2009 Chevrolet Express Owners Manual

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If an airbag inﬂates, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier in this section. Have the safety belt pretensioners checked if the vehicle has been in a crash, if the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started, or while you are driving. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-27. Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash { CAUTION: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible. If the vehicle has been in a crash, do you need new safety belts or LATCH system (if equipped) parts? After a very minor crash, nothing may be necessary. But the safety belt assemblies that were used during any crash may have been stressed or damaged. See your dealer/retailer to have the safety belt assemblies inspected or replaced. 1-76 Section 2 Features and Controls Keys ...............................................................2-2 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System ................2-3 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation ...................................................2-4 Doors and Locks .............................................2-6 Door Locks ....................................................2-6 Power Door Locks ..........................................2-7 Cargo Door Relocking .....................................2-7 Delayed Locking .............................................2-7 Programmable Automatic Door Locks ................2-7 Automatic Door Lock .......................................2-8 Automatic Door Unlock ....................................2-8 Rear Door Security Locks ................................2-8 Lockout Protection ..........................................2-9 Sliding Side Door ...........................................2-9 60/40 Swing-Out Side Door ............................2-10 Rear Doors ..................................................2-12 Windows ........................................................2-13 Manual Windows ..........................................2-14 Power Windows ............................................2-14 Swing-Out Windows ......................................2-15 Enhanced Technology Glass ..........................2-16 Sun Visors ...................................................2-16 Theft-Deterrent Systems ..................................2-16 PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer .............2-17 PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer Operation .................................................2-17 Starting and Operating Your Vehicle ................2-19 New Vehicle Break-In ....................................2-19 Ignition Positions ..........................................2-19 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...................2-20 Starting the Engine .......................................2-20 Fast Idle System ..........................................2-22 Engine Coolant Heater ..................................2-23 Automatic Transmission Operation ...................2-24 Tow/Haul Mode ............................................2-27 Parking Brake ..............................................2-28 Shifting Into Park ..........................................2-29 Shifting Out of Park ......................................2-30 Parking Over Things That Burn .......................2-31 Engine Exhaust ............................................2-31 Running the Vehicle While Parked ..................2-32 Mirrors ...........................................................2-33 Manual Rearview Mirror .................................2-33 Outside Manual Mirrors ..................................2-33 Outside Towing Mirrors ..................................2-33 Outside Power Mirrors ...................................2-34 Outside Convex Mirror ...................................2-34 Outside Heated Mirrors ..................................2-35 Storage Areas ................................................2-35 2-1 Keys { CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons, children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keys in the ignition and children could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children. 2-2 The key can be used for the ignition and all door locks. The key has a bar-coded key tag that the dealer/retailer or qualiﬁed locksmith can use to make new keys. Store this information in a safe place, not in your vehicle. Notice: you may have to damage the vehicle to get in. Be sure you have spare keys. If you are locked out of your vehicle, call Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-8. If you ever lock your keys in the vehicle, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System If this vehicle has the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system, it operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. 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. Changes or modiﬁcations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. If there is a decrease in the RKE operating range, try this: • Check the distance. The transmitter may be too far from the vehicle. Stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. • Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again. • Check the transmitter’s battery. See “Battery Replacement” later in this section. • If the transmitter is still not working correctly, see your dealer/retailer or a qualiﬁed technician for service. 2-3 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter functions work up to 65 feet (20 m) away from the vehicle. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 2-3. Q (Lock): Press once to lock all doors. If enabled through the Driver Information Center (DIC), the parking lamps ﬂash once to indicate locking has occurred. 2-4 The horn may chirp when Q is pressed again within ﬁve seconds. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-57 for additional information. W (Unlock): Press to unlock the driver door. If W is pressed again within ﬁve seconds, all remaining doors unlock. The interior lamps come on and stay on for 20 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. If enabled through the DIC, the parking lamps ﬂash twice to indicate unlocking has occurred. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-57 for additional information. j (Cargo Door): Press to unlock only the cargo doors. L (Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): Press and release to locate the vehicle. The turn signal lamps ﬂash and the horn sounds three times. Press and hold L for more than two seconds to activate the panic alarm. The turn signal lamps ﬂash and the horn sounds repeatedly for 30 seconds. The alarm turns off when the ignition is moved to ON/RUN or L is pressed again. The ignition must be in LOCK/OFF for the panic alarm to work. Programming Transmitters to the Vehicle Only RKE transmitters programmed to the vehicle will work. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased and programmed through your dealer/retailer. When the replacement transmitter is programmed to the vehicle, all remaining transmitters must also be programmed. Any lost or stolen transmitters no longer work once the new transmitter is programmed. Each vehicle can have up to four transmitters programmed to it. See “Relearn Remote Key” under DIC Operation and Displays on page 3-41 for instructions on how to match RKE transmitters to your vehicle. Battery Replacement Replace the battery if the REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY message displays in the DIC. See “REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-48 for additional information. Notice: When replacing the battery, do not touch any of the circuitry on the transmitter. Static from your body could damage the transmitter. To replace the battery: 1. Separate the transmitter with a ﬂat, thin object inserted into the notch on the side of the transmitter. 2. Remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. 3. Insert the new battery, positive side facing down. Replace with a CR2032 or equivalent battery. 4. Snap the transmitter back together. 2-5 Doors and Locks Door Locks { CAUTION: To lock the door from the inside, slide the manual lever on the door down. To unlock the door, slide the manual lever up. From the outside, use the key. If the vehicle is equipped with keyless entry, see Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 2-3 for more information. 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. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear safety belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven. • 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 the vehicle whenever leaving it. • 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. 2-6 Power Door Locks On vehicles with power door locks, the switches are located on the doors. T : Press the bottom of the switch to lock all the doors at once. Press the top of the switch to unlock all the doors at once. When a door is locked, the inside door handle will not work. Cargo Door Relocking If the cargo door is open when the lock button is pressed on the door or the RKE transmitter, all doors will lock except the cargo door. The cargo door will only lock when they are closed or when the delayed locking feature functions. Delayed Locking When locking the doors with the power lock switch and a door open, the doors will lock ﬁve seconds after the last door is closed. You will hear three chimes to signal that the delayed locking feature is in use. Pressing the power lock switch twice or the lock button on the RKE transmitter twice will override the delayed locking feature and immediately lock all the doors. This feature will not operate if the key is in the ignition. This feature can be programmed using the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DELAY DOOR LOCK under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-57. Programmable Automatic Door Locks The vehicle is programmed so that when the doors are closed, the ignition is on and the shift lever is moved out of P (Park), all the doors will lock. The doors will unlock every time you stop the vehicle and move the shift lever back into P (Park). If someone needs to exit the vehicle once the doors are locked, have that person use the manual lever or power door lock switch for the rear doors. When the door is closed again, it will not lock automatically. Use the manual lever or the power door lock switch to lock the door. The power door locks can be programmed through the Driver Information Center (DIC). For more information on programming, see DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-57. 2-7 For the 60/40 side swing-out door, move the button to the right for the driver side door or to the left for the passenger side door to engage the security feature. 60/40 Swing-Out Side Door — Driver Side shown, Passenger Side similar Move the button to the left for the driver side door or to the right for the passenger side door to return the door locks to normal operation. Automatic Door Lock The doors will automatically lock when the shift lever is moved out of P (Park). The automatic door locking feature cannot be disabled. Automatic Door Unlock The doors will automatically unlock when the shift lever is moved into P (Park). The automatic unlock feature can be disabled or programmed in different ways if the vehicle has an automatic transmission. For more information on programming, see DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-57. Rear Door Security Locks Security locks are located on the front portion of the 60/40 side swing-out door or the side sliding door. 2-8 Sliding Side Door For the side sliding door, move the button up to engage the security feature. Move the button down to return the door locks to normal operation. Side Sliding Door Lockout Protection This feature protects you from locking the key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when either the driver, passenger, or rear door is open, all the doors will lock and then the driver door will unlock. This feature does not include the side cargo door. To open the sliding side door from the outside, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle and slide the door open. To close the sliding side door from the outside, use the handle to slide the door toward the front of the vehicle. When the door is closed, it will be ﬂush with the side of the body. 2-9 60/40 Swing-Out Side Door To open the sliding side door from the inside, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle. Then, slide the door toward the rear of the vehicle. To close the sliding side door from the inside, grasp the handle and slide the door toward the front of the vehicle. Make sure the door is completely closed before driving away. To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull out on the handle and open the door. 2-10 To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the inside, pull the handle toward you and push the door open. To open the rear portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull the handle on the side of the rear door and pull the door toward you. To close the 60/40 side doors, close the rear door ﬁrst. Then close the front door. Check to make sure that both doors are completely closed. The front side swing-out door has a check strap assembly in the door frame to keep the door from opening beyond 90 degrees. To open the door beyond 90 degrees, close the door partially, pull the check strap toward you and then open the door. When the door is closed, the check strap will automatically re-engage. 2-11 Rear Doors { CAUTION: To open the rear doors from the outside, pull the handle toward you to open the passenger side rear door ﬁrst. 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. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear safety belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven. • 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 the vehicle whenever leaving it. • 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. 2-12 To open the driver side rear door, pull the latch release at the inside edge of the door. To close the rear doors, close the driver side rear door ﬁrst. Then close the passenger side rear door. Check to make sure both doors are completely closed. 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. 2-13 Manual Windows Operate the manual windows by turning the hand crank on each door to raise or lower the side door windows. If the vehicle has power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors. Power Windows { CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the keys is dangerous for many reasons, children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function and they could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave keys in a vehicle with children. When there are children in the rear seat use the window lockout button to prevent unintentional operation of the windows. 2-14 The driver door has a switch for the passenger window also. The power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY, or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 2-20. Press the switch to lower the window. Pull up on the front edge of the switch to raise the window. Express-Down The driver window switch also has an express-down feature that allows the window to be lowered without holding the switch. Press fully and release the window switch marked AUTO to activate the express-down mode. This mode can be cancelled at any time by pulling up on the switch. To open the window part way, lightly tap the switch until the window is at the desired position. Swing-Out Windows Side Swing-Out Window To open the side door swing-out window, pull up on the latch at the edge of the window. Swing the window out and push down on the latch to lock the window into place. To close the window, pull the latch toward you and push down on the latch to lock it. Rear Swing-Out Windows The vehicle also has rear swing-out windows. The rear swing-out windows work the same way as the side swing out window, but the latch is located at the bottom edge of the window. 2-15 Sun Visors To block out glare, swing down the sun visors. You can also swing them to the side. Visor Vanity Mirror The vehicle may have visor vanity mirrors, with or without lamps. Lift the mirror cover to turn the lamps on, if equipped. Theft-Deterrent Systems Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. This vehicle has theft-deterrent features, however, they do not make it impossible to steal. Enhanced Technology Glass The vehicle may be equipped with Enhanced Technology Glass (ETG). ETG is part of the overall occupant protection system on passenger vans. ETG may help to keep passengers sitting next to these ﬁxed windows from being ejected through the glass in some, but not in all crashes. Even with this glass, safety belts must still be worn at all times. For passenger vans, use only ETG glass approved for your vehicle for replacement when damaged. The following table shows laminated glass location, based on vehicle model and options. Vehicle Conﬁguration ETG Locations Eight Seat Passenger Vans Twelve and Fifteen Seat Passenger Vans Sliding door forward window Sliding door forward window and rear-most side windows Long Wheelbase Cargo Vans Rear-most side windows 2-16 PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer The PASS-Key III+ system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. 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. Changes or modiﬁcations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. PASS-Key III+ uses a radio frequency transponder in the key that matches a decoder in the vehicle. PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer Operation Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key® III+ (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key® III+ is a passive theft-deterrent system. The system is automatically armed when the key is removed from the ignition. You do not have to manually arm or disarm the system. The security light will come on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system. When the PASS-Key® III+ system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. The starter will not work and fuel will stop being delivered to the engine. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start the vehicle will be discouraged because of the high number of electrical key codes. 2-17 If the engine does not start and the security message comes on, the key may have a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off and try again. If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the instrument panel PASS KEY fuse. If the engine still does not start with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the ﬁrst key may be faulty. See your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-108. It is possible for the PASS-Key® III+ decoder to learn the transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle. This procedure is for learning additional keys only. If all the currently programmed keys are lost or do not operate, you must see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to have keys made and programmed to the system. See your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to get a new key blank that is cut exactly as the ignition key that operates the system. To program the new key: 1. Verify the new key has 1 stamped on it. 2. Insert the original, already programmed key into the ignition lock cylinder and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer/retailer for service. 3. After the engine has started, turn the key to LOCK/OFF and remove the key. 4. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to ON/RUN within 10 seconds of removing the previous key. The security message will turn off once the key has been programmed. It may not be apparent that the security message went on due to how quickly the key is programmed. 5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if additional keys are to be programmed. If you lose or damage a PASS-Key® III+ key, see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made. Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle. 2-18 Starting and Operating Your Vehicle New Vehicle Break-In Notice: The vehicle does not need an elaborate break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: (cid:129) Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the ﬁrst 500 miles (805 km). (cid:129) Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or slow, for the ﬁrst 500 miles (805 km). Do not make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to brake or slow the vehicle. (cid:129) Avoid making hard stops for the ﬁrst 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time the 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. (cid:129) Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See Towing a Trailer on page 4-27 for the trailer towing capabilities of the vehicle and more information. Following break-in, engine speed and load can be gradually increased. Ignition Positions The ignition switch has four different positions. To shift out of P (Park), the ignition must be in ON/RUN and the regular brake pedal applied. A (LOCK/OFF): This position locks the ignition and transmission. You will only be able to remove the key when the ignition is turned to LOCK/OFF. Notice: Using a tool to force the key to turn in the ignition could cause damage to the switch or break the key. Use the correct key, make sure it is all the way in, and turn it only with your hand. If the key cannot be turned by hand, see your dealer/retailer. 2-19 B (ACC/ACCESSORY): This is the position in which you can operate things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. C (ON/RUN): This position can be used to operate the electrical accessories and to display some instrument panel cluster warning and indicator lights. The switch stays in this position when the engine is running. If you leave the key in the ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN position with the engine off, the battery could be drained. You may not be able to start the vehicle if the battery is allowed to drain for an extended period of time. D (START): This is the position that starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch returns to ON/RUN for driving. A warning tone will sound when the driver door is opened, the ignition is in ACC/ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF and the key is in the ignition. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) These vehicle accessories can be used for up to 10 minutes after the engine is turned off: • Audio System • Power Windows (if equipped) These features will work when the ignition key is in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from ON/RUN to LOCK/OFF, power to the radio will continue to work 10 minutes or until the driver door is opened. The power windows will continue to work for up to 10 minutes or until any door is opened. Starting the Engine If the vehicle has the DURAMAX® Diesel engine, see the DURAMAX® Diesel manual for more information. To place the transmission in the proper gear: Move the shift lever to P (Park) or N (Neutral). The engine will not start in any other position. To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only. 2-20 Starting Procedure 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently to allow the oil to warm up and lubricate all moving parts. The vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking System. This feature assists in starting the engine and protects components. If the ignition key is turned to the START position, and then released when the engine begins cranking, the engine will continue cranking for a few seconds or until the vehicle starts. If the engine does not start and the key is held in START for many seconds, cranking will be stopped after 15 seconds to prevent cranking motor damage. To prevent gear damage, this system also prevents cranking if the engine is already running. Engine cranking can be stopped by turning the ignition switch to the ACC/ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF position. Notice: Cranking the engine for long periods of time, by returning the key to the START position immediately after cranking has ended, can overheat and damage the cranking motor, and drain the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to let the cranking motor cool down. 2. If the engine does not start after 5-10 seconds, especially in very cold weather (below 0°F or −18°C), it could be ﬂooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing the accelerator pedal all the way to the ﬂoor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for up to 15 seconds. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down. When the engine starts, let go of the key and accelerator. If the vehicle starts brieﬂy but then stops again, do the same thing. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts. Notice: The engine is designed to work with the electronics in the vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer/retailer. If you do not, the engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. 2-21 Fast Idle System Fast Idle System with Switch If the vehicle has this feature it is available only with cruise control. The manual fast idle switch is operated using the cruise control buttons located on the left hand side of the steering wheel. This system can be used to increase engine idle speed whenever the following conditions are met: • The park brake is set. • The brake pedal is not pressed. • The vehicle must not be moving and the accelerator must not be pressed. To control the fast idle: • To Enable the Fast idle, press and release the Cruise Control On/Off button and ensure that the LED is lit. • For the preset Fast Idle, press and release the cruise set switch. This will set the preset fast idle speed. • For the variable fast idle, press and hold the accelerator at the desired RPM, then press and release the cruise control cruise set switch to set the desired idle speed. When the fast idle is active the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display “FAST IDLE ON.” One of the following actions will turn off the fast idle: • Pressing the brake. • Selecting the Cancel button. • Releasing the Parking Brake. • The transmission shifter is moved out of P (Park) or N (Neutral). • Selecting the cruise control on/off button when it was previously on. 2-22 Engine Coolant Heater If the vehicle has the DURAMAX Diesel engine, see the DURAMAX Diesel manual for more information. The engine coolant heater can provide easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up in cold weather conditions at or below 0°F (−18°C). Vehicles with an engine coolant heater should be plugged in at least four hours before starting. An internal thermostat in the plug-end of the cord may exist which will prevent engine coolant heater operation at temperatures above 0°F (−18°C). To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The cord for the engine coolant heater is located on the driver side of the engine compartment and is attached to the hose for the power steering reservoir. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. { CAUTION: 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. 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 and prevent damage. The length of time the heater should remain plugged in depends on several factors. Ask a dealer/retailer in the area where you will be parking the vehicle for the best advice on this. 2-23 Automatic Transmission Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever. P (Park): This position locks your rear wheels. It is the best position to use when you start the engine because the vehicle cannot move easily. 2-24 { CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. The vehicle can roll. Do not leave the 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 the vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set the parking brake and move the shift lever to P (Park). See Shifting Into Park on page 2-29. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-27. Make sure the shift lever is fully in P (Park) before starting the engine. The vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You must ﬁrst press the brake pedal before you can shift from P (Park) with the ignition in ON/RUN. If you cannot shift out of P (Park), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into P (Park) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into another gear. See Shifting Out of Park on page 2-30. R (Reverse): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to R (Reverse) while the vehicle is moving forward could damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Shift to R (Reverse) only after the vehicle is stopped. To rock the vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging the transmission, see If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 4-18. N (Neutral): In this position, the engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only. Also, use N (Neutral) when the vehicle is being towed. { CAUTION: Shifting into a drive gear while the engine is running at high speed is dangerous. Unless your foot is ﬁrmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Do not shift into a drive gear while the engine is running at high speed. Notice: Shifting out of P (Park) or N (Neutral) with the engine running at high speed may damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Be sure the engine is not running at high speed when shifting the vehicle. 2-25 D (Drive): This position is for normal driving. It provides the best fuel economy. If you need more power for passing, and you are: • 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. You will shift down to the next gear and have more power. Downshifting the transmission in slippery road conditions could result in skidding, see “Skidding” under Loss of Control on page 4-11. 3 (Third): This position is also used for normal driving. However it reduces vehicle speed more than D (Drive) without using the brakes. You might choose 3 (Third) instead of D (Drive) when driving on hilly, winding roads, when towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between gears and when going down a steep hill. You should use 3 (Third) (or a lower gear as needed) when towing a trailer to minimize heat build-up and extend the life of the transmission. 2 (Second): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than 3 (Third) without using the brakes. You can use 2 (Second) on hills. It can help control vehicle speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use the brakes off and on. You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start the vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. 1 (First): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than 2 (Second) without using the brakes. You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in 1 (First) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission will not shift into ﬁrst gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough. Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transmission. The repair will not be covered by the vehicle warranty. If you are stuck, do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill, use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place. 2-26 Tow/Haul Mode Tow/haul is designed to assist while the vehicle is pulling a large or heavy load or trailer. Tow/haul is most useful while pulling such a load in rolling terrain, in stop-and-go traffic, or when you need improved low-speed control, such as when parking. The purpose of the tow/haul mode is to: • Reduce the frequency and improve the predictability of transmission shifts, • provide the same solid shift feel when pulling a heavy load as when the vehicle is unloaded, • improve control of vehicle speed while requiring less throttle pedal activity. Press this button located to the right of the steering wheel on the instrument panel to turn tow/haul mode on and off. While activated, the indicator light on the instrument panel will be on. Tow/haul mode will turn off automatically when the ignition is turned off. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 3-40. Tow/haul is most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75 percent of the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). See “Weight of the Trailer” later in this section. Driving with tow/haul activated without a heavy load will cause reduced fuel economy and unpleasant engine and transmission driving characteristics, but will not cause damage. 2-27 Parking Brake To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the handle, located just above the parking brake pedal, with the parking brake symbol, to release the parking brake. If the ignition is on when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off. 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. If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-27. To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal, then push down the parking brake pedal. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. 2-28 Shifting Into Park { CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. The vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure the vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-27. 1. Hold the brake pedal down and set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-28 2. Move the shift lever into P (Park) by pulling the shift lever toward you and moving it up as far as it will go. 3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK/OFF. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave the vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, the vehicle is in P (Park). Leaving the Vehicle With the Engine Running { CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave the vehicle with the engine running. The vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch ﬁre. You or others could be injured. Do not leave the vehicle with the engine running. If you have to leave the vehicle with the engine running, be sure the vehicle is in P (Park) and the parking brake is ﬁrmly set before you leave it. After you move the shift lever into P (Park), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from P (Park) without ﬁrst pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever was not fully locked into P (Park). 2-29 Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift the vehicle into P (Park) 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 P (Park). This is called torque lock. To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into P (Park) properly before you leave the driver seat. To ﬁnd out how, see Shifting Into Park on page 2-29. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of P (Park) 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 P (Park). Shifting Out of Park The vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply the brakes before you can shift from P (Park) when the ignition is in ON/RUN. See Automatic Transmission Operation on page 2-24. The shift lock control system is designed to do the following: • Prevent the ignition key from being removed unless the shift lever is in P (Park). • Prevent movement of the shift lever out of P (Park), unless the ignition is in ON/RUN and the regular brake pedal is applied. The shift lock control system is always functional except in the case of a dead battery or low voltage (less than 9 V) battery. If the vehicle has an uncharged battery or a battery with low voltage, try charging or jump starting the battery. See Jump Starting on page 5-41 for more information. To shift out of P (Park) use the following: 1. Apply the brake pedal. 2. Move the shift lever to the desired position. If you still are unable to shift out of P (Park): 1. Ease the pressure on the shift lever. 2. While holding down the brake pedal, push the shift lever all the way into P (Park) 3. Move the shift lever to the desired position. If you are still having a problem shifting, then have the vehicle serviced. 2-30 Parking Over Things That Burn { CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under the vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other things that can burn. Engine Exhaust { CAUTION: Engine exhaust and fuel operated heater exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. If your vehicle has a diesel engine and a fuel operated heater, see “Fuel Operated Heater (FOH)” in the diesel engine supplement. CAUTION: (Continued) CAUTION: (Continued) You might have exhaust coming in if: • The 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 the exhaust system has been modiﬁed improperly. If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: • Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO. • Have your vehicle ﬁxed immediately. 2-31 Running the Vehicle While Parked It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. { CAUTION: { CAUTION: Idling a vehicle in an enclosed area with poor ventilation is dangerous. Engine exhaust may enter the vehicle. Engine exhaust contains Carbon Monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. Never run the engine in an enclosed area that has no fresh air ventilation. For more information, see Engine Exhaust on page 2-31. It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the automatic transmission shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. The vehicle can roll. Do not leave the 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 the vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set the parking brake and move the shift lever to P (Park). Follow the proper steps to be sure the vehicle will not move. See Shifting Into Park on page 2-29. If parking on a hill and pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-27. 2-32 Mirrors Outside Towing Mirrors Manual Rearview Mirror Hold the inside rearview mirror in the center to move it for a clearer view behind your vehicle. Adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the headlamps behind. Push the tab forward for daytime use and pull it for nighttime use. If you have a cargo van without the rear door glass, the vehicle may not have an inside rearview mirror. Outside Manual Mirrors Adjust the mirrors by pressing the mirror up and down and left and right so you can see a little of the side of your vehicle, and have a clear view of objects behind you. The mirrors can be manually folded in or out. On the lower portion of each mirror is an auxiliary convex mirror. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver seat. The auxiliary convex mirrors can be adjusted manually by pressing the mirror. Vehicles with towing mirrors can be adjusted manually for a clear view of the objects behind you. On the lower portion of each mirror there is an auxiliary convex mirror that can be adjusted manually to provide an extended ﬁeld of view. The mirrors can be manually folded in or out. 2-33 Outside Power Mirrors Outside Convex Mirror Vehicles with outside power mirrors have controls located on the driver side door. { CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on the right. Check the inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes. The passenger side mirror is convex shaped. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so more can be seen from the driver seat. Select each mirror by turning the knob clockwise for the passenger side mirror or counterclockwise for the driver side mirror. The center position is neutral. Then, adjust the mirror angle by moving the knob in the desired direction. The auxiliary convex mirrors can only be adjusted manually. 2-34 Outside Heated Mirrors For vehicles with heated mirrors: < (Rear Defogger): Press to heat the mirrors. An indicator light in the button lights when the outside heated mirrors are activated. See “Rear Window Defogger” under Climate Control System on page 3-18 for more information. Storage Areas Your vehicle may have a front storage compartment. It is located at the center of the instrument panel extension, by the ﬂoor. To open the compartment, pull up on the latch. The compartment will open automatically. Storage compartments may also be included on the inside of each front door. 2-35 ✍ NOTES 2-36 Section 3 Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Overview ...............................3-4 Hazard Warning Flashers ................................3-6 Horn .............................................................3-6 Tilt Wheel .....................................................3-6 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever .........................3-7 Turn and Lane-Change Signals ........................3-7 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer ..................3-8 Flash-to-Pass .................................................3-8 Windshield Wipers ..........................................3-8 Windshield Washer .........................................3-9 Cruise Control ................................................3-9 Exterior Lamps .............................................3-12 Headlamps on Reminder ................................3-13 Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) .......................3-14 Automatic Headlamp System ..........................3-14 Instrument Panel Brightness ...........................3-15 Dome Lamps ...............................................3-15 Dome Lamp Override ....................................3-15 Entry/Exit Lighting .........................................3-16 Reading Lamps ............................................3-16 Electric Power Management ...........................3-16 Battery Run-Down Protection ..........................3-17 Accessory Power Outlet(s) .............................3-17 Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter ......................3-18 Climate Controls ............................................3-18 Climate Control System .................................3-18 Outlet Adjustment .........................................3-20 Rear Heating System ....................................3-21 Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System .........................................3-22 Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators ............3-23 Instrument Panel Cluster ................................3-24 Speedometer and Odometer ...........................3-25 Trip Odometer ..............................................3-25 Safety Belt Reminders ...................................3-26 Airbag Readiness Light ..................................3-27 Airbag Off Light ............................................3-28 Passenger Airbag Status Indicator ...................3-29 Charging System Light ..................................3-30 Voltmeter Gage ............................................3-31 Brake System Warning Light ..........................3-31 Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light .....3-32 StabiliTrak® Indicator Light .............................3-33 Engine Coolant Temperature Gage ..................3-33 Tire Pressure Light .......................................3-34 Malfunction Indicator Lamp .............................3-34 Oil Pressure Gage ........................................3-37 Oil Pressure Light .........................................3-38 Security Light ...............................................3-39 3-1 Section 3 Instrument Panel Cruise Control Light ......................................3-39 Highbeam On Light .......................................3-39 Tow/Haul Mode Light ....................................3-40 Fuel Gage ...................................................3-40 Driver Information Center (DIC) .......................3-41 DIC Operation and Displays ...........................3-41 DIC Compass ..............................................3-46 DIC Warnings and Messages .........................3-48 DIC Vehicle Customization .............................3-57 Audio System(s) .............................................3-64 Setting the Clock ..........................................3-65 Radio(s) ......................................................3-67 Using an MP3 ..............................................3-78 Theft-Deterrent Feature ..................................3-82 Audio Steering Wheel Controls .......................3-83 Radio Reception ...........................................3-84 Fixed Mast Antenna ......................................3-84 3-2 ✍ NOTES 3-3 Instrument Panel Overview 3-4 The main components of the instrument panel are the following: A. Outlet Adjustment on page 3-20. B. Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-41. C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7. D. Hazard Warning Flashers on page 3-6. E. Instrument Panel Cluster on page 3-24. F. Shift Lever. See Starting the Engine on page 2-20. G. Climate Control System on page 3-18. H. Audio System(s) on page 3-64. I. Exterior Lamps on page 3-12. J. Instrument Panel Brightness on page 3-15. K. Cruise Control on page 3-9. Fast Idle System (If Equipped). See Duramax Diesel Manual for more information. L. Tilt Wheel on page 3-6. M. Horn on page 3-6. N. Audio Steering Wheel Controls on page 3-83. O. Tow/Haul Mode Button. See “Tow/Haul Mode” under Towing a Trailer on page 4-27. P. Accessory Power Outlet(s) on page 3-17 and Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter on page 3-18. Q. StabiliTrak® System on page 4-6 (If Equipped). R. Airbag Off Switch on page 1-65. S. Storage Areas on page 2-35. T. Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 3-29. U. Rear Heating System on page 3-21 (If Equipped). 3-5 Hazard Warning Flashers | (Hazard Warning Flasher): Press this button located on top of the steering column, to make the front and rear turn signal lamps ﬂash on and off. This warns others that you are having trouble. Press again to turn the ﬂashers off. When the hazard warning ﬂashers are on, the vehicle’s turn signals will not work. Horn Press the horn symbol in the middle of the steering wheel to sound the horn. Tilt Wheel For vehicles with a tilt wheel, it lets the steering wheel position be adjusted. 3-6 The lever is located on the left side of the steering column. Pull the lever to move the steering wheel up or down, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place. Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever The lever on the left side of the steering column includes the following: G : Turn and Lane Change Signals. 5 3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer. N : Windshield Wipers. L : Windshield Washer. Flash-to-Pass Feature. Information for these features is on the pages following. Turn and Lane-Change Signals G : An arrow on the instrument panel cluster ﬂashes in the direction of the turn or lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. To signal a lane change, raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to ﬂash. The turn signal automatically ﬂashes three times and if the tow-haul mode is active it ﬂashes six times. Holding the turn signal lever for more than one second causes the turn signals to ﬂash continually until the lever is released. The lever returns to its starting position when released. If after signaling a turn or lane change the arrow ﬂashes rapidly or does not come on, a signal bulb may be burned out. Have the bulbs replaced. If the bulb is not burned out, check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-108. Turn Signal On Chime If the turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime sounds at each ﬂash of the turn signal and the message TURN SIGNAL ON also appears in the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-48. To turn off the chime and message, move the turn signal lever to the off position. 3-7 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer 2 3 (Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer): Pull the turn signal lever all the way toward you to change the headlamps from low to high beam. Then release it. This instrument panel cluster light comes on when the high beam headlamps are on. Flash-to-Pass This feature is used to signal to the vehicle ahead that you want to pass. If the headlamps are off or in the low-beam position, pull the turn signal lever toward you to momentarily switch to high-beams. Release the lever to turn the high-beam headlamps off. 3-8 Windshield Wipers The windshield wiper control is located on the multifunction lever on the left side of the steering wheel. Turn the band with N on it to the following positions: 8 (Mist): For a single wiping cycle, hold the band on mist until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one wipe. If more wipes are needed, hold the band on mist longer. 6 Delay: Turn the band to adjust the delay time between wipes. The closer to the top of the lever, the shorter the delay. d (Low Speed): For steady wiping at low speed. a (High Speed): For steady wiping at high speed. 9 (Off): Turns the wipers off. When driving during the day and the wipers are activated, the head lamps automatically turn on after completing eight wipe cycles. Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they are frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If the blades become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Windshield Washer The windshield wiper paddle is located on top of the multifunction lever. L (Washer Fluid): Push the paddle to spray washer ﬂuid on the windshield. The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to the preset speed. { 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. Cruise Control { CAUTION: Cruise control can be dangerous where you cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do not use the cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause excessive wheel slip, and you could lose control. Do not use cruise control on slippery roads. With cruise control, a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more can be maintained without keeping your foot on the accelerator. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). When the brakes are applied, cruise control is turned off. If the vehicle has StabiliTrak®, and the system begins to limit wheel spin, cruise control will automatically disengage. See StabiliTrak® System on page 4-6. When road conditions allow the cruise control to be safely used again, it can be turned back on. 3-9 Setting Cruise Control Cruise control will not work if the parking brake is set, or if the master cylinder brake ﬂuid level is low. The cruise control light on the instrument panel cluster comes on after the cruise control has been set to the desired speed. { CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control on when you are not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you do not want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control. 1. Press the I button. 2. Get up to the desired speed. 3. Press the SET− button located on the steering wheel and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator. The cruise control buttons are located on left side of the steering wheel. T (On/Off): This button can both activate and turn off the system. The indicator light on the button turns on when cruise control is on and turns off when cruise control is off. + RES (Resume/Accelerate): Press to make the vehicle accelerate or resume to a previously set speed. SET − (Set/Coast): Press to set the speed or make the vehicle decelerate. [ (Cancel): Press to cancel cruise control without erasing the set speed from memory. 3-10 Resuming a Set Speed If the cruise control is set at a desired speed and then the brakes are applied, this shuts off the cruise control. But it does not need to be reset. Once the vehicle speed reaches about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, press the +RES button on the steering wheel. The vehicle returns to the previously set speed and stays there. Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control To increase the cruise speed while using cruise control: • Press and hold the +RES button on the steering wheel until the desired speed is reached, then release it. • To increase vehicle speed in small increments, press the +RES button. Each time this is done, the vehicle goes about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster. Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control To reduce the vehicle speed while using cruise control: • Press and hold the SET– button on the steering wheel until the desired lower speed is reached, then release it. • To slow down in very small amounts, press the SET– button on the steering wheel brieﬂy. Each time this is done, the vehicle goes about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase the vehicle speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, the vehicle will slow down to the previous set cruise speed. 3-11 Using Cruise Control on Hills How well the cruise control will work on hills depends upon the vehicle speed, load, and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you might have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain the vehicle’s speed. When going downhill, you might have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep the vehicle’s speed down. When the brakes are applied the cruise control turns off. Ending Cruise Control There are three ways to end cruise control: • Step lightly on the brake pedal. • Press the [ button on the steering wheel. • Press the I button on the steering wheel. Erasing Speed Memory The cruise control set speed memory is erased when the cruise control or the ignition is turned off. Exterior Lamps The exterior lamps control is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. It controls the following systems: • Headlamps • Taillamps • Parking Lamps • License Plate Lamps • Instrument Panel Lights The exterior lamps control has four positions: 9 (Off): Brieﬂy turn the control to this position to turn the automatic headlamps and daytime running lamps (DRL) off or back on. 3-12 For vehicles ﬁrst sold in Canada, the off position only works for vehicles that are shifted into the P (Park) position. AUTO (Automatic): Turns on the headlamps automatically at normal brightness, together with the following: • Parking Lamps • Instrument Panel Lights • Taillamps • License Plate Lamps ; (Parking Lamps): Turns on the parking lamps together with the following: • Instrument Panel Lights • Taillamps • License Plate Lamps 2 (Headlamps): Turns on the headlamps together with the following lamps listed below. • Parking Lamps • Instrument Panel Lights • Taillamps • License Plate Lamps If the headlamps are turned on while the vehicle is on, the headlamps turn off automatically 10 minutes after the ignition is turned off. If the headlamps are turned on while the vehicle is off, the headlamps will continue to stay on. To prevent the battery from being drained, turn the control to the 9 position. A warning chime sounds if the driver door is opened while the ignition switch is off and the headlamps are on. To change the headlamps from low beam to high beam, push the turn signal/multifunction lever toward the instrument panel. Headlamps on Reminder If a door is open, a reminder chime sounds when the headlamps or parking lamps are manually turned on and the key is out of the ignition. To turn off the chime, turn the headlamp switch to off or auto and then back on, or close and re-open the door. In the auto mode, the headlamps turn off once the ignition is in LOCK/OFF or may remain on until the headlamp delay ends, if enabled in the Driver Information Center (DIC). See “Exit Lighting” under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-57. 3-13 Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. Fully functional daytime running lamps are required on all vehicles ﬁrst sold in Canada. The DRL system comes on in daylight when the following conditions are met: • The ignition is on. • The exterior lamps control is in the AUTO position. • The shift lever is not in P (Park). • The light sensor determines it is daytime. When the DRL are on, the taillamps, sidemarker, instrument panel and other lamps will not be on. The automatic headlamp system automatically switches from DRL to the headlamps depending on the darkness of the surroundings. To turn off the DRL, turn the exterior lamp control to the off position and then release it. For vehicles ﬁrst sold in Canada, the transmission must be in the P (Park) position, before the DRL can be turned off. Automatic Headlamp System When it is dark enough outside and the headlamp switch is in AUTO, the automatic headlamp system turns on the headlamps, along with the taillamps, sidemarker, parking lamps, roof marker lamps, and the instrument panel lights. The radio lights will also be dim. To turn off the automatic headlamp system, turn the exterior lamps switch to the off position and then release. For vehicles ﬁrst sold in Canada, the transmission must be in the P (Park) position, before the automatic headlamp system can be turned off. The vehicle has a light sensor located on the top of the instrument panel. Do not cover the sensor or the system will come on whenever the ignition is on. The system may also turn on the headlamps when driving through a parking garage or tunnel. 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 is only affected when the light sensor sees a change in lighting lasting longer than the delay. 3-14 If the vehicle is started in a dark garage, the automatic headlamp system comes on immediately. Once the vehicle leaves the garage, it takes approximately 30 seconds for the automatic headlamp system to change to DRL if it is light outside. During that delay, the instrument panel cluster may not be as bright as usual. Make sure the instrument panel brightness control is in the full bright position. See Instrument Panel Brightness on page 3-15. Instrument Panel Brightness The knob for this feature is located next to the exterior lamps control. D (Instrument Panel Lights): Push the knob to extend and then turn clockwise or counterclockwise to brighten or dim the instrument panel lights and the radio display. This only works if the headlamps or parking lamps are on. To turn on the dome lamps, with the vehicle doors closed, turn the knob all the way clockwise. Dome Lamps The dome lamps come on when any door is opened. They turn off after all the doors are closed. The dome lamps can also be turned on by turning the instrument panel brightness knob, located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering column, clockwise to the farthest position. In this position, the dome lamps remain on whether a door is opened or closed. Dome Lamp Override The dome lamp override button is located next to the exterior lamps control. The dome lamp override sets the dome lamps to remain off or come on automatically when a door is opened. E (Dome Lamp Override): Press the button in and the dome lamps remain off when a door is opened. Press the button again to return it to the extended position so that the dome lamps come on when a door is opened. 3-15 Entry/Exit Lighting The vehicle has an illuminated entry/exit feature. The dome lamps come on if the dome override button is in the out position, when a door is opened or the key is removed from the ignition. Reading Lamps For vehicles with reading lamps, press the button located next to each lamp to turn it on or off. The vehicle may also have reading lamps in other locations. The lamps cannot be adjusted. Electric Power Management The vehicle has Electric Power Management (EPM) that estimates the battery’s temperature and state of charge. It then adjusts the voltage for best performance and extended life of the battery. When the battery’s state of charge is low, the voltage is raised slightly to quickly bring the charge back up. When the state of charge is high, the voltage is lowered slightly to prevent overcharging. If the vehicle has a voltmeter gage or a voltage display on the Driver Information Center (DIC), you may see the voltage move up or down. This is normal. If there is a problem, an alert will be displayed. 3-16 The battery can be discharged at idle if the electrical loads are very high. This is true for all vehicles. This is because the generator (alternator) may not be spinning fast enough at idle to produce all the power that is needed for very high electrical loads. A high electrical load occurs when several of the following are on, such as: headlamps, high beams, fog lamps, rear window defogger, climate control fan at high speed, heated seats, engine cooling fans, trailer loads, and loads plugged into accessory power outlets. EPM works to prevent excessive discharge of the battery. It does this by balancing the generator’s output and the vehicle’s electrical needs. It can increase engine idle speed to generate more power, whenever needed. It can temporarily reduce the power demands of some accessories. Normally, these actions occur in steps or levels, without being noticeable. In rare cases at the highest levels of corrective action, this action may be noticeable to the driver. If so, a Driver Information Center (DIC) message might be displayed, such as BATTERY SAVER ACTIVE, BATTERY VOLTAGE LOW, or LOW BATTERY. If this message is displayed, it is recommended that the driver reduce the electrical loads as much as possible. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-48. Battery Run-Down Protection This feature shuts off the dome lamps if they are left on for more than 10 minutes when the ignition is in LOCK/OFF. This helps to prevent the battery from running down. Accessory Power Outlet(s) The accessory power outlets can be used to connect auxiliary electrical equipment, such as a cellular phone. The vehicle may have two accessory power outlets located on the instrument panel. To use the accessory power outlet lift the cover. The spring cap cover closes by itself when the outlet is empty. Certain power accessory plugs may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could result in blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer/retailer for additional information on the accessory power plugs. Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to the vehicle can damage it or keep other components from working as they should. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not use equipment exceeding maximum amperage rating of 20 amperes. Check with your dealer/retailer before adding electrical equipment. When adding electrical equipment, be sure to follow the proper installation instructions included with the equipment. Notice: damage not covered by the 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. Improper use of the power outlet can cause 3-17 If papers, pins, or other ﬂammable items Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter If your vehicle has this feature it is located in the center console or on the instrument panel. Pull up on the ashtray door to open it if it is in the console or pull the door open it if it is on the instrument panel. Notice: are put in the ashtray, hot cigarettes or other smoking materials could ignite them and possibly damage the vehicle. Never put ﬂammable items in the ashtray. To remove the ashtray, pull it out from the console or from the slide out door. To reinstall the ashtray, slide it back to the original position. To use the cigarette lighter, if the vehicle has one, push it in all the way, and let go. When it is ready for use, it will pop back out by itself. Do not use the lighter to plug in accessory devices. Use the power outlets provided. Notice: Holding a cigarette lighter in while it is heating does not let the lighter back away from the heating element when it is hot. Damage from overheating can occur to the lighter or heating element, or a fuse could be blown. Do not hold a cigarette lighter in while it is heating. 3-18 Climate Controls Climate Control System The heating, cooling, and ventilation for the vehicle can be controlled with this system. Vehicles Without Air Conditioning A. Fan Control B. Temperature Control C. Air Delivery Mode Control 9 (Fan Control): Turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the fan speed. 9 (Off): Turns the system off. Temperature Control: Turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the temperature inside the vehicle. Air Delivery Mode Control: Turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise to change the current airﬂow mode. H (Vent): Air is directed to the instrument panel outlets. ) (Bi-Level): Air is divided between the instrument panel and ﬂoor outlets, with some air directed toward the windshield. 6 (Floor): Air is directed to the ﬂoor outlets with some air directed to the windshield and side windows. - (Defog): This mode clears the windows of fog or moisture. Outside air is directed to the ﬂoor and defroster outlets. Adjust the temperature knob for warmer or cooler air. The air conditioning compressor might turn on in this setting to dehumidify the air. 1 (Defrost): This mode clears the windshield of fog or frost more quickly. Air is directed to the windshield, with some to the ﬂoor outlets and front side windows. The air conditioning compressor might turn on in this setting to dehumidify the air. Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear. Vehicles With Air Conditioning A. Fan Control B. Temperature Control C. Air Delivery Mode Control D. Rear Window Defogger On hot days, open the windows to let hot inside air escape; then close them. This helps to reduce the time needed for the vehicle to cool down and the system operates more efficiently. # (Air Conditioning): Cools and dehumidiﬁes the air inside of the vehicle. V (Maximum Air Conditioning): Cools the air inside the vehicle faster, by recirculating the inside air. 3-19 Rear Window Defogger For vehicles with a rear window defogger, a warming grid is used to remove fog or frost from the rear window. It only works when the ignition is in ON/RUN. < (Rear Window Defogger): Press to turn the rear window defogger on or off. The rear window defogger turns off several minutes after the button is pressed. If turned on again, the defogger will run for several more minutes before turning off. The defogger can also be turned off by turning off the engine. Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear. Notice: Do not use a razor blade or sharp object to clear the inside rear window. Do not adhere anything to the defogger grid lines in the rear glass. These actions may damage the rear defogger. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Outlet Adjustment Use the outlets located near the center and on the sides of the instrument panel to change the direction of airﬂow. Operation Tips • Clear away any ice, snow or leaves from the air inlets at the base of the windshield that may block the ﬂow of air into your vehicle. • Use of non-GM approved hood deﬂectors may adversely affect the performance of the system. • Keep the path under the front seats clear of objects to help circulate the air inside of your vehicle more effectively. 3-20 Rear Heating System For vehicles with a rear heating system, it lets you adjust the amount of air ﬂowing into the rear of the vehicle, from the front-seating area. This feature works with the main climate-control system in the vehicle. 9 (Fan): Turn the thumbwheel up or down to increase or decrease the amount of heated air sent to the rear-seating area. Q (High): This position supplies the most amount of heat to the rear-seating area. c (Medium): This position supplies half the amount of heat to the rear-seating area. R (Low): This position supplies the least amount of heat to the rear-seating area. 9 (Off): Turns the rear heating system off. AUX: The thumbwheel for this system is located in the switchbank below the audio system. 3-21 Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System For vehicles with a rear heating and air-conditioning system, it maintains the temperature, fan speed and air delivery for the rear-seat passengers only. It also works with the main climate-control system in the vehicle. Front Climate Control Panel Use this control panel to maintain a separate temperature setting. Adjust the direction of the airﬂow or adjust the fan speed for the rear seat passenger(s). 3-22 Rear Climate Control Panel A. Fan Control B. Air Delivery Mode Control C. Temperature Control If the vehicle has a 135 inch (343 cm) wheelbase, a rear control panel for this system is located in the second row behind the driver in the rear of the vehicle. The temperature, air delivery mode, and the fan speed can be adjusted for the rear seating area by a rear seat passenger. AUX (Auxiliary): Turn the fan knob on the front climate control panel to AUX to let rear seat passengers use the control panel in the rear seating area. This disables the front control panel. To return control to the front panel, move the fan knob out of AUX. 9 : Turns the system off. 9 (Fan Control): Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the fan speed in the rear-seating area. Temperature Control: Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the temperature in the rear-seating area. The air-conditioning system on the main climate control panel must be turned on to direct cooled air to the rear of the vehicle. If it is not on, then the temperature in the rear of the vehicle remains at cabin temperature. Air Delivery Mode Control: Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to change the direction of the airﬂow in the rear seating area. To change the current mode, select one of the following: H (Vent): Air is directed to the upper outlets, with some directed to the ﬂoor outlets. 2 (Floor): Air is directed to the ﬂoor outlets. Be sure to keep the area under the front seats clear of any objects so that the air inside of the vehicle can circulate effectively. For information on how to use the main climate control system, see Climate Control System on page 3-18. For information on ventilation, see Outlet Adjustment on page 3-20. Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators 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 the warning lights and gages could prevent injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of the vehicle’s functions. Some warning lights come on brieﬂy when the engine is started to indicate they are working. Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of the vehicle’s functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to indicate a problem with the vehicle. When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on while driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that explains what to do. Follow this manual’s advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly and even dangerous. 3-23 Instrument Panel Cluster The instrument panel cluster is designed to display how the vehicle is running. It shows how fast the vehicle is going, how much fuel is being used, and many other things needed to drive safely and economically. If the vehicle has the DURAMAX Diesel engine, see the DURAMAX Diesel manual for more information. United States version shown, Canada similar 3-24 Speedometer and Odometer The speedometer shows the vehicle speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). The odometer shows how far the vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). This vehicle has a tamper resistant odometer. The digital odometer will read 999,999 if it is turned back. If the vehicle needs a new odometer installed, it must be set to the mileage total of the old odometer. If that is not possible, then it must be set at zero and a label must be put on the driver door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed. Trip Odometer The trip odometer can show how far the vehicle has been driven since the trip odometer was last set to zero. Press the Trip/Fuel button on the Driver Information Center (DIC) switch to display the trip odometer and the regular odometer information. See DIC Operation and Displays on page 3-41 for more information on resetting the trip odometer. To display the odometer reading with the ignition off, press the Trip/Fuel button on the Driver Information Center switch. 3-25 Safety Belt Reminders Safety Belt Reminder Light When the engine is started, a chime sounds for several seconds to remind a driver to fasten the safety belt, unless the driver safety belt is already buckled. The safety belt light comes on and stays on for several seconds, then ﬂashes for several more. Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light Several seconds after the engine is started, a chime sounds for several seconds to remind the front passenger to buckle their safety belt. This only occurs if the passenger airbag is enabled. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-68 for more information. The passenger safety belt light, located on the instrument panel, comes on and stays on for several seconds and then ﬂashes for several more. This chime and light are repeated if the passenger remains unbuckled and the vehicle is in motion. This chime and light are repeated if the driver remains unbuckled and the vehicle is in motion. If the driver safety belt is already buckled, neither the chime nor the light comes on. If the passenger safety belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the light comes on. The front passenger safety belt warning light and chime may turn on if an object is put on the seat such as a briefcase, handbag, grocery bag, laptop or other electronic device. To turn off the warning light and or chime, remove the object from the seat or buckle the safety belt. 3-26 Airbag Readiness Light The system checks the airbag’s electrical system for possible malfunctions. If the light stays on it indicates there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the airbag sensor, the pretensioners, the airbag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the airbag system, see Airbag System on page 1-56. The airbag readiness light ﬂashes for a few seconds when the engine is started. If the light does not come on then, have it ﬁxed immediately. { CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started or comes on while driving, it means the airbag system might not be working properly. The airbags in the vehicle might not inﬂate in a crash, or they could even inﬂate without a crash. To help avoid injury, have the vehicle serviced right away. If there is a problem with the airbag system, an airbag Driver Information Center (DIC) message can also come on. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-48 for more information. 3-27 Airbag Off Light When the right front passenger airbag is manually turned off using the airbag on-off switch on the instrument panel, if equipped, the indicator light OFF or the off symbol will come on and stay on as a reminder that the airbag has been turned off. This light will go off when the airbag has been turned on. See Airbag Off Switch on page 1-65 for more information, including important safety information. { CAUTION: If the right front passenger’s airbag is turned off for a person who is not in a risk group identiﬁed by the national government, that person will not have the extra protection of an airbag. In a crash, the airbag will not be able to inﬂate and help protect the person sitting there. Do not turn off the passenger’s airbag unless the person sitting there is in a risk group identiﬁed by the national government. See Airbag Off Switch on page 1-65 for more on this, including important safety information. United States Canada 3-28 { CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. For example, the right front passenger airbag could inﬂate even though the airbag on-off switch is turned off. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-27 for more information, including important safety information. If the word ON or the on symbol is lit, it means that the right front passenger frontal airbag is enabled (may inﬂate). See Airbag Off Switch on page 1-65 for more information, including important safety information. Passenger Airbag Status Indicator If the vehicle has a passenger sensing system, the instrument panel will have a passenger airbag status indicator. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-68 for important safety information. The instrument panel has a passenger airbag status indicator. United States Canada When the vehicle is started, 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 frontal airbag. 3-29 If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the passenger airbag status indicator, it means that the right front passenger frontal airbag is enabled (may inﬂate). 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 frontal airbag. If, after several seconds, both 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/retailer for service. { CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-27 for more information, including important safety information. Charging System Light This light comes on brieﬂy when the ignition key is turned to START, but the engine is not running, as a check to show it is working.

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2009 Chevrolet Express Owners Manual