Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
Driving and Operating 193
The cruise control indicator on theinstrument cluster turns green aftercruise control has been set to thedesired speed. SeeInstrumentCluster095.
Resuming a Set Speed
If the cruise control is set at adesired speed and then the brakesare applied, the cruise control isdisengaged without erasing the setspeed from memory.
Once the vehicle speed reachesabout 40 km/h (25 mph) or more,briefly press +RES. The vehiclereturns to the previous set speed.
Increasing Speed While UsingCruise Control
If the cruise control system isalready activated:
.Press and hold +RES until thedesired speed is reached, thenrelease it.
.To i n c r e a s e v e h i c l e s p e e d i nsmall increments, briefly press+RES. For each press, thevehicle goes about 1.6 km/h(1 mph) faster.
The speedometer reading can bedisplayed in either English or metricunits. SeeDriver Information Center(DIC)0108.Theincrementvalueused depends on the unitsdisplayed.
Reducing Speed While UsingCruise Control
If the cruise control system isalready activated:
.Press and hold SET–until thedesired lower speed is reached,then release it.
.To d e c r e a s e t h e v e h i c l e s p e e d i nsmall increments, briefly pressSET–.Foreachpress,thevehicle goes about 1.6 km/h(1 mph) slower.
The speedometer reading can bedisplayed in either English or metricunits. SeeDriver Information Center(DIC)0108.Theincrementvalueused depends on the unitsdisplayed.
Passing Another Vehicle WhileUsing Cruise Control
Use the accelerator pedal toincrease the vehicle speed. Whenyou take your foot off the pedal, thevehicle will slow down to theprevious set cruise speed. Whilepressing the accelerator pedal orshortly following the release tooverride cruise control, brieflypressing SET–will result in cruiseset to the current vehicle speed.
Using Cruise Control on Hills
How well cruise control works onhills depends on the vehicle speed,load, and the steepness of the hills.When going up steep hills, youmight have to step on theaccelerator pedal to maintain yourspeed.
While going downhill:
.Vehicles with a 4-speedautomatic transmission mayneed to have the brakes appliedor the transmission shifted to alower gear to help maintaindriver selected speed.
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
194 Driving and Operating
.Vehicles with a 6-speedautomatic transmission haveCruise Grade Braking to helpmaintain driver selected speed.
Cruise Grade Braking is enabledwhen the vehicle is started andcruise control is active. It is notenabled in Range Selection Mode.It assists in maintaining driverselected speed when driving ondownhill grades by using the engineand transmission to slow thevehicle.
To d i s a b l e a n d e n a b l e C r u i s e G r a d eBraking for the current ignition keycycle, press and hold the Tow/Haulbutton for three seconds. A DICmessage displays. SeeTr a n s m i s s i o n M e s s a g e s011 8.
When the brakes are applied thecruise control is disengaged.
Ending Cruise Control
There are four ways to end cruisecontrol:
.Step lightly on the brake pedal.
.Press[.
.Shift the transmission toN(Neutral).
.To t u r n o f f c r u i s e c o n t r o l ,
pressI.
Erasing Speed Memory
The cruise control set speed is
erased from memory ifIis
pressed or if the vehicle isturned off.
Driver Assistance
Systems
Rear Vision
Camera (RVC)
If equipped, the RVC system isdesigned to help the driver whenbacking up by displaying a view ofthe area behind the vehicle.
{Warning
The camera(s) do not display
children, pedestrians, bicyclists,
crossing traffic, animals, or any
other object outside of the
cameras’field of view, below the
bumper, or under the vehicle.
Shown distances may be different
from actual distances. Do not
drive or park the vehicle using
only these camera(s). Always
check behind and around the
vehicle before driving. Failure to
use proper care may result in
injury, death, or vehicle damage.
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
198 Driving and Operating
.Atrailerisattachedtothevehicle, or a bicycle or an objecthanging out of the rear doorduring the current or last drivecycle. RPA will return to normaloperation after it is determinedthe object is removed. Thiscould take a few drive cycles.
.Atowbarisattachedtothevehicle.
Other conditions may affect systemperformance, such as vibrationsfrom a jackhammer or thecompression of air brakes on a verylarge truck.
Fuel
For diesel engine vehicles, see“Fuel for Diesel Engines”in theDuramax diesel supplement.
GM recommends the use of TOPTIER Detergent Gasoline to keepthe engine cleaner and reduceengine deposits. Seewww.toptiergas.com for a list of TOPTIER Detergent Gasoline marketersand applicable countries.
If the vehicle has a yellow fuel capor a yellow sticker on the fuel door,E85 or FlexFuel can be used. SeeE85 or FlexFuel0199.
Use regular unleaded gasolinemeeting ASTM specification D4814with a posted octane rating of 87 orhigher. Do not use gasoline with aposted octane rating of less than 87,as this may cause engine knock andwill lower fuel economy.
Prohibited Fuels
Caution
Do not use fuels with any of the
following conditions; doing so
may damage the vehicle and void
its warranty:
.For vehicles which are notFlexFuel, fuel labeledgreater than 15% ethanol byvolume, such as mid-levelethanol blends (16–50%ethanol), E85, or FlexFuel.
.Fuel with any amount ofmethanol, methylal, andaniline. These fuels cancorrode metal fuel systemparts or damage plastic andrubber parts.
(Continued)
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
Driving and Operating 203
.The trailer must be equippedwith brakes adequate for theintended use. A loaded trailerweighing more than 680 kg(1,500 lb) must be equipped withits own brake system, withbrakes working on all axles.Trailer braking equipmentconforming to CanadianStandards Association (CSA)requirement CAN3-D313, or itsequivalent, is recommended.
.Do not tow a trailer during thefirst 800 km (500 mi) to preventdamage to the engine, axle,or other parts.
.Then during the first 800 km(500 mi) of trailer towing, do notdrive over 80 km/h (50 mph) anddo not make starts at full throttle.
.Vehicles can tow in D (Drive).The Tow/Haul Mode may beused if the transmission shiftstoo often. SeeTo w / H a u lMode0187.
.Turn off Park Assist whentowing.
{Warning
When towing a trailer, exhaust
gases may collect at the rear of
the vehicle and enter if the
liftgate, trunk/hatch, or rear-most
window is open.
When towing a trailer:
.Do not drive with theliftgate, trunk/hatch,or rear-most window open.
.Fully open the air outlets onor under the instrumentpanel.
.Also adjust the climatecontrol system to a settingthat brings in only outsideair. See“Climate ControlSystems”in the Index.
For more information about
carbon monoxide, seeEngine
Exhaust0182.
To w i n g a t r a i l e r r e q u i r e s a c e r t a i namount of experience. Thecombination you are driving islonger and not as responsive as the
vehicle itself. Get acquainted withthe handling and braking of the rigbefore setting out for the open road.
The structure, tires, and brakes ofthe trailer must be rated to carry theload. Inadequate trailer equipmentcan cause the combination tooperate in an unexpected or unsafemanner.
Before starting, check all trailer hitchparts and attachments, safetychains, electrical connectors, lamps,tires, and mirrors. Get familiar withthe handling and braking of the rig.If the trailer has electric brakes, startthe combination moving and thenapply the trailer brake controller byhand to be sure the brakes work.
During the trip, check occasionallyto be sure that the load is secureand the lamps and any trailerbrakes still work.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind thevehicle ahead as you would whendriving the vehicle without a trailer.This can help to avoid heavybraking and sudden turns.
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
204 Driving and Operating
Passing
More passing distance is neededwhen towing a trailer. Thecombination will not accelerate asquickly and is longer so it isnecessary to go much fartherbeyond the passed vehicle beforereturning to the lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steeringwheel with one hand. To move thetrailer to the left, move that hand tothe left. To move the trailer to theright, move your hand to the right.Always back up slowly and,if possible, have someoneguide you.
Making Turns
Caution
Making very sharp turns while
trailering could cause the trailer to
come in contact with the vehicle.
The vehicle could be damaged.
Avoid making very sharp turns
while trailering.
When turning with a trailer, makewider turns than normal. Do this sothe trailer will not strike softshoulders, curbs, road signs, trees,or other objects. Avoid jerky orsudden maneuvers. Signal well inadvance.
If the trailer turn signal bulbs burnout, the arrows on the instrumentcluster will still flash for turns. It isimportant to check occasionally tobe sure the trailer bulbs are stillworking.
Driving on Grades
Reduce speed and shift to a lowergearbeforestarting down a long orsteep downgrade. If thetransmission is not shifted down, thebrakes might get hot and no longerwork well.
Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shiftthe transmission to a lower gear ifthe transmission shifts too oftenunder heavy loads and/or hillyconditions.
The Tow/Haul Mode may be used ifthe transmission shifts too often.SeeTo w / H a u l M o d e0187.
When towing at high altitude onsteep uphill grades, consider thefollowing: Engine coolant will boil atalowertemperaturethanatnormalaltitudes. If the engine is turned offimmediately after towing at highaltitude on steep uphill grades, thevehicle may show signs similar toengine overheating. To avoid this,let the engine run while parked,preferably on level ground, with thetransmission in P (Park) for a fewminutes before turning the engineoff. If the overheat warning comeson, seeEngine Overheating0230.
Parking on Hills
{Warning
Parking the vehicle on a hill with
the trailer attached can be
dangerous. If something goes
wrong, the rig could start to move.
People can be injured, and both
the vehicle and the trailer can be
damaged. When possible, always
park the rig on a flat surface.
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
Driving and Operating 205
If parking the rig on a hill:
1. Press the brake pedal, but donot shift into P (Park) yet. Turnthe wheels into the curb iffacing downhill or into traffic iffacing uphill.
2. Have someone place chocksunder the trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are inplace, release the regularbrakes until the chocks absorbthe load.
4. Reapply the brake pedal. Thenapply the parking brake andshift into P (Park).
5. Release the brake pedal.
Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brakepedal.
2. Start the engine.
3. Shift into a gear.
4. Release the parking brake.
5. Let up on the brake pedal.
6. Drive slowly until the trailer isclear of the chocks.
7. Stop and have someone pickup and store the chocks.
Maintenance when Trailer
Towing
The vehicle needs service moreoften when pulling a trailer. SeeMaintenance Schedule0297.Things that are especially importantin trailer operation are automatictransmission fluid, engine oil, axlelubricant, belts, cooling system, andbrake system. It is a good idea toinspect these before and duringthe trip.
Check periodically to see that allhitch nuts and bolts are tight.
Trailer Towing
If the vehicle has a diesel engine,see the Duramax dieselsupplement.
{Warning
The driver can lose control when
pulling a trailer if the correct
equipment is not used or the
vehicle is not driven properly. For
example, if the trailer is too heavy
or the trailer brakes are
inadequate for the load, the
vehicle may not stop as expected.
The driver and passengers could
be seriously injured. The vehicle
may also be damaged; the
resulting repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Pull a trailer only if all the steps in
this section have been followed.
Ask your dealer for advice and
information about towing a trailer
with the vehicle.
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
210 Driving and Operating
the driver door, or seeVehicle LoadLimits0171.Makesurenottogoover the GVW limit for the vehicle,or the GAWR, including the weightof the trailer tongue. If using aweight distributing hitch, make surenot to go over the rear axle limitbefore applying the weightdistribution spring bars.
Towing Equipment
Hitches
The correct hitch equipment helpsmaintain combination control. Manytrailers can be towed with aweight-carrying hitch which simplyfeatures a coupler latched to thehitch ball, or a tow eye latched to apintle hook. Other trailers mayrequire a weight-distributing hitchthat uses spring bars to distributethe trailer tongue weight among thetwo vehicle and trailer axles. See“Weight of the Trailer Tongue”underTr a i l e r To w i n g0205for rating limitswith various hitch types.
Consider using sway controls withany trailer. Ask a traileringprofessional about sway controls orrefer to the trailer manufacturer'srecommendations and instructions.
Weight-Distributing Hitches
and Weight Carrying Hitches
Aweightdistributinghitchmaybeuseful with some trailers. Use thefollowing guidelines to determine if aweight distributing hitch shouldbe used.
1. Front of Vehicle
2. Body to Ground Distance
When using a weight-distributinghitch, the hitch must be adjusted sothe distance (2) remains the sameboth before and after coupling thetrailer to the tow vehicle.
Safety Chains
Always attach chains between thevehicle and the trailer. Cross thesafety chains under the tongue ofthe trailer to help prevent the tonguefrom contacting the road if itbecomes separated from the hitch.Always leave just enough slack sothe rig can turn. Never allow safetychains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
Aloadedtrailerthatweighsmorethan 680 kg (1,500 lb) must beequipped with its own brake system,with brakes working on all axles.Trailer braking equipmentconforming to Canadian StandardsAssociation (CSA) requirementCAN3-D313, or its equivalent, isrecommended.
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-9967827) - 2017 - crc - 5/6/16
Driving and Operating 211
State and local regulations may alsorequire the trailer to have its ownbraking system if loaded above acertain threshold.
Be sure to read and follow theinstructions for the trailer brakes sothey are installed, adjusted, andmaintained properly.
Do not tap into the vehicle'shydraulic brake system.
Trailer Wiring Harness
The optional heavy-duty trailerwiring package includes a wiringharness, with a seven-pin connectorat the rear of the vehicle and afour-wire harness assembly underthe driver side of the instrumentpanel. The four-wire harnessassembly comes without aconnector.
If the vehicle does not have a trailerhitch, the seven-wire harnessassembly with connector is tapedtogether and located in a framepocket at the driver side rear leftcorner of the frame.
If the vehicle has a trailer hitch, theseven-wire harness assembly withconnector is attached to a bracketon the hitch platform. In both cases,the seven-wire harness has aconnector and includes a 30-ampfeed wire.
Use only a round, seven-wireconnector with flat blade terminalsmeeting SAE J2863 specificationsfor proper electrical connectivity.
The seven-wire harness connectorcontains the following trailer circuits:
.Light Green: Back-up Lamps(10A fuse)**
.White: Ground
.Dark Blue: Trailer Brake Signal
.Dark Green: Right Rear Stopand Turn Signal*
.Red/Black Stripe: Battery Feed(30A Fuse)
.Brown: Trailer Park LampSupply Voltage (15A fuse)**
.Ye l l o w : L e f t R e a r S t o p a n d Tu r nSignal *
The four-wire harness (withoutconnector) contains the followingcircuits:
.Black: Ground
.Red/White: Battery Feed
.Dark Blue: Trailer Brake Signal
.Light Blue: CHMSL/StoplampSupply Voltage
*Ifthevehicleisacutawaywithtrailer provisions, a 15 amp fuse willbe shared for both left/stop trailerturn and right/stop trailer turnsignals. However, the cutawaylighting connector will have a10 amp fuse for each signal.
** If the vehicle is a cutaway withtrailer provisions, a 15 amp fuse willbe shared for trailer park lamps andcutaway rear lighting connector parklamps. Also, a 10 amp fuse will beshared for trailer back-up lamps andcutaway rear lighting connectorback-up lamps.
Tow/Haul Mode
This button is on the instrumentpanel, to the right of the steeringwheel.