2006 HUMMER H2 power steering

Midgate Window
If your vehicle has a midgate, the switch to operate the
window is located on the instrument panel to the left
of the steering wheel. SeeInstrument Panel Overview
on page 3-4.
K(Midgate Window):Press the bottom of the switch
to express-down the window. Press the top of the
switch to express-up the window. Press the top or
bottom of the switch a second time to stop the window.
The window switch will operate while the ignition is
in RUN or ACCESSORY, or while Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) is active. SeeRetained Accessory
Power (RAP) on page 2-25.
The window can also be operated using the global
window buttons. See “Global Window Feature”
previously.
{CAUTION:
If express override is activated, the midgate
window will not reverse automatically. You or
others could be injured and the window could
be damaged. Before you use express override,
make sure that all people and obstructions are
clear of the midgate window path.
Midgate Window Express Override Mode
If an obstruction or weather condition such as severe
icing stops the window as it is moving upward, the
window will automatically reverse to a partially open
position. The window will return to normal operation
once the obstruction or condition is removed.
The window auto-reversal function can be overridden in
the express override mode. To override, the window
must be operated manually by pressing and holding the
midgate window switch or the global window button.
This must be done within two seconds after the midgate
window has stopped at a partially open position. The
express override mode only works immediately following
a window auto-reversal. Window express functions
will not work while in this mode.
Midgate Window Error/Jog Mode
If the midgate window has sensed conditions which may
lead to damage or malfunction of the window system,
the window will automatically go into Error/Jog mode. In
this mode, window express functions will not work.
The window can only be operated manually by pressing
the midgate window switch or the global window
button. The window will move slightly and stop. Press
and hold the window switch or global window button
to continue to close the window a small amount
at a time.
2-20

Notice:Using a tool to force the key from the
ignition switch could cause damage or break the
key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with
your hand. Make sure the key is all the way in. If
it is, turn the steering wheel left and right while you
turn the key hard. If none of this works, then
your vehicle needs service.
B (ACCESSORY):This position lets you use things like
the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine
is off.
Notice:Lengthy operation of features such as the
radio in the accessory ignition position may drain the
battery and prevent your vehicle from starting. Do not
operate your vehicle in the accessory ignition
position for a long period of time.
C (RUN):This is the position for driving.
D (START):This position starts the engine.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
The Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature will allow
certain features on your vehicle to continue to work
for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to
LOCK or until one of the doors is opened.
Starting the Engine
Your vehicle is equipped with Starter Motor Control.
This feature assists in starting the engine and protects
the electrical system. This feature may cause the
engine to crank even after the ignition key is not
in START.
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Your engine will not start in any other position — that is
a safety feature. To restart when you are already
moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice:Do not 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.
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 disengage the starter
motor, cause your battery to be drained much
sooner, and add excessive heat that can damage
your starter motor. Try not to hold the key in
START for longer than 15 seconds and wait about
15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining
your battery or damaging your starter.
2-25

Notice:Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in
one place on a hill using only the accelerator
pedal may damage the transmission. If you are
stuck, do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill,
use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place.
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.
Tow/Haul Mode
Your vehicle is equipped
with a tow/haul mode.
The button is located
on the instrument panel
to the right of the
steering wheel.
You can use this feature to assist when towing or
hauling a heavy load. See “Tow/Haul Mode” under
Towing a Trailer on page 4-63for more information.
Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive
The transfer case on your Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive
vehicle is designed to constantly send your engine’s
driving power to all four wheels for extra traction. To get
the most out of Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive, you
must be familiar with its operation.
Notice:Driving on pavement in Four-Wheel
High Lock or Four Wheel Low Lock for extended
periods may cause premature wear on your vehicle’s
powertrain and tires. Do not drive in Four-Wheel
High Lock or Four-Wheel Low Lock on pavement for
extended periods.
Transfer Case Buttons
The transfer case buttons
are located to the right of
the instrument panel
cluster. Use these switches
to shift into and out of
the different Full-Time
Four-Wheel Drive modes.
2-30

The main components of your instrument panel are the following:
A. Air Outlets. SeeOutlet Adjustment on page 3-28.
B. Exterior Lamps Control. SeeExterior Lamps
on page 3-14.
C. Heated Windshield Washer Control (If Equipped).
SeeWindshield Washer on page 3-9.
D. OnStar
®and Radio Steering Wheel Buttons. See
OnStar®System on page 2-48andAudio Steering
Wheel Controls on page 3-110.
E. Instrument Panel Cluster. SeeInstrument Panel
Cluster on page 3-30.
F. Locking Rear Axle and Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive
Buttons. SeeLocking Rear Axle on page 4-10
andFull-Time Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-30.
G. Audio System. SeeAudio System(s) on page 3-61.
H. Airbag Switch. SeeAirbag Off Switch on page 1-65.
I. Glove Box. SeeGlove Box on page 2-54.
J. Midgate Glass Up/Down Switch (SUT). See
Midgate
®(SUT) on page 2-12. Rear Wiper/Washer
Switch (SUV). SeeRear Window Wiper/Washer
(SUV) on page 3-10.
K. Dome Override Button. SeeDome Lamp Override
on page 3-18.
L. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. SeeTurn
Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7.M. Tilt Lever. SeeTilt Wheel on page 3-6.
N. Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons. SeeDriver
Information Center (DIC) on page 3-45.
O. Parking Brake Release. SeeParking Brake on
page 2-34.
P. Traction Control Button. SeeTraction Control
System (TCS) on page 4-9.
Q. Tow/Haul Selector Button. See “Tow/Haul Mode”
underTowing a Trailer on page 4-63.
R. Ride Height Selector Button (If Equipped). See
Selectable Extended Rear Ride Height on page 4-61.
S. Cigarette Lighter or Accessory Power Outlet (If
Equipped). SeeAshtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter on
page 3-22orAccessory Power Outlet(s) on
page 3-21.
T. Shift Lever. SeeAutomatic Transmission Operation
on page 2-27.
U. Accessory Power Outlets. SeeAccessory Power
Outlet(s) on page 3-21.
V. OnStar Buttons. SeeOnStar
®System on page 2-48.
W. Rear Window Defogger Button. See “Rear Window
Defogger” underDual Automatic Climate Control
System on page 3-22.
X. Climate Control System. SeeDual Automatic
Climate Control System on page 3-22.
3-5

While your vehicle is parked:
Familiarize yourself with all of its controls.
Familiarize yourself with its operation.
Set up your audio system by presetting your
favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and
adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving
conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite
radio stations using the presets and steering wheel
controls (if equipped).
Notice:Before adding any sound equipment to
your vehicle, such as an audio system, CD player,
CB radio, mobile telephone, or two-way radio, make
sure that it can be added by checking with your
dealer. Also, check federal rules covering mobile
radio and telephone units. If sound equipment can
be added, it is very important to do it properly.
Added sound equipment may interfere with
the operation of your vehicle’s engine, radio, or
other systems, and even damage them. Your
vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation
of sound equipment that has been added.
Notice:The chime signals related to safety belts,
parking brake, and other functions of your vehicle
operate through the GM radio/entertainment system.
If that equipment is replaced or additional equipment
is added to your vehicle, the chimes may not work.Make sure that replacement or additional equipment
is compatible with your vehicle before installing it.
SeeAccessories and Modifications on page 5-3.
Your vehicle has a feature called Retained Accessory
Power (RAP). With RAP, the audio system can be played
even after the ignition is turned off. SeeRetained
Accessory Power (RAP) on page 2-25for more
information.
Setting the Time
The radio may have a button marked with an H or HR to
represent hours and an M or MN to represent minutes.
Press and hold the hour button until the correct hour
appears on the display. Press and hold the minute
button until the correct minute appears on the display.
The time can be set with the ignition on or off.
To synchronize the time with an FM station broadcasting
Radio Data System (RDS) information, press and hold
the hour and minute buttons at the same time until RDS
TIME appears on the display. To accept this time, press
and hold the hour and minute buttons, at the same time,
for another two seconds. If the time is not available from
the station, NO UPDAT will appear on the display.
RDS time is broadcast once a minute. After tuning to an
RDS broadcast station, it may take a few minutes for
the time to update.
3-62

Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle..........4-2
Defensive Driving...........................................4-2
Drunken Driving.............................................4-3
Control of a Vehicle........................................4-5
Braking.........................................................4-6
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).........................4-7
Braking in Emergencies...................................4-8
Traction Control System (TCS).........................4-9
Locking Rear Axle........................................4-10
Steering......................................................4-11
Off-Road Recovery.......................................4-13
Passing.......................................................4-13
Loss of Control.............................................4-15
Off-Road Driving...........................................4-16
Assist Steps.................................................4-34
Driving at Night............................................4-38
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads..................4-39
City Driving..................................................4-41
Freeway Driving...........................................4-42
Before Leaving on a Long Trip.......................4-43Highway Hypnosis........................................4-43
Hill and Mountain Roads................................4-44
Winter Driving..............................................4-46
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud,
Ice or Snow..............................................4-50
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out.................4-50
Recovery Loops...........................................4-51
First Aid Kit and Tool Kit...............................4-52
Front Mounted Receiver.................................4-53
Power Winch Platform...................................4-54
Loading Your Vehicle....................................4-55
Towing..........................................................4-59
Towing Your Vehicle.....................................4-59
Recreational Vehicle Towing...........................4-60
Selectable Extended Rear Ride Height.............4-61
Electronically Controlled Air
Suspension System...................................4-62
Towing a Trailer...........................................4-63
Trailer Recommendations...............................4-76
Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle
4-1

You must wait for the light in the button to stop ashing
and remain illuminated before the rear axle is locked.
Notice:If you try to lock the rear axle while
your vehicle is stuck and the tires are spinning, you
could damage your vehicle’s drivetrain. The
repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Always lock the rear axle before attempting
situations and/or navigating terrain which could
possibly cause the vehicle to become stuck.
The locking rear axle will be disengaged when the
vehicle’s speed is greater than 20 mph (32 km/h), if the
vehicle’s battery is low and/or the transfer case is
shifted out of Four-Wheel-Low-Lock mode.
Notice:If you lock the rear axle while driving on
pavement, you could damage your vehicle’s
drivetrain. The repairs would not be covered by
your warranty. Do not use the locking rear axle on
pavement. If you need four-wheel drive when
traveling on pavement, use only 4HI.
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.
Steering Tips
It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on
the news happen on curves. Here is 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 is no traction, inertia
will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If
you have ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you
will 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 are in a curve, speed is the one factor you
can control.
Suppose you are 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. SeeTraction
Control System (TCS) on page 4-9.
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.
4-11

Approaching a Hill
When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it is
one of those hills that is just too steep to climb, descend,
or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. 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:
Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get
sharply steeper in places?
Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the
surface cause tire slipping?
Is there a straight path up or down the hill so you
will not have to make turning maneuvers?
Are there obstructions on the hill that can block your
path, such as boulders, trees, logs, or ruts?
What is beyond the hill? Is there a cliff, an
embankment, a drop-off, a fence? Get out and
walk the hill if you do not know. It is the smart way
to nd out.
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.
Driving Uphill
Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you
need to take some special steps:
Use transmission and transfer case low gear and
get a rm grip on the steering wheel.
Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain
your speed. Do not use more power than you
need, because you do not want your wheels to start
spinning or sliding.
Let the traction system work to control any wheel
slippage. The traction control system allows for
moderate wheel spin with some capability to dig in
and power up the hill.
4-26