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symbol on it. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10-6 for reservoir location.
Washer Fluid
What to Use When the vehicle needs windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions before use. If operating the vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid
{ Caution
. Do not use engine coolant
(antifreeze) in the windshield washer. It can damage the windshield washer system and paint.
. Do not mix water with
ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage the washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.
. 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 (Continued)
Vehicle Care
10-17
Caution (Continued)
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 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.
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10-18
Vehicle Care
{ 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 on page 12-2. 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 parts are improperly installed.
Brake Fluid The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT 4 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10-6 for the location of the reservoir. The fluid level must be between the MIN and MAX marks.
There are only two reasons why the fluid level in the reservoir might go down:
The fluid level goes down because of normal brake lining wear. When new linings are installed, the fluid level goes back up.
. A fluid leak in the brake
hydraulic system can also cause a low fluid level. Have the brake hydraulic system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later the brakes will not work well.
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Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid does not correct a leak. If fluid is added when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
{ Warning
If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and the vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 5-16.
What to Add Use only new DOT 4 brake fluid from a sealed container. It is recommended that the brake hydraulic system be flushed and refilled with new DOT 4 fluid at a regular maintenance interval every two years. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-12. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
{ Warning
With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake hydraulic system, the brakes might not work well. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.
Vehicle Care
10-19
{ Caution
. Using the wrong fluid can
badly damage brake hydraulic system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in the brake hydraulic system can damage brake hydraulic system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced. Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.
. If brake fluid is spilled on the
vehicle's painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on the vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately.
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10-20
Vehicle Care
Battery The original equipment battery is maintenance free. Do not remove the cap and do not add fluid. Refer to the replacement number on the original battery label when a new battery is needed.
{ Warning
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Vehicle Storage
{ Warning
Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. See Jump Starting on page 10-62 for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.
Infrequent Usage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery to keep the battery from running down. Extended Storage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery or use a battery trickle charger.
All-Wheel Drive
Transfer Case Under normal driving conditions, transfer case fluid does not require changing or checking unless there
is a fluid leak or unusual noise. If required, have the transfer case serviced by your dealer.
Starter Switch Check
{ Warning When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before starting this check, be
sure there is enough room around the vehicle.
2. Apply both the parking brake
and the regular brake. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in P (Park) or N (Neutral).
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If the vehicle starts in any other position, contact your dealer for service.
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check
{ Warning When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before starting this check, be
sure there is enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface.
2. Apply the parking brake. Be
ready to apply the regular brake immediately if the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the
ignition on, but do not start the engine. Without applying the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of P (Park) with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out of P (Park), contact your dealer for service.
Ignition Transmission Lock Check While parked and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF in each shift lever position.
The ignition should turn to LOCK/OFF only when the shift lever is in P (Park). The ignition key should come out only in LOCK/OFF.
Contact your dealer if service is required.
Vehicle Care
10-21
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check { Warning
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake.
To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and the transmission in N (Neutral), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only.
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Vehicle Care
To check the P (Park) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to P (Park). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.
Contact your dealer if service is required.
Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear and cracking. See Maintenance Schedule on page 11-2. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, see Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 11-13.
{ Caution
Allowing the wiper arm to touch the windshield when no wiper blade is installed could damage
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
the windshield. Any damage that occurs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not allow the wiper arm to touch the windshield.
Front Wiper Blade Replacement To replace the front wiper blades: 1. Lift the wiper arm from the windshield until no further movement is possible.
2. Press the release button on the top side of the wiper and pull the wiper blade out of the end of the wiper arm. Install the wiper blade connector by sliding into the end of the wiper arm until the button on the wiper blade clicks into place with the wiper arm.
3.
4. Place the wiper arm with the
wiper blade in place back on the windshield.
{ Caution
Damage may occur if the wiper blades are not in contact with the windshield before turning on the wiper system.
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Rear Wiper Blade Replacement The rear wiper blade and wiper arm have a cover for protection. The cover must be removed before the wiper blade can be replaced. To remove the cover:
To replace the wiper blade: 1. Lift the wiper arm away from the
windshield.
Vehicle Care
10-23
Headlamp Aiming Headlamp aim has been preset and should need no further adjustment. If the vehicle is damaged in a crash, the headlamp aim may be affected. If adjustment to the headlamps is necessary, see your dealer.
1. Slide a plastic tool under the
cover and push upward to unsnap.
2. Slide the cover toward the wiper
blade tip to unhook it from the blade assembly.
3. Remove the cover. 4. After wiper blade replacement,
ensure that the cover hook slides into the slot in the blade assembly.
5. Snap the cover down to secure.
2. Push the release lever (2) to
disengage the hook and push the wiper arm (1) out of the blade assembly (3).
3. Push the new blade assembly securely on the wiper arm until the release lever clicks into place.
4. Replace the wiper cover.
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10-24
Vehicle Care
Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 10-26. For any bulb‐changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer.
Halogen Bulbs
{ Warning
Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package.
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps
High-Beam Headlamp/ Low-Beam Headlamp 1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10-4.
Driver Side Shown, Passenger Side Similar
1. Turn Signal Lamp 2. Low-Beam Headlamp 3. Parking Lamp 4. High-Beam Headlamp
2. Remove the headlamp bulb
access cover.
3. Turn the bulb counterclockwise
and pull straight back.
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Vehicle Care
10-25
4. Disconnect the wiring harness
2. Remove the parking lamp bulb
2. Remove the turn signal lamp
5.
connector from the bulb. Install the new bulb in the headlamp assembly by turning clockwise.
6. Reconnect the wiring harness
7.
connector. Install the headlamp bulb access cover.
Parking Lamp 1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10-4.
socket from the headlamp assembly by turning counterclockwise.
bulb socket from the headlamp assembly by turning counterclockwise.
4.
3. Remove the bulb from the bulb socket by pulling it straight out. Install the new bulb in the bulb socket. Install the bulb socket into the headlamp assembly by turning clockwise.
5.
Turn Signal Lamp 1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10-4.
4.
3. Remove the bulb from the bulb socket by pulling it straight out. Install the new bulb in the bulb socket. Install the bulb socket into the headlamp assembly by turning clockwise.
5.
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10-26
Vehicle Care
License Plate Lamp
Lamp Assembly
Bulb Assembly
To replace one of these bulbs: 1. Push the left end of the lamp
assembly toward the right.
2. Turn the lamp assembly down to
remove it.
3. Turn the bulb socket (1)
counterclockwise to remove it from the lamp assembly (3).
4. Pull the bulb (2) straight out of
the bulb socket (1).
5. Push the replacement bulb
straight into the bulb socket and turn the bulb socket clockwise to install it into the lamp assembly. 6. Turn the lamp assembly into the
lamp assembly opening engaging the clip side first.
7. Push on the lamp side opposite the clip until the lamp assembly snaps into place.
Replacement Bulbs
Exterior Lamp
Back-Up Lamp Front Parking Lamp Front Turn Signal Lamp High-Beam Headlamp License Plate Lamp Low-Beam Headlamp
Bulb
Number
921
7444NA 7444NA
9005LL
W5W LL H11 LL
For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact your dealer.
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Electrical System
Electrical System Overload The vehicle has fuses and circuit breakers to protect against an electrical system overload. When the current electrical load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting the circuit until the current load returns to normal or the problem is fixed. This greatly reduces the chance of circuit overload and fire caused by electrical problems. Fuses and circuit breakers protect power devices in the vehicle. Replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating. If there is a problem on the road and a fuse needs to be replaced, the same amperage fuse can be borrowed. Choose some feature of the vehicle that is not needed to use and replace it as soon as possible.
Headlamp Wiring An electrical overload may cause the lamps to go on and off, or in some cases to remain off. Have the headlamp wiring checked right away if the lamps go on and off or remain off. Windshield Wipers If the wiper motor overheats due to heavy snow or ice, the windshield wipers will stop until the motor cools and will then restart. Although the circuit is protected from electrical overload, overload due to heavy snow or ice may cause wiper linkage damage. Always clear ice and heavy snow from the windshield before using the windshield wipers. If the overload is caused by an electrical problem and not snow or ice, be sure to get it fixed.
Vehicle Care
10-27
Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in the vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses and circuit breakers. This greatly reduces the chance of damage caused by electrical problems. To check a fuse, look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure to replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating. Fuses of the same amperage can be temporarily borrowed from another fuse location, if a fuse goes out. Replace the fuse as soon as possible. To identify and check fuses, circuit breakers, and relays, see Engine Compartment Fuse Block on page 10-28, Instrument Panel Fuse Block on page 10-31, and Rear Compartment Fuse Block on page 10-33.
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10-28
Vehicle Care
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
To remove the fuse block cover, squeeze the clip and lift it up.
{ Caution
Spilling liquid on any electrical component on the vehicle may damage it. Always keep the covers on any electrical component.
The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.
Mini Fuses
Usage
10
11
Sunroof Outside Rearview Mirror Switch Canister Vent Solenoid Not Used Electronic Brake Control Module Valve Not Used Not Used Transmission Control Module Battery BCM Regulated Voltage Control Fuel System Control Module R/C/ Headlamp Leveling Rear Wiper
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Mini Fuses
12
13
1415
16
17
18
19
20
2122
23
24Usage Rear Window Defogger Not Used Outside Rearview Mirror Heater Fuel System Control Module Battery Heated Seat Module/Memory Module Transmission Control Module R/C Engine Control Module R/C Fuel Pump Not Used Fan Relay (Auxiliary Fuse Block) Not Used Ignition Coil/Injectors Washer Pump
Vehicle Care
10-29
Mini Fuses
Usage
Mini Fuses
Usage
25
2627
28
2930
31
32
33
Not Used Canister Purge Solenoid/Water Valve Solenoid/ Oxygen Sensors – Pre and Post/Turbo Wastegate Solenoid (1.4L)/Turbo Bypass Solenoid (1.4L) Not Used Not Used Engine Control Module Powertrain Ignition 1/Ignition 2
Mass Air Flow Sensor Left High-Beam Headlamp Right High-Beam Headlamp Engine Control Module Battery34
3536
Horn Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Front Fog Lamps
J-Case Fuses
Usage
10
Electronic Brake Control Module Pump Front Wiper Blower Motor IEC R/C Not Used Not Used Not Used Cooling Fan Low/Mid Cooling Fan High EVP
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Vehicle Care
J-Case Fuses
Usage
HC-Mini Relays
Usage
11
Starter Solenoid
Cooling Fan High
U-Micro Relays
Usage
Auxiliary Fuse Block
Not Used Spare
{ Caution
Spilling liquid on any electrical component on the vehicle may damage it. Always keep the covers on any electrical component.
HC-Micro
Relays
Starter
Usage
Usage
Mini
Relays
Run Crank Cooling Fan Mid Powertrain Relay Cooling Fan Low
To remove the fuse block cover, squeeze the clips and lift it up.
The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.
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Vehicle Care
10-31
Instrument Panel Fuse Block
Relays
Usage
01
02
03
04
Electric Vacuum Pump Cooling Fan Control 1
Cooling Fan Control 2
Trailer (N/A)The instrument panel fuse block is on the underside of the driver side instrument panel. To access the fuses, remove the storage compartment. To remove the storage compartment, open the compartment and pull it out.
The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.
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10-32
Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses
10
11
Usage Body Control Module 1
Body Control Module 2
Body Control Module 3
Body Control Module 4
Body Control Module 5
Body Control Module 6
Body Control Module 7
Body Control Module 8
Discrete Logic Ignition Switch Sensing Diagnostic Module Battery Data Link ConnectorMini Fuses
Usage
Mini Fuses
Usage
12
13
14
1516
17
18
1920
21
Heater, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning MDL/ICS Liftgate Relay UPA Module LDW Module/Inside Rearview Mirror Adaptive Forward Lighting Module Power WNDWSW DR Rain Sensor Body Control Module Regulated Voltage Control Steering Wheel Switch Backlighting A/C Accessory Power Outlet/ PRNDL
22
23
24
25
2627
28
29
30
31
3233
34Cigar Lighter/DC Accessory Power Outlet Spare Spare Spare Automatic Occupant Sensing Display IPC/PTC Control/ Clutch Switch Headlamp Switch/ AFL/DC Converter Spare Spare IPC Battery Radio/Chime/ Aux Jack Display/Faceplate OnStar/UHP/DAB
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Vehicle Care
10-33
The rear compartment fuse block is behind a cover on the left side of the rear compartment. To access the fuses, remove the cover. The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.
S/B Fuses
Usage
Relays
Usage
Spare Spare Power Window Motor Front Power Window Motor Rear Logistic Mode Relay Spare Spare Spare
01
02
03
04
05Accessory/Retained Accessory Power Liftgate Spare Spare Logistic Mode
Rear Compartment Fuse Block
Circuit Breaker
Usage
CB1
Spare
Midi Fuse
Usage
M01
PTC
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Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses
Usage
Mini Fuses
Usage
10
11
12Driver Seat Power Lumbar Switch Passenger Seat Power Lumbar Switch Amplifier Trailer Socket (N/A) All-Wheel Drive Module Automatic Occupant Sensing Module Spare/LPG Module Battery Trailer Parking Lamps (N/A) Spare Spare/Side Blind Zone Alert Module Trailer Module (N/A) Nav Dock
13
14
15
1617
18
Heated Steering Wheel Trailer Socket (N/A) EVP Switch Water In Fuel Sensor Inside Rearview Mirror/Regulated Voltage Control Spare/LPG Module Run/Crank
S/B Fuses
Usage
Driver Power Seat Switch/Memory Module Passenger Power Seat Switch Trailer Module (N/A) A/C-D/C Inverter Battery
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S/B Fuses
Usage
Headlamp Washer Spare Spare Spare
Relays
Usage Ignition Relay Run Relay
Wheels and Tires
Tires Every new GM vehicle has high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. See the warranty manual for information regarding the tire warranty and where to get service. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer.
{ Warning
. Poorly maintained and
improperly used tires are dangerous.
. Overloading the tires can
cause overheating as a result of too much flexing. There could be a blowout
(Continued)
Vehicle Care
10-35
Warning (Continued)
and a serious crash. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10.
. Underinflated tires pose
the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting crash could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.
. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured, or broken by a sudden impact — such as when hitting a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure.
(Continued)
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10-36
Vehicle Care
Warning (Continued)
. Worn or old tires can
cause a crash. If the tread is badly worn, replace them.
. Replace any tires that
have been damaged by impacts with potholes, curbs, etc.
. Improperly repaired tires can cause a crash. Only the dealer or an authorized tire service center should repair, replace, dismount, and mount the tires.
. Do not spin the tires in
excess of 56 km/h (35 mph) on slippery surfaces such as snow, mud, ice, etc. Excessive spinning may cause the tires to explode.
All-Season Tires This vehicle may come with all-season tires. These tires are designed to provide good overall performance on most road surfaces and weather conditions. Original equipment tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. Original equipment all-season tires can be identified by the last two characters of this TPC code, which will be “MS.” Consider installing winter tires on the vehicle if frequent driving on snow or ice-covered roads is expected. All-season tires provide adequate performance for most winter driving conditions, but they may not offer the same level of traction or performance as winter tires on snow or ice-covered roads. See Winter Tires on page 10-36.
Winter Tires This vehicle was not originally equipped with winter tires. Winter tires are designed for increased traction on snow and ice-covered roads. Consider installing winter tires on the vehicle if frequent driving on ice or snow covered roads is expected. See your dealer for details regarding winter tire availability and proper tire selection. Also, see Buying New Tires on page 10-51. With winter tires, there may be decreased dry road traction, increased road noise, and shorter tread life. After changing to winter tires, be alert for changes in vehicle handling and braking. If using winter tires: . Use tires of the same brand and
tread type on all four wheel positions.
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. Use only radial ply tires of the
same size, load range, and speed rating as the original equipment tires.
Winter tires with the same speed rating as the original equipment tires may not be available for H, V, W, Y, and ZR speed rated tires. If winter tires with a lower speed rating are chosen, never exceed the tire's maximum speed capability.
Summer Tires This vehicle may come with high performance summer tires. These tires have a special tread and compound that are optimized for maximum dry and wet road performance. This special tread and compound will have decreased performance in cold climates, and on ice and snow. We recommend installing winter tires on the vehicle if frequent driving at temperatures below approximately 5°C (40°F) or on ice or snow covered roads is expected. See Winter Tires on page 10-36.
Tire Sidewall Labeling Useful information about a tire is molded into its sidewall. The examples show a typical passenger vehicle tire and a compact spare tire sidewall.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire Example (1) Tire Size: The tire size is a combination of letters and numbers used to define a particular tire's width, height, aspect ratio, construction type,
Vehicle Care
10-37
and service description. See the “Tire Size” illustration later in this section. (2) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM's TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines. (3) DOT (Department of Transportation): The Department of Transportation (DOT) code indicates that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. DOT Tire Date of Manufacture: The last four digits of the TIN indicate the tire manufactured date. The first two
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Vehicle Care
digits represent the week (01–52) and the last two digits, the year. For example, the third week of the year 2010 would have a four-digit DOT date of 0310. (4) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following the DOT (Department of Transportation) code are the Tire Identification Number (TIN). The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side may have the date of manufacture. (5) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (6) Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires based on three
performance factors: treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance. For more information see Uniform Tire Quality Grading on page 10-53. (7) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load.
Compact Spare Tire Example (1) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.
(2) Temporary Use Only: The compact spare tire or temporary use tire should not be driven at speeds over 80 km/h (50 mph). The compact spare tire is for emergency use when a regular road tire has lost air and gone flat. If the vehicle has a compact spare tire, see Compact Spare Tire on page 10-61 and If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10-56. (3) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following the DOT (Department of Transportation) code are the Tire Identification Number (TIN). The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side may have the date of manufacture.
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(4) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load. (5) Tire Inflation: The temporary use tire or compact spare tire should be inflated to 420 kPa (60 psi). For more information on tire pressure and inflation see Tire Pressure on page 10-43. (6) Tire Size: A combination of letters and numbers define a tire's width, height, aspect ratio, construction type, and service description. The letter T as the first character in the tire size means the tire is for temporary use only. (7) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment tires designed to GM's specific tire performance
criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM's TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines.
Tire Designations
Tire Size The following is an example of a typical passenger vehicle tire size.
(1) Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: The United States version of a metric tire sizing system. The letter P as the first character in the tire size means a passenger
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vehicle tire engineered to standards set by the U.S. Tire and Rim Association. (2) Tire Width: The three-digit number indicates the tire section width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. (3) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that indicates the tire height-to-width measurements. For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is 60, as shown in item 3 of the illustration, it would mean that the tire's sidewall is 60 percent as high as it is wide. (4) Construction Code: A letter code is used to indicate the type of ply construction in the tire. The letter R means radial ply construction; the letter D means diagonal or bias ply construction; and the letter B means belted-bias ply construction.
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(5) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches. (6) Service Description: These characters represent the load index and speed rating of the tire. The load index represents the load carrying capacity a tire is certified to carry. The speed rating is the maximum speed a tire is certified to carry a load.
Tire Terminology and Definitions Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in kPa (kilopascal) or psi (pounds per square inch). Accessory Weight: The combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples of optional accessories are
automatic transmission, power windows, power seats, and air conditioning. Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire's height to its width. Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made from steel or other reinforcing materials. Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim. Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Cold Tire Pressure: The amount of air pressure in a tire, measured in kPa (kilopascal) or psi (pounds per square inch)
before a tire has built up heat from driving. See Tire Pressure on page 10-43. Curb Weight: The weight of a motor vehicle with standard and optional equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, but without passengers and cargo. DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall of a tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. The DOT code includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator which can also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant, brand, and date of production.
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GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10. GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10. GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10. Intended Outboard Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle. Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure. Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles.
Load Index: An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279
that corresponds to the load carrying capacity of a tire. Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum air pressure to which a cold tire can be inflated. The maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall. Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire. Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight, and production options weight. Normal Occupant Weight: The number of occupants a vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 68 kg (150 lb). See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10.Vehicle Care
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Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions. Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering, or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on the other sidewall of the tire. Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles.
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Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire inflation pressure as shown on the tire placard. See Tire Pressure on page 10-43 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10. Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated. Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead. Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire can operate.
Traction: The friction between the tire and the road surface. The amount of grip provided. Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road. Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes called wear bars, that show across the tread of a tire when only 1.6 mm (1/16 in) of tread remains. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 10-50. UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards): A tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a tire's traction, temperature, and treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the
sidewall of the tire. See Uniform Tire Quality Grading on page 10-53. Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of designated seating positions multiplied by 68 kg (150 lb) plus the rated cargo load. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10. Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight. Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the vehicle capacity weight and the original equipment tire size and recommended inflation pressure. See “Tire and Loading Information Label” under Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10.
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Tire Pressure Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively.
{ Caution
Neither tire underinflation nor overinflation is good. Underinflated tires, or tires that do not have enough air, can result in:
. Tire overloading and
overheating which could lead to a blowout.
. Premature or irregular wear. . Poor handling. . Reduced fuel economy.
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
Overinflated tires, or tires that have too much air, can result in:
. Unusual wear. . Poor handling. . Rough ride. . Needless damage from
road hazards.
The Tire and Loading Information label on the vehicle indicates the original equipment tires and the correct cold tire inflation pressures. The recommended pressure is the minimum air pressure needed to support the vehicle's maximum load carrying capacity. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10.
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How the vehicle is loaded affects vehicle handling and ride comfort. Never load the vehicle with more weight than it was designed to carry.
When to Check Check the tires once a month or more. Do not forget the compact spare, if the vehicle has one. The cold compact spare tire pressure should be at 420 kPa (60 psi). See Compact Spare Tire on page 10-61.
How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gauge to check tire pressure. Proper tire inflation cannot be determined by looking at the tire. Check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold, meaning the vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours or no more than 1.6 km (1 mi).
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Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem. Press the tire gauge firmly onto the valve to get a pressure measurement. If the cold tire inflation pressure matches the recommended pressure on the Tire and Loading Information label, no further adjustment is necessary. If the inflation pressure is low, add air until the recommended pressure is reached. If the inflation pressure is high, press on the metal stem in the center of the tire valve to release air. Recheck the tire pressure with the tire gauge. Return the valve caps on the valve stems to prevent leaks and keep out dirt and moisture.
Tire Pressure Monitor System The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses radio and sensor technology to check tire pressure levels. The TPMS sensors monitor the air pressure in your tires and transmit tire pressure readings to a receiver located in the vehicle. Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.) As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire
pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale. Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly.
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The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 10-45.
See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13-12.
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). The TPMS is designed to warn the driver when a low tire pressure condition exists. TPMS sensors are mounted onto each tire and wheel assembly, excluding the spare tire and wheel assembly. The TPMS sensors monitor the air pressure in the tires and transmit the tire pressure readings to a receiver located in the vehicle.
When a low tire pressure condition is detected, the TPMS illuminates the low tire pressure warning light
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located on the instrument cluster. If the warning light comes on, stop as soon as possible and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10. A message to check the pressure in a specific tire may display in the Driver Information Center (DIC). The low tire pressure warning light and the DIC warning message, if equipped, come on at each ignition cycle until the tires are inflated to the correct inflation pressure. Using the DIC, it may be possible to view the tire pressure levels. For additional information and details about the DIC operation and displays, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5-22. The low tire pressure warning light may come on in cool weather when the vehicle is first started, and then turn off as the vehicle is driven. This could be an early indicator that the
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air pressure is getting low and needs to be inflated to the proper pressure. A Tire and Loading Information label shows the size of the original equipment tires and the correct inflation pressure for the tires when they are cold. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-10, for an example of the Tire and Loading Information label and its location. Also see Tire Pressure on page 10-43. The TPMS can warn about a low tire pressure condition, but it does not replace normal tire maintenance. See Tire Inspection on page 10-48, Tire Rotation on page 10-49, and Tires on page 10-35.
{ Caution
Tire sealant materials are not all the same. A non-approved tire sealant could damage the TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor damage
