2021 GMC SAVANA air condition

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
226 Vehicle Care
{Warning
Using the wrong replacement wheels,
wheel bolts, or wheel nuts can be
dangerous. It could affect the braking and
handling of the vehicle. Tires can lose air,
and cause loss of control, causing a crash.
Always use the correct wheel, wheel
bolts, and wheel nuts for replacement.
Caution
The wrong wheel can also cause
problems with bearing life, brake cooling,
speedometer or odometer calibration,
headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle
ground clearance, and tire or tire chain
clearance to the body and chassis.
Used Replacement Wheels
{Warning
Replacing a wheel with a used one is
dangerous. How it has been used or how
far it has been driven may be unknown.
It could fail suddenly and cause a crash.
When replacing wheels, use a new GM
original equipment wheel.
Tire Chains
{Warning
Tire chains or other traction devices used
on a vehicle without the proper amount
of clearance can cause damage to the
brakes, suspension, or other vehicle parts.
Use tire chains or traction devices only if
the equipment manufacturer recommends
them for the vehicle tire size combination
and road conditions. Follow the
equipment manfacturer’s instructions. The
area damaged by the tire chains could
cause you to lose control of the vehicle
and you or others may be injured in a
crash. To help avoid damage to the
vehicle, drive slowly, readjust, or remove
the device if it is contacting the vehicle.
Do not spin the vehicle's tires.
Caution
Use tire chains only where legal and only
when necessary. Use chains that are the
proper size for the tires. Install them on
the tires of the rear axle. Do not use
chains on the tires of the front axle.
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
Tighten them as tightly as possible with
the ends securely fastened. Drive slowly
and follow the chain manufacturer's
instructions. If the chains contact 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.
For Cutaway models with LT245/75R16 or
LT225/75R16 size single or dual rear tires, use
Low Profile Z-Chain or SAE Class S cables.
For Cargo or Passenger models with LT225/
75R16 or LT245/75R16 size tires, use Low
Profile Z-Chain cables. SAE Class S chains are
not recommended.
If the vehicle has dual rear tires, do not use
individual tire chains. Use tire chains that fit
across both dual tires.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow out while
driving, especially if the tires are maintained
properly. See Tires0211. If air goes out of a
tire, it is much more likely to leak out

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
238 Vehicle Care
touch metal. Connect it to the
positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the
vehicle has one.
7. Now connect the black negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal of the good
battery. Use a remote negative (−)
terminal if the vehicle has one.
Do not let the other end touch anything
until the next step. The other end of the
negative (−) cable does not go to the
dead battery. It goes to a heavy,
unpainted metal engine part or to a
remote negative (−) terminal on the
vehicle with the dead battery. On your
van, use the unpainted radio antenna
bracket as a remote negative (−)
terminal.
8. Connect the other end of thenegative (−) cable to the negative (−)
terminal location on the vehicle with the
dead battery. On your van, use the
unpainted radio antenna bracket as a
remote negative (−) terminal.
Caution
The vehicle uses the unpainted radio
antenna bracket as a remote negative (-)
terminal. Move the antenna coaxial cable
out of the way before clamping the
negative jumper cable to the fixed
antenna bracket. Avoid touching the
negative cable clamp to the air
conditioning line. Failure to do either of
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
these could damage the vehicle. The
repairs would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
9. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while.
10. 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.

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
Vehicle Care 243
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.
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 thoroughly when cleaning the
blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup
of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause
wiper streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or
damaged. Damage can be caused by
extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat,
sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant on
weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal
better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate
weatherstrips at least once a year. Hot, dry
climates may require more frequent
application. Black marks from rubber
material on painted surfaces can be removed
by rubbing with a clean cloth. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants0255.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean
the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire dressing
products on the vehicle may damage the
paint finish and/or tires. When applying a
tire dressing, always wipe off any
overspray from all painted surfaces on
the vehicle.
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.
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

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
244 Vehicle Care
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, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint boots
and axle seals for leaks.
Lubricate the upper and lower control arm
ball joints, at least every other engine oil
change.
Lubricate the tie rod ball joints, idler arm
pivot shaft bearings, idler arm socket, and
pitman arm socket, at least every other
engine oil change.
Caution
Lubrication of applicable steering/
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 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 dirt and debris from the
vehicle's underbody. Your dealer or an
underbody car washing system can do this.
If not removed, rust and corrosion can
develop.
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.
Original manufacturer replacement parts will
provide the corrosion protection while
maintaining the vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and scratches
with touch-up materials available from your
dealer to avoid corrosion. Larger areas of
finish damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack
painted vehicle surfaces causing blotchy,
ring-shaped discolorations, and small,
irregular dark spots etched into the paint
surface. See “Finish Care” previously in this
section.

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
246 Vehicle Care
.Gently blot liquids with a paper towel.
Continue blotting until no more soil can
be removed.
.For solid soils, remove as much as
possible prior to vacuuming.
To clean: 1. Saturate a clean, lint-free colorfast cloth with water. Microfiber cloth is
recommended to prevent lint transfer to
the fabric or carpet.
2. Remove excess moisture by gently wringing until water does not drip from
the cleaning cloth.
3. Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub toward the center. Fold the
cleaning cloth to a clean area frequently
to prevent forcing the soil in to the
fabric.
4. Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no longer any color
transfer from the soil to the cleaning
cloth.
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution followed only
by plain water.
If the soil is not completely removed, it may
be necessary to use a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small hidden area for colorfastness before using a
commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter.
If ring formation occurs, clean the entire
fabric or carpet.
After cleaning, use a paper towel to blot
excess moisture.
Cleaning High Gloss Surfaces and Vehicle
Information and Radio Displays
Use a microfiber cloth on high gloss surfaces
or vehicle displays. First, use a soft bristle
brush to remove dirt that can scratch the
surface. Then gently clean by rubbing with a
microfiber cloth. Never use window cleaners
or solvents. Periodically hand wash the
microfiber cloth separately, using mild soap.
Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Rinse
thoroughly and air dry before next use.
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
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.

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
248 Service and Maintenance
Service and Maintenance
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
Special Application Services
Special Application Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Additional Maintenance and Care
Additional Maintenance and Care . . . . . . 253
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and
Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . . . 255
Maintenance Replacement Parts . . . . . . . 256
Maintenance Records
Maintenance Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 257
General Information
This maintenance section applies to vehicles
with a gasoline engine. For diesel engine
vehicles, see "Maintenance Schedule" in the
Duramax diesel supplement.
Your vehicle is an important investment.
This section describes the required
maintenance for the vehicle. Follow this
schedule to help protect against major repair
expenses resulting from neglect or
inadequate maintenance. It may also help to
maintain the value of the vehicle if it is
sold. It is the responsibility of the owner to
have all required maintenance performed.
Your dealer has trained technicians who can
perform required maintenance using genuine
replacement parts. They have up-to-date
tools and equipment for fast and accurate
diagnostics. Many dealers have extended
evening and Saturday hours, courtesy
transportation, and online scheduling to
assist with service needs.
Your dealer recognizes the importance of
providing competitively priced maintenance
and repair services. With trained technicians,
the dealer is the place for routinemaintenance such as oil changes and tire
rotations and additional maintenance items
like tires, brakes, batteries, and wiper blades.
Caution
Damage caused by improper maintenance
can lead to costly repairs and may not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Maintenance intervals, checks,
inspections, recommended fluids, and
lubricants are important to keep the
vehicle in good working condition.
Do not have chemical flushes that are not
approved by GM performed on the
vehicle. The use of flushes, solvents,
cleaners, or lubricants that are not
approved by GM could damage the
vehicle, requiring expensive repairs that
are not covered by the vehicle warranty.
The Tire Rotation and Required Services are
the responsibility of the vehicle owner. It is
recommended to have your dealer perform
these services every 12 000 km/7,500 mi.
Proper vehicle maintenance helps to keep
the vehicle in good working condition,
improves fuel economy, and reduces vehicle
emissions.

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
Service and Maintenance 249
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 0131.
.Are driven on reasonable road surfaces
within legal driving limits.
.Use the recommended fuel. See
Recommended Fuel 0158.
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 0179.
Maintenance Schedule
Owner Checks and Services
Check the engine oil level. See Engine Oil
0 184.
Once a Month
.Check the tire inflation pressures,
including the spare. See Tire Pressure
0 216.
.Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire
Inspection 0220.
.Check the windshield washer fluid level.
See Washer Fluid 0196.
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 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 0186.
Extended Idle Use
When the vehicle is used in a way that
requires extended idle time, one hour of use
shall be deemed the same as 53 km (33 mi).
See Driver Information Center (DIC) 081 for
hourmeter.
Air Conditioning Desiccant (Replace Every
Seven Years)
The air conditioning system requires
maintenance every seven years. This service
requires replacement of the desiccant to

GMC Savana Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-14583543) -
2021 - crc - 7/10/20
250 Service and Maintenance
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.
SeeTire Rotation 0220.
.Check engine oil level and oil
life percentage. If needed, change engine
oil and filter, and reset oil life system.
See Engine Oil 0184 and
Engine Oil Life System 0186.
.Check engine coolant level. See Cooling
System 0191.
.Check windshield washer fluid level. See
Washer Fluid 0196.
.Check tire inflation pressures, including
the spare. See Tire Pressure0216.
.Inspect tire wear. See Tire Inspection
0 220.
.Visually check for fluid leaks.
.Inspect engine air cleaner filter. See
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0189.
.Inspect brake system. See Exterior Care
0 241.
.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 Care0241.
.Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc.
.Visually inspect halfshafts and drive
shafts 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 035.
.Visually inspect fuel system for damage
or leaks.
.Visually inspect exhaust system and
nearby heat shields for loose or damaged
parts.
.Lubricate body components. See Exterior
Care 0241.
.Check starter switch. See Starter Switch
Check 0200.
.Check automatic transmission shift lock
control function. See Automatic
Transmission Shift Lock Control Function
Check 0201.
.Check ignition transmission lock. See
Ignition Transmission Lock Check 0201.
.Check parking brake and automatic
transmission park mechanism. See Park
Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
0 201.
.Check accelerator pedal for damage, high
effort, or binding. Replace if needed.
.Lubricate the steering linkage (greasable
joints). See Normal and Severe
Maintenance Schedules. For severe
commercial use vehicles, see Special
Application Services 0253.
.Visually inspect the spare tire to ensure
that it is tightly stowed under the vehicle.
Push, pull, and try to turn the tire. If the
spare tire moves, tighten as necessary.
See Tire Changing 0228.