2011 Chevrolet Express Owners Manual

address book or contact list with the vehicle.

To minimize driver distraction, before driving, and with the vehicle parked: . Become familiar with the

features of the cell phone. Organize the phone book and contact lists clearly and delete duplicate or rarely used entries. If possible, program speed dial or other shortcuts.

. Review the controls and

operation of the infotainment and navigation system.

. Pair cell phone(s) to the vehicle.

The system may not work with all cell phones. See “Pairing” in this section for more information. If the cell phone has voice dialing capability, learn to use that feature to access the address book or contact list. See “Voice Pass-Thru” in this section for more information.

. See “Storing and Deleting Phone

Numbers” in this section for more information.

{ WARNING

When using a cell phone, it can be distracting to look too long or too often at the screen of the phone or the infotainment (navigation) system. Taking your eyes off the road too long or too often could cause a crash resulting in injury or death. Focus your attention on driving.

A Bluetooth system can use a Bluetooth‐capable cell phone with a Hands‐Free Profile to make and receive phone calls. The system can be used while the key is in the ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY position. The range of the Bluetooth system can be up to 9.1 m (30 ft). Not all phones support all functions, and not all phones are guaranteed to work with the in-vehicle Bluetooth system. See www.gm.com/bluetooth for more information on compatible phones. Voice Recognition The Bluetooth system uses voice recognition to interpret voice commands to dial phone numbers and name tags. For additional information, say “Help” while you are in a voice recognition menu. Noise: Keep interior noise levels to a minimum. The system may not recognize voice commands if there is too much background noise.

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When to Speak: A short tone sounds after the system responds indicating when it is waiting for a voice command. Wait until the tone and then speak. How to Speak: Speak clearly in a calm and natural voice. Audio System When using the in‐vehicle Bluetooth system, sound comes through the vehicle's front audio system speakers and overrides the audio system. Use the audio system volume knob, during a call, to change the volume level. The adjusted volume level remains in memory for later calls. To prevent missed calls, a minimum volume level is used if the volume is turned down too low.

Infotainment System 7-25

Pairing Information . Up to five cell phones can be

paired to the Bluetooth system. The pairing process is disabled when the vehicle is moving.

. Pairing only needs to be

completed once, unless the pairing information on the cell phone changes or the cell phone is deleted from the system.

. Only one paired cell phone can be connected to the Bluetooth system at a time. If multiple paired cell phones are within range of the system, the system connects to the first available paired cell phone in the order that they were first paired to the system. To connect to a different paired phone, see “Connecting to a Different Phone” later in this section.

Bluetooth Controls Use the buttons located on the steering wheel to operate the in‐vehicle Bluetooth system. See Steering Wheel Controls on page 5‑2 for more information. b / g (Push To Talk): Press to answer incoming calls, confirm system information, and start speech recognition. c / x (Phone On Hook): Press to end a call, reject a call, or cancel an operation. Pairing A Bluetooth cell phone must be paired to the Bluetooth system and then connected to the vehicle before it can be used. See the cell phone manufacturer's user guide for Bluetooth functions before pairing the cell phone. If a Bluetooth phone is not connected, calls will be made using OnStar Hands‐Free Calling, if equipped. Refer to the OnStar Owner's Guide for more information.

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7-26

Infotainment System

Pairing a Phone 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Bluetooth.” 3. Say “Pair.” The system

responds with instructions and a four‐digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). The PIN is used in Step 5.

4. Start the pairing process on the cell phone that you want to pair. For help with this process, see the cell phone manufacturer's user guide.

5. Locate the device named

“Your Vehicle” in the list on the cell phone. Follow the instructions on the cell phone to enter the PIN that was provided in Step 3. After the PIN is successfully entered, the system prompts you to provide a name for the paired cell phone. This name will be used to indicate which phones are paired and connected to the vehicle. See “Listing All Paired and Connected Phones” later in this section for more information.

6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 to pair

additional phones.

Listing All Paired and Connected Phones The system can list all cell phones paired to it. If a paired cell phone is also connected to the vehicle, the system responds with “is connected” after that phone name. 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Bluetooth.” 3. Say “List.”

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Deleting a Paired Phone If the phone name you want to delete is unknown, see “Listing All Paired and Connected Phones.” 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Bluetooth.” 3. Say “Delete.” The system asks

which phone to delete.

4. Say the name of the phone you

want to delete.

Connecting to a Different Phone To connect to a different cell phone, the Bluetooth system looks for the next available cell phone in the order in which all the available cell phones were paired. Depending on which cell phone you want to connect to, you may have to use this command several times. 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Bluetooth.” 3. Say “Change phone.”

If another cell phone is found, the response will be “ is now connected.” If another cell phone is not found, the original phone remains connected.

Infotainment System 7-27

Storing and Deleting Phone Numbers The system can store up to 30 phone numbers as name tags in the Hands‐Free Directory that is shared between the Bluetooth and OnStar systems, if equipped. The following commands are used to delete and store phone numbers. Store: This command will store a phone number, or a group of numbers as a name tag. Digit Store: This command allows a phone number to be stored as a name tag by entering the digits one at a time. Delete: This command is used to delete individual name tags. Delete All Name Tags: This command deletes all stored name tags in the Hands‐Free Calling Directory and the OnStar Turn‐by‐Turn Destinations Directory, if equipped.

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7-28

Infotainment System

Using the “Store” Command 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds. 2. Say “Store.” 3. Say the phone number or group of numbers you want to store all at once with no pauses, then follow the directions given by the system to save a name tag for this number.

Using the “Digit Store” Command If an unwanted number is recognized by the system, say “Clear” at any time to clear the last number. To hear all of the numbers recognized by the system, say “Verify” at any time. 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Digit Store.”

3. Say each digit, one at a time,

that you want to store. After each digit is entered, the system repeats back the digit it heard followed by a tone. After the last digit has been entered, say “Store,” and then follow the directions given by the system to save a name tag for this number.

To delete all name tags: 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Delete all name tags.” Listing Stored Numbers The list command will list all stored numbers and name tags.

Using the “Delete” Command 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds. 2. Say “Delete.” 3. Say the name tag you want

to delete.

Using the “Delete All Name Tags” Command This command deletes all stored name tags in the Hands‐Free Calling Directory and the OnStar Turn‐by‐Turn Destinations Directory, if equipped.

Using the “List” Command 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Directory.” 3. Say “Hands‐Free Calling.” 4. Say “List.” Making a Call Calls can be made using the following commands. Dial or Call: The dial or call command can be used interchangeably to dial a phone number or a stored name tag.

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Infotainment System 7-29

Using the “Re‐dial” Command 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. After the tone, say “Re‐dial.” Once connected, the person called will be heard through the audio speakers. Receiving a Call When an incoming call is received, the audio system mutes and a ring tone is heard in the vehicle. . Press b / g to answer the call. . Press c / x to ignore a call.

Digit Dial: This command allows a phone number to be dialed by entering the digits one at a time. Re‐dial: This command is used to dial the last number used on the cell phone.

Using the “Dial” or “Call” Command 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Dial” or “Call.” 3. Say the entire number without pausing, or say the name tag.

Once connected, the person called will be heard through the audio speakers.

Using the “Digit Dial” Command The digit dial command allows a phone number to be dialed by entering the digits one at a time. After each digit is entered, the system repeats back the digit it heard followed by a tone.

If an unwanted number is recognized by the system, say “Clear” at any time to clear the last number. To hear all of the numbers recognized by the system, say “Verify” at any time. 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Digit Dial.” 3. Say each digit, one at a time,

that you want to dial. After each digit is entered, the system repeats back the digit it heard followed by a tone. After the last digit has been entered, say “Dial.”

Once connected, the person called will be heard through the audio speakers.

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7-30

Infotainment System

Call Waiting Call waiting must be supported on the cell phone and enabled by the wireless service carrier. . Press b / g to answer an

incoming call when another call is active. The original call is placed on hold.

. Press b / g again to return to

the original call. To ignore the incoming call, no action is required.

. Press c / x to disconnect the current call and switch to the call on hold.

Three‐Way Calling Three‐way calling must be supported on the cell phone and enabled by the wireless service carrier. 1. While on a call, press b / g. 2. Say “Three‐way call.”

3. Use the dial or call command to dial the number of the third party to be called.

4. Once the call is connected, press b / g to link all callers together.

Ending a Call Press c / x to end a call. Muting a Call During a call, all sounds from inside the vehicle can be muted so that the person on the other end of the call cannot hear them.

To mute a call, press b / g, and then say “Mute call.” To cancel mute, press b / g, and then say “Un‐mute call.”

Transferring a Call Audio can be transferred between the Bluetooth system and the cell phone. The cell phone must be paired and connected with the Bluetooth system before a call can be transferred. The connection process can take up to two minutes after the ignition is turned to ON/RUN.

Transferring Audio from the Bluetooth System to a Cell Phone During a call with the audio in the vehicle: 1. Press b / g. 2. Say “Transfer Call.”

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Infotainment System 7-31

Clearing the System Unless information is deleted out of the in‐vehicle Bluetooth system, it will be retained indefinitely. This includes all saved name tags in the phone book and phone pairing information. For information on how to delete this information, see the previous section “Deleting a Paired Phone” and the previous sections on deleting name tags. Other Information The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth® SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by General Motors is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Transferring Audio to the Bluetooth System from a Cell Phone During a call with the audio on the cell phone, press b / g. The audio transfers to the vehicle. If the audio does not transfer to the vehicle, use the audio transfer feature on the cell phone. See your cell phone manufacturer's user guide for more information. Voice Pass-Thru Voice pass‐thru allows access to the voice recognition commands on the cell phone. See your cell phone manufacturer's user guide to see if the cell phone supports this feature. To access contacts stored in the cell phone: 1. Press and hold b / g for

two seconds.

2. Say “Bluetooth.” The system responds “Bluetooth ready,” followed by a tone.

3. Say “Voice.” The system responds “OK, accessing .”

The cell phone's normal prompt messages will go through their cycle according to the phone's operating instructions. Dual Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) Tones The Bluetooth system can send numbers and the numbers stored as name tags during a call. You can use this feature when calling a menu‐driven phone system. Account numbers can also be stored for use.

Sending a Number or Name Tag During a Call 1. Press b / g. The system

responds “Ready,” followed by a tone.

2. Say “Dial.” 3. Say the number or name tag

to send.

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7-32

Infotainment System

2 NOTES

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Climate Controls

Climate Control Systems

Climate Controls

8-1

The heating, cooling, and ventilation for the vehicle can be controlled with this system.

Climate Control Systems

Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1
Rear Heating System . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Rear Climate Control

System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

Air Vents

Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8

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.

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8-2

Climate Controls

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.

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Climate Controls

8-3

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.

Vehicles With Air Conditioning

A. Fan Control B. Temperature Control

C. Air Delivery Mode Control D. Rear Window Defogger

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8-4

Climate Controls

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.

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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.

Climate Controls

8-5

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 instrument panel switchbank below the audio system. 9 (Fan): Turn the thumbwheel up or down to increase or decrease the amount of heated air sent to the rear-seating area.

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8-6

Climate Controls

Rear Climate Control 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

A. Fan Control B. Air Delivery Mode Control C. Temperature Control

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).

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Climate Controls

8-7

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.

Rear Climate Control Panel

A. Fan Control B. Air Delivery Mode Control C. Temperature Control

If the vehicle has a 343 cm (135 in) 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.

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8-8

Climate Controls

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 Systems on page 8‑1. For information on ventilation, see Air Vents on page 8‑8.

Air Vents 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 the 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 the vehicle more effectively.

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Driving and Operating

Driving Information

Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Drunk Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Driving on Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . 9-8
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9
If the Vehicle Is Stuck . . . . . . . . 9-11
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . 9-12

Starting and Operating

New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . 9-16
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . 9-18
Fast Idle System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
Engine Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
Retained Accessory

Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21

Shifting Into Park . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Shifting out of Park . . . . . . . . . . 9-23
Parking over Things

That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23

Engine Exhaust

Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-24
Running the Vehicle While

Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-24

Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission

(Six Speed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25

Automatic Transmission

(Four Speed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-30
Tow/Haul Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31

Drive Systems

All-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-32

Brakes

Antilock Brake

System (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-34

Ride Control Systems

StabiliTrak® System . . . . . . . . . 9-34
Locking Rear Axle . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36

Driving and Operating

9-1

Cruise Control

Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37

Fuel

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39
Recommended Fuel . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Gasoline Specifications

(U.S. and Canada Only) . . . . 9-40

California Fuel

Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Fuels in Foreign Countries . . . 9-40
Fuel Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) . . . . . 9-42
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
Filling a Portable Fuel

Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-44

Towing

General Towing

Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-45

Driving Characteristics and

Towing Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-45
Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-48
Towing Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . 9-53

Conversions and Add-Ons

Add-On Electrical

Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56

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9-2

Driving and Operating

Driving Information

Defensive Driving Defensive driving means “always expect the unexpected.” The first step in driving defensively is to wear the safety belt. See Safety Belts on page 3‑8.

{ WARNING

Assume that other road users (pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers) are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do and be ready. In addition:

. Allow enough following

distance between you and the driver in front of you.

. Focus on the task of driving.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

Driver distraction can cause collisions resulting in injury or possible death. These simple defensive driving techniques could save your life.

Drunk Driving

{ WARNING 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. 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.

Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a global tragedy. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: judgment, muscular coordination, vision, and attentiveness. Police records show that almost 40 percent 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 17,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with about 250,000 people injured. For persons under 21, it is against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological, and 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.

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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.

Control of a Vehicle The following three systems help to control the vehicle while driving — brakes, steering, and accelerator. At times, as when driving on snow or ice, it is easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. Meaning, you can lose control of the vehicle. Adding non‐dealer accessories can affect vehicle performance. See Accessories and Modifications on page 10‑3.

Braking See Brake System Warning Light on page 5‑24. Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Deciding to push the brake pedal is perception time. Actually doing it 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 100 km/h (60 mph) travels 20 m (66 ft). That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so keeping enough space between the vehicle and others is important.

Driving and Operating

9-3

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 the brakes; the weight of the vehicle; and the amount of brake force applied. Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts — heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking — rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. The brakes might not have time to cool between hard stops. The brakes will wear out much faster with a lot of heavy braking. Keeping pace with the traffic and allowing realistic following distances eliminates a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.

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9-4

Driving and Operating

If the engine ever stops while the vehicle is being driven, brake normally but do not pump the brakes. If the brakes are pumped, the pedal could get harder to push down. If the engine stops, there will still be some power brake assist but it will be used when the brake is applied. Once the power assist is used up, it can take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push. Adding non‐dealer accessories can affect vehicle performance. See Accessories and Modifications on page 10‑3.

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. These problems can be avoided by braking — if you can stop in time. But sometimes you cannot stop in time because there is no room. That is the time for evasive action — steering around the problem. The vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply the brakes. See Braking on page 9‑3. It is better to remove as much speed as possible from a

Steering

Power Steering If power steering assist is lost because the engine stops or the power steering system is not functioning, the vehicle can be steered but it will take more effort. Steering Tips It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed. Traction in a curve depends on the condition of the tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and vehicle speed. While in a curve, speed is the one factor that can be controlled. If there is a need to reduce speed, do it before entering the curve, while the front wheels are straight. Try to adjust the speed so you can drive through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.

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collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available.

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.

Off-Road Recovery The vehicle's right wheels can drop off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while driving.

An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o'clock positions, it can be turned 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.

If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy.

Driving and Operating

9-5

Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that the vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement. Turn the steering wheel 8 to 13 cm (3 to 5 in), about one-eighth turn, until the right front tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn the steering wheel to go straight down the roadway.

Loss of Control 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. In any emergency, do not give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.

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9-6

Driving and Operating

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. The three types of skids correspond to the vehicle's three control systems. In the braking skid, the 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. If the 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, the vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs.

Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel, or other material is on the road. For safety, slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance is longer and vehicle control more limited. While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or braking, including reducing vehicle speed by shifting to a lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You might not realize the surface is slippery until the 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. Remember: Antilock brakes help avoid only the braking skid.

Driving on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can reduce vehicle traction and affect your ability to stop and accelerate. Always drive slower in these types of driving conditions and avoid driving through large puddles and deep‐standing or flowing water.

{ WARNING

Wet brakes can cause crashes. They might not work as well in a quick stop and could cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car/vehicle wash, lightly apply the brake pedal until the brakes work normally. Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. Driving through flowing water could cause the vehicle to be carried away.

(Continued)

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Driving and Operating

9-7

Other Rainy Weather Tips Besides slowing down, other wet weather driving tips include: . Allow extra following distance. . Pass with caution. . Keep windshield wiping

equipment in good shape.

. Keep the windshield washer fluid

reservoir filled.

. Have good tires with proper

tread depth. See Tires on page 10‑52. Turn off cruise control.

Highway Hypnosis Always be alert and pay attention to your surroundings while driving. If you become tired or sleepy, find a safe place to park the vehicle and rest. Other driving tips include: . Keep the vehicle well ventilated. . Keep interior temperature cool. . Keep your eyes moving — scan the road ahead and to the sides.

. Check the rearview mirror and

vehicle instruments often.

WARNING (Continued)

If this happens, you and other vehicle occupants could drown. Do not ignore police warnings and be very cautious about trying to drive through flowing water.

Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. Water can build up under the vehicle's tires so they actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you are going fast enough. When the vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. There is no hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down when the road is wet.

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9-8

Driving and Operating

Hill and Mountain Roads Driving on steep hills or through mountains is different than driving on flat or rolling terrain. Tips for driving in these conditions include: . Keep the vehicle serviced and in

good shape.

. Check all fluid levels and brakes,

tires, cooling system, and transmission.

. Shift to a lower gear when going

down steep or long hills.

{ WARNING

If you do not shift down, the 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 the engine assist the brakes on a steep downhill slope.

{ WARNING

Coasting downhill in N (Neutral) or with the ignition off is dangerous. The brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down and they could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

You could crash. Always have the engine running and the vehicle in gear when going downhill.

. Stay in your own lane.

Do not swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane. Top of hills: Be alert — something could be in your lane (stalled car, accident).

. Pay attention to special road

signs (falling rocks area, winding roads, long grades, passing or no-passing zones) and take appropriate action.

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Winter Driving

Driving on Snow or Ice Drive carefully when there is snow or ice between the tires and the road, creating less traction or grip. Wet ice can occur at about 0°C (32°F) when freezing rain begins to fall, resulting in even less traction. Avoid driving on wet ice or in freezing rain until roads can be treated with salt or sand. Drive with caution, whatever the condition. Accelerate gently so traction is not lost. Accelerating too quickly causes the wheels to spin and makes the surface under the tires slick, so there is even less traction.

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. The Antilock Brake System (ABS) on page 9‑33 improves vehicle stability during hard stops on a slippery roads, but apply the brakes sooner than when on dry pavement. Allow greater following distance on any slippery road and watch for slippery spots. Icy patches can occur on otherwise clear roads in shaded areas. The surface of a curve or an overpass can remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. Avoid sudden steering maneuvers and braking while on ice. Turn off cruise control, if equipped, on slippery surfaces.

Driving and Operating

9-9

Blizzard Conditions Being stuck in snow can be a serious situation. Stay with the vehicle unless there is help nearby. If possible, use the Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8 or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) on page 13‑10. To get help and keep everyone in the vehicle safe:

Turn on the hazard warning flashers. Tie a red cloth to an outside mirror.

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9-10

Driving and Operating

{ WARNING

Snow can trap engine exhaust under the vehicle. This may cause exhaust gases to get inside. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If the vehicle is stuck in the snow: . Clear away snow from around

the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking the exhaust pipe and/or the fuel operated heater exhaust system, if equipped. If the vehicle has a diesel engine and a fuel operated heater, see “Fuel Operated Heater (FOH)” in the diesel engine supplement.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

. Check again from time to

time to be sure snow does not collect there.

. Open a window about

5 cm (2 in) on the side of the vehicle that is away from the wind to bring in fresh air.

. Fully open the air outlets on

or under the instrument panel.

. Adjust the Climate Control

system to a setting that circulates the air inside the vehicle and set the fan speed to the highest setting. See Climate Control System in the Index.

For more information about carbon monoxide, see Engine Exhaust on page 9‑24.

(Continued)

Snow can trap exhaust gases under the 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 the vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of the vehicle, especially any that is blocking the exhaust.

Run the engine for short periods only as needed to keep warm, but be careful. To save fuel, run the engine for only short periods as needed to warm the vehicle and then shut the engine off and close the window most of the way to save heat. Repeat this until help arrives but only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. Moving about to keep warm also helps.

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{ WARNING

If the vehicle's tires spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. The vehicle can overheat, causing an engine compartment fire or other damage. Spin the wheels as little as possible and avoid going above 55 km/h (35 mph).

For information about using tire chains on the vehicle, see Tire Chains on page 10‑75.

If it takes some time for help to arrive, now and then when you run the engine, push the accelerator pedal slightly so the engine runs faster than the idle speed. This keeps the battery charged to restart the vehicle and to signal for help with the headlamps. Do this as little as possible to save fuel.

If the Vehicle Is Stuck Slowly and cautiously spin the wheels to free the vehicle when stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow. If the vehicle has a traction system, it can often help to free a stuck vehicle. Refer to the vehicle's traction system in the Index. If stuck too severely for the traction system to free the vehicle, turn the traction system off and use the rocking method.

Driving and Operating

9-11

Rocking the Vehicle to Get it Out Turn the steering wheel left and right to clear the area around the front wheels. Turn off any traction or stability system. Shift back and forth between R (Reverse) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. To prevent transmission wear, wait until the wheels stop spinning before shifting gears. Release the accelerator pedal while shifting, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is in gear. Slowly spinning the wheels in the forward and reverse directions causes a rocking motion that could free the vehicle. If that does not get the vehicle out after a few tries, it might need to be towed out. If the vehicle does need to be towed out, see Towing the Vehicle on page 10‑93.

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9-12

Driving and Operating

Vehicle Load Limits It is very important to know how much weight the 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 the vehicle show how much weight it was designed to carry, the Tire and Loading Information label and the Certification/Tire label.

{ WARNING

Do not load the vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). This can cause systems to break and change the way the (Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

vehicle handles. This could cause loss of control and a crash. Overloading can also shorten the life of the vehicle.

Tire and Loading Information Label

Label Example

A vehicle specific Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the center pillar

(B-pillar). With the driver 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. The Tire and Loading Information label also shows the size of the original equipment tires (C) and the recommended cold tire inflation pressures (D). For more information on tires and inflation see Tires on page 10‑52 and Tire Pressure on page 10‑60. 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

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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 lbs” on your vehicle's placard.

2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

4. The resulting figure equals

the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and

Driving and Operating

9-13

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

6.

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. 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 Trailer Towing on page 9‑48 for important information on towing a trailer, towing safety rules and trailering tips.

Example 1

A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for

Example 1 = 453 kg (1,000 lbs)

B. Subtract Occupant Weight @

68 kg (150 lbs) × 2 = 136 kg (300 lbs)

C. Available Occupant and Cargo

Weight = 317 kg (700 lbs)

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9-14

Driving and Operating

Refer to the vehicle tire and loading information label for specific information about the vehicle's capacity weight and seating positions. The combined weight of the driver, passengers, and cargo should never exceed the vehicle capacity weight.

Example 2

Example 3

A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for

A. Maximum Vehicle Capacity

Example 2 = 453 kg (1,000 lbs)

Weight for Example 3 = 453 kg (1,000 lbs)

B. Subtract Occupant Weight @

B. Subtract Occupant Weight @

68 kg (150 lbs) × 5 = 136 kg (750 lbs)

91 kg (200 lbs) × 5 = 453 kg (1,000 lbs)

C. Available Cargo Weight =

C. Available Cargo Weight =

113 kg (250 lbs)

0 kg (0 lbs)

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Certification/Tire Label

A vehicle specific Certification/ Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver door. The label shows the size of the vehicle's original tires and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of the vehicle. This is called

Driving and Operating

9-15

{ WARNING

Do not load the vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). This can cause systems to break and change the way the vehicle handles. This could cause loss of control and a crash. Overloading can also shorten the life of the vehicle.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and cargo. The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads on the front and rear axles, you need to go to a weigh station and weigh the vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. Be sure to spread out the load equally on both sides of the centerline. Never exceed the GVWR for the vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle. If there is a heavy load, it should be spread out.

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9-16

Driving and Operating

{ WARNING

Things you put inside the vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash.

. Put things in the cargo

area of the 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 the vehicle.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

. When you carry something

inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can.

. Do not leave a seat folded down unless you need to.

Add-On Equipment When you carry removable items, you may need to put a limit on how many people you carry inside the vehicle. Be sure to weigh the vehicle before you buy and install the new equipment.

Starting and Operating

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: . Keep the vehicle speed at

88 km/h (55 mph) or less for the first 805 km (500 miles).

. Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or slow, for the first 805 km (500 miles). Do not make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to brake or slow the vehicle.

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. Avoid making hard stops for the first 322 km (200 miles) 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.

. Do not tow a trailer during

break-in. See Trailer Towing on page 9‑48 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 or ACC/ACCESSORY and the regular brake pedal applied. A (STOPPING THE ENGINE/ LOCK/OFF): When the vehicle is stopped, turn the ignition switch to LOCK/OFF to turn the engine off.

Driving and Operating

9-17

Retained Accessory Power (RAP) will remain active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑21. This position locks the ignition and transmission. Do not turn the engine off when the vehicle is moving. This will cause a loss of power assist in the brake and steering systems and disable the airbags. In an emergency, if the vehicle must be shut off while driving: 1. Brake using a firm and steady

pressure. Do not pump the brakes repeatedly. This may deplete power assist, requiring increased brake pedal force.

2. Shift the vehicle to N (Neutral).

This can be done while the vehicle is moving. After shifting to N (Neutral), firmly apply the brakes and steer the vehicle to a safe location.

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9-18

Driving and Operating

3. Come to a complete stop, shift to P (Park), and turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. On vehicles with an automatic transmission, the shift lever must be in P (Park) to turn the ignition switch to the LOCK/OFF position.

4. Set the parking brake. See

Parking Brake on page 9‑34.

{ WARNING

Turning off the vehicle while moving may cause loss of power assist in the brake and steering systems and disable the airbags. While driving, only shut the vehicle off in an emergency.

5.

If the vehicle must be shut off while driving, turn the ignition to ACC/ACCESSORY.

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. 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.

Starting the Engine If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement 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.

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.

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Driving and Operating

9-19

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.

When the Low Fuel warning lamp is on and the FUEL LEVEL LOW message is displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC), the Computer‐Controlled Cranking System is disabled to prevent possible vehicle component damage. When this happens, hold the ignition switch in the START position to continue engine cranking.

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 −18°C or 0°F), 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. If you do not, the engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

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9-20

Driving and Operating

Fast Idle System 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 System, press and release the Cruise Control On/Off button and ensure that the switch LED is lit.

. Press and release the Cruise

Control Set switch. Engine speed will be held at approximately 1200 RPM.

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.