2021 GMC CANYON climate control

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
164 Climate Controls
Climate Controls
Climate Control Systems
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Automatic Climate Control System . . . . 166
Air Vents
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Maintenance
Passenger Compartment Air Filter . . . . . 169
Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Climate Control Systems
With this system the heating, cooling, and ventilation can be controlled.
1. Fan Control
2. A/C (Air Conditioning)
3. Air Delivery Mode Controls4. Defrost
5. TEMP (Temperature Control)
6. Rear Window Defogger (If Equipped)
7. Air Recirculation

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
Climate Controls 165
TEMP :Turn clockwise or counterclockwise
to increase or decrease the temperature
inside the vehicle.
9: Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to
increase or decrease the fan speed. There is
about a five second delay when the fan is
turned on. Turn the knob all the way
counterclockwise to turn the fan off.
Air Delivery Mode Control : Press
Y,\,
[, or-to change the direction of the
airflow. An indicator light comes on in the
selected mode button.
Y: Air is directed to the instrument panel
outlets.
\: Air is divided between the instrument
panel and floor outlets.
[: Air is directed to the floor outlets,
with some air directed to the windshield,
outboard instrument panel, and side window
outlets.
-: This mode clears the windows of fog or
moisture. Air is directed to the windshield,
with some air directed to the floor, outboard
instrument panel outlets, and side window
outlets.
0: Press to clear the windshield of fog or
frost more quickly. Air is directed to the
windshield and side window vents, with
some air directed to the outboard
instrument panel. The system automatically
forces outside air into the vehicle and the
air conditioning compressor will run, unless
the outside temperature is close to freezing.
Do not drive the vehicle until all the
windows are clear.
See Air Vents 0169.
@:Press to turn on recirculation. An
indicator light comes on. Air is recirculated
to quickly cool the inside of the vehicle.
It can also be used to help reduce outside
air and odors that enter the vehicle.
8: If equipped, press to turn on outside
air. An indicator light comes on. Outside air
is circulated throughout the vehicle.
A/C : Press to turn the air conditioning
system on or off. An indicator light comes
on to show that the air conditioning is
enabled. If the fan is turned off, the air
conditioner will not run. The A/C light will
stay on even if the outside temperatures are
below freezing.
Rear Window Defogger
K: If equipped, press to turn the rear
window defogger on or off. An indicator
light on the button comes on to show that
the rear window defogger is on.
The rear window defogger only works when
the ignition is on. The defogger also turns
off if the ignition is turned to off or ACC/
ACCESSORY.
Caution
Using a razor blade or sharp object to
clear the inside rear window can damage
the rear window defogger. Repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Do not clear the inside rear window with
sharp objects.
Heated Mirrors : If equipped with heated
outside mirrors, the mirrors heat to help
clear fog or frost from the surface of the
mirror when the rear window defog button
is pressed. See Heated Mirrors 016.

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
166 Climate Controls
Automatic Climate Control System
With this system the heating, cooling, and ventilation in the vehicle can be controlled.
1. Fan Control
2. A/C (Air Conditioning)
3. Air Delivery Mode Controls
4. Defrost5. Temperature Control
6. AUTO (Automatic Operation)
7. Rear Window Defogger
8. Air Recirculation
9. Power Button
Climate Control Display
1. Temperature Setting
2. Fan Control
3. Air Delivery Mode Control
4. Air Recirculation
5. Auto (Automatic Operation)
6. A/C (Air Conditioning)
7. On/Off (Power)
8. Driver Temperature Controls

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
Climate Controls 167
Climate Control Status Display
The climate control status display appears
briefly when the climate controls on the
center stack are adjusted.
Automatic Operation
The system automatically heats or cools the
vehicle to the desired temperature:
.Fan Speed
.Air Delivery Mode
.Air Conditioning
.Recirculation
When AUTO is lit, all functions operate
automatically. Each function can also be
manually set. Functions not manually set
will continue to be automatically controlled. To place the system in full automatic
operation:
1. Press AUTO.
2. Set the temperature. To find your comfort setting, start with
22 °C (72 °F) and allow the system time
to stabilize. Then adjust the temperature
as needed for best comfort.
To improve fuel efficiency and to cool the
vehicle faster, recirculation may be
automatically selected in warm weather.
The recirculation light will not come on
when automatically controlled. Press
@to
manually select recirculation; press it again
to select outside air.
Do not cover the solar sensor on the top of
the instrument panel near the windshield.
This sensor regulates air temperature based
on sun load. See “Sensors”later in this
section.
Manual Operation
O: Press to turn the climate control system
on or off. When the system is turned off, air
will stop flowing into the cabin. Press
O
again or adjust any of the climate controls to turn the system back on and the airflow
will continue based on the selected climate
control settings.
A:
Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to
increase or decrease the fan speed. There is
about a five second delay when the fan is
turned on. Press the knob to turn the fan
off. Press AUTO to return to automatic
operation.
Temperature Control : Turn the knob
clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or
decrease temperature setting.
Air Delivery Mode Controls : Press
Y,\,
[, or-to change the direction of the
airflow. An indicator light comes on in the
selected mode button.
Changing the mode cancels the automatic
operation and the system goes into
manual mode.
Press AUTO to return to automatic
operation.
Y: Air is directed to the instrument panel
outlets.
\: Air is divided between the instrument
panel and floor outlets.

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
168 Climate Controls
[:Air is directed to the floor outlets,
with some to the windshield, outboard
instrument panel outlets, side window
outlets, and second row floor outlets.
-: This mode clears the windows of fog or
moisture. Air is directed to the windshield,
floor outlets, outboard instrument panel
outlets, and side window outlets. The
system automatically forces outside air into
the vehicle and the air conditioning
compressor will run, unless the outside
temperature is close to or below freezing.
0: Press to clear the windshield of fog or
frost more quickly. Air is directed to the
windshield and the side window vents, with
some air directed to the outboard
instrument panel outlets. The system
automatically forces outside air into the
vehicle and the air conditioning compressor
will run, unless the outside temperature is
close to or below freezing.
Do not drive the vehicle until all windows
are clear.
See Air Vents 0169.
A/C : Press to turn the air conditioning
system on or off. An indicator light comes
on to show that the air conditioning is
enabled. The A/C light will stay on even if the outside temperatures are below freezing.
If the fan is turned off, the air conditioner
will not run. Press AUTO to return to
automatic operation.
@:
Press to turn on recirculation. An
indicator light comes on. Air is recirculated
to quickly cool the inside of the vehicle.
It can also be used to help reduce outside
air and odors that enter the vehicle. The air
conditioning compressor also comes on
when this mode is activated. Press AUTO to
return to automatic operation.
Auto Defog : The climate control system
may have a sensor to automatically detect
high humidity inside the vehicle. When high
humidity is detected, the climate control
system may adjust air delivery modes,
outside air supply, and turn on the air
conditioner. If the climate control system
does not detect possible window fogging, it
returns to normal operation. To turn Auto
Defog off or on, see “Climate and Air
Quality” underVehicle Personalization 099.
Rear Window Defogger
The rear window defogger uses a warming
grid to remove fog from the rear window.
K:Press to turn the rear window defogger
on or off. An indicator light on the button
comes on to show that the rear window
defogger is on.
The rear window defogger only works when
the ignition is on. The defogger also turns
off if the ignition is turned to off or ACC/
ACCESSORY.
Caution
Using a razor blade or sharp object to
clear the inside rear window can damage
the rear window defogger. Repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Do not clear the inside rear window with
sharp objects.
Heated Mirrors : If equipped with heated
outside mirrors, the mirrors heat to help
clear fog or frost from the surface of the
mirror when the rear window defog button
is pressed. See Heated Mirrors 016.

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
Climate Controls 169
Air Vents
Adjustable air vents are in the center and on
the side of the instrument panel. Use the
sliding knobs on the air vents to change the
direction of the airflow. Slide the knob up or
down to open or close off the airflow.
Air vents blow warm air on the side
windows in cold weather. If Floor, Defog,
or Defrost modes are selected, a small
amount of air will come from the vents
close to the window. If the airflow is shut
off using the sliding knobs, warm air will be
directed to the other instrument panel
vents. This is normal operation.
Use the sliding knobs to turn vent airflow
on or off based on the mode selected.
Operation Tips
.Clear away any ice, snow, or leaves from
air inlets at the base of the windshield
that could block the flow of air into the
vehicle.
.Clear snow off the hood to improve
visibility and help decrease moisture
drawn into the vehicle.
.Keep the path under the front seats clear
of objects to help circulate the air inside
of the vehicle more effectively.
.Use of non-GM approved hood deflectors
can adversely affect the performance of
the system. Check with your dealer
before adding equipment to the outside
of the vehicle.
Maintenance
Passenger Compartment Air Filter
The passenger compartment air filter
reduces dust, pollen, and other airborne
irritants from outside air that is pulled into
the vehicle. The filter will need to be
replaced periodically. SeeMaintenance
Schedule 0310.
Using the climate control system without an
air filter installed is not recommended.
Water or other debris could enter the
system and result in leaks or noises. Always
install a new filter when removing the old
filter.
For more information on filter replacement,
see your dealer.
Service
All vehicles have a label underhood that
identifies the refrigerant used in the vehicle.
The refrigerant system should only be
serviced by trained and certified technicians.
The air conditioning evaporator should never
be repaired or replaced by one from a
salvage vehicle. It should only be replaced
by a new evaporator to ensure proper and
safe operation.
During service, all refrigerants should be
reclaimed with proper equipment. Venting
refrigerants directly to the atmosphere is
harmful to the environment and may also
create unsafe conditions based on
inhalation, combustion, frostbite, or other
health-based concerns.
The air conditioning system requires periodic
maintenance. See Maintenance Schedule
0 310.

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
Driving and Operating 171
Driving Information
Driving for Better Fuel Economy
Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here
are some driving tips to get the best fuel
economy possible:
.Set the climate controls to the desired
temperature after the engine is started,
or turn them off when not required.
.Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.
.Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.
.Avoid idling the engine for long periods
of time.
.When road and weather conditions are
appropriate, use cruise control.
.Always follow posted speed limits or
drive more slowly when conditions
require.
.Keep vehicle tires properly inflated.
.Combine several trips into a single trip.
.Replace the vehicle's tires with the same
TPC Spec number molded into the tire's
sidewall near the size.
.Follow recommended scheduled
maintenance.
Distracted Driving
Distraction comes in many forms and can
take your focus from the task of driving.
Exercise good judgment and do not let other
activities divert your attention away from
the road. Many local governments have
enacted laws regarding driver distraction.
Become familiar with the local laws in
your area.
To avoid distracted driving, keep your eyes
on the road, keep your hands on the
steering wheel, and focus your attention on
driving.
.Do not use a phone in demanding driving
situations. Use a hands-free method to
place or receive necessary phone calls.
.Watch the road. Do not read, take notes,
or look up information on phones or
other electronic devices.
.Designate a front seat passenger to
handle potential distractions.
.Become familiar with vehicle features
before driving, such as programming
favorite radio stations and adjusting
climate control and seat settings. Program
all trip information into any navigation
device prior to driving.
.Wait until the vehicle is parked to
retrieve items that have fallen to the
floor.
.Stop or park the vehicle to tend to
children.
.Keep pets in an appropriate carrier or
restraint.
.Avoid stressful conversations while
driving, whether with a passenger or on a
cell phone.
{Warning
Taking your eyes off the road too long or
too often could cause a crash resulting in
injury or death. Focus your attention on
driving.
Refer to the infotainment section for more
information on using that system and the
navigation system, if equipped, including
pairing and using a cell phone.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving means “always expect the
unexpected.” The first step in driving
defensively is to wear the seat belt. See
Seat Belts 027.

GMC Canyon/Canyon Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
14430430) - 2021 - CRC - 9/9/20
Driving and Operating 179
For Slippery Road Driving:
.Accelerate gently. Accelerating too quickly
causes the wheels to spin and makes the
surface under the tires slick.
.Turn on Traction Control. SeeTraction
Control/Electronic Stability Control 0204.
.The Antilock Brake System (ABS) improves
vehicle stability during hard stops, but
the brakes should be applied sooner than
when on dry pavement. See Antilock
Brake System (ABS) 0202.
.Allow greater following distance and
watch for slippery spots. Icy patches can
occur on otherwise clear roads in shaded
areas. The surface of a curve or an
overpass can remain icy when the
surrounding roads are clear. Avoid sudden
steering maneuvers and braking while
on ice.
.Turn off cruise control.
Blizzard Conditions
Stop the vehicle in a safe place and signal
for help. Stay with the vehicle unless there
is help nearby. If possible, use Roadside
Assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program
0 330. To get help and keep everyone in the
vehicle safe:
.Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
.Tie a red cloth to an outside mirror.
{Warning
Snow can trap engine exhaust under the
vehicle. This may cause exhaust gases to
get inside. Engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide (CO), which cannot be
seen or smelled. It can cause
unconsciousness and even death.
If the vehicle is stuck in snow:
.Clear snow from the base of the
vehicle, especially any blocking the
exhaust pipe.
.Open a window about 5 cm (2 in) on
the vehicle side that is away from the
wind, to bring in fresh air.
.Fully open the air outlets on or under
the instrument panel.
.Adjust the climate control system to
circulate the air inside the vehicle and
set the fan speed to the highest
setting. See “Climate Control Systems.”
For more information about CO, see
Engine Exhaust 0192. To save fuel, run the engine for short
periods to warm the vehicle and then shut
the engine off and partially close the
window. Moving about to keep warm also
helps.
If it takes time for help to arrive, when
running the engine, push the accelerator
pedal slightly so the engine runs faster than
the idle speed. This keeps the battery
charged to restart the vehicle and to signal
for help with the headlamps. Do this as
little as possible, to save fuel.
If the Vehicle Is Stuck
Slowly and cautiously spin the wheels to
free the vehicle when stuck in sand, mud,
ice, or snow. See
“Rocking the Vehicle to Get
It Out” later in this section.
The Traction Control System (TCS) can often
help to free a stuck vehicle. See Traction
Control/Electronic Stability Control 0204.
If TCS cannot free the vehicle, see “Rocking
the Vehicle to Get it Out” following.