2010 CADILLAC ESCALADE suspension

SERVICE STABILITRAK
If your vehicle has StabiliTrak®and this messagedisplays, it means there may be a problem with theStabiliTrak system. If you see this message, try toreset the system. Stop; turn off the engine for at least15 seconds; then start the engine again. If this messagestill comes on, it means there is a problem. You shouldsee your dealer/retailer for service. The vehicle is safeto drive, however, you do not have the benefit ofStabiliTrak, so reduce your speed and drive accordingly.
SERVICE SUSPENSION SYSTEM
This message displays when the Road SensingSuspension (RSS) system is not operating properly.Have your vehicle serviced by your dealer/retailer.
SERVICE THEFT DETERRENT SYSTEM
This message displays when there is a problem with thetheft-deterrent system. The vehicle may or may notrestart so you may want to take the vehicle to yourdealer/retailer before turning off the engine. SeePASS-Key®III+ Electronic Immobilizer Operationonpage 3!24for more information.
SERVICE TIRE MONITOR SYSTEM
On vehicles with the Tire Pressure Monitor System(TPMS), this message displays if a part on the TPMS isnot working properly. The tire pressure light also flashesand then remains on during the same ignition cycle.SeeTire Pressure Lighton page 4!35. Severalconditions may cause this message to appear. SeeTirePressure Monitor Operationon page 7!68for moreinformation. If the warning comes on and stays on,there may be a problem with the TPMS. See yourdealer/retailer.
SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL
If your vehicle has StabiliTrak, this message displayswhen there is a problem with the Traction ControlSystem (TCS). When this message displays, thesystem will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your drivingaccordingly. See your dealer/retailer for service.SeeStabiliTrak®Systemo n p a g e 6!6for moreinformation.
SIDE BLIND ZONE ALERT
SYSTEM OFF
If your vehicle has the Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)system, this message displays when the SBZA systemhas been turned off. SeeSide Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)on page 3!48andDIC Operation and Displaysonpage 4!41for more information.
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Section 6 Driving Your Vehicle
Your Driving, the Road, and the Vehicle. . . . . . . . . . 6-2Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2Drunk Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4Antilock Brake System (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5Braking in Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6StabiliTrak®System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6Magnetic Ride Control™. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9Road Sensing Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9Locking Rear Axle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11Passing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Off-Road Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13
Driving at Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-24Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-25Before Leaving on a Long Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-26Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-26Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-27Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-28If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice,or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-30Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-30Recovery Hooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-31Loading the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-32
Towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-38Towing Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-38Recreational Vehicle Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-38Level Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-41Autoride®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-42Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-42Trailer Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-55
6-1

Magnetic Ride Control™
The vehicle may have the MagneRide control system.MagneRide constantly checks speed, wheel position,lift/dive and steering of the vehicle. The damping forcefor each shock absorber and adjustment level is chosenfor the best ride and handling.
MagneRide also works with the tow/haul switch that,when engaged, will provide more firmness from theshock absorbers. This added control gives better rideand handling when carrying heavy loads or towinga trailer. SeeTow/Haul Modeon page 3!36formore information.
Road Sensing Suspension
The Road Sensing Suspension (RSS) feature providessuperior vehicle ride and handling under a variety ofpassenger and loading conditions.
The system is fully automatic and uses a computercontroller to continuously monitor vehicle speed, wheelto body position, lift/dive and steering position of thevehicle. The controller then sends signals to each shockabsorber to independently adjust the damping level toprovide the optimum vehicle ride.
RSS also interacts with the tow/haul mode that, whenengaged, will provide additional control of the shockabsorbers. This additional control results in better rideand handling characteristics when the vehicle is loadedor towing a trailer. See“Tow/Haul Mode”underTowing aTrailer on page 6!42.
Locking Rear Axle
Vehicles with a locking rear axle can give more tractionon snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like astandard axle most of the time, but when traction is low,this feature will allow the rear wheel with the mosttraction to move the vehicle.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System
If the vehicle has this feature, engine power is sent toall four wheels when extra traction is needed. This islike four-wheel drive, but there is no separate lever orswitch to engage or disengage the front axle. It is fullyautomatic, and adjusts itself as needed for roadconditions.
If the vehicle is a Two-mode Hybrid, see“Four-WheelDrive”in the Two-mode Hybrid Supplement.
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Driving in Water
{WARNING:
Driving through rushing water can be dangerous.
Deep water can sweep your vehicle downstream
and you and your passengers could drown. If it is
only shallow water, it can still wash away the
ground from under your tires, and you could lose
traction and roll the vehicle over. Do not drive
through rushing water.
Heavy rain can mean flash flooding, and flood watersdemand extreme caution.
Find out how deep the water is before driving throughit. Do not try it if it is deep enough to cover the wheelhubs, axles, or exhaust pipe—you probably will not getthrough. Deep water can damage the axle and othervehicle parts.
If the water is not too deep, drive slowly through it.At faster speeds, water splashes on the ignition systemand the vehicle can stall. Stalling can also occur if youget the tailpipe under water. If the tailpipe is underwater, you will never be able to start the engine. Whengoing through water, remember that when the brakesget wet, it might take longer to stop. SeeDriving in Rainand on Wet Roads on page 6!25.
After Off-Road Driving
Remove any brush or debris that has collectedon the underbody, chassis, or under the hood.These accumulations can be a fire hazard.
After operation in mud or sand, have the brake liningscleaned and checked. These substances can causeglazing and uneven braking. Check the body structure,steering, suspension, wheels, tires, and exhaust systemfor damage and check the fuel lines and cooling systemfor any leakage.
The vehicle requires more frequent service due tooff-road use. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule foradditional information.
Driving at Night
Night driving is more dangerous than day drivingbecause some drivers are likely to be impaired—byalcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or byfatigue.
Night driving tips include:
.Drive defensively.
.Do not drink and drive.
.Reduce headlamp glare by adjusting the insiderearview mirror.
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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 center line.
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the
GAWR for either the front or rear axle.
And, if you do have a heavy load, you should
spread it out.
{WARNING:
Do not load the vehicle any heavier than
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR),
or either the maximum front or rear Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do,
parts on the vehicle can break, and it can
change the way the vehicle handles. These
could cause you to lose control and crash.
Also, overloading can shorten the life of
the vehicle.
Your warranty does not cover parts or
components that fail because of overloading.
The label 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.
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If you put things inside your vehicle—like
suitcases, tools, packages, or anything
else—they will go as fast as the vehicle goes.
If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a
crash, they will keep going.
{WARNING:
Things you put inside your vehicle can strike
and injure people in a sudden stop or turn,
or in a crash.
.Put things in the cargo area of your
vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly.
.Never stack heavier things, like
suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some
of them are above the tops of the seats.
.Do not leave an unsecured child restraint
in your vehicle.
.When you carry something inside the
vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
.Do not leave a seat folded down unless
you need to.
There is also important loading information for
off-road driving in this manual. See“Loading Your
Vehicle for Off-Road Driving”underOff-Road
Drivingon page 6!13.
Add-On Equipment
When you carry removable items, you may need
to put a limit on how many people you can carry
inside your vehicle. Be sure to weigh your vehicle
before you buy and install the new equipment.
Notice :Overloading the vehicle may cause
damage. Repairs would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Do not overload the vehicle.
Remember not to exceed the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR) of the front or rear axle.
Automatic Level Control
The automatic level control rear suspension
comes as a part of the Road Sensing Suspension.
SeeRoad Sensing Suspensionon page 6!9.
This type of level control is fully automatic and will
provide a better leveled riding position as well as
better handling under a variety of passenger and
loading conditions. An air compressor connected
to the rear shocks will raise or lower the rear of
the vehicle to maintain proper vehicle height.
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Two-wheel-drive vehicles should not be towed withthe rear wheels on the ground. Two-wheel-drivetransmissions have no provisions for internal lubricationwhile being towed.
Dolly Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground)
Use the following procedure to dinghy tow atwo-wheel-drive vehicle from the rear:
1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following thedolly manufacturer's instructions.
2. Drive the rear wheels onto the dolly.
3. Firmly set the parking brake. SeeParking Brakeon page 3!38.
4. Put the transmission in P (Park).
5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly following themanufacturer's instructions.
6. Use an adequate clamping device designed fortowing to ensure that the front wheels are lockedinto the straight position.
7. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
Level Control
Automatic Level Control
The automatic level control rear suspension is availableon light!duty vehicles and comes as a part of theAutoride®suspension, if equipped.
This type of level control is fully automatic and willprovide a better leveled riding position as well as betterhandling under a variety of passenger and loadingconditions. An air compressor connected to the rearshocks will raise or lower the rear of the vehicle tomaintain proper vehicle height. The system is activatedwhen the ignition key is turned to ON/RUN and willautomatically adjust vehicle height thereafter. Thesystem may exhaust (lower vehicle height) for up toten minutes after the ignition key has been turned off.You may hear the air compressor operating when theheight is being adjusted.
6-41

If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts,wheel nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)sensors, replace them only with new GM originalequipment parts. This way, you will be sure to havethe right wheel, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, and TPMSsensors for your vehicle.
{WARNING:
Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts,
or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous.
It could affect the braking and handling of your
vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you
lose control. You could have a collision in which
you or others could be injured. Always use the
correct wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for
replacement.
Notice:The wrong wheel can also cause problemswith bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer orodometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height,vehicle ground clearance, and tire or tire chainclearance to the body and chassis.
SeeChanging a Flat Tireon page 7!80for moreinformation.
Used Replacement Wheels
{WARNING:
Putting a used wheel on the vehicle is dangerous.
You cannot know how it has been used or how
far it has been driven. It could fail suddenly and
cause a crash. If you have to replace a wheel,
use a new GM original equipment wheel.
Tire Chains
{WARNING:
Do not use tire chains. There is not enough
clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without
the proper amount of clearance can cause
damage to the brakes, suspension, or other
vehicle parts. The area damaged by the tire
chains could cause you to lose control of the
vehicle and you or others may be injured in a
crash. Use another type of traction device only if
its manufacturer recommends it for use on the
(Continued)
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