GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
Canada/Mexico-14632426) - 2021 - CRC - 11/5/20
Vehicle Care 397
Keyless Access, keep the RKE transmitter
outside of the vehicle and manually lock
the doors. Access the vehicle by using
the key in the door lock. SeeDoor Locks
0 21.
Disconnecting the Towed Vehicle
Before disconnecting from the tow vehicle: 1. Park on a level surface. Secure the vehicle with wheel blocks.
2. Re-connect the negative (–) battery. See Battery - North America 0343.
3. Turn on the ignition with the engine off. For vehicles with a key, turn the ignition
to ON/RUN with the engine off. If the
vehicle is equipped with Keyless Access,
with your foot off the brake pedal, press
and hold ENGINE START/STOP for
five seconds until the green light comes
on in the button. See Ignition Positions
(Keyless Access) 0230 or
Ignition Positions (Key Access) 0229.
4. Set the parking brake. See Electric
Parking Brake 0247.
5. Disconnect from the tow vehicle.
6. Shift the transmission to N (Neutral). 7. Shift the transfer case to 2m(Two-Wheel
Drive High). When the shift to 2
m
(Two-Wheel Drive High) is complete, the
light in the instrument cluster will stop
flashing and stay lit. See
Four-Wheel-Drive Light 0118.
8. Start the engine. Check that the vehicle is in 2
m(Two-Wheel Drive High) by
starting the engine and shifting the
transmission to D (Drive) and then to
R (Reverse). There should be movement
of the vehicle while shifting.
9. Shift the transmission to P (Park) and turn off the ignition.
10. Release the parking brake and remove the wheel blocks.
11. Reset any lost presets. The outside temperature display will
default to 0 °C (32 °F) but will reset with
normal usage.
Dolly Towing
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
Canada/Mexico-14632426) - 2021 - CRC - 11/5/20
402 Vehicle Care
Caution (Continued)
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,
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
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
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, cracks,
chafing, etc.Visually check constant velocity joint boots
and axle seals for leaks.
Caution
Lubrication of applicable 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 steel 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 any corrosive materials
from the underbody. Take care to
thoroughly clean any areas where mud and
other debris can collect. If equipped with
power assist steps, extend them and then
use a high pressure wash to clean all joints
and gaps.
Do not directly power wash the transfer
case and/or front/rear axle output seals.
High pressure water can overcome the seals
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
Canada/Mexico-14632426) - 2021 - CRC - 11/5/20
Service and Maintenance 419
UsageFluid/Lubricant
Key Lock Cylinders, Hood Hinges, Body Door Hinge Pins, Tailgate Hinge and Linkage, Fuel Door Hinge, Tailgate Handle Pivot Points, Hinges, Latch Bolt, and Linkage Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube. See your dealer.
Transfer Case (Four-Wheel Drive) DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.
Maintenance Replacement Parts
Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.
If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement.
Part GM Part Number ACDelco Part Number
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
IWith high capacity air cleaner 84121219 A3244C
IWithout high capacity air cleaner 84121217 A3246C
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
Canada/Mexico-14632426) - 2021 - CRC - 11/5/20
OnStar 441
.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.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
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OnStar 443
Languages
The vehicle can be programmed to respond
in multiple languages. Press
Qand ask for
an Advisor. Advisors are available in English,
Spanish, and French. Available languages
may vary by country.
Potential Issues
OnStar cannot perform Remote Door Unlock
or Stolen Vehicle Assistance after the vehicle
has been off continuously for 10 days
without an ignition cycle. If the vehicle has
not been started for 10 days, OnStar can
contact Roadside Assistance or a locksmith
to help gain access to the vehicle.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
.Obstruction of the GPS can occur in a
large city with tall buildings; in parking
garages; around airports; in tunnels and
underpasses; or in an area with very
dense trees. If GPS signals are not
available, the OnStar system should still
operate to call OnStar. However, OnStar
could have difficulty identifying the exact
location.
.In emergency situations, OnStar can use
the last stored GPS location to send to
emergency responders. A temporary loss of GPS can cause loss of
the ability to send a Turn-by-Turn
Navigation route. The Advisor may give a
verbal route or may ask for a call back after
the vehicle is driven into an open area.
Cellular and GPS Antennas
Cellular reception is required for OnStar to
send remote signals to the vehicle. Do not
place items over or near the antenna to
prevent blocking cellular and GPS signal
reception.
Unable to Connect to OnStar Message
If there is limited cellular coverage or the
cellular network has reached maximum
capacity, this message may come on. Press
Qto try the call again or try again after
driving a few miles into another
cellular area.
Vehicle and Power Issues
OnStar services require a vehicle electrical
system, wireless service, and GPS satellite
technologies to be available and operating
for features to function properly. These
systems may not operate if the battery is
discharged or disconnected.
Add-on Electrical Equipment
The OnStar system is integrated into the
electrical architecture of the vehicle. Do not
add any electrical equipment. See Add-On
Electrical Equipment 0318. Added electrical
equipment may interfere with the operation
of the OnStar system and cause it to not
operate.
Vehicle Software Updates
OnStar or GM may remotely deliver
software updates or changes to the vehicle
without further notice or consent. These
updates or changes may enhance or
maintain safety, security, or the operation
of the vehicle or the vehicle systems.
Software updates or changes may affect or
erase data or settings that are stored in the
vehicle, such as saved navigation
destinations or pre-set radio stations.
Neither OnStar nor GM is responsible for
any affected or erased data or settings.
These updates or changes may also collect
personal information. Such collection is
described in the OnStar privacy statement or
separately disclosed at the time of
installation. These updates or changes may
also cause a system to automatically
communicate with GM servers to collect
information about vehicle system status,
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
Canada/Mexico-14632426) - 2021 - CRC - 11/5/20
446 Connected Services
PressQ, then ask the Advisor to download
directions to the vehicle’s navigation system,
if equipped. After the call ends, the
navigation screen will provide prompts to
begin driving directions. Routes that are sent
to the navigation screen can only be
canceled through the navigation system.
See www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca
(Canada).
Connections
The following services help with staying
connected.
For coverage maps, see www.onstar.com
(U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada).
Ensuring Security
.Change the default passwords for the
Wi-Fi hotspot and myGMC mobile
application. Make these passwords
different from each other and use a
combination of letters and numbers to
increase the security.
.Change the default name of the SSID
(Service Set Identifier). This is your
network’s name that is visible to other
wireless devices. Choose a unique name
and avoid family names or vehicle
descriptions. Wi-Fi Hotspot (If Equipped)
The vehicle may have a built-in Wi-Fi
hotspot that provides access to the Internet
and web content at 4G LTE speed. Up to
seven mobile devices can be connected.
A data plan is required. Use the in-vehicle
controls only when it is safe to do so.
1. To retrieve Wi-Fi hotspot information, press
=to open the OnStar app on the
infotainment display, then select Wi-Fi
Hotspot. On some vehicles, touch Wi-Fi
or Wi-Fi Settings on the screen.
2. The Wi-Fi settings will display the Wi-Fi hotspot name (SSID), password, and on
some vehicles, the connection type (no
Internet connection, 3G, 4G, 4G LTE), and
signal quality (poor, good, excellent). The
LTE icon shows connection to Wi-Fi. It is
possible that the icon may not illuminate
even though the vehicle has an active
connection.
3. To change the SSID or password, press
Qor call 1-888-4ONSTAR to connect
with an Advisor. On some vehicles, the
SSID and password can be changed in
the Wi-Fi Hotspot menu. After initial set-up, your vehicle’s Wi-Fi
hotspot will connect automatically to your
mobile devices. Manage data usage by
turning Wi-Fi on or off on your mobile
device, using the myGMC mobile app, or by
contacting an OnStar Advisor. On some
vehicles, Wi-Fi can also be managed from
the Wi-Fi Hotspot menu.
MyGMC Mobile App (If Available)
Download the myGMC mobile app to
compatible Apple and Android smartphones.
GMC users can access the following services
from a smartphone:
.Remotely start/stop the vehicle,
if factory-equipped.
.Lock/unlock doors, if equipped with
automatic locks.
.Activate the horn and lamps.
.Check the vehicle’s fuel level, oil life,
or tire pressure, if factory-equipped with
the Tire Pressure Monitor System.
.Send destinations to the vehicle.
.Locate the vehicle on a map (U.S.
market only).
.Turn the vehicle's Wi-Fi hotspot on/off,
manage settings, and monitor data
consumption, if equipped.
.Locate a dealer and schedule service.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
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Connected Services 447
.Request Roadside Assistance.
.Set a parking reminder with pin drop,
take a photo, make a note, and set a
timer.
.Connect with GMC on social media.
Features are subject to change. For myGMC
mobile app information and compatibility,
see my.gmc.com.
An active OnStar or connected service plan
may be required. A compatible device,
factory-installed remote start, and power
locks are required. Data rates apply. See
www.onstar.com for details and system
limitations.
Remote Services
Contact an OnStar Advisor to unlock the
doors or sound the horn and flash the
lamps.
Marketplace
OnStar Advisors can provide offers from
restaurants and retailers on your route, help
locate hotels, or book a room. These services
vary by market.
Diagnostics
By monitoring and reporting on the vehicle's
key systems, OnStar Advanced Diagnostics,
if equipped, provides a way to keep up on
maintenance. Capabilities vary by model.
See www.onstar.com for details and system
limitations. Features are subject to change.
For updates on feature capabilities, see
my.gmc.com. Message and data rates
may apply.
GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 1500 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Cana-
da/Mexico-14632426) - 2021 - CRC - 11/5/20
Index 449
Assistance Program, Roadside . . . . . . . . . . . . .431
Assistance Systems for Driving . . . . . . . . . . 274
Assistance Systems for Parking andBacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Audio Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Auto Stop
Stop/Start System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
Automatic Dimming Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Emergency Braking (AEB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277
Headlamp System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333
Automatic Transmission
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241
Shift Lock Control Function Check . . . . . . 347
Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Auxiliary Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Avoiding Untrusted Media Devices . . . . . . . .158
Axle, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346
Axle, Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346B
Battery
Exterior Lighting Battery Saver . . . . . . . . 147
Load Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Power Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Battery - North America . . . . . . . . . . . . .343, 391
Blade Replacement, Wiper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 348
Blind Spot Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Bluetooth Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180, 181
Bluetooth Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Brake Electric Boost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
Parking, Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247
System Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Brake Pad Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .341 Antilock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 343
Pad Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213 Automatic Emergency (AEB) . . . . . . . . . . . 277
Braking System
Front Pedestrian (FPB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278
Break-In, New Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228 Bulb Replacement
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp
(CHMSL) and Cargo Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . 352
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350
Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker, and Parking Lamps . . . . . . 350
License Plate Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps, and Back-up Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 351
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 376
C
Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements . . . 322
California Proposition 65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .322, 343, 391, Back Cover
Canadian Vehicle Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Capacities and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . 424
Carbon Monoxide
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Cargo Tie-Downs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97