2012 GMC Sierra Owners Manual

CD/DVD To select tracks on a CD/DVD: Press and release w or c / x to go to the next or previous track.

Selecting Tracks on an iPod or USB Device (Vehicles without a Navigation System) 1. Press and hold w or c / x

while listening to a song until the contents of the current folder display on the radio display.

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2. Press and release w or c / x to scroll up or down the list, then press and hold w , or press ¨ to play the highlighted track.

Navigating Folders on an iPod or USB Device (Vehicles without a Navigation System): 1. Press and hold w or c / x

while listening to a song until the contents of the current folder display on the radio display.

2. Press and hold c / x to go back to the previous folder list.

3. Press and release w or c / x

to scroll up or down the list.

To select a folder, press and hold w, or press ¨ when the folder is highlighted. To go back further in the folder list, press and hold c / x.

Navigating an iPod or USB Device on the Main Audio Screen (Vehicles with a Navigation System) 1. Press and release w or c / x

to select the next or previous track within the selected category.

2. Press and hold w or c / x to move quickly through the tracks. 3. Press and release ¨ to move up

one track within the selected category.

Navigating an iPod or USB Device on the Music Navigator Screen (Vehicles with a Navigation System) 1. Press and release w or c / x

to select the next or previous track within the selected category.

2. Press and hold w or c / x to move quickly through the tracks within the selected category.

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3. Press and release ¨ to move up

one track within the selected category.

b / g (Mute/Push to Talk): Press to silence the vehicle speakers only. Press again to turn the sound on. For vehicles with Bluetooth or OnStar systems, press and hold for longer than two seconds to interact with those systems. See Bluetooth on page 7‑48 and OnStar Overview on page 14‑1 for more information. SRCE (Source/Voice Recognition): Press to switch between the radio and CD, and for equipped vehicles, the DVD, front auxiliary, and rear auxiliary. For vehicles with the navigation system, press and hold this button for longer than one second to initiate voice recognition. See “Voice Recognition” in the Navigation System manual for more information.

¨ (Seek): Press to go to the next radio station while in AM, FM, or XM™. For vehicles with or without a navigation system: Press ¨ to go to the next track or chapter while sourced to the CD or DVD slot. Press ¨ to select a track or a folder when navigating folders on an iPod or USB device. For vehicles with a navigation system: 1. Press and hold ¨ until a beep is

heard, to place the radio into SCAN mode. A station will play for five seconds before moving to the next station.

2. To stop the SCAN function,

press ¨ again.

While listening to a CD/DVD, press and hold ¨ to quickly move forward through the tracks. Release to stop on the desired track.

+ e : Press to increase volume.

− e : Press to decrease volume.

Horn To sound the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel.

Windshield Wiper/Washer

The front wiper control is located on the turn and lane‐change lever. The windshield wipers are controlled by turning the band with z on it.

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8 (Mist): For a single wipe, turn to 8, then release. For several wipes, hold the band on 8 longer. 9 (Off): Turns the windshield wipers off. 6 (Adjustable Interval Wipes): Turn the band up for more frequent wipes or down for less frequent wipes. 6 (Low Speed): Slow wipes. ? (High Speed): Fast wipes. Clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. Damaged wiper blades should be replaced. See Wiper Blade Replacement on page 10‑36. Heavy snow or ice can overload the wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools down.

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Windshield Washer

{ WARNING

In freezing weather, do not use the washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.

L (Washer Fluid): Push the paddle marked with the windshield washer symbol at the top of the multifunction lever, to spray washer fluid on the windshield. The wipers clear the window and then either stop or return to the preset speed.

Compass The vehicle may have a compass in the Driver Information Center (DIC).

Compass Zone The zone is set to zone eight upon leaving the factory. Your dealer will set the correct zone for your location.

Under certain circumstances, such as during a long-distance, cross-country trip or moving to a new state or province, it will be necessary to compensate for compass variance by resetting the zone through the DIC if the zone is not set correctly. Compass variance is the difference between the earth's magnetic north and true geographic north. If the compass is not set to the zone where you live, the compass may give false readings. The compass must be set to the variance zone in which the vehicle is traveling. To adjust for compass variance, use the following procedure:

Compass Variance (Zone) Procedure 1. Do not set the compass zone

when the vehicle is moving. Only set it when the vehicle is in P (Park).

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Press the vehicle information button until PRESS V TO CHANGE COMPASS ZONE displays. Or, if the vehicle does not have DIC buttons, press the trip odometer reset stem until CHANGE COMPASS ZONE displays.

2. Find the vehicle's current

location and variance zone number on the map. Zones 1 through 15 are available.

3. Press the set/reset button to scroll through and select the appropriate variance zone.

4. Press the trip/fuel button

until the vehicle heading, for example, N for North, is displayed in the DIC. Or, if the vehicle does not have DIC buttons, press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for two seconds to select the next available variance zone. Repeat this step until the appropriate variance zone is displayed. If calibration is necessary, calibrate the compass. See “Compass Calibration Procedure” following.

5.

Compass Calibration The compass can be manually calibrated. Only calibrate the compass in a magnetically clean and safe location, such as an open parking lot, where driving the vehicle in circles is not a danger.

It is suggested to calibrate away from tall buildings, utility wires, manhole covers, or other industrial structures, if possible. If CAL should ever appear in the DIC display, the compass should be calibrated. If the DIC display does not show a heading, for example, N for North, or the heading does not change after making turns, there may be a strong magnetic field interfering with the compass. Such interference may be caused by a magnetic CB or cell phone antenna mount, a magnetic emergency light, magnetic note pad holder, or any other magnetic item. Turn off the vehicle, move the magnetic item, then turn on the vehicle and calibrate the compass.

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3. Press the set/reset button to start the compass calibration. Or, if the vehicle does not have DIC buttons, press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for two seconds to start the compass calibration. 4. The DIC will display

CALIBRATING: DRIVE IN CIRCLES. Drive the vehicle in tight circles at less than 8 km/h (5 mph) to complete the calibration. The DIC will display CALIBRATION COMPLETE for a few seconds when the calibration is complete. The DIC display will then return to the previous menu.

To calibrate the compass, use the following procedure:

Compass Calibration Procedure 1. Before calibrating the compass, make sure the compass zone is set to the variance zone in which the vehicle is located. See “Compass Variance (Zone) Procedure” earlier in this section. Do not operate any switches such as window, sunroof, climate controls, or seats during the calibration procedure.

2. Press the vehicle information

button until PRESS V TO CALIBRATE COMPASS displays. Or, if the vehicle does not have DIC buttons, press the trip odometer reset stem until CALIBRATE COMPASS displays.

Clock

AM-FM Radio and AM‐FM Radio with CD Player To set the clock: 1. Turn the ignition key to ACC/

ACCESSORY or ON/RUN, then press the O button to turn the radio on.

2. Press the H button until the hour

numbers begin to flash, then turn the f knob to increase or decrease the hour.

3. Press the H button until the

minute numbers begin to flash, then turn the f knob to increase or decrease the minutes.

4. Press the H button until the 12HR or 24HR time format begins to flash, then turn the f knob to change the time format.

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5. Press the H button again until the clock display stops flashing to set the currently displayed time, or wait until the flashing stops after five seconds and the current time displayed automatically sets.

MP3 Radios with a Single CD or a Single CD and DVD Player To adjust the time and date: 1. Turn the ignition key to ACC/

ACCESSORY or ON/RUN, then press the O button to turn the radio on.

2. Press the H button to display

HR, MIN, MM, DD, YYYY (hour, minute, month, day, and year).

3. Press the softkey located under

any one of the tabs to change that setting.

4. To increase the time or date, do

one of the following:

Press the softkey below the selected tab. Press the ¨ SEEK button. Press the \ FWD button. Turn the f knob clockwise. 5. To decrease the time or date, do

one of the following:

Press the © SEEK button. Press the s REV button. Turn the f knob counterclockwise.

To change the time default setting from 12 hour to 24 hour or to change the date default setting from month/ day/year to day/month/year: 1. Press the H button and then the softkey located below the forward arrow tab. 12H, 24H, the date MM/DD (month and day), and DD/MM (day and month) displays.

2. Press the softkey located below

the desired option.

3. Press the H button again to

apply the desired option, or let the screen time out.

MP3 Radio with a Six-Disc CD Player To set the time and date: 1. Turn the ignition key to ACC/

ACCESSORY or ON/RUN, then press the O button to turn the radio on.

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To change the time default setting from 12 hour to 24 hour or to change the date default setting from month/ day to day/month: 1. Press the MENU button

and then the softkey under the H tab.

2. Press the softkey located below the forward arrow tab. 12H, 24H, the date MM/DD (month and day), and DD/MM (day and month) displays.

3. Press the softkey located below

the desired option.

4. Press the MENU button again to

apply the desired option, or let the screen time out.

Power Outlets Accessory power outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone, MP3 player, etc. The vehicle may have two accessory power outlets located below the climate control system, or may have one accessory power outlet and one cigarette lighter. The cigarette lighter is designed to fit only in the receptacle closest to the driver. There may be another accessory power outlet in the rear cargo area. If the vehicle has a floor console, there is an accessory power outlet inside the storage bin and one on the rear of the floor console. Remove the cover to access and replace when not in use.

2. Press the MENU button and

then the softkey under the H tab to display HR, MIN, MM, DD, YYYY (hour, minute, month, day, and year).

3. Press the softkey located under

any one of the tabs to change that setting.

4. To increase the time or date, do

one of the following:

Press the softkey below the selected tab. Press the ¨ SEEK button. Press the \ FWD button. Turn the f knob clockwise. 5. To decrease the time or date, do

one of the following:

Press the © SEEK button. Press the s REV button. Turn the f knob counterclockwise.

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Certain power accessory plugs may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could overload vehicle or adapter fuses. If a problem is experienced, see your dealer. When adding electrical equipment, be sure to follow the proper installation instructions included with the equipment. See Add-On Electrical Equipment on page 9‑105. Notice: Hanging heavy equipment from the power outlet can cause damage not covered by the vehicle warranty. The power outlets are designed for accessory power plugs only, such as cell phone charge cords.

Cigarette Lighter To use the cigarette lighter, push it in all the way, and let go. When it is ready for use, the lighter pops back out. Notice: Holding a cigarette lighter in while it is heating does not let the lighter back away from the heating element when it is hot. Damage from overheating can occur to the lighter or heating element, or a fuse could be blown. Do not hold a cigarette lighter in while it is heating.

The accessory power outlets are powered, even when the ignition is in LOCK/OFF. Continuing to use power outlets while the ignition is in LOCK/OFF may cause the vehicle's battery to run down.

{ WARNING

Power is always supplied to the outlets. Do not leave electrical equipment plugged in when the vehicle is not in use because the vehicle could catch fire and cause injury or death.

Notice: Leaving electrical equipment plugged in for an extended period of time while the vehicle is off will drain the battery. Always unplug electrical equipment when not in use and do not plug in equipment that exceeds the maximum 20 ampere rating.

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Ashtrays The vehicle may have a front ashtray located near the center of the instrument panel. Pull on the door to open it. The ashtray may have a cigarette lighter. Notice: If papers, pins, or other flammable items are put in the ashtray, hot cigarettes or other smoking materials could ignite them and possibly damage the vehicle. Never put flammable items in the ashtray. To remove the ashtray, open the door and pull the ashtray bin toward you. To replace the ashtray, insert the ashtray bin inside the ashtray door and press down until it engages.

Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators Warning lights and gauges can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to the warning lights and gauges could prevent injury. Warning lights come on when there could be a problem with a vehicle function. Some warning lights come on briefly when the engine is started to indicate they are working.

Gauges can indicate when there could be a problem with a vehicle function. Often gauges and warning lights work together to indicate a problem with the vehicle. When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on while driving, or when one of the gauges shows there may be a problem, check the section that explains what to do. Follow this manual's advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly and even dangerous.

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Instruments and Controls

Instrument Cluster

English Light Duty Premium Shown. Metric, Uplevel, Base and Heavy Duty Similar.

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The hour meter displays for up to 30 seconds, or until the ignition is turned on. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑30 for more information.

Trip Odometer The trip odometer shows how far the vehicle has been driven since the trip odometer was last set to zero. Press the reset button, located on the instrument panel cluster next to the voltmeter, to toggle between the trip odometer and the regular odometer. Holding the reset button for approximately one second while the trip odometer is displayed will reset it.

To display the odometer reading with the ignition off, press the reset button. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑30 for more information.

Tachometer The tachometer displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). For a description of how Grade Braking affects vehicle speed while the Tow/Haul Mode is activated, see Tow/Haul Mode on page 9‑39 for more information. If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

For vehicles with a DURAMAX® Diesel engine, see the DURAMAX® Diesel Supplement for more information. For vehicles with a Hybrid, see the Hybrid Supplement for more information.

Speedometer The speedometer shows the vehicle's speed in either kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph).

Odometer The odometer shows how far the vehicle has been driven, in either kilometers or miles. Engine Hour Meter Display The Driver Information Center (DIC) can also display the number of hours the engine has run. To display the engine hours, turn the ignition off, then press and hold the reset button for at least four seconds.

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It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the fuel gauge indicated. For example, the gauge may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the fuel tank's capacity to fill it. The gauge goes back to empty when the ignition is turned off. If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement for more information. If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

Fuel Gauge

Metric

English

When the ignition is on, the fuel gauge shows about how much fuel is left in the fuel tank. An arrow on the fuel gauge indicates the side of the vehicle the fuel door is on. The gauge will first indicate empty before the vehicle is out of fuel, but the vehicle's fuel tank should be filled soon. When the fuel tank is low the FUEL LEVEL LOW message appears. See Fuel System Messages on page 5‑43 for more information. Here are some situations owners can experience with the fuel gauge. None of these indicate a problem with the fuel gauge. . At the gas station, the fuel pump

shuts off before the gauge reads full.

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Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

Metric

English

The engine oil pressure gauge shows the engine oil pressure in kPa (kilopascals) or psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running. Oil pressure can vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity, but if readings are outside the normal operating range, the oil pressure light comes on. See Engine Oil Pressure Light on page 5‑28 for more information.

A reading outside the normal operating range can be caused by a dangerously low oil level or some other problem causing low oil pressure. Check the vehicle's oil as soon as possible. See “OIL PRESSURE LOW STOP ENGINE” under Engine Oil Messages on page 5‑42 and Engine Oil on page 10‑7. Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance can damage the engine. Driving with the engine oil engine. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Check the oil level as soon as possible. Add oil if required, but if the oil level is within the operating range and the oil pressure is still low, have the vehicle serviced. Always follow the maintenance schedule for changing engine oil. If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement for more information.

low can also damage the

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If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge

See Engine Overheating on page 10‑22. If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

Voltmeter Gauge

Metric

English

This gauge shows the engine coolant temperature. It also provides an indicator of how hard the vehicle is working. During a majority of the operation, the gauge reads 100°C (210°F) or less. If pulling a load or going up hills, it is normal for the temperature to fluctuate and go over the 113°C (235°F) mark. If the gauge reaches the 125°C (260°F) mark, it indicates that the cooling system is working beyond its capacity.

This gauge indicates the battery voltage when the ignition is turned on. When the ignition is on, this gauge indicates the battery voltage.

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As engine speeds are increased, this condition should correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the charging system to create maximum power. The vehicle can only be driven for a short time with the readings outside the normal operating range. If the vehicle must be driven, turn off all accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner. Readings outside the normal operating range indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible.

When the engine is running, this gauge shows the condition of the charging system. The gauge can transition from a higher to lower or a lower to higher reading. This is normal. If the vehicle is operating outside the normal operating range, the charging system light comes on. See Charging System Light on page 5‑22 for more information. The voltmeter gauge may also read lower when in fuel economy mode. This is normal. Readings outside the normal operating range can also occur when a large number of electrical accessories are operating in the vehicle and the engine is left idling for an extended period. This condition is normal since the charging system is not able to provide full power at engine idle.

Safety Belt Reminders

Driver Safety Belt Reminder Light There is a driver safety belt reminder light on the instrument panel cluster.

When the vehicle is started, this light flashes and a chime may come on to remind the driver to fasten their safety belt. Then the light stays on solid until the belt is buckled. This cycle my continue several times if the driver remains or becomes unbuckled while the vehicle is moving. If the driver safety belt is buckled, neither the light nor the chime comes on.

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Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light

For vehicles equipped with the passenger safety belt reminder light, several seconds after the engine is started, a chime sounds for several seconds to remind the front passenger to buckle their safety belt. The passenger safety belt light flashes and then stays on solid until the belt is buckled. This cycle continues several times if the passenger remains or becomes unbuckled while the vehicle is moving. If the passenger safety belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the light comes on.

The front passenger safety belt warning light and chime may turn on if an object is put on the seat such as a briefcase, handbag, grocery bag, laptop, or other electronic device. To turn off the warning light and/or chime, remove the object from the seat or buckle the safety belt.

Airbag Readiness Light The system checks the airbag's electrical system for possible malfunctions. If the light stays on it indicates there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the airbag sensor(s), the pretensioners, the airbag modules, the wiring, and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the airbag system, see Airbag System on page 3‑21.

The airbag readiness light comes on solid for a few seconds when the engine is started. If the light does not come on then, have it fixed immediately.

{ WARNING

If the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started or comes on while driving, it means the airbag system might not be working properly. The airbags in the vehicle might not inflate in a crash, or they could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid injury, have the vehicle serviced right away.

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If there is a problem with the airbag system, a Driver Information Center (DIC) message can also come on. See Airbag System Messages on page 5‑45 for more information.

Airbag On-Off Light If the vehicle has an airbag on-off switch, it also has a passenger airbag status indicator located in the overhead console.

United States

Canada and Mexico

When the vehicle is started, the passenger airbag status indicator will light ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, will light for several seconds as a system check. Then, after several more seconds, the status indicator ON or OFF, or either the on or off symbol, will light to let you know the status of the right front passenger frontal airbag.

When the right front passenger airbag is manually turned off using the airbag on-off switch in the glove box, the indicator light OFF or the off symbol will come on and stay on as a reminder that the airbag has been turned off. This light will go off when the airbag has been turned on. See Airbag On-Off Switch on page 3‑29 for more information, including important safety information.

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{ WARNING

{ WARNING

If the right front passenger airbag is turned off for a person who is not in a risk group identified by the national government, that person will not have the extra protection of an airbag. In a crash, the airbag will not be able to inflate and help protect the person sitting there. Do not turn off the passenger airbag unless the person sitting there is in a risk group identified by the national government. See Airbag On-Off Switch on page 3‑29 for more on this, including important safety information.

If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. For example, the right front passenger airbag could inflate even though the airbag on-off switch is turned off. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑18 for more information, including important safety information.

If the word ON or the on symbol is lit, it means that the right front passenger frontal airbag is enabled (may inflate). See Airbag On-Off Switch on page 3‑29 for more information, including important safety information.

United States

Canada and Mexico

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If, after several seconds, both status indicator lights remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may be a problem with the lights or the airbag on-off switch. See your dealer for service.

Passenger Airbag Status Indicator If the vehicle has one of the indicators pictured in the following illustrations, then the vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger position unless there is an airbag off switch located in the glove box. If there is an airbag off switch, the vehicle does not have a passenger system system. See Airbag On-Off Switch on page 3‑29. The passenger airbag status indicator is on the overhead console. See Passenger Sensing System on page 3‑32 for important safety information.

In addition, if the vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger position, the label on the vehicle's sun visor refers to “ADVANCED AIRBAGS”.

United States

Canada and Mexico

When the vehicle is started, the passenger airbag status indicator will light ON and OFF, or the symbol

for on and off, for several seconds as a system check. Then, after several more seconds, the status indicator will light either ON or OFF, or either the on or off symbol to let you know the status of the right front passenger frontal airbag. If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the passenger airbag status indicator, it means that the right front passenger frontal airbag is enabled (may inflate). If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the airbag status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag.

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If, after several seconds, both status indicator lights remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may be a problem with the lights or the passenger sensing system. See your dealer for service.

{ 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 5‑18 for more information, including important safety information.

Charging System Light

This light comes on briefly when the ignition key is turned to START, but the engine is not running, as a check to show it is working. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. The light should go out once the engine starts. If it stays on, or comes on while driving, there could be a problem with the charging system. A charging system message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) can also appear. See Battery Voltage and Charging Messages on page 5‑39 for more information. This light could indicate that there are problems with a generator drive belt, or that there is an electrical problem. Have it

checked right away. If the vehicle must be driven a short distance with the light on, turn off accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner. If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp A computer system called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) monitors the operation of the vehicle to ensure emissions are at acceptable levels, to produce a cleaner environment. This light comes on when the vehicle is placed in ON/RUN, as a check to show it is working. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. See Ignition Positions on page 9‑26.

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Notice: Modifications made to the engine, transmission, exhaust, intake, or fuel system of the vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect the vehicle's emission controls and can cause this light to come on. Modifications to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty. This could also result in a failure to pass a required Emission Inspection/ Maintenance test. See Accessories and Modifications on page 10‑3. This light comes on during a malfunction in one of two ways: Light Flashing: A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and could damage the emission control system on the vehicle. Diagnosis and service might be required.

To prevent more serious damage to the vehicle: . Reduce vehicle speed. . Avoid hard accelerations. . Avoid steep uphill grades.

If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

If the light continues to flash, stop and park the vehicle. Turn the vehicle off, wait at least 10 seconds, and restart the engine. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps and see your dealer for service as soon as possible. Light On Steady: An emission control system malfunction has been detected on the vehicle. Diagnosis and service might be required.

If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on and stays on while the engine is running, this indicates that there is an OBD II problem and service is required. Malfunctions often are indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. Being aware of the light can prevent more serious damage to the vehicle. This system assists the service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction. Notice: If the vehicle is continually driven with this light on, the emission controls might not work as well, the vehicle fuel economy might not be as good, and the engine might not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that might not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

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The following may correct an emission system malfunction: . Check that the fuel cap is fully

installed. See Filling the Tank on page 9‑72. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap allows fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off.

. Check that good quality fuel is used. Poor fuel quality causes the engine not to run as efficiently as designed and may cause stalling after start-up, stalling when the vehicle is changed into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration. These conditions might go away once the engine is warmed up.

If one or more of these conditions occurs, change the fuel brand used. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. See Recommended Fuel on page 9‑68. If none of the above have made the light turn off, your dealer can check the vehicle. The dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that might have developed. Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Some local governments may have programs to inspect the on-vehicle emission control equipment. For the inspection, the emission system test equipment is connected to the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC).

The DLC is under the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. See your dealer if assistance is needed. The vehicle may not pass inspection if:

The malfunction indicator lamp is on with the engine running, or if the light does not come on when the ignition is turned to ON/RUN while the engine is off. See your dealer for assistance in verifying proper operation of the malfunction indicator lamp. The OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics) system determines that critical emission control systems have not been completely diagnosed.

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The vehicle would be considered not ready for inspection. This can happen if the 12-volt battery has recently been replaced or run down. The diagnostic system is designed to evaluate critical emission control systems during normal driving. This can take several days of routine driving. If this has been done and the vehicle still does not pass the inspection for lack of OBD II system readiness, your dealer can prepare the vehicle for inspection.

The vehicle brake system consists of two hydraulic circuits. If one circuit is not working, the remaining circuit can still work to stop the vehicle. For normal braking performance, both circuits need to be working. If the warning light comes on and a chime sounds there could be a brake problem. Have the brake system inspected right away. This light can also come on due to low brake fluid. See Brake Fluid on page 10‑28 for more information.

Brake System Warning Light With the ignition on, the brake system warning light comes on when the parking brake is set. If the vehicle is driven with the parking brake engaged, a chime sounds when the vehicle speed is greater than 8 km/h (5 mph).

Metric

English

This light comes on briefly when the ignition key is turned to ON/RUN. If it does not come on then, have it fixed so it is ready to warn if there is a problem.

{ WARNING

The brake system might not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to a crash. If the light is still on after the vehicle has been pulled off the road and carefully stopped, have the vehicle towed for service.

If the light comes on while driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. The pedal might be harder to push or might go closer to the floor. It can take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See Towing the Vehicle on page 10‑93. If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

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Instruments and Controls

Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light

For vehicles with the Antilock Brake System (ABS), this light comes on briefly when the engine is started. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the system is working normally the indicator light then goes off. If the ABS light stays on, turn the ignition off. If the light comes on while driving, stop as soon as it is safely possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the ABS light stays on, or comes on again while driving, the vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light is not on, the vehicle still has brakes, but not antilock brakes.

If the regular brake system warning light is also on, the vehicle does not have antilock brakes and there is a problem with the regular brakes. See Brake System Warning Light on page 5‑25. For vehicles with a Driver Information Center (DIC), see Brake System Messages on page 5‑40 for all brake‐related DIC messages. If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

Four-Wheel-Drive Light

For vehicles equipped with the four-wheel-drive light, it comes on when a vehicle with a manual

transfer case is shifted into four-wheel drive and the front axle engages. Some delay between the shifting and the light coming on is normal. See Four-Wheel Drive on page 9‑40
for more information.

Tow/Haul Mode Light

For vehicles with the Tow/Haul Mode feature, this light comes on when the Tow/Haul Mode has been activated. For more information, see Tow/Haul Mode on page 9‑39.

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StabiliTrak® OFF Light

This light comes on briefly while starting the engine. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the system is working normally, the indicator light then goes off. Press and release the Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak button to turn off TCS, and a message displays in the DIC. Press and briefly hold the TCS/ StabiliTrak button to turn off the StabiliTrak system; the StabiliTrak Off light comes on and a message appears in the Driver Information Center (DIC).

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If the StabiliTrak/TCS system is off, the system does not assist in controlling the vehicle. Turn on the StabiliTrak/TCS system and the indicator light turns off. See StabiliTrak® System on page 9‑55, and Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑44 for more information.

Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light

If the light comes on and stays on while driving, and a message displays in the Driver Information Center (DIC), have the vehicle serviced by the dealer. See Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑44 for more information. If the light flashes while driving, this means that StabiliTrak or TCS is assisting in controlling the vehicle. See StabiliTrak® System on page 9‑55 for more information.

Tire Pressure Light

The TCS/StabiliTrak light comes on briefly when the engine is started. If the light does not come on or stays on, have the vehicle serviced by the dealer. If the system is working normally, the indicator light turns off.

For vehicles with the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), this light comes on briefly when the engine is started. It provides information about tire pressures and the TPMS.

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Instruments and Controls

When the Light Is On Steady This indicates that one or more of the tires are significantly underinflated. A Driver Information Center (DIC) tire pressure message may also display. See Tire Messages on page 5‑45. Stop as soon as possible, and inflate the tires to the pressure value shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑58.

When the Light Flashes First and Then Is On Steady If the light flashes for about a minute and then stays on, there may be a problem with the TPMS. If the problem is not corrected, the light will come on at every ignition cycle. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 10‑62.

Engine Oil Pressure Light

low can also damage the

Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance can damage the engine. Driving with the engine oil engine. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Check the oil level as soon as possible. Add oil if required, but if the oil level is within the operating range and the oil pressure is still low, have the vehicle serviced. Always follow the maintenance schedule for changing engine oil. This light comes on briefly while starting the engine. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the system is working normally the indicator light then goes off.

If the light comes on and stays on, it means that oil is not flowing through the engine properly. The vehicle could be low on oil and it might have some other system problem. If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

Low Fuel Warning Light

This light, under the fuel gauge, comes on briefly while the engine is being started. This light and a chime, if the vehicle is equipped with a radio, comes on when the fuel tank is low on fuel. The Driver Information Center also displays a FUEL LEVEL LOW message. See Fuel System Messages on page 5‑43 for more

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information. When fuel is added this light and message should go off. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer.

Security Light

The security light should come on briefly as the engine is started. If the system is working normally, the indicator light turns off. If it does not come on, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the light stays on and the engine does not start, there could be a problem with the theft-deterrent system.

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This light is also used to indicate the status of the anti-theft alarm system when the ignition is turned off. The light will flash rapidly if the alarm system is arming and one or more of the monitored entry points is not closed. The light will stay on if the alarm is arming and all entry points are closed. For information regarding this light and the vehicle's security system, see Anti-theft Alarm System on page 2‑11.

High-Beam On Light

Front Fog Lamp Light

For vehicles with fog lamps, this light comes on when the fog lamps are on. The light goes out when the fog lamps are turned off. See Fog Lamps on page 6‑6 for more information.

This light comes on when the high-beam headlamps are in use. See Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer on page 6‑3.

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Instruments and Controls

Cruise Control Light

Information Displays

For vehicles equipped with cruise control, this light comes on whenever the cruise control is set. The light goes out when the cruise control is turned off. See Cruise Control on page 9‑58 for more information.

Driver Information Center (DIC) The vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC). The DIC displays information about this vehicle. It also displays warning messages if a system problem is detected. All messages will appear in the DIC display located below the tachometer in the instrument panel cluster. The DIC comes on when the ignition is on. After a short delay, the DIC will display the information that was last displayed before the engine was turned off.

The DIC has different displays which can be accessed by pressing the DIC buttons located on the instrument panel, next to the steering wheel. If the vehicle does not have DIC buttons, the trip odometer reset stem can be used to access some of the menu items. The DIC displays trip, fuel, and vehicle system information, and warning messages if a system problem is detected. The DIC also allows some features to be customized. See Vehicle Personalization (With DIC Buttons) on page 5‑48 for more information. If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the Duramax® diesel supplement for more information.

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DIC Buttons

The buttons are the trip/fuel, vehicle information, customization, and set/ reset buttons. The button functions are detailed in the following pages. 3 (Trip/Fuel): Press this button to display the odometer, trip odometer, fuel range, average economy, fuel used, timer, transmission temperature, and instantaneous economy and Active Fuel Management™ indicator. The compass and outside temperature will also be shown in the display.

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The temperature will be shown in °C or °F depending on the units selected. T (Vehicle Information): Press this button to display the oil life, units, tire pressure readings for vehicles with the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), trailer brake gain and output information for vehicles with the Integrated Trailer Brake Control (ITBC) system, engine hours, compass zone setting, and compass recalibration. U (Customization): Press this button to customize the feature settings on the vehicle. See Vehicle Personalization (With DIC Buttons) on page 5‑48 for more information. V (Set/Reset): Press this button to set or reset certain functions and to turn off or acknowledge messages on the DIC.

Trip/Fuel Menu Items (with DIC Buttons) 3 (Trip/Fuel): Press this button to scroll through the following menu items:

Odometer Press the trip/fuel button until ODOMETER displays. This display shows the distance the vehicle has been driven in either kilometers (km) or miles. Pressing the trip odometer reset stem will also display the odometer. To switch between metric and English measurements, see “Units” later in this section.

Trip Odometer Press the trip/fuel button until TRIP displays. This display shows the current distance traveled in either kilometers (km) or miles since the last reset for the trip odometer. Pressing the trip odometer reset stem will also display the trip odometer.

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Instruments and Controls

The trip odometer can be reset to zero by pressing the set/reset button while the trip odometer is displayed. You can also reset the trip odometer while it is displayed by pressing and holding the trip odometer reset stem. The trip odometer has a feature called the retro-active reset. This can be used to set the trip odometer to the number of miles (kilometers) driven since the ignition was last turned on. This can be used if the trip odometer is not reset at the beginning of the trip. To use the retro-active reset feature, press and hold the set/reset button for at least four seconds. The trip odometer will display the number of kilometers (km) or miles driven since the ignition was last turned on and the vehicle was moving. Once the vehicle begins moving, the trip odometer will accumulate mileage. For example, if the vehicle was driven 8 km (5 miles) before it is started again, and then the retro-active reset feature is

activated, the display will show 8 km (5 miles). As the vehicle begins moving, the display will then increase to 8.2 km (5.1 miles), 8.4 km (5.2 miles), etc.

Fuel Range Press the trip/fuel button until FUEL RANGE displays. This display shows the approximate number of remaining kilometers (km) or miles the vehicle can be driven without refueling. The display will show LOW if the fuel level is low. The fuel range estimate is based on an average of the vehicle's fuel economy over recent driving history and the amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank. This estimate will change if driving conditions change. For example, if driving in traffic and making frequent stops, this display may read one number, but if the vehicle is driven on a freeway, the number may change even though the same amount of fuel is in the fuel tank. This is because different driving conditions produce different

fuel economies. Generally, freeway driving produces better fuel economy than city driving. Fuel range cannot be reset.

Average Economy Press the trip/fuel button until AVG ECONOMY displays. This display shows the approximate average liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km) or miles per gallon (mpg). This number is calculated based on the number of L/100 km (mpg) recorded since the last time this menu item was reset. To reset AVG ECONOMY, press and hold the set/ reset button.

Fuel Used Press the trip/fuel button until FUEL USED displays. This display shows the number of liters (L) or gallons (gal) of fuel used since the last reset of this menu item. To reset the fuel used information, press and hold the set/reset button while FUEL USED is displayed.

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An Active Fuel Management indicator displays on the right side of the DIC, while INST ECON displays on the left side. Active Fuel Management allows the engine to operate on either four or eight cylinders, depending on driving demands. When Active Fuel Management is active, V4 will display on the DIC. When Active Fuel Management is inactive, V8 will display. See Active Fuel Management® on page 9‑32 for more information.

Blank Display This display shows no information.

Speedometer The speedometer shows how fast the vehicle is moving in either kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph). The speedometer cannot be reset.

Timer Press the trip/fuel button until TIMER displays. This display can be used as a timer. To start the timer, press the set/reset button while TIMER is displayed. The display will show the amount of time that has passed since the timer was last reset, not including time the ignition is off. Time will continue to be counted as long as the ignition is on, even if another display is being shown on the DIC. The timer will record up to 99 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds (99:59:59) after which the display will return to zero. To stop the timer, press the set/reset button briefly while TIMER is displayed.

To reset the timer to zero, press and hold the set/reset button while TIMER is displayed.

Transmission Temperature Press the trip/fuel button until TRANS TEMP displays. This display shows the temperature of the automatic transmission fluid in either degrees Celsius (°C) or degrees Fahrenheit (°F).

Instantaneous Economy and Active Fuel Management™ Indicator If the vehicle has this display, press the trip/fuel button until INST ECON V8 displays. This display shows the current fuel economy at a particular moment and will change frequently as driving conditions change. This display shows the instantaneous fuel economy in liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km) or miles per gallon (mpg). Unlike average economy, this screen cannot be reset.

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Instruments and Controls

Vehicle Information Menu Items (with DIC Buttons) T (Vehicle Information): Press this button to scroll through the following menu items:

Oil Life Press the vehicle information button until OIL LIFE REMAINING displays. This display shows an estimate of the oil's remaining useful life. If you see 99% OIL LIFE REMAINING on the display, that means 99% of the current oil life remains. The engine oil life system will alert you to change the oil on a schedule consistent with your driving conditions. When the remaining oil life is low, the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message will appear on the display. See “CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON” under Engine Oil Messages on page 5‑42. You should change the oil as soon as you can. See Engine Oil on page 10‑7. In addition to the engine oil life system monitoring the oil life, additional maintenance is

recommended in the Maintenance Schedule in this manual. See Maintenance Schedule on page 11‑3 for more information. Remember, you must reset the OIL LIFE display after each oil change. It will not reset itself. Also, be careful not to reset the OIL LIFE display accidentally at any time other than when the oil has just been changed. It cannot be reset accurately until the next oil change. To reset the engine oil life system, see Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑10.

Units Press the vehicle information button until UNITS displays. This display allows you to select between metric or English units of measurement. Once in this display, press the set/ reset button to select between METRIC or ENGLISH units. All of the vehicle information will then be displayed in the unit of measurement selected.

Tire Pressure If the vehicle has the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), the pressure for each tire can be viewed in the DIC. The tire pressure will be shown in either kilopascals (kPa) or pounds per square inch (psi). Press the vehicle information button until the DIC displays FRONT TIRES kPa (PSI) LEFT ## RIGHT ##. Press the vehicle information button again until the DIC displays REAR TIRES kPa (PSI) LEFT ## RIGHT ##. If a low tire pressure condition is detected by the system while driving, a message advising you to add pressure in a specific tire will appear in the display. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑58 and Tire Messages on page 5‑45 for more information. If the tire pressure display shows dashes instead of a value, there may be a problem with the vehicle. If this consistently occurs, see your dealer for service.

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Trailer Gain and Output On vehicles with the Integrated Trailer Brake Control (ITBC) system, the trailer brake display appears in the DIC. Press the vehicle information button until TRAILER GAIN and OUTPUT display. TRAILER GAIN shows the trailer gain setting. This setting can be adjusted from 0.0 to 10.0 with either a trailer connected or disconnected. OUTPUT shows the power output to the trailer any time a trailer with electric brakes is connected. Output is displayed in 0 to 10 bars. Dashes may appear in the OUTPUT display. To adjust trailer gain see “Integrated Trailer Brake Control System” under Towing Equipment on page 9‑94 for more information.

Battery This display shows the current battery voltage. If the voltage is in the normal range, the value will display. For example, the display may read BATTERY 13 VOLTS.

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Your vehicle's charging system regulates voltage based on the state of the battery. The battery voltage may fluctuate when viewing this information on the DIC. This is normal.

Oil Pressure This display shows the oil pressure in either kilopascals (kPa) or pounds per square inch (psi).

Engine Hours Press the vehicle information button until ENGINE HOURS displays. This display shows the total number of hours the engine has run.

Compass Zone Setting This display allows for setting the compass zone. See Compass on page 5‑5 for more information.

Compass Recalibration This display allows for calibrating the compass. See Compass on page 5‑5 for more information.

Blank Display This display shows no information. Trip Odometer Reset Stem Menu Items (with DIC Buttons) Use the trip odometer reset stem to view the odometer and trip odometer. The Language selection and Engine Hours display can also be accessed with the trip odometer reset stem.

Odometer Press the trip odometer reset stem until ODOMETER displays. This display shows the distance the vehicle has been driven in either kilometers (km) or miles (mi).

Trip Odometer Press the trip odometer reset stem until TRIP displays. This display shows the current distance traveled in either kilometers (km) or miles (mi) since the last reset for the trip odometer.

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Instruments and Controls

The trip odometer can be reset to zero by pressing and holding the trip odometer reset stem while the trip odometer is displayed. The trip odometer has a feature called the retro-active reset. This can be used to set the trip odometer to the number of miles (kilometers) driven since the ignition was last turned on. This can be used if the trip odometer is not reset at the beginning of the trip. To use the retro-active reset feature, press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for at least four seconds. The trip odometer will display the number of kilometers (km) or miles (mi) driven since the ignition was last turned on and the vehicle was moving. Once the vehicle begins moving, the trip odometer will accumulate mileage. For example, if the vehicle was driven

8 km (5 miles) before it is started again, and then the retro-active reset feature is activated, the display will show 8 km (5 miles). As the vehicle begins moving, the display will then increase to 8.2 km (5.1 miles), 8.4 km (5.2 miles), etc.

Language This display allows you to select the language in which the DIC messages will appear. To select a language: 1. Press the trip odometer reset

stem until ODOMETER displays.

2. While in the ODOMETER

display, press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for three seconds until the currently set language displays.

3. Continue to press and hold the

trip odometer reset stem to scroll through all of the available languages. The available selections are ENGLISH (default), FRANCAIS (French), ESPANOL (Spanish), and NO CHANGE.

4. Once the desired language is

displayed, release the trip odometer reset stem to set the choice.

Engine Hours To display the ENGINE HOURS, place the ignition in LOCK/OFF or ACC/ACCESSORY, then press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for four seconds while viewing the ODOMETER. This display shows the total number of hours the engine has run.

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Trip Odometer Reset Stem Menu Items (without DIC Buttons)

Language This display allows you to select the language in which the DIC messages will appear. To select a language: 1. Press the trip odometer reset

stem until ODOMETER displays.

2. While in the ODOMETER

display, press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for three seconds until the currently set language displays.

3. Continue to press and hold the

trip odometer reset stem to scroll through all of the available languages. The available languages are ENGLISH (default), FRANCAIS (French), ESPANOL (Spanish), and NO CHANGE.

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4. Once the desired language is

displayed, release the trip odometer reset stem to set the choice.

Trip Odometer Press the trip odometer reset stem until TRIP displays. This display