Chevrolet Traverse Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
9955676) - 2017 - crc - 4/1/16
218 Driving and Operating
Drunk Driving
Death and injury associated with
drinking and driving is a global
tragedy.
{Warning
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.
Do not drink and drive or ride with
a driver who has been drinking.
Ride home in a cab; or if you are
with a group, designate a driver
who will not drink.
Control of a Vehicle
Braking, steering, and accelerating
are important factors in helping to
control a vehicle while driving.
Braking
Braking action involves perception
time and reaction time. Deciding to
push the brake pedal is perception
time. Actually doing it is
reaction time.
Average driver reaction time is
about three-quarters of a second. In
that time, a vehicle moving at
100 km/h (60 mph) travels 20 m
(66 ft), which could be a lot of
distance in an emergency.
Helpful braking tips to keep in mind
include:
. Keep enough distance between
you and the vehicle in front
of you.
. Avoid needless heavy braking.
. Keep pace with traffic.
If the engine ever stops while the
vehicle is being driven, brake
normally but do not pump the
brakes. Doing so could make the
pedal harder to push down. If the
engine stops, there will be some
power brake assist but it will be
used when the brake is applied. Once the power assist is used up, it
can take longer to stop and the
brake pedal will be harder to push.
Steering
Variable Effort Steering
Some vehicles have a steering
system that varies the amount of
effort required to steer the vehicle in
relation to the speed of the vehicle.
The amount of steering effort
required is less at slower speeds to
make the vehicle more
maneuverable and easier to park. At
faster speeds, the steering effort
increases to provide a sport-like feel
to the steering. This provides
maximum control and stability.
Hydraulic Power Steering
This vehicle has hydraulic power
steering. It may require
maintenance. See
Power Steering
Fluid 0281.
If power steering assist is lost
because the engine stops, or there
is a system malfunction, the vehicle
Chevrolet Traverse Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 265
Vehicle Care
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 266
California Proposition65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements . . . . . 266
Accessories and Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Vehicle Checks
Doing Your OwnService Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Engine Compartment Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
Engine Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . . 273
Automatic Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . 274
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . . . 279
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Power Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . 281
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282 Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
Brake Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
Battery - North America . . . . . . 284
All-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285
Starter Switch Check . . . . . . . . . 285
Automatic Transmission Shift
Lock Control Function
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Ignition Transmission Lock Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . . . 286
Wiper Blade Replacement . . . . 287Headlamp Aiming
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
License Plate Lamp . . . . . . . . . . 289
Replacement Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . 289
Electrical System
High Voltage Devices and Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Electrical System Overload . . . 290
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . 291
Engine Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 291 Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 294
Wheels and Tires
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
All-Season Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
Winter Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298
Summer Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298
Tire Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . 299
Tire Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301
Tire Terminology andDefinitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304
Tire Pressure Monitor System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Tire Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309
Tire Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310
When It Is Time for New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311
Different Size Tires and Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Uniform Tire Quality Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 315
Tire Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
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270 Vehicle Care
1. Remote Negative (−) Terminal.See Jump Starting - North
America 0326.
2. Engine Compartment Fuse
Block 0291.
3. Radiator Pressure Cap (Out of View). See Cooling
System 0275.
4. Engine Coolant Recovery Cap. See Cooling System 0275.
5. Remote Positive (+) Terminal. See Jump Starting - North
America 0326.
6. Power Steering Reservoir and Cap (Under Engine Cover).
See Power Steering
Fluid 0281.
7. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When
to Add Engine Oil” under
Engine Oil 0270.
8. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View). See “Checking Engine
Oil” under Engine Oil 0270.
9. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View). See Cooling
System 0275.
10. Engine Cover 0270. 11. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See
Brake Fluid 0283.
12. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Washer
Fluid” under Washer
Fluid 0282.
13. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0274.
Engine Cover
1. Oil Fill Cap
2. Engine Cover
To remove:
1. Remove the oil fill cap (1). 2. Raise the engine cover (2) to
release it from the retainers.
3. Lift and remove the engine cover.
4. Reverse Steps 1–3 to reinstall engine cover.
Engine Oil
To ensure proper engine
performance and long life, careful
attention must be paid to engine oil.
Following these simple, but
important steps will help protect
your investment:
.Use engine oil approved to the
proper specification and of the
proper viscosity grade. See
“Selecting the Right Engine Oil”
in this section.
. Check the engine oil level
regularly and maintain the
proper oil level. See “Checking
Engine Oil” and“When to Add
Engine Oil” in this section.
. Change the engine oil at the
appropriate time. See Engine Oil
Life System 0273.
Chevrolet Traverse Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 281
If the warning continues, pull over,
stop, and park the vehicle
right away.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the
engine for three minutes while
parked. If the warning is still
displayed, turn off the engine until it
cools down. Also, see“Overheated
Engine Protection Operating Mode”
next in this section.
Overheated Engine
Protection
Operating Mode
This emergency operating mode lets
the vehicle be driven to a safe place
in an emergency situation. If an
overheated engine condition exists,
an overheat protection mode which
alternates firing groups of cylinders
helps prevent engine damage. In
this mode, there is a significant loss
in power and engine performance.
The temperature gauge indicates an
overheat condition exists. Driving
extended distances and/or towing a
trailer in the overheat protection
mode should be avoided.
Caution
After driving in the overheated
engine protection operating
mode, the engine oil will be
severely degraded. Any repairs
performed before the engine is
cool may cause engine damage.
Allow the engine to cool before
attempting any repair. Repair the
cause of coolant loss, change the
oil, and reset the oil life system.
See Engine Oil 0270.
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid reservoir is
under the engine cover on the
passenger side of the vehicle. See
Engine Compartment Overview
0269 for reservoir location.
When to Check Power Steering
Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly
check power steering fluid unless
you suspect there is a leak in the
system or you hear an unusual
noise. A fluid loss in this system
could indicate a problem. Have the
system inspected and repaired.
How to Check Power Steering
Fluid
To check the power steering fluid:
1. Turn the key off and let the engine compartment
cool down.
2. Remove the engine cover. See Engine Cover 0270.
3. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.
4. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
5. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
6. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the
dipstick.
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Vehicle Care 337
Caution (Continued)
brushes. Damage could occur
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and
hoses for proper hook-up, binding,
leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect
disc brake pads for wear and rotors
for surface condition. Inspect drum
brake linings/shoes for wear or
cracks. Inspect all other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and
Chassis Components
Visually inspect steering,
suspension, and chassis
components for damaged, loose,
or missing parts or signs of wear at
least once a year.
Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding,
leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint
boots and axle seals for leaks.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders,
hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the
steel fuel door hinges, unless the
components are plastic. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips
with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick
or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, spring and fall,
use plain water to flush any
corrosive materials from the
underbody. Take care to thoroughly
clean any areas where mud and
other debris can collect.
Do not directly power wash the
transfer case and/or front/rear axle
output seals. High pressure water
can overcome the seals and
contaminate the fluid. Contaminated
fluid will decrease the life of the
transfer case and/or axles and
should be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and
requires sheet metal repair or
replacement, make sure the body
repair shop applies anti-corrosion
material to parts repaired or
replaced to restore corrosion
protection.
Original manufacturer replacement
parts will provide the corrosion
protection while maintaining the
vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and
scratches with touch-up materials
available from your dealer to avoid
corrosion. Larger areas of finish
damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon
and attack painted vehicle surfaces
causing blotchy, ring-shaped
discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the paint
surface. See“Finish Care”
previously in this section.
Chevrolet Traverse Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Service and Maintenance 351
.To avoid break-down or failure to
start the vehicle, maintain a
battery with full cranking power.
. Trained dealer technicians have
the diagnostic equipment to test
the battery and ensure that the
connections and cables are
corrosion-free.
Belts
. Belts may need replacing if they
squeak or show signs of
cracking or splitting.
. Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment
to inspect the belts and
recommend adjustment or
replacement when necessary.
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are
crucial to safe driving.
. Signs of brake wear may include
chirping, grinding, or squealing
noises, or difficulty stopping. .
Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment
to inspect the brakes and
recommend quality parts
engineered for the vehicle.
Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved
fluids protect the vehicle’s systems
and components. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0353 for GM approved
fluids.
. Engine oil and windshield
washer fluid levels should be
checked at every fuel fill.
. Instrument cluster lights may
come on to indicate that fluids
may be low and need to be
filled.
Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should
be regularly inspected to ensure
that there are no cracks or leaks.
With a multi-point inspection, your
dealer can inspect the hoses and
advise if replacement is needed. Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
.
Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, or damage.
The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure
that they light when braking.
. With a multi-point inspection,
your dealer can check the lamps
and note any concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control
for a smoother ride.
. Signs of wear may include
steering wheel vibration, bounce/
sway while braking, longer
stopping distance, or uneven
tire wear.
. As part of the multi-point
inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect
the shocks and struts for signs
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Service and Maintenance 353
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
UsageFluid/Lubricant
Engine Oil Engine oil meeting the dexos1™ specification of the proper SAE viscosity
grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. See Engine
Oil 0270.
Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL
®Coolant.
See Engine Coolant 0276.
Hydraulic Brake System DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 19299818, in Canada 19299819).
Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.
Hydraulic Power Steering System DEXRON
®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Automatic Transmission DEXRON
®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Carrier Assembly –Differential (Rear
Drive Module) and Transfer Case (Power Transfer Unit) SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. 88900401, in
Canada 89021678).
Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor, and Release Pawl Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (GM Part No. 89021668, in
Canada 89021674) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2,
Category LB or GC-LB.
Key Lock Cylinders, Hood and Door Hinges Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).
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386 Index
Driving (cont'd)Drunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
For Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . 30
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . 221
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . 223
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Dual Automatic Climate Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
E
Electrical Equipment,Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Electrical System Engine Compartment FuseBlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 291
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . 291
Instrument Panel Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 294
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Emergency
OnStar
®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 374
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Check and Service EngineSoon Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Engine (cont'd)
Compartment Overview . . . . . . . 269
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
Coolant Temperature
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Coolant Temperature Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
Cooling System Messages . . . 139
Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . 358
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Oil Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Oil Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Overheated Protection Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Power Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Running While Parked . . . . . . . . 234
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
Entry Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Equipment, Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . . . 371
Extender, Safety Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . 157
F
Features
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Filter, Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . 159
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316 Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 341
Fluid
Automatic Transmission . . . . . . 274
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
Power Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248
Frequency Statement Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 369
Front Seats Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Heated and Cooled . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253 Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254
Economy Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30