GMC Yukon/Yukon XL/Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
Canada/Mexico-15555988) - 2022 - CRC - 12/3/21
222 Driving and Operating
stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow. SeeIf the
Vehicle Is Stuck 0200 and“Turning the
Systems Off and On” later in this section.
When the transfer case (if equipped) is in
Four-Wheel Drive Low, the TCS and
StabiliTrak/ESC are automatically disabled,
g
comes on, and the appropriate message will
appear on the Driver Information
Center (DIC).
The indicator light for both systems is in the
instrument cluster. This light will:
.Flash when TCS is limiting wheel spin.
.Flash when StabiliTrak/ESC is activated.
.Turn on and stay on when either system
is not working.
See Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak
Light 0119.
If either system fails to turn on or to
activate, a message displays in the DIC, and
dcomes on and stays on to indicate that
the system is inactive and is not assisting the driver in maintaining control. Without
the assistance of properly functioning
StabiliTrak/ESC the possibility of rollover is
increased. Adjust driving accordingly.
If
dcomes on and stays on:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Turn the engine off and wait 15 seconds.
3. Start the engine.
Drive the vehicle. If
dcomes on and stays
on, see your dealer.
Turning the Systems Off and On
The button for TCS and StabiliTrak/ESC is on
the instrument panel to the left of the
steering wheel.
Caution
Do not repeatedly brake or accelerate
heavily when TCS is off. The vehicle
driveline could be damaged.
To turn off only TCS, press and release
g.
The traction off light
idisplays in the
instrument cluster. The appropriate message
will display in the DIC. To turn TCS on again,
press and release
g. The traction off light
idisplayed in the instrument cluster will
turn off.
If TCS is limiting wheel spin when
gis
pressed, the system will not turn off until
the wheels stop spinning.
To turn off both TCS and StabiliTrak/ESC,
press and hold
guntil the traction off light
iand the StabiliTrak OFF lightgcome on
and stay on in the instrument cluster, then
release. The appropriate message will
display in the DIC.
To turn TCS and StabiliTrak/ESC on again,
press and release
g. The traction off light
iand the StabiliTrak OFF lightgin the
instrument cluster turn off.
GMC Yukon/Yukon XL/Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
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Driving and Operating 223
For vehicles without four corner air
suspension StabiliTrak/ESC will automatically
turn on if the vehicle exceeds 56 km/h
(35 mph). Traction control will remain off.
For vehicles with four corner air suspension
StabiliTrak/ESC will automatically turn on if
the vehicle exceeds 32 km/h (20 mph).
The vehicle has a Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
feature and a Hill Start Assist (HSA) feature.
SeeTrailer Sway Control (TSC) 0283 or
Hill Start Assist (HSA) 0221.
Adding accessories can affect the vehicle
performance. See Accessories and
Modifications 0296.
Hill Descent Control (HDC)
If equipped, Hill Descent Control (HDC) sets
and maintains vehicle speed while driving
down steep grades in a forward or reverse
gear. The HDC switch is on the instrument
panel to the left of the steering wheel.
Press5to enable or disable HDC. Vehicle
speed must be below 60 km/h (37 mph).
When enabled, the HDC light displays on
the instrument cluster.
A blinking HDC light indicates the system is
actively applying the brakes to maintain
vehicle speed. HDC can maintain vehicle
speeds between 1 and 30 km/h (1 and
19 mph) on grades greater than or equal
to 5%. If HDC is to be used for more than
three minutes or on grades steeper than
25%, the transfer case should be put into
Four-Wheel Drive Low (4
n) to reduce the
possibility of brake overheating.
Noise from the hydraulic brake control
module is normal when HDC is active.
When HDC is activated, the initial HDC
speed is set to the current driving speed.
It can be increased or decreased by pressing
+RES or SET- on the steering wheel, or by
applying the accelerator or brake pedal. This
adjusted speed becomes the new set speed.
HDC will remain enabled between 30 and
60 km/h (19 and 37 mph); however, vehicle
speed cannot be set or maintained in this
range. HDC will automatically disable if the
vehicle speed is above 80 km/h (50 mph) or
above 60 km/h (37 mph) for at least
30 seconds.
5must be pressed again to re-enable HDC.
HDC may disable after an extended period
of use. If this happens, HDC will require
time to cool down. The length of time HDC
remains active depends on road conditions,
grade, set speed, vehicle loading, and
outside temperature.
GMC Yukon/Yukon XL/Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
Canada/Mexico-15555988) - 2022 - CRC - 12/3/21
224 Driving and Operating
When enabled, if the vehicle speed is above
30 km/h (19 mph) and below 60 km/h
(37 mph), a DIC message will display.
Driver Mode Control
Driver Mode Control (DMC) allows the driver
to adjust the overall driving experience to
better suit preference by adjusting multiple
subsystems simultaneously. Drive Mode
availability and affected vehicle subsystems
are dependent upon vehicle trim level,
region, and optional features.
Normal Mode is the default mode every
time the vehicle is started. A unique and
persistent indicator is displayed in the
instrument cluster for each mode.
Depending on trim level, Normal, Sport,
Snow/Ice, Off-Road, Tow/Haul, and Terrain
modes may be available.
To activate each mode, turn the Mode knob
on the instrument cluster to the left of the
steering wheel.
To activate Terrain Mode, press the Terrain
Mode button located next to the
Mode knob.
Normal Mode :Use this mode for normal
city and highway driving to provide a
smooth ride. This setting provides balance
between comfort and handling. This is the
standard/default mode. There is no
persistent indicator in the instrument cluster
for this mode.
8Sport Mode : Use this mode where road
conditions or personal preference demand a
more controlled response. When in Sport
Mode the vehicle automatically down shifts.
In this mode, the vehicle also monitors
driving behaviors and automatically enables
Performance Shift Features when spirited
driving is detected. These features maintain
lower transmission gears to increase
available engine braking and improve
acceleration response. The vehicle resumes
normal operation after a short period when
no spirited driving is detected. The steering
changes to provide precise control.
GMC Yukon/Yukon XL/Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
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226 Driving and Operating
When the vehicle comes to a stop on an
upward grade, automatic vehicle hold is
engaged until the driver presses the
accelerator pedal. Stop/Start and cruise
control are disabled in Terrain Mode.
Active Braking during lift throttle will be
engaged. This feature automatically applies
light braking to simulate heavy engine
braking of four-wheel-dive low. It also
applies light braking in D (Drive) until the
vehicle is at idle speeds. In L1 and L2 light
braking will typically bring the vehicle to a
stop. Active Braking during lift throttle also
reduces trailer braking.
Terrain Mode automatically exits to Normal
Mode if the brake temperatures become too
hot, electronic parking brake becomes
inoperable, or the vehicle cannot perform
braking or vehicle hold.
For more information on off-road driving,
seeOff-Road Driving 0194 and
Hill and Mountain Roads 0198. Terrain Mode Drive
Select Expected Vehicle Behavior Ideal Terrain
Drive (L3-Lx) Minor deceleration when off
throttle and mild ability to
modulate throttle; mimics
performance of 4
nwithout torque
multiplication. Grassy fields,
mild two tracks,
rutted roads,
large rolling hills
L2 Moderate deceleration when off
throttle and moderate ability to
modulate throttle; brings vehicle to
a stop in most cases. Mild rock crawling,
heavy ruts,
short, steeper grades
L1 Significant deceleration when off
throttle and significant ability to
modulate throttle; brings vehicle to
a stop in most cases. Rock crawling downhill
Vehicle Hold Features
.When the vehicle comes to a stop on an
incline grade in forward gear or on a
decline grade in reverse gear, Vehicle
Hold is engaged until the accelerator
pedal is pressed.
.When the vehicle is in forward gear on a
decline, the vehicle will creep down the
hill when the brake pedal is released without pressing the accelerator pedal.
The vehicle will also creep forward on flat
ground.
.If the driver seat belt is removed and the
driver door is opened while the vehicle is
being held, Electric Parking Brake (EPB) is
engaged.
.EPB engages if the vehicle is held for an
extended period.
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Driving and Operating 227
Terrain Mode is only available on vehicles
equipped with the single speed
transfer case.
Terrain Mode can only be active when:
.Vehicle speed is less than 80 km/h
(50 mph).
.The transfer case is in 4m.
Frequent use of this mode may cause brake
wear due to the light braking.
The vehicle automatically exits the mode if
the brakes get too hot. Terrain Mode can be
turned back on after the brakes have cooled.
When Terrain Mode is selected:
.Auto Engine Start/Stop is disabled.
.The Terrain Mode indicator displays on
the instrument cluster.
Magnetic Ride Control
This vehicle may have a semi-active damping
system called Magnetic Ride Control. With
this feature, improved vehicle ride and
handling is provided under a variety of
passenger and loading conditions.
Locking Rear Axle
Vehicles with a locking rear axle can give
more traction on snow, mud, ice, sand,
or gravel. It works like a standard axle most
of the time, but when traction is low, this
feature will allow the rear wheel with the
most traction to move the vehicle.
Four Corner Air Suspension
System
The Four Corner Air Suspension feature
provides full time load leveling capability
along with the benefit of adjusting ride
height for increased convenience and
capability.
{Warning
To help avoid personal injury or death,
make sure the area underneath the
vehicle and inside the wheel wells is clear
when lowering the vehicle.
{Warning
To help avoid personal injury or death,
always select the lowest ride height for
the current driving conditions. Higher ride
heights raise the vehicle's center of
gravity, increasing the chance of a
rollover during extreme maneuvers.
{Warning
Heavy loads on the roof rack will make
the vehicle's center of gravity higher,
increasing the possibility of a rollover. To
avoid losing control of the vehicle, always
select the normal height setting and
avoid high speeds, sudden starts, sharp
turns, sudden braking, or abrupt
maneuvers when carrying cargo on the
roof rack.
GMC Yukon/Yukon XL/Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
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Driving and Operating 229
Off-Road Driver Mode and Terrain Driver
Mode will automatically set Increased
Height when vehicle speed is less than
80 km/h (50 mph). If vehicle speed exceeds
80 km/h (50 mph), the vehicle will lower to
Normal Height. Normal Height will be
maintained until vehicle speed is slowed to
less than 16 km/h (10 mph) and then the
vehicle will automatically raise back to
Increased Height.
The vehicle will automatically lower from
Increased Height to Normal Height to
provide improved stability if aggressive
maneuvers are detected.
Maximum Height
Maximum Height is 50 mm (2 in) higher
than Normal Height. This ride height raises
the vehicle for off-road use and is only
available with specific optional content.
To raise the vehicle to Maximum Height,
first shift the transfer case to 4
n. Once the
transfer case is in 4
nand vehicle speed is
less than 48 km/hr (30 mph), select
Maximum Height in the Ride Height Menu.
If vehicle speed exceeds 48 km/h, the
vehicle will automatically lower to Increased
Height. The vehicle will automatically lower from
Maximum Height to Normal Height to
provide improved stability if aggressive
maneuvers are detected.
Aerodynamic Height
Aerodynamic Height is 20 mm (0.75 in)
lower than Normal Height. This ride height
lowers the vehicle at higher vehicle speeds
to improve aerodynamics.
The vehicle will lower to Aerodynamic
Height when vehicle speed exceeds
105 km/h (65 mph) for a period of time. The
vehicle will raise to Normal Height when the
vehicle slows to less than 48 km/h
(30 mph).
Aerodynamic Height is automatically
disabled when a trailer is connected to the
vehicle or Tow/Haul Driver Mode is active.
Suspension Modes
The air suspension has two special modes
located in the infotainment screen under
Settings/Vehicle/Suspension. When either is
active, the following amber icon will be
illuminated in the instrument cluster.
See
Four Corner Air Suspension Light 0120.
Service Mode
Service Mode will disable all air suspension
operation including raising and lowering the
vehicle and operation of the air compressor.
This mode is useful when the vehicle is
being towed on a flat bed or when any
work under the vehicle is being performed.
Service Mode is automatically enabled when
the vehicle is put on a hoist or a floor jack
is used to raise a corner. Service Mode may
temporarily enable during intense off-road
situations to prevent damaging air
suspension activity. Service Mode
automatically disables when vehicle speed
exceeds 16 km/h (10 mph).
Alignment Mode
Alignment Mode will optimize the vehicle
height to provide the most accurate wheel
alignment. This mode should be enabled
once the vehicle is driven onto the
alignment station.
GMC Yukon/Yukon XL/Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./
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230 Driving and Operating
To enable Alignment Mode, ensure the
vehicle is at Normal Height and shift the
vehicle to Neutral. Alignment Mode
automatically disables when vehicle speed
exceeds 16 km/h (10 mph).
Air Suspension Operation with Door(s) or
Hood Open
The air suspension will temporarily suspend
all height changes while the hood or any
door is open. The air suspension resumes
height changes once the hood and all doors
are closed. An open rear liftgate does not
suspend the air suspension operation.
System Over-Temperature
If the air suspension is under heavy use, the
system may temporarily suspend all height
changes to allow compressor cooldown.
When this occurs and a height change is
requested, a‘Leveling System Unavailable’
message will be displayed in the instrument
cluster.
Suspension Lowered for Stability
In the event of a loss of Electronic Stability
Control, the air suspension will lower the
vehicle at higher speeds to provide increased
stability. This will be accompanied by a
‘Vehicle Lowering for Stability’ message in
the instrument cluster. Excessive Vehicle Loading
If the air suspension detects excessive
vehicle loading, it will not raise above
Normal Height.
Air Suspension Service
If a
‘Service Leveling System’ message is
displayed in the instrument cluster, see your
authorized dealer immediately.
Cruise Control
{
Warning
Cruise control can be dangerous where
you cannot drive safely at a steady
speed. Do not use cruise control on
winding roads or in heavy traffic.
Cruise control can be dangerous on
slippery roads. On such roads, fast
changes in tire traction can cause
excessive wheel slip, and you could lose
control. Do not use cruise control on
slippery roads. If equipped with cruise control, a speed of
about 40 km/h (25 mph) or more can be
maintained without keeping your foot on
the accelerator. Cruise control does not work
at speeds below about 40 km/h (25 mph).
If the cruise control is being used and the
Traction Control System (TCS) or StabiliTrak/
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) begins to
limit wheel spin, the cruise control will
automatically disengage. See
Traction
Control/Electronic Stability Control 0221. If a
collision alert occurs when cruise control is
activated, cruise control is disengaged. See
Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System 0254.
When road conditions allow you to safely
use it again, cruise control can be turned
back on.
Turning off the TCS or StabiliTrak/ESC
system will disengage the cruise control.
If the brakes are applied, cruise control
disengages.
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Driving and Operating 233
Warning (Continued)
when vehicles suddenly slow or stop
ahead, or enter your lane. Also see
“Alerting the Driver”later in this section.
Complete attention is always required
while driving and you should be ready to
take action and apply the brakes. See
Defensive Driving 0192.
{Warning
ACC will not detect or brake for children,
pedestrians, animals, or other objects.
Do not use ACC when:
.On winding and hilly roads or when
the sensors are blocked by snow, ice,
or dirt. The system may not detect a
vehicle ahead. Keep the entire front of
the vehicle clean.
.Visibility is poor due to rain, snow,
fog, dirt, insect residue, or dust; when
other foreign objects obscure the
camera and/or radar; or when the
vehicle in front or oncoming traffic
causes additional environmental
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
obstructions, such as road spray. ACC
performance is limited under these
conditions.
.On slippery roads where fast changes
in tire traction can cause excessive
wheel slip.
J:Press to turn the system on or off. The
indicator turns white on the instrument
cluster when ACC is turned on.
RES+ : Press briefly to resume the previous
set speed or to increase vehicle speed if ACC
is already activated. To increase speed by about 1 km/h (1 mph), press RES+ briefly. To
increase speed to the next 5 km/h (5 mph)
mark on the speedometer, hold RES+.
SET–
:Press briefly to set the speed and
activate ACC or to decrease vehicle speed if
ACC is already activated. To decrease speed
by about 1 km/h (1 mph), press SET– briefly.
To decrease speed to the next 5 km/h
(5 mph) mark on the speedometer,
hold SET–.
*: Press to disengage ACC without erasing
the selected set speed.
[: Press to select a following gap setting
for ACC of Far, Medium, or Near.
The speedometer reading can be displayed
in either English or metric units. See
Instrument Cluster 0105. The increment
value used depends on the units displayed.
Switching Between ACC and Regular Cruise
Control
To switch between ACC and regular cruise
control, press and hold
*. A Driver
Information Display (DIC) message displays.
See Vehicle Messages 0130.