2012 Chevrolet Express Owners Manual

Equipment needed for a 15‐passenger seating arrangement is secured on the rear floor on the passenger side of the vehicle.

Remove the retaining wing bolt and lift it out of the mounting bracket to access the equipment.

The tools you will be using include: A. Jack B. Jack Handle C. Hoist Extension D. Jack Handle Extension E. Wheel Wrench The spare tire is mounted in the rear underbody of the vehicle. Use the hoist extension, jack handle extensions, and the wheel wrench to remove the underbody‐mounted spare tire.

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Vehicle Care

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3. Turn the wheel wrench

counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground. Continue to turn the wheel wrench until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle. If the spare tire does not lower to the ground, the secondary latch is engaged causing the tire not to lower. See Secondary Latch System on page 10‑83.

1. Assemble the wheel wrench (G) to one or two of the jack handles and the hoist extensions (F). Insert the hoist extension end through the hole in the rear bumper.

2. Be sure the hoist extension end connects to the hoist shaft. The chiseled end of the extension is used to lower the spare tire.

To lower the spare tire from the vehicle:

A. Spare Tire B. Tire/Wheel Retainer C. Hoist Cable D. Hoist Assembly E. Hoist Shaft F.

Jack Handle and Hoist Extensions

G. Wheel Wrench

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Vehicle Care

Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire If the vehicle has plastic wheel nut caps, loosen them by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. The wheel nut caps are designed to remain with the center cap. Remove the center cap. If the wheel has a smooth center piece, place the chisel end of the wheel wrench in the slot on the wheel and gently pry it out. 1. Do a safety check before

proceeding. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑72 for more information.

2. Loosen all the wheel nuts with

the wheel wrench. Do not remove them yet.

A. Jack B. Jack Handle C. Hoist Extension D. Jack Handle Extension E. Wheel Wrench

4. When the tire has been lowered,

pull it closer to reach the tire retainer and pull it up through the wheel opening. For a vehicle that was completed from a cab and chassis, refer to the information from the body supplier/installer. The spare tire is a full‐size tire, like the other tires on the vehicle.

5. Put the spare tire near the

flat tire.

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Vehicle Care

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3. Assemble the jack and tools:

Front Flat: Assemble the jack (A) together with the jack handle (B), one or two jack handle extensions (D), and the wheel wrench (E). Rear Flat: Assemble the jack (A) together with the jack handle (B), two jack handle extensions (D), and the wheel wrench (E).

Front Position

Rear Position

Front Position

Rear Alternative Position (Diesel

Vehicles)

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Vehicle Care

4. Position the jack under the

vehicle, as shown. The front position jacking point is on the frame. The rear position jacking point is on the rear axle. If the exhaust system interferes in the jack location in the rear axle, such as in Diesel vehicles, place the jack (A) on the rear axle between the axle housing and the shock absorber bracket in order to avoid any interference with the exhaust pipe (B).

{ WARNING

Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.

{ WARNING

Raising the vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.

5. Turn the wheel wrench

clockwise to raise the vehicle. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

6. Remove all the wheel nuts. 7. Take flat tire off of the mounting

surface.

{ WARNING

Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the (Continued)

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WARNING (Continued)

wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, a cloth or a paper towel can be used; however, use a scraper or wire brush later to remove all rust or dirt.

{ WARNING

Never use oil or grease on bolts or nuts because the nuts might come loose. The vehicle's wheel could fall off, causing a crash.

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10. Turn the jack handle

counterclockwise to lower the vehicle. Lower the jack completely.

{ WARNING

Wheel nuts that are not tight can work loose. If all the nuts on a wheel come off, the wheel can come off the vehicle, causing a crash. All wheel nuts must be properly tightened. Follow the rules in this section to be sure they are.

8. Remove any rust or dirt from the

wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel.

9. Put the wheel nuts back on with

the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each wheel nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

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Vehicle Care

{ WARNING

If wheel studs are damaged, they can break. If all the studs on a wheel broke, the wheel could come off and cause a crash. If any stud is damaged because of a loose-running wheel, it could be that all of the studs are damaged. To be sure, replace all studs on the wheel. If the stud holes in a wheel have become larger, the wheel could collapse in operation. Replace any wheel if its stud holes have become larger or distorted in any way.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

Inspect hubs and hub‐piloted wheels for damage. Because of loose running wheels, piloting pad damage may occur and require replacement of the entire hub, for proper centering of the wheels. When replacing studs, hubs, wheel nuts or wheels, be sure to use GM original equipment parts.

{ WARNING

Wheel nuts that are improperly or incorrectly tightened can cause the wheels to become loose or come off. The wheel nuts should be tightened with a torque wrench to the proper torque specification after replacing. Follow the torque specification supplied by the aftermarket manufacturer when using accessory locking wheel nuts. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2 for original equipment wheel nut torque specifications.

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Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2 for the wheel nut torque specification.

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12. Put the wheel cover or the

center cap and plastic wheel nut caps back on. Remove any wheel blocks. Have a technician check the wheel nut tightness of all wheels with a torque wrench after the first 160 km (100 mi) and then 1600 km (1,000 mi) after that. Repeat this service whenever a tire is removed or serviced. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2 for more information.

11. Use the wheel wrench to

tighten the nuts firmly. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise and in a crisscross sequence, as shown.

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10-82

Vehicle Care

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools

{ WARNING

Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

1. Put the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem pointed down.

and the cable is tight. The spare tire hoist cannot be overtightened.

2. Pull the retaining bar through the center of the wheel, making sure it is properly attached.

3. Pull the wheel toward the rear of

the vehicle, keeping the cable tight.

4. Put the chisel end of the hoist extension on an angle through the hole in the rear door frame, above the bumper.

5. Raise the tire fully against the

underside of the vehicle. Continue turning the wheel wrench until the tire is secure

6. Make sure the tire is stored

securely. Push, pull (A), and then try to turn (B) the tire. If the tire moves, use the wheel wrench to tighten the cable. Two clicks mean the the tire is up all the way.

7. Return the jacking equipment to the proper location. Secure the items and replace the jack cover.

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Vehicle Care

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To release the spare tire from the secondary latch:

{ WARNING

Someone standing too close during the procedure could be injured by the jack. If the spare tire does not slide off the jack completely, make sure no one is behind you or on either side of you as you pull the jack out from under the spare.

1. Check under the vehicle to see if

the cable end is visible.

Secondary Latch System This vehicle has an underbody-mounted tire hoist assembly equipped with a secondary latch system. It is designed to stop the spare tire from suddenly falling off the vehicle if the cable holding the spare tire is damaged. For the secondary latch to work, the tire must be stowed with the valve stem pointing down. See “Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools” under Tire Changing on page 10‑74 for instructions on storing the spare tire correctly.

{ WARNING

Before beginning this procedure read all the instructions. Failure to read and follow the instructions could damage the hoist assembly and you and others could get hurt. Read and follow the instructions listed next.

If the cable is not visible, start this procedure at Step 6. 2. Turn the hoist extension

counterclockwise until approximately 15 cm (6 in) of cable is exposed.

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Vehicle Care

3. Attach the jack handle/jack handle extension and wheel wrench to the jack.

6. Lower the jack by turning the

wheel wrench counterclockwise. Keep lowering the jack until the spare tire slides off the jack or is hanging by the cable.

7. Disconnect the jack handle from

the jack and carefully remove the jack. Use one hand to push against the spare while firmly pulling the jack out from under the spare tire with the other hand. If the spare tire is hanging from the cable, assembly the wheel wrench onto the hoist extension and insert the chisel end of the hoist extension into the hoist shaft hole above the bumper. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare the rest of the way.

8. Tilt the retainer at the end of the

cable and pull it through the wheel opening. Pull the tire out from under the vehicle.

4. Place the jack under the vehicle,

ahead of the rear bumper. Position the center lift point of the jack under the center of the spare tire and turn the handle clockwise to raise the jack until it lifts the secondary latch spring.

5. Keep raising the jack until the

spare tire stops moving upward and is held firmly in place. This lets you know that the secondary latch has released. The spare tire is now balancing on the jack.

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Full-Size Spare Tire This vehicle, when new, may have had a fully-inflated spare tire. A spare tire may lose air over time, so check its inflation pressure regularly. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑56 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑11 for information regarding proper tire inflation and loading the vehicle. For instruction on how to remove, install or store a spare tire, see “Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire” and “Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools” under Tire Changing on page 10‑74.

Vehicle Care

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After installing the spare tire on the vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure the spare is correctly inflated. The spare tire is made to perform well at speeds up to 112 km/h (70 mph) at the recommended inflation pressure, so you can finish your trip. Have the damaged or flat road tire repaired or replaced as soon as you can and installed back onto the vehicle. This way, a spare tire will be available in case you need it again. Do not mix tires and wheels of different sizes, because they will not fit. Keep the spare tire and its wheel together.

Notice: If you drive away before the spare tire or secondary latch system cable has been reinstalled, you could damage the vehicle. Always reinstall this cable before driving the vehicle. 9.

If the cable is hanging under the vehicle, turn the wheel wrench in the hoist shaft hole in the bumper clockwise to raise the cable back up.

Have the hoist assembly inspected as soon as you can. You will not be able to store a spare or flat tire using the hoist assembly until it has been repaired or replaced. To continue changing the flat tire, return to Step 4 of “Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools” under Tire Changing on page 10‑74.

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10-86

Vehicle Care

Jump Starting For more information about the vehicle battery, see Battery on page 10‑28. If the vehicle battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely.

{ WARNING

Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because:

. They contain acid that can

burn you.

. They contain gas that can

explode or ignite.

. They contain enough electricity to burn you.

If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to the vehicle that would not be covered by the warranty. Trying to start the vehicle by pushing or pulling it will not work, and it could damage the vehicle. 1. Check the other vehicle. It must

have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system.

Notice: Only use a vehicle that has a 12-volt system with a negative ground for jump starting. If the other vehicle does not have a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. 2. Get the vehicles close enough

so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you do not want. You would not be able to start your

vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in N (Neutral) before setting the parking brake.

Notice: If any accessories are left on or plugged in during the jump starting procedure, they could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Whenever possible, turn off or unplug all accessories on either vehicle when jump starting the vehicle. 3. Turn off the ignition on both

vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or the accessory power outlet. Turn off the radio and all lamps that are not

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needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save the radio!

4. Open the hoods and locate the

positive (+) and negative (−) terminal locations of the other vehicle. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal.

{ WARNING

Using an open flame near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You do not need to add water to the battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you do not, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.

{ WARNING

Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running.

5. Check that the jumper cables do

not have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too.

Vehicle Care

10-87

Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative (−) will go to an unpainted metal part or to a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal. Do not connect positive (+) to negative (−) or you will get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts too. And do not connect the negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal on the dead battery because this can cause sparks.

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Vehicle Care

7. Now connect the black

negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (−) cable does not go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (−) terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal.

8. Connect the other end of the

negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal location on the vehicle with the dead battery. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal.

6. Connect the red positive (+)

cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

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Vehicle Care

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To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: 1. Disconnect the black

negative (−) cable from the vehicle that had the dead battery.

2. Disconnect the black

negative (−) cable from the vehicle with the good battery.

3. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the vehicle with the good battery.

4. Disconnect the red positive (+)

cable from the other vehicle.

5. Return the remote positive (+)

terminal cover to its original position.

Notice: Your vehicle uses the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal. Move the antenna coax cable out of the way before clamping the negative jumper cable to the fixed antenna bracket. Avoid touching the negative cable clamp to the air conditioning line. Failure to do either of these could damage your vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by the warranty. 9. Now start the vehicle with the

good battery and run the engine for a while.

10. Try to start the vehicle that had

the dead battery. If it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the correct order, making sure that the cables do not touch each other or other metal.

Jumper Cable Removal

A. Unpainted Metal Part or

Remote Negative (−) Terminal

B. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) and Remote Negative (−) Terminals

C. Dead Battery or Remote

Positive (+) Terminal

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Vehicle Care

Towing

Towing the Vehicle Notice: To avoid damage, the disabled vehicle should be towed with all four wheels off the ground. Care must be taken with vehicles that have low ground clearance and/or special equipment. Always flatbed on a car carrier. Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if the disabled vehicle must be towed. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8 or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) on page 13‑10. To tow the vehicle behind another vehicle for recreational purposes, such as behind a motor home, see “Recreational Vehicle Towing” in this section.

Recreational Vehicle Towing Recreational vehicle towing means towing the vehicle behind another vehicle – such as behind a motor home. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as dinghy towing and dolly towing. Dinghy towing is towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Dolly towing is towing the vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a dolly. Here are some important things to consider before recreational vehicle towing: . What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure to read the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

. What is the distance that will be travelled? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow. Is the proper towing equipment going to be used? See your dealer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations. Is the vehicle ready to be towed? Just as preparing the vehicle for a long trip, make sure the vehicle is prepared to be towed.

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Dinghy Towing

Two-Wheel‐Drive Vehicles

Notice: If the vehicle is towed with all four wheels on the ground, the drivetrain components could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not tow the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive vehicles should not be towed with all four wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive transmissions have no provisions for internal lubrication while being towed.

Vehicle Care

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All‐Wheel‐Drive Vehicles The vehicle was not designed to be towed with all four wheels on the ground. To properly tow these vehicles, they should be placed on a platform trailer with all four wheels off the ground. Notice: Towing an all-wheel-drive vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, or even with only two of its wheels on the ground, will damage drivetrain components. Do not tow an all-wheel-drive vehicle with any of its wheels on the ground.

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Vehicle Care

Dolly Towing

Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground) – Two‐Wheel‐Drive Vehicles

Use the following procedure to tow the vehicle from the rear: 1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly manufacturer's instructions. 2. Drive the rear wheels onto

the dolly.

3. Firmly set the parking brake.

See Parking Brake on page 9‑34
for more information.

4. Put the transmission in P (Park). 5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly

following the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Use an adequate clamping

device designed for towing to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position. 7. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

If the tow vehicle will not be started or driven for six weeks or more, remove the battery cable from the negative terminal (post) of the battery to prevent the battery from draining while towing.

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Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground) – All‐Wheel‐Drive Vehicles

The vehicle was not designed to be towed with two wheels on the ground. To properly tow these vehicles, they should be placed on a platform trailer with all four wheels off the ground. Notice: Towing an all-wheel-drive vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, or even with only two of its wheels on the ground, will damage drivetrain components. Do not tow an all-wheel-drive vehicle with any of its wheels on the ground.

Vehicle Care

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Appearance Care

Exterior Care

Washing the Vehicle To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash it often and out of direct sunlight. Notice: Do not use petroleum based, acidic, or abrasive cleaning agents as they can damage the vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic parts. If damage occurs, it would not be covered by the vehicle's warranty. Approved cleaning products can be obtained from your dealer. Follow all manufacturer directions regarding correct product usage, necessary safety precautions, and appropriate disposal of any vehicle care product.

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Vehicle Care

Notice: Avoid using high pressure washes closer than 30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the vehicle. Use of power washers exceeding 8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result in damage or removal of paint and decals. Rinse the vehicle well, before washing and after, to remove all cleaning agents completely. If they are allowed to dry on the surface, they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting.

Finish Care Application of aftermarket clearcoat sealant/wax materials is not recommended. If painted surfaces are damaged, see your dealer to have the damage assessed and repaired. Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage the vehicle's finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Occasional hand waxing or mild polishing should be done to remove residue from the paint finish. See your dealer for approved cleaning products. Notice: Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may damage it.

Use only non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish on the vehicle. To keep the paint finish looking new, keep the vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible.

Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts Regularly clean bright metal parts with water or chrome polish on chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary. For aluminum, never use auto or chrome polish, steam, or caustic soap to clean. A coating of wax, rubbed to high polish, is recommended for all bright metal parts. Cleaning Exterior Lamps/ Lenses and Emblems Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth, and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under "Washing the Vehicle" later in this section.

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Windshield and Wiper Blades Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner. Clean rubber blades using lint-free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. Wash the windshield thoroughly when cleaning the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause wiper streaking. Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or damaged. Damage can be caused by extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun, snow and ice. Weatherstrips Apply silicone grease on weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑12.

Tires Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean the tires. Notice: Using petroleum-based tire dressing products on the vehicle may damage the paint finish and/or tires. When applying a tire dressing, always wipe off any overspray from all painted surfaces on the vehicle. Wheels and Trim — Aluminum or Chrome Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and water to clean the wheels. After rinsing thoroughly with clean water, dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax may then be applied. Keep the wheels clean using a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax may then be applied.

Vehicle Care

10-95

Notice: Chrome wheels and other chrome trim may be damaged if the vehicle is not washed after driving on roads that have been sprayed with magnesium, calcium, or sodium chloride. These chlorides are used on roads for conditions such as ice and dust. Always wash the chrome with soap and water after exposure. Notice: To avoid surface damage, do not use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes, or cleaners that contain acid on aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. Use only approved cleaners. Also, never drive a vehicle with aluminum or chrome-plated wheels through an automatic car wash that uses silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes. Damage could occur and the repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

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10-96

Vehicle Care

Steering, Suspension, and Chassis Components Visually inspect front and rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose, or missing parts or signs of wear. Inspect power steering lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Visually check constant velocity joints, rubber boots, and axle seals for leaks. Body Component Lubrication Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and steel fuel door hinge unless the components are plastic. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.

Underbody Maintenance Use plain water to flush dirt and debris from the vehicle's underbody. Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can do this. If not removed, rust and corrosion can develop. Sheet Metal Damage If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide the corrosion protection while maintaining the vehicle warranty.

Finish Damage Quickly repair minor chips and scratches with touch-up materials available from your dealer to avoid corrosion. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your dealer's body and paint shop. Chemical Paint Spotting Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted vehicle surfaces causing blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface.

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Interior Care To prevent dirt particle abrasions, regularly clean the vehicle's interior. Immediately remove any soils. Note that newspapers or dark garments that can transfer color to home furnishings can also permanently transfer color to the vehicle's interior. Use a soft bristle brush to remove dust from knobs and crevices on the instrument cluster. Using a mild soap solution, immediately remove hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect repellant from all interior surfaces or permanent damage may result. Your dealer may have products for cleaning the interior. Use cleaners specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned to prevent permanent damage. To prevent overspray, apply all cleaners directly to the cleaning cloth. Cleaners should be removed quickly. Never allow cleaners to remain on the surface being cleaned for extended periods of time.

Cleaners may contain solvents that can become concentrated in the interior. Before using cleaners, read and adhere to all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning the interior, maintain adequate ventilation by opening the doors and windows. To prevent damage, do not clean the interior using the following cleaners or techniques: . Never use a razor or any other

sharp object to remove a soil from any interior surface.

. Never use a brush with stiff

bristles.

. Never rub any surface

aggressively or with excessive pressure.

. Do not use laundry detergents or

dishwashing soaps with degreasers. For liquid cleaners, use approximately 20 drops per 3.78L (1 gal) of water.

Vehicle Care

10-97

A concentrated soap solution will leave a residue that creates streaks and attracts dirt. Do not use solutions that contain strong or caustic soap.

. Do not heavily saturate the upholstery when cleaning.

. Do not use solvents or cleaners

containing solvents.

Interior Glass To clean, use a terry cloth fabric dampened with water. Wipe droplets left behind with a clean dry cloth. Commercial glass cleaners may be used, if necessary, after cleaning the interior glass with plain water. Notice: To prevent scratching, never use abrasive cleaners on automotive glass. Abrasive cleaners or aggressive cleaning may damage the rear window defogger.

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Vehicle Care

Fabric/Carpet Start by vacuuming the surface using a soft brush attachment. If a rotating brush attachment is being used during vacuuming, only use it on the floor carpet. Before cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as possible using one of the following techniques: . Gently blot liquids with a paper towel. Continue blotting until no more soil can be removed. For solid soils, remove as much as possible prior to vacuuming.

To clean: 1. Saturate a clean lint-free

colorfast cloth with water or club soda. Microfiber cloth is recommended to prevent lint transfer to the fabric or carpet.

2. Remove excess moisture by

gently wringing until water does not drip from the cleaning cloth.

3. Start on the outside edge of the

soil and gently rub toward the center. Rotate the cleaning cloth to a clean area frequently to prevent forcing the soil in to the fabric.

4. Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no longer any color transfer from the soil to the cleaning cloth. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution followed only by club soda or plain water.

5.

If the soil is not completely removed, it may be necessary to use a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small hidden area for colorfastness before using a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter. If ring formation occurs, clean the entire fabric or carpet. Following the cleaning process, a paper towel can be used to blot excess moisture.

Instrument Panel, Leather, Vinyl, & Other Plastic Surfaces Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with water to remove dust and loose dirt. For a more thorough cleaning, use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with a mild soap solution. Notice: Soaking or saturating leather, especially perforated leather, as well as other interior surfaces, may cause permanent damage. Wipe excess moisture from these surfaces after cleaning and allow them to dry naturally. Never use heat, steam, spot lifters or spot removers. Do not use cleaners that contain silicone or wax-based products. Cleaners containing these solvents can permanently change the appearance and feel of leather or soft trim and are not recommended.

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Do not use cleaners that increase gloss, especially on the instrument panel. Reflected glare can decrease visibility through the windshield under certain conditions. Notice: Use of air fresheners may cause permanent damage to plastics and painted surfaces. If an air freshener comes in contact with any plastic or painted surface in the vehicle, blot immediately and clean with a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution. Damage caused by air fresheners would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Vehicle Care

10-99

Use the following guidelines for proper floor mat usage.

The original equipment floor mats were designed for the vehicle. If the floor mats need replacing, it is recommended that GM certified floor mats be purchased. Non-GM floor mats may not fit properly and may interfere with the pedals. Always check that the floor mats do not interfere with the pedals.

. Use the floor mat with the

correct side up. Do not turn it over.

. Do not place anything on top of

the driver side floor mat.

. Use only a single floor mat on

the driver side.

. Do not place one floor mat on

top of another.

Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. { WARNING

Do not bleach or dye safety belts. It may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Floor Mats

{ WARNING

If a floor mat is the wrong size or is not properly installed, it can interfere with the pedals. Interference with the pedals can cause unintended acceleration and/or increased stopping distance which can cause a crash and injury. Make sure the floor mat does not interfere with the pedals.

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10-100

Vehicle Care

2 NOTES

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Service and Maintenance

11-1

Service and Maintenance

General Information

General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . 11-3

Special Application Services

Special Application

Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8

Additional Maintenance and Care

Additional Maintenance

and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8

Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts

Recommended Fluids and

Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12

Maintenance Replacement

Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14

Maintenance Records

Maintenance Records . . . . . . 11-15

General Information This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. For diesel engine vehicles, see the maintenance schedule section in the Duramax Diesel Supplement. Your vehicle is an important investment. This section describes the required maintenance for the vehicle. Follow this schedule to help protect against major repair expenses resulting from neglect or inadequate maintenance. It may also help to maintain the value of the vehicle if it is sold. It is the responsibility of the owner to have all required maintenance performed.

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11-2

Service and Maintenance

Your dealer has trained technicians who can perform required maintenance using genuine replacement parts. They have up‐to‐date tools and equipment for fast and accurate diagnostics. Many dealers have extended evening and Saturday hours, courtesy transportation, and online scheduling to assist with service needs. Your dealer recognizes the importance of providing competitively priced maintenance and repair services. With trained technicians, the dealer is the place for routine maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations and additional maintenance items like tires, brakes, batteries, and wiper blades. Notice: Damage caused by improper maintenance can lead to costly repairs and may not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections, recommended fluids, and lubricants are important to keep the vehicle in good working condition. The Tire Rotation and Required Services are the responsibility of the vehicle owner. It is recommended to have your dealer perform these services every 12 000 km/7,500 mi. Proper vehicle maintenance helps to keep the vehicle in good working condition, improves fuel economy, and reduces vehicle emissions. Because of the way people use vehicles, maintenance needs vary. There may need to be more frequent checks and services. The Additional Required Services ‐ Normal are for vehicles that: . Carry passengers and cargo within recommended limits on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑11.

. Are driven on reasonable road

surfaces within legal driving limits.

. Use the recommended fuel. See Recommended Fuel on page 9‑40.

Refer to the information in the Maintenance Schedule Additional Required Services ‐ Normal chart. The Additional Required Services ‐ Severe are for vehicles that are: . Mainly driven in hilly or

mountainous terrain. Frequently towing a trailer.

. Used for high speed or

competitive driving.

. Used for taxi, police, or delivery

service.

Refer to the information in the Maintenance Schedule Additional Required Services ‐ Severe chart.

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{ WARNING

Performing maintenance work can be dangerous and can cause serious injury. Perform maintenance work only if the required information, proper tools, and equipment are available. If they are not, see your dealer to have a trained technician do the work. See Doing Your Own Service Work on page 10‑4.

Service and Maintenance

11-3

Maintenance Schedule

Owner Checks and Services

At Each Fuel Stop . Check the engine oil level.

See Engine Oil on page 10‑7.

Once a Month . Check the tire inflation

pressures. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑56. Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire Inspection on page 10‑62.

. Check the windshield washer

fluid level. See Washer Fluid on page 10‑25.

Engine Oil Change When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message displays, have the engine oil and filter changed within the next 1 000 km/600 mi. If driven under the best conditions, the engine oil life system might not indicate the need for vehicle service for more than a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and the oil life system must be reset. Your trained dealer technician can perform this work. If the engine oil life system is reset accidentally, service the vehicle within 5 000 km/3,000 mi since the last service. Reset the oil life system when the oil is changed. See Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑10.

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11-4

Service and Maintenance

Tire Rotation and Required Services Every 12 000 km/ 7,500 mi Rotate the tires, if recommended for the vehicle, and perform the following services. See Tire Rotation on page 10‑62. . Check engine oil level and oil

life percentage. If needed, change engine oil and filter, and reset oil life system. See Engine Oil on page 10‑7 and Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑10.

. Check engine coolant level. See Engine Coolant on page 10‑18. . Check windshield washer fluid

level. See Washer Fluid on page 10‑25.

. Visually inspect windshield wiper

blades for wear, cracking, or contamination. See Exterior Care on page 10‑93. Replace worn or damaged wiper blades. See Wiper Blade Replacement on page 10‑34.

. Check tire inflation pressures.

See Tire Pressure on page 10‑56. Inspect tire wear. See Tire Inspection on page 10‑62.

. Visually check for fluid leaks.

Inspect engine air cleaner filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 10‑16. Inspect brake system.

. Visually inspect steering, suspension, and chassis components for damaged, loose, or missing parts or signs of wear. See Exterior Care on page 10‑93.

. Check restraint system

components. See Safety System Check on page 3‑16.

. Visually inspect fuel system for

damage or leaks.

. Visually inspect exhaust system

and nearby heat shields for loose or damaged parts.

Lubricate body components. See Exterior Care on page 10‑93.

. Check starter switch. See Starter

Switch Check on page 10‑33. . Check automatic transmission shift lock control function. See Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check on page 10‑33.

. Check ignition transmission lock.

See Ignition Transmission Lock Check on page 10‑33.

. Check parking brake and

automatic transmission park mechanism. See Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check on page 10‑34.

. Check accelerator pedal for

damage, high effort, or binding. Replace if needed.

. Visually inspect gas strut for

signs of wear, cracks, or other damage. Check the hold open ability of the strut. See your dealer if service is required.

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Service and Maintenance

11-5

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11-6

Service and Maintenance

Footnotes — Maintenance Schedule Additional Required Services — Normal a) Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper hook‐up, routing, and condition. Check that the purge valve, if the vehicle has one, works properly. Replace as needed. b) Or every four years, whichever comes first.

c) Do not directly power wash the transfer case output seals. High pressure water can overcome the seals and contaminate the transfer case fluid. Contaminated fluid will decrease the life of the transfer case and should be replaced. d) Or every five years, whichever comes first. See Cooling System on page 10‑18. e) Or every 10 years, whichever comes first. Inspect for fraying, excessive cracking, or damage; replace, if needed.

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Service and Maintenance

11-7

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11-8

Service and Maintenance

Special Application Services . Vehicles with Dual Wheels:

Check dual wheel nut torque at 160 km/100 mi, 1 600 km/ 1,000 mi and 9 700 km/6,000 mi.

. Severe Commercial Use

Vehicles Only: Lubricate chassis components every 5 000 km/ 3,000 mi.

. Have underbody flushing service

performed once a year.

Additional Maintenance and Care Your vehicle is an important investment and caring for it properly may help to avoid future costly repairs. To maintain vehicle performance, additional maintenance services may be required. It is recommended that your dealer perform these services — their trained dealer technicians know your vehicle best. Your dealer can also perform a thorough assessment with a multi‐point inspection to recommend when your vehicle may need attention. The following list is intended to explain the services and conditions to look for that may indicate services are required.

Footnotes — Maintenance Schedule Additional Required Services — Severe a) Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper hook‐up, routing, and condition. Check that the purge valve, if the vehicle has one, works properly. Replace as needed. b) Or every four years, whichever comes first. c) Do not directly power wash the transfer case output seals. High pressure water can overcome the seals and contaminate the transfer case fluid. Contaminated fluid will decrease the life of the transfer case and should be replaced. d) Or every five years, whichever comes first. See Cooling System on page 10‑18. e) Or every 10 years, whichever comes first. Inspect for fraying, excessive cracking, or damage; replace, if needed.

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Battery The battery supplies power to start the engine and operate any additional electrical accessories.

To avoid break‐down or failure to start the vehicle, maintain a battery with full cranking power. Trained dealer technicians have the diagnostic equipment to test the battery and ensure that the connections and cables are corrosion‐free.

Belts . Belts may need replacing if

they squeak or show signs of cracking or splitting. Trained dealer technicians can inspect the belts and recommend replacement when necessary.

Service and Maintenance

11-9

Brakes Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to safe driving. . Signs of brake wear may include

chirping, grinding, or squealing noises, or difficulty stopping. Trained dealer technicians have access to tools and equipment to inspect the brakes and recommend quality parts engineered for the vehicle.

Fluids Proper fluid levels and approved fluids protect the vehicle’s systems and components. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑12 for GM approved fluids. . Engine oil and windshield

washer fluid levels should be checked at every fuel fill. Instrument cluster lights may come on to indicate that fluids may be low and need to be filled.

Hoses Hoses transport fluids and should be regularly inspected to ensure that there are no cracks or leaks. With a multi‐point inspection, your dealer can inspect the hoses and advise if replacement is needed.

Lamps Properly working headlamps, taillamps, and brake lamps are important to see and be seen on the road. . Signs that the headlamps need

attention include dimming, failure to light, cracking, or damage. The brake lamps need to be checked periodically to ensure that they light when braking. . With a multi‐point inspection,

your dealer can check the lamps and note any concerns.

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11-10

Service and Maintenance

Shocks and Struts Shocks and struts help aid in control for a smoother ride. . Signs of wear may include

steering wheel vibration, bounce/ sway while braking, longer stopping distance, or uneven tire wear.

. As part of the multi‐point inspection, trained dealer technicians can visually inspect the shocks and struts for signs of leaking, blown seals, or damage, and can advise when service is needed.

Tires Tires need to be properly inflated, rotated, and balanced. Maintaining the tires can save money, fuel, and can reduce the risk of tire failure. . Signs that the tires need to be replaced include three or more visible treadwear indicators; cord or fabric showing through the rubber; cracks or cuts in the tread or sidewall; or a bulge or split in the tire. Trained dealer technicians can inspect and recommend the right tires. Your dealer can also provide tire/wheel balancing services to ensure smooth vehicle operation at all speeds. Your dealer sells and services name brand tires.

Vehicle Care To help keep the vehicle looking like new, vehicle care products are available from your dealer. For information on how to clean and protect the vehicle’s interior and exterior, see Interior Care on page 10‑97 and Exterior Care on page 10‑93.

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Service and Maintenance

11-11

Wheel Alignment Wheel alignment is critical for ensuring that the tires deliver optimal wear and performance. . Signs that the alignment may

need to be adjusted include pulling, improper vehicle handling, or unusual tire wear.

. Your dealer has the required equipment to ensure proper wheel alignment.

Windshield For safety, appearance, and the best viewing, keep the windshield clean and clear. . Signs of damage include

scratches, cracks, and chips. Trained dealer technicians can inspect the windshield and recommend proper replacement if needed.

Wiper Blades Wiper blades need to be cleaned and kept in good condition to provide a clear view. . Signs of wear include streaking, skipping across the windshield, and worn or split rubber. Trained dealer technicians can check the wiper blades and replace them when needed.

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11-12

Service and Maintenance

Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts Recommended Fluids and Lubricants

This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the maintenance schedule section in the Duramax Diesel Supplement.

Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.

Usage

Engine Oil

Engine Coolant

Hydraulic Brake System

Windshield Washer

Parking Brake Cable Guides

Power Steering System Automatic Transmission

Key Lock Cylinders

Fluid/Lubricant

Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specfication, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. See Engine Oil on page 10‑7. 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant. See Engine Coolant on page 10‑18. DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 12377967, in Canada 89021320). Optikleen® Washer Solvent. Chassis Lubricant (GM Part No. 12377985, in Canada 88901242) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB. GM Power Steering Fluid (GM Part No. 89021184, in Canada 89021186). DEXRON®‐VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in Canada 10953474).

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Service and Maintenance

11-13

Usage

Chassis Lubrication

Front Wheel Bearings

Front and Rear Axle

Transfer Case

Fluid/Lubricant

Chassis Lubricant (GM Part No. 12377985, in Canada 88901242) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB. Wheel bearing lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category GC or GC-LB (GM Part No. 1051344, in Canada 993037). SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. 89021677, in Canada 89021678). DEXRON®‐VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.

One-Piece Propshaft Slip Yoke

Spline, Two-Piece Propshaft

Slip-in-Tube Spline

Hood Hinges

Weatherstrip Conditioning

Weatherstrip Squeaks

Spline Lubricant, Special Lubricant (GM Part No. 12345879, in Canada 10953511).

Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in Canada 10953474). Weatherstrip Lubricant (GM Part No. 3634770, in Canada 10953518) or Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part No. 12345579, in Canada 992887). Synthetic Grease with Teflon, Superlube (GM Part No. 12371287, in Canada 10953437).

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11-14

Service and Maintenance

Maintenance Replacement Parts If the vehicle has the Duramax® diesel engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement for more information. Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.

Part

GM Part Number

ACDelco Part Number

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Engine Oil Filter

4.3L V6
4.8L V8; 5.3L V8; 6.0L V8

Spark Plugs

4.3L V6
4.8L V8; 5.3L V8; 6.0L V8

Wiper Blades – 56.0 cm (22 in)

15950115

A3097C

25010792
89017524

12568387
12621258
25949887

PF47
PF48

41-101
41-110

—

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Service and Maintenance

11-15

Maintenance Records After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the type of services performed in the boxes provided. Retain all maintenance receipts.