Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
334 Vehicle Care
include engine revolutions, engine
temperature, and miles driven.
Based on driving conditions, the
mileage at which an oil change is
indicated can vary considerably. For
the oil life system to work properly,
the system must be reset every time
the oil is changed.
On some vehicles, when the system
has calculated that oil life has been
diminished, a CHANGE ENGINE
OIL SOON message comes on to
indicate that an oil change is
necessary. Change the oil as soon
as possible within the next 1 000 km
(600 mi). It is possible that, if driving
under the best conditions, the oil life
system might indicate that an oil
change is not necessary for up to a
year. The engine oil and filter must
be changed at least once a year
and, at this time, the system must
be reset. For vehicles without the
CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
message, an oil change is needed
when the OIL LIFE REMAINING
percentage is near 0%. Your dealer
has trained service people who will
perform this work and reset the
system. It is also important to checkthe oil regularly over the course of
an oil drain interval and keep it at
the proper level.
If the system is ever reset
accidentally, the oil must be
changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
since the last oil change.
Remember to reset the oil life
system whenever the oil is changed.
How to Reset the Engine Oil
Life System
Reset the system whenever the
engine oil is changed so that the
system can calculate the next
engine oil change. Always reset the
engine oil life to 100% after every oil
change. It will not reset itself. To
reset the engine oil life system:
1. Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC. If the
vehicle does not have DIC
buttons, the vehicle must be in
P (Park) to access this display.
See Driver Information Center
(DIC) (Base Level) 0154 or
Driver Information Center (DIC)
(Uplevel) 0156. 2. Press and hold
V, or the trip
odometer reset stem if the
vehicle does not have DIC
buttons, for several seconds.
The oil life will change
to 100%.
The oil life system can also be reset
as follows: 1. Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC.
See Driver Information Center
(DIC) (Base Level) 0154 or
Driver Information Center (DIC)
(Uplevel) 0156.
2. Fully press the accelerator pedal slowly three times within
five seconds.
3. Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC. If the
display shows 100%, the
system is reset.
If the vehicle has a CHANGE
ENGINE OIL SOON message and it
comes back on when the vehicle is
started and/or the OIL LIFE
REMAINING is near 0%, the engine
oil life system has not been reset.
Repeat the procedure.
Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
340 Vehicle Care
6.0L V8 Engine
1. Coolant Surge Tank
2. Coolant Surge TankPressure Cap
3. Engine Belt-Driven Cooling Fan (Out of View)
{Warning
An underhood electric fan can
start up even when the engine is
not running and can cause injury.
Keep hands, clothing, and tools
away from any underhood
electric fan.
{Warning
Do not touch heater or radiator
hoses, or other engine parts.
They can be very hot and can
burn you. Do not run the engine if
there is a leak; all coolant could
leak out. That could cause an
engine fire and can burn you. Fix
any leak before driving the
vehicle.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in the vehicle is
filled with DEX-COOL engine
coolant. This coolant is designed to
remain in the vehicle for 5 years or
240 000 km (150,000 mi), whichever
occurs first.
The following explains the cooling
system and how to check and add
coolant when it is low. If there is a
problem with engine overheating,
see Engine Overheating 0343.
What to Use
{Warning
Plain water, or other liquids such
as alcohol, can boil before the
proper coolant mixture will. With
plain water or the wrong mixture,
the engine could get too hot but
there would not be an overheat
warning. The engine could catch
fire and you or others could be
burned.
Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,
drinkable water and DEX-COOL
coolant. This mixture:
. Gives freezing protection down
to−37 °C (−34 °F), outside
temperature.
. Gives boiling protection up to
129 °C (265 °F), engine
temperature.
. Protects against rust and
corrosion.
. Will not damage aluminum parts.
Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
Vehicle Care 341
.Helps keep the proper engine
temperature.
Caution
Do not use anything other than a
mix of DEX-COOL coolant that
meets GM Standard
GMW3420 and clean, drinkable
water. Anything else can cause
damage to the engine cooling
system and the vehicle, which
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Never dispose of engine coolant by
putting it in the trash, or by pouring
it on the ground, or into sewers,
streams, or bodies of water. Have
the coolant changed by an
authorized service center, familiar
with legal requirements regarding
used coolant disposal. This will help
protect the environment and your
health.
Checking Coolant
The coolant surge tank is located in
the engine compartment on the
passenger side of the vehicle. See
Engine Compartment Overview
0 328.
The vehicle must be on a level
surface when checking the coolant
level.
5.3L V8 Shown, 6.0L V8 Similar
Check to see if coolant is visible in
the coolant surge tank. If the coolant
inside the coolant surge tank is
boiling, wait until it cools down. The
coolant level should be at or above the full cold mark. If it is not, there
may be a leak in the cooling
system.
If coolant is visible but the coolant
level is not at or above the full cold
mark, see
“How to Add Coolant to
the Coolant Surge Tank for Gasoline
Engines,” following.
How to Add Coolant to the
Coolant Surge Tank for
Gasoline Engines
If the vehicle has a diesel engine,
see“Cooling System” in the
Duramax diesel supplement for the
proper coolant fill procedure.
{Warning
Spilling coolant on hot engine
parts can burn you. Coolant
contains ethylene glycol and it will
burn if the engine parts are hot
enough.
Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
342 Vehicle Care
{Warning
Plain water, or other liquids such
as alcohol, can boil before the
proper coolant mixture will. With
plain water or the wrong mixture,
the engine could get too hot but
there would not be an overheat
warning. The engine could catch
fire and you or others could be
burned.
{Warning
Steam and scalding liquids from a
hot cooling system are under
pressure. Turning the pressure
cap, even a little, can cause them
to come out at high speed and
you could be burned. Never turn
the cap when the cooling system,
including the pressure cap, is hot.
Wait for the cooling system and
pressure cap to cool.
Caution
Failure to follow the specific
coolant fill procedure could cause
the engine to overheat and could
cause system damage. If coolant
is not visible in the surge tank,
contact your dealer.
If no coolant is visible in the surge
tank, add coolant.
Light-Duty
Coolant Surge
Tank
Pressure CapHeavy-Duty
Coolant Surge
Tank
Pressure Cap
1. Remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling
system, including the coolant
surge tank pressure cap and
upper radiator hose, is no
longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly
counterclockwise about one full
turn. If a hiss is heard, wait for
that to stop. A hiss means
there is still some pressure left.
2. Keep turning the pressure cap slowly, and remove it.
3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mixture to the full
cold mark.
4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the
engine and let it run until the
engine coolant temperature
gauge indicates approximately
90 °C (195 °F).
By this time, the coolant level
inside the coolant surge tank
may be lower. If the level is
lower, add more of the proper
mixture to the coolant surge
tank until the level reaches the
full cold mark.
5. Replace the pressure cap tightly.
Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
344 Vehicle Care
If there is an engine overheat
warning, but no steam is seen or
heard, the problem may not be too
serious. Sometimes the engine can
get a little too hot when the vehicle:
.Climbs a long hill on a hot day.
. Stops after high-speed driving.
. Idles for long periods in traffic.
. Tows a trailer; see Trailer Towing
0 298.
If the ENGINE OVERHEATED
STOP ENGINE or the ENGINE
OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE
message appears with no sign of
steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the
highest fan speed. Open the
windows as necessary.
3. When it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or
N (Neutral) and let the
engine idle. If the temperature overheat gauge is
no longer in the overheat zone or an
overheat warning no longer
displays, the vehicle can be driven.
Continue to drive the vehicle slowly
for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe
vehicle distance from the vehicle in
front. If the warning does not come
back on, continue to drive normally
and have the cooling system
checked for proper fill and function.
If the warning continues, pull over,
stop, and park the vehicle
right away.
If there is still no sign of steam and
the vehicle is equipped with an
engine driven cooling fan, push
down the accelerator until the
engine speed is about twice as fast
as normal idle speed for at least
five minutes while the vehicle is
parked. If the warning is still there,
turn off the engine and get everyone
out of the vehicle until it cools down.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the
engine for five minutes while
parked. If the warning is still
displayed, turn off the engine until it
cools down.Overheated Engine
Protection
Operating Mode
If an overheated engine condition
exists and the ENGINE POWER IS
REDUCED message displays, an
overheat protection mode which
alternates firing groups of cylinders
helps to prevent engine damage. In
this mode, a loss in power and
engine performance will be noticed.
This operating mode allows the
vehicle to be driven to a safe place
in an emergency. 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
(Continued)
Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
Vehicle Care 345
Caution (Continued)
attempting any repair. Repair the
cause of coolant loss, change the
oil, and reset the oil life system.
SeeEngine Oil 0331.
Engine Fan
If the vehicle has a clutched engine
cooling fan, when the clutch is
engaged, the fan spins faster to
provide more air to cool the engine.
In most everyday driving conditions,
the fan is spinning slower and the
clutch is not fully engaged. This
improves fuel economy and reduces
fan noise. Under heavy vehicle
loading, trailer towing, and/or high
outside temperatures, the fan speed
increases as the clutch more fully
engages, so an increase in fan
noise may be heard. This is normal
and should not be mistaken as the
transmission slipping or making
extra shifts. It is merely the cooling
system functioning properly. The fan will slow down when additional
cooling is not required and the
clutch disengages.
This fan noise may also be heard
when starting the engine. It will go
away as the fan clutch partially
disengages.
If the vehicle has electric cooling
fan(s), the fans may be heard
spinning at low speed during most
everyday driving. The fans may turn
off if no cooling is required. Under
heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing,
high outside temperatures,
or operation of the air conditioning
system, the fans may change to
high speed and an increase in fan
noise may be heard. This is normal
and indicates that the cooling
system is functioning properly. The
fans will change to low speed when
additional cooling is no longer
required.
The electric engine cooling fans
may run after the engine has been
turned. off. This is normal and no
service is required.
Power Steering Fluid
(1500 Series)
The vehicle has electric power
steering and does not use power
steering fluid.
Power Steering Fluid
(2500/3500 Series)
See
Engine Compartment Overview
0 328 for reservoir location.
When to Check Power Steering
Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly
check power steering fluid unless
there is a leak suspected in the
system or an unusual noise is
heard. A fluid loss in this system
could indicate a problem. Have the
system inspected and repaired.
Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
422 Vehicle Care
Caution
To avoid surface damage on
wheels and wheel trim, do not
use strong soaps, chemicals,
abrasive polishes, cleaners,
or brushes. Use only GM
approved cleaners. Do not drive
the vehicle through an automatic
car wash that uses silicone
carbide tire/wheel cleaning
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.
1500 Series vehicles, at least every
other oil change lubricate the outer
tie rod ends.
2500/3500 Series vehicles, at least
every other engine oil change
lubricate the upper and lower
control arm ball joints. Control arm
ball joints on 1500 series vehicles
are maintenance-free.
2500/3500 Series vehicles equipped
with steering linkage, at least every
other engine oil change lubricate the
tie rod ball joints, idler arm pivot
shaft bearings, idler arm socket, and
pitman arm socket.
Caution
Lubrication of applicable steering/
suspension points should not be
done unless the temperature is
−12 °C (10 °F) or higher,
or damage could result.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders,
hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the
steel fuel door hinge 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. If equipped
with power assist steps, extend
them and then use a high pressure
wash to clean all joints and gaps.
Chevrolet Silverado LD 1500 and Silverado 2500/3500 Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-12162993) - 2019 - crc - 4/4/18
478 Index
Customer InformationPublications Ordering
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 458
Customer Satisfaction Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 449
D
Damage Repair, Collision . . . . . . . 456
Danger, Warning, and Caution . . . . 3
Data CollectionInfotainment System . . . . . . . . . . 462
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 462
Data Recorders, Event . . . . . . . . . 461
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
Diagnostics Connected Services . . . . . . . . . . 474
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Dome Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Power Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Drive Belt Routing, Engine . . . . . . 448
Driver Assistance Systems . . . . . 279
Driver Information Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154, 156 Driving
Assistance Systems . . . . . . . . . . 282
Characteristics and
Towing Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 294
Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
Drunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
For Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . 32
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . 235
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . 237
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
Off-Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . 229
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
Dual Automatic Climate
Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
E
E85 or FlexFuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 291
Electrical Equipment,Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318
Electrical System Engine Compartment FuseBlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 362
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . 362
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 366, 367 Electrical System (cont'd)
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 361
Emergency OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 464
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 338
Check Light (MalfunctionIndicator) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Compartment Overview . . . . . . . 328
Coolant Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
Coolant Temperature
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . 448
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255
Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 345
Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333
Oil Pressure Gauge . . . . . . . . . . 140
Overheated Protection Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 344
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 343
Power Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Running While Parked . . . . . . . . 255
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
Entry Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Equipment, Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . . . 461
Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179