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VEHICLE CARE 309
If Steam Is Coming from the
Engine Compartment
{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.
If No Steam Is Coming from the
Engine Compartment
If an engine overheat warning is
displayed but no steam can be 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.
If the overheat warning is displayed
with no sign of steam: 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 engine coolant temperature
gauge is no longer in the overheated
area or the engine coolant
temperature warning light no longer
displays, the vehicle can be driven.
Continue to drive the vehicle slowly
for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe
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 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.
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When windshield washer fluid is
needed, be sure to read the
manufacturer's instructions before
use. If operating the vehicle in an area
where the temperature may fall below
freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient
protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
The appropriate message will appear
in the Driver Information Center (DIC)
when the fluid level is low.
Open the cap with the washer symbol
on it. Add washer fluid until the tank
is full. See Engine Compartment
Overview 0296 for reservoir location.
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Caution
.Do not use washer fluid that
contains any type of water
repellent coating. This can cause
the wiper blades to chatter
or skip.
.Do not use engine coolant
(antifreeze) in the windshield
washer. It can damage the
windshield washer system and
paint.
.Do not mix water with
ready-to-use washer fluid. Water
can cause the solution to freeze
and damage the washer fluid
tank and other parts of the
washer system.
.When using concentrated washer
fluid, follow the manufacturer
instructions for adding water.
.Fill the washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is very
cold. This allows for fluid
expansion if freezing occurs,
which could damage the tank if
it is completely full.
Brakes
Disc brake linings have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched
warning sound when the brake linings
are worn and new linings are needed.
The sound can come and go or can be
heard all the time when the vehicle is
moving, except when applying the
brake pedal firmly.
{Warning
The brake wear warning sound
means that soon the brakes will not
work well. That could lead to a
crash. When the brake wear
warning sound is heard, have the
vehicle serviced.
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out
brake linings could result in costly
brake repairs.
Some driving conditions or climates
can cause a brake squeal when the
brakes are first applied, clearing up following several applications. This
does not mean something is wrong
with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are
necessary to help prevent brake
pulsation. When tires are rotated,
inspect brake linings for wear and
evenly tighten wheel nuts in the
proper sequence to torque
specifications. See
Capacities and
Specifications 0388.
Brake pads should be replaced as
complete axle sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does
not return to normal height, or if
there is a rapid increase in pedal
travel. This could be a sign that brake
service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts
with new, approved replacement parts.
If this is not done, the brakes may not
work properly. The braking
performance can change in many
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364 VEHICLE CARE
Caution
Towing the vehicle from the rear
could damage it. Also, repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Never have the vehicle
towed from the rear.
Do not tow the vehicle from the rear.
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory.
Use a de-icing agent only when
absolutely necessary, and have the
locks greased after using. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
0 383.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash
it often and out of direct sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based, acidic,
or abrasive cleaning agents as they
can damage the vehicle's paint,
metal, or plastic parts. If damage
occurs, it would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Approved
cleaning products can be obtained
from your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding
correct product usage, necessary
safety precautions, and appropriate
disposal of any vehicle care
product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure washes
closer than 30 cm (12 in) to the
surface of the vehicle. Use of power
washers exceeding 8 274 kPa
(1,200 psi) can result in damage or
removal of paint and decals.
If using an automatic car wash, follow
the car wash instructions. The
windshield wiper and rear window
wiper, if equipped, must be off. Remove any accessories that may be
damaged or interfere with the car
wash equipment.
Rinse the vehicle well, before washing
and after, to remove all cleaning
agents completely. If they are allowed
to dry on the surface, they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water
spotting.
Cleaning Underhood Components
Caution
Do not power wash any component
under the hood that has this
e
symbol.
This could cause damage that
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Solvents or aggressive cleaners may
harm underhood components. The
usages of these chemicals should be
avoided.
Recommend water only.
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.Use a nonabrasive wax on the
vehicle after washing to protect and
extend the molding finish.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses,
Emblems, Decals, and Stripes
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a
soft cloth, and a car washing soap to
clean exterior lamps, lenses, emblems,
decals, and stripes. Follow instructions
under "Washing the Vehicle"
previously in this section.
Lamp covers are made of plastic, and
some have a UV protective coating. Do
not clean or wipe them when dry.
Do not use any of the following on
lamp covers:
.Abrasive or caustic agents.
.Washer fluids and other cleaning
agents in higher concentrations
than suggested by the manufacturer.
.Solvents, alcohols, fuels, or other
harsh cleaners.
.Ice scrapers or other hard items.
.Aftermarket appearance caps or
covers while the lamps are
illuminated, due to excessive heat
generated.
Caution
Failure to clean lamps properly can
cause damage to the lamp cover
that would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Caution
Using wax on low gloss black finish
stripes can increase the gloss level
and create a non-uniform finish.
Clean low gloss stripes with soap
and water only.
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intakes,
between the hood and windshield,
when washing the vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter
system designed to help improve fuel
economy. Keep the shutter system
clear of debris, snow and ice. If the
check engine light is activated, please
check to see if the shutter system is
clear of debris, snow or ice.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield
with glass cleaner.
Clean rubber blades using a lint-free
cloth or paper towel soaked with
windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield
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374 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
keep the vehicle in good working
condition, improves fuel economy, and
reduces vehicle emissions.
Because of the way people use
vehicles, maintenance needs vary.
There may need to be more frequent
checks and services. The Additional
Required Services - Normal are for
vehicles that:
.Carry passengers and cargo within
recommended limits on the Tire
and Loading Information label. See
Vehicle Load Limits0220.
.Are driven on reasonable road
surfaces within legal driving limits.
.Use the recommended fuel. See
Recommended Fuel (3.6L V6 Engine)
0276 or
Recommended Fuel (2.0L L4 Engine)
0 276.
Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services - Normal chart. The Additional Required Services -
Severe are for vehicles that are:
.Mainly driven in heavy city traffic
in hot weather.
.Mainly driven in hilly or
mountainous terrain.
.Frequently towing a trailer.
.Used for high speed or competitive
driving.
.Used for taxi, police, or delivery
service.
Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services - Severe chart.
{Warning
Performing maintenance work can
be dangerous and can cause serious
injury. Perform maintenance work
only if the required information,
proper tools, and equipment are
available. If they are not, see your
dealer to have a trained technician
do the work. See Doing Your Own
Service Work 0294.
Maintenance Schedule
Owner Checks and Services
Check the engine oil level. See Engine
Oil 0299.
Once a Month
.Check the tire inflation pressures.
See Tire Pressure 0331.
.Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire
Inspection 0338.
.Check the windshield washer fluid
level. See Washer Fluid 0309.
Engine Oil Change
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL
SOON message displays, have the
engine oil and filter changed within
the next 1 000 km (600 mi). If driven
under the best conditions, the engine
oil life system may not indicate the
need for vehicle service for up to a
year. The engine oil and filter must be
changed at least once a year and the
oil life system must be reset. Your
trained dealer technician can perform
this work. If the engine oil life system
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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 375
is reset accidentally, service the
vehicle within 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
since the last service. Reset the oil life
system when the oil is changed. See
Engine Oil Life System0301.
Engine Air Filter Change
When the REPLACE AT NEXT OIL
CHANGE message displays, the engine
air filter should be replaced at the
next engine oil change. When the
REPLACE ENGINE AIR FILTER SOON
message displays, the engine air filter
should be replaced at the earliest
convenience. Reset the engine air
filter life system after the engine air
filter is replaced. See Engine Air Filter
Life System 0302.
Air Conditioning Desiccant
(Replace Every Seven Years)
The air conditioning system requires
maintenance every seven years. This
service requires replacement of the
desiccant to help the longevity and
efficient operation of the air
conditioning system. This service can
be complex. See your dealer.
Tire Rotation and Required
Services Every 12 000 km
(7,500 mi)
Rotate the tires, if recommended for
the vehicle, and perform the following
services. See Tire Rotation0339.
.Check engine oil level and oil
life percentage. If needed, change
engine oil and filter, and reset oil
life system. See Engine Oil0299 and
Engine Oil Life System 0301.
.Check the air filter life percentage.
If necessary, replace the engine air
filter and reset the engine air filter
life system. See Engine Air Filter Life
System 0302.
.Check engine coolant level. See
Cooling System 0304.
.Check windshield washer fluid level.
See Washer Fluid 0309.
.Check tire inflation pressures. See
Tire Pressure 0331.
.Inspect tire wear. See Tire Inspection
0 338.
.Visually check for fluid leaks.
.Inspect brake system. See Exterior
Care 0364.
.Visually inspect steering,
suspension, and chassis
components for damage, including
cracks or tears in the rubber boots,
loose or missing parts, or signs of
wear at least once a year. See
Exterior Care 0364.
.Inspect power steering for proper
electrical connections, binding,
cracks, chafing, etc.
.Visually inspect halfshafts and
driveshafts for excessive wear,
lubricant leaks, and/or damage
including: tube dents or cracks,
constant velocity joint or universal
joint looseness, cracked or missing
boots, loose or missing boot clamps,
center bearing excessive looseness,
loose or missing fasteners, and axle
seal leaks.
.Check restraint system components.
See Safety System Check 055.
.Visually inspect the fuel system,
including the evaporative (EVAP)
system, for damage or leaks.
Visually check all fuel pipes, vapor
lines, and hoses for proper
attachment, connection, routing,
and condition.
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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 381
Battery
The 12-volt battery supplies power to
start the engine and operate any
additional electrical accessories.
.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 0383 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.
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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 383
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name or specification, including fluids or lubricants not listed here, can be
obtained from your dealer.Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Automatic Transmission DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. Chassis Lubrication Chassis lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant. See Cooling System0304.
Engine Oil Engine oil meeting the dexos1 specification of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic is recommended. See Engine Oil0299.
Fuel Additive Fuel System Treatment PLUS.
Hood and Door Hinges, Key Lock Cylinder Multi-Purpose Lubricant, See your dealer.
Hydraulic Brake System DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Power Liftgate Actuator Ball Joint, Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch,
Pivots, Spring Anchor, and Release Pawl Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2,
Category LB or GC-LB.
Weatherstrip Conditioning Weatherstrip lubricant. See your dealer. Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.