2010 Chevrolet Suburban Owners Manual

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children with special needs. { WARNING: To reduce the risk of neck and head injury during a crash, infants need complete support. This is because an infant's neck is not fully developed and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing child restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant's body, the back and shoulders. Infants should always be secured in rear-facing child restraints. 2-62 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (63,1) { WARNING: A young child's hip bones are still so small that the vehicle's regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child's abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that is unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries during a crash, young children should always be secured in appropriate child restraints. Child Restraint Systems A rear-facing infant seat (A) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint. 2-63 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (64,1) A forward-facing child seat (B) provides restraint for the child's body with the harness. A booster seat (C-D) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit of the vehicle's safety belt system. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window. 2-64 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (65,1) Securing an Add-On Child Restraint in the Vehicle { WARNING: A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle. Secure the child restraint properly in the vehicle using the vehicle's safety belt or LATCH system, following the instructions that came with that child restraint and the instructions in this manual. When securing an add-on child restraint, refer to the instructions that come with the restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in the vehicle — even when no child is in it. Securing the Child Within the Child Restraint To help reduce the chance of injury, the child restraint must be secured in the vehicle. Child restraint systems must be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt, or by the LATCH system. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑68 for more information. A child can be endangered in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle. { WARNING: A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Secure the child properly following the instructions that came with that child restraint. 2-65 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (66,1) Where to Put the Restraint According to accident statistics, children and infants are safer when properly restrained in a child restraint system or infant restraint system secured in a rear seating position. We recommend that children and child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including: an infant or a child riding in a rear-facing child restraint; a child riding in a forward-facing child seat; an older child riding in a booster seat; and children, who are large enough, using safety belts. A label on your sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. { WARNING: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. A child in a forward-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates and the passenger seat is in a forward position. The vehicle may have a passenger sensing system which is designed to turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. Even if the passenger sensing system, if equipped, has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. (Continued) 2-66 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (67,1) Do not use child restraints in the center front seat position. When securing a child restraint in a rear seating position, study the instructions that came with your child restraint to make sure it is compatible with this vehicle. Wherever a child restraint is installed, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle — even when no child is in it. WARNING: (Continued) Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. See Passenger Sensing System on page 2‑94 for additional information. { WARNING: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the frontal airbags if they inflate. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It is always better to secure a child restraint in a rear seat. 2-67 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (68,1) Lower Anchors Lower anchors (A) are metal bars built into the vehicle. There are two lower anchors for each LATCH seating position that will accommodate a child restraint with lower attachments (B). Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) The LATCH system holds a child restraint during driving or in a crash. This system is designed to make installation of a child restraint easier. The LATCH system uses anchors in the vehicle and attachments on the child restraint that are made for use with the LATCH system. Make sure that a LATCH-compatible child restraint is properly installed using the anchors, or use the vehicle's safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. When installing a child restraint with a top tether, you must also use either the lower anchors or the safety belts to properly secure the child restraint. A child restraint must never be attached using only the top tether and anchor. In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you need a child restraint that has LATCH attachments. The child restraint manufacturer will provide you with instructions on how to use the child restraint and its attachments. The following explains how to attach a child restraint with these attachments in your vehicle. Not all vehicle seating positions or child restraints have lower anchors and attachments or top tether anchors and attachments. 2-68 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (69,1) Top Tether Anchor Your child restraint may have a single tether (A) or a dual tether (C). Either will have a single attachment (B) to secure the top tether to the anchor. Some child restraints with top tethers are designed for use with or without the top tether being attached. Others require the top tether always to be attached. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint. If the child restraint does not have a top tether, one can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints. Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a kit is available. A top tether (A, C) anchors the top of the child restraint to the vehicle. A top tether anchor is built into the vehicle. The top tether attachment (B) on the child restraint connects to the top tether anchor in the vehicle in order to reduce the forward movement and rotation of the child restraint during driving or in a crash. 2-69 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (70,1) Lower Anchor and Top Tether Anchor Locations j (Lower Anchor): Seating positions with two lower anchors. i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors. j (Lower Anchor): Seating positions with two lower anchors. i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors. Second Row — 60/40 Second Row — Bucket 2-70 i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors. There is one top tether anchor that can be used for either the third row center or driver side seating position but not both at the same time. Third Row — Three Passenger For models with a three passenger third row seat, see the information following for installing a child restraint with a top tether in the third row, if your vehicle has one. Never install two top tethers using the same top tether anchor. For models with 60/40 second row seating, the rear right side passenger and center seating positions have exposed metal anchors located in the crease between the seatback and the seat cushion. For models with second row bucket seats, both rear seating positions have exposed metal anchors located in the crease between the seatback and the seat cushion. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (71,1) Second Row Seat — Bucket Second Row Seat — 60/40 For models with bucket second row seating, the top tether anchors are located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion for each seating position in the second row. Be sure to use an anchor located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. For models with 60/40 second row seating, the top tether anchors are located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion for each seating position in the second row. Be sure to use an anchor located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. 2-71 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (72,1) According to accident statistics, children and infants are safer when properly restrained in a child restraint system or infant restraint system secured in a rear seating position. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 2‑66 for additional information. Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System { WARNING: If a LATCH-type child restraint is not attached to anchors, the child restraint will not be able to protect the child correctly. In a crash, the child could be seriously injured or killed. Install a LATCH-type child restraint properly using the anchors, or use the vehicle's safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with the child restraint and the instructions in this manual. Third Row Seat — Three Passenger For vehicles with a three passenger third row seat, there is one top tether anchor located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion that can be used for either the third row center or driver side seating position. Never install two top tethers using the same top tether anchor. Do not secure a child restraint in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be attached, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be attached. 2-72 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (73,1) { WARNING: Do not attach more than one child restraint to a single anchor. Attaching more than one child restraint to a single anchor could cause the anchor or attachment to come loose or even break during a crash. A child or others could be injured. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries during a crash, attach only one child restraint per anchor. { WARNING: Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and the safety belt continues to tighten. Buckle any unused safety belts behind the child restraint so children cannot reach them. Pull the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock, if your vehicle has one, after the child restraint has been installed. Notice: Do not let the LATCH attachments rub against the vehicle’s safety belts. This may damage these parts. If necessary, move buckled safety belts to avoid rubbing the LATCH attachments. Do not fold the empty rear seat with a safety belt buckled. This could damage the safety belt or the seat. Unbuckle and return the safety belt to its stowed position, before folding the seat. 1. Attach and tighten the lower attachments to the lower anchors. If the child restraint does not have lower attachments or the desired seating position does not have lower anchors, secure the child restraint with the top tether and the safety belts. Refer to your child restraint manufacturer instructions and the instructions in this manual. 1. 1. Find the lower anchors for the desired seating position. 1. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 1. 3. Attach and tighten the lower attachments on the child restraint to the lower anchors. 2-73 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (74,1) 2. If the child restraint manufacturer recommends that the top tether be attached, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor, if the vehicle has one. Refer to the child restraint instructions and the following steps: 2. 1. Find the top tether anchor. 2. 2. Route, attach and tighten the top tether according to your child restraint instructions and the following instructions: If the position you are using does not have a headrest or head restraint and you are using a single tether, route the tether over the seatback. If the position you are using does not have a headrest or head restraint and you are using a dual tether, route the tether over the seatback. If the position you are using has an adjustable headrest or head restraint and you are using a dual tether, route the tether around the headrest or head restraint. 2-74 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (75,1) If the position you are using has an adjustable headrest or head restraint and you are using a single tether, raise the headrest or head restraint and route the tether under the headrest or head restraint and in between the headrest or head restraint posts. 3. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position When securing a child restraint in a rear seating position, study the instructions that came with the child restraint to make sure it is compatible with this vehicle. If the child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑68 for how and where to install the child restraint using LATCH. If a child restraint is secured in the vehicle using a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑68 for top tether anchor locations. Do not secure a child seat in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. 2-75 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (76,1) In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. If the child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the safety belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. If more than one child restraint needs to be installed in the rear seat, be sure to read Where to Put the Restraint on page 2‑66. The vehicle's lap‐shoulder belts for the first and second row seating positions are equipped with free‐falling latch plates. If the vehicle has a third row, the lap‐shoulder belts have either free‐falling or cinching latch plates. Use the following pictures to determine the latch plate style: Free‐Falling Latch Plate 2-76 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (77,1) Cinching Latch Plate 1. Put the child restraint on the seat. 2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. For third row seating positions, with cinching latch plates, tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. 2-77 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (78,1) 3. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Position the release button on the buckle so that the safety belt could be quickly unbuckled if necessary. 4. For passenger seating positions with a lap‐ shoulder belt and a free‐falling latch plate, pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. When installing a child restraint using a lap‐shoulder belt and a cinching latch plate, skip Step 4 and proceed to Step 5. 2-78 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (79,1) 5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. When installing a forward-facing child restraint, it may be helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. If the child restraint has a top tether, follow the child restraint manufacturer's instructions regarding the use of the top tether. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑68 for more information. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, unbuckle the vehicle safety belt and let it return to the stowed position. If the top tether is attached to a top tether anchor, disconnect it. 2-79 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (80,1) Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. { WARNING: { WARNING: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. A child in a forward-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates and the passenger seat is in a forward position. The vehicle may have a passenger sensing system which is designed to turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. (Continued) A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the frontal airbags if they inflate. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It is always better to secure a child restraint in a rear seat. Do not use child restraints in the center front seat position. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position This vehicle has airbags. A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child restraint. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 2‑66. In addition, the vehicle may have a passenger sensing system which is designed to turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. See Passenger Sensing System on page 2‑94 and Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4‑34 for more information, including important safety information. 2-80 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (81,1) Do not secure a child seat in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. 1. Move the seat as far back as it will go before securing the forward-facing child restraint. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. WARNING: (Continued) Even if the passenger sensing system, if equipped, has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. See Passenger Sensing System on page 2‑94 for additional information. If the child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑68 for how and where to install the child restraint using LATCH. If a child restraint is secured using a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑68 for top tether anchor locations. 2-81 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (82,1) 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Position the release button on the buckle so that the safety belt could be quickly unbuckled if necessary. 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 2-82 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (83,1) If the vehicle is equipped with the passenger sensing system, and when the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the off indicator in the passenger airbag status indicator should light and stay lit when you start the vehicle. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4‑34. If a child restraint has been installed and the on indicator is lit, see “If the On Indicator is Lit for a Child Restraint” under Passenger Sensing System on page 2‑94 for more information. To remove the child restraint, unbuckle the vehicle safety belt and let it return to the stowed position. 2-83 6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. When installing a forward-facing child restraint, it may be helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (84,1) Airbag System The vehicle has the following airbags: . A frontal airbag for the driver. . A frontal airbag for the right front passenger. . A roof-rail airbag for the driver and passenger directly behind the driver. . A roof-rail airbag for the right front passenger and the person seated directly behind that passenger. The vehicle may have the following airbags: . A seat‐mounted side impact airbag for the driver. . A seat‐mounted side impact airbag for the right front passenger. If the vehicle has a third row seat, it will have a third row roof-rail airbag. All of the airbags in the vehicle will have the word AIRBAG embossed in the trim or on an attached label near the deployment opening. For frontal airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear on the middle part of the steering wheel for the driver and on the instrument panel for the right front passenger. With seat‐mounted side impact airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear on the side of the seatback closest to the door. With roof-rail airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear along the headliner or trim. Airbags are designed to supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Even though today's airbags are also designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating bag, all airbags must inflate very quickly to do their job. 2-84 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (85,1) Here are the most important things to know about the airbag system: { WARNING: { WARNING: You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt — even if you have airbags. Airbags are designed to work with safety belts, but do not replace them. Also, airbags are not designed to deploy in every crash. In some crashes safety belts are your only restraint. See When Should an Airbag Inflate? on page 2‑90 . Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Airbags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag for that person. Airbags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Do not sit unnecessarily close to the airbag, as you would be if you were sitting on the edge of your seat or leaning forward. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with airbags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle. Occupants should not lean on or sleep against the door or side windows in seating positions with seat-mounted side impact airbags and/or roof-rail airbags. 2-85 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (86,1) { WARNING: Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts offer protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle's safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see Older Children on page 2‑57 or Infants and Young Children on page 2‑59 . There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4‑33 for more information. 2-86 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (87,1) Where Are the Airbags? The driver frontal airbag is in the middle of the steering wheel. The right front passenger frontal airbag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side. 2-87 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (88,1) Driver Side Shown, Passenger Side Similar Driver Side shown, Passenger Side similar If the vehicle has seat‐mounted side impact airbags for the driver and right front passenger, they are in the side of the seatbacks closest to the door. The roof-rail airbags for the driver, right front passenger, and second row outboard passengers are in the ceiling above the side windows. 2-88 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (89,1) Driver Side shown, Passenger Side similar If the vehicle has a third row passenger seat, the roof-rail airbags are located in the ceiling above the rear windows for the outboard passenger positions in the third row. { WARNING: If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the airbag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inflating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put anything between an occupant and an airbag, and do not attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering. Do not use seat accessories that block the inflation path of a seat-mounted side impact airbag. Never secure anything to the roof of a vehicle with roof-rail airbags by routing a rope or tie down through any door or window opening. If you do, the path of an inflating roof-rail airbag will be blocked. 2-89 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (90,1) When Should an Airbag Inflate? Frontal airbags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes to help reduce the potential for severe injuries mainly to the driver's or right front passenger's head and chest. However, they are only designed to inflate if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold. Deployment thresholds are used to predict how severe a crash is likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate and help restrain the occupants. Whether the frontal airbags will or should deploy is not based on how fast the vehicle is traveling. It depends largely on what you hit, the direction of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows down. Frontal airbags may inflate at different crash speeds. For example: If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a moving object. If the vehicle hits an object that deforms, the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits an object does not deform. If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole), the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a wide object (like a wall). If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle, the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle goes straight into the object. Thresholds can also vary with specific vehicle design. Frontal airbags are not intended to inflate during vehicle rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts. In addition, the vehicle has dual-stage frontal airbags. Dual-stage airbags adjust the restraint according to crash severity. The vehicle has electronic frontal sensors, which help the sensing system distinguish between a moderate frontal impact and a more severe frontal impact. For moderate frontal impacts, dual-stage airbags inflate at a level less than full deployment. For more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs. The vehicle has a seat position sensor. Vehicles with dual stage airbags also have seat position sensors which enable the sensing system to monitor the position of the driver seat. The seat position sensor provides information that is used to determine if the airbags should deploy at a reduced level or at full deployment 2-90 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (91,1) The vehicle may or may not have seat‐mounted side impact airbags. The vehicle has roof-rail airbags. See Airbag System on page 2‑84 . Seat‐mounted side impact airbags and roof-rail airbags are intended to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes. In addition, these roof-rail airbags are intended to inflate during a rollover or in a severe frontal impact. Seat‐mounted side impact airbags and roof-rail airbags will inflate if the crash severity is above the system's designed threshold level. The threshold level can vary with specific vehicle design. Roof-rail airbags are not intended to inflate in rear impacts. A seat‐mounted side impact airbag is intended to deploy on the side of the veicle that is struck. Both roof-rail airbags will deploy when either side of the vehicle is struck or if the sensing system predicts that the vehicle is about to roll over, or in a severe frontal impact. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an airbag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. For frontal airbags, inflation is determined by what the vehicle hits, the angle of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows down. For seat‐mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags, deployment is determined by the location and severity of the side impact. In a rollover event, roof-rail airbag deployment is determined by the direction of the roll. What Makes an Airbag Inflate? In a deployment event, the sensing system sends an electrical signal triggering a release of gas from the inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the airbag causing the bag to break out of the cover and deploy. The inflator, the airbag, and related hardware are all part of the airbag module. Frontal airbag modules are located inside the steering wheel and instrument panel. For vehicles with seat‐mounted side impact airbags, there are airbags modules in the side of the front seatbacks closest to the door. For vehicles with roof-rail airbags, there are airbag modules in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the side windows that have occupant seating positions. How Does an Airbag Restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside of the vehicle. Airbags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Frontal airbags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant's upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. Seat‐mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant's upper body. 2-91 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (92,1) The parts of the airbag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There may be some smoke and dust coming from the vents in the deflated airbags. Airbag inflation does not prevent the driver from seeing out of the windshield or being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it prevent people from leaving the vehicle. { WARNING: When an airbag inflates, there may be dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but cannot get out of the vehicle after an airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or a door. If you experience breathing problems following an airbag deployment, you should seek medical attention. Rollover capable roof-rail airbags are designed to help contain the head and chest of occupants in the outboard seating positions in the first, second, and third rows, if equipped with a third row seat. The rollover capable roof-rail airbags are designed to help reduce the risk of full or partial ejection in rollover events, although no system can prevent all such ejections. But airbags would not help in many types of collisions, primarily because the occupant's motion is not toward those airbags. See When Should an Airbag Inflate? on page 2‑90 for more information. Airbags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts. What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? After the frontal airbags and seat-mounted side impact airbags inflate, they quickly deflate, so quickly that some people may not even realize an airbag inflated. Roof-rail airbags may still be at least partially inflated for some time after they deploy. Some components of the airbag module may be hot for several minutes. For location of the airbag modules, see What Makes an Airbag Inflate? on page 2‑91. 2-92 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (93,1) The vehicle has a feature that may automatically unlock the doors, turn on the interior lamps and hazard warning flashers, and shut off the fuel system after the airbags inflate. You can lock the doors, turn off the interior lamps and hazard warning flashers by using the controls for those features. { WARNING: A crash severe enough to inflate the airbags may have also damaged important functions in the vehicle, such as the fuel system, brake and steering systems, etc. Even if the vehicle appears to be drivable after a moderate crash, there may be concealed damage that could make it difficult to safely operate the vehicle. Use caution if you should attempt to restart the engine after a crash has occurred. In many crashes severe enough to inflate the airbag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger airbag. . Airbags are designed to inflate only once. After an airbag inflates, you will need some new parts for the airbag system. If you do not get them, the airbag system will not be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include airbag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. The vehicle has a crash sensing and diagnostic module which records information after a crash. See Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy on page 8‑18 and Event Data Recorders on page 8‑18 . Let only qualified technicians work on the airbag systems. Improper service can mean that an airbag system will not work properly. See your dealer for service. 2-93 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (94,1) Passenger Sensing System If the vehicle has the passenger airbag status indicator pictured in the following illustration, then the vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger position. The passenger airbag status indicator, if equipped, is visible on the overhead console when the vehicle is started. In addition, if the vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger position, the label on the vehicle's sun visors refers to “ADVANCED AIRBAGS”. United States Canada The words ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, will be visible during the system check. If you are using remote start, if equipped, to start the vehicle from a distance, you may not see the system check. When the system check is complete, either the word ON or OFF, or the symbol for on or off, will be visible. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4‑34. 2-94 The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver airbag, seat‐mounted side impact airbags (if equipped) and the roof-rail airbags are not affected by the passenger sensing system. The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger seat and safety belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the right front passenger frontal airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or not. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly secured in a rear seat in the correct child restraint for their weight and size. We recommend that children be secured in a rear seat, including: an infant or a child riding in a rear-facing child restraint; a child riding in a forward-facing child seat; an older child riding in a booster seat; and children, who are large enough, using safety belts. A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (95,1) { WARNING: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. A child in a forward-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates and the passenger seat is in a forward position. Even if the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though the airbag is turned off. Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag if: The right front passenger seat is unoccupied. The system determines an infant is present in a child restraint. . A right front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of time. . Or, if there is a critical problem with the airbag system or the passenger sensing system. When the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the off indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4‑34. The passenger sensing system is designed to turn on (may inflate) the right front passenger frontal airbag anytime the system senses that a person of adult size is sitting properly in the right front passenger seat. When the passenger sensing system has allowed the airbag to be enabled, the on indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is active. 2-95 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (96,1) For some children, including children in child restraints, and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag, depending upon the person's seating posture and body build. Everyone in your vehicle who has outgrown child restraints should wear a safety belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag for that person. { WARNING: If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4‑33 for more information, including important safety information. If the On Indicator is Lit for a Child Restraint If a child restraint has been installed and the on indicator is lit: 1. Turn the vehicle off. 2. Remove the child restraint from the vehicle. 2-96 3. Remove any additional items from the seat such as blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat heaters, or seat massagers. 4. Reinstall the child restraint following the directions 5. provided by the child restraint manufacturer and refer to Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position on page 2‑80. If, after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, turn the vehicle off. Then slightly recline the vehicle seatback and adjust the seat cushion, if adjustable, to make sure that the vehicle seatback is not pushing the child restraint into the seat cushion. Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens, adjust the head restraint. See Head Restraints on page 2‑3 . 6. Restart the vehicle. The passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the airbag for a child in a child restraint depending upon the child’s seating posture and body build. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (97,1) If the Off Indicator is Lit for an Adult-Size Occupant If this happens, use the following steps to allow the system to detect that person and enable the right front passenger frontal airbag: 1. Turn the vehicle off. 2. Remove any additional material from the seat, such as blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat heaters, or seat massagers. 3. Place the seatback in the fully upright position. 4. Have the person sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion, with legs comfortably extended. 5. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in this position for two to three minutes after the on indicator is lit. If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front passenger seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be because that person is not sitting properly in the seat. 2-97 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (98,1) The on indicator may be lit if an object, such as a briefcase, handbag, grocery bag, laptop or other electronic device, is put on an unoccupied seat. If this is not desired remove the object from the seat. { WARNING: Stowing of articles under the passenger seat or between the passenger seat cushion and seatback may interfere with the proper operation of the passenger sensing system. Additional Factors Affecting System Operation Safety belts help keep the passenger in position on the seat during vehicle maneuvers and braking, which helps the passenger sensing system maintain the passenger airbag status. See “Safety Belts” and “Child Restraints” in the Index for additional information about the importance of proper restraint use. If the shoulder portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, the child restraint locking feature will be engaged. This may unintentionally cause the passenger sensing system to turn the airbag off for some adult size occupants. If this happens, let the belt go back all the way and start again. A thick layer of additional material, such as a blanket or cushion, or aftermarket equipment such as seat covers, seat heaters, and seat massagers can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates. We recommend that you not use seat covers or other aftermarket equipment except when approved by GM for your specific vehicle. See Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 2‑100 for more information about modifications that can affect how the system operates. 2-98 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (99,1) Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Airbags affect how the vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in several places around the vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing the vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 8‑16 . { WARNING: For up to 10 seconds after the ignition is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an airbag when it inflates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are probably part of the airbag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so. 2-99 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (100,1) Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Q: Is there anything I might add to or change about the vehicle that could keep the airbags from working properly? A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle's frame, bumper system, height, front end or side sheet metal, they may keep the airbag system from working properly. Changing or moving any parts of the front seats, safety belts, the airbag sensing and diagnostic module, steering wheel, instrument panel, roof-rail airbag modules, ceiling headliner or pillar garnish trim, overhead console, front sensors, side impact sensors, rollover sensor module, or airbag wiring can affect the operation of the airbag system. In addition, the vehicle may have a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger's position, which includes sensors that are part of the passenger's seat. The passenger sensing system may not operate properly if the original seat trim is replaced with non-GM covers, upholstery or trim, or with GM covers, upholstery or trim designed for a different vehicle. Any object, such as an aftermarket seat heater or a comfort enhancing pad or device, installed under or on top of the seat fabric, could also interfere with the operation of the passenger sensing system. This could either prevent proper 2-100 deployment of the passenger airbag(s) or prevent the passenger sensing system from properly turning off the passenger airbag(s). See Passenger Sensing System on page 2‑94. If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 8‑2. If the vehicle has rollover roof-rail airbags, see Different Size Tires and Wheels on page 6‑82 for additional important information. Q: What if I added a snow plow? Will it keep the airbags from working properly? A: We have designed our airbag systems to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including snow plowing with vehicles that have the optional Snow Plow Prep Package (RPO VYU). But do not change or defeat the snow plow's “tripping mechanism.” If you do, it can damage your snow plow and your vehicle, and it may cause an airbag inflation. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (101,1) Make sure the safety belt reminder light is working. See Safety Belt Reminders on page 4‑32 for more information. Keep safety belts clean and dry. See Care of Safety Belts on page 6‑111. Airbags The airbag system does not need regularly scheduled maintenance or replacement. Make sure the airbag readiness light is working. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4‑33 for more information. Notice: If an airbag covering is damaged, opened, or broken, the airbag may not work properly. Do not open or break the airbag coverings. If there are any opened or broken airbag covers, have the airbag covering and/or airbag module replaced. For the location of the airbag modules, see What Makes an Airbag Inflate? on page 2‑91. See your dealer for service. Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my vehicle modified. How can I find out whether this will affect my airbag system? A: If you have questions, call Customer Assistance. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 8‑2. In addition, your dealer and the service manual have information about the location of the airbag sensors, sensing and diagnostic module and airbag wiring. Restraint System Check Checking the Restraint Systems Safety Belts Now and then, check that the safety belt reminder light, safety belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are all working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job. See your dealer to have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. 2-101 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (102,1) If the vehicle has the LATCH system and it was being used during a crash, you may need new LATCH system parts. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the safety belt or LATCH system (if equipped), was not being used at the time of the crash. If an airbag inflates, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier in this section. Have the safety belt pretensioners checked if the vehicle has been in a crash, if the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started, or while you are driving. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4‑33 . Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash { WARNING: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible. If the vehicle has been in a crash, do you need new safety belts or LATCH system (if equipped) parts? After a very minor crash, nothing may be necessary. But the safety belt assemblies that were used during any crash may have been stressed or damaged. See your dealer to have the safety belt assemblies inspected or replaced. 2-102 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (1,1) Section 3 Features and Controls Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 Doors and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11 Programmable Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . 3-11 Rear Door Security Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11 Lockout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 Liftgate/Liftglass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13 Power Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15 Power Assist Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18 Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19 Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20 Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22 Theft-Deterrent Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23 Content Theft-Deterrent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23 PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . 3-25 PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25 Starting and Operating Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27 New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27 Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-29 Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30 Adjustable Throttle and Brake Pedal . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31 Engine Coolant Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32 Active Fuel Management™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33 Automatic Transmission Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33 Tow/Haul Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39 Four-Wheel Drive (Two Speed Automatic Transfer Case) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41 Four-Wheel Drive (Single Speed Automatic Transfer Case) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46 Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-48 Shifting Into Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-49 Shifting Out of Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-51 Parking Over Things That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-51 Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-52 Running the Vehicle While Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-53 3-1 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (2,1) Section 3 Features and Controls Universal Home Remote System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-68 Universal Home Remote System Operation (With Three Round LED) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-68 Storage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-75 Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-75 Cupholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-75 Center Console Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-76 Roof Rack System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-76 Rear Storage Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-77 Rear Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-77 Cargo Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-78 Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-79 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54 Manual Rearview Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54 Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54 Outside Manual Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54 Outside Towing Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-55 Outside Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-55 Outside Power Foldaway Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-56 Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57 Park Tilt Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57 Outside Convex Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57 Outside Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57 Object Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-58 Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist (URPA) . . . . . . . . 3-58 Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-60 Rear Vision Camera (RVC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-63 3-2 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (3,1) Keys { WARNING: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. Children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keys in the ignition and children could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children. The key is used for the ignition and all door locks. The key has a bar-coded key tag that the dealer or qualified locksmith can use to make new keys. Store this information in a safe place, not in the vehicle. 3-3 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (4,1) See your dealer if a replacement key or additional key is needed. Notice: If the keys get locked in the vehicle, it may have to be damaged to get them out. Always carry a spare key. If you are locked out of the vehicle, call the Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 8‑7 . Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System See Radio Frequency Statement on page 8‑19 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310. If there is a decrease in the RKE operating range, try this: . Check the distance. The transmitter may be too far from the vehicle. Stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. . Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again. . Check the transmitter's battery. See “Battery Replacement” later in this section. If the transmitter is still not working correctly, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service. 3-4 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (5,1) Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter functions work up to 195 feet (60 m) away from the vehicle. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 3‑4. The following functions may be available if your vehicle has the RKE system: / (Remote Vehicle Start): For vehicles with this feature, press to start the engine from outside the vehicle using the RKE transmitter. See Remote Vehicle Start on page 3‑8 for additional information. Q (Lock): Press to lock all the doors. If enabled through the Driver Information Center (DIC), the turn signal lamps flash once to indicate locking has occurred. If enabled through the DIC, the horn chirps when the lock button is pressed again within three seconds. See DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑73 for additional information. Pressing Q arms the content theft‐deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 3‑23. With Remote Start and Liftglass (Without Remote Start Similar) With Remote Start and Power Liftgate and Liftglass (Without Remote Start Similar) 3-5 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (6,1) K (Unlock): Press once to unlock only the driver door. If K is pressed again within three seconds, all remaining doors unlock. The interior lamps may come on and stay on for 20 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. If enabled through the DIC, the turn signal lamps flash twice to indicate unlocking has occurred. See DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑73 . If enabled through the DIC, the exterior lights turn on briefly if it is dark enough outside. See “APPROACH LIGHTING” under DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑73 . Pressing K on the RKE transmitter disarms the content theft‐deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 3‑23 . m (Liftglass): For vehicles with a liftglass, press and hold to unlock the liftglass. & (Power Liftgate): For vehicles with a power liftgate, press and hold to open and close the liftgate. The taillamps flash and a chime sounds to indicate when the liftgate is opening and closing. L (Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): Press and release to locate the vehicle. The turn signal lamps flash and the horn sounds three times. Press and hold L for more than two seconds to activate the panic alarm. The turn signal lamps flash and the horn sounds repeatedly for 30 seconds. The alarm turns off when the ignition is moved to ON/RUN or L is pressed again. The ignition must be in LOCK/ OFF for the panic alarm to work. The vehicle comes with two transmitters. Each transmitter will have a number on it, “1” or “2”. These numbers correspond to the driver of the vehicle. For example, the memory seat position for driver 1 will be recalled when using the transmitter labeled “1”, if enabled through the DIC. See Memory Seat, Mirrors, and Pedals on page 2‑10 and DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑73 for more information. 3-6 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (7,1) Programming Transmitters to the Vehicle Only RKE transmitters programmed to this vehicle will work. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased and programmed through your dealer. When the replacement transmitter is programmed to this vehicle, all remaining transmitters must also be reprogrammed. Any lost or stolen transmitters will no longer work once the new transmitter is programmed. The vehicle can have a maximum of eight transmitters programmed to it. See “Relearn Remote Key” under DIC Operation and Displays (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑48 or DIC Operation and Displays (Without DIC Buttons) on page 4‑55 for instructions on how to program RKE transmitters to the vehicle. Battery Replacement Replace the battery if the REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY message displays in the DIC. See “REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 4‑62 for additional information. Notice: When replacing the battery, do not touch any of the circuitry on the transmitter. Static from your body could damage the transmitter. To replace the battery: 1. Separate the transmitter with a flat, thin object, such as a flat head screwdriver. . Carefully insert the tool into the notch located along the parting line of the transmitter. Do not insert the tool too far. Stop as soon as resistance is felt. Twist the tool until the transmitter is separated. 2. Remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. 3. Insert the new battery, positive side facing down. Replace with a CR2032 or equivalent battery. 4. Snap the transmitter back together. 3-7 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (8,1) Remote Vehicle Start Your vehicle may have a remote starting feature. This feature allows you to start the engine from outside of the vehicle. It may also start up the vehicle's heating or air conditioning systems and rear window defogger. Normal operation of the system will return after the key is turned to the ON/RUN position. If your vehicle has an automatic climate control system, the climate control system will default to a heating or cooling mode depending on the outside temperatures. If your vehicle does not have an automatic climate control system, the system will turn on at the setting the vehicle was set to when the vehicle was last turned off. During a remote start, if your vehicle has an automatic climate control system and heated seats, the heated seats will turn on during colder outside temperatures and will shut off when the key is turned to ON/RUN. If your vehicle does not have an automatic climate control system, during remote start, you will need to manually turn the heated seats on and off. See Heated Seats on page 2‑8 for additional information. Laws in some communities may restrict the use of remote starters. For example, some laws may require a person using the remote start to have the vehicle in view when doing so. Check local regulations for any requirements on remote starting of vehicles. 3-8 Do not use the remote start feature if your vehicle is low on fuel. Your vehicle may run out of fuel. If your vehicle has the remote start feature, the RKE transmitter functions will have an increased range of operation. However, the range may be less while the vehicle is running. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter, see Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 3‑4 for additional information. / (Remote Start): This button will be on the RKE transmitter if you have remote start. To start the vehicle using the remote start feature: 1. Aim the transmitter at the vehicle. 2. Press and release the transmitter's lock button. The vehicle's doors will lock. Immediately press and hold the transmitter's remote start button until the turn signal lights flash. If you cannot see the vehicle's lights, press and hold the remote start button for two to four seconds. Pressing the remote start button again after the vehicle has started will turn the engine off. When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on while the vehicle is running. If the vehicle is left running it will automatically shut off after 10 minutes unless a time extension has been done. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (9,1) 3. If it is the first remote start since the vehicle has been driven, repeat these steps, while the engine is still running, to extend the engine running time by 10 minutes. Remote start can be extended one time. After entering the vehicle during a remote start, insert and turn the key to RUN to drive the vehicle. To manually shut off a remote start, do any of the following: . Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press the remote start button until the parking lamps turn off. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. Turn the ignition switch on and then off. The vehicle can be remote started two separate times between driving sequences. The engine will run for 10 minutes after each remote start. Or, you can extend the engine run time by another 10 minutes within the first 10 minute remote start time frame, and before the engine stops. For example, if the lock button and then the remote start buttons are pressed again after the vehicle has been running for five minutes, 10 minutes are added, allowing the engine to run for 15 minutes. The additional ten minutes are considered a second remote vehicle start. Once two remote starts, or a single remote start with one time extension has been done, the vehicle must be started with the key. After the key is removed from the ignition, the vehicle can be remote started again. The vehicle cannot be remote started if the key is in the ignition, the hood is not closed, or if there is an emission control system malfunction and the check engine light comes on. Also, the engine will turn off during a remote vehicle start if the coolant temperature gets too high or if the oil pressure gets low. Vehicles that have the remote vehicle start feature are shipped from the factory with the remote vehicle start system enabled. The system may be enabled or disabled through the DIC. See “REMOTE START” under DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑73 for additional information. If your vehicle does not have DIC buttons, see your dealer to enable or disable the remote vehicle start system. Remote Start Ready If your vehicle does not have the remote vehicle start feature, it may have the remote start ready feature. This feature allows your dealer to add the manufacturer's remote vehicle start feature. See your dealer if you would like to add the manufacturer's remote vehicle start feature to your vehicle. 3-9 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (10,1) Doors and Locks Door Locks { WARNING: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. . Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear safety belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven. . Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock the vehicle whenever leaving it. (Continued) 3-10 WARNING: (Continued) . Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening. There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. From the outside, use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or the key in the driver's door. From the inside, use the power door locks or manual door locks. To lock or unlock the door with the manual locks, push down or pull up on the manual lock knob. Power Door Locks With power door locks, the switches on the front doors can be used to lock and unlock the vehicle. " (Unlock): Press to unlock the doors. Q (Lock): Remove the key from the ignition and press to lock the doors. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (11,1) Delayed Locking When locking the doors with the power lock switch and a door or the liftgate is open, the doors will lock five seconds after the last door is closed. You will hear three chimes to signal that the delayed locking feature is in use. Pressing the power lock switch twice will override the delayed locking feature and immediately lock all the doors. This feature will not operate if the key is in the ignition. You can program this feature using the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DELAY DOOR LOCK under DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑73 . Programmable Automatic Door Locks Vehicles with an automatic lock/unlock feature enable you to program the vehicle's power door locks. You can program this feature through the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 4‑73 for more information on DIC programming. Rear Door Security Locks Your vehicle has rear door security locks. These prevent passengers from opening the rear doors from the inside. The rear door security locks are located on the inside edge of each rear door. The rear doors must be open to access them. The label showing lock and unlock positions is located near the lock. 3-11 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (12,1) To set the locks, do the following: 1. Insert the key into the security lock slot and turn it so the slot is in the horizontal position. 2. Close the door. When you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on, do the following: 1. Unlock the door by lifting the rear door manual lock, using the power door lock switch, or the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, if the vehicle has one. 2. Open the door from the outside. To cancel the rear door security lock, do the following: 1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside. 2. Insert the key into the security lock slot and turn it so the slot is in the vertical position. Lockout Protection This feature protects you from locking the key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a front door is open. If the driver's side power door lock switch is pressed when the driver's door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver's door will unlock. If the passenger's side power door lock switch is pressed when the front passenger's door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the front passenger's door will unlock. 3-12 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (13,1) Liftgate/Liftglass { WARNING: It can be dangerous to drive with the liftglass or liftgate open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You cannot see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the liftglass or liftgate open, or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the liftglass or liftgate: . Make sure all other windows are shut. Turn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the recirculation mode off. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See Climate Control System on page 4‑18 or Dual Automatic Climate Control System on page 4‑21. (Continued) WARNING: (Continued) If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way. If your vehicle has a power liftgate, disable the power liftgate function. See Engine Exhaust on page 3‑52. If your vehicle has a power liftgate, see Power Liftgate on page 3‑15 . To unlock the liftgate, use the power door lock switch or press the door unlock button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter twice. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 3‑5 . 3-13 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (14,1) The liftgate or liftglass cannot be opened if the rear wipers are in motion. Attempting to open the liftgate or liftglass while the rear wipers are in motion will cause the release of the liftglass or liftgate to delay until the wipers are moved off the liftglass. Both the liftglass and liftgate have an electric latch. If the battery is disconnected or has low voltage, the liftglass and liftgate will not open. The liftglass and liftgate will resume operation when the battery is reconnected and charged. If the battery is properly connected and has adequate voltage, and the liftgate or liftglass still will not function, your vehicle should be taken to a dealership for service. On vehicles with a liftglass, press the button on the underside of the license pocket applique (A) to open it. The liftglass can also be opened by pressing the liftglass release button on the RKE. To open the entire liftgate, press the touchpad on the underside of the liftgate handle (B). The vehicle must be in PARK (P) to open the liftgate. To close the liftgate, use the pull cup or pull strap as an aid. 3-14 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (15,1) Power Liftgate Power Liftgate Operation { WARNING: Exhaust gases can enter the vehicle if it is driven with the liftgate, trunk/hatch open, or with any objects that pass through the seal between the body and the trunk/hatch or liftgate. Engine exhaust contains Carbon Monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If the vehicle must be driven with the liftgate, or trunk/hatch open: . Close all of the windows. Fully open the air outlets on or under the instrument panel. (Continued) WARNING: (Continued) . Adjust the Climate Control system to a setting that brings in only outside air and set the fan speed to the highest setting. See Climate Control System in the Index. If the vehicle is equipped with a power liftgate, disable the power liftgate function. For more information about carbon monoxide, see Engine Exhaust on page 3‑52. On vehicles with a power liftgate the button is located on the overhead console. The vehicle must be in P (Park) to use the power liftgate feature. & : Press the top of the button to open or close the power liftgate. OFF: Press the bottom of the button for manual operation of the power liftgate. 3-15 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (16,1) The taillamps will flash and a chime will sound when the power liftgate is moving. The power liftgate can be power opened and closed in the following ways: { WARNING: You or others could be injured if caught in the path of the power liftgate. Make sure there is no one in the way of the liftgate as it is opening and closing. Notice: If you open the liftgate without checking for overhead obstructions such as a garage door, you could damage the liftgate or the liftgate glass. Always check to make sure the area above and behind the liftgate is clear before opening it. . Press and hold the power liftgate button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter until the liftgate starts moving. Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 3‑5 for more information. . Pressing the liftgate button on the overhead console. . Pressing the touchpad switch on the outside liftgate handle. Pressing the buttons, or touchpad switch a second time while the liftgate is moving reverses the direction. l : The liftgate can also be closed by pressing the power liftgate button next to the liftgate latch. Press the button a second time during liftgate operation to reverse that operation. 3-16 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (17,1) The power liftgate may be temporarily disabled under extreme temperatures, or under low battery conditions. If this occurs, the liftgate can still be operated manually. If you shift the transmission out of P (Park) while the power function is in progress, the liftgate power function will continue to completion. If you shift the transmission out of P (Park) and accelerate before the power liftgate latches closed, the liftgate may reverse to the open position. Cargo could fall out of the vehicle. Always make sure the power liftgate is closed and latched before you drive away. If you power open the liftgate and the liftgate support struts have lost pressure, the lights will flash and a chime will sound. The liftgate will stay open temporarily, then slowly close. See your dealer for service before using the liftgate. Obstacle Detection Features If the liftgate encounters an obstacle during a power open or close cycle, a warning chime will sound and the liftgate will automatically reverse direction to the full closed or open position. After removing the obstruction, the power liftgate operation can be used again. If the liftgate encounters multiple obstacles on the same power cycle, the power function will deactivate, and you must manually open or close the liftgate. The REAR ACCESS OPEN warning message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) will indicate that the liftgate is open. After removing the obstructions, manually open the liftgate to the full open position or close the liftgate to the fully closed and latched position. The liftgate will now resume normal power operation. Your vehicle has pinch sensors located on the side edges of the liftgate. If an object is caught between the liftgate and the body and presses against this sensor, the liftgate will reverse direction and open fully. The liftgate will remain open until it is activated again or closed manually. Do not force the liftgate open or closed during a power cycle. 3-17 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (18,1) Manual Operation of Power Liftgate To change the liftgate to manual operation, press the switch on the overhead console to the OFF position. With the power liftgate disabled and all of the doors unlocked, the liftgate can be manually opened and closed. To open the liftgate, press the touchpad on the handle on the outside of the liftgate, and lift the gate open. To close the liftgate, use the pull cup to lower the liftgate and close. The liftgate latch will power close. Always close the liftgate before driving. If the RKE button or the power close button on the liftgate is pressed while power operation is disabled, the lights will flash three times, but the liftgate will not move. It is not recommended that you drive with the liftgate open, however, if you must drive with the liftgate open, the liftgate should be set to manual operation by pressing the OFF switch on the center console. The liftgate has an electric latch. If the battery is disconnected or has low voltage, the liftgate will not open. The liftgate will resume operation when the battery is reconnected and charged. If the battery is properly connected with adequate voltage, the switch is not disabled, and the liftgate still will not function, your vehicle should be taken to a dealer for service. 3-18 Power Assist Steps Your vehicle may have power assist steps. The power assist steps automatically extend from beneath the vehicle on the side in which the door has been opened. Once the door is closed, the assist steps automatically move back under the vehicle after a brief delay. The vehicle must not be moving for the assist steps to extend or retract. The switch used to disable the power assist steps is located on the center console below the climate control system. The assist steps cannot be disabled in the extended position. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010 Black plate (19,1) Windows { WARNING: Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. 3-19 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2010

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2010 Chevrolet Suburban Owners Manual