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260 Vehicle Care
Caution (Continued)
.When using concentrated washer fluid,
follow the manufacturer instructions
for adding water.
.Fill the washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is very cold.
This allows for fluid expansion if
freezing occurs, which could damage
the tank if it is completely full.
Brakes
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators
that make a high-pitched warning sound
when the brake pads are worn and new
pads are needed. The sound can come and
go or can be heard all the time when the
vehicle is moving, except when applying the
brake pedal firmly.
{Warning
The brake wear warning sound means
that soon the brakes will not work well.
That could lead to a crash. When the
brake wear warning sound is heard, have
the vehicle serviced.
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake
pads could result in costly brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climates can
cause a brake squeal when the brakes are
first applied or lightly applied. This does not
mean something is wrong with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary
to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires
are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and
evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper
sequence to torque specifications. See
Capacities and Specifications 0329.
Brake pads should be replaced as
complete sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not
return to normal height, or if there is a
rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be
a sign that brake service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts with
new, approved replacement parts. If this is
not done, the brakes may not work
properly. The braking performance expected can change in many other ways if the
wrong replacement brake parts are installed
or if parts are improperly installed.
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled
with GM approved DOT 4 brake fluid as
indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Engine
Compartment Overview 0247 for the
location of the reservoir.
Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on a level
surface, the brake fluid level should be
between the minimum and maximum marks
on the brake fluid reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake
fluid level in the reservoir may go down:
.Normal brake lining wear. When new
linings are installed, the fluid level goes
back up.
Chevrolet Trailblazer Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
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Vehicle Care 309
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, or 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, or 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.
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 when 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
Clear debris from the air intakes, between
the hood and windshield, when washing the
vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter system
designed to help improve fuel economy.
Keep the shutter system clear of debris,
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310 Vehicle Care
snow and ice. If the check engine light is
activated, please check to see if the shutter
system is clear of debris, snow or ice.
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 Lubricants0325.
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 attachment, connections, 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.
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316 Service and Maintenance
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 0187.
.Are driven on reasonable road surfaces
within legal driving limits.
.Use the recommended fuel. See
Recommended Fuel 0231.
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 0245.
Maintenance Schedule
Owner Checks and Services
Check the engine oil level. See Engine Oil
0 250.
Once a Month
.Check the tire inflation pressures. See Tire
Pressure 0285.
.Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire
Inspection 0290.
.Check the windshield washer fluid level.
See Washer Fluid 0259.
Engine Oil Change
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON DIC
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 0252.
Air Conditioning Desiccant (Replace Every
Seven Years)
The air conditioning system requires
maintenance every seven years. This service
requires replacement of the desiccant to
help the longevity and efficient operation of
the air conditioning system. This service can
be complex. See your dealer.
Chevrolet Trailblazer Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
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Service and Maintenance 317
Engine Air Filter Change
When the REPLACE AT NEXT OIL CHANGE
message displays, the engine air filter
should be replaced 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.
SeeEngine Air Filter Life System 0253.
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.
See Tire Rotation 0290.
.Check engine oil level and oil
life percentage. If needed, change engine
oil and filter, and reset oil life system.
See Engine Oil 0250 and
Engine Oil Life System 0252.
.If equipped with the engine air filter life
system, check the air filter
life percentage. If necessary, replace the
engine air filter and reset the engine air
filter life system. See Engine Air Filter Life
System. If the vehicle is not equipped
with the engine air filter life system,
inspect the engine air cleaner filter. See
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0253.
.Check engine coolant level. See Cooling
System 0255.
.Check windshield washer fluid level. See
Washer Fluid 0259.
.Check tire inflation pressures. See Tire
Pressure 0285.
.Inspect tire wear. See Tire Inspection
0 290.
.Visually check for fluid leaks.
.Inspect brake system. See Exterior Care
0 307.
.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 Care0307.
.Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc.
.Visually inspect halfshafts and driveshafts
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 050.
.Visually inspect fuel system for damage
or leaks.
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Service and Maintenance 323
.Trained dealer technicians have the
diagnostic equipment to test the battery
and ensure that the connections and
cables are corrosion-free.
Belts
.Belts may need replacing if they squeak
or show signs of cracking or splitting.
.Trained dealer technicians have access to
tools and equipment to inspect the belts
and recommend adjustment or
replacement when necessary.
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to
safe driving.
.Signs of brake wear may include chirping,
grinding, or squealing noises, or difficulty
stopping.
.Trained dealer technicians have access to
tools and equipment to inspect the brakes
and recommend quality parts engineered
for the vehicle.
Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved fluids
protect the vehicle’s systems and
components. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0325 for GM approved fluids.
.Engine oil and windshield washer fluid
levels should be checked at every fuel fill.
.Instrument cluster lights may come on to
indicate that fluids may be low and need
to be filled.
Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should be
regularly inspected to ensure that there are
no cracks or leaks. With a multi-point
inspection, your dealer can inspect the hoses
and advise if replacement is needed.
Lamps
Properly working headlamps, taillamps, and
brake lamps are important to see and be
seen on the road.
.Signs that the headlamps need attention
include dimming, failure to light, cracking,
or damage. The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure that they
light when braking.
.With a multi-point inspection, your dealer
can check the lamps and note any
concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control for a
smoother ride.
.Signs of wear may include steering wheel
vibration, bounce/sway while braking,
longer stopping distance, or uneven
tire wear.
.As part of the multi-point inspection,
trained dealer technicians can visually
inspect the shocks and struts for signs of
leaking, blown seals, or damage, and can
advise when service is needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated, rotated,
and balanced. Maintaining the tires can save
money and fuel, and can reduce the risk of
tire failure.
.Signs that the tires need to be replaced
include three or more visible treadwear
indicators; cord or fabric showing through
the rubber; cracks or cuts in the tread or
sidewall; or a bulge or split in the tire.
.Trained dealer technicians can inspect and
recommend the right tires. Your dealer
can also provide tire/wheel balancing
services to ensure smooth vehicle
operation at all speeds. Your dealer sells
and services name brand tires.
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Service and Maintenance 325
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name or specification, including fluids or lubricants not listed here, can be obtained from your dealer.Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Automatic Transmission —Continuously
Variable Ratio (CVT) High Performance CVT Fluid. See your dealer.
Automatic Transmission —9 Speed DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant. See Cooling
System 0255.
Engine Oil Engine oil meeting the dexos1 specification of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic is recommended. See Engine Oil0250.
Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor, and Release Pawl Lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Hydraulic Brake System DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Key Lock Cylinders, Hood and Door Hinges Multi-Purpose Lubricant. See your dealer. Rear Axle (All-Wheel Drive) See your dealer.
Transfer Case (All-Wheel Drive) Transfer Case Fluid. See your dealer. Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.
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354 Index
DrivingAssistance Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222
Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
Characteristics and Towing Tips . . . . . . . . 234
Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Impaired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .184
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .184
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
Driving the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
E
Electric Brake Boost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Electric Parking Brake Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Electrical Equipment, Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . .241
Electrical System Engine Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . .274
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .274
Instrument Panel Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . 277
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Rear Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . .278 Emergency
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 344
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .253
Check Light (Malfunction Indicator) . . . . . 96
Compartment Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .247
Coolant Temperature Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .255
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .198
Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252
Oil Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258
Power Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Running While Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .194
Engine Air Filter Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Entry Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Equipment, Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342
Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Extended Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Extender, Seat Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Exterior Lighting Battery Saver . . . . . . . . . . 120
F
Filter, Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .253
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 296 Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .314
Fluid Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Folding Seatback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System . . . . 223
Frequency Statement Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
Front Fog Lamp Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
Front Pedestrian Braking (FPB) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Front Seats
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Fuel Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .232