2023 GMC SIERRA power steering fluid

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-16504257) - 2023 - CRC - 5/9/22
Instruments and Controls 135
.The HUD brightness setting is not too
dim or too bright.
.The HUD is adjusted to the proper height.
.Polarized sunglasses are not worn.
.The windshield and HUD lens are clean.
If the HUD image is not correct, contact
your dealer.
The windshield is part of the HUD system.
See Windshield Replacement 0324.
Vehicle Messages
Messages displayed on the Driver
Information Center (DIC) indicate the status
of the vehicle or some action that may be
needed to correct a condition. Multiple
messages may appear one after another.
The messages that do not require
immediate action can be acknowledged and
cleared by pressing the thumbwheel. The
messages that require immediate action
cannot be cleared until that action is
performed.
All messages should be taken seriously;
clearing the message does not correct the
problem.
If a SERVICE message appears, see your
dealer. Follow the instructions given in the
messages. The system displays messages
regarding the following topics:
.Service Messages
.Fluid Levels
.Vehicle Security
.Brakes
.Steering
.Ride Control Systems
.Driver Assistance Systems
.Cruise Control
.Lighting and Bulb Replacement
.Wiper/Washer Systems
.Doors and Windows
.Seat Belts
.Airbag Systems
.Engine and Transmission
.Tire Pressure
.Battery
Engine Power Messages
ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED
This message displays when the vehicle's
propulsion power is reduced. A reduction in
propulsion power can affect the vehicle's
ability to accelerate. If this message is on,
but there is no observed reduction in
performance, proceed to your destination.
Under certain conditions the performance
may be reduced the next time the vehicle is
driven. The vehicle may be driven while this
message is on, but maximum acceleration
and speed may be reduced. Anytime this
message stays on, or displays repeatedly,
the vehicle should be taken to your dealer
for service as soon as possible.
Under certain operating conditions,
propulsion will be disabled. Try restarting
after the ignition has been off for
30 seconds.
Vehicle Speed Messages
SPEED LIMITED TO XXX KM/H (MPH)
This message shows that the vehicle speed
has been limited to the speed displayed. The
limited speed is a protection for various
propulsion and vehicle systems, such as
lubrication, thermal, brakes, suspension,
Teen Driver if equipped, or tires.
Universal Remote System
See
Radio Frequency Statement 0404.

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
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206 Driving and Operating
Steering
Caution
To avoid damage to the steering system,
do not drive over curbs, parking barriers,
or similar objects at speeds greater than
3 km/h (1 mph). Use care when driving
over other objects such as lane dividers
and speed bumps. Damage caused by
misuse of the vehicle is not covered by
the vehicle warranty.
Hydraulic Power Steering (2500/3500
Series)
(2500/3500 Series–All Regular Cab, Double
Cab/Crew Cab with Base Interior)
The power steering system may require
maintenance. See Power Steering Fluid 0315.
If power steering assist is lost because the
engine stops or the system malfunctions,
the vehicle can be steered but may require
increased effort. See your dealer.
(2500/3500 Series –Double Cab/Crew Cab
with Uplevel Interior)
The vehicle has a power steering system
that varies the amount of effort required to
steer the vehicle. Less steering effort is
required at slower speeds. At faster speeds,
the required steering effort increases. The
system helps the steering wheel return to
center at low speeds. Pressing the Tow/Haul
mode button adjusts steering effort for
driving conditions described in Tow/Haul
Mode 0234.
The power steering system may require
maintenance. See Power Steering Fluid 0315. If power steering assist is lost because the
engine stops or the system malfunctions,
the vehicle can be steered but may require
increased effort. See your dealer.
{Warning
Do not hold the brake pedal and press
the accelerator pedal at the same time.
Damage may occur to the power steering
and power brake systems which could
lead to reduced performance, up to and
including loss of steering and brake
assist.
Caution
Do not hold the steering wheel at full
rotation for more than 15 seconds and/or
at an elevated RPM. Damage may occur
to the power steering system and there
may be loss of power steering assist.
Curve Tips
.Take curves at a reasonable speed.
.Reduce speed before entering a curve.
.Maintain a reasonable steady speed
through the curve.

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
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Vehicle Care 301
Vehicle Care
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
California Perchlorate MaterialsRequirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Accessories and Modifications . . . . . . . . . 302
Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own Service Work . . . . . . . . 303
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
Engine Compartment Overview . . . . . . . . 305
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 308
Automatic Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . 309
Engine Air Filter Life System . . . . . . . . . . 309
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311
Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
Engine Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
Power Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317
Brake Pad Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317
Brake Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318
Battery - North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 319
Four-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
Front Axle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321 Rear Axle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
Noise Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock
Control Function Check (Mechanical
Shifter) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 322
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Wiper Blade Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Glass Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Windshield Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324
Gas Strut(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324
Headlamp Aiming
Front Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325
Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325
LED Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker, and Parking Lamps . . . . . . 325
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps, and Back-Up Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) and Cargo Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
License Plate Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
Electrical System
Electrical System Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
Engine Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . 329 Instrument Panel Fuse Block (Left) . . . . . 333
Instrument Panel Fuse Block (Right) . . . 334
Wheels and Tires
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337
All-Season Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 338
Winter Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 338
All-Terrain Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 338
Tire Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 338
Tire Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339
Tire Terminology and Definitions . . . . . 340
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342
Tire Pressure Monitor System . . . . . . . . . 343
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation . . . . . . 344
Tire Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 348
Tire Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 349
When It Is Time for New Tires . . . . . . . . . 351
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352
Different Size Tires and Wheels . . . . . . . . 353
Uniform Tire Quality Grading . . . . . . . . . . 353
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance . . . . 354
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 354
Tire Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 355
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 356
Tire Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 357
Full-Size Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367
Jump Starting
Jump Starting - North America . . . . . . . . 367

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-16504257) - 2023 - CRC - 5/18/22
306 Vehicle Care
1. Remote Negative (–) Location. SeeJump
Starting - North America 0367.
2. Positive (+) Terminal (Under Cover). See Jump Starting - North America 0367.
3. Battery - North America 0319.
4. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0310.
5. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine
Oil” under Engine Oil 0306.
6. Engine Cooling Fan (Out of View). See Cooling System 0311.
7. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. See Power Steering Fluid 0315.
8. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add
Engine Oil” underEngine Oil 0306.
9. Auxiliary Battery. Battery - North
America 0319.
10. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See Brake Fluid
0 318.
11. Engine Compartment Fuse Block 0329.
12. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. SeeCooling System 0311.
13. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Washer Fluid” underWasher
Fluid 0316.
If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the
Duramax diesel supplement.Engine Oil
For diesel engine vehicles, see “Engine Oil”
in the Duramax diesel supplement.
To ensure proper engine performance and
long life, careful attention must be paid to
engine oil. Following these simple, but
important steps will help protect your
investment:
.Use engine oil approved to the proper
specification and of the proper viscosity
grade. See “Selecting the Right Engine
Oil” in this section.
.Check the engine oil level regularly and
maintain the proper oil level. See
“Checking Engine Oil” and“When to Add
Engine Oil” in this section.
.Change the engine oil at the appropriate
time. SeeEngine Oil Life System 0308.
.Always dispose of engine oil properly. See
“What to Do with Used Oil” in this
section.
Checking Engine Oil
Check the engine oil level regularly, every
650 km (400 mi), especially prior to a long
trip. The engine oil dipstick handle is a loop.
See Engine Compartment Overview 0305 for
the location.
{Warning
The engine oil dipstick handle may be
hot; it could burn you. Use a towel or
glove to touch the dipstick handle.
If a low oil Driver Information Center (DIC)
message displays, check the oil level.
Follow these guidelines:
.To get an accurate reading, park the
vehicle on level ground. Check the engine
oil level after the engine has been off for
at least two hours. Checking the engine
oil level on steep grades or too soon after
engine shutoff can result in incorrect
readings. Accuracy improves when
checking a cold engine prior to starting.
Remove the dipstick and check the level.
.If unable to wait two hours, the engine
must be off for at least 15 minutes if the
engine is warm, or at least 30 minutes if
the engine is not warm. Pull out the
dipstick, wipe it with a clean paper towel
or cloth, then push it back in all the way.
Remove it again, keeping the tip down,
and check the level.

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-16504257) - 2023 - CRC - 5/18/22
Vehicle Care 315
normal idle speed for at least five minutes
while the vehicle is parked. If the warning is
still there, turn off the engine and get
everyone out of the vehicle until it
cools down.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine
for five minutes while parked. If the warning
is still displayed, turn off the engine until it
cools down.
Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode
If an overheated engine condition exists and
the ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED message
displays, an overheat protection mode which
alternates firing groups of cylinders helps to
prevent engine damage. In this mode, a loss
in power and engine performance will be
noticed. This operating mode allows the
vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an
emergency. Driving extended distances and/
or towing a trailer in the overheat
protection mode should be avoided.
If the engine or transmission detects an
impending hot fluid condition, then the
transmission may force upshifts to limit
temperatures. Downshifts may also be
prevented in this instance. Normal operationmay continue unless the display indicates
there is a hot condition and engine should
be idled.
Caution
After driving in the overheated engine
protection operating mode, the engine oil
will be severely degraded. Any repairs
performed before the engine is cool may
cause engine damage. Allow the engine
to cool before attempting any repair.
Repair the cause of coolant loss, change
the oil, and reset the oil life system. See
Engine Oil
0306.
Engine Fan
If the vehicle has the Duramax diesel
engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement.
The vehicle has a clutched engine cooling
fan. When the clutch is engaged, the fan
spins faster to provide more air to cool the
engine. In most everyday driving conditions,
the fan is spinning slower and the clutch is
not fully engaged. This improves fuel
economy and reduces fan noise. Under
heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing, and/or
high outside temperatures, the fan speed
increases as the clutch more fully engages, so an increase in fan noise may be heard.
This is normal and should not be mistaken
as the transmission slipping or making extra
shifts. It is merely the cooling system
functioning properly. The fan will slow down
when additional cooling is not required and
the clutch partially disengages.
This fan noise may be heard when starting
the engine. It will go away as the fan clutch
partially disengages.
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid reservoir is in the
engine compartment on the driver side of
the vehicle. See
Engine Compartment
Overview 0305 for reservoir location.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power
steering fluid unless there is a leak
suspected in the system or an unusual noise

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-16504257) - 2023 - CRC - 5/18/22
316 Vehicle Care
is heard. A fluid loss in this system could
indicate a problem. Have the system
inspected and repaired.
Wait for the power steering system to cool,
with the engine off, before checking the
fluid.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
To check the power steering fluid:1. Set the ignition off and let the engine compartment cool down.
2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.
3. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
4. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
5. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
The level should be between the ADD and
FULL marks. If necessary, add only enough
fluid to bring the level up to the hashed
area between the ADD and FULL marks, do
not overfill. To prevent contamination of brake fluid,
never check or fill the power steering
reservoir with the brake master cylinder
cover off.
What to Use
Caution
Use of the incorrect fluid may damage
the vehicle and the damages may not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Always
use the correct fluid listed in
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
0389.
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0389.
Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use
the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage
hoses and seals.
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When windshield washer fluid needs to be
added, be sure to read the manufacturer's
instructions before use. Use a fluid that has
sufficient protection against freezing in an
area where the temperature may fall below
freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
The vehicle has a low washer fluid message
on the DIC that comes on when the washer
fluid is low. The message is displayed for
15 seconds at the start of each ignition cycle.
When the WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID
message displays, washer fluid will need to
be added to the windshield washer fluid
reservoir.
Open the cap with the washer symbol on it.
Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See
Engine Compartment Overview 0305 for
reservoir location.
Caution
.Do not use washer fluid that contains
any type of water repellent coating.
This can cause the wiper blades to
chatter or skip.
(Continued)

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-16504257) - 2023 - CRC - 5/18/22
Vehicle Care 379
Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding, cracks,
chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint boots
and axle seals for leaks.
2500/3500 Series vehicles, at least every
engine oil change lubricate the upper and
lower control arm ball joints.
2500/3500 Series vehicles equipped with
steering linkage, at least every engine oil
change lubricate the tie rod ball joints, idler
arm pivot shaft bearings, idler arm socket,
and pitman arm socket.
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
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. Refer to “Finish Care”previously in
this section.
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions, regularly
clean the vehicle's interior. Before using
cleaners, read and follow all safety
instructions on the label. While cleaning the
interior, open the doors and windows to get
proper ventilation. Newspapers or dark
garments can transfer color to the vehicle’s
interior.

GMC Sierra/Sierra Denali 2500 HD/3500 HD Owner Manual (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S./Canada-16504257) - 2023 - CRC - 5/9/22
388 Service and Maintenance
Systems, Fluids, and Visible Leak
Inspection
.Engine oil
.Transmission
.Drive axle
.Transfer case
.Engine cooling system
.Power steering, if equipped
.Fuel system
.Windshield washer fluid
Tire Inspection
.Tire pressure, tread depth, and wear
.Rotation, if applicable
.Alignment check, optional
.Reset tire pressure monitor
.Check tire sealant expiration date,
if equipped
.Check spare tire, if equipped
Brakes
.Check brake system
Visible and Functional Inspections
.Seat belt components
.Exhaust system
.Accelerator pedal
.Passenger compartment air filter,
if equipped
.Engine air filter
.Hoses
.Belts
.Shocks and struts
.Steering components
.Axle boots or driveshaft and u-joints
.Compartment lift struts, if equipped
.Floor mats secured, no interference with
pedals
.Horn
.Ignition lock, if equipped
.Starter switch
.Evaporative control system
Lubricate
.Chassis components
Special Application Services
.Vehicles with Dual Wheels: Check dual
wheel nut torque at 160, 1 600, and
10 000 km (100, 1,000, and 6,000 mi) of
driving. Repeat this service whenever a
tire/wheel is serviced or removed.
.Severe Commercial Use Vehicles Only:
Lubricate chassis components every oil
change.
.Have underbody flushing service
performed. See “Underbody Maintenance”
in Exterior Care 0374.