
Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14583525) - 2021 - CRC - 12/9/20
136 Driving and Operating
To turn off the vehicle:1. Make sure that the vehicle is stopped.
2. Shift to P (Park).
3. Continue to hold the brake pedal, then set the parking brake. See Parking Brake
0 146.
4. Push the key all the way in toward the steering column (1), then turn the key to
LOCK/OFF (2).
5. Remove the key.
6. Release the brake pedal.
See your dealer if the key can be removed
in any other position.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) will remain
active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
0 138.
A warning chime will sound when the driver
door is opened and the key is in the
ignition.
If equipped with a locking steering column,
the steering can bind with the front wheels
turned off center, which may prevent key
rotation out of LOCK/OFF. If this happens,
move the steering wheel from right to left
while turning the key to ACC/ACCESSORY.
If this does not work, then the vehicle needs
service.{Warning
Turning off the vehicle while moving may
cause loss of power assist in the brake
and steering systems and disable the
airbags. While driving, turn off the
vehicle only in an emergency.
In an emergency, if the vehicle cannot be
pulled over and must be turned off while
driving: 1. Push the key all the way in toward the steering column, then turn the key to
ACC/ACCESSORY.
2. Brake using firm and steady pressure. Do not pump the brakes repeatedly. This
may deplete power assist, requiring
increased brake pedal force.
3. Shift the vehicle to N (Neutral). This can be done while the vehicle is moving.
Continue braking and steer the vehicle to
a safe location.
4. Come to a complete stop.
5. Shift to P (Park).
6. Continue to hold the brake pedal, then set the parking brake. See Parking Brake
0 146. 7. Push the key all the way in toward the
steering column, then turn the ignition
to LOCK/OFF.
8. Remove the key.
9. Release the brake pedal.
Caution
Use the correct key, make sure it is all
the way in —or pushed all the way in
toward the steering column when turning
off the vehicle —and turn it only with
your hand.
1 (ACC/ACCESSORY) : This position allows
features such as the infotainment system to
operate while the vehicle is off. It also
unlocks the steering column, if equipped
with a locking steering column. Use this
position if the vehicle must be pushed or
towed. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
0 138.
From ON/RUN, push the key all the way in
toward the steering column, then turn the
key to ACC/ACCESSORY.
If the key is left in ACC/ACCESSORY with the
engine off, the battery could drain and the
vehicle may not start.

Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14583525) - 2021 - CRC - 12/9/20
Driving and Operating 137
A warning chime will sound when the driver
door is opened and the key is in the
ignition.
2 (ON/RUN) :This position can be used to
operate the electrical accessories and to
display some instrument cluster warning
and indicator lights. This position can also
be used for service and diagnostics, and to
verify the proper operation of the
malfunction indicator lamp as may be
required for emission inspection purposes.
The switch stays in this position when the
engine is running. The transmission is also
unlocked in this position.
If the key is left in ON/RUN with the engine
off, the battery could drain and the vehicle
may not start.
3 (START) : This is the position that starts
the engine. When the engine starts, release
the key. The ignition returns to ON/RUN for
driving.Starting the Engine
If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the
Duramax diesel supplement.
To place the transmission in the
proper gear:
Move the shift lever to P (Park) or
N (Neutral). The engine will not start in any
other position. To restart the engine when
the vehicle is already moving, use
N (Neutral) only.
Caution
If you add electrical parts or accessories,
you could change the way the engine
operates. Any resulting damage would
not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
See Add-On Electrical Equipment 0176.
Caution
Do not try to shift to P (Park) if the
vehicle is moving. If you do, you could
damage the transmission. Shift to P (Park)
only when the vehicle is stopped.
Caution
If the steering wheel is turned until it
reaches the end of its travel, and is held
in that position while starting the vehicle,
damage may occur to the hydraulic
power steering system and there may be
loss of power steering assist.
Starting Procedure 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When
the engine starts, let go of the key. The
idle speed will go down as your engine
gets warm. Do not race the engine
immediately after starting it. Operate
the engine and transmission gently to
allow the oil to warm up and lubricate
all moving parts.
When the low fuel warning light is on
and the FUEL LEVEL LOW message is
displayed in the Driver Information
Center (DIC), the Computer-Controlled
Cranking System is disabled to prevent
possible vehicle component damage.
When this happens, hold the ignition
switch in the START position to continue
engine cranking.

Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14583525) - 2021 - CRC - 12/9/20
138 Driving and Operating
Caution
Cranking the engine for long periods of
time, by returning the ignition to the
START position immediately after
cranking has ended, can overheat and
damage the cranking motor, and drain
the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds
between each try, to let the cranking
motor cool down.
2. If the engine does not start after five to 10 seconds, especially in very cold
weather (below −18 °C or 0 °F), it could
be flooded with too much gasoline. Try
pushing the accelerator pedal all the way
to the floor and holding it there as you
hold the key in START for up to
15 seconds. Wait at least 15 seconds
between each try, to allow the cranking
motor to cool down. When the engine
starts, let go of the key and accelerator.
If the vehicle starts briefly but then
stops again, do the same thing. This
clears the extra gasoline from the
engine. Do not race the engine
immediately after starting it. Operate
the engine and transmission gently until
the oil warms up and lubricates all
moving parts.
Fast Idle System
If equipped, this feature is available only
with cruise control. The manual fast idle
switch is operated using the cruise control
buttons on the left side of the steering
wheel.
This system can be used to increase engine
idle speed whenever the following
conditions are met:
.The parking brake is set.
.The brake pedal is not pressed.
.The vehicle must not be moving and the
accelerator must not be pressed.
To control the fast idle:
.To enable the Fast Idle System, press and
release the cruise control on/off button
and ensure that the switch indicator light
is lit.
.Press and release the cruise control SET-
button. Engine speed will be held at
approximately 1200 rpm.
When the fast idle is active, the Driver
Information Center (DIC) will display FAST
IDLE ON.
One of the following actions will turn off
the fast idle:
.Pressing the brake.
.Selecting the cruise control cancel button.
.Releasing the parking brake.
.Moving the transmission shift lever out of
P (Park) or N (Neutral).
.Selecting the cruise control on/off button
when it was previously on.
.Pressing the cruise control SET- button a
second time.
.Pressing the accelerator more than
one-quarter of the way down.
.Turning the ignition off.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
When the ignition is turned from on to off,
the following features (if equipped) will
continue to function for up to 10 minutes,
or until the driver door is opened. These
features will also work when the ignition is
in RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY:
.Infotainment System
.Power Windows (during RAP this
functionality will be lost when any door
is opened)
.Sunroof (during RAP this functionality will
be lost when any door is opened)
.Auxiliary Power Outlet
.Audio System
.OnStar System

Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14583525) - 2021 - CRC - 12/9/20
Driving and Operating 141
If torque lock does occur, you might need to
have another vehicle push yours a little
uphill to take some of the pressure from the
parking pawl in the transmission. Then you
should be able to pull the shift lever out of
P (Park).
Shifting out of Park
The vehicle has an automatic transmission
shift lock control system. You have to fully
apply the brakes before you can shift from
P (Park) when the ignition is on. See
Automatic Transmission0142.
The shift lock control system is designed to:
.Prevent the ignition key from being
removed unless the shift lever is in
P (Park).
.Prevent movement of the shift lever out
of P (Park), unless the ignition is on and
the regular brake pedal is applied.
The shift lock control system is always
functional except in the case of a dead
battery or low voltage (less than 9 V)
battery.
If the vehicle has an uncharged battery or a
battery with low voltage, try charging or
jump starting the battery. See Jump Starting
- North America 0237. To shift out of P (Park):
1. Apply the brake pedal.
2. Turn the ignition on.
3. Move the shift lever to the desired position.
If you still are unable to shift out of
P (Park): 1. Ease the pressure on the shift lever.
2. While holding down the brake pedal, push the shift lever all the way into
P (Park).
3. Move the shift lever to the desired position.
If you are still having a problem shifting,
have the vehicle serviced.Parking over Things That Burn
{Warning
Things that can burn could touch hot
exhaust parts under the vehicle and
ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves,
dry grass, or other things that can burn.
Engine Exhaust
{
Warning
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide
(CO), which cannot be seen or smelled.
Exposure to CO can cause
unconsciousness and even death.
Exhaust may enter the vehicle if:
.The vehicle idles in areas with poor
ventilation (parking garages, tunnels,
deep snow that may block underbody
airflow or tail pipes).
.The exhaust smells or sounds strange
or different.
.The exhaust system leaks due to
corrosion or damage.
.The vehicle exhaust system has been
modified, damaged, or improperly
repaired.
.There are holes or openings in the
vehicle body from damage or
aftermarket modifications that are not
completely sealed. (Continued)

Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14583525) - 2021 - CRC - 12/9/20
178 Vehicle Care
General Information
For service and parts needs, visit your
dealer. You will receive genuine GM parts
and GM-trained and supported service
people.
Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:
California Proposition 65 Warning
{Warning
Most motor vehicles, including this one,
as well as many of its service parts and
fluids, contain and/or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many
parts and systems, many fluids, and
some component wear by-products
contain and/or emit these chemicals. For
more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/
passenger-vehicle.
See Battery - North America 0199 and
Jump Starting - North America 0237 and the
back cover.
California Perchlorate Materials
Requirements
Certain types of automotive applications,
such as airbag initiators, seat belt
pretensioners, and lithium batteries
contained in electronic keys, may contain
perchlorate materials. Perchlorate Material –
special handling may apply. See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/
perchlorate.
Accessories and Modifications
Adding non-dealer accessories or making
modifications to the vehicle can affect
vehicle performance and safety, including
such things as airbags, braking, stability,
ride and handling, emissions systems,
aerodynamics, durability, and electronic
systems like antilock brakes, traction control,
and stability control. These accessories or
modifications could even cause malfunction
or damage not covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Damage to suspension components caused
by modifying vehicle height outside of
factory settings will not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Damage to vehicle components resulting
from modifications or the installation or use
of non-GM certified parts, including control
module or software modifications, is not
covered under the terms of the vehicle
warranty and may affect remaining
warranty coverage for affected parts.
GM Accessories are designed to complement
and function with other systems on the
vehicle. See your dealer to accessorize the
vehicle using genuine GM Accessories
installed by a dealer technician.

Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14583525) - 2021 - CRC - 12/9/20
278 OnStar
.Receive a Diagnostic check of the vehicle's
key operating systems.
.Receive Roadside Assistance.
.Manage Wi-Fi Settings, if equipped.
Press
>to get a priority connection to an
OnStar Advisor available 24/7 to:
.Get help for an emergency.
.Be a Good Samaritan or respond to an
AMBER Alert.
.Get assistance in severe weather or other
crisis situations and find evacuation
routes.
OnStar Services
Emergency
Emergency Services require an active safety
and security plan. With Automatic Crash
Response, built-in sensors can automatically
alert a specially trained OnStar Advisor who
is immediately connected in to the vehicle
to help.
Press
>for a priority connection to an
OnStar Advisor who can contact emergency
service providers, direct them to your exact
location, and relay important information. With OnStar Crisis Assist, specially trained
Advisors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days
a week, to provide a central point of
contact, assistance, and information during a
crisis.
With Roadside Assistance, Advisors can
locate a nearby service provider to help with
a flat tire, a battery jump, or an empty
gas tank.
Security
If equipped, OnStar provides these services:
.With Stolen Vehicle Assistance, OnStar
Advisors can use GPS to pinpoint the
vehicle and help authorities quickly
recover it.
.With Remote Ignition Block, if equipped,
OnStar can block the engine from being
restarted.
.With Stolen Vehicle Slowdown,
if equipped, OnStar can work with law
enforcement to gradually slow the
vehicle down.
Theft Alarm Notification
If equipped, if the doors are locked and the
vehicle alarm sounds, a notification by text,
e-mail, or phone call will be sent. If the
vehicle is stolen, an OnStar Advisor can work
with authorities to recover the vehicle.
OnStar Additional
Information
In-Vehicle Audio Messages
Audio messages may play important
information at the following times:
.Prior to vehicle purchase. PressQto set
up an account.
.After change in ownership and at
90 days.
Transferring Service
PressQto request account transfer
eligibility information. The Advisor can
cancel or change account information.
Selling/Transferring the Vehicle
Call 1-888-4ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827)
immediately to terminate your OnStar or
connected services if the vehicle is disposed
of, sold, transferred, or if the lease ends.

Chevrolet Express Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14583525) - 2021 - CRC - 12/9/20
Index 289
General Information (cont'd)Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Glass, Enhanced Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
H
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
HeadlampsAiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . 91
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Heater Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119, 121, 122
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Hill Start Assist (HSA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 How to Wear Seat Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . 29
HVAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119, 121, 122
I
Idle System
Fast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Ignition Transmission Lock Check . . . . . . . . 201
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Indicator
Vehicle Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Infants and Young Children, Restraints . . . . 47
Information
Publication Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Instrument Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Interior Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
J
Jump Starting - North America . . . . . . . . . . . 237
K
Keyless Entry Remote (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
L
Labeling, Tire Sidewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Lamps
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Exterior Lamps Off Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Exterior Lighting Battery Saver . . . . . . . . . 95
License Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Malfunction Indicator (CheckEngine) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Taillamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Lamps, Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Lane Departure Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
LATCH System Replacing Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . 58
LATCH, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Lighter, Cigarette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Lighting Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Lights Airbag On-Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75