2011 Buick Lacrosse Owners Manual

leak means that sooner or later the brakes will not work well.

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Vehicle Care

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 brake 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 5‑19.

What to Add Use only new DOT 3 brake fluid from a sealed container. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑7. 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.

Notice:

. 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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Battery Refer to the replacement number on the original battery label when a new battery is needed.

{ DANGER

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.

If the battery has a very low charge or is dead, it might not be possible to remove the ignition key from the ignition switch or shift out of P (Park). See Shifting Out of Park on page 9‑26.

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 10‑86 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.

Vehicle Care

10-27

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. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See Parking Brake on page 9‑33. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.

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Vehicle Care

3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in P (Park) or N (Neutral). 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. Firmly apply the parking

brake. See Parking Brake on page 9‑33. 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).

. With the key access ignition

system, the ignition key should come out only in LOCK/OFF. See Ignition Positions (Key Access) on page 9‑17 or Ignition Positions (Keyless Access) on page 9‑19.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

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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. 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.

Vehicle Care

10-29

Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear and cracking. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 11‑2 for more information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, see Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 11‑9. To replace the windshield wiper blade: 1. Pull the windshield wiper assembly away from the windshield.

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Vehicle Care

4. Remove the wiper blade.

Allowing the wiper blade arm to touch the windshield when no wiper blade is installed could damage the windshield. Any damage that occurs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not allow the wiper blade to touch the windshield. 5. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 for

wiper blade replacement.

Headlamp Aiming The headlamp aiming system has been preset at the factory. If the vehicle is damaged in an accident, the aim of the headlamps may be affected and adjustment may be necessary. It is recommended that a dealer adjust the headlamps. To re-aim the headlamps yourself, use the following procedure. The vehicle should be properly prepared as follows:

The vehicle should be placed so the headlamps are 7.6 m (25 ft) from a light‐colored wall. The vehicle must have all four tires on a level surface which is level all the way to the wall.

2. Lift up on theplastic latch in the middle of the wiper blade where the wiper arm attaches.

3. With the latch open, pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield far enough to release it from the J-hooked end of the wiper arm.

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The vehicle should be placed so it is perpendicular to the wall or other flat surface. The vehicle should not have any snow, ice, or mud on it. The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being performed. The vehicle should be normally loaded with a full tank of fuel and one person or 75 kg (160 lbs) sitting in the driver seat. Tires should be properly inflated.

Headlamp aiming is done with the vehicle's low-beam headlamps. The high-beam headlamps will be correctly aimed if the low-beam headlamps are aimed properly.

Vehicle Care

10-31

To adjust the vertical aim: 1. Open the hood. See Hood on

page 10‑5.

Base

Uplevel

2. Locate the aim dot on the lens of

the low‐beam headlamp.

3. Measure the distance from the

ground to the aim dot on the low‐beam headlamp. Record the distance.

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Vehicle Care

4. At the wall, measure from the ground upward (A) to the recorded distance from Step 3 and mark it.

5. Draw or tape a horizontal line (B)

on the wall the width of the vehicle at the height of the mark in Step 4.

Notice: Do not cover a headlamp to improve beam cut-off when aiming. Covering a headlamp may cause excessive heat build-up which may cause damage to the headlamp.

6. Turn on the low-beam

headlamps and place a piece of cardboard or equivalent in front of the headlamp not being adjusted. This allows only the beam of light from the headlamp being adjusted to be seen on the flat surface.

Uplevel

7. Locate the vertical headlamp

aiming screw, which are under the hood near each headlamp assembly.

8. Turn the vertical aiming

screw until the headlamp beam is aimed to the horizontal tape line. Turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to raise or lower the angle of the beam.

Base

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Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 10‑37. 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.

Vehicle Care

10-33

High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lighting

{ WARNING

The low beam high intensity discharge lighting system operates at a very high voltage. If you try to service any of the system components, you could be seriously injured. Have your dealer or a qualified technician service them.

After an HID headlamp bulb has been replaced, the beam might be a slightly different shade than it was originally. This is normal.

9. Make sure that the light

from the headlamp is positioned at the bottom edge of the horizontal tape line. The lamp on the left (A) shows the correct headlamp aim. The lamp on the right (B) shows the incorrect headlamp aim.

10. Repeat Steps 7 through 9 for

the opposite headlamp.

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Vehicle Care

Headlamps, Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps

Base Headlamp Assembly The base model vehicle has a halogen high-beam headlamp, a low-beam/Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) headlamp, and a turn signal/parking lamp on the headlamp assembly. To replace one of these bulbs: 1. Open the hood. See Hood on

page 10‑5.

3. Remove the bulb socket

from the headlamp by turning counterclockwise one‐quarter turn.

4. Remove the bulb from the

socket. If replacing the high/low‐beam bulb, pry the two clips on either end of the bulb and pull straight out. Install the new bulb in the socket.

5.

2.

A. Low-Beam Headlamp/DRL B. High-Beam Headlamp C. Parking/Turn Signal Lamp If replacing a headlamp bulb, remove the dust cover from the back of the headlamp housing by turning counterclockwise one‐quarter turn.

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6.

7.

Install the bulb socket by turning clockwise one‐quarter turn. If a headlamp bulb was replaced, install the dust cover in the back of the headlamp housing by turning clockwise one‐quarter turn.

Uplevel Headlamp Assembly The uplevel model vehicle has a high intensity discharge (HID) high/low beam, a dedicated DRL and a parking/turn signal lamp on the headlamp assembly. See High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lighting on page 10‑33 for more information. To replace one of these bulbs: 1. Open the hood. See Hood on

page 10‑5.

Vehicle Care

10-35

Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps, and Back-Up Lamps

A. DRL Lamp B. Parking/Turn Signal Lamp

2. Turn the bulb socket

counterclockwise to remove it from the headlamp assembly. 3. Pull the bulb straight out from

the socket.

4. Push the new bulb into the

socket and reinstall the socket into the headlamp assembly by turning it clockwise.

A. Turn Signal Lamp B. Back–Up Lamp To replace one of these lamps: 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on

page 2‑12.

2. Remove fasteners and pull back

the trunk trim.

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Vehicle Care

3. Remove the four plastic wing

5. Turn the bulb socket

nuts retaining the taillamp assembly in place.

counterclockwise to remove it. 6. Pull the old bulb straight out of

4. Pull out the taillamp assembly

the bulb socket.

and disconnect the wiring harness.

A. Back-Up Lamp B. Turn Signal Lamp

7. Push the new bulb straight into

the bulb socket until it clicks.

8. Turn the bulb socket clockwise

to reinstall.

9. Reconnect the wiring harness. 10. Push the taillamp assembly

back into place on the vehicle.

11. Turn the four wing nuts

clockwise to reinstall them.

12. Place the trunk trim to its

original location.

License Plate Lamp The license plate lamps for this vehicle are on the trunk lid. To replace one of these bulbs: 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on

page 2‑12 for more information.

2. Push the end on either of the lamp assemblies (passenger side shown) and then move the lamp assembly down to remove it from the trunk lid.

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3. Turn the bulb socket (A)

counterclockwise to remove it from the lamp assembly (C).

4. Pull the bulb (B) straight out of

the bulb socket.

5. Push the replacement bulb

straight into the bulb socket and turn the bulb socket clockwise to install it into the lamp assembly.

6. Move the lamp assembly into the trunk lid engaging the clip side first.

7. Push on the lamp side opposite the clip until the lamp assembly snaps into place.

Vehicle Care

10-37

Replacement Bulbs

Exterior Lamp

Back-Up Lamp Daytime Running Lamp (Uplevel) Front Turn Signal/ Parking Lamp Headlamp High Beam (Base) Headlamp Low Beam (Base) License Plate Lamp

Rear Turn Signal

Bulb

Number W16WLL

3157K LCP

3757NAK

LCP

H9

H11LL

W5WLL 3757AK

LCP

For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact your dealer.

A. Bulb Socket B. Bulb C. Lamp Assembly

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Vehicle Care

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 the following in the vehicle: . Headlamp Wiring . Windshield Wiper Motor . Power Windows and Other

Power Accessories

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.

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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.

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 10‑39, Instrument Panel Fuse Block on page 10‑42, and Rear Compartment Fuse Block on page 10‑44.

Vehicle Care

10-39

Engine Compartment Fuse Block

To remove the fuse block cover, squeeze the three retaining clips on the cover and lift it straight up. Notice: Spilling liquid on any electrical component on the vehicle may damage it. Always keep the covers on any electrical component.

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Vehicle Care

J-Case Fuses

Usage

26

27

28

41

42
45

Mini Fuses

Antilock Brake System Pump Electric Park Brake Rear Window Defogger Brake Vacuum Pump Cooling Fan K2
Cooling Fan K1

Usage Transmission Control Module Engine Control Module Battery Engine Control Module Ignition Ignition Coils ‐ Even Ignition Coils ‐ Odd

Engine Compartment Fuse Block

The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.

Usage

J-Case Fuses

12

Wiper Starter

J-Case Fuses

Usage

21

22

24

Rear Power Windows Sunroof Front Power Windows

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Mini Fuses

10

11

13

16
17
18

23

29

32

33

34

35

Usage Engine Control Module Post Catalytic Converter Oxygen Sensor Heater Trans Ignition/Fuel System Control Module MAF Airbag Module SBZ Ignition Variable Effort Steering Power Lumbar, Left Body Control Module Heated Seat Antilock Brake System Valves Amplifier

Vehicle Care

10-41

Mini Fuses

Usage

Mini Fuses

Usage

36
37
38
46

47

48

49

50

51
52

53

AFL Ignition Right High Beam Left High Beam Cooling Fan Relay Pre Catalytic Converter Oxygen Sensor Heater Fog Lamps Right High Intensity Discharge Headlamp Left High Intensity Discharge Headlamp Horn Cluster Ignition Inside Rearview Mirror, Rear Vision Camera, Vacuum Pump

54

55

56
60
62
64
65

67

69

70

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Outside Rearview Mirror, Universal Garage Door Opener, Window Switch Windshield Washer Heated Mirror Canister Vent AFL Battery Theft‐Deterrent Horn Fuel System Control Module Regulated Voltage Control Sensor Ultrasonic Parking Assist/Side Blind Zone

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Vehicle Care

Mini Relays

13
15

17

Micro Relays

10

14

Usage Engine Control Module Cooling Fan Cooling Fan Run/Crank Rear Window Defogger

Usage

Starter Wiper Speed Wiper Control Cooling Fan Headlamp Low Beam

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

Pull the door toward you to release it from the hinge.

The instrument panel fuse block is located in the instrument panel, on the driver side of the vehicle. To access the fuses, open the fuse panel door by pulling down at the top. Press in on the sides of the door to release it from the instrument panel.

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Vehicle Care

10-43

Fuses

10

11

12
13

14

15
16

17

Usage Body Control Module 8
Front Heater Ventilation Air Conditioning/Blower Passenger Seat Driver Seat Diagnostic Link Connector Airbag Trunk Heater Ventilation Air Conditioning Controller

The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.

Fuses

Usage

Steering Wheel Controls Backlight Body Control Module 7
Body Control Module 5
Radio OnStar Universal Hands‐Free Phone Power Outlet 1
Power Outlet 2
Body Control Module 1
Body Control Module 4

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

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Vehicle Care

Fuses

18

19

20

21

22

23

Usage Radio, OnStar, Universal Hands‐Free Phone Display Automatic Occupant Sensing Instrument Panel Cluster Discrete Logic Ignition Switch Body Control Module 3

Fuses

24

25

26

Usage Body Control Module 2
Rear Heater Ventilation Air Conditioning/Blower AC/DC Inverter

Relays

Usage

R1
R2
R3

Trunk Relay Not Used Power Outlet Relay

Rear Compartment Fuse Block

The rear compartment fuse block is located on the left side of the trunk behind a cover.

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Vehicle Care

10-45

Mini Fuses

Usage

17
18
19

20

21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30

Not Used PEPS Not Used Rear Sunshade, Ventilated Seats Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used

The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.

Mini Fuses

Usage

Not Used Heated Steering Wheel

Mini Fuses

Usage

12
15
16

Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used

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Vehicle Care

Mini Fuses

Usage

31

32

33

Electronic Suspension Control Rear Seat Infotainment All‐Wheel Drive

J‐Case Fuses

Usage

J‐Case Fuses

13
14
34
35
36
37

Not Used Not Used Not Used PEPS Not Used Not Used

10
11

Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used

Relays

Usage

K1

K2

K3

K4

Not Used Seat Ventilation, Sunshade Heated Steering Wheel Not Used

Usage

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 and a serious crash. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12.

(Continued)

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WARNING (Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

. 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)

. 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 55 km/h (35 mph) on slippery surfaces such as snow, mud, ice, etc. Excessive spinning may cause the tires to explode.

Vehicle Care

10-47

Winter Tires Consider installing winter tires on the vehicle if frequent driving on snow or ice covered roads is expected. All season tires provide good overall performance on most surfaces, but they may not offer the traction or the same level of performance as winter tires on snow or ice covered roads. Winter tires, in general, are designed for increased traction on snow and ice covered roads. 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.

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Vehicle Care

See your dealer for details regarding winter tire availability and proper tire selection. Also, see Buying New Tires on page 10‑64. If using snow tires: . Use tires of the same brand and

tread type on all four wheel positions.

. 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.

Tire Sidewall Labeling Useful information about a tire is molded into its sidewall. The examples below show a typical passenger vehicle tire and a compact spare tire sidewall.

Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire Example

(A) 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, and service description. See the “Tire Size” illustration later in this section for more detail. (B) 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. (C) 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.

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Vehicle Care

10-49

(B) Temporary Use Only: The compact spare tire or temporary use tire has a tread life of approximately 5 000 km (3,000 mi) and should not be driven at speeds over 105 km/h (65 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 10‑85 and If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑70.

(D) 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. (E) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (F) 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 10‑66.

(G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load.

Compact Spare Tire Example

(A) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.

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Vehicle Care

(C) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following the DOT (Department of Transportation) code is 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. (D) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load. (E) 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 10‑54.

(F) 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. (G) 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.

(A) 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 vehicle tire engineered to standards set by the U.S. Tire and Rim Association.

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(B) Tire Width: The three‐digit number indicates the tire section width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. (C) 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 C of the illustration, it would mean that the tire's sidewall is 60 percent as high as it is wide. (D) 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. (E) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches.

(F) 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 psi (pounds per square inch) or kPa (kilopascal). Accessory Weight: The combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples of optional accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air conditioning.

Vehicle Care

10-51

Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire's height to its width. Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords that is located 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 10‑54.

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Vehicle Care

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. GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12.

GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. 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 lbs). See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions.

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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. Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire inflation pressure as shown on the tire placard. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑54 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12.

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.

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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 10‑63. 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 10‑66.

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Vehicle Care

Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of designated seating positions multiplied by 68 kg (150 lbs) plus the rated cargo load. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. 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 9‑12.

Tire Pressure Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively. Notice: Neither tire underinflation nor overinflation is good. Underinflated tires, or tires that do not have enough air, can result in:

. Tire overloading and

over-heating which could lead to a blowout.

. Premature or

irregular wear. . Poor handling. . Reduced fuel economy.

Overinflated tires, or tires that have too much air, can result in:

. Unusual wear. . Poor handling. . Rough ride. . Needless damage from

road hazards.

A vehicle-specific Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the vehicle. This label shows the vehicle's original equipment tires and the correct inflation pressures for the tires when they are cold. The recommended cold tire inflation pressure, shown on the label, is the minimum amount of air pressure needed to support the vehicle's maximum load carrying capacity.

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For additional information regarding how much weight the vehicle can carry, and an example of the Tire and Loading Information label, see Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. How you load the vehicle 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 to check the compact spare tire, if the vehicle has one. The compact spare should be at 420 kPa (60 psi). For additional information regarding the compact spare tire, seeCompact Spare Tire on page 10‑85.

How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gauge to check tire pressure. You cannot tell if the tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they are underinflated. Check the tire's inflation pressure when the tires are cold. Cold means the vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1.6 km (1 mi). Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem. Press the tire gauge firmly onto the valve to get a pressure measurement.

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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 you reach the recommended amount. If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the tire valve. Re‐check the tire pressure with the tire gauge. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.

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Vehicle Care

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.

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 10‑57 for additional information.

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Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Industry Canada See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑20 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.

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 transmits 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 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 loading information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. A message to check the pressure in a specific tire displays in the Driver Information Center (DIC). The low tire pressure warning light and the DIC warning message come on at each ignition cycle until the tires are inflated to the correct inflation pressure. Using the DIC, tire pressure levels can be viewed.

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For additional information and details about the DIC operation and displays see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑25. 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 air pressure is getting low and needs to be inflated to the proper pressure. A Tire and Loading Information label, attached to your vehicle, 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 9‑12, for an example of the Tire and Loading Information label and its location. Also see Tire Pressure on page 10‑54.

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Vehicle Care

The TPMS can warn about a low tire pressure condition but it does not replace normal tire maintenance. See Tire Inspection on page 10‑61, Tire Rotation on page 10‑61 and Tires on page 10‑46. Notice: Tire sealant materials are not all the same. A non-approved tire sealant could damage the TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor damage caused by using an incorrect tire sealant is not covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use only the GM-approved tire sealant available through your dealer or included in the vehicle. Factory-installed Tire Inflator Kits use a GM approved liquid tire sealant. Using non-approved tire sealants could damage the TPMS sensors. See Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit on page 10‑72 for information regarding the inflator kit materials and instructions.

TPMS Malfunction Light and Message The TPMS will not function properly if one or more of the TPMS sensors are missing or inoperable. When the system detects a malfunction, the low tire warning light flashes for about one minute and then stays on for the remainder of the ignition cycle. A DIC warning message also displays. The malfunction light and DIC warning message come on at each ignition cycle until the problem is corrected. Some of the conditions that can cause these to come on are: . One of the road tires has been

replaced with the spare tire. The spare tire does not have a TPMS sensor. The malfunction light and DIC message should go off after the road tire is replaced and the sensor matching process is performed successfully. See “TPMS Sensor Matching Process” later in this section.

The TPMS sensor matching process was not done or not completed successfully after rotating the tires. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off after successfully completing the sensor matching process. See "TPMS Sensor Matching Process" later in this section. . One or more TPMS sensors

are missing or damaged. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off when the TPMS sensors are installed and the sensor matching process is performed successfully. See your dealer for service.

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. Replacement tires or wheels do not match the original equipment tires or wheels. Tires and wheels other than those recommended could prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. See Buying New Tires on page 10‑64.

. Operating electronic devices or being near facilities using radio wave frequencies similar to the TPMS could cause the TPMS sensors to malfunction.

If the TPMS is not functioning properly it cannot detect or signal a low tire condition. See your dealer for service if the TPMS malfunction light and DIC message comes on and stays on.

TPMS Sensor Matching Process Each TPMS sensor has a unique identification code. The identification code needs to be matched to a new tire/wheel position after rotating the vehicle’s tires or replacing one or more of the TPMS sensors. The TPMS sensor matching process should also be performed after replacing a spare tire with a road tire containing the TPMS sensor. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off at the next ignition cycle. The sensors are matched to the tire/wheel positions, using a TPMS relearn tool, in the following order: driver side front tire, passenger side front tire, passenger side rear tire, and driver side rear. See your dealer for service or to purchase a relearn tool.

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There are two minutes to match the first tire/wheel position, and five minutes overall to match all four tire/wheel positions. If it takes longer, the matching process stops and must be restarted. The TPMS sensor matching process is: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with

the engine off.

3. Use the MENU button to select

the Vehicle Information Menu in the Driver Information Center (DIC).