GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/10/19
Vehicle Care 405
Caution
Use tire chains only where legal
and only when necessary. Use
chains that are the proper size for
the tires. If the vehicle has 265/
70R17 or 265/65R18 size tires,
they may be installed on the tires
of the rear axle only. If the vehicle
is a dual rear wheel model and
has LT235/80R17 tires, chains
may be installed on the tires of
the rear axle only. If the vehicle
has 255/70R17, LT245/75R17,
or LT275/70R18 size tires, they
may be installed on the tires of
the front and rear axle. If the
vehicle is a 2500 Series with
LT265/70R17 size tires, chains
may be installed on the tires of
both the front and rear axle.
Tighten them as tightly as
possible with the ends securely
fastened. Drive slowly and follow
the chain manufacturer's
instructions. If you can hear the(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
chains contacting the vehicle,
stop and retighten them. If the
contact continues, slow down
until it stops. Driving too fast or
spinning the wheels with chains
on will damage the vehicle.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blowout
while driving, especially if the tires
are maintained properly. If air goes
out of a tire, it is much more likely to
leak out slowly. But if there ever is a
blowout, here are a few tips about
what to expect and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tire
creates a drag that pulls the vehicle
toward that side. Take your foot off
the accelerator pedal and grip the
steering wheel firmly. Steer to
maintain lane position, and then
gently brake to a stop, well off the
road, if possible. A rear blowout, particularly on a
curve, acts much like a skid and
may require the same correction as
used in a skid. Stop pressing the
accelerator pedal and steer to
straighten the vehicle. It may be
very bumpy and noisy. Gently brake
to a stop, well off the road,
if possible.
{Warning
Driving on a flat tire will cause
permanent damage to the tire.
Re-inflating a tire after it has been
driven on while severely
underinflated or flat may cause a
blowout and a serious crash.
Never attempt to re-inflate a tire
that has been driven on while
severely underinflated or flat.
Have your dealer or an authorized
tire service center repair or
replace the flat tire as soon as
possible.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/10/19
428 Vehicle Care
light in the instrument cluster
will stop flashing and stay lit.
SeeFour-Wheel-Drive Light
0 142.
8. Start the engine. Check that the vehicle is in 2
m
(Two-Wheel Drive High) by
starting the engine and shifting
the transmission to D (Drive)
and then to R (Reverse). There
should be movement of the
vehicle while shifting.
9. Shift the transmission to P (Park) and turn off the
ignition.
10. Release the parking brake and remove the wheel blocks.
11. Reset any lost presets. The outside temperature
display will default to 0 °C (32 °
F) but will reset with normal
usage.
Dolly TowingCaution
Do not tow this vehicle with two
wheels on the ground, or vehicle
damage could occur. This
damage would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty.
Dolly towing this vehicle is not
allowed with either the front or the
rear tires on the ground for
two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive,
regardless of transfer case.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/10/19
434 Vehicle Care
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,
cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint
boots and axle seals for leaks.
2500/3500 Series vehicles, at least
every 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
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
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.
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.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/4/19
Service and Maintenance 447
(4)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 drive axles and
should be replaced.
(5) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System
0 346. (6)
Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
(7) Replace brake fluid every five
years. See Brake Fluid 0357.
(8) Or every 12 months, whichever
comes first. See Wiper Blade
Replacement 0364. (9)
Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. See Gas Strut(s)0365.
(10) Replace air conditioning
desiccant every seven years.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/4/19
Service and Maintenance 449
Footnotes—Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services - Severe
(1) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent
replacement may be needed if the
vehicle is driven in areas with heavy
traffic, poor air quality, areas with
high dust levels or are sensitive to
environmental allergens. Filter
replacement may also be needed if
you notice reduced airflow, windows
fogging up, or odors. Your local GM
Service location can help you
determine when it is the right time to
replace your filter.
(2) Or every four years, whichever
comes first. If driving in dusty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
oil change or more often as needed.
See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0344.
(3) Visually check all fuel and vapor
lines and hoses for proper
attachment, connection, routing, and
condition.
(4) 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 drive axles and
should be replaced.
(5)
Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System
0 346.
(6) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
(7) Replace brake fluid every five
years. See Brake Fluid 0357.
(8) Or every 12 months, whichever
comes first. See Wiper Blade
Replacement 0364.
(9) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. See Gas Strut(s)0365.
(10) Replace air conditioning
desiccant every seven years.Special Application
Services
. Vehicles with Dual Wheels:
Check dual wheel nut torque at
160, 1 600, and 10 000 km (100,
1,000, and 6,000 mi) of driving.
Repeat this service whenever a
tire/wheel is serviced or
removed.
. Severe Commercial Use
Vehicles Only: Lubricate chassis
components every oil change.
. Have underbody flushing service
performed. See “Underbody
Maintenance” inExterior Care
0 429.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/4/19
454 Service and Maintenance
UsageFluid/Lubricant
Front Axle (Four-Wheel Drive) and Rear Axle See your dealer.
Hydraulic Brake System (Vehicles with DOT 3 brake fluid) DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 19353126, in
Canada 19353127). See
Brake Fluid0357.
Hydraulic Brake System (Vehicles with DOT 4 brake fluid) DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 19299570, in
Canada 19299571). See
Brake Fluid0357.
Hydraulic Power Steering System (2500/3500 Series Only) GM Power Steering Fluid (GM Part No. 19329450, in Canada 19329451).
Key Lock Cylinders, Hood Hinges, Body Door Hinge Pins, Tailgate
Hinge and Linkage, Fuel Door Hinge, Tailgate Handle Pivot Points, Hinges, Latch Bolt, and Linkage Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).
Transfer Case (Four-Wheel Drive) DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. Weatherstrip Conditioning Weatherstrip Lubricant. See your dealer.Weatherstrip Squeaks Synthetic Grease with Teflon, Superlube (GM Part No. 12371287).
Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/-
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/4/19
488 Index
IndexA
Accessories andModifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Active Fuel Management . . . . . . . 219
Adaptive Cruise Control . . . . . . . . 245
Add-On Electrical Equipment . . . 322
Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Additional Information
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 479
Additional Maintenance and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 450
Adjustments
Lumbar, Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine . . . . . . . 344
Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . 177, 179
Air Filter Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 343
Air Filter, Passenger Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Airbag System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
How Does an Airbag
Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Passenger Sensing System . . . . 78 Airbag System (cont'd)
What Makes an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
What Will You See after an
Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
When Should an Airbag Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . . . . 74
Airbags
Adding Equipment to theVehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Passenger Status Indicator . . . 137
Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Servicing Airbag-Equipped Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Alarm Vehicle Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Alert Lane Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Side Blind Zone (SBZA) . . . . . . 274
All-Season Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379
All-Terrain Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 381
Antilock Brake System (ABS) . . . 232 Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Appearance Care Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 429
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 435
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/-
Mexico-13337776) - 2020 - CRC - 4/4/19
Index 489
Assistance Program,Roadside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 467
Assistance Systems for Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Assistance Systems for Parking and Backing . . . . . . . . . . 257
Auto Stop
Stop/Start System . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Automatic Dimming Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Emergency Braking (AEB) . . . . 270
Headlamp System . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . 343
Automatic Transmission
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Shift Lock Control FunctionCheck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 363
Axle, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 361
Axle, Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 362
B
Battery Exterior Lighting BatterySaver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Load Management . . . . . . . . . . . . 174 Battery (cont'd)
Power Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Battery - North America . . . . 358, 419
Blade Replacement, Wiper . . . . . 364
Blind Spot Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Brake Electric Boost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Parking, Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
System Warning Light . . . . . . . . 140
Brake Pad Life System . . . . . . . . . 356
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 355 Antilock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 357
Pad Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 356
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188 AutomaticEmergency (AEB) . . . . . . . . . . . 270
Braking System Front Pedestrian (FPB) . . . . . . . 272
Break-In, New Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 208
Bulb Replacement Center High-Mounted
Stoplamp (CHMSL) and
Cargo Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 369
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . 366
Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367 Bulb Replacement (cont'd)
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal, Sidemarker, and
Parking Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367
License Plate Lamps . . . . . . . . . 369
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps, and Back-up
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 399
C
Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
California Perchlorate Materials
Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
California Proposition
65 Warning . . . . . . . . . .329, 358, 419, Back Cover
Canadian Vehicle Owners . . . . . . . . 2
Capacities and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 459
Carbon Monoxide Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Cargo Tie-Downs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116