Chevrolet 2001 Silverado 1500 Owners Manual Owner's

2015-10-23

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Every
2001
Silverado under
warranty is backed
with the following
services:

Courtesy
Transportation

1-800-CHEV-USA ®
( For vehicles purchased in Canada,
call 1-800-268-6800 )
that provides in an emergency:

Free lockout assistance
Free dead-battery assistance
Free out-of-fuel assistance
Free flat-tire change
Emergency towing

2001 Chevrolet Silverado
Owner's Manual

Litho in U.S.A.
Part Number C2115 A First Edition

Table of Contents
Seats and Restraint Systems
Section 1

Seats and Seat Controls
Safety Belts

Air Bag System
Restraint Systems for Children

Features and Controls
Section 2

Windows
Keys and Door Locks
Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)
Tailgate
Automatic Transmission
Manual Transmission
Four-Wheel Drive Operation (If Equipped)
Parking Brake
Tilt Wheel (If Equipped)
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

Windshield Wipers
Cruise Control
Exterior and Interior Lamps
Mirrors
Storage Compartments
Accessory Power Outlets
OnStar® System (Option)
Instrument Panel, Warning Lights and Gages
Message Center

Table of Contents (cont'd)
Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
Section 3

Heating and Air Conditioning
Setting the Radio Clock

Radio/Cassette Player/CD Player
Radio Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped)

Your Driving and the Road
Section 4

Your Driving, the Road and Your Vehicle
Defensive Driving
Drunken Driving
Control of a Vehicle
Braking
Steering

Driving Tips for Various Road Conditions
Off-Road Driving
Recreational Vehicle Towing
Loading Your Vehicle
Towing a Trailer

Problems on the Road
Section 5

Hazard Warning Flashers
Jump Starting
Towing Your Vehicle

Engine Overheating
Changing a Flat Tire
If You're Stuck

iii

Table of Contents (cont'd)
Service and Appearance Care
Section 6

Fuel
Checking Fluids and Lubricants
GM Oil Life System™ (If Equipped)
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Passenger Compartment Air Filter (If Equipped)
Brakes
Bulb Replacement

Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
Tires and Wheels
Appearance Care
Electrical System/Fuses and Circuit Breakers
Capacities and Specifications
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

Maintenance Schedule
Section 7

Scheduled Maintenance
Owner Checks and Services
Periodic Maintenance Inspections

Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Maintenance Records

Table of Contents (cont'd)
Customer Assistance Information
Section 8

Customer Satisfaction Procedures
Customer Assistance Offices
Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation

Warranty Information (See Warranty Manual)
Reporting Safety Defects on page 8-10
Service Publications

Index
Section 9

In the Index you will find an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual.
You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

Please refer to the last page of this manual for your Service Station Guide
v

We support voluntary
technician certification.

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem,
CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem and the
name SILVERADO are registered trademarks of
General Motors Corporation.
This manual includes the latest information at the time it
was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after
that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in
Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada
Limited” for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever it
appears in this manual.
Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be
there if you ever need it when you’re on the road.
If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it
so the new owner can use it.

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a
French Language Manual:
Aux propriétaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous
procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en français chez
votre concessionaire ou au:
DGN Marketing Services Ltd.
1577 Meyerside Dr.
Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1B9

How to Use this Manual

Safety Warnings and Symbols

Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning
to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you
do this, it will help you learn about the features and
controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find
that pictures and words work together to explain
things quickly.

You will find a number of safety cautions in this book.
We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you
about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore
the warning.

CAUTION:
These mean there is something that could hurt
you or other people.
In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is.
Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the
hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or
others could be hurt.

vii

You will also find a circle
with a slash through it in
this book. This safety
symbol means “Don’t,”
“Don’t do this” or “Don’t
let this happen.”

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can
damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would
not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly.
But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid
the damage.
When you read other manuals, you might see
CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different
colors or in different words.
You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle.
They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

Vehicle Damage Warnings
Also, in this book you will find these notices:

NOTICE:
These mean there is something that could
damage your vehicle.

viii

Vehicle Symbols
These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. Also see “Warning Lights and Gages” in the Index.
For example,
these symbols
are used on an
original battery:
CAUTION
POSSIBLE
INJURY
PROTECT
EYES BY
SHIELDING
CAUSTIC
BATTERY
ACID COULD
CAUSE
BURNS
AVOID
SPARKS OR
FLAMES
SPARK OR
FLAME
COULD
EXPLODE
BATTERY

These symbols
are important for
you and your
passengers
whenever your
vehicle is driven:
CHILD
RESTRAINT
TOP STRAP
ANCHOR

DOOR LOCK
UNLOCK

These symbols
have to do with
your lamps:

These symbols
are on some of
your controls:

MASTER
LIGHTING
SWITCH

WINDSHIELD
WIPER

TURN
SIGNALS

WINDSHIELD
WASHER

PARKING
LAMPS

FASTEN
SEAT
BELTS

HAZARD
WARNING
FLASHER

POWER
WINDOW

DAYTIME
RUNNING
LAMPS

AIR BAG

FOG LAMPS

WINDSHIELD
DEFROSTER

REAR
WINDOW
DEFOGGER

These symbols
are used on
warning and
indicator lights:

Here are some
other symbols
you may see:

ENGINE
COOLANT
TEMP

FUSE

BATTERY
CHARGING
SYSTEM

LIGHTER

HORN
BRAKE

COOLANT

FUEL

ENGINE OIL
PRESSURE
VENTILATING
FAN

ANTI-LOCK
BRAKES

Model Reference
This manual covers these models:

Regular Cab Pickup

Chassis Cab

Extended Cab Pickup

Crew CabR

Service Station Guide
Cooling System
See Section 5*

For
a More
Detailed Look at
What's Under the Hood

Tire Pressure
See Section 6

Spare Tire Pressure

See Section 6*

See Section 5

Hood Release
See Section 6

Engine Oil Dipstick

Windshield Washer
Fluid

Battery

See Section 6

See Section 6*

Oil Viscosity
Engine Oil
See Section 6*

Fuel
See Section 6*

*For vehicles equipped with a diesel engine, see the Diesel Engine Supplement

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also
learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.
1-2
1-12
1-17
1-18
1-18
1-24
1-25
1-25
1-35

Seats and Seat Controls
Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone
Here Are Questions Many People Ask
About Safety Belts -- and the Answers
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
Driver Position
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Right Front Passenger Position
Air Bag System
Center Passenger Position

1-36
1-40
1-42
1-46
1-67
1-70
1-70
1-70

Rear Seat Passengers
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for
Children and Small Adults
Children
Restraint Systems for Children
Older Children
Safety Belt Extender
Checking Your Restraint Systems
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash

1-1

Seats and Seat Controls
This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust
them, and fold them up and down. It also tells you about
reclining front seatbacks and head restraints.

Manual Front Seat

CAUTION:
You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to
adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is
moving. The sudden movement could startle and
confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you
don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when
the vehicle is not moving.

If your vehicle has a manual bucket or split bench seat,
you can adjust it with this lever located at the front of
the seat.
Lift the lever at the front of the seat to unlock it.
Using your body, slide the seat to where you want it.
Then, release the lever and try to move the seat with
your body in order to make sure the seat is locked
into place.

1-2

Manual Lumbar Control (If Equipped)

Power Seat(s) (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has a
lumbar adjustment, you
can increase or decrease
lumbar support in an area
of the lower seatback. It is
located on the outboard side
of the seat cushion.

To increase or decrease support, turn the knob toward
the front or rear of the vehicle.
Horizontal Control: If your vehicle has a power seat,
you can adjust it with this control located on the
outboard edge of the seat.
Raise or lower the front of the seat by raising or
lowering the forward edge of the button. Raise or
lower the rear of the seat by raising or lowering the
rear edge of the button.

1-3

Move the seat forward or rearward by moving the whole
button toward the front or toward the rear of the vehicle.
Moving the whole button up or down raises or lowers
the entire seat cushion.
Vertical Control: If your vehicle has power reclining
seats, you can use this button to adjust the angle of the
seatback. Move the reclining front seatback rearward or
forward by moving the button toward the rear or toward
the front of the vehicle. See “Reclining Seatbacks” in
the Index for further information.

Power Lumbar Control (If Equipped)
If you have power
lumbar adjustment, you
can increase or decrease
lumbar support in an area
of the lower seatback.
The control is located on
the on outboard of the
cushion seat.

1-4

To increase support, press and hold the front of the
control. Let go of the control when the lower seatback
reaches the desired level of support.
To decrease support, press and hold the rear of the
control. Let go of the control when the lower seatback
reaches the desired level of support.
You can also reshape the back wing area of the
lower seatback.
To increase support, press and hold the top of the
control. Let go of the control when the lower seatback
reaches the desired level of support.
To decrease support, press and hold the bottom of the
control. Let go of the control when the lower seatback
reaches the desired level of support.

Memory Seat (If Equipped)
The memory function
controls the driver’s seat
cushion and recliner
positions. The control is
located on the driver’s
side door panel.

It does not store the lumbar or back support positions.
To set your memory seat:
1. Adjust the driver’s seat to your desired position.
2. Press the SET button and then press the 1 or 2
side of the memory control within five seconds.
When your vehicle is in PARK (P), press the 1 or 2
button of the memory control to recall the seat setting.
To do the same thing for a second driver, follow the
preceding steps, but press the other number of the
memory control.

Heated Front Seats (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has heated
front seats, the ignition
must be in RUN for them
to operate.

The control for the driver’s side heated seat is located
on the driver’s side door panel. The control for the
passenger’s side heated seat is located on the
passenger’s side door panel.
To activate the heated seats, press the button once for
the HI heat setting. Press the button again for the
LO heat setting. To turn off the heated seats, press the
button a third time. An indicator light on the button will
illuminate for each heat setting anytime the heated seats
are operating.

1-5

Reclining Seatbacks

To adjust the front seatback, lift the lever upward.
The lever is located on the outboard side of the seat
cushion. Release the lever to lock the seatback where
you want it. Lift the lever again upward and the seatback
will go to an upright position.
If your vehicle has power seats with a power recliner,
see “Power Seats” in the Index for further information
on how to operate the reclining seatback feature.

1-6

But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle
is moving.

Head Restraints

CAUTION:
Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is
in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle
up, your safety belts can’t do their job when
you’re reclined like this.
The shoulder belt can’t do its job. In a crash, you
could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries.
The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the
belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt
forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones.
This could cause serious internal injuries.
For proper protection when the vehicle is in
motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit
well back in the seat and wear your safety
belt properly.

Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the
restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position
reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

1-7

On some models, the head restraints tilt forward and
rearward also.
To tilt the head restraints forward, grasp the top of the
restraint and move it forward to where you want it to go
until you hear a click. It will then be locked into that
position until you need to move it again. Pulling it
forward past the last position will allow the restraint to
return to its upright position.

Seatback Latches

The seatbacks fold forward to let you access the rear
of the cab.
To fold a front seatback
forward, pull this lever
toward the front of the
vehicle to release the
seatback. The lever is
located on the outboard
side of the seat cushion.

CAUTION:
If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward
in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury
to the person sitting there. Always press rearward
on the seatback to be sure it is locked.

1-8

To return the seatback to the upright position, push the
seatback rearward until it latches. After returning the
seatback to its upright position, try to pull the seatback
forward to make sure it is locked.

Easy Entry Seat (Extended Cab Only)
(If Equipped)

CAUTION:
If any easy entry seat isn’t locked, it can move.
In a sudden stop or crash, the person sitting there
could be injured. And, even if there is no crash or
sudden stop, a driver sitting in an unlocked easy
entry seat could be startled by the sudden
movement and hit the wrong control or pedal,
causing an accident. After you’ve used it, be sure
to push rearward on any easy entry seat to be
sure it is locked.
The driver’s side manual front bucket seat and the
driver’s side manual split bench seat in your vehicle
may have an easy entry feature. This makes it easy
to get in and out of the rear seat.

The lever is located on the
outboard side of the seat.
To operate it, pull forward
on the top of this lever
and tilt the seatback fully
forward toward the front
of the vehicle.

When you do, the seat bottom will release. Pull or push
the seat forward until it stops.
To return the seat to its regular position, return the
seatback to its upright position and push the whole seat
rearward by the seatback until it latches without pulling
forward on the adjustment lever.
After returning the seat to its regular position, try to
move the seat with your body in order to make sure the
seat is locked into place.

1-9

Rear Seat (Extended Cab)
Folding the Rear Seat

3. Push and pull on the
seat to make sure the
seat is secure.

The extended cab’s rear seat can be folded up to provide
more cargo space. To fold the seat:
1. Pull forward on
the release strap
located under the
rear seat cushion.

The extended cab’s rear seat can also be folded open for
more seating space. To use the seat:
1. Push rearward on the seat cushion while pulling up
on the release strap under the seat cushion. Pull the
seat cushion downward until it latches.
2. Fold the seat cushion upward until it latches with
the seatback.

1-10

2. After pulling the seat cushion down, pull up on it to
make sure it is locked.

Rear Seat (Crew Cab)R
The second row rear seat is a 60/40 split seat. Either side
of the rear seat may be folded down to give you more
cargo space.
Before folding the rear seat on the driver’s side, insert
the two buckles into the retainer in the seatback. That
way, the buckles will be out of the way when the seat is
folded and will be available for passengers to use when
the seat is returned to the passenger position. Also, make
sure that nothing is under or in front of the seat and that
the head restraints are completely lowered.

After folding the seat cushion fully forward, pull the
seatback forward and fold the seatback down until it is
flat. If the seatback cannot fold flat because it interferes
with the cushion, try moving the front seat forward
and/or bringing the front seatback more upright. The
lever at the base of the seat must be turned rearward to
release the seatback.

To fold, pull up on the
strap loop at the rear of the
seat cushion. Then, pull
the seat cushion up and
fold it forward.

To create a load floor, release the panels from the seatback
by pushing forward on the latch. Then fold the panels back
to cover the rear seat footwell area.

1-11

To return the seat to the passenger position, lift the floor
load panels and latch them into the seatback. Lift the
seatback up and push rearward all the way. Then lower
the seat cushion until it latches into position.
Pull forward on the seatback and up on the seat cushion
to make sure the seat is securely in place.
Check to see that the buckles on the driver’s side
seatback are accessible to the outboard and center
occupant and are not under the seat cushions.

Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone
This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts
properly. It also tells you some things you should not do
with safety belts.
And it explains the air bag system.

1-12

CAUTION:
Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear
a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and
you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries
can be much worse. You can hit things inside the
vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously
injured or killed. In the same crash, you might
not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your
safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts
are fastened properly too.

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to
wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.

CAUTION:
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area,
inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision,
people riding in these areas are more likely to be
seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people
to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not
equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure
everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a
safety belt properly.

You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have
a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.
A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so
serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive.
But most crashes are in between. In many of them,
people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk
away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt
or killed.
After more than 30 years of safety belts in vehicles,
the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does
matter ... a lot!

Your vehicle has a light
that comes on as a reminder
to buckle up. See “Safety
Belt Reminder Light” in
the Index.

1-13

Why Safety Belts Work
When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

Put someone on it.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.

1-14

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider
doesn’t stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by something.
In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...

1-15

or the instrument panel ...

or the safety belts!
With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does.
You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance,
and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why
safety belts make such good sense.

1-16

Here Are Questions Many People Ask
About Safety Belts -- and the Answers
Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an
accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety
belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt,
even if you’re upside down. And your chance of
being conscious during and after an accident, so
you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if
you are belted.

If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have
to wear safety belts?

Air bags are in many vehicles today and will
be in most of them in the future. But they are
supplemental systems only; so they work with
safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag
system ever offered for sale has required the use of
safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air
bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most
protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions,
but especially in side and other collisions.

If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from
home, why should I wear safety belts?

You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an
accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you
and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good
driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your
control, such as bad drivers.
Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km)
of home. And the greatest number of serious
injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than
40 mph (65 km/h).
Safety belts are for everyone.

1-17

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
Adults
This part is only for people of adult size.
Be aware that there are special things to know about
safety belts and children. And there are different
rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be
riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called
“Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.
First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your
vehicle has.
We’ll start with the driver position.

Driver Position
This part describes the driver’s restraint system.

Lap-Shoulder Belt
The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to
wear it properly.
1. Close and lock the door.
2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight.
To see how, see “Seats” in the Index.

1-18

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.
The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across
you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back
slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you
more slowly.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt
Extender” at the end of this section.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the
safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on
the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies
force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely
to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt
would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause
serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should
go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts
of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle
end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt.

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or crash,
or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

1-19

What’s wrong with this?

CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is
too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too
much, which could increase injury. The shoulder
belt should fit against your body.

The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly
as much protection this way.

1-20

What’s wrong with this?

CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if your belt is
buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash,
the belt would go up over your abdomen.
The belt forces would be there, not at the
pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal
injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle
nearest you.

The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

1-21

What’s wrong with this?

CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if you wear the
shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your
body would move too far forward, which would
increase the chance of head and neck injury.
Also, the belt would apply too much force to the
ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones.
You could also severely injure internal organs
like your liver or spleen.

The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should
be worn over the shoulder at all times.

1-22

What’s wrong with this?

CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt.
In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of
the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is
twisted, make it straight so it can work properly,
or ask your dealer to fix it.

The belt is twisted across the body.

1-23

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant
women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to
be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
The belt should go back out of the way.
Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the
way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both
the belt and your vehicle.
A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and
the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below
the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

1-24

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the
mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more
likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For
pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making
safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

Right Front Passenger Position
To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt
properly, see “Driver Position” earlier in this section.
The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same
way as the driver’s safety belt -- except for one thing.
If you ever pull the shoulder portion of the belt out all
the way, you will engage the child restraint locking
feature. If this happens, just let the belt go back all the
way and start again.

Air Bag System
This part explains the air bag system.
Your vehicle has air bags -- one air bag for the driver
and another air bag for the right front passenger.
Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of
injury from the force of an inflating air bag. But these
air bags must inflate very quickly to do their job and
comply with federal regulations.

Here are the most important things to know about the
air bag system:

CAUTION:
You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if
you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you
have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a
crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things
inside the vehicle or being ejected from it.
Air bags are “supplemental restraints” to the
safety belts. All air bags are designed to work
with safety belts, but don’t replace them.
Air bags are designed to work only in moderate
to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle
hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate
at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal
crashes. And, for unrestrained occupants,
air bags may provide less protection in frontal
crashes than more forceful air bags have
provided in the past. Everyone in your vehicle
should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or
not there’s an air bag for that person.

1-25

CAUTION:
Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the
blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating
air bag, as you would be if you were leaning
forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts
help keep you in position before and during a
crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air
bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible
while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

CAUTION:
Anyone who is 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
CAUTION: (Continued)

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CAUTION: (Continued)
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. To read how, see the part of this manual
called “Children.”

There is an air bag
readiness light on
the instrument panel,
which shows the
air bag symbol.

The system checks the air bag electrical system for
malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical
problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index
for more information.

How the Air Bag System Works

The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument
panel on the passenger’s side.
Where are the air bags?
The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

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CAUTION:
If something is between an occupant and an
air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or
it might force the object into that person.
The path of an inflating air bag must be kept
clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant
and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything
on the steering wheel hub or on or near any
other air bag covering.
When should an air bag inflate?
An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe
frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate
only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed
“threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a
wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is
about 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 km/h).

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The threshold level can vary, however, with specific
vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or
below this range. If your vehicle strikes something
that will move or deform, such as a parked car,
the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not
designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear
impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant.
In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air
bag should have inflated simply because of the damage
to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were.
Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact
and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or
near-frontal impacts.
The air bag system is designed to work properly under
a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage.
Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain.
As always, wear your safety belt. See “Off-Road
Driving” in the Index for more tips on off-road driving.

What makes an air bag inflate?

What will you see after an air bag inflates?

In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing
system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing
system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which
inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related
hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the
steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of
the right front passenger.

After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates,
so quickly that some people may not even realize
the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag
module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s
air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front
passenger’s bag -- will be hot for a short time.
The parts of the bag that come into contact with you
may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be
some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated
air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver
from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle,
nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

How does an air bag restrain?
In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions,
even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or
the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection
provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of
the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body,
stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags
would not help you in many types of collisions,
including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts,
primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward
those air bags. Air bags should never be regarded as
anything more than a supplement to safety belts,
and then only in moderate to severe frontal or
near-frontal collisions.

CAUTION:
When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air.
This dust could cause breathing problems
for people with a history of asthma or other
breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the
vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so.
If you have breathing problems but can’t get out
of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get
fresh air by opening a window or door.

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In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag,
windshields are broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage may also occur from
the right front passenger air bag.

D Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag
system. Improper service can mean that your air
bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer
for service.

D Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they
inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag
system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system
won’t be there to help protect you in another crash.
A new system will include air bag modules and
possibly other parts. The service manual for your
vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

D Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and

diagnostic module, which records information about
the air bag system. The module records information
about the readiness of the system, when the system
commands air bag inflation and driver’s safety belt
usage at deployment. The module also records speed,
engine rpm, brake and throttle data.

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NOTICE:
If you damage the covering for the driver’s or
the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may
not work properly. You may have to replace the
air bag module in the steering wheel or both
the air bag module and the instrument panel for
the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open
or break the air bag coverings.

Air Bag Off Switch (Regular Cab and
Extended Cab Models)
Your vehicle has a switch on the instrument panel that
you can use to turn off the right front passenger’s
air bag. If your vehicle is a regular cab model or an
extended cab model, it has a switch on the instrument
panel that you can use to turn off the right front
passenger’s air bag.

This switch should only be turned to AIR BAG OFF
if the person in the right front passenger’s position is
a member of a passenger risk group identified by the
national government as follows:
Infant. An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the
front seat because:

D my vehicle has no rear seat;
D my vehicle has a rear seat too small to accommodate
a rear-facing infant seat; or
D the infant has a medical condition which, according
to the infant’s physician, makes it necessary for the
infant to ride in the front seat so that the driver can
constantly monitor the child’s condition.

Child age 1 to 12. A child age 1 to 12 must ride in the
front seat because:

D my vehicle has no rear seat;
D although children ages 1 to 12 ride in the rear

seat(s) whenever possible, children ages 1 to 12
sometimes must ride in the front because no space
is available in the rear seat(s) of my vehicle; or

D the child has a medical condition which, according
to the child’s physician, makes it necessary for the
child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can
constantly monitor the child’s condition.

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Medical Condition. A passenger has a medical
condition which, according to his or her physician:

D causes the passenger air bag to pose a special risk
for the passenger; and

D makes the potential harm from the passenger air bag
in a crash greater than the potential harm from
turning off the air bag and allowing the passenger,
even if belted, to hit the dashboard or windshield
in a crash.

CAUTION:
If the right front passenger’s air bag is turned off
for a person who isn’t in a risk group identified
by the national government, that person won’t
have the extra protection of an air bag. In a
crash, the air bag wouldn’t be able to inflate and
help protect the person sitting there. Don’t turn
off the passenger’s air bag unless the person
sitting there is in a risk group.

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To turn off the right front passenger’s air bag, insert
your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the
switch to AIR BAG OFF.
The AIR BAG OFF light will come on to let you know
that the right front passenger’s air bag is off. The right
front passenger’s air bag will remain off until you turn it
back on again, and the AIR BAG OFF light will stay on
to remind you that the air bag is off.

CAUTION:
If the air bag readiness light ever comes on when
you have turned off the air bag, it means that
something may be wrong with the air bag system.
The right front passenger’s air bag could inflate
even though the switch is off.
If your vehicle is a regular cab pickup and
this ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the
national government has identified as a member
of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right
front passenger’s position (for example, don’t
secure a rear-facing child restraint in your
vehicle) until you have your vehicle serviced.
If your vehicle is an extended cab pickup and
this ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the
national government has identified as a member
of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right
front passenger’s position (for example, don’t
secure a rear-facing child restraint in the right
front passenger’s seat) until you have your
vehicle serviced.

To turn the right front passenger’s air bag on again,
insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and
move the switch to the ON position.

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Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.
There are parts of the air bag system in several places
around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to
inflate while someone is working on your vehicle.
Your dealer and the service manual have information
about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system.
To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner
Publications” in the Index.

CAUTION:
For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is
turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air
bag can still inflate during improper service. You
can be injured if you are close to an air bag when
it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape
or yellow connectors. They are probably part of
the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper
service procedures, and make sure the person
performing work for you is qualified to do so.
The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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Adding Equipment to Your Air
Bag-Equipped Vehicle

If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to
the front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags
from working properly?

As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is
attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle’s basic
structure isn’t changed, it’s not likely to keep the
air bags from working properly in a crash.

Is there anything I might add to the front of
the vehicle that could keep the air bags from
working properly?

Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s
frame, bumper system, front end sheet metal or
height, they may keep the air bag system from
working properly. Also, the air bag system may not
work properly if you relocate any of the air bag
sensors. If you have any questions about this,
you should contact Customer Assistance before
you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and
addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of
the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual.
See “Customer Satisfaction Procedure” in the Index.

What if I add a snow plow? Will it keep the
air bags from working properly?

We’ve designed our air bag systems to work
properly under a wide range of conditions,
including snow plowing with vehicles equipped
with the optional Snow Plow Prep Package
(RPO VYU). But don’t change or defeat the
snow plow’s “tripping mechanism.” If you do,
it can damage your snow plow and your vehicle,
and it may cause an air bag inflation.

Lap Belt
If your vehicle has front and rear bench seats, someone
can sit in the center positions.

Center Passenger Position

When you sit in a center seating position, you have a
lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt
longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.

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Rear Seat Passengers
It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up!
Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear
seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are
wearing safety belts.
Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown
out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others
in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.

Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions
(Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until
the belt is snug.
Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap
part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough,
see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned
so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly
if you ever had to.

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Lap-Shoulder Belt (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)
The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder
belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock
if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this
happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it.
Then pull the belt across you more slowly.
2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way,
it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and
start again.
If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt
Extender” at the end of this section.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the
safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle
end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

1-38

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.
The safety belt also locks if you pull the belt very
quickly out of the retractor.

CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt
is too loose. In a crash, you would move
forward too much, which could increase injury.
The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for
Children and Small Adults
If your vehicle has a rear seat, your vehicle has
shoulder belt comfort guides. This feature will
provide added safety belt comfort for older children
who have outgrown booster seats and for small adults.
When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide
better positions the belt away from the neck and head.
There is one guide for each outside passenger position in
the rear seat. To provide added safety belt comfort for
children who have outgrown child restraints and for
smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on
the shoulder belts. Here’s how to install a comfort guide
and use the safety belt:
1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the
interior body.

1-40

2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges
of the belt into the slots of the guide.

3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.
The guide must be on top of the belt.

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Children
Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes
infants and all other children. 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.

Infants and Young Children
Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles,
they should have the protection provided by the
appropriate restraint. Young children should not use
the vehicle’s safety belts, unless there is no other choice.

4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as
described in “Rear Seat Passenger Positions
(Extended Cab and Crew Cab)” 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: (Continued)
For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h),
a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a
240-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby
should be secured in an appropriate restraint.

CAUTION:
People should never hold a baby in their arms
while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh
much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby
will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it.
CAUTION: (Continued)

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What are the different types of add-on
child restraints?

Add-on child restraints, which are purchased
by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic
types. Selection of a particular restraint should
take into consideration not only the child’s weight,
height and age but also whether or not the restraint
will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which
it will be used.

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
outstanding protection for adults and older
children, 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.

For most basic types of child restraints, there are
many different models available. When purchasing
a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used
in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a
label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle
safety standards.
The restraint manufacturer’s instructions that
come with the restraint state the weight and
height limitations for a particular child restraint.
In addition, there are many kinds of restraints
available for children with special needs.

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CAUTION:
Newborn infants need complete support,
including support for the head and neck.
This is necessary because a newborn infant’s
neck is weak and its head weighs so much
compared with the rest of its body. In a crash,
an infant in a rear-facing seat settles into the
restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed
across the strongest part of an infant’s body,
the back and shoulders. Infants always should
be secured in appropriate infant restraints.

CAUTION:
The body structure of a young child is quite
unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom
the safety belts are designed. A young child’s
hip bones are still so small that vehicle’s regular
safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones,
as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the
child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply
force on a body area that’s unprotected by any
bony structure. This alone could cause serious or
fatal injuries. Young children always should be
secured in appropriate child restraints.

1-45

Restraint Systems for Children

An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a
motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to
restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface.
Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center
of the vehicle.

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A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with
the seating surface against the back of the infant.
The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a
crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.

A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint
for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes
with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields.

A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to
improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system.
Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner,
and some high-back booster seats have a five-point
harness. A booster seat can also help a child to see out
the window.

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Q:
A:

How do child restraints work?
A child restraint system is any device designed for
use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position
children. A built-in child restraint system is a
permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add-on
child restraint system is a portable one, which is
purchased by the vehicle’s owner.
For many years, add-on child restraints have
used the adult belt system in the vehicle. To help
reduce the chance of injury, the child also has to
be secured within the restraint. The vehicle’s belt
system secures the add-on child restraint in the
vehicle, and the add-on child restraint’s harness
system holds the child in place within the restraint.
One system, the three-point harness, has straps
that come down over each of the infant’s shoulders
and buckle together at the crotch. The five-point
harness system has two shoulder straps, two hip
straps and a crotch strap. A shield may take the
place of hip straps.

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A T-shaped shield has shoulder straps that are
attached to a flat pad which rests low against the
child’s body. A shelf- or armrest-type shield has
straps that are attached to a wide, shelf-like shield
that swings up or to the side.
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.
When securing an add-on child restraint, refer to the
instructions that come with the restraint which may be
on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this
manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so
if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from
the manufacturer.

Where to Put the Restraint
(Regular Cab Pickup)

Where to Put the Restraint
(Extended Cab Pickup)

The child restraint must be secured properly in the right
front passenger seat. If you want to secure a rear-facing
child restraint in the right front passenger’s seat, turn off
the passenger’s air bag. See “Air Bag Off Switch” and
“Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat
Position” in the Index for more on this, including
important safety information.

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.
General Motors, therefore, recommends that child
restraints be secured in the rear seat, including an infant
riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a
forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a
booster seat. There is limited space in the rear seating
area of an extended cab model. If you want to secure a
child restraint in a rear seating position of an extended
cab model, especially in the rear center position, be sure
to study the instructions that came with your child
restraint to see if there is enough room to secure your
seat properly.

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. Be sure to turn
off the air bag before using a rear-facing child
restraint in the right front seat position.
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move
around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in
the vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

If a forward-facing child seat must be secured in the
vehicle’s right front seat, the seat should be moved back
as far as possible. However, it is better to secure the
restraint in a rear seat.
If you want to secure a rear-facing child restraint in the
right front passenger’s seat, turn off the passenger’s air
bag. See “Air Bag Off Switch” and “Securing a Child
Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position” in the Index
for more on this, including important safety information.

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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. Be sure to turn
off the air bag before using a rear-facing child
restraint in the right front seat position.
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child
restraint properly.
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move
around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in
the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint
in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

Where to Put the Restraint
(Crew Cab Pickup)
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.
General Motors, therefore, recommends that child
restraints be secured in the rear seat, including an

1-50

infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in
a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in
a booster seat.
If a forward-facing child seat must be secured in the
vehicle’s right front seat, the seat should be moved as
far back as possible. However, it is better to secure the
restraint in a rear seat. Never put a rear-facing child
restraint in the right front passenger seat. Here’s why:

CAUTION:
A child riding 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.
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.
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
Some child restraints have a top strap, or “top tether.”
It can help restrain the child restraint during a collision.
For it to work, a top strap must be properly anchored
to the vehicle.
If the child restraint does not have a top strap, one
can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints.
Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a
kit is available.
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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Right Front Passenger Position Top Strap
Anchor (All Models)

You’ll find the top strap anchor for the right front
passenger seat behind the seat, near the floor.

If your vehicle is a regular cab model, there is also a
top strap anchor for the right front passenger position
located on the back panel of your vehicle, behind the
right front passenger seat. In order to get to the anchor,
you’ll have to remove the trim plug covering it.
Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready
to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top
strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s
instructions say.

1-52

Rear Seat Top Strap Anchors
(Extended Cab Models)

If your vehicle is an extended cab model, you’ll find the
top strap anchors for the rear seating positions near the
top of the seatback. In addition to the top strap anchors,
each seating position has a fabric loop at the top of the
seatback that you’ll use to route a top strap through.

When using a child restraint with a top strap in either
rear outboard position, raise the head restraint and route
the top strap through the fabric loop on the seatback.
Then, attach the top strap to the anchor point at the
center rear seating position.

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Rear Seat Top Strap Anchors
(Crew Cab Models)

When using a child restraint with a top strap in the
center rear position, route the top strap through the
fabric loop on the seatback. Then, raise the head
restraint and attach the top strap to the anchor point
located at the closest outboard position.
Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready
to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top
strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s
instructions say.

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If you vehicle is a crew cab model, you’ll find top strap
anchors for the rear seating positions located on the back
panel of your vehicle, behind the rear seat.
In order to get to the brackets, you’ll have to remove the
trim plugs covering them.

There are also anchorage points at the rear base of the
front passenger’s seat.

Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for
Children (LATCH System)

Anchor the top strap to one of these anchor points.
Be sure to use an anchor point located on the same
side of the vehicle as the seating position where the
child restraint will be placed. Raise the head restraint
and route the top strap under it.

Your vehicle may have the LATCH system. If it does,
you’ll find anchors in the rear of the seat cushion.
For front passenger seat positions, there is an anchor
behind and to the bottom of the seat to secure the top
strap. For rear center seat positions, there is an anchor
near the driver’s side rear seat head restraint.

Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready
to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top
strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s
instructions say.

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In order to use the system, you need either a forward-facing
child restraint that has attaching points (A) at its base and
a top tether anchor (B), or a rear-facing child restraint that
has attaching points (A), as shown here.

With this system, use the LATCH system instead of the
vehicle’s safety belts to secure a child restraint.

1-56

CAUTION:
If a LATCH-type child restraint isn’t attached
to its anchorage points, the restraint won’t be
able to protect a child sitting there. In a crash,
the child could be seriously injured or killed.
Make sure that a LATCH-type child restraint is
properly installed using the anchorage points,
or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the
restraint. See “Securing a Child Restraint in the
Center Rear Seat Position (Extended Cab) and
(Crew Cab)” or “Securing a Child Restraint in
the Right Front Seat Position” in the Index for
information on how to secure a child restraint in
your vehicle using the vehicle’s safety belts.

Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the
LATCH System

D Find the anchors for the seating position you want

to use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the
back of the seat cushion.

D Put the child restraint on the seat.
D Attach the anchor points on the child restraint to
the anchors in the vehicle. The child restraint
instructions will show you how.

Securing a Child Restraint in a
Rear Outside Seat Position
(Extended Cab and Crew Cab)
There is limited space in the rear seating area of an
extended cab model. If you want to secure a child
restraint in a rear outside seating position, be sure to
study the instructions that came with your child
restraint to see if there is enough room to secure
your seat properly.

D Attach the top strap to the top strap anchor.

See “Top Strap” in the Index. Tighten the top
strap according to the child restraint instructions.

D Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, simply unhook the top
strap from the top tether anchor and then disconnect
the anchor points.

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.

1-57

1. Put the restraint on the seat.
2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around
the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show
you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the
child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of
the retractor to set the lock.

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.

1-58

Securing a Child Restraint in the
Center Front Seat Position

Don’t use child restraints in this position. The restraints
won’t work properly.
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.
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.

1-59

Securing a Child Restraint in the
Center Rear Seat Position
(Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

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.

If you have an extended cab or a crew cab pickup,
you can secure a child restraint in the center rear
seat position.
There is limited space in the rear seating area of an
extended cab model. If you want to secure a child
restraint in a rear seating position of an extended cab
model, especially in the rear center position, be sure
to study the instructions that came with your child
restraint to see if there is enough room to secure your
seat properly.

1-60

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.

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.
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.

3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the
restraint. The child restraint instructions will show
you how.

1-61

Securing a Child Restraint in the
Right Front Seat Position
Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. There’s a
switch on the instrument panel that you can use to turn
off the right front passenger’s air bag when you want to
secure a rear-facing child restraint at the right front
passenger’s position. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in
the Index for more on this, including important
safety information.

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. Be sure to
turn off the air bag before using a rear-facing
child restraint in the right front seat position.
If a forward-facing child restraint is suitable
for your child, always move the passenger seat
as far back as it will go.

1-62

CAUTION: (Continued)
If this ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the
national government has identified as a member
of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right
front passenger’s position (for example, don’t
secure a rear-facing child restraint in your
vehicle) until you have your vehicle serviced.
See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index.
Crew Cab Models: Your vehicle has a right front
passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child
restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

Regular Cab and Extended Cab Models: Your vehicle
has a right front passenger air bag. There’s a switch on
the instrument panel that you can use to turn off the
right front passenger’s air bag when you want to secure
a rear-facing child restraint at the right front passenger’s
position. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index for
more on this, including important safety information.

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. Be sure to
turn off the air bag before using a rear-facing
child restraint in the right front seat position.
If a forward-facing child restraint is suitable for
your child, always move the passenger seat as far
back as it will go.

Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a
forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat.

1-63

Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a
forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat.

1-64

CAUTION: (Continued)
If your vehicle is an extended cab pickup and
this ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the
national government has identified as a member
of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right
front passenger’s position (for example, don’t
secure a rear-facing child restraint in the right
front passenger’s seat) until you have your vehicle
serviced. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index.
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. Your vehicle has a right front passenger’s air bag.
If your vehicle is a regular cab or an extended cab
and you are using a rear-facing child restraint in this
seat, make sure the air bag is turned off. See “Air
Bag Off Switch” in the Index. If your child restraint
is forward-facing, always move the seat as far
back as it will go before securing it in this seat.
See “Seats” in the Index.
2. Put the restraint on the seat.

3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around
the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show
you how.
If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face
or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of
the retractor to set the lock.

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.

1-65

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.
If you were using a rear-facing child restraint in a
regular cab pickup or an extended cab pickup, turn on
the right front passenger’s air bag when you remove
the rear-facing child restraint from the vehicle unless
the person who will be sitting there is a member of a
passenger air bag risk group. See “Air Bag Off Switch”
in the Index.

CAUTION:
6. 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.
7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.

1-66

If the right front passenger’s air bag is turned off
for a person who isn’t in a risk group identified
by the national government, that person won’t
have the extra protection of an air bag. In a
crash, the air bag wouldn’t be able to inflate and
help protect the person sitting there. Don’t turn
off the passenger’s air bag unless the person
sitting there is in a risk group. See “Air Bag Off
Switch” in the Index for more on this, including
important safety information.

Older Children

Q:
A:

What is the proper way to wear safety belts?
If possible, an older child should wear a
lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a
shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should
not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit
snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the
thighs. It should never be worn over the abdomen,
which could cause severe or even fatal internal
injuries in a crash.

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear seat.
In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike
other people who are buckled up, or can be thrown
out of the vehicle. Older children need to use safety
belts properly.
Older children who have outgrown booster seats should
wear the vehicle’s safety belts.
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.

1-67

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.

1-68

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?

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.

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.

1-69

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.)

1-70

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.

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.
2-1
2-5
2-6
2-10
2-13
2-14
2-15
2-16
2-17
2-18
2-18
2-20
2-23
2-24
2-28
2-34
2-43
2-44

Windows
Keys
Door Locks
Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)
Rear Doors
Tailgate
Theft
Content Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped)
PasslockR
New Vehicle “Break-In”
Ignition Positions
Starting Your Engine
Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)
Automatic Transmission Operation
Manual Transmission Operation
Four-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)
Parking Brake
Shifting Into PARK (P)
(Automatic Transmission Only)
2-

2-46
2-47
2-47
2-48
2-48
2-49
2-51
2-52
2-58
2-61
2-63
2-76
2-80
2-82
2-84
2-99

Shifting Out of PARK (P)
(Automatic Transmission Only)
Parking Your Vehicle
(Manual Transmission Models Only)
Parking Over Things That Burn
Engine Exhaust
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked
(Automatic Transmission)
Manual Selectable Ride (If Equipped)
Locking Rear Axle
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
Exterior Lamps
Interior Lamps
Mirrors
OnStarR System (If Equipped)
The Instrument Panel - Your
Information System
Instrument Panel Cluster
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators
Message Center

2-1

Windows
CAUTION:
Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows
closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by
the extreme heat and can suffer permanent
injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never
leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the
windows closed in warm or hot weather.

Manual Windows
Turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower
manual windows.

2-2

Power Windows (If Equipped)
If your vehicle is equipped
with power windows, the
controls are located on each
of the side doors in the front
and rear.

The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger window
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 or raise the window.
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 on a Crew Cab, the driver’s
door power window switch has a lockout feature. This
feature prevents the rear windows from operating except
from the driver’s position when the driver’s door button
labeled WINDOW LOCK is engaged. When the button
is not engaged, the rear power windows will operate.

2-3

Swing-Out Windows (Extended Cab)
To open a rear swing-out
window, flip the latch open
and swing the glass out.

Sliding Rear Window (If Equipped)
To open the sliding rear window, unlock the latch lever
by pushing the lever toward the passenger’s side of the
vehicle. Release the lever from the latch plate and slide
the window toward the passenger’s side of the vehicle.
To close the window, slide the window toward the driver’s
side of the vehicle. The latch lever will automatically snap
on to the latch plate. Try to open the window without
releasing the latch lever to be sure the window is in the
locked position.

The latch will catch when the window is fully open and
it will also hold it in the open position.

2-4

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.

2-5

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
only the center floor
console (if equipped).

If you ever lose your keys, your dealer will be able to
assist you with obtaining replacements.

2-6

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
D Passengers -- especially children -- can
easily open the doors and fall out of a
moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the
handle won’t open it. You increase the
chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in
a crash if the doors aren’t locked. So, wear
safety belts properly and lock the doors
whenever you drive.
D Young children who get into unlocked
vehicles may be unable to get out. A child
can be overcome by extreme heat and can
suffer permanent injuries or even death
from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle
whenever you leave it.
D Outsiders can easily enter through an
unlocked door when you slow down or stop
your vehicle. Locking your doors can help
prevent this from happening.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
You can use the keyless entry system (if equipped).
You can also use your key.
To lock the door from the
inside, slide the lever
rearward. To unlock
the door, slide the
lever forward.

Power Door Locks (If Equipped)
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.

Press the recessed side of the switch marked “U” to
unlock all the doors at once.

2-7

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.

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 do the following:

Press the top of the switch to unlock all the doors
at once.
The power door locks will operate at any time without
the ignition being on.
The power door locks will also automatically lock when
the vehicle reaches 15 mph (24 km/h). To unlock the
doors, refer to the instructions listed previously. The
automatic locking feature can be disabled, if you prefer.
See “Programmable Automatic Door Locks” in the
following text.
Operating the power locks may interact with the
theft-deterrent system (if equipped). See “Content
Theft-Deterrent” in the Index.

2-8

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.
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. This
option is unavailable on most vehicles not equipped
with keyless entry.

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

Lockout Prevention
To protect you from locking your key in the vehicle, this
feature stops the power door locks from locking 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 (Crew Cabs)
(If Equipped)
With this feature, you can
lock the rear side doors
so that they cannot be
opened from the inside by
passengers. This feature is
located on the inside of the
rear doors.

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.

Move the button forward to engage the security feature.
Move the button rearward to return the door locks to
normal operation.

2-9

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.

2-10

At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is
normal for any remote 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.

Operation
UNLOCK: Pressing this button once will unlock
the driver’s door. The parking lamps will flash and the
interior lights will come on. 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. Press LOCK again within three seconds 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.

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.

2-11

To replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter, do
the following:

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.

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.

2-12

Rear Doors
Your vehicle may be equipped with a rear access
door(s) that allows easier access to the rear area of the
extended cab.
To open a rear access door
from the outside, first open
the front door. Then, use the
handle located on the front
edge of the rear access door
to open it.

To open a rear access door
from the inside, the front
door must be opened first.
Then, use the handle located
on the inside of the rear
access door to open it.

If your vehicle is a Crew Cab, you can open your doors from
the inside or outside. Your vehicle may also have a feature
which prevents children from opening rear doors. See “Child
Security Locks” in the Index for more information.
You must fully close a rear access door before you can
close the front door.

2-13

Tailgate
You can open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle
while pulling the tailgate toward you.
To shut the tailgate, firmly push it upward until it latches.
After you put the tailgate back up, pull it back towards
you to be sure it latches securely.

Tailgate Removal
The tailgate on your vehicle can be removed to allow for
different loading situations. Although the tailgate can
be removed without assistance, you may want someone
to assist you with the removal to avoid possible damage
to the vehicle.

To remove the tailgate, do the following:
1. Raise the tailgate
slightly and release both
retaining cable clips.
To release the retaining
cable clips, lift the cable
so it points straight out
and push the cable
clip forward.

2. With the tailgate at a
slight upward angle, pull
back on the tailgate at
the right edge and then
move the tailgate to the
right to release the
left edge.

Reverse the above procedure to reinstall. Make sure the
tailgate is secure.

2-14

Theft

Parking at Night

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.

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.

Key in the Ignition

Even if you park in a lot where someone will be
watching your vehicle, it’s still 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?

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.
If you have a manual transmission, your steering wheel
will be locked, and so will your ignition. If you have an
automatic transmission, your ignition and transmission
will be locked. 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 Lots

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.

2-15

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).

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:

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.

2-16

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.

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.

2-17

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
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.

2-18

Ignition Positions
You can use your key to turn your ignition switch to
five different positions.

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.

LOCK (B): This position locks your ignition and
transmission. It’s a theft-deterrent feature. You will only
be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned
to LOCK.

CAUTION:
On manual transmission vehicles, turning the key
to LOCK will lock the steering column and result
in a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could
cause a collision. If you need to turn the engine
off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key only
to OFF. Don’t press the key release button while
the vehicle is moving.

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? 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.
OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine.
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.

2-19

Key Release Button (Manual Transmission)
The ignition key cannot be
removed from the ignition
of manual transmission
vehicles unless the key
release button is used.

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
Automatic Transmission
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:
To remove the key on manual transmission vehicles,
turn the key to OFF, then press the button and turn the
key to LOCK. Do not hold the button in while turning
the key to OFF. Pull the key straight out.

Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
(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.

2-20

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.

Manual Transmission
The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL and the parking
brake engaged. Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start
the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is
not all the way down -- that’s a safety feature.

Starting Your V8 Engine
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your
engine gets warm.

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. 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.

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.
2. 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.

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.

2-21

Starting Your V6 Engine
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your
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. If it doesn’t start within 10 seconds, hold your key in
START for not more than 10 seconds. Then, push the
accelerator pedal all the way down for five more
seconds, unless it starts sooner.

2-22

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but
then stops), wait 15 seconds and start over.
When the engine starts, let go of the key and the
accelerator pedal.

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.

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.

2-23

Automatic Transmission Operation

PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It’s the
best position to use when you start your engine because
your vehicle can’t move easily. If your vehicle is equipped
with the AllisonR Transmission, use park for stationary
operation of the Power Takeoff (PTO) (if equipped).

CAUTION:

If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, it 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.
There are several different positions for your shift lever.

2-24

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. 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. 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. If your vehicle
is equipped with the Allison Transmission, the “R” may
blink on the PRNDL if the shift inhibitor is active.

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. If your vehicle is equipped with
the Allison Transmission, do not idle in
REVERSE (R) for more than five minutes.
Extended idling in REVERSE (R) may cause
transmission overheating and damage. Always
select PARK (P) whenever idle time exceeds
five minutes.
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.

2-25

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 vehicle is being towed.

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 (55 km/h), push your
accelerator pedal about halfway down.

D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the

CAUTION:

accelerator all the way down.

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.
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.

2-26

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.

NOTICE:
If your vehicle is equipped with the Allison
Transmission, do not idle in DRIVE (D) for more
than five minutes. Extended idling in DRIVE (D)
may cause transmission overheating and damage.
Always select PARK (P) if idle time is longer than
five minutes.

If your vehicle is equipped with the Allison Transmission,
it will initially attain first range when DRIVE (D) is
selected. As vehicle speed increases, the transmission
will upshift automatically through each available range
up to FIFTH (5). As the vehicle slows, the transmission
will downshift automatically.
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.

2-27

Tow/Haul Mode Selector Switch
(Automatic Transmission)

Manual Transmission Operation
5-Speed (VORTEC 6000 V8 Engine)
Here’s how to operate
your transmission.

FIRST (1) is intended only for heavy loads or trailer
towing and is not recommended for normal driving.
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.

2-28

During the first 500 miles (805 km) of vehicle use, start
your vehicle moving in FIRST (1). This allows clutch
components to break-in properly.

FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into
FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as
you press the accelerator pedal. Shift into FIRST (1)
only when the vehicle is below 5 mph (8 km/h). If you
try to shift down into FIRST (1) at excessive vehicle
speeds, the shift lever will not move into FIRST (1)
until vehicle speed is reduced.

FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5): Shift into the higher
forward gears the same way you do for THIRD (3).
Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the
accelerator pedal.

SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal and shift into
SECOND (2). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal
as you press the accelerator pedal.

NEUTRAL: Use this position when you start or idle
your engine.

You can shift into SECOND (2) when you’re going less
than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete
stop and it’s hard to shift into SECOND (2), put the shift
lever into NEUTRAL and let up on the clutch. Press the
clutch pedal back down. Then shift into SECOND (2).
If you try to downshift into SECOND (2) at excessive
vehicle speeds, the shift lever will not move into the
SECOND (2) position until the vehicle speed is reduced.
THIRD (3): Press the clutch pedal and shift into
THIRD (3). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal
as you press the accelerator pedal.

To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake
pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal
and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL.

REVERSE (R): To back up, first press down the clutch
pedal. Wait for the vehicle to stop moving and then, shift
into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch pedal slowly
while pressing the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE:
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is
stopped. Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your
vehicle is moving could damage your transmission.
Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake,
when turning off your engine and parking your vehicle.

2-29

5-Speed
(VORTEC 4300 V6 and 4800 V8 Engines)

NEUTRAL: Use this position when you start or idle
your engine.

Here’s how to operate your transmission:

FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into
FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal
as you press the accelerator pedal.
You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less
than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete
stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST (1), put the shift
lever into NEUTRAL and let up on the clutch. Press the
clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1).
SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal as you let up on
the accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND (2). Then,
slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the
accelerator pedal.
THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5): Shift into
THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5) the same way
you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch
pedal as you press the accelerator pedal.
To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake
pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal
and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL.

2-30

6-Speed
(VORTEC 8100 V8 and DURAMAX
6600 V8 Engines)

Here’s how to operate
your transmission.

This 6-speed pattern is unique to GM manual
transmissions. The transmission always repositions the
shift lever to NEUTRAL, which is located between
FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5) gear.
To prevent unintentional gear selections, additional force
is required to move the shift lever into REVERSE (R) or
FIRST (1). Use FIRST (1) when trailer towing, driving
with payload in the pickup box or launching on a grade.
Otherwise, start in SECOND (2) gear. Only shift into
FIRST (1) when the vehicle has stopped moving.

During the first 500 miles (805 km) of vehicle use, start
the vehicle moving in FIRST (1) gear. This allows the
clutch components to wear-in properly.
FIRST (1): With the vehicle at a stop, release the
brake, press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1).
Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the
accelerator pedal. Only downshift into FIRST (1) when
the vehicle has come to a complete stop. If the shift
lever will not go into FIRST (1), put the lever in
NEUTRAL and let up on the clutch pedal to fully
engage the clutch. Press the clutch pedal again.
Then, shift into FIRST (1).
SECOND (2): With the vehicle at a stop, release
the brake, press the clutch pedal and shift into
SECOND (2). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as
you press the accelerator pedal. With the vehicle moving,
press the clutch pedal and upshift into SECOND (2) from
FIRST (1) while applying light pressure to the right on
the shifter. Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you
press the accelerator pedal. If you come to a complete stop
and the shift lever will not go into SECOND (2), put the
lever in NEUTRAL and let up on the clutch pedal to
fully engage the clutch. Press the clutch pedal again.
Then, shift into SECOND (2).

2-31

THIRD (3): Press the clutch pedal and upshift into
THIRD (3). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as
you press the accelerator pedal.
FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5) and SIXTH (6): Upshift
into the higher forward gears the same way as you do
THIRD (3). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you
press the accelerator pedal.
NEUTRAL: Use this position when you start or idle
your engine.
REVERSE (R): To back up, press the clutch pedal.
Wait for the vehicle to stop moving and then, shift to
REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch slowly while
pressing the accelerator pedal. Also, use REVERSE (R),
along with the parking brake, when turning off your
engine and parking your vehicle.

2-32

Shift Speeds

CAUTION:
If you skip a gear when you downshift, you could
lose control of your vehicle. You could injure
yourself or others. Don’t shift down more than
one gear at a time when you downshift.
Do not allow the engine rpm to overspeed and enter the
tachometer red lines. Engine overspeed occurs when
downshifting, or descending a grade, at too high a
vehicle speed. When going down steep grades, always
select a gear at least one position lower than you would
use on climbing a grade. This will allow the vehicle’s
engine to provide some braking and help to slow the
vehicle as it goes down the grade. Monitor your vehicle
speed, acceleration and engine rpm while applying the
brakes as you go down the grade to ensure you have
complete control over the vehicle.

If your engine speed drops below 600 rpm, or if the
engine is not running smoothly, you should downshift to
the next lower gear. When operating on slippery
surfaces, downshift at lower than normal vehicle speeds
to prevent the tires from slipping.
In bench seat equipped vehicles, move the tallest
beverage containers to the right cupholder to provide
additional clearance for the shift lever.
For vehicles equipped with a center console, the front
cup holder pulls out and turns 180_ to provide additional
clearance between tall beverage containers and the
shift lever.

Shift Light
If you have a manual
transmission, you may have
a SHIFT light. This light
will show you when to shift
to the next higher gear for
best fuel economy.
When this light comes on, you can shift to the next
higher gear if weather, road and traffic conditions allow.
For the best fuel economy, accelerate slowly and shift
when the light comes on.
While you accelerate, it is normal for the light to go on and
off if you quickly change the position of the accelerator.
If your vehicle has four-wheel drive and is equipped
with a manual transmission, disregard the SHIFT light
when the transfer case is in 4-Wheel Low.
Ignore the SHIFT light when you downshift.

2-33

Four-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)

Manual Transfer Case (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 (4HI) or
4-WHEEL LOW (4LO) 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.

The transfer case shift lever is on the floor to the right of the
driver. Use this lever to shift into and out of four-wheel drive.
The 4WD indicator will
light up when you shift into
four-wheel drive and the
front axle engages.

Some delay between shifting and the indicator’s lighting
is normal.

2-34

CAUTION:
Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can
cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission
is in PARK (P), or if you have a manual
transmission, even if you are in gear. 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.

An indicator on the bezel near the lever shows you the
transfer case settings:
2-Wheel High (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.
4-Wheel High (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.

NEUTRAL (N): Shift to this setting only when your
vehicle needs to be towed. The ignition switch must be
in RUN in order to shift the lever into NEUTRAL (N).
See “Recreational Vehicle Towing” or “Towing your
Vehicle” in the Index.
4-Wheel Low (4L0): 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.

2-35

You can shift from 2-Wheel High (2HI) to
4-Wheel High (4HI) or from 4-Wheel High (4HI) to
2-Wheel High (2HI) while the vehicle is moving. Your
front axle will engage faster if you take your foot off of
the accelerator for a couple of seconds after you shift.
In extremely cold weather, it may be necessary to stop
or slow the vehicle to shift into 4-Wheel High (4HI).

Automatic Transfer Case (If Equipped)
The transfer case switches
are located to the left of the
instrument panel cluster.

To shift into or out of 4-Wheel Low (4LO)
or NEUTRAL (N):
1. Slow the vehicle to a roll, about 1 to 3 mph
(2 to 5 km/h) and shift an automatic transmission
into NEUTRAL (N), or with a manual transmission,
press the clutch pedal.
2. Shift the transfer case shift lever in
one continuous motion.
Don’t pause in NEUTRAL (N) as you shift the transfer
case into 4-Wheel Low (4LO), or your gears could clash.
Remember that driving in 4-Wheel High (4HI) or
4-Wheel Low (4LO) may reduce fuel economy. Also,
driving in four-wheel drive on dry pavement could
cause your tires to wear faster and make your transfer
case harder to shift and run noisier.

2-36

Use these switches to shift into and out of four-wheel drive.

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:
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.
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 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.

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.

2-37

Indicator lights in the switches show which setting your
transfer case is 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 the transfer case is being shifted. 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.
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).

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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).

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).

Shifting to NEUTRAL

10. Release the parking brake prior to towing.

To shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL, first make sure
the vehicle is parked so that it will not roll:

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.

2-39

Electronic Transfer Case (If Equipped)
If your four-wheel-drive vehicle has the electronic
transfer case, 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 three driving settings:

2HI: This setting is for driving in most street and
highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in
two-wheel drive.
4HI: This setting engages your front axle to help drive
your vehicle. Use 4HI when you need extra traction, such
as on snowy or icy roads, or in most off-road situations.
4LO: This setting also engages your front axle to give
you extra traction. You may never need 4LO. It sends
the maximum power to all four wheels. You might
choose 4LO if you were driving off-road in sand, mud
or deep snow and climbing or descending steep hills.
Indicator lights in the switches show you which setting
you are in. The indicator lights will come on briefly
when you turn on the ignition and the last chosen setting
will stay on. If the lights do not come on, you should
take your vehicle in for service. An indicator light will
flash while shifting. It will remain illuminated when the
shift is completed. If for some reason the transfer
cannot make a requested shift, it will return to the last
chosen setting.

2-40

Shifting from 2HI to 4HI
Press and release the 4HI switch. This can be done at
any speed, and the front axle will lock automatically
with some delay.
Shifting from 4HI to 2HI
Press and release the 2HI switch. This can be done at
any speed, and the front axle will unlock automatically
with some delay.
Shifting from 2HI or 4HI to 4LO
To shift from 2HI or 4HI to 4LO, 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
into 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 slower than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) and the
transmission is in NEUTRAL (N). The transfer case will
shift to 4HI while waiting to complete the shift to 4LO if
you are shifting from 2HI.
Shifting from 4LO to 4HI or 2HI
To shift from 4LO to 4HI or 2HI, your 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 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 switch. You must wait for the 4HI indicator light to
stop flashing and remain illuminated before shifting
your transmission into gear.
If the 4HI switch is pressed when your vehicle is in gear
and/or moving, the 4HI indicator light will flash for
30 seconds but will not complete the shift unless the
vehicle is moving slower than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) and the
transmission is in NEUTRAL (N).

2-41

Shifting to NEUTRAL

Shifting Out of NEUTRAL

To shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL, first make sure
the vehicle is parked so that it will not roll:

To shift out of NEUTRAL:

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.

2-42

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.

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 moved 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.

2-43

Shifting Into PARK (P)
(Automatic Transmission Only)

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:

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.
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, 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. If you’re pulling
a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

2-44

D Pull the shift lever toward you.

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine
Running (Automatic Transmission Only)

CAUTION:

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).

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 with a manual transfer
case shift lever and your transfer case is in
NEUTRAL, 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. 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.

2-45

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).

Shifting Out of PARK (P)
(Automatic Transmission Only)

Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission)

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 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.

If 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 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).

When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out
of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake.

4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear
you want.

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).

5. Have the system fixed as soon as you can.

2-46

Parking Your Vehicle
(Manual Transmission Models Only)

Parking Over Things That Burn

CAUTION:
Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can
cause your vehicle to roll even if the manual
transmission is in gear. 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.
Before you get out of your vehicle, move the shift lever
into REVERSE (R), and firmly apply the parking brake.
Once the shift lever has been placed into REVERSE (R)
with the clutch pedal pressed in, you can turn the ignition
key to OFF, remove the key and release the clutch.
If you are parking on a hill, or if you are pulling a
trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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.

2-47

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.

2-48

Running Your Engine While You’re
Parked (Automatic Transmission)
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.

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 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. Always set your parking brake.

Manual Selectable Ride (If Equipped)
The main function of this system is to provide superior
ride comfort while trailering or fully loaded, as well as
for unloaded driving. This system also helps to provide:

D Improved trailering stability
D Improved handling response when trailering or
fully loaded

This button is located on
the center of the instrument
panel near the radio. Press
it to activate the selectable
ride setting as desired.
An indicator light near
the button will illuminate
whenever the system
is active.

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.

2-49

It is recommended to use this system as follows:

D For optimum ride comfort in an unloaded vehicle the
button should be out and the indicator light will not
be illuminated. This switch position indicates
NORMAL levels of ride control or damping.

D For optimum ride comfort when trailering, fully
loaded, driving off-road, or when personal
preferences demand more control the button should
be pressed in with the indicator light illuminated.
This switch position indicates FIRM levels of ride
control or damping.
The following guide can also be used to help determine
the best setting.
NORMAL: The indicator light will be off when the
system is in this setting. Use for normal city and
highway driving. Provides a smooth, soft ride when
the vehicle is unloaded.

2-50

FIRM (Unloaded): Press the switch to activate this
setting, the indicator light will illuminate. Use this
setting when road conditions or personal preference
demand more control. Provides more “feel” or response
to the road conditions.
FIRM (Loaded): Press the switch to activate this
setting, the indicator light will illuminate. Use this
setting to minimize trailer inputs to the vehicle or
when the vehicle is fully loaded. This setting is also
appropriate for off-road driving.
You can select a setting at any time based on road
and trailering conditions to provide the best ride and
handling. Select a new setting whenever driving
conditions change.

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.

Tilt Wheel
The tilt steering wheel
allows you to adjust the
steering wheel before
you drive.

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

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. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level,
then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

2-51

Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

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.

The lever on the left side of the steering column
includes your:

D
D
D
D
D
D

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator
Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer
Flash-to-Pass
Windshield Wipers
Windshield Washer
Cruise Control (If Equipped)

2-52

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 or a blown fuse (see “Fuses
and Circuit Breakers” in the Index).

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.

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.

Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer

Windshield Wipers

Turn Signal On Chime

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.

You control the windshield wipers by turning the band
with the wiper symbol on it.

To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, but not
so far that you hear it click.

2-53

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.

2-54

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.

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.

CAUTION:
D Cruise control can be dangerous where you

This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does
not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h).

can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So,
don’t use your cruise control on winding
roads or in heavy traffic.
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.

If you apply your brakes, or press the clutch pedal
(if equipped), the cruise control will disengage.

2-55

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.

United States

Canada

The CRUISE light on the instrument panel will
illuminate when the cruise control is engaged.
Resuming a Set Speed

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.

Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed
and then you apply the brake or press the clutch pedal
(if equipped). 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 hold the switch at R/A briefly, 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.

2-56

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control

Using Cruise Control on Hills

There are two ways to go to a higher speed:

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.

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.

Ending Cruise Control
There are three ways to turn off the cruise control:

D Press and hold the SET button at the end of the lever

D Step lightly on the brake pedal.
D Step lightly on the clutch pedal (if equipped).
D Move the cruise control switch to OFF.

D To slow down in very small amounts, press the

Erasing Speed Memory

Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control
until you reach the lower speed you want, then
release it.

SET button briefly. Each time you do this, you’ll go
about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition,
your cruise control set speed memory is erased.

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.

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Exterior Lamps

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 in auto headlamp mode.

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.
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.
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 the following:

D
D
D
D
D

Parking Lamps
Sidemarker Lamps
Taillamps
License Plate Lamps
Instrument Panel Lights

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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.
You may be able to turn off your automatic headlamp
system. See “Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)” later in
this section for more information.
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular
headlamp system when you need it.

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, turn 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.
Fully functional daytime running lights are required
on all vehicles first sold in Canada.

The DRL system will come on when the following
conditions are met:

D
D
D
D
D

the ignition is on,
the headlamp switch is in automatic headlamp mode,
the automatic transmission is not in PARK (P),
the light sensor determines it is daytime and
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).

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To idle a manual transmission equipped vehicle with the
DRL off, set the parking brake. The DRL will stay off
until you release the parking brake.
The following procedure applies only to vehicles first
sold in the United States.
When necessary, you may turn off the Automatic
Headlamp System and the Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) feature by following these steps:

Fog Lamps (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has 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
your instrument panel.

1. Turn the ignition to RUN.
2. Press the DOME OVERRIDE button four times
within six seconds. After the fourth press of the
button, a chime will sound informing you the system
is off. The system will revert back to the automatic
mode when the ignition is turned off and on again.
3. To return to the automatic mode, push the DOME
OVERRIDE button four times within six seconds
(the chime will sound), or turn the ignition off
and on again.

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.

As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular
headlamp system when you need it.

Remember, fog lamps alone will not give off as much
light as your headlamps. Never use the fog lamps in the
dark without turning on the headlamps.
The fog lamps will go off whenever the high-beam
headlamps come on. When the high beams go off, the
fog lamps will come on again.

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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)
If your vehicle has this
feature, 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 switch will activate the lamp
and illuminate an indicator light near the button. Pressing
the switch again will turn off the roof mounted lamp.

Interior Lamps
Instrument Panel Intensity Control
The instrument panel intensity control is located to the
right of the headlamp switch.
Turn the thumbwheel up to adjust the instrument panel
lights. To turn on the dome lamps (with the vehicle
doors closed) turn the thumbwheel all the way up.

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 a door is 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.

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.

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Front Reading Lamps (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has reading
lamps, press the button
located next to the lamp to
turn the lamp on. The lamps
can be adjusted to point in
the direction you want.

Press the button again to turn the lamp off.

2-62

Dome Lamps
The dome lamps will come on when you open a door.
You can also turn the dome lamps on by turning the
thumbwheel, located next to the parking/headlamps
knob, all the way up. In this position, the dome lamps
will remain on whether the doors are 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 the doors are
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.

Cargo Lamp

Mirrors
Press the button to turn the
cargo lamp on. Press the
button again to turn it off.

A message in the instrument
panel cluster will come on
and display CARGO LAMP
ON when the cargo lamp is
turned on and the ignition
key is turned to RUN.

Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror

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.

Battery Run-Down Protection
This feature shuts off the dome, reading, glove box,
cargo 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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Electrochromic Inside Rearview Mirror
with Compass and Temperature Display
(If Equipped)
When on, an electrochromic mirror automatically dims
to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind
you after dark.

Temperature Display

The mirror also includes a display in the upper right
corner of the mirror face. The compass reading and the
outside temperature will both appear in the display at the
same time. The dual display can be turned on or off by
briefly pressing either the TEMP or the COMP button.

The temperature can be displayed by pressing the
TEMP button. Pressing the TEMP button once briefly, will
toggle the temperature reading on and off. To alternate the
temperature reading between Fahrenheit and Celsius, press
and hold the TEMP button for three seconds until the display
blinks F_ and C_. Press and release the TEMP button to
toggle between the Fahrenheit and Celsius readings. After
five seconds of inactivity, the display will stop blinking and
display the last selection made.
Press and release the TEMP button to toggle the
temperature display between Fahrenheit or Celsius. If an
abnormal reading is displayed, please consult your dealer.

2-64

Electrochromic Mirror Operation

Compass Calibration

The time period you need to press and hold the
TEMP button to turn the electrochromic feature on or
off is fifteen seconds. The indicator light to the right of
the TEMP button will still turn on or off to show you
when the electrochromic feature is activated.

The compass may need calibration if:

Compass Operation
Press the COMP button 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.

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.

In order to calibrate, “CAL” must be displayed in the
mirror compass windows. If “CAL” is not displayed,
push in the “COMP” button for approximately
eight seconds or until “CAL” is displayed.
The compass can be calibrated in one of two ways:

D Drive the vehicle in circles at five mph (8 km/h)
or less until the display reads a direction, or

D Drive the vehicle on your everyday routine and after

several turns the compass will become calibrated and
will display a direction.

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Compass Variance
The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory.
It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate
for compass variance if you live outside zone eight.
Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance
cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for
compass variance. Compass variance is the difference
between earth’s magnetic north and true geographic
north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance,
your compass could give false readings.
To adjust for compass variance:
1. Use the COMP button located at the bottom of
the mirror.
2. Press and hold the COMP button for three seconds
until a zone number appears in the display.
3. Find your current location and variance zone number
on the following zone map.

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4. Press the COMP button on the bottom of the mirror
until the new zone number appears in the display.
After you stop pressing the button in, the display will
show a compass direction within a few seconds.

Outside Manual Adjust Mirrors
Adjust your outside mirrors so you can just see the side of
your vehicle and have a clear view of objects behind you.
Some mirrors can be folded in, to enter narrow doorways.
The use of hood-mounted air deflectors and add-on
convex mirror attachments may adversely affect
mirror performance.

Camper-Type Outside Mirrors (If Equipped)

If your vehicle is equipped with camper-type mirrors,
they can be adjusted so you can have a clear view of
objects behind you.

West Coast-Type Outside Mirrors
(If Equipped)
If your vehicle is equipped with the west coast-type
mirrors, they can be adjusted so you can have a clear
view of objects behind you.
A. Outer Mirror Frame
B. Mirror Head
C. Nut

The mirrors can be adjusted by turning the
mirror head (B) and moving the outer mirror frame (A)
backward or forward. You can also loosen the nut (C)
on the top and bottom of the outer mirror frame to
tilt the mirror head.

Pull out the mirror head to extend it for better visibility
when towing a trailer.

2-67

Electric Outside Rearview Mirrors
(If Equipped)
The control is located on
the driver’s door armrest.

Heated Outside Rearview Mirrors
(If Equipped)
The outside rearview mirrors with this feature have a
defrost mode.
To turn on the defrost feature, press the rear window
defogger button. See “Rear Window Defogger” in the
Index for further information.

Convex Outside Mirror
Your passenger’s side mirror may be convex. A convex
mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the
driver’s seat.
Move the upper control to the left or right to choose the
mirror you want to adjust, then press the arrows on the
lower control pad to adjust the mirror.

CAUTION:
A convex mirror can make things (like other
vehicles) look farther away than they really are.
If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you
could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your
inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before
changing lanes.

2-68

Storage Compartments

Installing a Garage Door Opener

Your vehicle includes a number of storage
compartments for storage of often-used items.

If you have the long overhead console, a garage door
opener can be installed in the front overhead compartment.

Some vehicles have storage areas in the instrument panel.
Use these spaces for items such as gloves or small books.

1. To install the garage door opener, first open the
compartment door by pressing the release
button forward.

Some models have a storage pocket on each of
the front doors.
Some vehicles have a storage area behind the seat.

Glove Box
To open your glove box, pull the lever upward and pull
the door downward.

2. Peel the protective
backing from the hook
and loop patch. Press it
firmly to the back of
your garage door opener,
as close to the center of
the opener as possible.

Center Overhead Console (If Equipped)
Your vehicle may have an overhead console. The long
overhead console has three storage compartments inside
it and the short overhead console has one compartment
inside it.

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3. Center the garage door opener activation button over
the console door button, and press the opener firmly
into place.
The pegs inside the compartment door are used to
make sure the button on the compartment door will
contact the control button on the garage door opener.
4. Add one peg at a
time until, with the
compartment door
closed, the PUSH button
on the compartment
door will operate the
garage door opener.

5. Now, with the
compartment door
closed, press the button
marked PUSH again to
make sure the garage
door opener
operates properly.

With the garage door opener positioned properly and
the right number of pegs in place, you should only
have to press the PUSH button slightly to operate
the opener.
6. Adjust the position of the garage door opener and
add or remove pegs, as needed, until the opener
operates properly.

2-70

Sunglasses Storage Compartment

Instrument Panel Cupholder (If Equipped)

If you have the long overhead console, the center overhead
compartment can be used to store your sunglasses.

Your vehicle may have a cupholder in the middle of the
instrument panel.

To open the center compartment, press the release
button located at the rear of the compartment door.

To use the cupholder, pull the cupholder out of the
instrument panel.
Place your sunglasses in the compartment door with the
lenses facing out.
The rear compartment can be used to store a small item,
like a book.
To open the rear compartment, press the release button
located at the rear of the compartment door.

To close the cupholder, push it back into the
instrument panel.

2-71

Center Console Storage Area (If Equipped)
Your vehicle may have a console compartment between
the bucket seats.

Your console may have a cupholder that swings down
for the rear seat passengers to use. The front cupholder
pulls out and swivels 180_ to provide clearance between
tall beverage containers and the manual transmission
shift lever (if equipped).
Your vehicle may have a compact disc holder in
the console.

Armrest Storage Compartment
(If Equipped)
Your vehicle may have a center armrest storage
compartment in the front bench seat.
To open it, fold down the armrest and press the latch
handle located at the front of the armrest. Then, let the
lid pop up and swing open.

To open it, insert the console key into the lock and
unlock the console. Press the button and swing the
console lid open. The console has a place to store
tissues, pens and a clip to hold business cards.

2-72

The storage compartment has a cassette/compact disc holder.
The holder will store up to six compact disc cases and
five cassette tape cases or a total of 11 cassette tape cases.
If not used to store cassette or compact disc cases, the
storage area can be used to store a laptop computer.
To use the writing table, pull the latch at the rear of the
table and swing the writing table forward. Use it to hold
a pad of paper and a pen.

Tonneau Cover (If Equipped)
1. To remove, unsnap the
cover. Roll up and stow
using the buckle and the
strap located at the front
of the box.

A. Back rail
B. Side rail
C. Rear bow

D. Center bow
E. Front bow
F. Front rail

Remove the tonneau cover from the notch in the front
rail from the driver’s side of the vehicle.

2-73

3. To add cargo to the box,
remove all bows and the
back rail and stow
them safely.

2. Remove the three bows by gently pushing them
against the spring-loaded end. The three bows are
labeled front/center/rear to remind you in which
order to reinstall them.

2-74

To clean the tonneau cover, use mild soap and water.
If necessary, use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt
trapped in the grain of the material.

Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter
Front Ashtray
The front ashtray is located near the center of the
instrument panel. Pull on the bottom of the ashtray door
to open it.

NOTICE:
If you store paper or other things that burn in
your ashtrays, they could be set on fire by
cigarettes or other smoking materials. That could
cause a fire and possibly damage your vehicle.
Do not store papers and other things that burn in
your ashtrays.

To remove the front ashtray, press the retainer spring
and pull the ashtray toward you. To replace the ashtray,
place the ashtray on the slides at the side of its location
in the instrument panel. Then slide the ashtray back to
its original position.
To use the cigarette lighter, push it in all the way, and let
go. When it’s ready, it will pop back out by itself.

NOTICE:
Holding a cigarette lighter in with your hand
while it’s heating can make it overload, damaging
the lighter and the heating element. Just push the
lighter all the way in and let go. When it’s done,
it will pop back by itself.

2-75

Accessory Power Outlets

Sun Visors
To block out glare, you can swing down the visors.
You can also swing them out to help block glare at the
front and side windows.
The passenger’s side sun visor may have a vanity mirror.

Cellular Telephone (If Equipped)
Your vehicle may be prewired for a cellular telephone.
Please consult your GM dealer or a qualified service
center for further information.

OnStarR System (If Equipped)
Two accessory power outlets are located near the
cigarette lighter. Use these outlets to power mobile
telephones or other devices designed to operate with
vehicle electrical systems.
The cigarette lighter is designed to fit only in the
receptacle to the right of the accessory power outlets.
Certain accessory power plugs may not be compatible
to the accessory power outlets and could result in blown
vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem,
see your dealer for additional information on the
accessory power outlets.

2-76

OnStar is a vehicle communications system that
offers a variety of services and provides a hands-free
communication link between you and the OnStar Center.
A service subscription agreement and fee are required in
order to receive OnStar service. Services are available
24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information,
call 1-888-ONSTAR-7 (1-888-667-8277).

OnStar Services Button: Press this button once
to contact an advisor who will be able to assist you with
these services. If you are not quickly connected, the
system will automatically reset and redial. This ensures
connection to the center; there is no additional action
required. Press the Call Answer/End button to cancel the
automatic redial.
Emergency Button: In an emergency situation,
press the emergency service button. Upon receiving the
call, an advisor at the center will locate your vehicle and
assess the situation. If necessary, the advisor will alert
the nearest emergency service provider.
Call ANSWER/END Button: Use this button
to answer a call. (If you are receiving a call, the audio
system will mute, and the ring will be heard). Press this
button at the end of a call to disconnect and return the
audio system to its previous settings. This button will
also cancel a call if one of the buttons is accidentally
pressed or if the automatic redial function is activated.

Telltale Light: This light will indicate the status of
the system. A solid green light will come on when you
start the vehicle to let you know that the system is on
and is ready to make or receive calls.
If the light blinks green it means that an incoming or
outgoing call is in progress. Press the Call ANSWER/END
button if you notice the light blinking and you are not
on a call.
The light will be red in the event of an OnStar system
malfunction. If this occurs press the OnStar button to
attempt to contact an advisor. If the connection is made,
the advisor will assist you with steps to take to make
sure that the system is functioning properly. If you
cannot contact the advisor, take your vehicle to your
dealership as soon as possible for assistance.

Volume Control: You can control the volume of the
OnStar System using either the volume control knob on
the radio or using the steering wheel controls, if equipped.

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Safety and Security Services
D Automatic Notification of Air Bag
Deployment -- If an air bag deploys, a priority
emergency signal is sent automatically to the center.
An advisor will locate your vehicle’s position, try to
contact you and assist you in the situation. If the
center is unable to contact you, an emergency service
provider will be contacted.

D Stolen Vehicle Tracking -- Call the center at
1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827) to report your
vehicle stolen. The system can then locate and track
your vehicle and the advisor will be able to notify
the proper authorities.

D Roadside Assistance with Location -- For vehicle
breakdowns, press the OnStar button. An advisor
will contact the appropriate help.

D Remote Diagnostics -- If an instrument panel

light comes on, the center can perform a check of
the engine on-board computer. An advisor can then
recommend what action needs to be taken.

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D OnStar MED-NET -- Med-Net can store your

personal medical history and provide it to emergency
personnel if necessary.

D Accident Assist -- An advisor can provide
step-by-step guidance following an accident.
D Remote Door Unlock -- To contact the center, call
1-888-4-ONSTAR. You will be required to provide
your security information. An advisor will send a
command to your vehicle to unlock itself. The
advisor can delay unlocking your vehicle. Remote
Door Unlock is disabled 48 hours after the vehicle is
parked to maintain the battery charge.

D Vehicle Locator Service -- To contact the center,
call 1-888-4-ONSTAR. You will be required to
provide your security information. An advisor will
send a command to your vehicle to sound the horn
and/or flash the lamps.
In order to provide you with excellent service, calls with
the OnStar Center may be monitored or recorded.

Premium Services (Includes Safety
and Security Services)
D Route Support -- An advisor can provide directions

or guidance to anywhere you want to go. In addition,
they can help you locate gas stations, rest areas,
ATMs, hospitals, hotels, stores, eateries and more.

D Concierge Services -- The concierge advisor can

obtain tickets, reservations or help with vacation/trip
planning and other unique items and services.

D Ride Assist -- An advisor can locate transportation
in the event that you are unable to drive.

OnStar System Limitations
Complete limitations can be found on the subscriber
services agreement.
OnStar Service is:

D subject to limitations caused by atmospheric

conditions, such as severe weather or topographical
conditions, such as mountainous terrain.

D subject to cellular carrier equipment limitations.
Global positioning capabilities used to deliver service
will not be available if satellite signals are obstructed.
OnStar will not function if the vehicle’s battery is
discharged or disconnected. It may also be inoperative
if the vehicle is in an accident and the OnStar or vehicle
electrical system components are damaged.
Safety and security services are provided by existing
governmental emergency service providers. OnStar
will use reasonable efforts to contact the appropriate
emergency service provider and request assistance
but cannot promise that they will respond to the
call in a timely manner or at all.

D available in the 48 contiguous United States, Alaska,
Hawaii and Canada;

D available when the vehicle is within the operating
range of a cellular provider;

2-79

The Instrument Panel - Your Information System

2-80

The main components of your instrument panel are the following:
A. Dome Lamp Switch

K. Glove Box

B. Lamp Controls

L. Passenger Air Bag Off Switch

C. Air Outlets

M. Manual Selectable Ride Control (If Equipped)

D. Automatic Transfer Case (If Equipped)/Electronic
Transfer Case (If Equipped)/Traction Assist
System (If Equipped)

N. Ashtray

E. Multifunction Lever
F. Instrument Cluster
G. Gearshift Lever (Automatic Transmission)
H. Tow/Haul Selector Switch
I. Audio System
J. Comfort Control System

O. Storage Area or Compact Disc Player (If Equipped)
P. Rear Window Defogger Switch (If Equipped)
Q. Lighter and Accessory Power Outlets
R. Parking Brake Release
S. Tilt Lever (If Equipped)
T. Center Instrument Panel Utility Block
U. Hood Release
V. Instrument Panel Fuse Block

2-81

Instrument Panel Cluster

United States Heavy Duty Automatic Transmission version shown.
Canada, Light Duty Automatic and Manual Transmission clusters similar.

2-82

Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a
glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how
fast you’re going, about how much fuel you have and
many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely
and economically.

Speedometer and Odometer
Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles
per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your
odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven,
in either miles (used in the United States) or
kilometers (used in Canada).
Trip Odometer
The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has
been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero.
Press the reset button to toggle between the trip
odometer and the regular odometer. Holding the reset
button for two seconds while the trip odometer is
displayed will reset it.
To display the odometer reading with the ignition off,
press the reset button.

Engine Hour Meter Display
The odometer can also display the number of hours the
engine has run. To display the hour meter, turn the
ignition off, press and hold the reset button for at least
four seconds. The hour meter will be displayed for up to
30 seconds, or until the ignition is turned on.

Tachometer
Your tachometer displays the engine speed in
revolutions per minute (rpm).

NOTICE:
On vehicles with a manual transmission, if you
operate the engine with the tachometer in the
red area, your engine or other parts could
be damaged.
Damage to your engine or vehicle caused by
operating the engine in the red area isn’t covered
by your vehicle warranty. Don’t operate the
engine with the tachometer in the red area.

2-83

Warning Lights, Gages
and Indicators
This part describes the warning lights and gages that
may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you
locate them.
Warning lights and gages can signal that something is
wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an
expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to
your warning lights and gages could also save you or
others from injury.
Warning lights come on when there may be or is a
problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you
will see in the details on the next few pages, some
warning lights come on briefly when you start the
engine just to let you know they’re working. If you are
familiar with this section, you should not be alarmed
when this happens.
Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem
with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and
warning lights work together to let you know when
there’s a problem with your vehicle.

When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on
when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows
there may be a problem, check the section that tells you
what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice.
Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even
dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights
and gages. They’re a big help.
Your vehicle may also have a driver information system
that works along with the warning lights and gages.
See “Message Center” in the Index.

Safety Belt Reminder Light
When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will
come on for about six seconds to remind people to
fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is
already buckled.
The safety belt light will
also come on and stay on
for about 20 seconds, then
it will flash for
about 55 seconds.

If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the chime
nor the light will come on.

2-84

Air Bag Readiness Light
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument
panel, which shows the air bag symbol. The system
checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions.
The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The
system check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag
modules, the wiring, the passenger air bag suppression
circuit and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For
more information on the air bag system, see “Air Bag”
in the Index.
This light will come on
when you start your vehicle,
and it will flash for a few
seconds. Then the light
should go out. This means
the system is ready.

CAUTION:
If the air bag readiness light stays on after you
start your vehicle, it means the air bag system
may not be working properly. The air bags in
your vehicle may not inflate in a crash, or they
could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid
injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle
serviced right away if the air bag readiness light
stays on after you start your vehicle.
The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds
when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light
doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to
warn you if there is a problem.

If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the
vehicle or comes on when you are driving, your air bag
system may not work properly. Have your vehicle
serviced right away.

2-85

Air Bag Off Light
When you turn the right front passenger’s air bag off,
this light will come on and stay on to remind you that
the air bag has been turned off. This light will go off
when you turn the air bag back on again. See “Air Bag
Off Switch” in the Index for more on this, including
important safety information.

2-86

Voltmeter

CAUTION:
If the air bag readiness light ever comes on when
you have turned off the air bag, it means that
something may be wrong with the air bag system.
The right front passenger’s air bag could inflate
even though the switch is off.
If your vehicle is a regular cab pickup and this
ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the
national government has identified as a member
of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right
front passenger’s position (for example, don’t
secure a rear-facing child restraint in your
vehicle) until you have your vehicle serviced.
If your vehicle is an extended cab pickup and this
ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the
national government has identified as a member
of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right
front passenger’s position (for example, don’t
secure a rear-facing child restraint in the right
front passenger’s seat) until you have your
vehicle serviced.

United States

Canada

When your engine is not running, but the ignition is in
RUN, this gage shows your battery’s state of charge
in DC volts.
When the engine is running, the gage shows the
condition of the charging system. Readings between the
low and high warning zones indicate the normal
operating range.

2-87

Readings in the low warning zone may occur when a
large number of electrical accessories are operating in
the vehicle and the engine is left at an idle for an
extended period. This condition is normal since the
charging system is not able to provide full power at
engine idle. As engine speeds are increased, this
condition should correct itself as higher engine speeds
allow the charging system to create maximum power.
You can only drive for a short time with the reading in
either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all
unnecessary accessories.
Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible
problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle
serviced as soon as possible.

Brake System Warning Light
With the ignition on, the brake system warning light will
flash when you set the parking brake. The light will flash
if the parking brake doesn’t release fully. If you try to
drive with the parking brake engaged, a chime will sound
when the vehicle speed is greater than 3 mph (5 km/h).
Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into
two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can
still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you
need both parts working well.
If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake
problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.

Shift Light (If Equipped)
This light is used on
some models with
manual transmissions.
United States
The SHIFT indicator light will help you get the best fuel
economy. See “Shift Light” or “Shift Speeds” in the
index for more information.

2-88

Canada

This light should come on briefly when you turn the
ignition key to RUN. If it doesn’t come on then, have it
fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.
If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the
road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is
harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor.
It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the
vehicle towed for service. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in
the Index.

CAUTION:
Your brake system may not be working properly
if the brake system warning light is on. Driving
with the brake system warning light on can lead
to an accident. If the light is still on after you’ve
pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have
the vehicle towed for service.

Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
With the anti-lock brake
system, this light will come
on when you start your
engine and may stay on
for several seconds.
That’s normal.
If the light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving,
your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system
warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you
don’t have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system
warning light is also on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes
and there’s a problem with your regular brakes. See
“Brake System Warning Light” earlier in this section.
The anti-lock brake system warning light should come
on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the
light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be
ready to warn you if there is a problem.

2-89

Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

United States

Transmission Temperature Gage
(If Equipped)

Canada
United States

Canada

This gage shows the engine coolant temperature.
It also provides an indicator of how hard your vehicle is
working. During a majority of the operation, the gage
will read 210_F (100_C) or less. If you are pulling a
load or going up hills, it is normal for the temperature to
fluctuate and approach the 250_F (122_C) mark. If the
gage reaches the 260_F (125_C) mark, it indicates that
the cooling system is working beyond its capacity.
See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

2-90

Your vehicle may be equipped with a transmission
temperature gage.
When your ignition is on, the gage shows the temperature
of the transmission fluid. The normal operating range is
from 100_F (38_C) to about 265_F (130_C).

At approximately 265_F (130_C), the message center
will display a TRANS FLUID HOT message and the
transmission will enter a transmission protection mode.
When the transmission enters the protection mode, you
may notice a change in the transmission shifting
patterns. The transmission will return to normal shifting
patterns when the transmission fluid temperature falls
below 260_F (127_C).

NOTICE:
If you keep driving your vehicle with the
transmission temperature gage above the normal
operating range, you can damage the
transmission. This could lead to costly repairs
that may not be covered under your warranty.

See “Message Center” in the Index for
further information.
If the transmission fluid reaches temperatures of
approximately 275_F (135_C) or greater, the message
center will display a TRANS HOT...IDLE ENG warning
message. Pull the vehicle off the roadway when it is safe
to do so. Set the parking brake, place the transmission
in PARK (P) and allow the engine to idle until the
transmission temperature falls below 260_F (127_C).
If the transmission continues to operate above
265_F (130_C), please contact your nearest dealer
or the GM Roadside Assistance Center.

The following situations can cause the transmission to
operate at higher temperatures:

D
D
D
D
D
D

Towing a trailer
Hot outside air temperatures
Hauling a large or heavy load
Low transmission fluid level
High transmission fluid level
Restricted air flow to the radiator and the auxiliary
transmission oil cooler (if equipped).

A temporary solution to hotter transmission operating
temperatures may be to let the transmission cool down.
If the transmission is operated at higher temperatures on
a frequent basis, see “Scheduled Maintenance” in the
Index for the proper transmission maintenance intervals.

2-91

Low Traction Light (If Equipped)
If you have the Traction
Assist System, this light
will come on when the
system is limiting wheel
spin. See “Traction Assist
System” in the Index.
You may feel or hear the system working or notice a
lack of accelerator response, but this is normal.
The LOW TRACTION light also comes on briefly when
you turn your ignition to RUN. If the light doesn’t come
on then, the system may require service; have it fixed so
it will be there to tell you when the Traction Assist
System is active. Slippery road conditions may exist if
the LOW TRACTION light comes on, so adjust your
driving accordingly.

2-92

Traction Off Light (If Equipped)
If you have the Traction
Assist System, this light
should come on briefly
when you turn the ignition
to RUN.

If the light doesn’t come on then, the system may
require service; have it fixed so it will be there to warn
you if the system is turned off.
If the TRACTION OFF light stays on, or comes on
when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your
Traction Assist System and your vehicle may need
service. When this light is on, the system will not limit
wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.

The TRACTION OFF light may come on for the
following reasons:
D If you turn the system off by pressing the TAS on/off
button the light will come on and stay on. To turn the
system back on, press the button again; the light
should go off.
D If you move the shift lever to FIRST (1), the light
will come on and stay on to indicate that the Traction
Assist System is off. This is normal operation. To
turn the system back on, move the shift lever back to
a position other than FIRST (1); the light should go
off. See “Traction Assist System” in the Index.
D The light will come on and stay on if the TAS automatic
engagement feature has been turned off. To turn the
system on, press the TAS off/on button; the light should
go off. To turn the automatic engagement feature back
on, see “Traction Assist System” in the Index.
D If the Traction Assist System is affected by an
anti-lock brake system, Traction Assist System or
engine-related problem, the system will turn off and
the light will come on. Have your vehicle serviced.
D If the vehicle is driven over an extremely rough road,
the system will turn off and the light will come on.
The light will go off a few seconds after the rough
road conditions go away or when the vehicle comes
to a complete stop. This is normal operation.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service
Engine Soon Light in the United States or
Check Engine Light in Canada)

United States

Canada

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors
operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems.
This system is called OBD II (On-Board
Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure
that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the
vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The
SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light
comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service
is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the
system before any problem is apparent. This may prevent
more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also
designed to assist your service technician in correctly
diagnosing any malfunction.

2-93

NOTICE:
If you keep driving your vehicle with this light
on, after a while, your emission controls may not
work as well, your fuel economy may not be as
good and your engine may not run as smoothly.
This could lead to costly repairs that may not be
covered by your warranty.

This light should come on, as a check to show you it is
working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not
running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.
This light will also come on during a malfunction in one
of two ways:

D Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been

detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and
may damage the emission control system on your
vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis
and service may be required.

D Light On Steady -- An emission control system
malfunction has been detected on your vehicle.
Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and
service may be required.

NOTICE:
Modifications made to the engine, transmission,
exhaust or fuel system of your vehicle or the
replacement of the original tires with other than
those of the same Tire Performance Criteria
(TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission controls
and may cause the SERVICE ENGINE SOON
or CHECK ENGINE light to come on.
Modifications to these systems could lead to
costly repairs not covered by your warranty. This
may also result in a failure to pass a required
Emission Inspection/Maintenance test.

2-94

If the Light Is Flashing
The following may prevent more serious damage to
your vehicle:

D
D
D
D

Reducing vehicle speed.
Avoiding hard accelerations.
Avoiding steep uphill grades.
If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of
cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see
“If the Light Is On Steady” following.
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so,
stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle.
Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the
engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light
Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing,
follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your
dealer or qualified service center for service.
If the Light Is On Steady
You may be able to correct the emission system
malfunction by considering the following:
Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle?
If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install
the cap. See “Filling Your Tank” in the Index. The
diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been
left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel
cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A
few driving trips with the cap properly installed should
turn the light off.

Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water?
If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition
will usually be corrected when the electrical system
dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.
Have you recently changed brands of fuel?
If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel.
See “Fuel” in the Index. Poor fuel quality will cause your
engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may
notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put
the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration
or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions may go
away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected
by the system and cause the light to turn on.
If you experience one or more of these conditions,
change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least
one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.
If none of the above steps have made the light turn off,
have your dealer or qualified service center check the
vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and
diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical
problems that may have developed.

2-95

Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs

Oil Pressure Gage

Some state/provincial and local governments have or may
begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment
on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could
prevent you from getting a vehicle registration.
Here are some things you need to know in order to help
your vehicle pass an inspection:
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the
SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light is
on or not working properly.
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the
OBD (on-board diagnostic) system determines that
critical emission control systems have not been
completely diagnosed by the system. The vehicle would
be considered not ready for inspection. This can happen
if you have recently replaced your battery or if your
battery has run down. The diagnostic system is designed
to evaluate critical emission control systems during
normal driving. This may take several days of routine
driving. If you have done this and your vehicle still does
not pass the inspection for lack of OBD system
readiness, see your dealer or qualified service center to
prepare the vehicle for inspection.

2-96

United States

Canada

The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in
psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running.
Canadian vehicles indicate pressure in kPa (kilopascals).
Oil pressure may vary with engine speed, outside
temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the
low pressure zone indicate the normal operating range.
A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by
a dangerously low oil level or some other problem
causing low oil pressure. Check your oil as soon as
possible. See “Check Eng Oil Pressure” and
“Engine Oil” in the Index.

Cruise Light (If Equipped)

CAUTION:
Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low.
If you do, your engine can become so hot that it
catches fire. You or others could be burned.
Check your oil as soon as possible and have your
vehicle serviced.

NOTICE:

United States

Canada

The CRUISE light comes on whenever you set your
cruise control. See “Cruise Control” in the Index.

4WD Light (If Equipped)
Damage to your engine from neglected oil
problems can be costly and is not covered by
your warranty.

The 4WD indicator will
light up when you shift a
manual transfer case into
four-wheel drive and the
front axle engages.

Some delay between shifting and the indicator’s lighting
is normal.
See “Four-Wheel Drive” in the Index for more information.

2-97

Tow/Haul Light
(Automatic Transmissions Only)
This message is displayed
when the tow/haul mode has
been activated.

When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about
how much fuel you have left in your tank.
The gage will first indicate E (Empty) before you are out
of fuel, and you should get more fuel as soon as possible.
Here are some situations you may experience with your fuel
gage. None of these indicate a problem with the fuel gage.

D At the gas station, the fuel pump shuts off before the
gage reads F (Full).

D It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the
For more information see, “Tow/Haul Mode” in the Index.

Fuel Gage

fuel gage indicated. For example, the gage may have
indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a
little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill
the tank.

D The gage goes back to E (Empty) when you turn off
the ignition.

If you have a diesel engine, see “Fuel Gage” in the
Diesel Engine Supplement.

United States

2-98

Canada

Message Center
The message center is located on the left side of the
instrument panel cluster. It gives you important safety
and maintenance facts. When you turn the ignition on,
the entire center lights up for just a few seconds.
As needed, the message center will display one of the
following messages. The message center is capable of
alternating among different messages if needed.

If the message stays on after starting the engine it could
indicate a problem with the generator drive belt, or some
other charging system problem. Have it checked right
away. Driving with this message displayed could drain
your battery.
If you must drive a short distance with this message
displayed, it helps to turn off all your accessories, such
as the radio and the air conditioner.

Trans Fluid Hot

Battery
If this message is displayed
when the engine is running,
you may have a problem
with your charging system.

If you have an automatic transmission, you have a
transmission temperature warning display contained in
the message center.
If the transmission fluid
temperature becomes high,
the message center will
display this message.

The battery display will also stay on while the key is in
RUN until the engine is started.

2-99

When the transmission enters the protection mode you
may notice a change in the transmission shifting
patterns. When the transmission fluid temperature
returns to normal, the display will turn off and the
transmission shifting patterns will return to normal.

NOTICE:
If you keep driving your vehicle with the
transmission TRANS FLUID HOT message
displayed, you can damage the transmission.
This could lead to costly repairs that may not be
covered under your warranty.

2-100

The following situations can cause the transmission to
operate at higher temperatures:

D
D
D
D
D
D

Trans Hot...Idle Engine

NOTICE:

If you have an automatic transmission, you have a
transmission over-temperature display contained in
the message center.

If you keep driving your vehicle with the
transmission TRANS HOT...IDLE ENGINE
message displayed, you can damage the
transmission. This could lead to costly repairs
that may not be covered under your warranty.

If this warning message is
displayed, pull the vehicle
off the roadway when it is
safe to do so.

The following situations can cause the transmission to
operate at higher temperatures:
Set the parking brake and place the transmission in
PARK (P). Idle the engine until the message center no
longer displays a message. If idling the engine does not
turn the warning message off after 10 to 15 minutes,
contact your nearest dealer or the GM Roadside Assistance
Center. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index.

D
D
D
D
D
D

Towing a trailer
Hot outside air temperatures
Hauling a heavy load
Low transmission fluid level
High transmission fluid level
Restricted air flow to the radiator and the auxiliary
transmission oil cooler (if equipped).

2-101

Low Coolant

Engine Overheated
This message is displayed
when the cooling system is
low on coolant.

The engine may overheat. See “Engine Coolant” in the
Index and have your vehicle serviced as soon as you can.

Check Coolant Temp
This message is displayed
when the cooling system
temperature gets hot.

Check the coolant temperature gage and the coolant
level. See “Engine Coolant” and “Engine Coolant
Temperature Gage” in the Index. See “Engine
Overheating” in the Index for further information.

2-102

This message is displayed
when the cooling system
temperature gets too hot.

This message will be displayed after the air conditioning
system has automatically turned off for the engine
coolant protection mode. See “Engine Overheating” in
the Index for further information.

Reduced Engine Power
(V8 Gasoline Engines Only)
This message is displayed
when the cooling system
temperature gets too hot and
the engine further enters
the engine coolant
protection mode.
If your vehicle is equipped with the 8.1L engine, this
light may come on because of an electronic throttle
control system fault. See “Engine Overheating” in
the Index for further information.

Check Eng Oil Pressure

Change Engine Oil

This message is displayed
when the engine oil pressure
is low.

See “Oil Pressure Gage” in the Index for more information.

Check Eng Oil Level (Gasoline Engine)
This message is displayed
when the engine oil level
is low.

Once oil is added, it may need time to drain and settle in
the engine before this message will turn off. It is best to
let the engine cool down (if it is hot) or warm up (if it is
cold) and cycle the ignition to be sure this message turns
off. Refer to the dipstick for the correct level.
See “Engine Oil” in the Index on how to check the oil
level and for what type of oil to add.

This message is displayed
when the engine oil needs to
be changed. The message
is only displayed for
15 seconds at the start of
each ignition cycle.
When you change the engine oil, be sure to reset the
Engine Oil Life Monitor. See “Engine Oil, When to
Change” in the Index.

Security
This message is
displayed when the content
theft-deterrent system has
been activated and
also monitors the
PasslockR System.
If the security message is displayed continuously while
driving and stays on, there may be a problem with the
Passlock System. Your vehicle will not be protected by
Passlock, and you should see your GM dealer.

2-103

Service 4WD (If Equipped)

Cargo Lamp On

If the SERVICE 4WD
message comes on, there
may be a problem with the
automatic transfer case and
service is required.

Malfunctions can be indicated by the system before any
problem is apparent, which may prevent serious damage to
the vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your
service technician in correctly diagnosing a malfunction.

Low Washer Fluid
This message is displayed
when the vehicle is low on
windshield washer fluid.
The message is only
displayed for 15 seconds
at the start of each
ignition cycle.
For more information see, “Windshield Washer Fluid” in
the Index.

2-104

This message is displayed
when the cargo lamp is
turned on and the ignition
key is turned to RUN.

Low Fuel
This message is displayed
when your vehicle is low
on fuel.

Refer to the fuel gage for a better indication of the
amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank.

Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle.
Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle.
3-2
3-2
3-3
3-5
3-12
3-13
3-13
3-13
3-14
3-16
3-16
3-16

Comfort Controls
Standard Comfort Controls
Heater and Air Conditioning Comfort
Controls (If Equipped)
Electronic Climate Control System
(If Equipped)
Air Conditioning
Heating
Defogging and Defrosting
Rear Window Defogger (If Equipped)
Ventilation System
Audio Systems
Setting the Clock for Systems with
SET Button
Setting the Clock for Systems with HR and
MN Buttons

3-16
3-18
3-20
3-25
3-29
3-30
3-32
3-33
3-34
3-35
3-35
3-35

AM-FM Stereo
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player
(If Equipped)
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and
Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and
Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)
Remote Cassette Tape Player (If Equipped)
Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped)
Understanding Radio Reception
Tips About Your Audio System
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
Care of Your Compact Discs
Care of Your Compact Disc Player
Fixed Mast Antenna

3-1

Comfort Controls

Mode Knob

Standard Comfort Controls

The right knob on the control panel allows you to
choose the direction of air delivery.
VENT: This setting directs the air through the
instrument panel outlets.
BI-LEVEL: Air is delivered through the heater
floor outlets as well as the instrument panel outlets.
The air flow can be divided between VENT and
HEATER depending upon where the knob is placed
between the settings.

Fan Knob
The knob on the left side of the control panel adjusts the
fan speed. To increase airflow, turn the knob clockwise.
To decrease airflow, turn it counterclockwise. To turn
the fan off, turn the knob to OFF.
Temperature Knob
The middle knob on the control panel lets you select the
temperature of the air flowing into the passenger area.
Turn the knob clockwise toward the red area for warmer
air. Turn the knob counterclockwise toward the blue area
for cooler air.

3-2

HEATER: This setting directs most of the
warmed air through the heater floor outlets, and the rest
of the air is divided between the windshield defroster
outlets and the side window defroster outlets.
BLEND: Airflow is delivered through the heater
floor outlets, the windshield defroster outlets and the
side window defroster outlets. The air flow can be
divided between HEATER and DEFROST depending
upon where the knob is placed between the settings.
DEFROST: This setting directs most air through
the windshield defroster outlets, side window defroster
outlets and some through the heater outlets.

Heater and Air Conditioning Comfort
Controls (If Equipped)

Mode Knob
The right knob on the control panel allows you to
choose the direction of air delivery.
PANEL: This setting directs the air through the
instrument panel outlets and the center floor console
(if equipped).

BI-LEVEL: Air is delivered through the
instrument panel outlets and center floor console outlets
(if equipped) as well as the heater floor outlets. The air
flow can be divided between PANEL and HEATER
depending upon where the knob is placed between the
settings. Pressing the A/C button while in this mode
causes cooler air to come out of the instrument panel
outlets and center floor console outlets (if equipped)
and warmer air to come out of the heater floor outlets.
HEATER: This setting directs most of the
warmed air through the heater floor outlets and center
floor console outlets (if equipped), as well as some
air through the windshield defroster outlets and side
window defroster outlets. If air from the center floor
console outlets is not desired, turn the vents off at
the console.

3-3

BLEND: Airflow is delivered through the heater
floor outlets, center floor console outlets (if equipped),
the windshield defroster outlets and the side window
defroster outlets. The air flow can be divided between
HEATER and DEFROST depending upon where
the knob is placed between the settings. The air
conditioning compressor may run to dehumidify the
air to prevent window fogging.
DEFROST: This setting directs most of the air
through the windshield defroster outlets, side window
defroster outlets and some air through the heater outlets
and center floor console outlets (if equipped). If air from
the center floor console outlets is not desired or more
defroster performance is desired, turn the vents off at
the console. When in the DEFROST mode, the air
conditioning compressor may run to dehumidify the
air to prevent window fogging.
OUTSIDE AIR: Press this button to direct
the system to use outside air.
Pressing the OUTSIDE AIR button will cancel the
RECIRCULATION button.

3-4

RECIRCULATION: Press this button to
limit the amount of outside air entering your vehicle.
This is helpful when you are trying to limit odors
entering your vehicle or attempting to quickly cool
down the interior. Pressing RECIRCULATION will
recirculate air continuously.
RECIRCULATION is used when the fan control is OFF
to limit odors, outside air and dust from entering your
vehicle. All button lights will go off. The last setting
selected will activate when the blower is turned back on.
Pressing the RECIRCULATION button will cancel
the OUTSIDE AIR button. To return to normal
operation and to prevent stale air, be sure to return
the OUTSIDE AIR.
Between HEATER and BLEND mode, outside air is forced
to reduce window fogging. If the RECIRCULATION
button is pressed, the LED indicator will flash three
times indicating that forced outside air is activated and
RECIRCULATION is not available.

The auto recirculation feature will activate when the
following are true:

D the air conditioning system is activated,
D the OUTSIDE AIR button is on, and
D the vehicle load is high due to city traffic,

Electronic Climate Control System
(If Equipped)

extended idling or hot weather.

The system will automatically switch to the recirculation
mode to lower the system load and improve interior
comfort. The OUTSIDE AIR and RECIRCULATION
button LEDs will not change. The system will return
to the OUTSIDE AIR function when the system load
is reduced.
A/C: Press this button to turn the air conditioning
on and off. The system will cool and dehumidify the air
inside the vehicle when the A/C light is on.
Air conditioning will be automatically disabled when
the outside temperature drops below a level at which
air conditioning is ineffective.

Fan Control
The knob on the left side of the electronic climate control
panel operates the fan speed. To manually increase
airflow, move the knob clockwise. To manually decrease
airflow, move it counterclockwise.
OFF: If the knob is in OFF, outside air will still enter
the vehicle, and will be directed based on the position of
the mode knob.

3-5

AUTO: If the knob is in AUTO, the fan speed will vary
as the system maintains the selected temperature.
When both the fan control and mode knobs are in the
AUTO position, the system will then automatically
maintain the desired cabin temperature as selected by
the temperature knob. Manual control of functions is
also available.
Temperature Knob
The middle knob on the control panel lets you select
the desired air temperature in your vehicle. This knob
will allow you to adjust the interior air temperature
independent of the function knob setting. Move the
knob clockwise toward 82 for warmer air. Move the knob
counterclockwise toward 66 for cooler air. When the
system is set for automatic operation, sensors will control
the fan/blower speed.
Full Hot: If you turn the temperature knob past 82_F
(28_C), the system will go into the “full hot” mode.
The system will remain at that maximum heating setting
and the fan will blow at the speed the fan knob is set to.
If the fan is in AUTO, it will run at full speed.
Full Cold: If you turn the temperature knob past 66_F
(19_C), the system will go into the “full cold” mode.

3-6

The system will remain at that maximum cooling setting
and the fan will blow at the speed the fan knob is set to.
If the fan is in AUTO, it will run at full speed.
Mode Knob -- Automatic Operation
The right knob on the control panel allows you to
choose the direction of air delivery. When the system is
set for automatic operation, sensors will control the air
delivery mode. Air will come primarily from the floor or
instrument panel outlets, with some air directed to the
windshield to prevent fogging.
When the system is in AUTO mode, the air conditioning
light will turn on, and the recirculation and outside
air lights turn off. With the system in full auto control
(both the fan and mode knobs in AUTO), you still
have the ability to override any function. However,
continually overriding the outside air or the A/C
compressor will limit the ability of the system to
cool the vehicle quickly.
If you push a button for a function which is not
available, the light next to that button will flash
three times to alert you that it’s not available.
To find your comfort zone, start with the 74_F (23_C)
setting and allow about 20 minutes for the system to
adjust the temperature if necessary.

With the automatic setting, the air conditioning
compressor automatically cycles when needed to cool the
air. In cold weather, when the system senses the need for
heat, the airflow will be directed out of the floor outlets.
As the interior temperature approaches a desired setting,
the blower speed will decrease. To maintain interior
comfort, the airflow will adjust between the instrument
panel air outlets and floor outlets. On bright sunny days
in cool weather, the airflow may come out of the air
conditioning and floor outlets (bi-level mode) to
maintain comfort and prevent stuffiness.
To avoid blowing cold air in cold weather, the system
will delay turning on the fan until warm air is available.
The length of delay depends on the outside air
temperature, engine coolant temperature or the time since
the engine was last started. As the coolant warms up, the
fan speed will gradually increase and air will flow from
the heater outlets, with some airflow to the windshield
to prevent fogging under most normal conditions.
Be careful not to put anything over the solar sensor
located around the center of the instrument panel.
This sensor is used by the automatic system to
regulate temperature.

Mode Knob -- Manual Operation
The right knob on the control panel allows you to
choose the direction of air delivery.
You can choose to set the climate control system
yourself, or let the system work for you by placing the
system in AUTO mode. See “Mode Knob -- Automatic
Operation” earlier in this section.
PANEL: This setting directs most of the air
through the instrument panel outlets and a small amount
through the floor outlets.
BI-LEVEL: Air is delivered through the heater
floor outlets as well as the instrument panel outlets.
HEATER: This setting directs most of the
warmed air through the heater floor outlets and some
air through the windshield defroster outlets.
BLEND: Airflow is divided equally between the
heater floor outlet and the windshield defroster outlets.
The air conditioning compressor may run to dehumidify
the air to prevent window fogging.

3-7

DEFROST: This setting directs most air through
the windshield defroster outlets and some through the
heater outlets. The air conditioning compressor may run
to dehumidify the air to prevent window fogging.
OUTSIDE AIR: Press this button to force the
system to use outside air. Press it again to close off the
outside air.
Pressing the OUTSIDE AIR button will cancel the
RECIRCULATION button.
RECIRCULATION: Press this button to limit
the amount of outside air entering your vehicle. This is
helpful when you are trying to limit odors entering your
vehicle or attempting to quickly cool down the interior.
In the AUTO mode, the system will use recirculation
as necessary to cool the air. Pressing the recirculation
button will change the operation to a manual mode and
the air will recirculate non-stop. Press this button again
to turn off the recirculation feature.

3-8

RECIRCULATION may be selected with the fan control
in OFF to limit odors, outside air and dust from entering
your vehicle.
Pressing the RECIRCULATION button will cancel the
OUTSIDE AIR button.
A/C: Press this button to turn the air conditioning
on and off. The system will cool and dehumidify the
air inside the vehicle when the A/C light is on.
When in AUTO, the A/C is automatically engaged
when necessary.
Air conditioning will be automatically disabled when
the outside temperature drops below a level which
air conditioning is ineffective.
Remember that in order for the automatic system to perform
well, it needs A/C to provide cooling performance.

Rear Air Conditioning and Heating Systems
(If Equipped)
If your vehicle has one of these systems, you can increase
and decrease the airflow at the rear vents. Depending on
the system you have and the setting selected, you can
send cooled or heated air to the rear of the vehicle.

The knob has three speed positions. To increase the flow
of cooled air, turn the switch toward 3. To decrease the
flow of cooled air, turn it toward 1. To turn the fan off,
turn the knob to OFF.
To operate the rear system using the front control,
just turn the knob to select the fan speed.

Rear Air Conditioning (Without Rear Heater)
(If Equipped)

Rear Control
Front Control

To use the rear control, first turn the front control knob
to REAR. Then, the rear control can be used to increase
and decrease the airflow.

To increase and decrease the flow of cooled air to the rear
vents, turn the rotary knob to the fan speed you want.

3-9

Rear Air Conditioning and Rear Heater
(If Equipped)
If your vehicle has the rear air conditioning and rear
heater system combination, controls are provided to
regulate temperature, location and speed of the airflow.

Generally, the upper vents are used for air conditioning
and the floor vents for heating. The knob can be set to
any blend setting.
To adjust the air temperature, turn the temperature knob
on the center of the control panel.
For warmer air, turn the knob clockwise toward red.
For cooler air, turn the knob counterclockwise toward blue.

Front Control
To adjust the airflow speed, turn the fan control knob
located on the left side to the desired setting.
To activate the second seat control system, turn the fan
knob on the front overhead control to REAR.
To regulate the airflow location, adjust the right knob on
the control panel. Turn the knob clockwise for floor vent
airflow or counterclockwise for headliner vent airflow.

3-10

Rear Control
The rear control works just like the front control. It will
allow second seat passengers to adjust the controls as
they desire. To use the rear control, first turn the front
knob to REAR.

Rear Air Conditioning and Heating Systems
with Electronic Climate Control System
(If Equipped)

With this system the rear passengers can control the
temperature of the air flow for his/her own zones.
The climate control has three controls.
To adjust the airflow speed, turn the fan knob located on
the left side of the control panel to the desired fan speed.
The system also has a front AUTO setting that can
automatically change the temperature of the rear seating
area based on information from the front control.
An OFF setting, located on the front climate control
panel, also allows the driver to turn off the rear
passenger seat controls from the front seat.
To adjust the air temperature, turn the temperature knob
on the center of the control panel.

Front Control

For warmer air, turn the knob clockwise toward
82_F (28_C). Turn the knob counterclockwise
toward 66_F (19_C) for cooler air.
To regulate the airflow location, adjust the right knob on
the control panel. Turn the knob clockwise for floor vent
airflow or counterclockwise for headliner vent airflow.
Generally, the upper vents are used for air conditioning
and the floor vents for heating. The knob can be set to
any blend setting.
For rear control operation, use the above instructions.

Rear Control

3-11

Air Conditioning
On hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot
air inside escape. This reduces the time it takes for your
vehicle to cool down. Then keep your windows closed
for the air conditioner to work its best.
The RECIRCULATION button allows the air inside
your vehicle to be recirculated. This setting helps to
maximize your air conditioner’s performance and
your vehicle’s fuel economy. This setting also cools air
the fastest and can be used to keep unwanted odors
and/or dust from entering the vehicle. When using the
air conditioner, turn off the RECIRCULATION
button after the vehicle reaches a comfortable interior
temperature. When the right knob on the control panel
is between HEATER and DEFROST, the recirculation
feature will not function to reduce window fogging.
The A/C button, below the mode knob, allows the
air coming into your vehicle to be cooled. This setting
is useful for normal cooling on hot days.

3-12

When you use A/C with the RECIRCULATION button
pushed in, turn off recirculation as soon as the vehicle
reaches a comfortable interior temperature.
Maximum air conditioning performance is obtained by
pressing the A/C button, the RECIRCULATION button
and turning the temperature knob fully counterclockwise
to the blue area. This setting also cools air the fastest.
After the vehicle’s interior reaches a comfortable
temperature, press the OUTSIDE AIR button to
place the air conditioning system in the normal mode.
Passenger Compartment Air Filter (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has air conditioning, it is equipped with
a passenger compartment air filter, which filters outside
air entering the vehicle. For information on replacing
the filter see “Passenger Compartment Air Filter” in
the Index.

Heating

Defogging and Defrosting

The heater works best if you keep your windows closed
while using it. On cold days, use the HEATER or
VENT/HEAT setting with the temperature knob in the
red area.

On cool, humid days, use DEFOG to keep the
windshield and side windows clear. Use DEFROST to
remove fog or ice from the windshield in extremely
humid or cold conditions. Use DEFROST with the
temperature knob toward the red area and the fan
control turned all the way to the right.

On cold days, approximately 32_F (-0_C) or lower,
if your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission,
you may experience differences in how the transmission
shifts until the engine is warm. This feature automatically
reduces the time it takes for the engine to reach normal
operating temperature and shortens the time it takes the
heater to reach full output.
If you use the engine coolant heater before starting your
engine in cold weather, 20_F (-8_C) or lower, the
heating system will produce warmer air faster to heat the
passenger compartment.
The use of an engine coolant heater also reduces the
time it takes for the engine to reach normal operating
temperature. For more information, see “Engine Coolant
Heater” in the Index.

Rear Window Defogger (If Equipped)
If you see lines running across the rear window, you
have a rear window defogger. The lines warm the glass.
To turn on the rear window
defogger, press this button
next to the fan knob.
The rear window
defogger will only work
if the ignition is in RUN.
For best results, clear the
window of as much snow
or ice as possible.

3-13

The defogger will shut itself off after several minutes.
If you need additional warming time, press the button
again. You can turn the defogger off at any time by
pressing the button.
If your vehicle is equipped with heated outside mirrors,
the rear window defogger button will also activate the
heated outside mirrors.
Do not attach a temporary vehicle license, tape or decals
across the defogger grid on the rear window.

NOTICE:
Don’t use a razor blade or something else sharp
on the inside of the rear window. If you do, you
could cut or damage the warming grid, and the
repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

3-14

Ventilation System
For mild outside temperatures when little heating or
cooling is needed, use VENT to direct outside air
through your vehicle. Air will flow through the
instrument panel outlets.
Your vehicle’s ventilation system supplies outside air
to the inside of your vehicle when it is moving.
With the side windows closed, air will flow into the
front air inlet grilles, through the vehicle, and out the
air exhaust valves.
Outside air will also enter the vehicle when the heater
or the air conditioning fan is running, unless you have
the RECIRCULATION button pushed in. For more
information on the RECIRCULATION button,
see “Air Conditioning” earlier in this section.

Your vehicle has air
outlets in the center and
on the sides of your
instrument panel.

Ventilation Tips

D Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or
any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater
and defroster will work far better, reducing the
chance of fogging the inside of your windows.

D When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn the

fan knob all the way to the right for a few moments
before driving. This helps clear the intake ducts of
snow and moisture, and reduces the chance of
fogging the inside of your windows.

D Keep the air path under the front seats clear of
You can turn the outlets from side-to-side or up
and down to direct the flow of air. The left driver
and passenger outlets on vehicles equipped with air
conditioning have shut off knobs. Turn the knob to the
left to shut off air flow or to the right to allow air flow.
When you close an outlet, it will increase the flow of air
coming out of any outlets that are open. The center
outlet does not completely shut off airflow.

objects. This helps air to circulate throughout
your vehicle.

D The use of hood air deflectors may adversely
affect the performance of the heating and air
conditioning system.

3-15

Audio Systems

AM-FM Stereo

Your audio system has been designed to operate easily
and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the
most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it
first. Find out what your audio system can do and how
to operate all its controls, to be sure you’re getting the
most out of the advanced engineering that went into it.

Setting the Clock for Systems with
SET Button
Press SET. Within five seconds, press and hold the
SEEK right arrow until the correct minute appears on
the display. Press and hold the SEEK left arrow until
the correct hour appears on the display.

Setting the Clock for Systems with HR
and MN Buttons
Press and hold HR until the correct hour appears on
the display. Press and hold MN until the correct minute
appears on the display. To display the clock with the
ignition off, press RECALL or HR/MN and the time
will be displayed for a few seconds. There is an initial
two-second delay before the clock goes into the
time-set mode.

Playing the Radio
VOLUME: This knob turns the system on and off and
controls the volume. To increase volume and turn the radio
on, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to
decrease volume and turn the radio off.
RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by
pressing the recall knob. When the radio is playing,
press this knob to recall the station frequency.
Finding a Station
AM-FM: Press the lower knob to switch between
AM and FM. The display shows your selection.
TUNE: Turn the lower knob to tune in radio stations.

3-16

SEEK: Press the right arrow to tune to the next higher
station and the left arrow to tune to the next lower
station and stay there.
SCAN: Select either AM, FM1 or FM2 mode and
press both SEEK buttons to listen to a few seconds of
each radio station. SCAN will light up on the display.
The radio will automatically SCAN to the next higher
station, play that station for a few seconds, then SCAN
to the next higher station. Press VOLUME or both
SEEK buttons to stop scanning.
PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons let
you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to
14 stations (seven AM and seven FM). Just:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press AM-FM to select the band.
3. Tune in the desired station.
4. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.)
5. Press one of the four pushbuttons within five
seconds. Whenever you press that numbered
button, the station you set will return.
6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

In addition to the four stations already set, up to three
more stations may be preset on each band by pressing
two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just:
1. Tune in the desired station.
2. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.)
3. Press two adjoining buttons at the same time,
within five seconds. Whenever you press the
same two buttons, the station you set will return.
4. Repeat the steps for each pair of pushbuttons.
Setting the Tone
BASS: Slide this lever up or down to increase or
decrease bass.
TREB: Slide this lever up or down to increase or
decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may
want to decrease the treble.
Adjusting the Speakers
BAL: Turn the control behind the upper knob to move
the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle
position balances the sound between the speakers.
FADE: Turn the control behind the lower knob to move
the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle
position balances the sound between the speakers.

3-17

AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player
(If Equipped)

Finding a Station
AM-FM: Press the lower knob to switch between
AM, FM1 and FM2.
TUNE: Turn the lower knob to tune in radio stations.
SEEK: Press the right arrow to tune to the next
higher station and the left arrow to tune to the next
lower station.
PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons
let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to
21 stations (seven AM, seven FM1 and seven FM2). Just:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press AM-FM to select the band.

Playing the Radio

3. Tune in the desired station.

VOLUME: This knob turns the system on and off and
controls the volume. To increase volume and turn the radio
on, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to
decrease volume and turn the radio off.

4. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.)

RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by
pressing this knob. When the radio is playing, press this
knob to recall the station frequency.

3-18

5. Press one of the four pushbuttons within five
seconds. Whenever you press that numbered
button, the station you set will return.
6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

In addition to the four stations already set, up to three
more stations may be preset on each band by pressing
two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just:
1. Tune in the desired station.
2. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.)
3. Press two adjoining buttons at the same time,
within five seconds. Whenever you press the same
two buttons, the station you set will return.
4. Repeat the steps for each pair of pushbuttons.
P.SCAN: Select either AM, FM1 or FM2 mode and
press both SEEK buttons to scan through each of your
preset stations. The system will scan through and play
each preset station stored on your pushbuttons for a few
seconds. Press either SEEK button or RECALL to stop
scanning through the preset stations.
Setting the Tone

Adjusting the Speakers
BAL: Turn the control behind the upper knob to move
the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle
position balances the sound between the speakers.
FADE: Turn the control behind the lower knob to move
the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle
position balances the sound between the speakers.
Playing a Cassette Tape
Your tape player is built to work best with tapes
that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side.
Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work
well in this player.
Once the tape is playing, use the knobs for VOLUME,
BAL, FADE, BASS and TREB just as you do for
the radio.

BASS: Slide this lever up or down to increase or
decrease bass.

REV: Press the SEEK left arrow to reverse the
cassette tape. Press the SEEK right arrow to stop
reversing the tape.

TREB: Slide this lever up or down to increase or
decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may
want to decrease the treble.

FWD: Press the SEEK right arrow to advance the
cassette tape. Press the SEEK left arrow to stop
forwarding the tape.
RECALL: Press this knob to switch tape sides.

3-19

EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape or stop
the tape and play the radio.

AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player
and Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)

CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette
tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but
you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage
to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape
Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and
hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator.
The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.
CD Adapter Kits
It is possible to use a portable CD player adapter kit
with your cassette tape player after activating the bypass
feature on your tape player.
To activate the bypass feature, use the following steps:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Insert the adapter into the cassette slot.
3. Within five seconds, press and hold the REV and FWD
buttons at the same time for three seconds. The tape
symbol on the display will flash, showing that the
broken tape detection feature is no longer active.
This override routine will remain active until EJECT
is pressed.

3-20

Playing the Radio
PWR-VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on
and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise.
Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. The knob
is capable of being turned continuously.
RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by
pressing this button. When the radio is playing, press
this button to recall the station frequency.

SCV: Your system has a feature called
Speed-Compensated Volume (SCV). With SCV, your
audio system adjusts automatically to make up for road
and wind noise as you drive. Set the volume at the
desired level. Turn the control ring behind the upper
knob clockwise to adjust the SCV. Then, as you drive,
SCV automatically increases the volume, as necessary,
to overcome noise at any particular speed. The volume
level should always sound the same to you as you drive.
If you don’t want to use SCV, turn the control all the
way down. Each notch on the control ring allows for
more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds.

Finding a Station

3. Tune in the desired station.

AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM,
FM1 and FM2. The display will show your selection.

4. Press AUTO TONE to select the setting you prefer.

TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to
choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored
position when you’re not using it.
SEEK: Press the right arrow to tune to the next higher
station and the left arrow to tune to the next lower station
and stay there. The sound will mute while seeking.

PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let
you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to
18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2). Just:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press AM-FM to select the band.

5. Press and hold one of the six pushbuttons.
The sound will mute. When it returns, release
the button. Whenever you press that numbered
button, the station you set will return and the
tone you selected will be automatically selected
for that button.
6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

3-21

P.SCAN: The preset scan button lets you scan through
your favorite stations stored on your pushbuttons.
Select either the AM, FM1 or FM2 mode and then press
P. SCAN. It will scan through each station stored on
your pushbuttons and stop for a few seconds before
continuing to scan through all of the pushbuttons.
Press P. SCAN again or one of the pushbuttons to stop
scanning to listen to a specific preset station. P. SCAN
will light up on the display while in this mode. If one of
the stations stored on a pushbutton is too weak for the
location you are in, the radio display will show the
channel number (P1-P6) for several seconds before
advancing to the next preset station.
Setting the Tone
BASS: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the knob clockwise to increase bass
and counterclockwise to decrease bass. When the BASS
control is turned, the AUTO TONE display will go blank.
TREB: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the knob clockwise to increase
treble and counterclockwise to decrease treble. When the
TREB control is turned, the AUTO TONE display will
go blank. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to
decrease the treble.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when
you’re not using them.

3-22

AUTO TONE: Press this button to select among the
six preset equalization settings and tailor the sound to
the music or voice being heard. Each time you press the
button, the selection will switch to one of the preset
settings of CLASSIC, NEWS, ROCK, POP, C/W
(Country/Western) or JAZZ. To return to the manual
mode, press and release this button until the AUTO
TONE display goes blank. This will return the tone
adjustment to the BASS and TREB controls. If a
BASS or TREB control is turned, the AUTO TONE
display will go blank. Use PUSHBUTTONS to program
AUTO TONE.
Adjusting the Speakers
BAL: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the control clockwise to adjust
sound to the right speakers and counterclockwise to
adjust sound to the left speakers. The middle position
balances the sound between the speakers.
FADE: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the control clockwise to adjust the
sound to the front speakers and counterclockwise for the
rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound
between the speakers.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when
you’re not using them.

Playing a Cassette Tape
Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that
are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes
longer than that are so thin they may not work well in
this player.
To load a cassette tape with the ignition off, press EJECT
or RECALL. Then, insert the cassette tape. If the ignition
is on but the radio is off, the tape will begin playing.
Once the tape is playing, use the VOL, AUTO TONE,
BAL, FADE, BASS and TREB controls just as you
do for the radio. The tape symbol and a direction arrow
will be on the display whenever a tape is being played.
Anytime a tape is inserted, the top side is selected for
play first.
The player automatically senses if the cassette tape is
metal or CrO2 and adjusts for best playback sound.
PREV (1): Press the PREV button or the SEEK left
arrow to search for the previous selection. A minimum
three-second blank gap is required for the player to
stop at the beginning of the selection. The tape direction
arrow will blink during the SEEK operation.
PROG (2): Press this button to switch from one side
of the tape to the other.

NEXT (3): Press the NEXT button or the SEEK right
arrow to search for the next selection. A minimum
three-second blank gap is required for the player to
stop at the beginning of the selection. The tape direction
arrow will blink during the SEEK operation. The sound
will mute while searching for the next selection.
REV (4): Press this button to rapidly reverse the tape
to the beginning of the cassette or until you press REV
again. The radio will play the last selected station while
reversing the tape. The tape direction arrow will blink
during the reverse operation.

(5): Press this button to reduce cassette tape noise.
The double-D symbol will appear on the display while
the player is in this mode.
Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a
license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
FWD (6): Press this button to rapidly forward the
tape to the end of the cassette or until you press FWD
again. The radio will play the last selected station while
forwarding the tape. The tape direction arrow will blink
during the forward operation.

3-23

AM-FM: Press this button to switch from a tape
to the radio.
TAPE AUX: Press this button to return to the tape
player when playing the radio. The lighted arrow will
appear and show the direction of play when a tape is
in the active mode.
EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape.
The radio will now play. EJECT can be used with
either the ignition or radio off. To load a cassette tape
with the ignition or radio off, press EJECT before
loading the cassette.
CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette
tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but
you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage
to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape
Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and
hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator.
The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.

3-24

CD Adapter Kits
It is possible to use a portable CD player adapter kit
with your cassette tape player after activating the bypass
feature on your tape player.
To activate the bypass feature, use the following steps:
1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACCESSORY.
2. Turn the radio off.
3. Press and hold the TAPE AUX button for five
seconds. The tape symbol on the display will flash
for two seconds, indicating the feature is active.
4. Insert the adapter into the cassette slot. It will
power up the radio and begin playing.
This override routine will remain active until EJECT
is pressed.

AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player
and Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)

SCV: Your system has a feature called
Speed-Compensated Volume (SCV). With SCV,
your audio system adjusts automatically to make up
for road and wind noise as you drive. Set the volume at
the desired level. Turn the control ring behind the upper
knob clockwise to adjust the SCV. Then, as you drive,
SCV automatically increases the volume, as necessary,
to overcome noise at any particular speed. The volume
level should always sound the same to you as you drive.
If you don’t want to use SCV, turn the control all the
way down. Each notch on the control ring allows for
more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds.
Finding a Station

Playing the Radio
PWR-VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on
and off. To increase volume, turn this knob clockwise.
Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. The knob
is capable of rotating continuously.
RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by
pressing this button. When the radio is playing, press
this button to recall the station frequency.

AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM,
FM1 and FM2. The display will show your selection.
TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it
to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its
stored position when you’re not using it.
SEEK: Press the right arrow to tune to the next
higher station and the left arrow to tune to the next
lower station and stay there. The sound will mute
while seeking.

3-25

SCAN: Press and hold SEEK for two seconds until
SCAN appears on the display. SCAN allows you to
listen to stations for a few seconds. The receiver will
continue to scan and momentarily stop at each station
until you press the button again. The sound will mute
while scanning.
PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let
you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to
18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2). Just:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press AM-FM to select the band.
3. Tune in the desired station.
4. Press AUTO TONE to select the setting
you prefer.
5. Press and hold one of the six pushbuttons.
The sound will mute. When it returns, release
the button. Whenever you press that numbered
button, the station you set will return and the
tone you selected will be automatically selected
for that button.
6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

3-26

P.SCAN: The preset scan button lets you scan through
your favorite stations stored on your pushbuttons.
Select either the AM, FM1 or FM2 mode and then
press P.SCAN. It will scan through each station stored
on your pushbuttons and stop for a few seconds before
continuing to scan through all of the pushbuttons.
Press P.SCAN again or one of the pushbuttons to stop
scanning to listen to a specific stored station. P.SCAN
will light up on the display while in this mode. If one
of the stations stored on a pushbutton is too weak for
the location you are in, the radio display will show the
channel number (P1-P6) for several seconds before
advancing to the next preset station.
Setting the Tone
BASS: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the knob clockwise to increase bass
and counterclockwise to decrease bass. When the BASS
control is turned, the AUTO TONE display will go blank.
TREB: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the knob clockwise to increase
treble and counterclockwise to decrease treble. When the
TREB control is turned, the AUTO TONE display will
go blank. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to
decrease the treble.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when
you’re not using them.

Playing a Compact Disc

Adjusting the Speakers
BAL: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the control clockwise to adjust
sound to the right speakers and counterclockwise to
adjust sound to the left speakers. The middle position
balances the sound between the speakers.
FADE: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its
stored position. Turn the control clockwise to adjust the
sound to the front speakers and counterclockwise for the
rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound
between the speakers.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when
you’re not using them.

D You are driving on a very rough road. (The disc

PWR: Press this knob to turn the system on.
(You can also turn the system on when you insert a
compact disc into the player with the ignition on.)
Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up.
The player will pull it in. Wait a few seconds and the
disc should play. CD and a CD symbol will also
appear on the display. Anytime you are playing a CD,
the letters CD will be next to the CD symbol.
If the disc comes back out and ERR appears on the
display, it could be that:
should play when the road gets smoother.)

D The disc is upside down.
D It is dirty, scratched or wet.
D It is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour
and try again.)

D The disc player is very hot.
Press RECALL to make ERR go off the display.

3-27

PREV (1): Press PREV or the SEEK left arrow to
search for the previous selection. If you hold this button
or press it more than once, the disc will advance further.
Sound is muted in this mode.
RDM (2): Press this button to play the tracks on
the disc in random order. While in the RDM mode,
RANDOM appears on the display. Press RDM again
to return to normal play.
NEXT (3): Press NEXT or the SEEK right arrow to
search for the next selection. If you hold this button or
press it more than once, the disc will advance further.
The next track number will appear on the display.
Sound is muted in this mode.
REV (4): Press and hold REV to return rapidly to a
favorite passage. You will hear the disc selection play at
high speed while you press the REV button. This allows
you to listen and find out when the disc is at the desired
selection. Release REV to resume playing.
FWD (6): Press and hold this button to advance rapidly
within a track. You will hear the disc selection play at
high speed while you press the FWD button. This allows
you to listen and find out when the disc is at the desired
selection. Release FWD to resume playing.

3-28

RECALL: Press this button to see what track is playing.
Press it again within five seconds to see how long the
CD has been playing that track. Elapsed time is
displayed in minutes and seconds. The track number
will also appear when a new track begins to play.
Press RECALL again to return to the time display.
AM-FM: While in the CD mode, press this button to
stop playing the CD and play the radio. The CD symbol
will still display but the word CD will be replaced with
either AM, FM1 or FM2. (If the radio is turned off,
the disc stays in the player and will resume playing at
the point where it stopped.)
CD AUX: To switch between the player and the radio
when a disc is playing, press the AM-FM button.
To return to the player, press CD AUX. When a disc is
playing, the letters CD and the CD symbol will appear
on the display. (If the radio is turned off, the disc stays
in the player and will resume playing at the point where
it stopped.)
EJECT: Press this button to eject the disc from the
player and play the radio. When the same or a new disc
is inserted, the disc will start playing on track one.
If a compact disc is left sitting in the opening for more
than a few seconds, the player will pull the CD back in.
The radio will continue playing. When the ignition is
off, press this button to load a CD.

Remote Cassette Tape Player (If Equipped)

A lighted tape symbol shows when a cassette tape is in
the player. A lighted arrow will also appear and show the
direction of play when a tape is active.
The player automatically senses if the cassette tape is
metal or CrO2 and adjusts for best playback sound.
Anytime a cassette tape is inserted, the top side is
selected for play first.

If you have an AM-FM Stereo Audio Compact Disc
Automatic Tone Control System that includes a remote
cassette player, the cassette player is located in the
center of the instrument panel.
Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are
up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer
than that are so thin they may not work well in this player.
To load a cassette tape with the ignition off, first press
EJECT on the remote player. Then, insert the cassette
tape. The tape will play if the ignition is on but the radio
is off.
Once the tape is playing, use the control knobs for VOL,
AUTO TONE, BAL, FADE, BASS and TREB just as
you do for the radio.

PREV (1): Press PREV or the SEEK left arrow
(in the opposite direction that the lighted tape direction
arrow points) to search for the previous selection.
A minimum three-second blank gap is needed for the
player to stop at the beginning of the selection. The tape
direction arrow will blink during the SEEK operation
and the sound is muted in this mode.
NEXT (3): Press NEXT or the SEEK right arrow
(in the direction that the lighted tape direction arrow
points) to search for the next selection. The tape
direction arrow will blink during SEEK operation and
the sound is muted in this mode.
REV (4): Press this button to rapidly reverse the tape.
The tape will rapidly reverse to the beginning of the
cassette reel or until you press REV again. The radio
plays the last selected station during REV.

3-29

(5): Press this pushbutton to turn Dolby NR on and off.
Dolby NR is active when a tape is inserted in the remote
cassette. The double-D symbol will appear on the display.
Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license
from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
FWD (6): Press this button to rapidly advance the tape.
The tape will rapidly advance to the end of the cassette
reel or until you press FWD again. The radio plays the
last selected station during FWD.
PROG: Press this button on the remote player to go
from one side of the tape to the other.
TAPE: Press the AM-FM button to switch from the
player and the radio when a tape is playing. To return to
the tape player, press CD AUX. The lighted arrow will
appear next to the symbol and show the direction of play
when a tape is active.
EJECT: Press this button on the remote player to
remove the tape. EJECT can be used with either the
ignition or radio off. Also, you must press EJECT before
loading a cassette with the radio off to allow loading.

3-30

Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped)

THEFTLOCKR is designed to discourage theft of your
radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio
functions whenever battery power is removed.
The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or
ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the
radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK
is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen.
When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display
LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery
power has been interrupted. If your battery loses power
for any reason, you must unlock the radio with the secret
code before it will operate.
Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature
The instructions which follow explain how to enter
your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system.
It is recommended that you read through all nine steps
before starting the procedure.
If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between
any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time and
you must start the procedure over at Step 4.

1. Write down any three or four-digit number from
000 to 1999 and keep it in a safe place separate
from the vehicle.

Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a
Power Loss

2. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN.

Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than
15 seconds between steps:

3. Turn the radio off.

1. Turn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display.

4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down
until --- shows on the display. Next you will use the
secret code number which you have written down.

2. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display.

5. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display.

4. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree
with your code.

6. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree
with your code.
7. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree
with your code.
8. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the
code matches the secret code you have written down.
The display will show REP to let you know that you
need to repeat Steps 5 through 7 to confirm your
secret code.
9. Press AM-FM and this time the display will show
SEC to let you know that your radio is secure.
The LED indicator by the volume control will begin
flashing when the ignition is turned off.

3. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree
with your code.

5. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the
code matches the secret code you have written down.
The display will show SEC, indicating the radio is
now operable and secure.
If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will
appear on the display. You will have to wait an hour with
the ignition on before you can try again. When you try
again, you will only have three chances to enter the
correct code before INOP appears.
If you lose or forget your code, contact your dealer.

3-31

Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature
Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than
15 seconds between steps:
1. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN.
2. Turn the radio off.
3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them
down until SEC shows on the display.
4. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display.
5. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree
with your code.
6. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree
with your code.
7. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the
code matches the secret code you have written down.
The display will show ---, indicating that the radio
is no longer secured.
If the code entered is incorrect, SEC will appear on the
display. The radio will remain secured until the correct
code is entered.

3-32

When battery power is removed and later applied to a
secured radio, the radio won’t turn on and LOC will
appear on the display.
To unlock a secured radio, see “Unlocking the
Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss” earlier
in this section.

Understanding Radio Reception
AM
The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM,
especially at night. The longer range, however, can
cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick
up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try
reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.
FM Stereo
FM stereo will give you the best sound, but FM signals
will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall
buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing
the sound to come and go.

Tips About Your Audio System
Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable
until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher
volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be
loud and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by
adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe
sound level before your hearing adapts to it.
To help avoid hearing loss or damage:

D Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting.
D Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably
and clearly.

NOTICE:
Before you add any sound equipment to your
vehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobile
telephone or two-way radio -- be sure you
can add what you want. If you can, it’s very
important to do it properly. Added sound
equipment may interfere with the operation of
your vehicle’s engine, Delphi Delco Electronics
radio or other systems, and even damage them.
Your vehicle’s systems may interfere with the
operation of sound equipment that has been
added improperly.
So, before adding sound equipment, check with
your dealer and be sure to check Federal rules
covering mobile radio and telephone units.

3-33

Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause
reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged
mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their
cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and
extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate
properly or may cause failure of the tape player.

When using a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning
cassette, it is normal for the cassette to eject because
your unit is equipped with a cut tape detection feature
and a cleaning cassette may appear as a broken tape.
To prevent the cleaning cassette from being ejected,
use the following steps.
1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACCESSORY.

Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every
50 hours of use. Your radio may display CLN to indicate
that you have used your tape player for 50 hours without
resetting the tape clean timer. If this message appears
on the display, your cassette tape player needs to be
cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as
soon as possible to prevent damage to your tapes and
player. If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a
known good cassette to see if it is the tape or the tape
player at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement
in sound quality, clean the tape player.

2. Turn the radio off.

The recommended cleaning method for your
cassette tape player is the use of a scrubbing action,
non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub
the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn.
The recommended cleaning cassette is available through
your dealer (GM Part No. 12344789).

You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type
cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean
the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not
eject on its own. A non-scrubbing action cleaner may
not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner.
The use of a non-scrubbing action, dry-type cleaning
cassette is not recommended.

3-34

3. Press and hold the TAPE AUX button for five
seconds. The tape symbol on the display will flash
for two seconds.
4. Insert the scrubbing action cleaning cassette.
5. Eject the cleaning cassette after the manufacturer’s
recommended cleaning time.
When the cleaning cassette has been ejected, the cut tape
detection feature is active again.

After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for
five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will
display --- to show the indicator was reset.
Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality
may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette
tape is in good condition before you have your tape
player serviced.

Care of Your Compact Discs
Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases
or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight
and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a
clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and
clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.

Care of Your Compact Disc Player
The use of CD lens cleaner discs is not advised, due to
the risk of contaminating the lens of the CD optics with
lubricants internal to the CD mechanism.

Fixed Mast Antenna
The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes
without being damaged. If the mast should ever become
slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If the
mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you should
replace it.
Check every once in a while to be sure the mast is still
tightened to the cowl.

Be sure never to touch the side without writing when
handling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer
edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge.

3-35

Section 4 Your Driving and the Road
Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions.
We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.
4-2
4-3
4-6
4-6
4-9
4-12
4-14
4-14
4-16
4-17
4-32

Defensive Driving
Drunken Driving
Control of a Vehicle
Braking
Traction Assist System (Option)
Steering
Off-Road Recovery
Passing
Loss of Control
Off-Road Driving with Your
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle
Driving at Night

4-33
4-36
4-37
4-38
4-39
4-39
4-41
4-45
4-47
4-49
4-55
4-56
4-56

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
City Driving
Freeway Driving
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Highway Hypnosis
Hill and Mountain Roads
Winter Driving
Recreational Vehicle Towing
Loading Your Vehicle
Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment
Camper Wiring Harness (If Equipped)
Pickup Conversion to Chassis Cab
Towing a Trailer

4-1

Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.”
On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means
“always expect the unexpected.”
Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to
be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they
might do. Be ready for their mistakes.
Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable
of accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough
following distance. It’s the best defensive driving
maneuver, in both city and rural driving. You never
know when the vehicle in front of you is going to
brake or turn suddenly.

Defensive Driving
The best advice anyone can give about driving is:
Drive defensively.
Please start with a very important safety device in your
vehicle: Buckle up. See “Safety Belts” in the Index.

4-2

Defensive driving requires that a driver concentrate on
the driving task. Anything that distracts from the
driving task -- such as concentrating on a cellular
telephone call, reading, or reaching for something on
the floor -- makes proper defensive driving more
difficult and can even cause a collision, with resulting
injury. Ask a passenger to help do things like this,
or pull off the road in a safe place to do them yourself.
These simple defensive driving techniques could save
your life.

Drunken Driving
Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is
a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to
the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims
every year.
Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to
drive a vehicle:

D
D
D
D

Judgment
Muscular Coordination
Vision
Attentiveness.

Police records show that almost half of all motor
vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases,
these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking
and driving. In recent years, about 16,000 annual motor
vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use
of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured.

Many adults -- by some estimates, nearly half the adult
population -- choose never to drink alcohol, so they
never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, it’s
against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol.
There are good medical, psychological and
developmental reasons for these laws.
The obvious way to solve the leading highway safety
problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then
drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much”
if the driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many
might think. Although it depends on each person
and situation, here is some general information on
the problem.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone
who is drinking depends upon four things:

D The amount of alcohol consumed
D The drinker’s body weight
D The amount of food that is consumed before and
during drinking

D The length of time it has taken the drinker to
consume the alcohol.

4-3

According to the American Medical Association, a
180-lb. (82 kg) person who drinks three 12-ounce
(355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a
BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the
same BAC by drinking three 4-ounce (120 ml) glasses
of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces
(45 ml) of a liquor like whiskey, gin or vodka.

It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example,
if the same person drank three double martinis
(3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour,
the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent.
A person who consumes food just before or during
drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level.
There is a gender difference, too. Women generally have
a lower relative percentage of body water than men.
Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a
woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a
man of her same body weight when each has the same
number of drinks.
The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC
of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, and
throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some
other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all
commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent.
The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to
six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we’ve seen,
it depends on how much alcohol is in the drinks,
and how quickly the person drinks them.

4-4

But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of
0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills
of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching
0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All
drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent.
Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision
increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of
0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of
0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a
collision. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance
of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a
level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!

There’s something else about drinking and driving that
many people don’t know. Medical research shows that
alcohol in a person’s system can make crash injuries
worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord or
heart. This means that when anyone who has been
drinking -- driver or passenger -- is in a crash, that
person’s chance of being killed or permanently disabled
is higher than if the person had not been drinking.

The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol
in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold
showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the
right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to
take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street?
A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able
to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.

Drinking and then driving is very dangerous.
Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness and
judgment can be affected by even a small amount
of alcohol. You can have a serious -- or even
fatal -- collision if you drive after drinking.
Please don’t drink and drive or ride with a driver
who has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if
you’re with a group, designate a driver who will
not drink.

CAUTION:

4-5

Control of a Vehicle

Braking

You have three systems that make your vehicle go where
you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and
the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work
at the places where the tires meet the road.

Braking action involves perception time and
reaction time.
First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal.
That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up
your foot and do it. That’s reaction time.
Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second.
But that’s only an average. It might be less with one
driver and as long as two or three seconds or more with
another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination
and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs and
frustration. But even in 3/4 of a second, a vehicle
moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m).
That could be a lot of distance in an emergency,
so keeping enough space between your vehicle and
others is important.
And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly
with the surface of the road (whether it’s pavement or
gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire
tread; the condition of your brakes; the weight of the
vehicle and the amount of brake force applied.

Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s
easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires
and road can provide. That means you can lose control
of your vehicle.

4-6

Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive
in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy
braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic.
This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to
cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out
much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking.
If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic
following distances, you will eliminate a lot of
unnecessary braking. That means better braking
and longer brake life.
If your engine ever stops while you’re driving, brake
normally but don’t pump your brakes. If you do,
the pedal may get harder to push down. If your
engine stops, you will still have some power brake
assist. But you will use it when you brake. Once the
power assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and
the brake pedal will be harder to push.

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is an
advanced electronic braking system that will help
prevent a braking skid.
When you start your engine and begin to drive away,
your anti-lock brake system will check itself. You may
hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while this test
is going on. This is normal.
If there’s a problem with
the anti-lock brake system,
this warning light will stay
on. See “Anti-Lock Brake
System Warning Light”
in the Index.

4-7

The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure
faster than any driver could. The computer is
programmed to make the most of available tire and
road conditions. This can help you steer around the
obstacle while braking hard.

Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet.
You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in
front of you.
You slam on the brakes and continue braking.
Here’s what happens with ABS.
A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one
of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will
separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at
both rear wheels.

4-8

As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on
wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.

Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need
to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease
stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in
front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes
if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave
enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have
anti-lock brakes.
Using Anti-Lock
Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down
firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel the
brakes vibrate, or you may notice some noise, but this
is normal.

Traction Assist System (Option)
Your vehicle may have a Traction Assist System (TAS)
that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in
slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it
senses that one or both of the rear wheels are spinning
or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the
system reduces engine power to limit wheel spin.
This light will come
on when the TAS is
limiting wheel spin.
See “Low Traction Light”
in the Index.

Braking in Emergencies
With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same
time. In many emergencies, steering can help you
more than even the very best braking.

You may hear or feel the system working or notice a
lack of accelerator response, but this is normal.

4-9

The Traction Assist System may operate on dry roads
under some conditions. When this happens, you may
notice a reduction in acceleration. This is normal and
doesn’t mean there’s a problem with your vehicle.
Examples of these conditions include a hard acceleration
in a turn, an abrupt upshift or downshift of the
transmission or driving on rough roads.
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the TAS begins
to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically
disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely
use it again, you may re-engage the cruise control.
See “Cruise Control” in the Index.
When the TRACTION
OFF light is on, the TAS
is off and will not limit
wheel spin. Adjust your
driving accordingly.

4-10

The TRACTION OFF light will come on under the
following conditions:

D The Traction Assist System is turned off, either by
pressing the TAS on/off button or turning off the
automatic engagement feature of the TAS.

D The transmission is in FIRST (1); TAS will not
operate in this gear. This is normal.

D The vehicle is driven on a severely rough road.

When the vehicle leaves the rough surface, slows
down or stops, the light will go off and TAS will be
on again. This is normal.

D A Traction Assist System, Anti-Lock Brake System
or engine-related problem has been detected and the
vehicle needs service.
See “Traction Off Light” in the Index.
The Traction Assist System, as delivered from the
factory, will automatically come on whenever you start
your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery
road conditions, you should always leave the system on.
But you can turn the TAS off if you ever need to.
You should turn the TAS off if your vehicle ever gets
stuck in sand, mud or snow and rocking the vehicle is
required. See “Rocking Your Vehicle” in the Index.

To turn the system on
or off press the TAS
on/off button located
to the left of the of the
steering wheel on the
instrument panel.

If desired, you can change the TAS automatic
engagement feature so that the system will not come
on automatically when the engine is started. To do so:
1. Park vehicle with ignition off and transmission
in PARK (P).
2. Turn the ignition to RUN; do not start the engine.
3. Apply the brake pedal, press the accelerator pedal to
the floor and then press the TAS on/off button and
hold it down for at least six seconds.
4. Release the TAS button and both pedals.
5. Turn off the ignition and wait a few seconds.

If you used the button to turn the system off, the
TRACTION OFF light will come on and stay on. You
can turn the system back on at any time by pressing the
button again. The TRACTION OFF light should go off.

The next time you start your vehicle, the TAS will not
automatically come on. You can restore the automatic
feature by using the same procedure. Whether the TAS is
set to come on automatically or not, you can always turn
the system on or off by pressing the TAS on/off button.

4-11

Steering
Power Steering
If you lose power steering assist because the engine
stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer
but it will take much more effort.

Speed-Sensitive Steering
This system varies the amount of steering effort
proportionate to your vehicle speed. Steering is easier
at lower speeds for maneuvering and parking ease.
As your vehicle speed increases, the steering effort also
increases. At highway speeds, the amount of steering
effort is increased.

Steering Tips
Driving on Curves
It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned
on the news happen on curves. Here’s why:
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject
to the same laws of physics when driving on curves.
The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it
possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn
the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep

4-12

the vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve ever
tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this.
The traction you can get in a curve depends on the
condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at
which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’re
in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.
Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you
suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering and
acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet
the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too
much of those places. You can lose control.
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the
accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it
to go, and slow down.
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should
adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are
based on good weather and road conditions. Under less
favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower.
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a
curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front
wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through
the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to
accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then
accelerate gently into the straightaway.

Steering in Emergencies
There are times when steering can be more effective
than braking. For example, you come over a hill and
find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls
out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between
parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can
avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop
in time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room.
That’s the time for evasive action -- steering around
the problem.
Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies
like these. First apply your brakes. See “Braking in
Emergencies” earlier in this section. It is better to
remove as much speed as you can from a possible
collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left
or right depending on the space available.

An emergency like this requires close attention and a
quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at
the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can
turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing
either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly,
and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have
avoided the object.
The fact that such emergency situations are always
possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving
at all times and wear safety belts properly.

4-13

Off-Road Recovery

Passing

You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the
edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving.

The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a
two-lane highway waits for just the right moment,
accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes
back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver?
Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane
highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the
passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming
traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in
judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can
suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the
worst of all traffic accidents -- the head-on collision.
So here are some tips for passing:

D “Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides and

to crossroads for situations that might affect your
passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever
about making a successful pass, wait for a better time.

If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the
pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the
accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer
so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement.
You can turn the steering wheel up to one-quarter turn
until the right front tire contacts the pavement edge.
Then turn your steering wheel to go straight down
the roadway.

4-14

D Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and

lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might
indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass.
A broken center line usually indicates it’s all right to
pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross
a solid line on your side of the lane or a double
solid line, even if the road seems empty of
approaching traffic.

D Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to

pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one
thing, following too closely reduces your area
of vision, especially if you’re following a larger
vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the
vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back
a reasonable distance.

D When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up,

start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and
don’t get too close. Time your move so you will be
increasing speed as the time comes to move into the
other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a
“running start” that more than makes up for the
distance you would lose by dropping back. And if
something happens to cause you to cancel your pass,
you need only slow down and drop back again and
wait for another opportunity.

D If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait
your turn. But take care that someone isn’t trying to
pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle.
Remember to glance over your shoulder and check
the blind spot.

D Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder and

start your left lane change signal before moving out
of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough
ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your
inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal
and move back into the right lane. (Remember that
if your right outside mirror is convex, the vehicle
you just passed may seem to be farther away from
you than it really is.)

D Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time
on two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the
next vehicle.

D Don’t overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly.
Even though the brake lamps are not flashing,
it may be slowing down or starting to turn.

D If you’re being passed, make it easy for the

following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps
you can ease a little to the right.

4-15

Loss of Control
Let’s review what driving experts say about what happens
when the three control systems (brakes, steering and
acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the tires
meet the road to do what the driver has asked.
In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to
steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of
less danger.

Skidding
In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.
Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable
care suited to existing conditions, and by not
“overdriving” those conditions. But skids are
always possible.
The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle’s
three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels
aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too
much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip
and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid,
too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.
A cornering skid and an acceleration skid are best
handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.

4-16

If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the
accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want
the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough,
your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a
second skid if it occurs.
Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice,
gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll
want to slow down and adjust your driving to these
conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery
surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and
vehicle control more limited.
While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try
your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or
braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower
gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to
slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until
your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning
clues -- such as enough water, ice or packed snow on
the road to make a “mirrored surface” -- and slow
down when you have any doubt.
Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps
avoid only the braking skid.

Off-Road Driving with Your
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle

If you think you will need some more ground clearance
at the front of your vehicle, you can easily remove the
front bumper lower air dam.

This off-road guide is for vehicles that have
four-wheel drive.
Also, see “Anti-Lock Brakes” in the Index.
If your vehicle doesn’t have four-wheel drive, you
shouldn’t drive off-road unless you’re on a level,
solid surface.
Off-road driving can be great fun. But it does have
some definite hazards. The greatest of these is the
terrain itself.
“Off-roading” means you’ve left the great North
American road system behind. Traffic lanes aren’t
marked. Curves aren’t banked. There are no road signs.
Surfaces can be slippery, rough, uphill or downhill.
In short, you’ve gone right back to nature.
Off-road driving involves some new skills. And that’s
why it’s very important that you read this guide. You’ll
find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help
make your off-road driving safer and more enjoyable.

The front bumper lower air dam is held in place by a
series of push pins located around the lower edge of
the front bumper. The push-pins are accessible from
underneath the front bumper.

4-17

3. Pull the push-pins and
lower air dam assembly
away from the retainers
until the lower air dam
is free.

The following steps must be performed on each of the
push-pins to remove the air dam:
1. Insert the tip portion of a
flat-tip screwdriver into
the push-pin slot and
pull downward until the
push-pin snaps loose.

When you’re back on roads, though, be sure to replace
the air dam.
2. While continuing to
pull downward on the
push-pin, squeeze and
turn the expandable
end of the push-pin
with a pair of pliers
until it releases from
the retainer.

4-18

NOTICE:
Operating your vehicle for extended periods
without the front bumper lower air dam installed
can cause improper air flow to the engine and
may allow things like fog lamps or tow hooks
on the front of your vehicle to be damaged.
Always be sure to replace the front bumper
air dam when you’re finished off-road driving.

To replace the lower air dam, do the following:
1. Line up each push-pin
with its intended retainer
and push the washer
portion of the push-pin
towards the retainer until
it locks into place.

2. Push the flat end of the
push-pin towards the
retainer until it locks
into place, making sure
each is secure.

Before You Go Off-Roading
There are some things to do before you go out.
For example, be sure to have all necessary
maintenance and service work done. Check to make
sure all underbody shields (if so equipped) are properly
attached. Be sure you read all the information about
your four-wheel-drive vehicle in this manual. Is there
enough fuel? Is the spare tire fully inflated? Are the
fluid levels up where they should be? What are the local
laws that apply to off-roading where you’ll be driving?
If you don’t know, you should check with law
enforcement people in the area. Will you be on
someone’s private land? If so, be sure to get the
necessary permission.

Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving
There are some important things to remember about
how to load your vehicle.

D The heaviest things should be on the load floor and
forward of your rear axle. Put heavier items as far
forward as you can.

D Be sure the load is secured properly, so driving on
the off-road terrain doesn’t toss things around.

4-19

CAUTION:
D Cargo on the load floor piled higher than

the seatbacks can be thrown forward during
a sudden stop. You or your passengers could
be injured. Keep cargo below the top of
the seatbacks.
Unsecured cargo on the load floor can be
tossed about when driving over rough
terrain. You or your passengers can be struck
by flying objects. Secure the cargo properly.
Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle’s
center of gravity, making it more likely to roll
over. You can be seriously or fatally injured if
the vehicle rolls over. Put heavy loads inside
the cargo area, not on the roof. Keep cargo
in the cargo area as far forward and low
as possible.

You’ll find other important information in this manual.
See “Vehicle Loading,” “Luggage Carrier” and “Tires”
in the Index.

4-20

Environmental Concerns
Off-road driving can provide wholesome and satisfying
recreation. However, it also raises environmental
concerns. GM recognizes these concerns and urges
every off-roader to follow these basic rules for
protecting the environment:

D Always use established trails, roads and areas that
have been specially set aside for public off-road
recreational driving; obey all posted regulations.

D Avoid any driving practice that could damage the
environment -- shrubs, flowers, trees, grasses -- or
disturb wildlife (this includes wheel-spinning,
breaking down trees or unnecessary driving through
streams or over soft ground).

D Always carry a litter bag . . . make sure all refuse is
removed from any campsite before leaving.

D Take extreme care with open fires (where permitted),
camp stoves and lanterns.

D Never park your vehicle over dry grass or other

combustible materials that could catch fire from the
heat of the vehicle’s exhaust system.

Traveling to Remote Areas
It makes sense to plan your trip, especially when
going to a remote area. Know the terrain and plan your
route. You are much less likely to get bad surprises.
Get accurate maps of trails and terrain. Try to learn of
any blocked or closed roads.
It’s also a good idea to travel with at least one other
vehicle. If something happens to one of them,
the other can help quickly.
Does your vehicle have a winch? If so, be sure to read
the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch can be
handy if you get stuck. But you’ll want to know how to
use it properly.

Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving
It’s a good idea to practice in an area that’s safe and
close to home before you go into the wilderness.
Off-road driving does require some new and different
driving skills. Here’s what we mean.
Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Your
eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain
for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen for
unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms, hands,
feet and body, you’ll need to respond to vibrations and
vehicle bounce.

Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful
off-road driving. One of the best ways to control
your vehicle is to control your speed. Here are some
things to keep in mind. At higher speeds:

D you approach things faster and you have less time
to scan the terrain for obstacles.

D you have less time to react.
D you have more vehicle bounce when you drive
over obstacles.

D you’ll need more distance for braking, especially
since you’re on an unpaved surface.

CAUTION:
When you’re driving off-road, bouncing and
quick changes in direction can easily throw you
out of position. This could cause you to lose
control and crash. So, whether you’re driving on
or off the road, you and your passengers should
wear safety belts.

4-21

Scanning the Terrain
Off-road driving can take you over many different
kinds of terrain. You need to be familiar with the terrain
and its many different features. Here are some things
to consider.
Surface Conditions. Off-roading can take you over
hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud,
snow or ice. Each of these surfaces affects the steering,
acceleration and braking of your vehicle in different
ways. Depending upon the kind of surface you are on,
you may experience slipping, sliding, wheel spinning,
delayed acceleration, poor traction and longer
braking distances.
Surface Obstacles. Unseen or hidden obstacles can be
hazardous. A rock, log, hole, rut or bump can startle you
if you’re not prepared for them. Often these obstacles are
hidden by grass, bushes, snow or even the rise and fall of
the terrain itself. Here are some things to consider:

D Is the path ahead clear?
D Will the surface texture change abruptly up ahead?
D Does the travel take you uphill or downhill?
(There’s more discussion of these subjects later.)

D Will you have to stop suddenly or change
direction quickly?

4-22

When you drive over obstacles or rough terrain, keep a
firm grip on the steering wheel. Ruts, troughs or other
surface features can jerk the wheel out of your hands if
you’re not prepared.
When you drive over bumps, rocks, or other obstacles,
your wheels can leave the ground. If this happens, even
with one or two wheels, you can’t control the vehicle as
well or at all.
Because you will be on an unpaved surface, it’s
especially important to avoid sudden acceleration,
sudden turns or sudden braking.
In a way, off-road driving requires a different kind of
alertness from driving on paved roads and highways.
There are no road signs, posted speed limits or signal
lights. You have to use your own good judgment about
what is safe and what isn’t.
Drinking and driving can be very dangerous on any
road. And this is certainly true for off-road driving.
At the very time you need special alertness and driving
skills, your reflexes, perceptions and judgment can be
affected by even a small amount of alcohol. You could
have a serious -- or even fatal -- accident if you drink
and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking.
See “Drunken Driving” in the Index.

Driving on Off-Road Hills
Off-road driving often takes you up, down or across a
hill. Driving safely on hills requires good judgment and
an understanding of what your vehicle can and can’t do.
There are some hills that simply can’t be driven, no
matter how well built the vehicle.

On a very small hill, for example, there may be a
smooth, constant incline with only a small change in
elevation where you can easily see all the way to the top.
On a large hill, the incline may get steeper as you near
the top, but you may not see this because the crest of
the hill is hidden by bushes, grass or shrubs.
Here are some other things to consider as you
approach a hill.

CAUTION:

D Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get
sharply steeper in places?

Many hills are simply too steep for any vehicle.
If you drive up them, you will stall. If you drive
down them, you can’t control your speed. If you
drive across them, you will roll over. You could be
seriously injured or killed. If you have any doubt
about the steepness, don’t drive the hill.

Approaching a Hill
When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it’s one
of those hills that’s just too steep to climb, descend or
cross. Steepness can be hard to judge.

D Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the
surface cause tire slipping?

D Is there a straight path up or down the hill so you
won’t have to make turning maneuvers?

D Are there obstructions on the hill that can block your
path (boulders, trees, logs or ruts)?

D What’s beyond the hill? Is there a cliff, an embankment,
a drop-off, a fence? Get out and walk the hill if you
don’t know. It’s the smart way to find out.

D Is the hill simply too rough? Steep hills often have
ruts, gullies, troughs and exposed rocks because
they are more susceptible to the effects of erosion.

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Driving Uphill
Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill,
you need to take some special steps.

D Use a low gear and get a firm grip on the
steering wheel.

D Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain

your speed. Don’t use more power than you need,
because you don’t want your wheels to start spinning
or sliding.

D Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible.
If the path twists and turns, you might want to
find another route.

CAUTION:
Turning or driving across steep hills can be
dangerous. You could lose traction, slide sideways,
and possibly roll over. You could be seriously
injured or killed. When driving up hills,
always try to go straight up.

4-24

D Ease up on your speed as you approach the top
of the hill.

D Attach a flag to the vehicle to make you more visible
to approaching traffic on trails or hills.

D Sound the horn as you approach the top of the hill
to let opposing traffic know you’re there.

D Use your headlamps even during the day. They make
you more visible to oncoming traffic.

CAUTION:
Driving to the top (crest) of a hill at full speed
can cause an accident. There could be a drop-off,
embankment, cliff, or even another vehicle.
You could be seriously injured or killed. As you
near the top of a hill, slow down and stay alert.

Q:
A:

What should I do if my vehicle stalls, or is about
to stall, and I can’t make it up the hill?
If this happens, there are some things you should
do, and there are some things you must not do.
First, here’s what you should do:

D Push the brake pedal to stop the vehicle and

keep it from rolling backwards. Also, apply the
parking brake.

D If your engine is still running, shift the transmission
to REVERSE (R), release the parking brake, and
slowly back down the hill in REVERSE (R).

D If your engine has stopped running, you’ll need

to restart it. With the brake pedal pressed and the
parking brake still applied, shift the transmission to
PARK (P) (or, shift to NEUTRAL (N) if your
vehicle has a manual transmission) and restart the
engine. Then, shift to REVERSE (R), release the
parking brake, and slowly back down the hill as
straight as possible in REVERSE (R).

D As you are backing down the hill, put your left hand

on the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position.
This way, you’ll be able to tell if your wheels are
straight and maneuver as you back down. It’s best
that you back down the hill with your wheels straight
rather than in the left or right direction. Turning the
wheel too far to the left or right will increase the
possibility of a rollover.
Here are some things you must not do if you stall,
or are about to stall, when going up a hill.

D Never attempt to prevent a stall by shifting into

NEUTRAL (N) (or depressing the clutch, if you
have a manual transmission) to “rev-up” the
engine and regain forward momentum. This won’t
work. Your vehicle will roll backwards very quickly
and you could go out of control.
Instead, apply the regular brake to stop the
vehicle. Then apply the parking brake. Shift to
REVERSE (R), release the parking brake, and
slowly back straight down.

D Never attempt to turn around if you are about to

stall when going up a hill. If the hill is steep enough
to stall your vehicle, it’s steep enough to cause you
to roll over if you turn around. If you can’t make it
up the hill, you must back straight down the hill.

4-25

Suppose, after stalling, I try to back down
the hill and decide I just can’t do it.
What should I do?

Set the parking brake, put your transmission
in PARK (P) (or the manual transmission in
FIRST (1)) and turn off the engine. Leave the
vehicle and go get some help. Exit on the uphill
side and stay clear of the path the vehicle would
take if it rolled downhill. Do not shift the transfer
case to NEUTRAL when you leave the vehicle.
Leave it in some gear.

CAUTION:
Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can
cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission
is in PARK (P) (or, if you have the manual
transmission, even if you’re in gear). This is
because the NEUTRAL position on the
transfer case overrides the transmission.
CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)
You or someone else could be injured. If you
are going to leave your vehicle, set the parking
brake and shift the transmission to PARK (P)
(or, put your manual transmission in FIRST (1)).
But do not shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.
Leave the transfer case in the 2 Wheel High,
4 High or 4 Low position.

Driving Downhill
When off-roading takes you downhill, you’ll want to
consider a number of things:

D How steep is the downhill? Will I be able to maintain
vehicle control?

D What’s the surface like? Smooth? Rough? Slippery?
Hard-packed dirt? Gravel?
D Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts?
Logs? Boulders?

D What’s at the bottom of the hill? Is there a hidden

creek bank or even a river bottom with large rocks?

4-26

If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to
keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a low
gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes and
they won’t have to do all the work. Descend slowly,
keeping your vehicle under control at all times.

CAUTION:
Heavy braking when going down a hill can cause
your brakes to overheat and fade. This could
cause loss of control and a serious accident.
Apply the brakes lightly when descending a
hill and use a low gear to keep vehicle speed
under control.

D When driving downhill, avoid turns that take you

across the incline of the hill. A hill that’s not too
steep to drive down may be too steep to drive across.
You could roll over if you don’t drive straight down.

D Never go downhill with the transmission in

NEUTRAL (N), or with the clutch pedal
pressed down in a manual shift. This is called
“free-wheeling.” Your brakes will have to do
all the work and could overheat and fade.

Q:
A:

Am I likely to stall when going downhill?
It’s much more likely to happen going uphill.
But if it happens going downhill, here’s what to do.

D Stop your vehicle by applying the regular brakes.
Apply the parking brake.

D Shift to PARK (P) (or to NEUTRAL (N) with the

Are there some things I should not do
when driving down a hill?

Yes! These are important because if you
ignore them you could lose control and have
a serious accident.

manual transmission) and, while still braking, restart
the engine.

D Shift back to a low gear, release the parking brake,
and drive straight down.

D If the engine won’t start, get out and get help.

4-27

Driving Across an Incline
Sooner or later, an off-road trail will probably go across
the incline of a hill. If this happens, you have to decide
whether to try to drive across the incline. Here are some
things to consider:

D A hill that can be driven straight up or down may

be too steep to drive across. When you go straight
up or down a hill, the length of the wheel base
(the distance from the front wheels to the rear
wheels) reduces the likelihood the vehicle will
tumble end over end. But when you drive across
an incline, the much more narrow track width
(the distance between the left and right wheels) may
not prevent the vehicle from tilting and rolling over.
Also, driving across an incline puts more weight on
the downhill wheels. This could cause a downhill
slide or a rollover.

D Surface conditions can be a problem when you drive

across a hill. Loose gravel, muddy spots, or even wet
grass can cause your tires to slip sideways, downhill.
If the vehicle slips sideways, it can hit something
that will trip it (a rock, a rut, etc.) and roll over.

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D Hidden obstacles can make the steepness of the

incline even worse. If you drive across a rock with
the uphill wheels, or if the downhill wheels drop into
a rut or depression, your vehicle can tilt even more.

For reasons like these, you need to decide carefully
whether to try to drive across an incline. Just because the
trail goes across the incline doesn’t mean you have to
drive it. The last vehicle to try it might have rolled over.

CAUTION:
Driving across an incline that’s too steep will
make your vehicle roll over. You could be
seriously injured or killed. If you have any
doubt about the steepness of the incline, don’t
drive across it. Find another route instead.

What if I’m driving across an incline that’s not
too steep, but I hit some loose gravel and start to
slide downhill. What should I do?

If you feel your vehicle starting to slide sideways,
turn downhill. This should help straighten out the
vehicle and prevent the side slipping. However, a
much better way to prevent this is to get out and
“walk the course” so you know what the surface
is like before you drive it.

Stalling on an Incline
If your vehicle stalls when you’re crossing an incline,
be sure you (and your passengers) get out on the uphill
side, even if the door there is harder to open. If you get
out on the downhill side and the vehicle starts to roll
over, you’ll be right in its path.
If you have to walk down the slope, stay out of the
path the vehicle will take if it does roll over.

CAUTION:
Getting out on the downhill (low) side of a vehicle
stopped across an incline is dangerous. If the
vehicle rolls over, you could be crushed or killed.
Always get out on the uphill (high) side of the
vehicle and stay well clear of the rollover path.

4-29

Driving in Mud, Sand, Snow or Ice
When you drive in mud, snow or sand, your wheels
won’t get good traction. You can’t accelerate as
quickly, turning is more difficult, and you’ll need
longer braking distances.
It’s best to use a low gear when you’re in mud -- the
deeper the mud, the lower the gear. In really deep mud,
the idea is to keep your vehicle moving so you don’t
get stuck.
When you drive on sand, you’ll sense a change in wheel
traction. But it will depend upon how loosely packed the
sand is. On loosely packed sand (as on beaches or sand
dunes) your tires will tend to sink into the sand. This has
an effect on steering, accelerating and braking. You may
want to reduce the air pressure in your tires slightly
when driving on sand. This will improve traction.
Hard packed snow and ice offer the worst tire traction.
On these surfaces, it’s very easy to lose control. On wet
ice, for example, the traction is so poor that you will
have difficulty accelerating. And if you do get moving,
poor steering and difficult braking can cause you to slide
out of control.

4-30

CAUTION:
Driving on frozen lakes, ponds or rivers can be
dangerous. Underwater springs, currents under
the ice, or sudden thaws can weaken the ice.
Your vehicle could fall through the ice and you
and your passengers could drown. Drive your
vehicle on safe surfaces only.

Driving in Water
Light rain causes no special off-road driving problems.
But heavy rain can mean flash flooding, and flood
waters demand extreme caution.
Find out how deep the water is before you drive through
it. If it’s deep enough to cover your wheel hubs, axles or
exhaust pipe, don’t try it -- you probably won’t get
through. Also, water that deep can damage your axle
and other vehicle parts.

If the water isn’t too deep, then drive through it slowly.
At fast speeds, water splashes on your ignition system
and your vehicle can stall. Stalling can also occur if you
get your tailpipe under water. And, as long as your
tailpipe is under water, you’ll never be able to start your
engine. When you go through water, remember that when
your brakes get wet, it may take you longer to stop.

CAUTION:
Driving through rushing water can be dangerous.
Deep water can sweep your vehicle downstream
and you and your passengers could drown.
If it’s only shallow water, it can still wash away
the ground from under your tires, and you could
lose traction and roll the vehicle over. Don’t drive
through rushing water.

After Off-Road Driving
Remove any brush or debris that has collected on the
underbody, chassis or under the hood. These accumulations
can be a fire hazard.
After operation in mud or sand, have the brake linings
cleaned and checked. These substances can cause
glazing and uneven braking. Check the body structure,
steering, suspension, wheels, tires and exhaust system
for damage. Also, check the fuel lines and cooling
system for any leakage.
Your vehicle will require more frequent service due to
off-road use. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule for
additional information.

See “Driving Through Water” in the Index for more
information on driving through water.

4-31

Driving at Night

Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One
reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired -- by
alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue.

4-32

Here are some tips on night driving.
D Drive defensively.
D Don’t drink and drive.
D Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the
glare from headlamps behind you.
D Since you can’t see as well, you may need to
slow down and keep more space between you
and other vehicles.
D Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your
headlamps can light up only so much road ahead.
D In remote areas, watch for animals.
D If you’re tired, pull off the road in a safe place
and rest.
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as
we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old
driver may require at least twice as much light to see the
same thing at night as a 20-year-old.
What you do in the daytime can also affect your night
vision. For example, if you spend the day in bright
sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes
will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you’re
driving, don’t wear sunglasses at night. They may cut
down on glare from headlamps, but they also make a lot
of things invisible.

You can be temporarily blinded by approaching
headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even
several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark.
When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver
who doesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle with
misaimed headlamps), slow down a little. Avoid staring
directly into the approaching headlamps.

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicle
clean -- inside and out. Glare at night is made much
worse by dirt on the glass. Even the inside of the glass
can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makes
lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would,
making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly.
Remember that your headlamps light up far less of a
roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your
eyes moving; that way, it’s easier to pick out dimly
lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be
checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes
be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night
blindness -- the inability to see in dim light -- and
aren’t even aware of it.

Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet
road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because
your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads.
And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get
even less traction. It’s always wise to go slower and be
cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving.
The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes
are tuned for driving on dry pavement.

4-33

The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your
windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain
can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals,
pavement markings, the edge of the road and even
people walking.
It’s wise to keep your wiping equipment in good shape and
keep your windshield washer tank filled with washer fluid.
Replace your windshield wiper inserts when they show
signs of streaking or missing areas on the windshield, or
when strips of rubber start to separate from the inserts.

Driving too fast through large water puddles or even
going through some car washes can cause problems, too.
The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles.
But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them.

CAUTION:
Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work
as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to
one side. You could lose control of the vehicle.
After driving through a large puddle of water or
a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until
your brakes work normally.

Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up
under your tires that they can actually ride on the water.
This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re
going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning,
it has little or no contact with the road.

4-34

Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But it can if your
tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in one or
more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on
the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone
poles or other vehicles, and raindrops “dimple” the
water’s surface, there could be hydroplaning.

Driving Through Flowing Water

CAUTION:
Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces.
If you try to drive through flowing water, as you
might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can
be carried away. As little as six inches of flowing
water can carry away a smaller vehicle. If this
happens, you and the other vehicle occupants
could drown. Don’t ignore police warning signs,
and otherwise be very cautious about trying to
drive through flowing water.

Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds.
There just isn’t a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning.
The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.

Driving Through Deep Standing Water

NOTICE:
If you drive too quickly through deep puddles
or standing water, water can come in through
your engine’s air intake and badly damage your
engine. Never drive through water that is slightly
lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you
can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive
through them very slowly.

Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
D Turn on your low-beam headlamps -- not just
your parking lamps -- to help make you more visible
to others.

D Besides slowing down, allow some extra following

distance. And be especially careful when you pass
another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room
ahead, and be prepared to have your view restricted
by road spray.
Have good tires with proper tread depth.
See “Tires” in the Index.

4-35

City Driving

Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:

D Know the best way to get to where you are

going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an
unknown part of the city just as you would for a
cross-country trip.

D Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross
most large cities. You’ll save time and energy.
See the next part, “Freeway Driving.”

D Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic

light is there because the corner is busy enough to
need it. When a light turns green, and just before
you start to move, check both ways for vehicles that
have not cleared the intersection or may be running
the red light.

One of the biggest problems with city streets is the
amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out
for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention
to traffic signals.

4-36

Freeway Driving

At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the
freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you
drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to
check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to
blend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close to
the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check
your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as
necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.
Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to
the posted limit or to the prevailing rate if it’s slower.
Stay in the right lane unless you want to pass.
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use
your turn signal.
Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your
shoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle in
your “blind” spot.

Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways,
expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest
of all roads. But they have their own special rules.
The most important advice on freeway driving is:
Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at
the same speed most of the other drivers are driving.
Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic
flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane.

Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you
allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move
slightly slower at night.
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the
proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit,
do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up.
Drive on to the next exit.

4-37

The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.

Here are some things you can check before a trip:

The exit speed is usually posted.

D Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full?

Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not
to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance
at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going
slower than you actually are.

Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Make sure you’re ready. Try to be well rested. If you
must start when you’re not fresh -- such as after a day’s
work -- don’t plan to make too many miles that first part
of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you
can easily drive in.
Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it
serviced and maintained, it’s ready to go. If it needs
service, have it done before starting out. Of course,
you’ll find experienced and able service experts in
GM dealerships all across North America.
They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it.

4-38

Are all windows clean inside and outside?

D Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?
D Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked
all levels?

D Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?
D Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,
trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for
long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to
the recommended pressure?

D Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook
along your route? Should you delay your trip a
short time to avoid a major storm system?

D Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?

Highway Hypnosis

Hill and Mountain Roads

Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”?
Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it
highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever.
There is something about an easy stretch of road with
the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the
road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind
against the vehicle that can make you sleepy. Don’t let it
happen to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the
road in less than a second, and you could crash and
be injured.
What can you do about highway hypnosis?
First, be aware that it can happen.
Then here are some tips:

D Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a
comfortably cool interior.

D Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead

and to the sides. Check your mirrors and your
instruments frequently.

Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from
driving in flat or rolling terrain.

D If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service
or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or
both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as
an emergency.

4-39

If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning
to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips
safer and more enjoyable. See “Off-Road Driving” in the
Index for information about driving off-road.

CAUTION:
Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the
ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to
do all the work of slowing down. They could get so
hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then
have poor braking or even none going down a hill.
You could crash. Always have your engine running
and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.

D Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid

levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and
transmission. These parts can work hard on
mountain roads.

D Know how to go down hills. The most important

thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the
slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go
down a steep or long hill.

CAUTION:
If you don’t shift down, your brakes could get so
hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then
have poor braking or even none going down a hill.
You could crash. Shift down to let your engine
assist your brakes on a steep downhill slope.

4-40

D Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to
a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and
transmission, and you can climb the hill better.

D Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane

D
D

roads in hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cut
across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let
you stay in your own lane.
As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There could be
something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident.
You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of
special problems. Examples are long grades, passing
or no-passing zones, a falling rocks area or winding
roads. Be alert to these and take appropriate action.

Winter Driving

Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply
of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer
clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and
reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving
under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a
piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help
provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these
items in your vehicle.

Driving on Snow or Ice
Most of the time, those places where your tires meet
the road probably have good traction.
However, if there is snow or ice between your tires
and the road, you can have a very slippery situation.
You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need
to be very careful.

Here are some tips for winter driving:

D Have your vehicle in good shape for winter.
D You may want to put winter emergency supplies in
your vehicle.

4-41

Whatever the condition -- smooth ice, packed, blowing
or loose snow -- drive with caution.
Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction.
’If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and
polish the surface under the tires even more.
Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability
when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even
though you have an anti-lock braking system, you’ll
want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry
pavement. See “Anti-Lock” in the Index.

D Allow greater following distance on any
slippery road.

D Watch for slippery spots. The road might be
What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold
snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet
ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the
least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s about
freezing (32_F; 0_C) and freezing rain begins to fall.
Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews
can get there.

4-42

fine until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice.
On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear
in shaded areas where the sun can’t reach: around
clumps of trees, behind buildings or under bridges.
Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass
may remain icy when the surrounding roads are
clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you,
brake before you are on it. Try not to brake
while you’re actually on the ice, and avoid sudden
steering maneuvers.

If You’re Caught in a Blizzard

D Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that
you’ve been stopped by the snow.

D Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you.

If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body
insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor
mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or
tuck under your clothing to keep warm.

If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a
serious situation. You should probably stay with your
vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help
and you can hike through the snow. Here are some
things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your
passengers safe:

D Turn on your hazard flashers.

You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.

4-43

CAUTION:
Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle.
This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas
to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill
you. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might not
know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from
around the base of your vehicle, especially any
that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check
around again from time to time to be sure snow
doesn’t collect there.
Open a window just a little on the side of the
vehicle that’s away from the wind. This will help
keep CO out.

4-44

Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves
fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster
than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly.
This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it
keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged
battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling
later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for
a while.
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost
all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again
and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable
from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the
fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get
out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises
every half hour or so until help comes.

Recreational Vehicle Towing
There may be times when you want to tow your vehicle
behind another vehicle for use at your destination.
Be sure to use the proper towing equipment designed
for recreational vehicle towing. Follow the instructions
for the towing equipment.
When towing your vehicle, turn the ignition to OFF. To
prevent your battery from draining while towing, remove
the IGN 0 fuse from the instrument panel fuse block.
Be sure to replace the fuse when you reach your destination.
See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.

Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles
Two-wheel-drive vehicles, should not be towed
with all four wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drive
transmissions have no provisions for internal lubrication
while being towed. To properly tow these vehicles,
they should be placed on a platform trailer with all
four wheels off the ground.
In rare cases when it’s unavoidable that a
two-wheel-drive vehicle is to be towed with all four
wheels on the ground, the propeller shaft to axle yoke
orientation should be marked and the propeller shaft
removed following the applicable service manual
removal/installation procedure.
Dust or dirt can enter the back of the transmission
through the opening created by removing the propeller
shaft if proper protection is not provided. Also, check
the transmission fluid level before driving the truck.

4-45

Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles

CAUTION:
Shifting the transfer case into NEUTRAL can
cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission
is in PARK (P), for an automatic transmission,
or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual
transmission. You or others could be injured.
Make sure the parking brake is firmly set before
you shift the transfer case into NEUTRAL.

Use the following procedure to correctly tow your
vehicle on all four wheels:
1. Firmly set the parking brake.
2. Shift an automatic transmission to PARK (P),
or a manual transmission to FIRST (1).
3. Securely attach the vehicle being towed to the
tow vehicle.
4. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL (N).
See “Four-Wheel Drive” in the Index for the
proper procedure to select the neutral position for
your vehicle.
5. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle
being towed is firmly attached to the towing vehicle.
6. Turn the ignition to OFF. The OFF position unlocks
the steering column and reduces battery drain as long
as the IGN 0 fuse is removed. Unlocking the steering
column will allow the proper movement of the front
wheels and tires during towing.

4-46

Loading Your Vehicle

The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum
weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads
on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a weigh
station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can help
you with this. Be sure to spread out your load equally
on both sides of the centerline.
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the
GAWR for either the front or rear axle.
The Certification/Tire label also contains information
about your Front Axle Reserve Capacity. See “Front
Axle Reserve Capacity” later in this section.
And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread
it out.

The Certification/Tire label is found on the rear edge of
the driver’s door or in the Incomplete Vehicle Document
in the cab.
The label shows the size of your original tires and the
inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight
capacity of your vehicle. This is called the GVWR
(Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includes
the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo.

CAUTION:
In the case of a sudden stop or collision, things
carried in the bed of your truck could shift
forward and come into the passenger area,
injuring you and others. If you put things in
the bed of your truck, you should make sure
they are properly secured.

4-47

CAUTION:
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the
GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear
GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can
break, and it can change the way your vehicle
handles. These could cause you to lose control
and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life
of your vehicle.
Your warranty does not cover parts or components that
fail because of overloading.
This will help you decide how much cargo and installed
equipment your truck can carry.
Using heavier suspension components to get added
durability might not change your weight ratings. Ask
your dealer to help you load your vehicle the right way.
If you put things inside your vehicle -- like suitcases,
tools, packages, or anything else -- they go as fast as
the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or
if there is a crash, they’ll keep going.

4-48

CAUTION:
Things you put inside your vehicle can strike
and injure people in a sudden stop or turn,
or in a crash.
D Put things in the cargo area of your vehicle.
Try to spread the weight evenly.
D Never stack heavier things, like suitcases,
inside the vehicle so that some of them are
above the tops of the seats.
D Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint
in your vehicle.
D When you carry something inside the
vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
D Don’t leave a seat folded down unless
you need to.
There’s also important loading information for off-road
driving in this manual. See “Loading Your Vehicle for
Off-Road Driving” in the Index.

Adding a Snow Plow or
Similar Equipment
Before installing a snow plow on your vehicle, here are
some things you’ll need to know:

How do I know if my vehicle can handle a
snow plow?

Some vehicles are built with a special package,
called RPO VYU (snow plow prep package).
If your vehicle has this option, you can add a
plow to it, provided certain weights, such as the
weights on the vehicle’s axles and the GVW,
aren’t exceeded.

Q:
A:

How heavy can a snow plow safely be?

NOTICE:
If your vehicle doesn’t have the snow plow prep
package, adding a plow can damage your vehicle,
and the repairs wouldn’t be covered by warranty.
Unless your vehicle was built to carry a snow
plow, don’t add one to your vehicle.
If your vehicle has the snow plow option called
RPO VYU (snow plow prep package), then the
payload your vehicle can carry will be reduced
when a snow plow is installed. Your vehicle can
be damaged if either the front or rear axle
ratings, or the GVW, are exceeded.

The plow your vehicle can carry depends on many
things, such as:

D The options your vehicle came with, and the weight
of those options,

D The weight and number of passengers you intend
to carry,

D The weight of items you’ve added to your vehicle,
like a tool box or truck cap,

4-49

D The total weight of any additional cargo you intend
to carry.

Say, for example, you have a 700 lb. (318 kg) snow
plow. The total weight of all occupants and cargo
inside the cab should not exceed 300 lb. (135 kg).
This means that you may only be able to carry
one passenger. But, even this may be too much if
you’ve got other equipment already adding to the
weight of your vehicle.

D Follow the snow plow manufacturer’s

recommendations regarding rear ballast.
Rear ballast may be required to ensure a proper
front and rear weight distribution ratio, even
though the actual weight at the front axle may be
less than the front axle rating.

D The snow plow manufacturer or installer can

Here are some guidelines for safely carrying a
snow plow on your vehicle:

assist you in determining the amount of rear ballast
required, to help make sure your snowplow/vehicle
combination does not exceed the GVW rating, the
front and rear axle ratings, and the front and rear
weight distribution ratio.

D Make sure the weight on the front and rear axles

D The total vehicle must not exceed the GVW rating.

doesn’t exceed the axle rating for each.

D For the front axle, if more cargo or passengers

must be carried, appropriate counter ballast must be
installed rear of the rear axle. Counter ballast must
be properly secured so it won’t move during driving.

4-50

What is front axle reserve capacity, and how
do I calculate it?

Front axle reserve capacity is the difference
between your front GAWR and the front axle
weight of your truck with full fuel and passengers.
Basically, it’s the amount of weight you can add to
your front axle before reaching your front GAWR.

In order to calculate the amount of weight any front
accessory, such as a snow plow, is adding to the
front axle, use the following formula:

The front axle reserve
capacity for your
vehicle can be
found in the lower
right corner of the
tire/certification label.

(W x (A + W.B))/W.B.= Weight the accessory is
adding to the front axle.
Where:
W=Weight of added accessory
A=Distance that the accessory is in front of the
A=front axle
W.B.=Vehicle Wheelbase

4-51

For example, adding a 700 lb. (318 kg) snow plow
actually adds more than 700 lb. (318 kg) to the
front axle. Using the formula, if the snow plow is
4 ft. (122 cm) in front of the front axle and the
wheel base is 10 ft. (305 cm), then:
W=700 lb. (318 kg)
A=4 ft. (122 cm)
W.B.=10 ft. (305 cm)
(W x (A + W.B.))/W.B.= (700 x (4 + 10))/10 =
980 lb. (445 kg)
So, if your truck’s front axle reserve capacity is
more than 980 lb. (445 kg), you could add this
snow plow without exceeding the front GAWR.

What if I want to add heavier equipment to
my vehicle?

You can add heavier equipment on the front of the
vehicle if you compensate for it by carrying fewer
passengers, less cargo, or by positioning cargo more
towards the rear. This has the effect of reducing the
load on the front. However, the front GAWR, rear
GAWR and the GVWR must never be exceeded.

4-52

CAUTION:
On some vehicles equipped with certain front
mounted equipment, such as a snow plow, it may
be possible to load the front axle to the front
GAWR but not have enough weight on the rear
axle to have proper braking performance.
If your brakes can’t work properly, you could
have a crash. To help your brakes work properly
when a snow plow is installed, always follow
the snow plow manufacturer or installer’s
recommendation for rear ballast to ensure a
proper front and rear weight distribution ratio,
even though the actual front weight may be less
than the front GAWR, and the total vehicle
weight is less than the GVWR. Maintaining a
proper front and rear weight distribution ratio is
necessary to provide proper braking performance.

Q:
A:

What is total vehicle reserve capacity?

Truck-Camper Loading Information

This is the difference between your GVWR and the
weight of your truck with full fuel and passengers.
It’s the amount of weight you can add to your
vehicle before reaching your GVWR.

This label is inside your glove box. It will tell you if
your vehicle can carry a slide-in camper, how much of a
load your vehicle can carry, and how to correctly spread
out your load. Also, it will help you match the right
slide-in camper to your vehicle.

Keep in mind that reserve capacity numbers are
intended as a guide when selecting the amount of
equipment or cargo your truck can carry. If you
are unsure of your truck’s front, rear or total
weight, go to a weight station and weigh your
vehicle. Your dealer can also help you with this.

When you carry a slide-in camper, the total cargo load
of your vehicle is the weight of the camper, plus
D everything else added to the camper after it left
the factory,
D everything in the camper and
D all the people inside.

See your dealer for additional advice and information
about using a snow plow on your vehicle. Also, see
“Loading Your Vehicle” earlier in this section.

The Cargo Weight Rating (CWR) is the maximum
weight of the load your vehicle can carry. It doesn’t
include the weight of the people inside. But, you can
figure about 150 lbs. (68 kg) for each seat.
The total cargo load must not be more than your
vehicle’s CWR.

4-53

Refer to the Truck-Camper Loading Information label
in glove box for dimensions A and B as shown in the
following illustration.

Here is an example of proper truck and camper match:

A. Camper Center of Gravity
Use the rear edge of the load floor for measurement
purposes. The recommended location for the cargo center
of gravity is at point C for the CWR. It is the point where
the mass of a body is concentrated and, if suspended at
that point, would balance the front and rear.

B. Recommended Center of Gravity Location Zone
The camper’s center of gravity should fall within the
center of gravity zone for your vehicle’s cargo load.
You must weigh any accessories or other equipment
that you add to your vehicle. Then, subtract this extra
weight from the CWR. This extra weight may shorten
the center of gravity zone of your vehicle. Your dealer
can help you with this.
If your slide-in camper and its load weighs less than
the CWR, the center of gravity zone for your vehicle
may be larger.

4-54

Your dealer can help you make a good vehicle-camper
match. He’ll also help you determine your CWR.
After you’ve loaded your vehicle and camper, drive to
a weigh station and weigh the front and rear wheels
separately. This will tell you the loads on your axles.
The loads on the front and rear axles shouldn’t be more
than either of the GAWRs. The total of the axle loads
should not be more than the GVWR.
Open your driver’s door and look at the
Certification/Tire label to find out your GAWR
and GVWR.

Trailer Recommendations
You must subtract your hitch loads from the CWR
for your vehicle. Weigh your vehicle with the trailer
attached, so that you won’t go over the GVWR or
GAWR. If you are using a weight-distributing hitch,
weigh the vehicle without the equalizer bars in place.
You’ll get the best performance if you spread out the
weight of your load the right way, and if you choose the
correct hitch and trailer brakes.
For more information, see “Trailer Towing” in
the Index.

If you’ve gone over your weight ratings, move or
take out some things until all the weight falls below
the ratings. Of course, you should always tie down
any loose items when you load your vehicle or camper.

Camper Wiring Harness
(If Equipped)

When you install and load your slide-in camper,
check the manufacturer’s instructions.

If your vehicle is equipped with a camper wiring
harness, see “Trailer Wiring Harness” in the Index
for further information.

If you want more information on curb weights, cargo
weights, Cargo Weight Rating and the correct center of
gravity zone for your vehicle, your dealer can help you.
Just ask for a copy of “Consumer Information,
Truck-Camper Loading.”

4-55

Pickup Conversion to Chassis Cab
General Motors is aware that some vehicle owners
may consider having the pickup box removed and a
commercial or recreational body installed. Before you
do so, first contact the GM Customer Assistance
Office for your area for information on such conversions
specific to this vehicle. See the “Warranty and Owner
Assistance” booklet for Customer Assistance Office.
Owners should be aware that, as manufactured, there
are differences between a chassis cab and a pickup
with the box removed which may affect vehicle safety.
The components necessary to adapt a pickup to permit
its safe use with a specialized body should be installed
by a body builder in accordance with the information
available from the Customer Assistance Office.

4-56

Towing a Trailer
CAUTION:
If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive
properly, you can lose control when you pull a
trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy,
the brakes may not work well -- or even at all.
You and your passengers could be seriously
injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed
all the steps in this section. Ask your dealer for
advice and information about towing a trailer
with your vehicle.

NOTICE:
Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your
vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by
your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow
the advice in this part, and see your dealer for
important information about towing a trailer
with your vehicle. Additional rear rear axle
maintenance is required for a vehicle used to tow
a trailer. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services”
in the Index.
To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for
your vehicle, you should read the information in
“Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section.
If yours was built with trailering options, as many are,
it’s ready for heavier trailers. But trailering is different
than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means
changes in handling, durability and fuel economy.
Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment,
and it has to be used properly.

That’s the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested,
important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are
important for your safety and that of your passengers. So
please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer.

If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
If you do, here are some important points:

D There are many different laws, including speed limit
restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure
your rig will be legal, not only where you live but
also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this
information can be state or provincial police.

D Consider using a sway control if your trailer will

weigh less than the capacity stamped on your step
bumper. You should always use a sway control
if your trailer will weigh more than the capacity
stamped on your step bumper. You can ask a
hitch dealer about sway controls.

D Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles

(800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine,
axle or other parts could be damaged.

4-57

D Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you

tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and
don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your
engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.

D If you have an automatic transmission, you can

tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the
transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower
gear selection if the transmission shifts too often
(e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions).
If you have a manual transmission and you are
towing a trailer, it’s better not to use FIFTH (5)
gear. Just drive in FOURTH (4) gear (or, as you
need to, a lower gear). See “Tow/Haul Mode”
in the Index.

Three important considerations have to do with weight:

D the weight of the trailer,
D the weight of the trailer tongue
D and the weight on your vehicle’s tires.

4-58

Tow/Haul Mode (If Equipped)
Tow/haul is a feature on automatic transmission
equipped vehicles that assists when pulling a heavy
trailer or a large or heavy load. The purpose of the
tow/haul mode is to:

D Reduce the frequency and improve the predictability
of transmission shifts when pulling a heavy trailer
or a large or heavy load.

D Provide the same solid shift feel when pulling a

heavy trailer or a large or heavy load as when the
vehicle is unloaded.

D Improve control of vehicle speed while requiring
less throttle pedal activity when pulling a heavy
trailer or a large or heavy load.

Automatic transmission equipped vehicles are provided
with a button at the end of the shift lever which when
pressed enables tow/haul. When the button is pressed,
a light on the instrument panel will illuminate to indicate
that tow/haul has been selected. Tow/haul may be turned
off by pressing the button again, at which time the
indicator light on the instrument panel will turn off.
The vehicle will automatically turn off tow/haul every
time it is started.

Tow/haul is designed to be most effective when the
vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75% of
the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
Tow/haul is most useful under the following
driving conditions:

D When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load
through rolling terrain.

D When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load
in stop and go traffic.

D When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load
in busy parking lots where improved low speed
control of the vehicle is desired.

Operating the vehicle in tow/haul when lightly loaded
or with no trailer at all will not cause damage. However,
there is no benefit to the selection of tow/haul when the
vehicle is unloaded. Such a selection when unloaded
may result in unpleasant engine and transmission
driving characteristics and reduced fuel economy.
Tow/haul is recommended only when pulling a
heavy trailer or a large or heavy load.

Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It depends on how you plan to use your rig.
For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside
temperature and how much your vehicle is used to
pull a trailer are all important. And, it can also depend
on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle.
Use one of the following charts to determine how much
your vehicle can weigh, based upon your vehicle model
and options.
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming the
driver and one passenger are in the tow vehicle and it
has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of
additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in
the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum
trailer weight.
Above the 5,000 lbs. (2 268 kg) trailer rating, the
handling/trailering suspension is required on C-1500
models and the handling/trailering or off-road
suspension is required on K-1500 models. The engine
oil cooler is required on C/K-2500 models with the
VORTEC 6000 engine. Refer to the Trailering Guide
for oil cooler recommendations.

4-59

C-1500 Regular Cab Short Box (2WD)*

C-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (2WD)*

Engine (Trans.)

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

Engine (Trans.)

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

4300 V6 (Auto)

3.08

4,700 lbs. (2 132 kg)

4300 V6 (Auto)

3.42

4,900 lbs. (2 223 kg)

3.42

5,200 lbs. (2 359 kg)

3.73

5,900 lbs. (2 676 kg)

3.08

3,700 lbs. (1 678 kg)

4300 V6 (Manual)

3.42

3,900 lbs. (1 769 kg)

3.42

4,200 lbs. (1 905 kg)

4800 V8 (Auto)

3.42

6,300 lbs. (2 858 kg)

3.42

6,600 lbs. (2 994 kg)

3.73

7,300 lbs. (3 311 kg)

3.73

7,600 lbs. (3 447 kg)

3.42

4,300 lbs. (1 950 kg)

3.42

4,600 lbs. (2 087 kg)

3.73

5,300 lbs. (2 404 kg)

3.73

5,600 lbs. (2 540 kg)

3.42

7,300 lbs. (3 311 kg)

3.42

7,600 lbs. (3 447 kg)

3.73

8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg)

3.73

8,600 lbs. (3 901 kg)

4300 V6 (Manual)
4800 V8 (Auto)
4800 V8 (Manual)
5300 V8

4800 V8 (Manual)
5300 V8

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10% to 15% of trailer weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15% to 25% of trailer weight 1,500 lb. (680 kg) maximum.

4-60

C-1500 Crew Cab Short Box (2WD)*
Engine (Trans.)
6000 V8

Axle
Ratio
3.73
4.10

C-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (2WD)*

Max. Trailer Wt.

Engine (Trans.)

8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg)
10,300 lbs. (4 672 kg)

4800 V8 (Auto)
4800 V8 (Manual)

C-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (2WD)*
Engine (Trans.)
4300 V6 (Auto)
4300 V6 (Manual)
4800 V8 (Auto)
4800 V8 (Manual)
5300 V8

Axle
Ratio
3.08
3.42
3.08
3.42
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt.

5300 V8

Axle
Ratio
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73

Max. Trailer Wt.
6,100 lbs. (2 767 kg)
7,100 lbs. (3 220 kg)
4,100 lbs. (1 860 kg)
5,100 lbs. (2 313 kg)
7,100 lbs. (3 220 kg)
8,100 lbs. (3 674 kg)

4,600 lbs. (2 087 kg)
5,100 lbs. (2 313 kg)
3,600 lbs. (1 633 kg)
4,100 lbs. (1 860 kg)
6,500 lbs. (2 948 kg)
7,500 lbs. (3 402 kg)
4,500 lbs. (2 041 kg)
5,500 lbs. (2 495 kg)
7,500 lbs. (3 402 kg)
8,500 lbs. (3 856 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10% to 15% of trailer weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15% to 25% of trailer weight 1,500 lb. (680 kg) maximum.

4-61

K-1500 Regular Cab Short Box (4WD)*
Engine (Trans.)
4300 V6 (Auto)
4300 V6 (Manual)
4800 V8 (Auto)
4800 V8 (Manual)
5300 V8

Axle
Ratio
3.42
3.73
3.42
3.73
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10

K-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (4WD)*

Max. Trailer Wt.

Engine (Trans.)

4,900 lbs. (2 223 kg)
5,400 lbs. (2 449 kg)
3,900 lbs. (1 769 kg)
4,400 lbs. (1 996 kg)
7,300 lbs. (3 311 kg)
8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg)
5,300 lbs. (2 404 kg)
6,300 lbs. (2 858 kg)
8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg)
9,300 lbs. (4 218 kg)

4800 V8 (Auto)
4800 V8 (Manual)
5300 V8

Axle
Ratio
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt.
7,000 lbs. (3 175 kg)
8,000 lbs. (3 629 kg)
5,000 lbs. (2 268 kg)
6,000 lbs. (2 624 kg)
8,000 lbs. (3 629 kg)
9,000 lbs. (4 082 kg)

K-1500 Crew Cab Short Box (4WD)*
Engine (Trans.)
6000 V8

Axle
Ratio
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt.
8,000 lbs. (3 629 kg)
10,000 lbs. (4 536 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10% to 15% of trailer weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15% to 25% of trailer weight 1,500 lb. (680 kg) maximum.

4-62

K-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (4WD)*

K-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (4WD)*

Engine (Trans.)

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

Engine (Trans.)

4300 V6 (Auto)

3.42

4,800 lbs. (2 177 kg)

4800 V8 (Auto)

3.73

5,300 lbs. (2 404 kg)

3.42

3,800 lbs. (1 724 kg)

3.73

4,300 lbs. (1 950 kg)

3.73

7,200 lbs. (3 266 kg)

4.10

8,200 lbs. (3 719 kg)

3.73

5,200 lbs. (2 359 kg)

4.10

6,200 lbs. (2 812 kg)

3.73

8,200 lbs. (3 719 kg)

4.10

9,200 lbs. (4 173 kg)

4300 V6 (Manual)
4800 V8 (Auto)
4800 V8 (Manual)
5300 V8

4800 V8 (Manual)
5300 V8

Axle
Ratio
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt.
6,800 lbs. (3 084 kg)
7,800 lbs. (3 538 kg)
4,800 lbs. (2 177 kg)
5,800 lbs. (2 631 kg)
7,800 lbs. (3 538 kg)
8,800 lbs. (3 992 kg)

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10% to 15% of trailer weight 1,000 lb. (454 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15% to 25% of trailer weight 1,500 lb. (680 kg) maximum.

4-63

C-2500 (2WD)*
Engine
6000 V8

C-2500 Extended Cab Short Box HD (2WD)*
Axle
Ratio
3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt.

Engine

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

8,800 lbs. (3 992 kg)
10,800 lbs. (4 899 kg)

6000 V8

4.10

10,500 lbs. (4 763 kg)

8100 V8

3.73

13,800 lbs. (6 260 kg)**

4.10

15,800 lbs. (7 167 kg)**

6600 V8 Diesel 3.73

15,700 lbs. (7 121 kg)**

4.10

15,700 lbs. (7 121 kg)**

C-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (2WD)*
Engine

Axle
Ratio
6000 V8
4.10
8100 V8
3.73
4.10
6600 V8 Diesel 3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt.
10,600 lbs. (3 402 kg)
13,900 lbs. (6 311 kg)**
15,900 lbs. (7 212 kg)**
15,900 lbs. (7 212 kg)**
15,900 lbs. (7 212 kg)**

* Weight-distributing hitch tongue weight 10% to 15% of trailer weight 1,200 lb. (544 kg) maximum.
Fifth-wheel hitch tongue weight 15% to 25% of trailer weight 2,500 lb. (1 134 kg) maximum.
** Fifth-wheel hitch rating; weight distributing hitch rating is limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) maximum.

4-64

C-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (2WD)*

C-2500 Crew Cab Short Box HD (2WD)*

Engine

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

Engine

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

6000 V8

4.10

10,200 lbs. (4 627 kg)

6000 V8

4.10

10,300 lbs. (4 672 kg)

8100 V8

3.73

13,400 lbs. (6 078 kg)**

8100 V8

3.73

13,600 lbs. (6 169 kg)**

4.10

15,400 lbs. (6 985 kg)**

4.10

15,600 lbs. (7 076 kg)**

6600 V8 Diesel 3.73

14,900 lbs. (6 758 kg)**

6600 V8 Diesel 3.73

15,500 lbs. (7 031 kg)**

4.10

14,900 lbs. (6 758 kg)**

4.10

15,500 lbs. (7 031 kg)**

4-65

C-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (2WD)*
Engine

Axle
Ratio
6000 V8
4.10
8100 V8
3.73
4.10
6600 V8 Diesel 3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt.
10,200 lbs. (4 627 kg)
13,500 lbs. (6 123 kg)**
15,500 lbs. (7 031 kg)**
14,900 lbs. (6 758 kg)**
14,900 lbs. (6 758 kg)**

K-2500 Extended Cab Short Box HD (4WD)*
Engine

Axle
Ratio
6000 V8
4.10
8100 V8
3.73
4.10
6600 V8 Diesel 3.73
4.10

Max. Trailer Wt.
10,200 lbs. (4 627 kg)
13,500 lbs. (6 123 kg)**
15,500 lbs. (7 031 kg)**
15,400 lbs. (6 985 kg)**
15,400 lbs. (6 985 kg)**

K-2500 Extended Cab Short Box (4WD)*
Engine
Axle
Max. Trailer Wt.
Ratio
6000 V8
3.73
8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg)
4.10
10,300 lbs. (4 672 kg)

4-66

K-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (4WD)*

K-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (4WD)*

Engine

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

Engine

Max. Trailer Wt.

6000 V8

Axle
Ratio
4.10

6000 V8

4.10

10,400 lbs. (4 717 kg)

8100 V8

3.73

13,700 lbs. (6 214 kg)**

8100 V8

3.73

13,500 lbs. (6 123 kg)**

4.10

15,700 lbs. (7 121 kg)**

4.10

15,500 lbs. (7 031 kg)**

6600 V8 Diesel 3.73

15,600 lbs. (7 076 kg)**

6600 V8 Diesel 3.73

15,500 lbs. (7 031 kg)**

4.10

15,600 lbs. (7 076 kg)**

4.10

15,500 lbs. (7 031 kg)**

10,200 lbs. (4 627 kg)

4-67

K-2500 Crew Cab Short Box HD (4WD)*
Engine

Axle
Ratio

Max. Trailer Wt.

6000 V8

4.10

10,000 lbs. (4 536 kg)

8100 V8

3.73

13,200 lbs. (5 987 kg)**

4.10

15,200 lbs. (6 895 kg)**

6600 V8 Diesel 3.73

15,200 lbs. (6 895 kg)**

4.10

15,200 lbs. (6 895 kg)**

K-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (4WD)*
Engine
Axle
Max. Trailer Wt.
Ratio
6000 V8
4.10
9,900 lbs. (4 491 kg)
8100 V8
3.73
13,200 lbs. (5 987 kg)**
4.10
15,200 lbs. (6 895 kg)**
6600 V8 Diesel 3.73
15,100 lbs. (6 849 kg)**
4.10
15,100 lbs. (6 849 kg)**

4-68

C-3500 Regular Cab HD (2WD)*
Engine