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3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.
The guide must be on top of the belt.
Second Row Seat
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Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies
CAUTION:
Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag 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.
Third Row Seat
4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as
described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Slide the guide onto the storage clip.
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CAUTION:
Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained in a child or infant restraint.
Infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because an infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a frontal crash, an infant in a rear-facing restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of the infant’s body, the back and shoulders. A baby should be secured in an appropriate infant restraint. This is so important that many hospitals today won’t release a newborn infant to its parents unless there is an infant restraint available for the baby’s first trip in a motor vehicle.
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CAUTION: (Continued)
at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.
CAUTION:
Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash
CAUTION: (Continued)
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Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. Q: What are the different types of add-on
child restraints?
A: Add-on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.
An infant car bed (A) is a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle. It’s an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. With an infant car bed, make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle.
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A rear-facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear-facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash. Some infant seats come in two parts -- the base stays secured in the vehicle and the seat part is removable.
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A forward-facing child restraint (C-E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward-facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age. One type, a convertible restraint, is designed to be used either as a rear-facing infant seat or a forward-facing child seat.
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When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Both the owner’s manual and the child restraint instructions are important, so if either one of these is not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer.
A booster seat (F) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs. (18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Booster seats with shields use lap-only belts; however, booster seats without shields use lap-shoulder belts. Booster seats can also help a child to see out the window.
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Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in a rear seat. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat. Here’s why:
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it. Top Strap
CAUTION:
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, but before you do, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly.
In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. In the United States, some child restraints also have a top strap. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored.
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Suburban/Yukon XL models without rear seats: Top strap anchor loops are located at the bottom rear of the front seat cushion for the right front passenger’s position.
Suburban/Yukon XL models with rear seats: A child restraint with a top strap should only be used in the second or third row. Don’t use a child restraint with a top strap in the front seat because there’s no place to anchor the top strap. An anchor loop bracket for a top strap is located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion for each seating position in the second row, and for the right outside seating position in the third row.
Suburban/Yukon XL Models Without Rear Seats
Anchor the top strap to this bracket. Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself.
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Suburban/Yukon XL Second Row Seat
Suburban/Yukon XL Third Row Seat
Utility Second Row Seat
Utility models: A child restraint with a top strap should only be used in the second row. Don’t use a child restraint with a top strap in the right front passenger’s position or in the third row, because there’s no place to anchor the top strap. An anchor loop bracket for a top strap is located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion for each seating position in the second row.
Anchor the top strap to this bracket. Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself.
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Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position
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. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Put the restraint on the seat.
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4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out
of the retractor to set the lock.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position
5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the
retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
6. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
You’ll be using the lap belt. 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. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.
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1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch
plate and pulling it along the belt.
2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you
push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
6. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
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To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
Don’t use child restraints in this position. The restraints won’t work properly.
Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:
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CAUTION:
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat.
Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger
air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” in the Index.) 2. Put the restraint on the seat.
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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. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the
retractor to set the lock.
6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the
retractor while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it 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.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
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Larger Children
If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. D Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out
in a crash.
D Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other
people who are.
Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts.
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CAUTION:
Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.
Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?
A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but
be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in a seat that has a lap belt, if your vehicle has one.
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CAUTION:
Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.
Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.
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Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.
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Section 2 Features and Controls
Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.
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Keys Door Locks Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) Theft Content Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped) PasslockR New Vehicle “Break In” Ignition Positions Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) Automatic Transmission Operation Four-Wheel Drive (If Equipped) Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Out of PARK (P) Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust
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Running Your Engine While You’re Parked Level Control (If Equipped) Autoridet (If Equipped) Locking Rear Axle Windows Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Exterior Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments HomeLinkR Transmitter (If Equipped) OnStarR System (If Equipped) The Instrument Panel - Your Information System Instrument Panel Cluster Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators Message Center
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Keys
CAUTION:
Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
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Your vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition and all door locks.
Door Locks
CAUTION:
Your vehicle may also have a key that locks and unlocks the center floor console only (if equipped).
If you ever lose your keys, your dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining replacements.
Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.
There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. Use the keyless entry system (if equipped) or use the door key. You can also use your key.
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From the inside, to lock the door, slide the lever rearward. To unlock the door, slide the lever forward.
If your vehicle has this power door lock switch, press the bottom of the switch on either front door to lock all the doors at once.
Power Door Locks (If Equipped)
Press the top of the switch to unlock all the doors at once.
If your vehicle has this power door lock switch, press the raised side of the switch, marked “L” on either front door to lock all the doors at once.
On the passenger side of the rear cargo door or liftgate opening trim there is a power lock switch which can be used to lock or unlock all of the doors.
Press the recessed side of the switch marked “U” to unlock all the doors at once.
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If the rear lock switch is pressed with the rear doors open, all of the doors will lock five seconds after the cargo doors are closed. The power door locks will operate at any time without the ignition being on. Operating the power locks may interact with the theft-deterrent system (if equipped). See “Content Theft-Deterrent” in the Index. Programmable Automatic Door Locks Your vehicle is equipped with an auto lock/unlock feature which enables you to program your power door locks. Your vehicle left the factory programmed to have the automatic lock feature lock all the doors when the vehicle speed is greater than 15 mph (24 km/h) for two seconds, and then unlock all the doors once the key is removed from the ignition. The following instructions detail how to program your door locks.
To enter the program mode you need to: 1. Beginning with the ignition in OFF, pull back on the
turn signal/multifunction lever all the way toward you and hold it while you perform the next step.
2. Turn your key to ON and OFF twice. Then, with the
key in OFF, release the turn signal/multifunction lever. Once you do this, you will hear the lock switch lock and unlock.
3. You are now ready to program the automatic door
locks. Select one of the following four programming options and follow the instructions. You will have ten seconds to begin programming. If you exceed the ten second limit, the locks will automatically lock and unlock to indicate you have left the program mode. If this occurs, repeat the procedure beginning with step 1. You can exit the program mode any time by turning the ignition to ON (the locks will automatically lock and unlock to indicate you are leaving the program mode). If the lock/unlock switches are not pressed while in the programming mode, the auto lock/unlock setting will not be modified.
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The following is a list of the available programming options: D All doors lock/Only the driver’s door unlocks:
Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel once and then the unlock side once.
D All doors lock/All doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel once, and then the unlock side twice (this is the factory setting). D All doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel once, and then the unlock side three times.
D No doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel twice. This turns off the automatic lock feature.
For more information, see your dealer.
Lockout Prevention This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver’s door will unlock. Child Security Locks (If Equipped)
With this feature, you can lock the rear side doors so they cannot be opened from the inside by passengers.
Move the button forward to engage the security feature. Move the button rearward to return the door locks to normal operation.
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Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and unlock your doors from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 100 feet (30 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: D Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.
D 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.
D Check to determine if battery replacement or
resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions that follow.
D If you’re still having trouble, see your dealer or a
qualified technician for service.
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Operation UNLOCK: Pressing this button once will unlock the driver’s door. The parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will come on. The ground illumination lamps will come on if so equipped. Pressing UNLOCK again within three seconds will cause the remaining doors to unlock. The parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will come on. LOCK: Pressing this button once will lock all of the doors. Wait one second, then press LOCK again and the horn will chirp. Operating the keyless entry transmitter may interact with the theft-deterrent system. See “Content-Theft Deterrent” in the Index.
Remote Panic Alarm When the button with the horn symbol on the keyless entry transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to 30 seconds. This can be turned off by pressing the horn button again, waiting for 30 seconds, or starting the vehicle.
Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters matched to it. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.
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NOTICE:
When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.
To replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter:
1. Insert a dime in the slot between the covers of the
transmitter housing near the key ring hole. Remove the bottom by twisting the dime.
2. Remove and replace the battery with a three-volt
CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up.
3. Align the covers and snap them together. 4. Resynchronize the transmitter. 5. Check the operation of the transmitter.
Resynchronization Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal that has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal from the transmitter. To resynchronize your transmitter, stand close to your vehicle and press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter at the same time for seven seconds. The door locks should cycle to confirm synchronization. If the locks do not cycle, see your dealer for service.
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Liftgate Caution
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to drive with the liftgate glass, liftgate or rear doors open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the liftgate glass, liftgate or rear doors open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the liftgate glass, liftgate or rear doors: D Make sure all other windows are shut. D Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
system to its highest speed with the setting on MAX A/C. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index.
D If you have air outlets on or under the
instrument panel, open them all the way.
See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.
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Liftgate Glass and Liftgate To open a mechanical lock system from the outside, insert the key into the lock and turn it counterclockwise to unlock the glass and liftgate. The liftgate glass can be opened using the pushbutton on the liftgate after the doors have been unlocked. This can be done by using either the power door locks or the remote keyless entry system. To open the entire liftgate, lift the handle located in the center of the door. To lock a power lock system from the outside, insert the key into the lock button and turn clockwise. All doors will lock. You may also use the keyless entry system or the power door locks to lock the liftgate and liftgate glass. Panel Doors To open the rear panel doors, you must open the passenger’s side panel door first. If the door is locked, insert your door key in the lock and turn it counterclockwise to unlock it. To open the passenger’s side panel door, pull on the handle and pull the door open.
To open the driver’s side panel door, first open the passenger’s side door. Then, pull the handle on the left door edge out and pull the door open. To close the doors, close the driver’s side door first. After securely closing the door, close the passenger’s side door. Make sure both doors are latched securely. To lock the rear doors from outside the vehicle, put your key in the lock and turn it clockwise. If you have power door locks, you can lock the side doors as well as the rear doors from inside the vehicle. For more information, see “Power Door Locks” earlier in this section. Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this.
Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transmission. Also remember to lock the doors. If the key is in the ignition, with any door open, and you try to lock your doors with the power door locks, the driver’s door will not stay locked. This will help to keep you from locking your keys in the vehicle. Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? D Put your valuables in a storage area, like your
glove box.
D Valuables can be locked in the center floor console. D If your vehicle has a remote keyless entry system,
take the transmitter with you.
D Lock all the doors except the driver’s.
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Content Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a Content Theft-Deterrent alarm system.
With this system, the SECURITY message will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off).
This message reminds you to activate the theft-deterrent system. Here’s how to do it: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or the
remote keyless entry transmitter. The SECURITY message should come on and stay on. If using the remote keyless entry transmitter, the door does not need to be open.
3. Close all doors. The SECURITY message should go off after approximately 15 seconds. The alarm is not armed until the SECURITY message goes off.
If a door is opened without the key or the remote keyless entry transmitter, the alarm will go off. Your vehicle’s headlamps will flash and the horn will sound for about two minutes, then will turn off to save the battery power. Remember, the theft-deterrent system won’t activate if you lock the doors with a key or use the manual door lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock switch with the door open, or with the remote keyless entry transmitter. You should also remember that you can start your vehicle with the correct ignition key if the alarm has been set off. Here’s how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident: D If you don’t want to activate the theft-deterrent
system, the vehicle should be locked with the door key after the doors are closed.
D Always unlock a door with a key, or use the remote keyless entry transmitter. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm if the system has been armed.
If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any door with the key. You can also turn off the alarm by pressing UNLOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter or by placing the key in the ignition and turning it to START.
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Testing the Alarm The alarm can be tested by following these steps: 1. From inside the vehicle, lower the driver’s window
and open the driver’s door.
2. Activate the system by locking the doors with the power door lock switch while the door is open, or with the remote keyless entry transmitter.
3. Get out of the vehicle, close the door and wait for the
SECURITY message to go out.
4. Then reach in through the window, unlock the door with the manual door lock and open the door. This should set off the alarm.
If the alarm does not sound when it should but the vehicle’s headlamps flash, check to see if the horn works. The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse, see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. If the alarm does not sound or the vehicle’s headlamps do not flash, the vehicle should be serviced by an authorized service center.
PasslockR Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock theft-deterrent system. Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. Passlock enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a valid key. If a correct key is not used or the ignition lock cylinder is tampered with, fuel is disabled. If the engine stalls and the SECURITY message flashes, wait until the light stops flashing before trying to restart the engine. Remember to release the key from START as soon as the engine starts. If the engine is running and the SECURITY message comes on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the engine off. However, your Passlock system is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock at this time. You may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). See your dealer for service. In an emergency, call the GM Roadside Assistance Center. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index.
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New Vehicle “Break-In”
NOTICE:
Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: D Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or
Ignition Positions You can use your key to turn your ignition switch to five different positions.
less for the first 500 miles (805 km).
D Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts.
D Avoid making hard stops for the first
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings.
D Don’t tow a trailer during break-in.
See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.
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ACCESSORY (A): ACCESSORY lets you use things like the radio, power windows and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. Push in the key and turn it toward you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key. LOCK (B): This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transmission. It’s a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK.
OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like LOCK. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is off (for example, if your vehicle is being pushed). RUN (D): This is the position for driving. START (E): This position starts your engine.
NOTICE:
If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. But turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.
Retained Accessory Power (If Equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature which will allow certain features on your vehicle to continue to work up to 20 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFF. Your radio, power windows and overhead console will work when the ignition key is in RUN or ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from RUN to OFF, these features will continue to work for up to 20 minutes or until a door is opened. Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.
NOTICE:
Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
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When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0_F or -18_C), do this: 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the
ignition key to START and hold it there. When the engine starts, let go of the key. Use the accelerator pedal to maintain engine speed, if you have to, until your engine has run for a while. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key and accelerator. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.
1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn the
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.
NOTICE:
Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.
2.
2. If it doesn’t start within 10 seconds, push the
accelerator pedal all the way to the floor, while you hold the ignition key in START. When the engine starts, let go of the key and let up on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.
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NOTICE:
Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.
Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)
In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
The cord is located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, near the power steering fluid reservoir.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.
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CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.
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Automatic Transmission Operation
There are several different positions for your shift lever. Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission and features an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument panel cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of PARK (P). This means that if your key is in OFF, rather than LOCK, there will be a small current drain on your battery which could discharge your battery over a period of time. If you have to leave your key in the ignition in OFF for an extended period, it is recommended that you remove the IGN 0 fuse from the instrument panel fuse block. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.
PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.
CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
If you have four-wheel drive, your vehicle will be free to roll -- even if your shift lever is in PARK (P) -- if your transfer case is in NEUTRAL (N). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear, two-wheel high (2H) or four-wheel high (4H) or four-wheel low (4L) -- not in NEUTRAL (N). See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.
NOTICE:
Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transmission. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.
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To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your two-wheel drive vehicle is being towed.
CAUTION:
Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.
NOTICE:
Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty.
DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: D Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your
accelerator pedal about halfway down.
D Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the
accelerator all the way down.
You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. DRIVE (D) can be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or for off-road driving. You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often.
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THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however it offers more power and lower fuel economy than DRIVE (D). SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. If you manually select SECOND (2) in a light duty automatic transmission, the transmission will drive in second gear. You may use this feature for reducing the speed of the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (1) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.
NOTICE:
If your rear wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transmission. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transmission. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.
On cold days, approximately 32_F (0_C) or colder, your transmission is designed to shift differently until the engine reaches normal operating temperature. This is intended to improve heater performance.
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Tow/Haul Mode Selector Switch
Your vehicle is equipped with a tow/haul mode. The selector switch is located on the end of the column shift lever. You can use this feature to assist when towing or hauling a heavy load. See “Tow/Haul Mode” in the Index for more information. The Tow/Haul Mode also interacts with the Autoridet feature, if your vehicle is so equipped, to enhance the ride when trailering or with a loaded vehicle. See “Autoridet” in the Index.
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Four-Wheel Drive (If Equipped) If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can send your engine’s driving power to all four wheels for extra traction. To get the most satisfaction out of four-wheel drive, you must be familiar with its operation. Read the part that follows before using four-wheel drive. See the appropriate text for the transfer case in your vehicle.
NOTICE:
Driving in the 4-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or 4-WHEEL LOW (4L) positions for a long time on dry or wet pavement could shorten the life of your vehicle’s drivetrain.
Front Axle Locking Feature The front axle locks and unlocks automatically when you shift the transfer case. Some delay for the axle to lock or unlock is normal.
Automatic Transfer Case (If Equipped)
The transfer case switches are located to the left of the instrument panel cluster.
Use these switches to shift into and out of four-wheel drive.
You can choose among four driving settings: 2HI: This setting is used for driving in most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. This setting also provides the best fuel economy.
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AUTO 4WD: This setting is ideal for use when road conditions are variable. When driving your vehicle in AUTO 4WD, the front axle is engaged, but the vehicle’s power is sent only to the rear wheels. When the vehicle senses a loss of traction, the system will automatically engage four-wheel drive. Driving in this mode results in slightly lower fuel economy than 2HI. 4HI: Use 4HI when you need extra traction, such as on snowy or icy roads or in most off-road situations. This setting also engages your front axle to help drive your vehicle. This is the best setting to use when plowing snow. 4LO: This setting also engages your front axle and delivers extra torque. You may never need 4LO. It sends maximum power to all four wheels. You might choose 4LO if you are driving off-road in deep sand, deep mud, deep snow and climbing or descending steep hills.
CAUTION:
Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See “Parking Brake” in the Index.
NEUTRAL: Shift the vehicle’s transfer case to NEUTRAL only when towing your vehicle. See “Recreational Vehicle Towing” or “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index for more information. Indicator lights in the switches show which setting you are in. The indicator lights will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition and one will stay on. If the lights do not come on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. An indicator light will flash while shifting the transfer case. It will remain illuminated when the shift is complete. If for some reason the transfer case cannot make a requested shift, it will return to the last chosen setting.
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If the SERVICE 4WD light stays on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. See “Service 4WD” in the Index for further information.
Shifting to 4HI or AUTO 4WD Press and release the 4HI or AUTO 4WD switch. This can be done at any speed (except when shifting from 4LO), and the indicator light will flash while shifting. It will remain illuminated when the shift is completed.
Shifting to 2HI Press and release the 2HI switch. This can be done at any speed (except when shifting from 4LO).
Shifting to 4LO To shift to 4LO, the ignition must be in RUN and the vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). The preferred method for shifting into 4LO is to have your vehicle moving 1 to 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h). Press and release the 4LO switch. You must wait for the 4LO indicator light to stop flashing and remain illuminated before shifting your transmission in gear.
If the 4LO switch is pressed when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the 4LO indicator light will flash for 30 seconds and not complete the shift unless your vehicle is moving less than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) and the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N). After 30 seconds the transfer case will return to the setting last chosen.
Shifting Out of 4LO To shift from 4LO to 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI your vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N) and the ignition in RUN. The preferred method for shifting out of 4LO is to have your vehicle moving 1 to 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h). Press and release the 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI switch. You must wait for the 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI indicator light to stop flashing and remain illuminated before shifting your transmission into gear. If the 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI switch is pressed when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI indicator light will flash for 30 seconds but will not complete the shift unless your vehicle is moving less than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) and the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N).
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Shifting Out of NEUTRAL To shift out of NEUTRAL: 1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. 2. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N) and turn the
ignition to RUN with the engine off.
3. Press the button for the desired transfer case shift
position (2HI, 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 4LO).
4. After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL
the red light will go out.
5. You may start the engine and shift the transmission
to the desired position.
Shifting to NEUTRAL To shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL, first make sure the vehicle is parked so that it will not roll: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Start the vehicle or turn the ignition to RUN. 3. Connect the vehicle to the towing vehicle. 4. Put the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). 5. Shift the transfer case to 2HI. 6. Simultaneously press and hold the 2HI and 4LO buttons for 10 seconds. The red NEUTRAL light will come on when the transfer case shift to NEUTRAL is complete.
7. Shift the transmission to REVERSE (R) for one
second, then shift the transmission to DRIVE (D) for one second.
8. Turn the ignition to OFF. 9. Place the transmission shift lever in PARK (P). 10. Release the parking brake prior to towing.
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Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will flash. A chime will activate when the parking brake is applied and the vehicle is moving at least 3 mph (5 km/h) for at least three seconds.
To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the bottom edge of the lever, located above the parking brake pedal, marked BRAKE RELEASE, to release the parking brake. If the ignition is on when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off.
NOTICE:
Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.
If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.
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Shifting Into PARK (P)
CAUTION:
1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and
set the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like this:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. With four-wheel drive if your transfer case is in NEUTRAL (N), your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N). If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.
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D Pull the shift lever toward you.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. If you have four-wheel drive and your transfer case is in NEUTRAL (N), your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N). And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.
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D Move the lever up as far as it will go.
3. Be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not
in NEUTRAL (N).
4. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 5. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).
Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transmission” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way up into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then, move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to the OFF ignition position. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift the vehicle to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear
you want.
5. Have the system fixed as soon as you can.
If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and the parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you move the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P). Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).
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Parking Over Things That Burn
Engine Exhaust
CAUTION:
Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: D Your exhaust system sounds strange
or different.
D Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. D Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. D Your vehicle was damaged when driving over
high points on the road or over road debris.
D Repairs weren’t done correctly. D Your vehicle or exhaust system had been
modified improperly.
If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: D Drive it only with all the windows down to
blow out any CO; and
D Have your vehicle fixed immediately.
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CAUTION:
Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if ever you have to, here are some things to know.
CAUTION:
Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)
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CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you’ve left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). Four-wheel drive vehicles with the transfer case in NEUTRAL (N) will allow the vehicle to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N). Always set your parking brake.
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.
Level Control (If Equipped) Self-Adjusting The self-adjusting rear suspension is available on C/K 1500 vehicles and is available with the premium smooth ride suspension package. This type of level control will provide a leveled riding position as well as improved handling under a variety of passenger and loading conditions. A hydraulic pump inside each rear shock absorber raises the rear of the vehicle to the proper height, based on inputs from the road surface, while the vehicle is being driven. It takes approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) of driving for the leveling to complete, depending on the road surface conditions. If the loaded vehicle is not moved for approximately twelve hours, the leveling system may bleed down to a lower height. This can be especially apparent is a trailer is left attached to a parked vehicle for long periods of time. The vehicle must be driven to re-level the vehicle. If a self-equalizing hitch is being used, the vehicle should be driven approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) with the trailer prior to adjusting (leveling) the hitch.
Automatic Level Control The automatic level control rear suspension is available on C/K 1500 vehicles and comes as a part of the Autoridet suspension. This type of level control is fully automatic and will provide a better leveled riding position as well as better handling under a variety of passenger and loading conditions. An air compressor connected to the rear shocks will raise or lower the rear of the vehicle to maintain proper vehicle height. The system is activated when the ignition key is turned to RUN and will automatically adjust vehicle height thereafter. The system may exhaust (lower vehicle height) for up to ten minutes after the ignition key has been turned to OFF. You may hear the air compressor operating when the height is being adjusted. If a self-equalizing hitch is being used, it is recommended to allow the shocks to inflate, thereby leveling the vehicle prior to adjusting the hitch.
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Windows Manual Windows Turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower manual windows. Power Windows (If Equipped) If you have the optional power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors.
Autoridet (If Equipped) The Autoridet feature will provide a superior vehicle ride and handling under a variety of passenger and loading conditions. The system is fully automatic and uses a computer controller to continuously monitor vehicle speed, wheel to body position, lift/dive and steering position of the vehicle. The controller then sends signals to each shock absorber to independently adjust the damping level to provide the optimum vehicle ride. Autoride also interacts with the Tow/Haul switch that, when engaged, will provide additional control of the shock absorbers. This additional control results in better ride and handling characteristics when the vehicle is loaded or towing a trailer. See “Tow/Haul Mode” in the Index for more information. Locking Rear Axle If your vehicle has this feature, your locking rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction and the other does, this feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle.
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The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger windows as well. Your power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to ACCESSORY or RUN or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is present. See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index. Press the rear of the switch with the power window symbol on it to lower the window or the front to raise it. The driver’s window also has an express down feature that allows the window to be lowered without holding the switch. Press and hold the rear of the window switch for one second to activate the express down mode. The express down mode can be canceled at any time by pressing the opposite side of the switch. To open the window partway, lightly tap the switch until the window is at the desired position. If you have power windows, the power window switch has a lockout feature. This feature prevents the rear windows from operating except from the driver’s position when the front driver’s side button labeled WINDOW LOCK is engaged. When the button is not engaged, the rear power windows will operate again.
Horn To sound the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel. Tilt Wheel (If Equipped)
The tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive.
You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever located on the lower left of the column. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.
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Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
The lever on the left side of the steering column
includes your:
D Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator
D Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer
D Flash-to-Pass
D Windshield Wipers
D Windshield Washer
D Cruise Control
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Turn Signal and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.
An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.
To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it. If you move the lever all the way up or down, and the arrow flashes at twice the normal rate, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers may not see your turn signal.
If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and a blown fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index).
Turn Signal On Chime If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound at each flash of the turn signal. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the off position. Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low to high beam or high to low beam, pull the multifunction lever all the way toward you. Then release it.
When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel also will be on.
Flash-To-Pass Feature This feature allows you to use your high-beam headlamps to signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. It works even if your headlamps are off. To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, but not so far that you hear it click. If your headlamps are off or on low-beam, your high-beam headlamps will turn on. They’ll stay on as long as you hold the lever toward you and the high-beam indicator on the instrument panel will come on. Release the lever to turn the high-beam headlamps off.
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For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one wipe. If you want more wipes, hold the band on MIST longer. You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to LO, the shorter the delay. For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the LO position. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, move the band to the OFF position. Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become worn or damaged, get new blades or blade inserts.
Windshield Wipers
You control the windshield wipers by turning the band with the wiper symbol on it.
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Windshield Washer There is a paddle marked with the windshield washer symbol at the top of the multifunction lever. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed.
CAUTION:
In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.
Rear Window Washer/Wiper
This switch is located on the instrument panel.
To turn the rear wiper on, turn the switch to either 1 or 2. For long delayed wiping, turn the switch to 1. For short delayed wiping, turn the switch to 2. To turn the wiper off, turn the switch to 0. To wash the window, press the knob. The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle as the windshield washer. However, the rear window washer will run out of fluid before the windshield washer. If you can wash your windshield but not your rear windows, check the fluid level.
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Cruise Control
With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h).
If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will disengage.
CAUTION:
D Cruise control can be dangerous where you
can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.
D Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery
roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control. Don’t use cruise control on slippery roads.
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Setting Cruise Control
CAUTION:
If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control.
1. Move the cruise control switch to ON. 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Press in the SET button at the end of the lever and
release it.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
United States
Canada
The CRUISE light on the instrument panel will illuminate when the cruise control is engaged.
Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, disengages the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A briefly. You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there. If you continue to hold the switch at R/A, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don’t hold the switch at R/A.
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Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed: D Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed.
Press the SET button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.
D Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to R/A briefly. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control D Press and hold the SET button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it.
D To slow down in very small amounts, press the SET button briefly. Each time you do this, you’ll go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.
Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier.
Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may want to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills.
Ending Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control: D Step lightly on the brake pedal. D Move the cruise control switch to OFF.
Erasing Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased.
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Exterior Lamps
Your parking lamp and headlamp switch is on the driver’s side of your instrument panel. Turn the knob clockwise to the parking lamps symbol to manually turn on: D Parking Lamps D Sidemarker Lamps D Taillamps D License Plate Lamps D Instrument Panel Lights
Turn the knob clockwise to the master lamps symbol to turn on all the lamps listed as well as the headlamps. Turn the knob all the way counterclockwise to turn off your lamps and put the system into automatic headlamp mode. Rotate the thumbwheel next to the knob up to adjust instrument panel lights. Rotate the thumbwheel up to the first notch to return the radio and gearshift indicator LED display to full intensity when the headlamps or parking lamps are on. To turn on the dome lamps, with the vehicle doors closed, rotate the thumbwheel up to the second notch position. You can switch your headlamps from high to low-beam by pulling on the turn signal/high-beam lever. A circuit breaker protects your headlamps. If you have an electrical overload, your headlamps will flicker on and off. Have your headlamp wiring checked right away if this happens. Automatic Headlamp System When it is dark enough outside, your automatic headlamp system will turn on your headlamps at the normal brightness along with other lamps such as the taillamps, sidemarker, parking lamps and the instrument panel lights. The radio lights will also be dim.
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Your vehicle is equipped with a light sensor located on the top of the instrument panel in the defroster grille. Be sure it is not covered, or the system will be on whenever the ignition is on. The system may also turn on your headlamps when driving through a parking garage, heavy overcast weather or a tunnel. This is normal. There is a delay in the transition between the daytime and nighttime operation of the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) and the automatic headlamp systems so that driving under bridges or bright overhead street lights does not affect the system. The DRL and automatic headlamp system will only be affected when the light sensor sees a change in lighting lasting longer than the delay. To idle your vehicle with the automatic headlamp system off, set the parking brake while the ignition is off. Then start your vehicle. The automatic headlamp system will stay off until you release the parking brake. As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it. You may be able to turn off your Automatic Headlamp System. See “Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)” later in this section for more information.
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Lamps On Reminder A reminder chime will sound when your headlamps or parking lamps are manually turned on and your ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY. To disable the chime, rotate the thumbwheel all the way down. In the automatic mode, the headlamps turn off once the ignition key is in OFF. Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. The DRL system will come on when: D the ignition is on, D the headlamp switch is in automatic headlamp mode, D the automatic transmission is not in PARK (P), D the light sensor determines it is daytime and D the parking brake is released. When the DRL are on, only your DRL lamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be on. The instrument panel won’t be lit up either.
When it begins to get dark, the automatic headlamp system will switch from DRL to the headlamps or the last chosen headlamp setting that was used. When you turn the headlamp switch off, the headlamps will go off, and your DRL lamps will illuminate, provided it is not dark outside. To idle an automatic transmission equipped vehicle with the DRL off, set the parking brake. Shifting the transmission into PARK (P) will also allow you to idle the vehicle with the DRL off. The DRL will stay off until you release the parking brake or shift the transmission out of PARK (P). The following procedure applies only to vehicles first sold in the United States, and it does not apply to some early production vehicles. When necessary, you may turn off the Automatic Headlamp System and the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) feature by following the steps below. When system is turned off the headlights will not automatically come on when it becomes dark outside. As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it. 1. With the ignition in the RUN position. 2. Press the DOME OVERRIDE button four times
within six seconds. A chime will sound informing you the Automatic Headlamp System and Daytime Running Lamps are off.
3. The system will revert back to the automatic mode
when the DOME OVERRIDE button is again pushed four times within six seconds (chime will sound), or when the ignition is turned off and on again.
Fog Lamps (If Equipped) If you have fog lamps, use them for better vision in foggy or misty conditions. Your parking lamps and/or low-beam headlamps must be on for your fog lamps to work.
The fog lamp switch is located on the left side of the instrument panel.
Press the switch to turn the fog lamps on. Press the switch again to turn them off. An indicator light will glow in the switch when the fog lamps are on. Remember, fog lamps alone will not give off as much light as your headlamps. Never use your fog lamps in the dark without turning on your headlamps.
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The fog lamps will go off whenever your high-beam headlamps come on. When the high beams go off, the fog lamps will come on again. The fog lamps will be cancelled after the ignition is turned off. If you still want to use the fog lamps after you restart the vehicle, you will need to press the fog lamp switch again. Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp Switch (If Equipped)
This switch includes wiring provisions for a dealer or a qualified service center to install an auxiliary roof lamp. This switch is located on the center of the instrument panel near the comfort controls.
When the switch wiring is connected to an auxiliary roof mounted lamp, pressing the button will activate the lamp and illuminate an indicator light near the button. Pressing the button again will turn off the roof mounted lamp.
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If your vehicle has this switch, your vehicle may have the Snow Plow Prep Package. For further information see “Snow Plow Prep Package” in the Index. Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control The instrument panel intensity control is located to the right of the headlamp switch. Rotate the thumbwheel up to increase the intensity of the instrument panel lights. To turn on the dome lamps, with the vehicle doors closed, rotate the thumbwheel all the way up. Rotate the thumbwheel down to decrease the intensity of the lights. Exit Lighting With exit lighting, the interior lamps will come on when you remove the key from the ignition. The lights will not come on if the DOME OVERRIDE button is pressed in. Illuminated Entry Your vehicle is equipped with an illuminated entry feature. When the doors are opened, the dome lamps will come on if the DOME OVERRIDE button is in the “out” position. If the DOME OVERRIDE button is pressed in, the lamps will not come on.
Front Reading Lamps (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has reading lamps, press the button located next to the lamp to turn them on. The lamps can be adjusted to point in the direction you want.
Press the button again to turn the lamp off.
Your vehicle may also have reading lamps in other locations. To turn on or off, press the button located next to the lamp. The lamps are fixed and cannot be adjusted.
Dome Lamps The dome lamps will come on when you open a door. You can also turn the dome lamps on by rotating the thumbwheel, located next to the parking/headlamps knob, all the way up. In this position, the dome lamps will remain on whether a door is opened or closed. You can use the DOME OVERRIDE button, located below the parking/headlamp knob, to set the dome lamps to come on automatically when a door is opened, or remain off. To turn the lamps off, press the button into the “in” position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will remain off when the doors are open. To return the lamps to automatic operation, press the button again and return it to the “out” position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will come on when you open a door. Battery Run-Down Protection This feature shuts off the dome, reading, glove box and underhood lamps if they are left on for more than 20 minutes when the ignition is off. This will keep your battery from running down.
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Mirrors Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror
Electrochromic Inside Rearview Mirror with Compass (If Equipped) When on, an electrochromic mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark.
Pull the tab under the mirror toward you to reduce glare from headlamps behind you after dark. Push the tab away from you for normal daytime operation.
The mirror also includes an eight-point compass display in the upper right corner of the mirror face. When on, the compass automatically calibrates as the vehicle is driven.
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Compass Operation Press the COMP switch once briefly to turn the compass on or off. When the ignition and the compass feature are on, the compass will show two character boxes for approximately two seconds. After two seconds, the mirror will display the compass heading. When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause the liquid cleaner to enter the mirror housing.
Compass Calibration The compass may need calibration if: D After five seconds, the display does not show a compass heading (“N” for North, for example), there may be a strong magnetic field interfering with the compass. Such interference may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item.
D The compass does not display the correct heading
and the compass zone variance is set correctly.
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Mirror Operation The right button located at the bottom of the mirror turns the electrochromic mirror on and off. The LED, located to the right of the button, will come on when the electrochromic mirror is turned on. To turn the mirror on, press and hold the MIRROR button for three seconds. The mirror will darken and remain dark until the button is