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278 Vehicle Care
Warning (Continued)
It could fail suddenly and cause a crash.
When replacing wheels, use a new GM
original equipment wheel.
Tire Chains
{Warning
Do not use tire chains. There is not
enough clearance. Tire chains used on a
vehicle without the proper amount of
clearance can cause damage to the
brakes, suspension, or other vehicle parts.
The area damaged by the tire chains
could cause loss of control and a crash.
Use another type of traction device only
if its manufacturer recommends it for the
vehicle's tire size combination and road
conditions. Follow that manufacturer's
instructions. To avoid vehicle damage,
drive slowly and readjust or remove the
traction device if it contacts the vehicle.
Do not spin the wheels. If traction
devices are used, install them on the rear
tires.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow out 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. SeeTires
0 261 for additional information. 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.
The vehicle has no spare tire, no tire
changing equipment, and no place to store
a tire.
If the vehicle has run-flat tires, there is no
need to stop on the side of the road to
change a flat tire. See Run-Flat Tires0262.{Warning
Special tools and procedures are required
to service a run-flat tire. If these special
tools and procedures are not used, injury
or vehicle damage may occur. Always be
sure the proper tools and procedures, as
described in the service manual, are used.
Jump Starting
Jump Starting - North America
For more information about the vehicle
battery, see Battery - North America 0251.
If the battery has run down, use another
vehicle and some jumper cables to start the
vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps
to do it safely.
{Warning
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Batteries also contain other chemicals
known to the State of California to cause (Continued)
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Vehicle Care 281
11. Now connect the black negative (−) cableto the negative (−) terminal (3) of the
good battery.
Do not let the other end touch anything
until the next step.
12. Connect the other end of the negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal (1)
on the dead battery.
13. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while.
14. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery. If it will not start after a
few tries, it probably needs service.
Caution
If the jumper cables are connected or
removed in the wrong order, electrical
shorting may occur and damage the
vehicle. The repairs would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty. Always connect
and remove the jumper cables in the
correct order, making sure that the cables
do not touch each other or other metal.
Jumper Cable Removal
Reverse the sequence exactly when
removing the jumper cables. After starting the disabled vehicle and
removing the jumper cables, allow it to idle
for several minutes.
The power windows may need to be
initialized. See
“Window Indexing” under
Power Windows 029.
Towing the Vehicle
Caution
Incorrectly towing a disabled vehicle may
cause damage. The damage would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not
lash or hook to suspension components.
Use the proper straps around the tires to
secure the vehicle. Do not drag a locked
wheel/tire. Use tire skates or dollies
under any locked wheel/tire while
loading the vehicle. Do not use a sling
type lift to tow the vehicle. This could
damage the vehicle.
GM recommends a flatbed tow truck to
transport a disabled vehicle. Use ramps to
help reduce approach angles, if necessary.
A towed vehicle should have its drive wheels
off the ground. If the disabled vehicle must
be towed, and is covered by GM and/or OnStar roadside benefits, contact Roadside
Assistance. Otherwise contact a professional
towing service.
If equipped, the Front Lift System can be
raised with the engine off. With the vehicle
in ACC/ACCESSORY and the doors closed,
press and hold the Front Lift System button
for 10 seconds. See
Front Lift System0213.
After the vehicle is loaded, the front can be
lowered by pressing the Front Lift System
button again with the doors closed.
Using the Tow Eye
Caution
Improper use of the tow eye can damage
the vehicle. If equipped, use the tow eye
to load a disabled vehicle onto a flatbed
tow truck from a flat road surface, or to
move the vehicle a short distance. Use
caution and low speeds. The transmission
must be in (N) Neutral when moving the
vehicle.
The vehicle may be equipped with a tow
eye that can be used to pull the vehicle
onto a flatbed car carrier from a flat road
surface. Do not use the tow eye to pull the
vehicle from snow, mud, or sand.
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284 Vehicle Care
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.
A pressure washer may be used, but care
must be utilized. The following criteria must
be followed:
.Water pressure must be kept below
14,000 KPa (2,000 PSI).
.Water temperature must be below 80 °C
(180 °F).
.Spray nozzle with a 40 degree wide angle
spray pattern or wider must be used.
.Nozzle must be kept at least 30 cm (1 ft)
away from all surfaces. Automatic Car Wash
Caution
Automatic car washes can cause damage
to the vehicle, wheels, ground effects,
and convertible top (if equipped).
Do not use automatic car washes due to
lack of clearance for the undercarriage,
wide rear tires, and wheels.
Hand Wash
Rinse the vehicle well, before washing and
after, to remove all cleaning agents
completely. If they dry on the surface
staining could occur.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or
an all-cotton towel to avoid surface
scratches and water spotting.
Finish Care
Application of aftermarket clearcoat sealant/
wax materials is not recommended.
If painted surfaces are damaged, see your
dealer to have the damage assessed and
repaired. Foreign materials such as calcium
chloride and other salts, ice melting agents,
road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings,
chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage the vehicle finish if they remain on
painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon
as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive
cleaners that are marked safe for painted
surfaces to remove foreign matter.
Occasional hand waxing or mild polishing
should be done to remove residue from the
paint finish. See your dealer for approved
cleaning products.
Do not apply waxes or polishes to uncoated
plastic, vinyl, rubber, decals, simulated
wood, flat paint, or metal mesh grilles as
damage can occur.
Caution
Machine compounding or aggressive
polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint
finish may damage it. Use only
non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are
made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish
on the vehicle.
To keep the paint finish looking new, keep
the vehicle garaged or covered whenever
possible.
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Vehicle Care 285
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Moldings
Caution
Failure to clean and protect the bright
metal moldings can result in a hazy
white finish or pitting. This damage
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
The bright metal moldings on the vehicle
are aluminum, chrome, and stainless steel.
To prevent damage always follow these
cleaning instructions:
.Be sure the molding is cool to the touch
before applying any cleaning solution.
.Use only approved cleaning solutions for
aluminum, chrome, and stainless steel.
Some cleaners are highly acidic or contain
alkaline substances and can damage the
moldings.
.Always dilute a concentrated cleaner
according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.
.Do not use cleaners that are not intended
for automotive use.
.Use a nonabrasive wax on the vehicle
after washing to protect and extend the
molding finish.
Convertible Top Care
Only lower the top when it is completely
dry and avoid leaving the top lowered for
extended periods of time to prevent
excessive interior weathering.
Carbon Fiber Care
Carbon fiber composite parts can be washed
and waxed like any other parts. Use a clear
or black pigmented wax. See Composite
Materials 0191.
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 while they are 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 - Mesh Grilles
Keep the rear and hood mesh grilles clear of
debris. The metal mesh grilles may be hot
to the touch after vehicle operation.
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Vehicle Care 287
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and
water to clean the wheels. After rinsing
thoroughly with clean water, dry with a
soft, clean towel. A wax may then be
applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome wheel trim
may be damaged if the vehicle is not
washed after driving on roads that have
been sprayed with magnesium chloride or
calcium chloride. These are used on roads
for conditions such as dust and ice.
Always wash the chrome with soap and
water after exposure.
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 silicon
carbide tire/wheel cleaning brushes.
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
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 other brake parts, including drums,
wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake,
master cylinder, brake fluid reservoir,
vacuum pipes, electric vacuum pump
including bracket and vent hose, if equipped.
If equipped with Z51, inspect brake cooling
components. SeeTrack Events and
Competitive Driving (Z51 Only) 0179.
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 hook-up,
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,
and liftgate 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.
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290 Vehicle Care
Caution
Do not attach a device with a suction cup
to the display. This may cause damage
and would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Instrument Panel, Leather, Vinyl, Other
Plastic Surfaces, Low Gloss Paint
Surfaces, and Natural Open Pore Wood
Surfaces
Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with
water to remove dust and loose dirt. For a
more thorough cleaning, use a soft
microfiber cloth dampened with a mild soap
solution.
Caution
Soaking or saturating leather, especially
perforated leather, as well as other
interior surfaces, may cause permanent
damage. Wipe excess moisture from
these surfaces after cleaning and allow
them to dry naturally. Never use heat,
steam, or spot removers. Do not use
cleaners that contain silicone or
wax-based products. Cleaners containing
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
these solvents can permanently change
the appearance and feel of leather or soft
trim, and are not recommended.
Do not use cleaners that increase gloss,
especially on the instrument panel. Reflected
glare can decrease visibility through the
windshield under certain conditions.
Caution
Use of air fresheners may cause
permanent damage to plastics and
painted surfaces. If an air freshener
comes in contact with any plastic or
painted surface in the vehicle, blot
immediately and clean with a soft cloth
dampened with a mild soap solution.
Damage caused by air fresheners would
not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Convenience Net
If equipped, wash with warm water and
mild detergent. Do not use chlorine bleach.
Rinse with cold water, and then dry
completely.
Care of Seat Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.
{Warning
Do not bleach or dye seat belt webbing.
It may severely weaken the webbing. In
a crash, they might not be able to
provide adequate protection. Clean and
rinse seat belt webbing only with mild
soap and lukewarm water. Allow the
webbing to dry.
Floor Mats
{Warning
If a floor mat is the wrong size or is not
properly installed, it can interfere with
the pedals. Interference with the pedals
can cause unintended acceleration and/or
increased stopping distance which can
cause a crash and injury. Make sure the
floor mat does not interfere with the
pedals.
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Service and Maintenance 293
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. SeeVehicle
Load Limits 0188.
.Are driven on reasonable road surfaces
within legal driving limits.
.Use the recommended fuel. See
Recommended Fuel 0225.
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.
.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 0233.
Maintenance Schedule
Owner Checks and Services
Check the engine oil level. See Engine Oil
0 238.
Once a Month
.Check the tire inflation pressures. See Tire
Pressure 0267.
.Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire
Inspection 0272.
.Check the windshield washer fluid level.
See Washer Fluid 0249.
Engine Oil Change
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
message displays, change the engine oil and
filter 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 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
System 0241.
Engine Air Filter Change
When the REPLACE AT NEXT OIL CHANGE
message displays, change the engine air
filter 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 0242.
Transmission Fluid Change
When the CHANGE TRANSMISSION FLUID
SOON message displays, change the fluid
and filter within the next 1 000 km (600 mi).
Failure to change the transmission fluid at
required intervals can lead to reduced
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296 Service and Maintenance
Footnotes—Maintenance Schedule
Additional Required Services - Normal
(1) 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
0 243.
(2) Or every two years, whichever comes
first. More frequent passenger compartment
air filter replacement may be needed if
driving in areas with heavy traffic, poor air
quality, high dust levels, or environmental
allergens. Passenger compartment air filter
replacement may also be needed if there is
reduced airflow, window fogging, or odors.
Your GM dealer can help determine when to
replace the filter.
(3) Visually check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper attachment,
connection, routing, and condition.
(4) Or every three years, whichever comes
first. If the vehicle mileage is near the
canister filter replacement interval, replace
the fluid and filter. More frequent fluid and
filter replacement may be needed if the
vehicle is competitively or aggressively
driven. This service can be complex. See
your dealer. (5)
Check the transmission fluid
life percentage. If the percentage is less
than 10%, replace the fluid and filter. The
initial transmission canister filter change
must be performed at 12 000 km (7,500 mi),
and every 36 000 km (22,500 mi) thereafter.
This service can be complex. See your
dealer.
(6) Or every five years, whichever comes
first. See Cooling System 0245.
(7) Or every 10 years, whichever comes first.
Inspect for fraying, excessive cracking,
or damage; replace, if needed.
(8) Replace brake fluid every five years. See
Brake Fluid 0250.
(9) Replace front lift system fluid every five
years. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0301
(10) Or every 12 months, whichever comes
first. See Wiper Blade Replacement 0252.
(11) Or every 10 years, whichever comes
first. See Gas Strut(s) 0253.
(12) Replace air conditioning desiccant every
seven years.