you with this. Be sure to spread out your load  
equally on both sides of the centerline.  
Certification/Tire Label  
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.  
Similar appearing vehicles may have different GVWRs  
and capacity weight. Please note your vehicle’s  
Certification/Tire label or consult your dealer for  
additional details.  
A vehicle specific Certification/Tire label is found on the  
rear edge of the driver’s door. The label shows the  
size of your vehicle’s 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, cargo and trailer tongue  
weight, if pulling a trailer.  
4-47  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
{CAUTION:  
{CAUTION:  
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the  
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either  
the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight  
Rating (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.  
Things you put inside your vehicle can strike  
and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or  
in a crash.  
Put things in the cargo area of your  
vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly.  
Never stack heavier things, like suitcases,  
inside the vehicle so that some of them  
are above the tops of the seats.  
Do not leave an unsecured child restraint  
in your vehicle.  
When you carry something inside the  
vehicle, secure it whenever you can.  
Do not leave a seat folded down unless  
you need to.  
Using heavier suspension components to get  
added durability might not change your vehicle’s weight  
ratings. Ask your dealer to help you load your vehicle  
the right way.  
Notice: Overloading your vehicle may cause  
damage. Repairs would not be covered by your  
warranty. Do not overload your vehicle.  
There’s also important loading information for off-road  
driving in this manual. See “Loading Your Vehicle  
for Off-Road Driving” under Off-Road Driving with Your  
If you put things inside your vehicle — like suitcases,  
tools, packages, or anything else — they will go as  
fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or  
turn quickly, or if there’s a crash, they will keep going.  
4-48  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Load leveling will not function normally with the  
inflator hose attached to the inflator outlet. Remove  
the inflator hose from the outlet during loading  
and unloading.  
Electronically Controlled Air  
Suspension System  
Your vehicle may be equipped with an electronically  
controlled air suspension system that automatically  
keeps your vehicle level as you load and unload. The  
system includes a compressor, two height sensors  
and two air springs supporting the rear axle.  
If the vehicle is parked for an extended period of time,  
some bleed down of the suspension is normal. Upon  
starting the vehicle, proper height will be achieved.  
Overload Protection  
The system also has an internal clock to prevent  
overheating. If the system overheats, all leveling  
function stops until the system cools down. During this  
time, the indicator light on the air inflator system will  
be flashing.  
The air suspension system is equipped with overload  
protection. Overload protection is designed to protect the  
air suspension system, and it is an indicator to the  
driver that the vehicle is overloaded. When the overload  
protection mode is on, it will not allow damage to the  
air compressor. However, do not overload the vehicle.  
See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
The ignition has to be on for the system to inflate, in  
order to raise the vehicle to the standard ride height after  
loading. The system can lower the vehicle to the  
standard ride height after unloading with the ignition on  
and also for up to 30 minutes after the ignition has  
been turned off.  
If the suspension remains at a low height, the rear axle  
load has exceeded GAWR (Gross Axle Weight  
Rating). When the overload protection mode is activated,  
the compressor operates for about 30 seconds to one  
minute without raising the vehicle depending on the  
amount of overload. This will continue each time  
the ignition is turned on until the rear axle load is  
reduced below GAWR.  
You may hear the compressor operating when you load  
your vehicle, and periodically as the system adjusts  
the vehicle to the standard ride height.  
4-49  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Indicator Light  
Towing  
The indicator light on the inflator switch in the rear  
passenger compartment also serves as an indicator for  
internal system error. If the indicator light is flashing  
without the load leveling function or the inflator being  
active, turn off the ignition. The next day turn on  
the ignition and check the indicator light. The vehicle  
can be driven with the light flashing, but if it is you  
should have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible.  
Towing Your Vehicle  
Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if  
you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See  
If you want to tow your vehicle behind another vehicle  
for recreational purposes (such as behind a motorhome),  
see “Recreational Vehicle Towing” following.  
Adding a Snow Plow or Similar  
Equipment  
Recreational Vehicle Towing  
Your vehicle was neither designed nor intended for a  
snow plow.  
Recreational vehicle towing means towing your vehicle  
behind another vehicle – such as behind a motorhome.  
The two most common types of recreational vehicle  
towing are known as “dinghy towing” (towing your  
vehicle with all four wheels on the ground) and “dolly  
towing” (towing your vehicle with two wheels on  
the ground and two wheels up on a device known  
as a “dolly”).  
Notice: Adding a snow plow or similar equipment  
to your vehicle can damage it, and the repairs would  
not be covered by warranty. Do not install a snow  
plow or similar equipment on your vehicle.  
4-50  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
With the proper preparation and equipment, many  
vehicles can be towed in these ways. See “Dinghy  
Towing” and “Dolly Towing,” following. You may  
also need brakes for the vehicle being towed. See your  
dealer for additional trailering information.  
Dinghy Towing  
Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles  
Notice: If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels  
on the ground, the drivetrain components could  
be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by  
your warranty. Do not tow your vehicle with all  
four wheels on the ground.  
Here are some important things to consider before you  
do recreational vehicle towing:  
What’s the trailering capacity of the towing vehicle?  
Be sure you read the tow vehicle manufacturer’s  
recommendations.  
Two-wheel-drive vehicles should not be towed with  
all four wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive  
transmissions have no provisions for internal lubrication  
while being towed. To properly tow these vehicles,  
they should be placed on a platform trailer.  
How far will you tow? Some vehicles have  
restrictions on how far and how long they can  
be towed.  
Do you have the proper towing equipment? See  
your dealer or trailering professional for additional  
advice and equipment recommendations.  
Is your vehicle ready to be towed? Just as you  
would prepare your vehicle for a long trip, you’ll  
want to make sure your vehicle is prepared to be  
page 4-34.  
4-51  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
3. Firmly set the parking brake.  
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles  
4. Securely attach the vehicle being towed to the  
tow vehicle.  
{CAUTION:  
Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer  
case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to  
roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P).  
You or others could be injured. Make sure the  
parking brake is firmly set before you shift the  
transfer case to NEUTRAL.  
5. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL (N). See  
Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-27 for the proper  
procedure to select the NEUTRAL (N) position for  
your vehicle.  
Four-wheel-drive vehicles can be dinghy towed if you  
follow the proper procedures. The transmission has  
no provisions for internal lubrication while being towed,  
so it is important that you follow all the steps listed  
in this manual to dinghy tow your four-wheel-drive  
vehicle.  
6. Release the parking brake only after the  
vehicle being towed is firmly attached to the  
towing vehicle.  
Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle:  
1. Shift the transmission to PARK (P).  
7. Turn the ignition off.  
After towing, see “Shifting Out of Neutral” under  
Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-27.  
2. Turn the engine off, but leave the ignition on.  
4-52  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Dolly Towing  
Front Towing (Front Wheels Off the  
Ground)  
{CAUTION:  
Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer  
case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to  
roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P).  
You or others could be injured. Make sure the  
parking brake is firmly set before you shift the  
transfer case to NEUTRAL.  
Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles  
Notice: If you tow a two-wheel-drive vehicle with  
the rear wheels on the ground, the transmission  
could be damaged. The repairs would not be  
covered by your warranty. Never tow your vehicle  
with the rear wheels on the ground.  
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles  
6. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL (N). See  
Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-27 for the proper  
procedure to select the NEUTRAL (N) position for  
your vehicle.  
Four-wheel-drive vehicles can be dolly towed with the  
rear wheels on the ground.  
Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle:  
1. Drive the vehicle onto the tow dolly.  
7. Release the parking brake only after the  
vehicle being towed is firmly attached to the  
towing vehicle.  
2. Shift the automatic transmission to PARK (P).  
3. Turn the engine off, but leave the ignition on.  
4. Firmly set the parking brake.  
8. Turn the ignition off.  
After towing, see “Shifting Out of Neutral” under  
Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-27.  
5. Securely attach the vehicle being towed to  
the dolly.  
4-53  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
3. Shift the transmission in PARK (P).  
Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the  
Ground)  
(Two-Wheel or Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles)  
4. Follow the dolly manufacturer’s instructions to  
attach and secure the vehicle being towed to  
the dolly and then the loaded dolly to the tow  
vehicle. Use an adequate clamping device to  
ensure that the front wheels are locked into the  
straight position.  
5. Release the parking brake only after the  
vehicle being towed is firmly attached to the  
towing vehicle.  
6. Turn the ignition to LOCK.  
If the tow vehicle will not be started or driven for  
six weeks or more, remove the battery cable  
from the negative terminal (post) of the battery.  
Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle from  
the rear:  
1. Drive the vehicle onto the dolly.  
2. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on  
page 2-31 for more information.  
4-54  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
To identify the trailering capacity of your vehicle, you  
should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that  
appears later in this section.  
Towing a Trailer  
Trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by  
itself. Trailering means changes in acceleration, braking,  
handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful,  
safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be  
used properly.  
{CAUTION:  
If you do not use the correct equipment and  
drive properly, you can lose control when you  
pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too  
heavy, the brakes may not work well — or even  
at all. You and your passengers could be  
seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have  
followed all the steps in this section. Ask your  
dealer for advice and information about towing  
a trailer with your vehicle.  
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. So please read this section carefully before  
you pull a trailer.  
Notice: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage  
your vehicle and result in costly repairs that would  
not be covered by your warranty. Always follow  
the instructions in this section and check with your  
dealer for more information about towing a trailer  
with your vehicle.  
4-55  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
You can tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift  
the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a  
lower gear selection if the transmission shifts  
too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly  
conditions).  
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer  
If you do, here are some important points:  
There are many different laws, including speed limit  
restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure  
your rig will be legal, not only where you live  
Three important considerations have to do with weight:  
the weight of the trailer,  
but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for  
this information can be state or provincial police.  
the weight of the trailer tongue  
Consider using a sway control. See “Hitches” later  
in this section.  
and the weight on your vehicle’s tires.  
Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles  
(800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine,  
axle or other parts could be damaged.  
Weight of the Trailer  
How heavy can a trailer safely be?  
Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you  
tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h)  
and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your  
engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at  
the heavier loads.  
It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For  
example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside  
temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull  
a trailer are all important. And, it can also depend  
on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle.  
4-56  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Look in the following chart to find the maximum trailer weight for your vehicle.  
Vehicle  
Axle Ratio  
3.42  
3.73  
4.10  
3.42  
3.73  
4.10  
3.42  
3.73  
4.10  
3.42  
3.73  
4.10  
3.42  
3.73  
3.42  
3.73  
Max. Trailer Wt.  
5,300 lbs (2 404 kg)  
5,800 lbs (2 631 kg)  
6,300 lbs (2 858 kg)  
5,100 lbs (2 313 kg)  
5,600 lbs (2 540 kg)  
6,100 lbs (2 767 kg)  
5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)  
5,500 lbs (2 495 kg)  
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)  
4,800 lbs (2 177 kg)  
5,300 lbs (2 404 kg)  
5,800 lbs (2 631 kg)  
5,900 lbs (2 676 kg)  
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)  
5,700 lbs (2 585 kg)  
6,500 lbs (2 948 kg)  
*GCWR  
10,000 lbs (4 536 kg)  
10,500 lbs (4 763 kg)  
11,000 lbs (4 990 kg)  
10,000 lbs (4 536 kg)  
10,500 lbs (4 763 kg)  
11,000 lbs (4 990 kg)  
10,000 lbs (4 536 kg)  
10,500 lbs (4 763 kg)  
11,000 lbs (4 990 kg)  
10,000 lbs (4 536 kg)  
10,500 lbs (4 763 kg)  
11,000 lbs (4 990 kg)  
11,000 lbs (4 990 kg)  
12,500 lbs (5 670 kg)  
11,000 lbs (4 990 kg)  
12,500 lbs (5 670 kg)  
2WD Envoy (L6 Engine)  
4WD Envoy (L6 Engine)  
2WD Envoy XL (L6 Engine)  
4WD Envoy XL (L6 Engine)  
2WD Envoy XL (V8 Engine)  
4WD Envoy XL (V8 Engine)  
*The Gross Combination 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.  
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information  
or advice, or you can write us at the address listed  
in your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information  
Booklet.  
4-57  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
In Canada, write to:  
General Motors of Canada Limited  
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005  
1908 Colonel Sam Drive  
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7  
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. And  
if you will tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load  
to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying  
that weight, too. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43  
for more information about your vehicle’s maximum  
load capacity.  
The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 to 15 percent  
of the total loaded trailer weight (B), up to a maximum  
of 400 lbs (181 kg) with a weight carrying hitch. The  
trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to  
15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (A), up to  
a maximum of 900 lbs (408 kg) for a weight  
distributing hitch.  
Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight  
for your vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension  
that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle.  
This will help reduce the effect of trailer tongue weight  
on the rear axle.  
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.  
4-58  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires  
Weight Distributing Hitches and Weight  
Carrying Hitches  
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper  
limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on  
the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver’s  
door. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43 for  
more information. Then, be sure you don’t go over the  
GVW limit for your vehicle, or the GAWR, including  
the weight of the trailer tongue. If you use a weight  
distributing hitch, make sure you don’t go over the rear  
axle limit before you apply the weight distribution  
spring bars.  
Hitches  
It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.  
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads  
are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch.  
A. Body to Ground Distance  
B. Front of Vehicle  
When using a weight-distributing hitch, the hitch must  
be adjusted so the distance remains the same both  
before and after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle.  
If you use a step-bumper hitch, the bumper could  
be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample  
room when turning to avoid contact between the  
trailer and the bumper.  
4-59  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If you will be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will  
weigh more than 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) be sure to use a  
properly mounted weight-distributing hitch and sway  
control of the proper size. This equipment is very  
important for proper vehicle loading and good handling  
when driving. Always use a sway control if the trailer  
will weigh more than these limits. You can ask a  
hitch dealer about sway controls.  
Trailer Brakes  
If your trailer weighs more than 1,500 lbs (680 kg)  
loaded, then it needs its own brakes — and they must  
be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions  
for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust  
and maintain them properly.  
Your trailer’s brake system can tap into the vehicle’s  
hydraulic brake system only if:  
Safety Chains  
The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi  
(20 650 kPa) of pressure.  
You should always attach chains between your vehicle  
and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the  
tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from  
contacting the road if it becomes separated from  
the hitch.  
The trailer’s brake system will use less than  
0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle’s  
master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems  
won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.  
Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the  
hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer.  
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching  
safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper.  
Always leave just enough slack so you can turn  
with your rig. Never allow safety chains to drag on  
the ground.  
If everything checks out this far, then make the brake  
fluid tap at the port on the master cylinder that  
sends fluid to the rear brakes. But don’t use copper  
tubing for this. If you do, it will bend and finally break off.  
Use steel brake tubing.  
4-60  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.  
Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get  
to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of  
handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.  
And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are  
driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as  
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.  
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 2-35. To maximize your safety  
when towing a trailer:  
Before you start, check all trailer hitch parts and  
attachments, safety chains, electrical connection, lamps,  
tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric  
brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then  
apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure  
the brakes are working. This lets you check your  
electrical connection at the same time.  
Have your exhaust system inspected for  
leaks and make necessary repairs before  
starting on your trip.  
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the  
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer  
brakes are still working.  
Keep the rear-most windows closed.  
If exhaust does come into your vehicle  
through a window in the rear or another  
opening, drive with your front, main  
heating or cooling system on and with the  
fan on any speed. This will bring fresh,  
outside air into your vehicle. Do not use  
the climate control setting for maximum air  
because it only recirculates the air inside  
your vehicle. See Dual Climate Control  
System on page 3-20 or Dual Automatic  
Climate Control System on page 3-23.  
4-61  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Following Distance  
Making Turns  
Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering  
could cause the trailer to come in contact with the  
vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid  
making very sharp turns while trailering.  
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as  
you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer.  
This can help you avoid situations that require  
heavy braking and sudden turns.  
When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than  
normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders,  
curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or  
sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.  
Passing  
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.  
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer  
The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever  
you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up,  
the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers  
you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop.  
Backing Up  
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.  
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand  
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your  
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible,  
have someone guide you.  
When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument  
panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer  
are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind  
you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’s  
important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer  
bulbs are still working.  
4-62  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Driving On Grades  
Parking on Hills  
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start  
down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift  
down, you might have to use your brakes so much that  
they would get hot and no longer work well.  
{CAUTION:  
You really should not park your vehicle, with a  
trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes  
wrong, your rig could start to move. People  
can be injured, and both your vehicle and the  
trailer can be damaged.  
You can tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the  
transmission to THIRD (3) or a lower gear, under heavy  
loads or hilly conditions.  
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. If you do get  
the overheat warning, see Engine Overheating on  
page 5-26.  
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s  
how to do it:  
1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into  
PARK (P) yet. When parking uphill, turn your wheels  
away from the curb. When parking downhill, turn  
your wheels into the curb.  
2. Have someone place chocks under the  
trailer wheels.  
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the  
regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.  
4-63  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your  
parking brake, and then shift into PARK (P).  
When You Are Ready to Leave After  
Parking on a Hill  
1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down  
while you:  
5. Release the regular brakes.  
start your engine,  
{CAUTION:  
shift into a gear, and  
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.  
release the parking brake.  
2. Let up on the brake pedal.  
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks.  
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.  
4. Stop and have someone pick up and store  
the chocks.  
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(s), 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.  
Always put the shift lever fully in PARK (P) with  
the parking brake firmly set.  
If the transfer case on four-wheel drive vehicles  
is in NEUTRAL, your vehicle will be free to roll,  
even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be  
sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — not in  
NEUTRAL.  
See Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-27.  
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts  
are tight.  
4-64  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Brown: Running Lamps  
White: Ground  
Trailer Wiring Harness  
Light Green: Back-up Lamps  
Dark Blue: Electric Brakes  
Red: Battery Feed (The chassis wiring ring  
terminal must be fastened to a stud on the  
underhood electrical center before the trailer feed  
will become active.)  
If you need to tow a light-duty trailer with a standard  
four-way round pin connector, an adapter connector is  
available from your dealer.  
Your vehicle may also be equipped with wiring for an  
electric trailer brake controller. These wires are located  
inside the vehicle on the driver’s side under the  
instrument panel. These wires should be connected to  
an electric trailer brake controller by your dealer or  
a qualified service center.  
Your vehicle may be equipped with the seven-wire  
trailer towing harness. This harness has a seven-pin  
universal heavy-duty trailer connector that is attached to  
a bracket on the hitch platform. The seven-wire  
harness contains the following trailer circuits:  
Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal  
Dark Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal  
4-65  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
NOTES  
4-66  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Section 5  
Service and Appearance Care  
5-1  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Section 5  
Service and Appearance Care  
5-2  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
California Proposition 65 Warning  
Service  
Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain and/or  
emit chemicals known to the State of California to  
cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive  
harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and systems  
(including some inside the vehicle), many fluids, and  
some component wear by-products contain and/or emit  
these chemicals.  
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.  
We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all GM.  
Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:  
5-3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Doing Your Own Service Work  
{CAUTION:  
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. To order the proper service manual,  
page 7-11.  
You can be injured and your vehicle could be  
damaged if you try to do service work on a  
vehicle without knowing enough about it.  
Be sure you have sufficient knowledge,  
experience, the proper replacement parts,  
and tools before you attempt any vehicle  
maintenance task.  
Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting  
to do your own service work, see Servicing Your  
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-66.  
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.  
You should keep a record with all parts receipts and  
list the mileage and the date of any service work  
you perform. See Maintenance Record on page 6-15.  
5-4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Adding Equipment to the Outside  
of Your Vehicle  
Gasoline Octane  
Use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane  
of 87 or higher. If the octane is less than 87, you may get  
a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If this occurs,  
use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as  
possible. Otherwise, you might damage your engine.  
A little pinging noise when you accelerate or drive uphill is  
considered normal. This does not indicate a problem  
exists or that a higher-octane fuel is necessary. If you are  
using 87 octane or higher-octane fuel and hear heavy  
knocking, your engine needs service.  
Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle  
can affect the airflow around it. This may cause  
wind noise and affect windshield washer performance.  
Check with your dealer before adding equipment to  
the outside of your vehicle.  
Fuel  
Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of  
the proper maintenance of your vehicle.  
Gasoline Specifications  
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/fuel_charter.htm.  
Gasoline meeting these specifications could provide  
improved driveability and emission control system  
performance compared to other gasoline.  
5-5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
California Fuel  
Additives  
If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission  
Standards, it is designed to operate on fuels that  
meet California specifications. See the underhood  
emission control label. If this fuel is not available  
in states adopting California emissions standards,  
your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting  
federal specifications, but emission control system  
performance may be affected. The malfunction  
indicator lamp may turn on and your vehicle may fail  
a smog-check test. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp  
on page 3-41. If this occurs, return to your authorized  
GM dealer for diagnosis. If it is determined that the  
condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs  
may not be covered by your warranty.  
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States  
are now required to contain additives that will help  
prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming,  
allowing your emission control system to work  
properly. In most cases, you should not have to add  
anything to your fuel. However, some gasolines contain  
only the minimum amount of additive required to  
meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.  
General Motors recommends that you buy gasolines  
that are advertised to help keep fuel injectors and intake  
valves clean. If your vehicle experiences problems  
due to dirty injectors or valves, try a different brand of  
gasoline. Also, your GM dealer has additives that  
will help correct and prevent most deposit-related  
problems.  
Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and  
ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in  
your area to contribute to clean air. General Motors  
recommends that you use these gasolines, particularly if  
they comply with the specifications described earlier.  
5-6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that  
contains methanol. Do not use fuel containing  
methanol. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel  
system and also damage the plastic and rubber  
parts. That damage would not be covered under  
your warranty.  
Fuels in Foreign Countries  
If you plan on driving in another country outside the  
United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard  
to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel  
not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly  
repairs caused by use of improper fuel would not  
be covered by your warranty.  
Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low  
emissions may contain an octane-enhancing additive  
called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl  
(MMT); ask the attendant where you buy gasoline  
whether the fuel contains MMT. General Motors does  
not recommend the use of such gasolines. Fuels  
containing MMT can reduce the life of spark plugs and  
the performance of the emission control system may  
be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on.  
If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for  
service.  
To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or  
contact a major oil company that does business in the  
country where you will be driving.  
5-7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Filling the Tank  
{CAUTION:  
Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel fire can  
cause bad injuries. To help avoid injuries to  
you and others, read and follow all the  
instructions on the pump island. Turn off your  
engine when you are refueling. Do not smoke  
if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle.  
Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials  
away from fuel. Do not leave the fuel pump  
unattended when refueling your vehicle — this  
is against the law in some places. Keep  
children away from the fuel pump; never let  
children pump fuel.  
The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged fuel  
door on the driver’s side of the vehicle.  
To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly counterclockwise.  
While refueling, hang the tethered fuel cap from the  
hook on the fuel door.  
5-8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
There may also be a light that comes on in the  
instrument panel to let you know if your gas cap is  
not properly installed. See Check Gas Cap Light  
on page 3-48 for more information.  
{CAUTION:  
If you spill fuel and then something ignites it,  
you could be badly burned. Fuel can spray out  
on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly.  
This spray can happen if your tank is nearly  
full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open  
the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise  
to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.  
{CAUTION:  
If a fire starts while you are refueling, do not  
remove the nozzle. Shut off the flow of fuel  
by shutting off the pump or by notifying the  
station attendant. Leave the area immediately.  
Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not top off or overfill the  
tank and wait a few seconds after you have finished  
pumping before removing the nozzle. Clean fuel  
from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See  
Washing Your Vehicle on page 5-85.  
Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get  
the right type. Your dealer can get one for you.  
If you get the wrong type, it may not fit properly.  
This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to  
light and may damage your fuel tank and emissions  
page 3-41.  
When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it  
clicks. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The  
diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has  
been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel  
to evaporate into the atmosphere. See Malfunction  
Indicator Lamp on page 3-41.  
5-9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Filling a Portable Fuel Container  
Checking Things Under  
the Hood  
{CAUTION:  
{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:  
Things that burn can get on hot engine parts  
and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel,  
oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer  
and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or  
others could be burned. Be careful not to drop  
or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.  
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.  
Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the  
inside of the fill opening before operating  
the nozzle. Contact should be maintained  
until the filling is complete.  
Do not smoke while pumping gasoline.  
5-10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Hood Release  
1. To open the hood,  
first pull the handle  
with this symbol on it.  
It is located inside  
the vehicle under the  
instrument panel on  
the driver’s side.  
2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the  
secondary hood release.  
3. Lift the hood, release the prop rod from its retainer  
and put the prop rod into the slot in the hood.  
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are  
on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on  
the prop rod. Remove the prop rod from its slot in  
the hood and return the prop to its retainer. Lower the  
hood 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) above the vehicle and  
release it to latch fully. Check to make sure the hood  
is closed and repeat the process if necessary.  
5-11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Engine Compartment Overview  
When you open the hood on the 4.2L L6 engine, here is what you will see:  
5-12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air  
Cleaner/Filter on page 5-19.  
G. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Radiator Pressure Cap  
on page 5-26.  
B. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank. See Cooling System  
on page 5-28.  
H. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil”  
under Engine Oil on page 5-15.  
C. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding  
Washer Fluid” under Windshield Washer Fluid  
on page 5-34.  
I. Remote Negative () Terminal (Marked GND).  
See Jump Starting on page 5-39.  
J. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid”  
D. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. See Power Steering  
Fluid on page 5-34.  
under Brakes on page 5-35.  
K. Battery. See Battery on page 5-38.  
E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (Out of View).  
See “Checking the Fluid Level” under Automatic  
Transmission Fluid on page 5-21.  
L. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. See Engine  
Compartment Fuse Block on page 5-92.  
F. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil”  
under Engine Oil on page 5-15.  
5-13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
When you open the hood on the 5.3L V8 engine, here is what you will see:  
5-14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
A. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank. See Cooling System  
on page 5-28.  
Engine Oil  
B. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air  
Cleaner/Filter on page 5-19.  
Checking Engine Oil  
It is a good idea to check your engine oil every time you  
get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil  
must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.  
C. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding  
Washer Fluid” under Windshield Washer Fluid  
on page 5-34.  
The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See  
Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for  
the location of the engine oil dipstick.  
D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil”  
under Engine Oil on page 5-15.  
E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick. See  
“Checking the Fluid Level” under Automatic  
Transmission Fluid on page 5-21.  
1. Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes  
to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this,  
the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.  
F. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil”  
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel  
or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it  
again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.  
under Engine Oil on page 5-15.  
G. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Radiator Pressure Cap  
on page 5-26.  
H. Remote Negative () Terminal (Marked GND).  
See Jump Starting on page 5-39.  
I. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. See Power Steering  
Fluid on page 5-34.  
J. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid”  
under Brakes on page 5-35.  
K. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. See Engine  
Compartment Fuse Block on page 5-92.  
L. Battery. See Battery on page 5-38.  
5-15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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 5-103.  
When to Add Engine Oil  
Notice: Do not add too much oil. If your engine  
has so much oil that the oil level gets above  
the cross-hatched area (F) that shows the proper  
operating range for the L6 engine or above the  
cross-hatched area for the V8 engine, your engine  
could be damaged.  
Overview on page 5-12 for  
the location of the  
L6 Engine  
engine oil fill cap.  
V8 Engine  
Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere  
in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all  
the way back in when you are through.  
If the oil is below the L mark for the L6 engine or the  
cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick for the V8  
engine, you will need to add at least one quart/liter of oil.  
5-16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
These numbers on an oil container show its  
viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity  
oils such as SAE 20W-50.  
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use  
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).  
You should look for this information on the oil container,  
and use only those oils that are identified as meeting  
GM Standard GM6094M and have the starburst symbol  
on the front of the oil container.  
Look for two things:  
GM6094M  
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.  
Your vehicle’s engine requires oil meeting GM  
Standard GM6094M. You should look for and use  
only an oil that meets GM Standard GM6094M.  
SAE 5W-30  
GM Goodwrench® oil meets all the requirements for  
your vehicle.  
As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is  
best for your vehicle.  
5-17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the  
temperature falls below 20°F (29°C), it is  
recommended that you use either an SAE 5W-30  
synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil. Both will provide  
easier cold starting and better protection for your  
engine at extremely low temperatures.  
When the system has calculated that oil life has  
been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is  
necessary. A change engine oil light will come on.  
See Change Engine Oil Light on page 3-45. Change  
your oil as soon as possible within the next 600 miles  
(1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving  
under the best conditions, the oil life system may not  
indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year.  
However, your engine oil and filter must be changed  
at least once a year and at this time the system must be  
reset. Your dealer has GM-trained people who will  
perform this work using genuine GM parts and reset the  
system. It is also important to check your oil regularly  
and keep it at the proper level.  
Engine Oil Additives  
Do not add anything to your oil. The recommended  
oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard  
GM6094M are all you will need for good performance  
and engine protection.  
Engine Oil Life System  
If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must  
change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your  
last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system  
whenever the oil is changed.  
When to Change Engine Oil  
Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you  
know when to change the engine oil and filter. This is  
based on engine revolutions and engine temperature,  
and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions,  
the mileage at which an oil change will be indicated  
can vary considerably. For the oil life system to  
work properly, you must reset the system every time  
the oil is changed.  
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life  
System  
The Engine 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.  
5-18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To reset the change engine oil light, do the following:  
1. Turn the ignition key to RUN with the engine off.  
Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you  
change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the  
filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it  
in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into  
streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by  
taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a  
problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask  
your dealer, a service station or a local recycling  
center for help.  
2. Fully press and release the accelerator pedal slowly  
three times within five seconds.  
3. Turn the key to LOCK.  
If the change engine oil light comes back on when you  
start your vehicle, the engine oil life system has not  
reset. Repeat the procedure.  
For vehicles with the Driver Information Center, see  
Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-49 to reset  
the system.  
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter  
Overview on page 5-12  
for the location of the  
What to Do with Used Oil  
Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be  
unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer.  
Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean  
your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good  
hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or  
rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer’s  
warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.  
engine air cleaner/filter.  
5-19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
3. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter.  
4. Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws.  
When to Inspect the Engine  
Air Cleaner/Filter  
Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the Maintenance II  
intervals and replace at the first oil change after each  
50,000 mile (83 000 km) interval. See Scheduled  
Maintenance on page 6-4 for more information. If you  
are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter  
at each engine oil change.  
{CAUTION:  
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter  
off can cause you or others to be burned.  
The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps  
to stop flame if the engine backfires. If it is  
not there and the engine backfires, you could  
be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be  
careful working on the engine with the air  
cleaner/filter off.  
How to Inspect the Engine  
Air Cleaner/Filter  
To inspect the air cleaner/filter remove the filter from the  
vehicle and lightly shake the filter to release loose  
dust and dirt. If the filter remains caked with dirt, a new  
filter is required.  
To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter, do the  
following:  
Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire  
can cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt  
can easily get into your engine, which will damage  
it. Always have the air cleaner/filter in place  
when you are driving.  
1. Remove the screws on the engine air cleaner/filter  
and lift off the cover.  
2. Remove the air cleaner/filter from the housing. Care  
should be taken to dislodge as little dirt as possible.  
5-20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the  
transmission fluid level if you have been driving:  
Automatic Transmission Fluid  
When to Check and Change Automatic  
Transmission Fluid  
When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C).  
At high speed for quite a while.  
In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather.  
While pulling a trailer.  
A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid  
level is when the engine oil is changed.  
Change the fluid and filter at the intervals listed in  
Additional Required Services on page 6-6, and be sure  
to use the transmission fluid listed in Recommended  
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.  
To get the right reading, the fluid should be at  
normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F  
(82°C to 93°C).  
Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about  
How to Check Automatic Transmission  
Fluid  
15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above  
50°F (10°C). If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), drive  
the vehicle in THIRD (3) until the engine temperature  
gage moves and then remains steady for 10 minutes.  
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may  
choose to have this done at the dealership service  
department.  
A cold fluid check can be made after the vehicle  
has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine  
off, but this is used only as a reference. Let the  
engine run at idle for five minutes if outside  
temperatures are 50°F (10°C) or more. If it is colder  
than 50°F (10°C), you may have to idle the engine  
longer. Should the fluid level be low during this cold  
check, you must check the fluid hot before adding fluid.  
Checking the fluid hot will give you a more accurate  
reading of the fluid level.  
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. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you  
check your transmission fluid.  
5-21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for  
more information on location.  
Checking the Fluid Level  
Prepare your vehicle as follows:  
1. Flip the handle up and then pull out the dipstick  
and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.  
Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the  
engine running.  
2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and  
then pull it back out again.  
With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever  
in PARK (P).  
With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift  
lever through each gear range, pausing for about  
three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift  
lever in PARK (P).  
Let the engine run at idle for three minutes or more.  
Then, without shutting off the engine, follow  
these steps:  
The automatic  
transmission dipstick  
handle with the  
transmission and lock  
symbol is located in the  
engine compartment  
on the passenger’s side  
of the vehicle.  
3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower  
level. The fluid level must be in the COLD area,  
below the cross-hatched area, for a cold check or in  
the HOT or cross-hatched area for a hot check.  
Be sure to keep the dipstick pointed down to get an  
accurate reading.  
4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the  
dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle  
down to lock the dipstick in place.  
5-22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
How to Add Automatic  
Transmission Fluid  
Engine Coolant  
The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with  
DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed  
to remain in your vehicle for five years or 150,000 miles  
(240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only  
DEX-COOL® extended life coolant.  
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what  
kind of transmission fluid to use. See Recommended  
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.  
Add fluid only after checking the transmission fluid while  
it is hot. A cold check is used only as a reference. If  
the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid  
to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check.  
It does not take much fluid, generally less than one pint  
(0.5 L). Do not overfill.  
The following explains your cooling system and how to  
add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem  
with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating on  
page 5-26.  
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and  
DEX-COOL® coolant will:  
Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission  
fluid may damage your vehicle, and the damages  
may not be covered by your warranty. Always  
use the automatic transmission fluid listed in  
Give freezing protection down to 34°F (37°C).  
Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).  
Protect against rust and corrosion.  
After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as  
described under “How to Check Automatic  
Transmission Fluid,” earlier in this section.  
Help keep the proper engine temperature.  
Let the warning lights and gages work as  
they should.  
When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the  
dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle  
down to lock the dipstick in place.  
Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may  
cause premature engine, heater core or radiator  
corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may  
require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km)  
or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any repairs  
would not be covered by your warranty. Always use  
DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.  
5-23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If you have to add coolant more than four times a year,  
have your dealer check your cooling system.  
What to Use  
Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and  
one-half DEX-COOL® coolant. If you use this coolant  
mixture, you do not need to add anything else.  
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.  
Checking Coolant  
{CAUTION:  
The engine coolant  
recovery tank is in the  
engine compartment  
on the passenger’s side  
of the vehicle. The cap  
has this symbol on it.  
Overview on page 5-12  
for more information  
on location.  
Adding only plain water to your cooling  
system can be dangerous. Plain water, or  
some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil  
before the proper coolant mixture will. Your  
vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the  
proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the  
wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot  
but you would not get the overheat warning.  
Your engine could catch fire and you or others  
could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,  
drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant.  
The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your  
engine is cold, the coolant level should be at FULL  
COLD, or a little higher.  
Notice: If you use an improper coolant mixture,  
your engine could overheat and be badly damaged.  
The repair cost would not be covered by your  
warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze  
and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and  
other parts.  
5-24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Adding Coolant  
If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL®  
coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank.  
{CAUTION:  
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot  
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol,  
and it will burn if the engine parts are hot  
enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.  
{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.  
Occasionally check the coolant level in the radiator.  
For information on how to add coolant to the radiator,  
see Cooling System on page 5-28.  
Add coolant mixture at the recovery tank, but be careful  
not to spill it.  
5-25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine  
Radiator Pressure Cap  
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.  
{CAUTION:  
Steam from an overheated engine can burn  
you badly, even if you just open the hood.  
Stay away from the engine if you see or hear  
steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get  
everyone away from the vehicle until it cools  
down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or  
coolant before you open the hood.  
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for  
information on location.  
Engine Overheating  
You will find a coolant temperature gage on your  
vehicle’s instrument panel. See Engine Coolant  
Temperature Gage on page 3-40 for more information.  
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 your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC),  
the display will show an Engine Coolant Hot/Engine  
Overheated message. See DIC Warnings and Messages  
on page 3-53 for more information.  
Notice: If your engine catches fire because you  
keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can  
be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not  
be covered by your warranty.  
5-26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can  
drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes.  
If the warning does not come back on, you can  
drive normally.  
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:  
If the warning continues and you have not stopped, pull  
over, stop, and park your vehicle right away.  
Climb a long hill on a hot day.  
Stop after high-speed driving.  
Idle for long periods in traffic.  
Tow a trailer.  
If there is still no sign of steam, you can push down the  
accelerator until the engine speed is about twice as  
fast as normal idle speed for at least three minutes while  
you are parked. If you still have the warning, turn off  
the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it  
cools down.  
If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam,  
try this for a minute or so:  
You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service  
help right away.  
1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in NEUTRAL (N)  
while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road,  
shift to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and let the  
engine idle.  
2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan  
speed and open the windows as necessary.  
5-27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Cooling System  
When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is what  
you will see:  
5.3L V8 Engine  
A. Coolant Recovery Tank  
B. Radiator Pressure Cap  
C. Engine Fan  
4.2L L6 Engine  
If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is  
boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down.  
The vehicle should be parked on a level surface.  
A. Coolant Recovery Tank  
B. Radiator Pressure Cap  
C. Engine Fan  
5-28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The coolant level should  
be at least up to the FULL  
COLD mark. If it is not,  
you may have a leak at the  
pressure cap or in the  
radiator hoses, heater  
hoses, radiator, water  
If there seems to be no leak, start the engine again.  
The engine cooling fan speed should increase when idle  
speed is doubled by pushing the accelerator pedal  
down. If it does not, your vehicle needs service. Turn off  
the engine.  
Notice: Engine damage from running your engine  
without coolant is not covered by your warranty.  
pump, or somewhere else  
in the cooling system.  
Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may  
cause premature engine, heater core or radiator  
corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may  
require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km)  
or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any repairs  
would not be covered by your warranty. Always use  
DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.  
{CAUTION:  
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine  
parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them.  
If you do, you can be burned.  
Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you  
run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That  
could cause an engine fire, and you could be  
burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the  
vehicle.  
5-29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack  
the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.  
Use the recommended coolant and the proper  
coolant mixture.  
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant  
Recovery Tank  
If you have not found a problem yet, but the coolant  
level is not at the FULL COLD mark, add a  
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL®  
engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. See  
Engine Coolant on page 5-23 for more information.  
{CAUTION:  
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot  
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol  
and it will burn if the engine parts are hot  
enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.  
{CAUTION:  
Adding only plain water to your cooling  
system can be dangerous. Plain water, or  
some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil  
before the proper coolant mixture will. Your  
vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the  
proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the  
wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot  
but you would not get the overheat warning.  
Your engine could catch fire and you or others  
could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,  
drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant.  
When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the  
FULL COLD mark, start your vehicle.  
5-30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
If the overheat warning continues, there is one more  
thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant  
mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling  
system is cool before you do it.  
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator  
{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.  
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  
about one full turn. If you hear a hiss, wait for  
that to stop. A hiss means there is still some  
pressure left.  
2. Then keep turning the pressure cap. Remove the  
pressure cap.  
5-31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL®  
coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler  
neck. See Engine Coolant on page 5-23 for more  
information about the proper coolant mixture.  
4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL  
COLD mark.  
5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank,  
but leave the radiator pressure cap off.  
5-32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Engine Fan Noise  
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 clutch is not engaged. This improves fuel  
economy and reduces fan noise. Under heavy vehicle  
loading, trailer towing, and/or high outside temperatures,  
the fan speed increases when the clutch engages so  
you may hear an increase in fan noise. This is normal  
and should not be mistaken as the transmission slipping  
or making extra shifts. It is merely the cooling system  
functioning properly. The fan will slow down when  
additional cooling is not required and the clutch  
disengages.  
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.  
You may also hear this fan noise when you start the  
engine. It will go away as the fan clutch disengages.  
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.  
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. Be sure  
the pressure cap is hand-tight and fully seated.  
5-33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
3. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a  
clean rag.  
Power Steering Fluid  
4. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.  
Overview on page 5-12 for  
reservoir location.  
5. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level  
on the dipstick.  
For vehicles with the 4.2L L6 engine, the level  
should be at the C (Cold) mark. For vehicles with the  
5.3L V8 engine, the level should be at the FULL mark.  
If necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level  
up to the mark.  
What to Use  
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see  
Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper  
fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.  
When to Check Power Steering Fluid  
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.  
Windshield Washer Fluid  
What to Use  
How to Check Power Steering Fluid  
When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to  
read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you  
will be operating your vehicle in an area where the  
temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has  
sufficient protection against freezing.  
To check the power steering fluid, do the following:  
1. Turn the key off and let the engine compartment  
cool down.  
2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.  
5-34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Adding Washer Fluid  
Brakes  
Open the cap with the  
washer symbol on it.  
Add washer fluid until the  
tank is full. See Engine  
on page 5-12 for reservoir  
location.  
Brake Fluid  
Your brake master cylinder  
reservoir is filled with  
DOT-3 brake fluid. See  
Overview on page 5-12  
for the location of the  
reservoir.  
Notice:  
When using concentrated washer fluid, follow  
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.  
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level  
in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake  
fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal  
brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid  
level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is  
leaking out of the brake system. 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.  
Fill your washer fluid tank only three-quarters full  
when it is very cold. This allows for expansion if  
freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if  
it is completely full.  
Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your  
windshield washer. It can damage your washer  
system and paint.  
5-35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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. You should  
add or remove brake fluid, as necessary, only when  
work is done on the brake hydraulic system.  
Checking Brake Fluid  
You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap.  
Look at the brake fluid  
reservoir. The fluid level  
should be above MIN.  
If it is not, have your brake  
system checked to see  
if there is a leak.  
{CAUTION:  
If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on  
the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is  
hot enough. You or others could be burned,  
and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake  
fluid only when work is done on the brake  
hydraulic system. See “Checking Brake Fluid”  
in this section.  
After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make  
sure the level is above the MIN, but not over the  
MAX mark.  
What to Add  
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when  
to check your brake fluid. See Scheduled Maintenance  
on page 6-4.  
When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake  
fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container  
page 6-12.  
5-36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
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.  
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:  
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.  
{CAUTION:  
The brake wear warning sound means that  
soon your brakes will not work well. That  
could lead to an accident. When you hear the  
brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle  
serviced.  
Notice:  
Using the wrong fluid can badly damage  
brake system parts. For example, just a  
few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine  
oil, in your brake system can damage brake  
system parts so badly that they will have to  
be replaced. Do not let someone put in the  
wrong kind of fluid.  
Notice: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake  
pads could result in costly brake repair.  
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake  
squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly  
applied. This does not mean something is wrong with  
your brakes.  
If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted  
surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be  
careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If  
you do, wash it off immediately. See Appearance  
Care on page 5-81.  
5-37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help  
prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect  
brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in  
the proper sequence to GM torque specifications.  
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. For example, if someone puts in  
brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance  
between your front and rear brakes can change — for the  
worse. The braking performance you have come to  
expect can change in many other ways if someone puts  
in the wrong replacement brake parts.  
Brake linings should always be replaced as complete  
axle sets.  
Brake Pedal Travel  
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to  
normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in  
pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble.  
Battery  
Brake Adjustment  
Your vehicle has a maintenance free battery. When it is  
time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement  
number shown on the original battery’s label. We  
recommend an ACDelco® replacement battery. See  
Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for  
battery location.  
Every time you make a brake stop, your disc brakes  
adjust for wear.  
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.  
Warning: Battery posts, terminals and related  
accessories contain lead and lead compounds,  
chemicals known to the State of California to cause  
cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after  
handling.  
5-38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Vehicle Storage  
{CAUTION:  
If you are not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days  
or more, remove the black, negative () cable from  
the battery. This will help keep your battery from  
running down.  
Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous  
because:  
They contain acid that can burn you.  
They contain gas that can explode  
or ignite.  
{CAUTION:  
They contain enough electricity to  
burn you.  
Batteries have acid that can burn you and  
gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if  
you are not careful. See Jump Starting on  
page 5-39 for tips on working around a battery  
without getting hurt.  
If you do not follow these steps exactly, some  
or all of these things can hurt you.  
Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in costly  
damage to your vehicle that would not be covered  
by your warranty.  
Jump Starting  
Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it  
will not work, and it could damage your vehicle.  
If your vehicle’s battery has run down, you may want to  
use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start  
your vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do  
it safely.  
1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt  
battery with a negative ground system.  
Notice: If the other vehicle’s system is not a 12-volt  
system with a negative ground, both vehicles can  
be damaged. Only use vehicles with 12-volt systems  
with negative grounds to jump start your vehicle.  
5-39  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables  
can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching  
each other. If they are, it could cause a ground  
connection you do not want. You would not be able  
to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding  
could damage the electrical systems.  
remote terminal instead of the terminal on the  
battery. The remote negative () terminal is located  
on the front engine lift bracket on vehicles with  
the 4.2L L6 engine or the engine accessory drive  
bracket for vehicles with the 5.3L V8 engine, and is  
marked GND (Ground). See Engine Compartment  
Overview on page 5-12 for more information on  
location.  
To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set  
the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in  
the jump start procedure. Put an automatic  
transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission  
in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake. If  
you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure  
the transfer case is not in NEUTRAL.  
{CAUTION:  
Using a match near a battery can cause battery  
gas to explode. People have been hurt doing  
this, and some have been blinded. Use a  
flashlight if you need more light.  
Notice: If you leave your radio or other accessories  
on during the jump starting procedure, they could  
be damaged. The repairs would not be covered  
by your warranty. Always turn off your radio and  
other accessories when jump starting your vehicle.  
Be sure the battery has enough water. You do  
not need to add water to the battery installed  
in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler  
caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there.  
If it is low, add water to take care of that first.  
If you do not, explosive gas could be present.  
3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug  
unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette  
lighter or the accessory power outlets, if equipped.  
Turn off the radio and all lamps that are not  
needed. This will avoid sparks and help to save  
both batteries. And it could save the radio!  
Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you.  
Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it  
in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place  
with water and get medical help immediately.  
4. Open both hoods and locate the batteries. Find the  
positive (+) and negative () terminals on each  
battery. Your vehicle has a remote negative () jump  
starting terminal. You should always use this  
5-40  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
6. Connect the red  
positive (+) cable to the  
positive (+) terminal  
of the dead battery.  
Use a remote  
{CAUTION:  
Fans or other moving engine parts can injure  
you badly. Keep your hands away from moving  
parts once the engine is running.  
positive (+) terminal  
if the vehicle  
has one.  
5. Check that the jumper cables do not have loose or  
missing insulation. If they do, you could get a  
shock. The vehicles could be damaged too.  
Before you connect the cables, here are some  
basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to  
positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if  
the vehicle has one. Negative () will go to a heavy,  
unpainted metal engine part or to a remote  
7. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect it to  
the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a  
remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.  
negative () terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not  
connect positive (+) to negative () or you will  
get a short that would damage the battery and  
maybe other parts too. And do not connect  
the negative () cable to the negative () terminal  
on the dead battery because this can cause sparks.  
8. Now connect the black negative () cable to the  
negative () terminal of the good battery. Use a  
remote negative () terminal if the vehicle has one.  
Do not let the other end touch anything until the  
next step. The other end of the negative () cable  
does not go to the dead battery. It goes to a  
heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to the remote  
negative () terminal on the vehicle with the dead  
battery. Your vehicle has a remote negative ()  
terminal, marked GND, for this purpose.  
5-41  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or  
removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may  
occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would  
not be covered by your warranty. Always connect  
and remove the jumper cables in the correct  
order, making sure that the cables do not touch  
each other or other metal.  
4.2L L6 Engine  
5.3L V8 Engine  
The remote negative () terminal is located on the  
front engine lift bracket for the 4.2L L6 engine,  
and on the accessory drive bracket for the  
5.3L V8 engine.  
9. Connect the other end of the negative () cable to  
the remote negative () terminal on the vehicle with  
the dead battery.  
Jumper Cable Removal  
10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run  
the engine for a while.  
A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part or Remote  
Negative () Terminal  
B. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) and Remote  
Negative () Terminals  
C. Dead Battery or Remote Positive (+) Terminal  
11. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery.  
If it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs  
service.  
5-42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles,  
do the following:  
How to Check Lubricant  
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.  
Rear Axle  
When to Check Lubricant  
It is not necessary to regularly check rear axle fluid  
unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an  
unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem.  
Have it inspected and repaired.  
To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a  
level surface.  
The proper level is from 0 to 3/8 inch (0 to 10 mm)  
below the bottom of the filler plug hole.  
What to Use  
To determine what kind of lubricant to use, see  
5-43  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
What to Use  
Four-Wheel Drive  
To determine what kind of lubricant to use, see  
Transfer Case  
When to Check Lubricant  
It is not necessary to regularly check fluid unless you  
suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise.  
A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspected  
and repaired.  
Front Axle  
When to Check Lubricant  
It is not necessary to regularly check front axle fluid  
unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an  
unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem.  
Have it inspected and repaired.  
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. Add enough lubricant  
to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole.  
Use care not to overtighten the plug.  
5-44  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
How to Check Lubricant  
What to Use  
To determine what kind of lubricant to use, see  
Bulb Replacement  
For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see  
Replacement Bulbs on page 5-47.  
For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this  
section, contact your dealer.  
Halogen Bulbs  
{CAUTION:  
To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a  
level surface.  
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.  
If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole,  
you may need to add some lubricant.  
When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to  
raise the level to 1/2 inch (12 mm) below the filler  
plug hole.  
When the differential is at operating temperature  
(warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the  
bottom of the filler plug hole.  
5-45  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal,  
Sidemarker, and Parking Lamps  
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and  
Stoplamps  
To replace a headlamp, front turn signal/parking or  
sidemarker bulb, do the following:  
To replace a stoplamp/taillamp or turn signal bulb,  
do the following:  
1. Open the hood. Hood Release on page 5-11 for  
1. Open the liftgate. See Liftgate/Liftglass on  
page 2-13 for more information.  
more information.  
2. Lift the inner quick release clips.  
2. Remove the  
two screws from the  
taillamp assembly.  
3. Pull the headlamp assembly away from the vehicle.  
4. Remove the cover from the headlamp bulb.  
5. Disconnect the wiring harness.  
6. Remove the bulb that needs to be replaced by  
turning the socket counterclockwise.  
7. Replace the old bulb with a new one.  
8. Reinstall by reversing Steps 1 through 6.  
3. Pull the assembly away from the vehicle.  
5-46  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Back-Up Lamps  
The back-up lamps are located in the rear bumper.  
To replace a bulb, do the following:  
1. Reach behind the rear bumper and locate the  
bulb socket.  
2. Turn it counterclockwise to remove from the bulb  
assembly.  
3. Pull the bulb from the bulb socket.  
4. Push in a new bulb into the bulb socket.  
5. Reinstall the bulb socket by lining up the tabs in the  
lamp assembly and turn it clockwise to secure it.  
4. Unclip the wiring harness (A) and remove the three  
socket retaining screws (B).  
Replacement Bulbs  
Exterior Lamp  
Back-up Lamps  
Front Sidemarker Lamps  
Front Turn Signal Lamps  
Halogen Headlamps  
High-Beam  
Bulb Number  
3157  
5. Remove the socket by releasing the retaining tabs.  
6. Holding the socket, pull the bulb to release it  
from the socket.  
194  
3457  
7. Push the new bulb into the socket until it clicks.  
8. Reinstall the socket and screws.  
9005 HB3  
9006 HB4  
9. Reconnect the wiring harness.  
Low-Beam  
Rear Turn Signal, Stoplamp and  
Taillamp  
10. Reinstall the taillamp assembly and tighten the  
screws.  
3057  
11. Close the liftgate.  
For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact  
your dealer.  
5-47  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Windshield Wiper Blade  
Replacement  
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear  
or cracking. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4.  
Allowing the wiper blade arm to touch the windshield  
when no wiper blade is installed could damage the  
windshield. Any damage that occurs would not  
be covered by your warranty. Do not allow the wiper  
blade arm to touch the windshield.  
1. To remove the old wiper blades, lift the wiper arm  
until it locks into a vertical position.  
A. Blade Assembly  
B. Arm Assembly  
C. Locking Tab  
D. Blade Pivot  
E. Hook Slot  
F. Arm Hook  
2. Press down on the blade assembly pivot locking  
tab. Pull down on the blade assembly to release it  
from the wiper arm hook.  
3. Remove the insert from the blade assembly. The  
insert has two notches at one end that are locked  
by the bottom claws of the blade assembly. At the  
notched end, pull the insert from the blade assembly.  
5-48  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
4. To install the new wiper insert, slide the insert (D),  
notched end last, into the end with two blade  
claws (A). Slide the insert all the way through the  
blade claws at the opposite end (B). The plastic  
caps (C) will be forced off as the insert is fully  
inserted.  
A. Claw in Notch  
B. Correct Installation  
C. Incorrect Installation  
5. Be sure that the notches are locked by the bottom  
claws. Make sure that all other claws are properly  
locked on both sides of the insert slots.  
6. Put the blade assembly pivot in the wiper arm  
hook. Pull up until the pivot locking tab locks in  
the hook slot.  
7. Carefully lower the wiper arm and blade assembly  
onto the windshield.  
5-49  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Backglass Wiper Blade Replacement  
{CAUTION:  
for instructions on how to change the backglass wiper  
blade. The backglass wiper blade will not lock in a  
vertical position like the windshield wiper blade, so care  
should be used when pulling it away from the vehicle.  
Poorly maintained and improperly used tires  
are dangerous.  
Overloading your tires can cause  
overheating as a result of too much  
friction. You could have an air-out and a  
serious accident. See Loading Your  
Vehicle on page 4-43.  
Underinflated tires pose the same danger  
as overloaded tires. The resulting accident  
could cause serious injury. Check all tires  
frequently to maintain the recommended  
pressure. Tire pressure should be  
Tires  
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 Manual.  
checked when your tires are cold. See  
Overinflated tires are more likely to be  
cut, punctured or broken by a sudden  
impact — such as when you hit a pothole.  
Keep tires at the recommended pressure.  
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If  
your tread is badly worn, or if your tires  
have been damaged, replace them.  
5-50  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
(B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria  
Specification): Original equipment tires designed to  
GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a TPC  
specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM’s TPC  
specifications meet or exceed all federal safety  
guidelines.  
Tire Sidewall Labelling  
Useful information about a tire is molded into the  
sidewall. The following illustrations are examples of a  
typical P-Metric and a LT-Metric tire sidewall.  
(C) DOT (Department of Transportation): The  
Department of Transportation (DOT) code indicates that  
the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of  
Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.  
(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.  
(F) Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Tire  
manufacturers are required to grade tires based on  
three performance factors: treadwear, traction and  
temperature resistance. For more information, see  
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire  
(G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum  
load that can be carried and the maximum pressure  
needed to support that load. For information on  
recommended tire pressure see Inflation - Tire Pressure  
on page 5-56 and Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
(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.  
5-51  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal  
safety guidelines.  
(C) Dual Tire Maximum Load: Maximum load that  
can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to  
support that load when used in a dual configuration.  
For information on recommended tire pressure see  
Vehicle on page 4-43.  
(D) DOT (Department of Transportation): The  
Department of Transportation (DOT) code indicates that  
the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of  
Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.  
(E) 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.  
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire  
(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.  
(F) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of  
plies in the sidewall and under the tread.  
(G) Single Tire Maximum Load: Maximum load that  
can be carried and the maximum pressure needed  
to support that load when used as a single. For  
information on recommended tire pressure see  
Vehicle on page 4-43.  
(B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria  
Specification): Original equipment tires designed to  
GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a TPC  
specification code molded onto the sidewall.  
5-52  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
(A) Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: The United States  
version of a metric tire sizing system. The letters LT as  
the first two characters in the tire size means a light  
truck tire engineered to standards set by the U.S. Tire  
and Rim Association.  
Tire Size  
The following examples show the different parts of a  
tire size.  
(B) Tire Width: The three-digit number indicates the  
tire section width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall.  
(C) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that indicates  
the tire height-to-width measurements. For example,  
if the tire size aspect ratio is 75, as shown in item C  
of the light truck (LT-Metric) tire illustration, it would  
mean that the tire’s sidewall is 75% as high as it is wide.  
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire  
(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.  
(F) Service Description: The service description  
indicates the load range and speed rating of a tire.  
The load index can range from 1 to 279. Speed ratings  
range from A to Z.  
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire  
(A) Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: The United States  
version of a metric tire sizing system. The letter P as  
the first character in the tire size means a passenger  
vehicle tire engineered to standards set by the U.S. Tire  
and Rim Association.  
5-53  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Curb Weight: This means the weight of a motor  
vehicle with standard and optional equipment including  
the maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant, but  
without passengers and cargo.  
Tire Terminology and Definitions  
Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing  
outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure  
is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) or  
kilopascal (kPa).  
DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall of a  
tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the  
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) motor vehicle  
safety standards. The DOT code includes the Tire  
Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator  
which can also identify the tire manufacturer, production  
plant, brand and date of production.  
Accessory Weight: This means the combined weight  
of optional accessories. Some examples of optional  
accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering,  
power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air  
conditioning.  
GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, see Loading  
Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire’s height to  
its width.  
GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front  
axle, see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
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.  
GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle,  
see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by  
steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.  
Intended Outboard Sidewall: The side of an  
asymmetrical tire, that must always face outward when  
mounted on a vehicle.  
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.  
Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure.  
Cold Inflation Pressure: The amount of air pressure  
in a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi)  
or kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up heat from  
driving. See Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-56.  
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty  
trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles.  
5-54  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Load Index: An assigned number ranging from  
1 to 279 that corresponds to the load carrying capacity  
of a tire.  
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger  
cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose  
vehicles.  
Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum air  
pressure to which a cold tire may be inflated. The  
maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall.  
Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle  
manufacturer’s recommended tire inflation pressure and  
shown on the tire placard. See Inflation - Tire Pressure  
on page 5-56 and Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire at the  
maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.  
Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords  
that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the  
centerline of the tread.  
Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of curb  
weight; accessory weight; vehicle capacity weight;  
and production options weight.  
Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire  
beads are seated.  
Normal Occupant Weight: The number of occupants a  
vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 150 lbs (68 kg).  
See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and  
the bead.  
Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions.  
Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a  
tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire  
can operate.  
Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an  
asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces  
outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the  
tire that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering  
or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name  
molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings  
on the other sidewall of the tire.  
Traction: The friction between the tire and the road  
surface. The amount of grip provided.  
Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact  
with the road.  
5-55  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes  
called “wear bars,” that show across the tread of a tire  
when only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread remains. See  
Inflation - Tire Pressure  
Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate  
effectively.  
Notice: Do not let anyone tell you that  
under-inflation or over-inflation is all right. It is not.  
If your tires do not have enough air (under-inflation),  
you can get the following:  
UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards):  
A tire information system that provides consumers  
with ratings for a tire’s traction, temperature, and  
treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers  
using government testing procedures. The ratings are  
molded into the sidewall of the tire. See Uniform  
Tire Quality Grading on page 5-60.  
Too much flexing  
Too much heat  
Tire overloading  
Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of designated  
seating positions multiplied by 150 lbs (68 kg) plus  
the rated cargo load. See Loading Your Vehicle  
on page 4-43.  
Premature or irregular wear  
Poor handling  
Reduced fuel economy  
Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an  
individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight,  
occupant weight, and cargo weight.  
If your tires have too much air (over-inflation), you  
can get the following:  
Unusual wear  
Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a  
vehicle showing the vehicle’s capacity weight and  
the original equipment tire size and recommended  
inflation pressure. See “Tire and Loading Information  
Label” under Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43.  
Poor handling  
Rough ride  
Needless damage from road hazards  
5-56  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
A Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the  
vehicle’s center pillar (B-pillar), below the driver’s  
door latch. This label shows your vehicle’s original  
equipment tires and the correct inflation pressures for  
your tires when they are cold. The recommended  
cold tire inflation pressure, shown on the label, is the  
minimum amount of air pressure needed to support your  
vehicle’s maximum load carrying capacity.  
Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem. Press  
the tire gage firmly onto the valve to get a pressure  
measurement. If the cold tire inflation pressure matches  
the recommended pressure on the tire and loading  
information label, no further adjustment is necessary.  
If the pressure is low, add air until you reach the  
recommended amount.  
If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the  
metal stem in the center of the tire valve. Recheck the  
tire pressure with the tire gage.  
For additional information regarding how much weight  
your vehicle can carry, and an example of the tire  
and loading information label, see Loading Your Vehicle  
on page 4-43. How you load your vehicle affects  
vehicle handling and ride comfort, never load your  
vehicle with more weight than it was designed to carry.  
Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve  
stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt  
and moisture.  
When to Check  
Tire Inspection and Rotation  
Check your tires once a month or more.  
Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles  
(8 000 to 13 000 km).  
Also, check the tire pressure of the spare tire.  
Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as  
soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also  
check for damaged tires or wheels. See When It Is Time  
on page 5-62 for more information.  
How to Check  
Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire  
pressure. You cannot tell if your tires are properly  
inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look  
properly inflated even when they’re underinflated.  
Check the tire’s inflation pressure when the tires  
are cold. Cold means your vehicle has been sitting  
for at least three hours or driven no more than  
1 mile (1.6 km).  
Make sure the spare tire is stored securely. Push,  
pull, and then try to rotate or turn the tire. If it moves,  
use the wheel wrench to tighten the cable. For  
information on storing or removing the spare tire,  
see Changing a Flat Tire on page 5-66.  
5-57  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
{CAUTION:  
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to  
which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts  
become loose after a time. The wheel could  
come off and cause an accident. When you  
change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from  
places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle.  
In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a  
paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a  
scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get  
all the rust or dirt off. See Changing a Flat Tire  
on page 5-66.  
When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation  
pattern shown here.  
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and  
rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire and  
Loading Information label. See Loading Your Vehicle on  
page 4-43, for an example of the label and its location  
on your vehicle. Make certain that all wheel nuts  
are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” under  
5-58  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged  
deep enough to show cord or fabric.  
When It Is Time for New Tires  
One way to tell when it’s  
The tire has a bump, bulge or split.  
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.  
The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that  
can’t be repaired well because of the size or  
location of the damage.  
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 4-43.  
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. That way your vehicle will  
continue to have tires that are designed to give proper  
endurance, handling, speed rating, load range, traction,  
ride and other things during normal service on your  
vehicle. If your tires have an all-season tread design,  
the TPC number will be followed by an “MS” (for mud  
and snow).  
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.  
5-59  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If you replace your tires with those not having a TPC  
Spec number, make sure they are the same size,  
load range, speed rating and construction type (bias,  
bias-belted or radial) as your original tires.  
Uniform Tire Quality Grading  
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the  
tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum  
section width. For example:  
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A  
{CAUTION:  
The following information relates to the system  
developed by the United States National Highway  
Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by  
treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This  
applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.)  
The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most  
passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading  
system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type  
snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires,  
tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches  
(25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires.  
Mixing tires could cause you to lose control  
while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes  
or types (radial and bias-belted tires) the  
vehicle may not handle properly, and you  
could have a crash. Using tires of different  
sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle.  
Be sure to use the same size and type tires  
on all wheels.  
While the tires available on General Motors passenger  
cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these  
grades, they must also conform to federal safety  
requirements and additional General Motors Tire  
Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.  
{CAUTION:  
If you use bias-ply tires on your vehicle, the  
wheel rim flanges could develop cracks after  
many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel  
could fail suddenly, causing a crash. Use only  
radial-ply tires with the wheels on your vehicle.  
5-60  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which  
all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal  
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A  
represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory  
test wheel than the minimum required by law.  
Treadwear  
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. The relative performance of tires  
depends upon the actual conditions of their use,  
however, and may depart significantly from the norm  
due to variations in driving habits, service practices and  
differences in road characteristics and climate.  
Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is  
established for a tire that is properly inflated and not  
overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or  
excessive loading, either separately or in combination,  
can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.  
Traction – AA, A, B, C  
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A,  
B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability  
to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled  
conditions on specified government test surfaces of  
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor  
traction performance. Warning: The traction grade  
assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking  
traction tests, and does not include acceleration,  
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.  
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance  
The tires and wheels on your vehicle were aligned  
and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the  
longest tire life and best overall performance.  
Adjustments to wheel alignment and tire balancing will  
not be necessary on a regular basis. However, if  
you notice unusual tire wear or your vehicle pulling to  
one side or the other, the alignment may need to  
be checked. If you notice your vehicle vibrating when  
driving on a smooth road, your tires and wheels  
may need to be rebalanced. See your dealer for  
proper diagnosis.  
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  
5-61  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Wheel Replacement  
{CAUTION:  
Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked or badly rusted  
or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the  
wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts should be replaced.  
If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some  
aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired).  
See your dealer if any of these conditions exist.  
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.  
Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need.  
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying  
capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted  
the same way as the one it replaces.  
If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel  
bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM  
original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to  
have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts  
for your vehicle.  
Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems  
with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or  
odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height,  
vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire chain  
clearance to the body and chassis.  
See Changing a Flat Tire on page 5-66 for more  
information.  
5-62  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Used Replacement Wheels  
Tire Chains  
{CAUTION:  
{CAUTION:  
Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is  
dangerous. You cannot know how it has been  
used or how far it has been driven. It could fail  
suddenly and cause a crash. If you have to  
replace a wheel, use a new GM original  
equipment wheel.  
Do not use tire chains. There is not enough  
clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without  
the proper amount of clearance can cause  
damage to the brakes, suspension or other  
vehicle parts. The area 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, re-adjust or remove the  
device if it is contacting your vehicle, and do  
not spin your wheels. If you do find traction  
devices that will fit, install them on the  
rear tires.  
5-63  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To use the accessory inflator, do the following:  
Accessory Inflator  
1. Attach the appropriate nozzle adapter to the end of  
the hose if required.  
Your vehicle has an accessory inflator system. You can  
inflate things like basketballs and bicycle tires. You  
can also use it to bring your tire pressure up to  
the proper pressure. It is not designed to inflate large  
objects which will require more than five minutes  
to inflate, such as an air mattress.  
2. Attach that end of the hose to the object you wish  
to inflate.  
3. Attach the other end of the hose to the outlet.  
4. Press and release the switch to turn the air inflator  
on. The indicator light will remain on when the  
inflator is running.  
The accessory inflator is  
located in the rear  
compartment on the  
driver’s side of the vehicle  
behind an access cover,  
near the liftgate opening.  
The system has an internal clock to prevent  
overheating. The system will allow about five minutes  
of running time, then the compressor will stop. The  
indicator light will then begin to flash. When the  
indicator is off, the inflator can be started again by  
pressing the switch. If the compressor is still hot, it  
may only run for a short time before shutting  
off again.  
5. Press and release the switch to turn the inflator off.  
Place the inflator kit tools in the pouch and store it in  
its proper location. Remove the inflator hose from  
the outlet during loading and unloading. Load leveling  
will not function with the inflator hose attached to  
the inflator outlet. See “Electronically Controlled Air  
Suspension System” under Loading Your Vehicle  
on page 4-43 for more information.  
To remove the cover, push in on the tab to access  
the inflator.  
You may have an air inflator kit that is located in the  
glove compartment. It includes a 22 ft (6.7 m) hose with  
three nozzle adapters.  
5-64  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To reinstall the cover, line up the tabs at the back of the  
cover, put it in place and latch the tabs.  
A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a  
skid and may require the same correction you would;  
use in a skid. In any rear blowout, remove your foot from  
the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control  
by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may  
be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently  
brake to a stop, well off the road if possible.  
A continuous flashing indicator light may also indicate  
a malfunction in the air suspension system. See  
“Electronically Controlled Air Suspension System” under  
Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43 for more information.  
{CAUTION:  
{CAUTION:  
Inflating something too much can make it  
explode, and you or others could be injured. Be  
sure to read the inflator instructions, and inflate  
any object only to its recommended pressure.  
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.  
If a Tire Goes Flat  
It is unusual for a tire to blowout while you’re driving,  
especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes  
out of a tire, it is much more likely to leak out slowly.  
But if you should ever have a blowout, here are a  
few tips about what to expect and what to do:  
If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use your  
jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely.  
If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that  
pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the  
accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly.  
Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to  
a stop well out of the traffic lane.  
5-65  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Changing a Flat Tire  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage  
by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your  
hazard warning flashers.  
4. Turn off the engine and do not restart  
while the vehicle is raised.  
5. Do not allow passengers to remain in  
the vehicle.  
{CAUTION:  
6. Put the wheel blocks at the front and rear  
of the tire farthest away from the one  
being changed. That would be the tire on  
the other side, at the opposite end of the  
vehicle.  
Changing a tire can be dangerous. The vehicle  
can slip off the jack and roll over or fall on you  
or other people. You and they could be badly  
injured or even killed. Find a level place to  
change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle  
from moving:  
1. Set the parking brake firmly.  
2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P).  
3. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle,  
be sure the transfer case is in a drive  
gear — not in NEUTRAL.  
CAUTION: (Continued)  
5-66  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
When you have a flat tire, use the following example  
as a guide to assist you in the placement of  
wheel blocks.  
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools  
The jacking equipment you will need is stored under  
the rear seat (Envoy/Envoy Denali) or in the left  
rear quarter panel storage compartment  
(Envoy XL/Envoy XL Denali).  
The following information will tell you how to use the  
jack and change a tire.  
Envoy/Envoy Denali  
5-67  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The tools you will be using include the wheel wrench (A),  
wheel blocks (B), extension(s) (socket end) (C),  
handle (jack end) (D), and jack (E).  
Envoy XL/Envoy XL Denali  
The following instructions explain how to remove the  
underbody-mounted spare from underneath your vehicle.  
To release the jack from its holder, turn the knob on the  
jack counterclockwise to lower the jack head. See  
Rear Seat Operation on page 1-9 for more information.  
Notice: If you remove or restow a tire from/to the  
storage position under the vehicle when it is  
supported by a jack, you could damage the tire  
and/or your vehicle. Always remove or restow a tire  
when the vehicle is on the ground.  
5-68  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
3. Tilt the retainer at the end of the cable when the  
tire has been completely lowered, and pull it  
through the wheel opening. Pull the tire out from  
under the vehicle.  
Notice: If you drive away before the spare tire or  
secondary latch system cable has been reinstalled,  
you could damage your vehicle. Always reinstall  
this cable before driving your vehicle.  
4. Put the spare tire near the flat tire.  
1. Insert the socket end of the extension on a  
45 degree angle downward into the hoist drive shaft  
hole. It is exposed when the rear gate is open and is  
just above the rear bumper. Be sure the socket end  
of the extension connects to the hoist shaft.  
2. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the  
spare tire. Keep turning the wheel wrench until the  
spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle.  
If the spare tire does not lower to the ground, the  
secondary latch is engaged causing the tire  
not to lower. See Secondary Latch System on  
page 5-75 for more information.  
5. Position the chisel end of your wheel wrench in the  
notch of the center cap and pry off the center cap.  
5-69  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Removing the Flat Tire and  
Installing the Spare Tire  
1. Using the wheel  
wrench, loosen all the  
wheel nuts. Do not  
remove them yet.  
Front  
Rear  
A. Front Frame/Rear Axle  
B. Jack  
C. Handle  
D. Extension(s)  
E. Wheel Wrench  
2. Turn the jack adjusting knob clockwise by hand to  
raise the jack lift head.  
3. Place the handle, extension and wheel wrench onto  
the jack.  
4. Place the jack in the appropriate position nearest  
the flat tire.  
5-70  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
{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:  
5. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle  
clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the  
ground so there is enough room for the spare  
tire to fit.  
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.  
5-71  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
6. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.  
7. 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. In an emergency, you can use a cloth  
or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use  
a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to,  
to get all the rust or dirt off.  
8. Place the spare tire on the wheel-mounting surface.  
{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.  
5-72  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
9. Put the nuts on by  
hand. Make sure the  
rounded end is  
toward the wheel.  
10. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held  
against the hub. If a nut can’t be turned by hand,  
use the wheel wrench and see your dealer as  
soon as possible.  
11. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle  
counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.  
5-73  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead  
to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid  
expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel  
nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper  
torque specification. See Capacities and  
Specifications on page 5-103 for the wheel nut  
torque specification.  
{CAUTION:  
Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened  
wheel nuts can cause the wheel to come loose  
and even come off. This could lead to an  
accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel  
nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to  
get new GM original equipment wheel nuts.  
Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have  
the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to the  
proper torque specification. See Capacities  
and Specifications on page 5-103 for wheel nut  
torque specification.  
12. Use the wrench to  
tighten the wheel nuts  
firmly in a crisscross  
sequence as shown.  
5-74  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Secondary Latch System  
{CAUTION:  
Your vehicle has an underbody-mounted tire hoist  
assembly equipped with a secondary latch system.  
It is 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 stored with the valve stem pointing up. See Storing  
instructions on storing the spare or flat tire correctly.  
Before beginning this procedure read all the  
instructions. Failure to read and follow the  
instructions could damage the hoist assembly  
and you and others could get hurt. Read and  
follow the instructions listed below.  
{CAUTION:  
Someone standing too close during the  
procedure could be injured by the jack. If the  
spare tire does not slide off the jack completely,  
make sure no one is behind you or on either  
side of you as you pull the jack out from the  
spare.  
5-75  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To release the spare tire from the secondary latch,  
do the following:  
5. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until  
approximately 6 inches (15 cm) of cable is exposed.  
1. Check under the  
vehicle to see if the  
cable is visible. If it is  
not visible, proceed  
to Step 6.  
2. If visible, first try to tighten the cable by turning  
the wheel wrench clockwise until you hear  
two clicks or feel it skip twice. You cannot  
overtighten the cable.  
6. Attach the jack handle, extension(s) and the wheel  
wrench to the jack and place it under the vehicle  
towards the front of the rear bumper. Position  
the center lift point of the jack under the center of  
the spare tire.  
3. Loosen the cable by turning the wheel wrench  
counterclockwise three or four turns.  
7. Turn the wrench clockwise to raise the jack until it  
lifts the end fitting.  
4. Repeat this procedure at least two times.  
If the spare tire lowers to the ground, continue with  
page 5-67.  
8. Continue raising the jack until the spare tire stops  
moving upward and is held firmly in place. The  
secondary latch has released and the spare tire is  
balancing on the jack.  
5-76  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
9. Lower the jack by turning the wheel wrench  
counterclockwise. Keep lowering the jack until the  
spare tire slides off the jack or is hanging by  
the cable.  
10. Disconnect the jack handle from the jack and  
carefully remove the jack. Use one hand to push  
against the spare while firmly pulling the jack out  
from under the spare tire with the other hand.  
11. Tilt the retainer at the end of the cable and pull it  
through the wheel opening. Pull the tire out from  
under the vehicle.  
Notice: If you drive away before the spare tire or  
secondary latch system cable has been reinstalled,  
you could damage your vehicle. Always reinstall  
this cable before driving your vehicle.  
12. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the cable  
back up if the cable is hanging under the vehicle.  
Have the hoist assembly inspected as soon as you can.  
You will not be able to store a spare tire using the  
hoist assembly until it has been repaired or replaced.  
If the spare tire is hanging from the cable, insert  
the socket end of the extension connected to  
the wheel wrench into the hoist shaft hole in  
the bumper on a 45 degree angle downward.  
Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower  
the spare the rest of the way.  
5-77  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and  
Tools  
{CAUTION:  
The underbody-mounted spare tire needs to be  
stored with the valve stem pointing up. If the  
spare tire is stored with the valve stem pointing  
downward, its secondary latch won’t work  
properly and the spare tire could loosen and  
suddenly fall from your vehicle. If this happened  
when your vehicle was being driven, the tire  
might contact a person or another vehicle,  
causing injury and, of course, damage to itself  
as well. Be sure the underbody-mounted spare  
tire is stored with its valve stem pointing up.  
{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.  
Notice: An aluminum wheel with a flat tire should  
always be stored under the vehicle with the  
hoist. However, storing it that way for an extended  
period could damage the wheel. To avoid this,  
always stow the wheel properly with the valve stem  
pointing up and have the wheel repaired as soon  
as possible.  
5-78  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Follow this diagram to store the underbody-mounted  
spare.  
A. Wheel Wrench  
B. Hoist Shaft  
C. Extension(s)  
D. Retainer  
E. Spare or Flat Tire  
(Valve Stem  
Pointed Up)  
1. Put the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle,  
with the valve stem pointed up and to the rear.  
5. Make sure the tire is stored securely. Push, pull (A),  
and then try to turn (B) the tire. If the tire moves,  
use the wheel wrench and socket end of the  
extension to tighten the cable.  
2. Pull the retainer (D) through the wheel.  
3. Put the socket end of the extension (C), on an  
45 degree angle downward, through the hole in  
the rear bumper and into the hoist shaft (B).  
4. Raise the tire fully against the underside of the  
vehicle. Continue turning the wheel wrench (A)  
clockwise until you hear two clicks or feel it skip  
twice. This indicates that the tire is secure and the  
cable is tight. The spare tire hoist cannot be  
overtightened.  
5-79  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
6. Return the equipment to the proper location in the  
vehicle as shown next. Attach the tools in the slots  
provided. Roll up the instruction label and return  
it to the slot in the tool kit. Assemble the wheel  
blocks to the jack.  
For the Envoy XL, place the jack and wheel blocks in  
the wire bale. Turn the knob on the jack clockwise to  
raise the jack head.  
Envoy XL/Envoy XL Denali  
A. Instruction Label  
D. Extension(s)  
B. Handle  
C. Knob  
E. Wheel Blocks and Jack  
F. Wheel Wrench  
Envoy/Envoy Denali  
A. Handle  
B. Wheel Wrench  
C. Instruction Label  
D. Extension(s)  
E. Knob  
F. Wheel Blocks and Jack  
5-80  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Never use these to clean the vehicle:  
Benzene  
Spare Tire  
Your vehicle, when new, had a fully-inflated spare tire.  
A spare tire may lose air over time, so check its  
inflation pressure regularly. See Inflation - Tire Pressure  
on page 5-56 and Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-43  
for information regarding proper tire inflation and loading  
your vehicle. For instruction on how to remove, install  
or store a spare tire, see Removing the Flat Tire  
Naphtha  
Carbon Tetrachloride  
Acetone  
Paint Thinner  
Turpentine  
Lacquer Thinner  
Nail Polish Remover  
After installing the spare tire on your vehicle, you should  
stop as soon as possible and make sure the spare is  
correctly inflated. Have the damaged or flat road  
tire repaired or replaced as soon as you can and  
installed back onto your vehicle. This way, a spare tire  
will be available in case you need it again.  
They can all be hazardous — some more than  
others — and they can all damage the vehicle, too.  
Do not use any of these products unless this manual  
says you can. In many uses, these will damage the  
vehicle:  
Appearance Care  
Alcohol  
Cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic.  
Other cleaning products can burst into flames if a match  
is struck near them or if they get on a hot part of the  
vehicle. Some are dangerous if their fumes are inhaled  
in an enclosed space. When anything from a container  
is used to clean the vehicle, be sure to follow the  
manufacturer’s warnings and instructions. Always open  
the doors or windows of the vehicle when cleaning  
the inside.  
Laundry Soap  
Bleach  
Reducing Agents  
5-81  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Notice: If you use abrasive cleaners when cleaning  
glass surfaces on your vehicle, you could scratch  
the glass and/or cause damage to the rear window  
defogger. When cleaning the glass on your  
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle  
Your vehicle’s interior will continue to look its best  
if it is cleaned often. Although not always visible,  
dust and dirt can accumulate on your upholstery.  
Dirt can damage carpet, fabric, leather, and plastic  
surfaces. Regular vacuuming is recommended to  
remove particles from your upholstery. It is important to  
keep your upholstery from becoming and remaining  
heavily soiled. Soils should be removed as quickly  
as possible. Your vehicle’s interior may experience  
extremes of heat that could cause stains to set rapidly.  
vehicle, use only a soft cloth and glass cleaner.  
Many cleaners contain solvents that may become  
concentrated in your vehicle’s breathing space.  
Before using cleaners, read and adhere to all safety  
instructions on the label. While cleaning your vehicle’s  
interior, maintain adequate ventilation by opening  
your vehicle’s doors and windows.  
Dust may be removed from small buttons and knobs  
using a small brush with soft bristles.  
Lighter colored interiors may require more frequent  
cleaning. Use care because newspapers and garments  
that transfer color to your home furnishings may also  
transfer color to your vehicle’s interior.  
Your GM dealer has a product for cleaning your  
vehicle’s glass. Should it become necessary, you can  
also obtain a product from your GM dealer to remove  
odors from your vehicle’s upholstery.  
When cleaning your vehicle’s interior, only use cleaners  
specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned.  
Permanent damage may result from using cleaners  
on surfaces for which they were not intended. Use  
glass cleaner only on glass. Remove any accidental  
over-spray from other surfaces immediately. To prevent  
over-spray, apply cleaner directly to the cleaning  
cloth.  
5-82  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Do not clean your vehicle using the following cleaners  
or techniques:  
Fabric/Carpet  
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment  
frequently to remove dust and loose dirt. A canister  
vacuum with a beater bar in the nozzle may only  
be used on floor carpet and carpeted floor mats. For  
soils, always try to remove them first with plain water or  
club soda. Before cleaning, gently remove as much  
of the soil as possible using one of the following  
techniques:  
Never use a knife or any other sharp object to  
remove a soil from any interior surface.  
Never use a stiff brush. It can cause damage to  
your vehicle’s interior surfaces.  
Never apply heavy pressure or rub aggressively  
with a cleaning cloth. Use of heavy pressure  
can damage your interior and does not improve  
the effectiveness of soil removal.  
For liquids: gently blot the remaining soil with a  
paper towel. Allow the soil to absorb into the  
paper towel until no more can be removed.  
Use only mild, neutral-pH soaps. Avoid laundry  
detergents or dishwashing soaps with degreasers.  
Using too much soap will leave a residue that  
leaves streaks and attracts dirt. For liquid cleaners,  
about 20 drops per gallon (3.78 L) of water is a  
good guide.  
For solid dry soils: remove as much as possible  
and then vacuum.  
To clean, use the following instructions:  
1. Saturate a lint-free, clean white cloth with water or  
club soda.  
Do not heavily saturate your upholstery while  
cleaning.  
2. Wring the cloth to remove excess moisture.  
Damage to your vehicle’s interior may result from  
the use of many organic solvents such as naptha,  
alcohol, etc.  
3. Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub  
toward the center. Continue cleaning, using a clean  
area of the cloth each time it becomes soiled.  
4. Continue to gently rub the soiled area until the  
cleaning cloth remains clean.  
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild  
soap solution and repeat the cleaning process  
that was used with plain water.  
5-83  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
If any of the soil remains, a commercial fabric cleaner  
or spot lifter may be necessary. When a commercial  
upholstery cleaner or spot lifter is to be used, test  
a small hidden area for colorfastness first. If the locally  
cleaned area gives any impression that a ring  
formation may result, clean the entire surface.  
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other  
Plastic Surfaces  
A soft cloth dampened with water may be used to  
remove dust. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary,  
a clean soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution  
can be used to gently remove dust and dirt. Never  
use spot lifters or removers on plastic surfaces.  
Many commercial cleaners and coatings that are  
sold to preserve and protect soft plastic surfaces may  
permanently change the appearance and feel of  
your interior and are not recommended. Do not use  
silicone or wax-based products, or those containing  
organic solvents to clean your vehicle’s interior because  
they can alter the appearance by increasing the gloss  
in a non-uniform manner.  
After the cleaning process has been completed, a paper  
towel can be used to blot excess moisture from the  
fabric or carpet.  
Leather  
A soft cloth dampened with water may be used to  
remove dust. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary,  
a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can  
be used. Allow the leather to dry naturally. Do not use  
heat to dry. Never use steam to clean leather. Never  
use spot lifters or spot removers on leather. Many  
commercial leather cleaners and coatings that are sold  
to preserve and protect leather may permanently  
change the appearance and feel of your leather and are  
not recommended. Do not use silicone or wax-based  
products, or those containing organic solvents to clean  
your vehicle’s interior because they can alter the  
appearance by increasing the gloss in a non-uniform  
manner. Never use shoe polish on your leather.  
Some commercial products may increase gloss on your  
instrument panel. The increase in gloss may cause  
annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it  
difficult to see through the windshield under certain  
conditions.  
5-84  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Care of Safety Belts  
Washing Your Vehicle  
Keep belts clean and dry.  
The paint finish on the vehicle provides beauty, depth of  
color, gloss retention, and durability.  
The best way to preserve the vehicle’s finish is to keep it  
clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water.  
{CAUTION:  
Do not wash the vehicle in the direct rays of the sun.  
Use a car washing soap. Do not use strong soaps  
or chemical detergents. Be sure to rinse the vehicle well,  
removing all soap residue completely. GM-approved  
cleaning products can be obtained from your dealer. See  
not use cleaning agents that are petroleum based,  
or that contain acid or abrasives. All cleaning agents  
should be flushed promptly and not allowed to dry on the  
surface, or they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft,  
clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface  
scratches and water spotting.  
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. During very cold,  
damp weather frequent application may be required.  
High pressure car washes may cause water to enter  
the vehicle.  
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses  
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car  
washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow  
instructions under Washing Your Vehicle on page 5-85.  
5-85  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather  
and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a  
period of years. You can help to keep the paint finish  
looking new by keeping your vehicle garaged or covered  
whenever possible.  
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 5-89.  
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts  
Bright metal parts should be cleaned regularly to keep  
their luster. Washing with water is all that is usually  
needed. However, you may use chrome polish on  
chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary.  
If your vehicle has a “basecoat/clearcoat” paint finish,  
the clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored  
basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are  
non-abrasive and made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint  
finish.  
Use special care with aluminum trim. To avoid damaging  
protective trim, never use auto or chrome polish,  
steam or caustic soap to clean aluminum. A coating of  
wax, rubbed to high polish, is recommended for all  
bright metal parts.  
Notice: Machine compounding or aggressive  
polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may  
damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and  
polishes that are made for a basecoat/clearcoat  
paint finish on your vehicle.  
Windshield, Backglass, and Wiper  
Blades  
Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other  
salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird  
droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can  
damage your vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted  
surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If  
necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked  
safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.  
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.  
5-86  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Clean the outside of the windshield with a full-strength  
glass cleaning liquid. The windshield is clean if beads do  
not form when you rinse it with water.  
Notice: Using chrome polish on aluminum wheels  
could damage the wheels. The repairs would not  
be covered by your warranty. Use chrome polish on  
chrome wheels only.  
Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades  
and affect their performance. Clean the blade by  
wiping vigorously with a cloth soaked in full-strength  
windshield washer solvent. Then rinse the blade  
with water.  
The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted  
surface of the vehicle. Do not use strong soaps,  
chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners,  
cleaners with acid, or abrasive cleaning brushes on  
them because the surface could be damaged. Do not  
use chrome polish on aluminum wheels.  
Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary;  
replace blades that look worn.  
Notice: If you drive your vehicle through an  
automatic car wash that has silicone carbide tire  
cleaning brushes, you could damage the aluminum  
or chrome-plated wheels. The repairs would not  
be covered by your warranty. Never drive a vehicle  
equipped with aluminum or chrome-plated wheels  
through an automatic car wash that uses silicone  
carbide tire cleaning brushes.  
Aluminum Wheels  
Notice: If you use strong soaps, chemicals,  
abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes, or cleaners  
that contain acid on aluminum or chrome-plated  
wheels, you could damage the surface of the  
wheel(s). The repairs would not be covered by your  
warranty. Use only GM-approved cleaners on  
aluminum or chrome-plated wheels.  
Do not take the vehicle through an automatic car wash  
that has silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes. These  
brushes can also damage the surface of these wheels.  
Keep the wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild  
soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing  
thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then  
be applied.  
5-87  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Tires  
Underbody Maintenance  
To clean the tires, use a stiff brush with tire cleaner.  
Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust  
control can collect on the underbody. If these are not  
removed, corrosion and rust can develop on the  
underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan,  
and exhaust system even though they have corrosion  
protection.  
Notice: Using petroleum-based tire dressing  
products on your vehicle may damage the paint  
finish and/or tires. When applying a tire dressing,  
always wipe off any overspray from all painted  
surfaces on your vehicle.  
At least every spring, flush these materials from the  
underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mud  
and debris can collect. Dirt packed in close areas of  
the frame should be loosened before being flushed.  
Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can  
do this for you.  
Sheet Metal Damage  
If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal  
repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop  
applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or  
replaced to restore corrosion protection.  
Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide the  
corrosion protection while maintaining the warranty.  
Chemical Paint Spotting  
Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a  
chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and  
attack painted surfaces on the vehicle. This damage can  
take two forms: blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations,  
and small, irregular dark spots etched into the  
paint surface.  
Finish Damage  
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.  
Although no defect in the paint job causes this, GM will  
repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of  
new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within  
12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of purchase,  
whichever occurs first.  
Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-up  
materials available from your GM dealer. Larger areas  
of finish damage can be corrected in your GM  
dealer’s body and paint shop.  
5-88  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials  
Description  
Usage  
Removes swirl marks, fine  
scratches, and other light  
surface contamination.  
Description  
Usage  
Swirl Remover Polish  
Polishing Cloth  
Wax-Treated  
Interior and exterior  
polishing cloth.  
Removes light scratches  
and protects finish.  
Cleaner Wax  
Tar and Road Oil  
Remover  
Removes tar, road oil,  
and asphalt.  
Cleans, shines, and  
protects in one step.  
No wiping necessary.  
Foaming Tire Shine  
Low Gloss  
Chrome Cleaner and  
Polish  
Use on chrome or  
stainless steel.  
Medium foaming  
shampoo. Cleans and  
lightly waxes.  
White Sidewall Tire  
Cleaner  
Removes soil and black  
marks from whitewalls.  
Wash Wax Concentrate  
Biodegradable and  
phosphate free.  
Vinyl Cleaner  
Glass Cleaner  
Cleans vinyl.  
Removes dirt, grime,  
smoke and fingerprints.  
Quickly removes spots  
and stains from carpets,  
vinyl, and cloth  
Spot Lifter  
Removes dirt and grime  
from chrome wheels and  
wire wheel covers.  
Chrome and Wire Wheel  
Cleaner  
upholstery.  
Odorless spray odor  
eliminator used on fabrics,  
vinyl, leather and carpet.  
Odor Eliminator  
Removes dust,  
fingerprints, and surface  
contaminants. Spray on  
and wipe off.  
Finish Enhancer  
5-89  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Engine Identification  
The eighth character in your VIN is the engine code.  
This code will help you identify your engine,  
specifications and replacement parts.  
Vehicle Identification  
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)  
Service Parts Identification Label  
You will find this label on the inside of the glove box.  
It is very helpful if you ever need to order parts.  
On this label, you will find the following:  
VIN  
Model designation  
Paint information  
Production options and special equipment  
Be sure that this label is not removed from the vehicle.  
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. The VIN also  
appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts  
labels and the certificates of title and registration.  
5-90  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Power Windows and Other Power  
Options  
Electrical System  
Add-On Electrical Equipment  
Circuit breakers protect the power windows and other  
power accessories. When the current load is too heavy,  
the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting the  
circuit until the problem is fixed or goes away.  
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.  
Fuses and Circuit Breakers  
The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from  
short circuits by a combination of fuses and circuit  
breakers. This greatly reduces the chance of fires  
caused by electrical problems.  
Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to  
add anything electrical to your vehicle, see Servicing  
Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the  
band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you  
replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical  
size and rating.  
Headlamps  
The headlamp wiring is protected by four fuses. An  
electrical overload will cause a lamp to go on and off.  
If this happens, have your headlamp wiring checked  
right away.  
If you ever have a problem on the road and don’t have  
a spare fuse, you can borrow one that has the same  
amperage. Just pick some feature of your vehicle  
that you can get along without — like the radio or  
cigarette lighter — and use its fuse, if it is the correct  
amperage. Replace it as soon as you can.  
Windshield Wiper Fuses  
The windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuit  
breaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavy  
snow or ice, the wiper will stop until the motor cools.  
If the overload is caused by some electrical problem, be  
sure to get it fixed.  
5-91  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The fuse block is located under the hood in the engine  
compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle. See  
Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more  
information on location.  
Engine Compartment Fuse Block  
Remove the primary cover by pressing the two locking  
tabs. Remove the secondary cover by snapping off  
while lifting. To reinstall the fuse panel cover, reverse  
the sequence.  
5-92  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
L6 Engine  
Fuses  
Usage  
Fuses  
Usage  
Electrically-Controlled Air  
Suspension  
Passenger’s Side High-Beam  
Headlamp  
Passenger’s Side Low-Beam  
Headlamp  
Back-Up Trailer Lamps  
1
3
4
2
5-93  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Fuses  
Usage  
Driver’s Side High-Beam  
Headlamp  
Driver’s Side Low-Beam  
Headlamp  
Rear Window Washer, Headlamp  
Washer  
Active Transfer Case  
Windshield Washer  
Powertrain Control Module B  
Fog Lamps  
Fuses  
22  
23  
Usage  
Ignition E  
5
Electronic Throttle Control  
Instrument Panel Cluster, Driver  
Information Center  
Automatic Shift Lock Control  
System  
6
7
24  
25  
8
9
26  
27  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
36  
50  
51  
52  
Engine 1  
Backup  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
Powertrain Control Module 1  
Oxygen Sensor  
Air Conditioning  
Truck Body Controller  
Trailer  
Stoplamp  
Cigarette Lighter  
Ignition Coils  
Electric Adjustable Pedals  
Truck Body Controller, Ignition 1  
Crank  
Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)  
Ignition A  
Blower Motor  
Ignition B  
Airbag  
Trailer Electric Brake  
Cooling Fan  
Passenger’s Side Trailer Turn  
Driver’s Side Trailer Turn  
Hazard Flashers  
Horn  
5-94  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Fuses  
53  
Usage  
Headlamp Driver Module  
Air Injection Reactor (AIR)  
Solenoid  
Air Injection Reactor (AIR) Pump  
Relay  
43  
44  
45  
46  
Usage  
High-Beam Headlamp  
Air Conditioning  
Cooling Fan  
Headlamp Driver Module  
Starter  
54  
56  
47  
49  
Electric Adjustable Pedal  
Air Injection Reactor (AIR)  
Solenoid  
Relay  
37  
38  
Usage  
Headlamp Washer  
Rear Window Washer  
Fog Lamps  
55  
39  
40  
Horn  
Miscellaneous  
Usage  
41  
Fuel Pump  
48  
Instrument Panel Battery  
42  
Windshield Washer  
5-95  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
V8 Engine  
Fuses  
Usage  
Fuses  
Usage  
Electrically-Controlled Air  
Suspension  
Passenger’s Side High-Beam  
Headlamp  
Passenger’s Side Low-Beam  
Headlamp  
Back-Up Trailer Lamps  
1
3
4
2
5-96  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Fuses  
Usage  
Fuses  
Usage  
Driver’s Side High-Beam  
Headlamp  
Instrument Panel Cluster, Driver  
Information Center  
5
24  
Driver’s Side Low-Beam  
Headlamp  
Rear Window Washer, Headlamp  
Washer  
Active Transfer Case  
Windshield Washer  
Powertrain Control Module B  
Fog Lamps  
Stoplamp  
Cigarette Lighter  
Ignition Coils  
Canister Vent  
Truck Body Controller, Ignition 1  
Crank  
Automatic Shift Lock Control  
System  
Engine 1  
6
7
25  
26  
27  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
36  
50  
51  
52  
53  
54  
55  
56  
Backup  
8
9
Powertrain Control Module 1  
Powertrain Control Module  
Air Conditioning  
Injector Bank A  
Trailer  
Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)  
Ignition A  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
Blower Motor  
Ignition B  
Passenger’s Side Trailer Turn  
Driver’s Side Trailer Turn  
Hazard Flashers  
Transmission  
Oxygen Sensor Bank B  
Oxygen Sensor Bank A  
Injector Bank B  
Airbag  
Trailer Electric Brake  
Cooling Fan  
Horn  
Ignition E  
Electronic Throttle Control  
5-97  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Rear Underseat Fuse Block  
Fuses  
57  
58  
Usage  
Headlamp Driver Module  
Truck Body Controller 1  
Electric Adjustable Pedal  
59  
Relay  
37  
38  
39  
40  
41  
42  
43  
44  
45  
46  
47  
49  
60  
Usage  
Headlamp Washer  
Rear Window Washer  
Fog Lamps  
Horn  
Fuel Pump  
Windshield Washer  
High-Beam Headlamp  
Air Conditioning  
Cooling Fan  
Headlamp Driver Module  
Starter  
Envoy  
Electric Adjustable Pedal  
Powertrain  
Miscellaneous  
Usage  
48  
Instrument Panel Battery  
5-98  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Fuses  
01  
02  
03  
04  
05  
06  
07  
08  
09  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
Usage  
Right Door Control Module  
Left Door Control Module  
Liftgate Module 2  
Truck Body Controller 3  
Rear Fog Lamps  
Blank  
Truck Body Controller 2  
Power Seats  
Rear Wiper  
Driver Door Module  
Amplifier  
Passenger Door Module  
Rear Climate Controls  
Left Rear Parking Lamps  
Blank  
Vehicle Center High-Mounted  
Stop Lamp  
16  
17  
18  
Right Rear Parking Lamps  
Locks  
Liftgate Module/Driver Seat  
Module  
19  
20  
21  
23  
Blank  
Lock  
Blank  
Envoy  
5-99  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Fuses  
24  
25  
Usage  
Fuses  
45  
46  
47  
48  
49  
50  
51  
52  
Usage  
Rear Fog Lamps  
Auxiliary Power 1  
Ignition 0  
Four-Wheel Drive  
Blank  
Truck Body Controller Ignition  
Brakes  
Unlock  
Blank  
Blank  
26  
OnStar® Overhead  
27  
Battery/OnStar® System  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
Sunroof  
Rainsense™ Wipers  
Parking Lamps  
Truck Body Controller Accessory  
Truck Body Controller 5  
Front Wipers  
Truck Body Controller Run  
Vehicle Stop  
Transmission Control Module  
Heat Ventilation Air  
Conditioning B  
36  
37  
38  
Front Parking Lamps  
Left Turn Signal  
Heat Ventilation Air  
Conditioning 1  
39  
40  
41  
42  
43  
44  
Truck Body Controller 4  
Radio  
Trailer Park  
Right Turn Signal  
Heat Ventilation Air Conditioning  
Envoy XL  
5-100  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Fuses  
01  
02  
03  
04  
05  
06  
07  
08  
09  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
Usage  
Right Door Control Module  
Left Door Control Module  
Liftgate Module 2  
Truck Body Controller 3  
Rear Fog Lamps  
Blank  
Truck Body Controller 2  
Power Seats  
Rear Wiper  
Driver Door Module  
Amplifier  
Passenger Door Module  
Rear Climate Controls  
Left Rear Parking Lamps  
Blank  
Vehicle Center High-Mounted  
Stop Lamp  
16  
17  
18  
Right Rear Parking Lamps  
Locks  
Liftgate Module/Driver Seat  
Module  
19  
20  
21  
Vent Window  
Lock  
Envoy XL  
5-101  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Fuses  
22  
23  
24  
25  
Usage  
Fuses  
40  
41  
42  
43  
44  
45  
46  
47  
48  
49  
50  
51  
Usage  
Truck Body Controller 4  
Radio  
Retained Accessory Power  
Blank  
Unlock  
Blank  
Blank  
Trailer Park  
Right Turn Signal  
Heat Ventilation Air Conditioning  
Rear Fog Lamps  
Auxiliary Power 1  
Ignition 0  
Four-Wheel Drive  
Blank  
Truck Body Controller Ignition  
Brakes  
Truck Body Controller Run  
Blank  
Blank  
Blank  
Blank  
26  
OnStar® Overhead  
27  
Battery/OnStar® System  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
Sunroof  
Rainsense™ Wipers  
Parking Lamps  
Truck Body Controller Accessory  
Truck Body Controller 5  
Front Wipers  
52  
Vehicle Stop  
BLANK  
BLANK  
BLANK  
BLANK  
BLANK  
BLANK  
Transmission Control Module  
Heat Ventilation Air  
Conditioning B  
Front Parking Lamps  
Left Turn Signal  
Heat Ventilation Air  
Conditioning 1  
36  
37  
38  
Blank  
Blank  
39  
5-102  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Capacities and Specifications  
The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. See Recommended Fluids and  
Lubricants on page 6-12 for more information.  
Capacities  
Application  
English  
Metric  
Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a  
Standard Wheel Base  
Extended Wheel Base  
Cooling System  
1.9 lbs  
2.8 lbs  
0.85 kg  
1.27 kg  
4200 L6 Standard Wheel Base  
4200 L6 Extended Wheel Base  
5300 V8 Standard Wheel Base  
5300 V8 Extended Wheel Base  
Differential Fluid — Front  
Differential Fluid – Rear  
4200 L6  
10.8 qt  
13.8 qt  
12.2 qt  
15.3 qt  
1.7 pt  
10.2 L  
13.1 L  
11.6 L  
14.5 L  
0.8 L  
3.6 pt  
4.3 pt  
1.7 L  
2.0 L  
5300 V8  
5-103  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Capacities  
Application  
English  
Metric  
Engine Oil with Filter  
4200 L6  
7.0 qt  
6.0 qt  
6.6 L  
5.7 L  
5300 V8  
Fuel Tank  
Standard Wheel Base  
Extended Wheel Base  
21.7 gal  
25.0 gal  
5.0 qt  
82.2 L  
95.8 L  
4.7 L  
Transmission (Drain and Refill)  
Wheel Nut Torque  
100 ft lb  
140 Y  
All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the appropriate level, as recommended in this  
manual. Recheck the fluid level after filling.  
Engine Specifications  
Engine  
VIN Code  
Transmission  
Spark Plug Gap  
VORTEC™ 4200 L6  
VORTEC™ 5300 V8  
S
Automatic  
0.042 inches (1.07 mm)  
0.040 inches (1.01 mm)  
M
Automatic  
5-104  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Maintenance Requirements  
Maintenance Schedule  
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.  
Introduction  
Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level and  
change as recommended.  
Your Vehicle and the Environment  
Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your  
vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the  
environment. All recommended maintenance is  
important. Improper vehicle maintenance can even  
affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid  
levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level  
of emissions from your vehicle. To help protect our  
environment, and to keep your vehicle in good condition,  
be sure to maintain your vehicle properly.  
Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan  
supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your  
Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet or your dealer  
for details.  
6-2  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The services in Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4  
should be performed when indicated. See Additional  
Footnotes on page 6-7 for further information.  
Using the 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.  
{CAUTION:  
Performing maintenance work on a vehicle  
can be dangerous. In trying to do some jobs,  
you can be seriously injured. Do your own  
maintenance work only if you have the  
required know-how and the proper tools and  
equipment for the job. If you have any doubt,  
see your GM Goodwrench® dealer to have a  
qualified technician do the work.  
Because of all the different ways people use their  
vehicles, maintenance needs vary. You may need more  
frequent checks and replacements. So please read  
the following and note how you drive. If you have any  
questions on how to keep your vehicle in good condition,  
see your GM Goodwrench® dealer.  
This schedule is for vehicles that:  
carry passengers and cargo within recommended  
limits. You will find these limits on the tire and  
loading information label. See Loading Your Vehicle  
on page 4-43.  
are driven on reasonable road surfaces within legal  
driving limits.  
are driven off-road in the recommended manner.  
Vehicle on page 4-15.  
use the recommended fuel. See Gasoline Octane  
on page 5-5.  
Some maintenance services can be complex. So,  
unless you are technically qualified and have the  
necessary equipment, you should have your  
GM Goodwrench® dealer do these jobs.  
When you go to your GM Goodwrench® dealer for your  
service needs, you will know that GM-trained and  
supported service technicians will perform the work  
using genuine GM parts.  
If you want to purchase service information, see Service  
6-3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Owner Checks and Services on page 6-8 tells you what  
should be checked, when to check it and what you  
can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good  
condition.  
If the engine oil life system is ever reset accidentally,  
you must service your vehicle within 3,000 miles  
(5 000 km) since your last service. Remember to reset  
the oil life system whenever the oil is changed. See  
Engine Oil Life System on page 5-18 for information on  
the Engine Oil Life System and resetting the system.  
The proper replacement parts, fluids and lubricants to  
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. We recommend the use of  
genuine GM parts.  
When the change engine oil light appears, certain  
services, checks, and inspections are required.  
Required services are described in the following for  
“Maintenance I” and “Maintenance II.” Generally,  
it is recommended that your first service be  
Maintenance I, your second service be Maintenance II,  
and that you alternate Maintenance I and Maintenance II  
thereafter. However, in some cases, Maintenance II  
may be required more often.  
Scheduled Maintenance  
When the change engine oil light comes on, it means  
that service is required for your vehicle. Have your  
vehicle serviced as soon as possible within the next  
600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are  
driving under the best conditions, the engine oil life  
system may not indicate that vehicle service is  
necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil  
and filter must be changed at least once a year and  
at this time the system must be reset. Your GM  
Goodwrench® dealer has GM-trained service technicians  
who will perform this work using genuine GM parts  
and reset the system.  
Maintenance I — Use Maintenance I if the change  
engine oil light comes on within 10 months since  
the vehicle was purchased or Maintenance II was  
performed.  
Maintenance II — Use Maintenance II if the previous  
service performed was Maintenance I. Always use  
Maintenance II whenever the light comes on 10 months  
or more since the last service or if the light has not  
come on at all for one year.  
6-4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Scheduled Maintenance  
Service  
Maintenance I Maintenance II  
Change engine oil and filter. See Engine Oil on page 5-15. Reset oil  
life system. See Engine Oil Life System on page 5-18. An Emission  
Control Service.  
Visually check for any leaks or damage. See footnote (j).  
Inspect engine air cleaner filter. If necessary, replace filter. See Engine  
Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-19. See footnote (k).  
Rotate tires and check inflation pressures and wear. See Tire Inspection and  
Rotation on page 5-57 and “Tire Wear Inspection” in At Least Once a Month  
on page 6-9.  
Inspect brake system. See footnote (a).  
Check engine coolant and windshield washer fluid levels and add fluid as  
needed.  
Perform any needed additional services. See “Additional Required Services”  
in this section.  
Inspect suspension and steering components. See footnote (b).  
Inspect engine cooling system. See footnote (c).  
Inspect wiper blades. See footnote (d).  
Inspect restraint system components. See footnote (e).  
Lubricate body components. See footnote (f).  
Check transmission fluid level and add fluid as needed.  
6-5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
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  
75,000  
100,000  
125,000 150,000  
Service and Miles (Kilometers)  
(83 000) (125 000) (166 000) (207 500) (240 000)  
Inspect fuel system for damage or leaks.  
Inspect exhaust system for loose or damaged  
components.  
Replace engine air cleaner filter. See Engine  
Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-19.  
Change automatic transmission fluid and filter  
(severe service). See footnote (h).  
Change automatic transmission fluid and filter  
(normal service).  
Automatic transfer case only: Change transfer  
case fluid. See footnote (g).  
Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control  
Service.  
V8 engine only: Inspect spark plug wires.  
An Emission Control Service.  
Engine cooling system service (or every  
five years, whichever occurs first). An  
Emission Control Service. See footnote (i).  
Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An  
Emission Control Service. See footnote (l).  
6-6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job,  
have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts  
replaced. Also look for any opened or broken airbag  
coverings, and have them repaired or replaced.  
The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.  
Maintenance Footnotes  
(a) Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper  
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect  
disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface  
condition. Inspect other brake parts, including calipers,  
parking brake, etc.  
(f) Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood latch  
assembly, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor,  
release pawl, rear compartment hinges, outer liftgate  
handle pivot points, rear door detent link, roller  
mechanism, liftgate handle pivot points, latch bolt, fuel  
door hinge, cargo door hinge, locks, and folding  
seat hardware. More frequent lubrication may be  
required when exposed to a corrosive environment.  
Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean  
cloth will make them last longer, seal better and not stick  
or squeak.  
(b) Visually inspect front and rear suspension and  
steering system for damaged, loose, or missing parts or  
signs of wear. Inspect power steering lines and hoses  
for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.  
(c) Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if  
they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect  
all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace with genuine  
GM parts as needed. To help ensure proper operation,  
a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure  
cap and cleaning the outside of the radiator and  
air conditioning condenser is recommended at least  
once a year.  
(g) Check vent hose at transfer case for kinks and  
proper installation.  
(h) Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the  
vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these  
conditions:  
(d) Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking.  
Replace wiper blades that appear worn or damaged  
or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.  
In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature  
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.  
(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  
In hilly or mountainous terrain.  
When doing frequent trailer towing.  
Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery  
service.  
6-7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
(i) Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service  
can be complex; you should have your dealer perform  
this service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-23 for  
what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser,  
pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the  
cooling system and pressure cap.  
At Each Fuel Fill  
It is important to perform these underhood checks at  
each fuel fill.  
Engine Oil Level Check  
Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil  
if necessary. See Engine Oil on page 5-15 for  
further details.  
(j) A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a  
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and  
the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed.  
(k) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, inspect  
the filter at each engine oil change.  
Notice: It is important to check your oil regularly  
and keep it at the proper level. Failure to keep your  
engine oil at the proper level can cause damage  
to your engine not covered by your warranty.  
(l) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or  
obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.  
Engine Coolant Level Check  
Owner Checks and Services  
Check the engine coolant level and add  
DEX-COOL® coolant mixture if necessary.  
See Engine Coolant on page 5-23 for further details.  
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.  
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check  
Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield  
washer tank and add the proper fluid if necessary.  
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  
6-8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
At Least Once a Month  
At Least Once a Year  
Tire Inflation Check  
Starter Switch Check  
Visually inspect your vehicle’s tires and make sure they  
are inflated to the correct pressures. Do not forget to  
check the spare tire. See Tires on page 5-50 for further  
details. Check to make sure the spare tire is stored  
securely. See Changing a Flat Tire on page 5-66.  
{CAUTION:  
When you are doing this inspection, the  
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle  
moves, you or others could be injured.  
Tire Wear Inspection  
Tire rotation may be required for high mileage highway  
drivers prior to the Engine Oil Life System service  
notification. Check the tires for wear and, if necessary,  
rotate the tires. See Tire Inspection and Rotation on  
page 5-57.  
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 2-31.  
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. The vehicle  
should start only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).  
If the vehicle starts in any other position, contact  
your GM Goodwrench® dealer for service.  
6-9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
3. With the engine off, turn the ignition to RUN, but do  
not start the engine. Without applying the regular  
brake, try to move the shift lever out of PARK (P)  
with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out  
of PARK (P), contact your GM Goodwrench®  
dealer for service.  
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock  
Control System Check  
{CAUTION:  
Ignition Transmission Lock Check  
When you are doing this inspection, the  
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle  
moves, you or others could be injured.  
While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn  
the ignition to LOCK in each shift lever position.  
The ignition should turn to LOCK only when the  
shift lever is in PARK (P).  
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough  
room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a  
level surface.  
The key should come out only in LOCK.  
Contact your GM Goodwrench® dealer if service  
is required.  
2. Firmly apply the parking brake. See Parking Brake  
on page 2-31.  
Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if  
the vehicle begins to move.  
6-10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Parking Brake and Automatic  
Transmission Park (P) Mechanism Check  
To check the PARK (P) mechanism’s holding ability:  
With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Then  
release the parking brake followed by the regular  
brake.  
Contact your GM Goodwrench® dealer if service is  
required.  
{CAUTION:  
When you are doing this check, your vehicle  
could begin to move. You or others could be  
injured and property could be damaged. Make  
sure there is room in front of your vehicle in  
case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the  
regular brake at once should the vehicle begin  
to move.  
Underbody Flushing Service  
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any  
corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to  
clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debris  
can collect.  
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing  
downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the  
parking brake.  
To check the parking brake’s holding ability:  
With the engine running and transmission in  
NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot pressure from  
the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle  
is held by the parking brake only.  
6-11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Recommended Fluids and  
Lubricants  
Usage  
Fluid/Lubricant  
Chassis Lubricant  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12377985, in  
Canada 88901242) or lubricant  
meeting requirements of NLGI #2,  
Category LB or GC-LB.  
Parking Brake  
Cable Guides  
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part  
number or specification may be obtained from your  
dealer.  
GM Power Steering Fluid  
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021184, in  
Canada 89021186).  
DEXRON®-III Automatic  
Transmission Fluid. Look for  
Power Steering  
System  
Usage  
Fluid/Lubricant  
Engine oil which meets  
GM Standard GM6094M and  
displays the American Petroleum  
Institute Certified for Gasoline  
Engines starburst symbol.  
Automatic  
Transmission “Approved for the H-Specification”  
on the label.  
Engine Oil  
GM Goodwrench® oil meets all  
the requirements for your vehicle.  
To determine the proper viscosity  
for your vehicle’s engine, see  
Engine Oil on page 5-15.  
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube  
Key Lock  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in  
Cylinders  
Canada 10953474).  
Chassis Lubricant  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12377985, in  
50/50 mixture of clean,  
Chassis  
Canada 88901242) or lubricant  
Lubrication  
drinkable water and use only  
DEX-COOL® Coolant. See Engine  
Coolant on page 5-23.  
Engine Coolant  
meeting requirements of NLGI #2,  
Category LB or GC-LB.  
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic  
Hydraulic Brake Delco Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or  
Axle Lubricant (GM Part  
Front and  
System  
equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.  
No. U.S. 12378261, in  
Rear Axle  
Windshield  
GM Optikleen® Washer Solvent.  
Canada 10953455) meeting  
Washer Solvent  
GM Specification 9986115.  
6-12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Usage  
Fluid/Lubricant  
AUTO-TRAK II Fluid  
Usage  
Fluid/Lubricant  
Hood and Door  
Hinges, Body  
Door Hinge  
Pins, Liftgate Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube  
Hinge and  
Linkage,  
Folding Seats  
and Fuel Door  
Hinge  
Transfer Case (GM Part No. U.S. 12378508, in  
Canada 10953626).  
Chassis Lubricant  
Rear Driveline  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in  
Canada 10953474).  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12377985, in  
Center Spline  
Canada 88901242) or lubricant  
and Universal  
meeting requirements of NLGI #2,  
Joints  
Category LB or GC-LB.  
Chassis Lubricant  
Outer Tailgate  
Handle Pivot  
Points and  
Hinges  
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in  
Canada 10953474).  
Constant  
Velocity  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12377985, in  
Canada 88901242) or lubricant  
Universal Joint meeting requirements of NLGI #2,  
Category LB or GC-LB.  
Dielectric Silicone Grease  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12345579, in  
Canada 992887).  
Weatherstrip  
Conditioning  
Hood Latch  
Assembly,  
Secondary  
Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol  
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346293, in  
Latch, Pivots, Canada 992723) or lubricant  
Spring Anchor meeting requirements of NLGI #2,  
and Release Category LB or GC-LB.  
Pawl  
Synthetic Grease with Teflon,  
Superlube (GM Part No. U.S.  
12371287, in Canada 10953437).  
Weatherstrip  
Squeaks  
6-13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts  
Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.  
Part  
Automatic Transmission Filter Kit  
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter  
Engine Oil Filter  
4200 L6  
GM Part Number  
24200796  
ACDelco® Part Number  
15036141  
A2014C  
89017342  
88984215  
88983068  
PF61  
PF46  
5300 V8  
Fuel Filter  
GF831  
Spark Plugs  
4200 L6  
12569190  
12571164  
41-981  
41-985  
5300 V8  
Wiper Blades  
Front — 22 inches (56 cm)  
Rear — 16 inches (41 cm)  
8-2221  
8-2161  
6-14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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.  
Any additional information from Owner Checks and Services on page 6-8 can be added on the following record  
pages. You should retain all maintenance receipts.  
Maintenance Record  
Odometer  
Reading  
Maintenance I or  
Maintenance II  
Date  
Serviced By  
Services Performed  
6-15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Maintenance Record (cont’d)  
Odometer  
Reading  
Maintenance I or  
Maintenance II  
Date  
Serviced By  
Services Performed  
6-16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Maintenance Record (cont’d)  
Odometer  
Reading  
Maintenance I or  
Maintenance II  
Date  
Serviced By  
Services Performed  
6-17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Maintenance Record (cont’d)  
Odometer  
Reading  
Maintenance I or  
Maintenance II  
Date  
Serviced By  
Services Performed  
6-18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
We encourage you to call the toll-free number in order  
to give your inquiry prompt attention. Please have  
the following information available to give the Customer  
Assistance Representative:  
Customer Assistance and  
Information  
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is  
available from the vehicle registration or title, or the  
plate at the top left of the instrument panel and  
visible through the windshield.  
Customer Satisfaction Procedure  
Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to  
your dealer and to GMC. Normally, any concerns with  
the sales transaction or the operation of the vehicle  
will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service  
departments. Sometimes, however, despite the best  
intentions of all concerned, misunderstandings can  
occur. If your concern has not been resolved to your  
satisfaction, the following steps should be taken:  
Dealership name and location.  
Vehicle delivery date and present mileage.  
When contacting GMC, please remember that your  
concern will likely be resolved at a dealer’s facility. That  
is why we suggest you follow Step One first if you  
have a concern.  
STEP ONE: Discuss your concern with a member of  
dealership management. Normally, concerns can  
be quickly resolved at that level. If the matter has  
already been reviewed with the sales, service or parts  
manager, contact the owner of the dealership or  
the general manager.  
STEP THREE: Both General Motors and your dealer  
are committed to making sure you are completely  
satisfied with your new vehicle. However, if you continue  
to remain unsatisfied after following the procedure  
outlined in Steps One and Two, you should file with the  
BBB Auto Line Program to enforce any additional  
rights you may have. Canadian owners refer to your  
Warranty and Owner Assistance Information booklet for  
information on the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration  
Plan (CAMVAP).  
STEP TWO: If after contacting a member of dealership  
management, it appears your concern cannot be  
resolved by the dealership without further help, contact  
the GMC Consumer Relations Manager by calling  
1-800-GMC-8782 (1-800-462-8782, Customer  
Assistance prompt). In Canada, contact GM of Canada  
Customer Communication by calling 1-800-263-3777  
(English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).  
7-2  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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. If you do not agree with the decision given in  
your case, you may reject it and proceed with any other  
venue for relief available to you.  
Online Owner Center  
The Owner Center is a resource for your GM ownership  
needs. Specific vehicle information can be found in  
one place.  
The Online Owner Center allows you to:  
Get e-mail service reminders.  
Access information about your specific vehicle,  
including tips and videos and an electronic  
version of this owner’s manual (United States only).  
You may contact the BBB Auto Line Program using the  
toll-free telephone number or write them at the  
following address:  
Keep track of your vehicle’s service history and  
maintenance schedule.  
Find GM dealers for service nationwide.  
BBB Auto Line Program  
Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.  
4200 Wilson Boulevard  
Suite 800  
Receive special promotions and privileges only  
available to members (United States only).  
Refer to the web for updated information.  
Arlington, VA 22203-1838  
To register your vehicle, visit www.MyGMLink.com  
(United States) or My GM Canada within  
www.gmcanada.com (Canada).  
Telephone: 1-800-955-5100  
This program is available in all 50 states and the  
District of Columbia. Eligibility is limited by vehicle age,  
mileage, and other factors. General Motors reserves  
the right to change eligibility limitations and/or  
discontinue its participation in this program.  
7-3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
From Puerto Rico  
Customer Assistance for Text  
Telephone (TTY) Users  
1-800-496-9992 (English)  
1-800-496-9993 (Spanish)  
Fax Number: 313-381-0022  
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.)  
U.S. Virgin Islands:  
1-800-496-9994  
Fax Number: 313-381-0022  
Canada  
General Motors of Canada Limited  
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005  
1908 Colonel Sam Drive  
Customer Assistance Offices  
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7  
1-800-263-3777 (English)  
GMC encourages customers to call the toll-free number  
for assistance. If a U.S. customer wishes to write to  
GMC, the letter should be addressed to GMC’s  
Customer Assistance Center.  
1-800-263-7854 (French)  
1-800-263-3830 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs))  
Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800  
All Overseas Locations  
United States  
Please contact the local General Motors Business Unit.  
GMC Customer Assistance Center  
P.O. Box 33172  
Detroit, MI 48232-5172  
1-800-GMC-8782 (462-8782)  
1-800-GMC-8583 (462-8583) (For Text Telephone  
devices (TTYs))  
Roadside Assistance: 1-800-GMC-8782 (462-8782)  
Fax Number: 313-381-0022  
7-4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
The offer is available for a very limited period of time  
from the date of vehicle purchase/lease. For more  
details, or to determine your vehicle’s eligibility, visit  
gmmobility.com or call the GM Mobility Assistance  
Center at 1-800-323-9935. Text telephone (TTY) users,  
call 1-800-833-9935.  
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.  
01-800-508-0000  
Long Distance: 011-52-53 29 0 800  
GM of Canada also has a Mobility Program. Call  
1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483) for details. TTY users  
call 1-800-263-3830.  
Roadside Assistance Program  
As the owner of a new GMC vehicle, you are  
GM Mobility Reimbursement  
Program  
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. Call 1-800-GMC-8782  
(1-800-462-8782) to speak with a GMC Road Assistance  
representative 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  
This program, available to qualified applicants,  
can reimburse you up to $1,000 of the cost of  
eligible aftermarket adaptive equipment required for  
your vehicle, such as hand controls or a  
wheelchair/scooter lift.  
7-5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
We will provide the following services during the  
Bumper-to-Bumper warranty period, at no expense  
to you:  
Fuel Delivery: Delivery of enough fuel  
($5 maximum) for the customer to get to the  
nearest service station.  
Lock-out Service (identification required):  
Replacement keys or locksmith service will  
be covered at no charge if you are unable to gain  
entry into your vehicle. Delivery of the replacement  
key will be covered within 10 miles (16 km).  
Emergency Tow: Tow to the nearest dealership for  
warranty service or in the event of a  
vehicle-disabling accident. Assistance provided  
when the vehicle is mired in sand, mud, or snow.  
Flat Tire Change: Installation of a spare tire will be  
covered at no charge. The customer is responsible  
for the repair or replacement of the tire if not  
covered by a warrantable failure.  
In many instances, mechanical failures are covered  
under GMC’s Bumper-to-Bumper warranty. However,  
when other services are utilized, our Roadside  
Assistance Representatives will explain any payment  
obligations you might incur.  
For prompt and efficient assistance when calling, please  
provide the following to the Roadside Assistance  
Representative:  
Your name, home address, and home  
telephone number.  
Telephone number of your location.  
Location of the vehicle.  
Model, year, color, and license plate number of  
the vehicle.  
Mileage, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and  
delivery date of the vehicle.  
Description of the problem.  
Jump Start: No-start occurrences which require a  
While we hope you never have the occasion to use our  
service, it is added security while traveling for you  
and your family. Remember, we are only a phone call  
away. GMC Roadside Assistance: 1-800-462-8782, text  
telephone (TTY) users, call 1-888-889-2438.  
battery jump start will be covered at no charge.  
Dealer Locator Service  
Trip Routing: Your Roadside Assistance  
Representative can provide you with specific  
information regarding this feature.  
Trip Interruption Expense Benefits: Your  
Roadside Assistance Representative can provide  
you with specific information regarding this feature.  
GMC reserves the right to limit services or  
reimbursement to an owner or driver when, in GMC’s  
judgement, the claims become excessive in frequency or  
type of occurrence.  
7-6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Roadside Assistance is not part of or included in the  
coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.  
GMC reserves the right to make any changes or  
discontinue the Roadside Assistance program at any  
time without notification.  
Scheduling Service Appointments  
When your vehicle requires warranty service, you should  
contact your dealer and request an appointment. By  
scheduling a service appointment and advising  
your service consultant of your transportation needs,  
your dealer can help minimize your inconvenience.  
Canadian Roadside Assistance  
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.  
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 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.  
Courtesy Transportation  
To enhance your ownership experience, we and our  
participating dealers are proud to offer Courtesy  
Transportation, a customer support program for new  
vehicles.  
The Courtesy Transportation program is offered to retail  
purchase/lease customers in conjunction with the  
Bumper-to-Bumper coverage provided by the New  
Vehicle Limited Warranty. Several transportation  
options are available when warranty repairs are  
required. This will reduce your inconvenience during  
warranty repairs.  
7-7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Courtesy Rental Vehicle  
Transportation Options  
Your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy  
rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle  
that you obtain if your vehicle is kept for a warranty  
repair. Reimbursement will be limited to a maximum  
amount per day and must be supported by receipts. This  
requires that you sign and complete a rental agreement  
and meet state, local and rental vehicle provider  
requirements. Requirements vary and may include  
minimum age requirements, insurance coverage, credit  
card, etc. You are responsible for fuel usage charges  
and may also be responsible for taxes, levies,  
usage fees, excessive mileage or rental usage beyond  
the completion of the repair.  
Warranty service can generally be completed while you  
wait. However, if you are unable to wait, GM helps  
to minimize your inconvenience by providing several  
transportation options. Depending on the circumstances,  
your dealer can offer you one of the following:  
Shuttle Service  
Participating dealers can provide you with shuttle  
service to get you to your destination with minimal  
interruption of your daily schedule. This includes  
one-way or round trip shuttle service to a destination  
up to 10 miles (16 km) from the dealership.  
Public Transportation or Fuel  
Reimbursement  
Generally it is not possible to provide a like-vehicle as a  
courtesy rental.  
If your vehicle requires overnight warranty repairs,  
reimbursement of public transportation expenses may  
be available, for up to a maximum of five days. In  
addition, should you arrange transportation through a  
friend or relative, reimbursement for reasonable  
fuel expenses may be available, up to a five-day  
maximum. Claim amounts should reflect actual costs  
and be supported by original receipts.  
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.  
7-8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Courtesy Transportation is available only at participating  
dealers and all program options, such as shuttle  
service, may not be available at every dealer. Please  
contact your dealer for specific information about  
availability. All Courtesy Transportation arrangements  
will be administered by appropriate dealer personnel.  
Vehicle Data Collection and Event  
Data Recorders  
Your vehicle, like other modern motor vehicles, has a  
number of sophisticated computer systems that monitor  
and control several aspects of the vehicle’s performance.  
Your vehicle uses on-board vehicle computers to monitor  
emission control components to optimize fuel economy,  
to monitor conditions for airbag deployment and, if so  
equipped, to provide anti-lock braking and to help the  
driver control the vehicle in difficult driving situations.  
Some information may be stored during regular  
operations to facilitate repair of detected malfunctions;  
other information is stored only in a crash event by  
computer systems, such as those commonly called event  
data recorders (EDR).  
Canadian Vehicles: For warranty repairs during  
the Complete Vehicle Coverage period of the General  
Motors of Canada New Vehicle Limited Warranty,  
alternative transportation may be available under the  
Courtesy Transportation Program. Please consult  
your dealer for details.  
General Motors reserves the right to unilaterally modify,  
change or discontinue Courtesy Transportation at  
any time and to resolve all questions of claim eligibility  
pursuant to the terms and conditions described  
herein at its sole discretion.  
In a crash event, computer systems, such as the Airbag  
Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) in your vehicle  
may record information about the condition of the vehicle  
and how it was operated, such as data related to  
engine speed, brake application, throttle position, vehicle  
speed, safety belt usage, airbag readiness, airbag  
performance, and the severity of a collision. This  
information has been used to improve vehicle crash  
performance and may be used to improve crash  
performance of future vehicles and driving safety. Unlike  
the data recorders on many airplanes, these on-board  
systems do not record sounds, such as conversation of  
vehicle occupants.  
7-9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
To read this information, special equipment is needed  
and access to the vehicle or the device that stores  
the data is required. GM will not access information  
about a crash event or share it with others other than:  
with the consent of the vehicle owner or, if the  
vehicle is leased, with the consent of the lessee,  
Reporting Safety Defects  
Reporting Safety Defects to the  
United States Government  
in response to an official request of police or similar  
government office,  
as part of GM’s defense of litigation through the  
discovery process, or  
as required by law.  
In addition, once GM collects or receives data, GM may:  
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could  
cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you  
should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic  
Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying  
General Motors.  
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an  
investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in  
a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy  
campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in  
individual problems between you, your dealer, or  
General Motors.  
use the data for GM research needs,  
make it available for research where appropriate  
confidentiality is to be maintained and need is  
shown, or  
share summary data which is not tied to a specific  
vehicle with non-GM organizations for research  
purposes.  
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:  
Others, such as law enforcement, may have access to  
the special equipment that can read the information  
if they have access to the vehicle or the device  
that stores the data.  
If your vehicle is equipped with OnStar®, please check  
the OnStar® subscription service agreement or manual  
for information on its operations and data collection.  
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation  
Washington, D.C. 20590  
You can also obtain other information about motor  
vehicle safety from the hotline.  
7-10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Reporting Safety Defects to the  
Canadian Government  
Service Publications Ordering  
Information  
If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle  
has a safety defect, you should immediately notify  
Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General  
Motors of Canada Limited. You may call them at  
1-800-333-0510 or write to:  
Service Manuals  
Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair  
information on engines, transmission, axle suspension,  
brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc.  
Transport Canada  
Place de Ville Tower C  
330 Sparks Street  
Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer  
Case Unit Repair Manual  
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5  
This manual provides information on unit repair  
service procedures, adjustments, and specifications for  
GM transmissions, transaxles, and transfer cases.  
Reporting Safety Defects to  
General Motors  
In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in  
a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notify us.  
Please call us at 1-800-GMC-8782 (1-800-462-8782),  
or write:  
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.  
GMC Customer Assistance Center  
P.O. Box 33172  
Detroit, MI 48232-5172  
In Canada, information pertaining to Product Service  
Bulletins can be obtained by contacting your General  
Motors dealer or by calling 1-800-GM-DRIVE  
(1-800-463-7483).  
In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English)  
or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write:  
General Motors of Canada Limited  
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005  
1908 Colonel Sam Drive  
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7  
7-11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123  
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM  
Eastern Time  
Owner’s Information  
Owner publications are written specifically for owners  
and intended to provide basic operational information  
about the vehicle. The owner’s manual will include  
the Maintenance Schedule for all models.  
For Credit Card Orders Only  
(VISA-MasterCard-Discover), visit Helm, Inc. on the  
World Wide Web at: www.helminc.com  
In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner’s Manual, and  
Warranty Booklet.  
Or you can write to:  
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00  
Helm, Incorporated  
P.O. Box 07130  
Detroit, MI 48207  
Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only.  
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $25.00  
Prices are subject to change without notice and without  
incurring obligation. Allow ample time for delivery.  
Current and Past Model Order Forms  
Note to Canadian Customers: All listed prices are  
quoted in U.S. funds. Canadian residents are to make  
checks payable in U.S. funds.  
Service Publications are available for current and  
past model GM vehicles. To request an order form,  
please specify year and model name of the vehicle.  
7-12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
1
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Audio System(s) (cont.)  
2
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Cleaning (cont.)  
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Customer Assistance Information (cont.)  
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Electrical System (cont.)  
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Headlamps (cont.)  
G
HomeLink® Wireless Control System ................. 2-49  
HomeLink® Wireless Control System  
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
LATCH System (cont.)  
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Maintenance Schedule (cont.)  
8
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Outside (cont.)  
N
Navigation/Radio System, see Navigation  
Passlock® ...................................................... 2-18  
OnStar® System, see OnStar® Manual ............... 2-47  
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Rearview Mirror with OnStar® ........................... 2-37  
Rearview Mirror with OnStar® and Compass ....... 2-40  
Q
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ......... 1-17  
10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Restraint System Check (cont.)  
11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Passlock® ................................................... 2-18  
12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Tires (cont.)  
13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
W
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators ................ 3-31  
14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Ecom Instruments Home Safety Product H 251 A User Manual
Edelbrock Automobile Parts GM 1500 Series User Manual
Fostex Portable Speaker FE103E User Manual
Frigidaire Air Conditioner FRP15ETT2R User Manual
Fuel Fitness Treadmill FT94 User Manual
FujiFilm Digital Camera 16243252 User Manual
Fundex Games Games Paddle Pool User Manual
Generac Power Systems Portable Generator 04136 0 User Manual
Gitzo Camcorder Accessories G1588 User Manual
GN Netcom Conference Phone E2555 User Manual