2007 Chevrolet Avalanche Owners Manual

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airbag systems. Improper service can mean that an airbag system will not work properly. See your dealer for service. 79 The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger’s seat and safety belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the passenger’s airbag should be enabled (may inﬂate) or not. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child seat, and an older child riding in a booster seat. Your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate a rear-facing child restraint. A label on your sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. Passenger Sensing System Your vehicle has a passenger sensing system. The passenger airbag status indicator on the overhead console will be visible when you turn your ignition key to RUN or START. The words ON and OFF or the symbol for on and off, will be visible during the system check. When the system check is complete, either the word ON or the word OFF, or the symbol for on or the symbol for off will be visible. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 243. United States Canada The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger’s frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver’s airbags are not part of the passenger sensing system. 80 {CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s airbag inﬂates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inﬂating airbag. Be sure the airbag is off before using a rear-facing child restraint in the passenger’s position. Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one can CAUTION: (Continued) CAUTION: (Continued) guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. We recommend that rear-facing child restraints be secured in the rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you need to secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. 81 The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger’s airbag if: (cid:127) (cid:127) the right front passenger seat is unoccupied the system determines that an infant is present in a rear-facing infant seat the system determines that a small child is present in a forward-facing child restraint the system determines that a small child is present in a booster seat (cid:127) (cid:127) (cid:127) a right front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of time the right front passenger seat is occupied by a smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints (cid:127) (cid:127) or if there is a critical problem with the airbag system or the passenger sensing system. 82 When the passenger sensing system has turned off the passenger’s airbag, the off indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off. If a child restraint has been installed and the on indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the child restraint following the child restraint manufacturer’s directions and refer to Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position on page 66. If after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to make sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not pressing the child restraint into the seat cushion. If this happens, slightly recline the vehicle’s seatback and adjust the seat cushion if possible. Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens, adjust the head restraint. If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle and check with your dealer. If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front passenger’s seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be because that person is not sitting properly in the seat. If this happens, turn the vehicle off and ask the person to place the seatback in the fully upright position, then sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion, with the person’s legs comfortably extended. The passenger sensing system is designed to enable (may inﬂate) the right front passenger’s airbag anytime the system senses that a person of adult size is sitting properly in the right front passenger’s seat. When the passenger sensing system has allowed the airbag to be enabled, the on indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is active. For some children who have outgrown child restraints and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the right front passenger’s airbag, depending upon the person’s seating posture and body build. Everyone in your vehicle who has outgrown child restraints should wear a safety belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag for that person. 83 Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in this position for about two minutes. This will allow the system to detect that person and then enable the passenger’s airbag. 84 {CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced promptly, because an adult-size person sitting in the right front passenger’s seat may not have the protection of the frontal airbag. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 242 for more on this, including important safety information. Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates. You may want to consider not using seat covers or other aftermarket equipment if your vehicle has the passenger sensing system. See Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 86 for more information about modiﬁcations that can affect how the system operates. {CAUTION: {CAUTION: Stowing of articles under the passenger’s seat or between the passenger’s seat cushion and seatback may interfere with the proper operation of the passenger sensing system. Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Airbags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in several places around your vehicle. You do not want the system to inﬂate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 610. For up to 10 seconds after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still inﬂate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an airbag when it inﬂates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are probably part of the airbag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualiﬁed to do so. The airbag system does not need regular maintenance. 85 Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Q: Is there anything I might add to the front or sides of the vehicle that could keep the airbags from working properly? A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s frame, bumper system, height, front end or side sheet metal, they may keep the airbag system from working properly. Also, the airbag system may not work properly if you relocate any of the airbag sensors. If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 592. Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my vehicle modiﬁed. How can I ﬁnd out whether this will affect my airbag system? A: Changing or moving any parts of the front seats, safety belts, the airbag sensing and diagnostic module, rollover sensor module, instrument panel, steering wheel, ceiling headliner, ceiling and pillar garnish trim, roof-mounted rollover airbag modules, or airbag wiring can affect the operation of the airbag system. If you have questions, call Customer Assistance. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 592. 86 If you damage the covering for the Notice: driver’s or the right front passenger’s airbag, or the side impact airbag covering on the ceiling near the side windows, the airbag may not work properly. You may have to replace the airbag module in the steering wheel, both the airbag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s airbag, or side impact airbag module and ceiling covering for roof-mounted rollover airbags (if equipped). Do not open or break the airbag coverings. Restraint System Check Checking the Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Keep safety belts clean and dry. See Care of Safety Belts on page 550 for more information. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Also look for any opened or broken airbag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. The airbag system does not need regular maintenance. 87 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash {CAUTION: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible. If you have had a crash, do you need new belts or LATCH system parts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new parts. If the LATCH system was being used during a more severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts. 88 If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system was not being used at the time of the collision. If an airbag inﬂates, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier in this section. If the frontal airbags inﬂate you will also need to replace the driver and front passenger’s safety belt retractor assembly. Be sure to do so. Then the new retractor assembly will be there to help protect you in a collision. After a crash you may need to replace the driver and front passenger’s safety belt retractor assemblies, even if the frontal airbags have not deployed. The driver and front passenger’s safety belt retractor assemblies contain the safety belt pretensioners. Have your safety belt pretensioners checked if your vehicle has been in a collision, or if your airbag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle or while you are driving. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 242. Section 2 Features and Controls Keys .............................................................. 91 Remote Keyless Entry System .................... 92 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation .... 93 Doors and Locks ........................................ 100 Door Locks ................................................ 100 Power Door Locks ..................................... 101 Delayed Locking ........................................ 101 Programmable Automatic Door Locks ........ 102 Rear Door Security Locks ......................... 102 Lockout Protection ..................................... 103 Midgate® ................................................... 104 Tailgate ..................................................... 113 Power Running Boards .............................. 113 Windows ...................................................... 114 Power Windows ........................................ 115 Sun Visors ................................................ 116 Theft-Deterrent Systems ............................. 116 Content Theft-Deterrent ............................. 117 PASS-Key® III+ ......................................... 119 PASS-Key® III+ Operation ......................... 120 Starting and Operating Your Vehicle ......... 122 New Vehicle Break-In ................................ 122 Ignition Positions ....................................... 123 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ............. 124 Starting the Engine .................................... 124 Adjustable Throttle and Brake Pedal .......... 126 Engine Coolant Heater .............................. 126 Active Fuel Management™ ........................ 127 Automatic Transmission Operation ............. 128 Tow/Haul Mode ......................................... 131 Four-Wheel Drive ...................................... 132 Parking Brake ........................................... 138 Shifting Into Park (P) ................................. 139 Shifting Out of Park (P) ............................. 141 Parking Over Things That Burn ................. 142 Engine Exhaust ......................................... 143 Running the Engine While Parked ............. 144 89 Section 2 Features and Controls Mirrors ......................................................... 145 Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with OnStar®, Compass and Temperature Display ................................................... 145 Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass and Temperature Display ........ 148 Outside Power Mirrors ............................... 152 Outside Power Foldaway Mirrors ............... 153 OnStar® System .......................................... 156 Universal Home Remote System ................ 158 Universal Home Remote System (With Three Round LED) ....................... 158 Universal Home Remote System (With One Triangular LED) ..................... 159 Universal Home Remote System Operation (With Three Round LED) ....... 160 Universal Home Remote System Operation (With One Triangular LED) ..... 165 Storage Areas ............................................. 169 Glove Box ................................................. 169 Cupholder(s) .............................................. 169 Center Overhead Console ......................... 169 Front Armrest Storage Area ....................... 170 Center Console Storage Area .................... 170 Luggage Carrier ........................................ 170 Rear Storage Area .................................... 171 Cargo Cover Panels .................................. 172 All-Weather Cargo Area ............................. 185 Top-Box Storage ....................................... 190 Tonneau Cover ......................................... 191 Sunroof ....................................................... 197 90 Keys {CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The children or others could be badly injured or even killed. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children. 91 Your vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition, all door locks, tailgate, and side storage boxes. If you ever lose your keys, your dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining replacements. In an emergency contact roadside assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 598 for more information. 92 Remote Keyless Entry System Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modiﬁcations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. At times you may notice a decrease in operating range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: (cid:127) Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. (cid:127) Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again. (cid:127) Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See “Battery Replacement” under Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on page 93. If you are still having trouble, see your dealer or a qualiﬁed technician for service. (cid:127) Remote Keyless Entry System Operation The vehicle’s doors can be locked and unlocked from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 65 feet (20 m) away with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. If your vehicle has the remote start feature you can also start your vehicle with the RKE transmitter. The RKE transmitter, with the remote start button, provides an increased operating range of 195 feet (60 m) away. However, the operating range may be less while the vehicle is running. As a result, you may need to be closer to your vehicle to turn it off than you were to start it. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter. See Remote Keyless Entry System on page 92. 93 The following functions may be available if your vehicle has the remote keyless entry system: With Remote Start (Without Remote Start Similar) /(Remote Vehicle Start): If your vehicle has this feature, it may be started from outside the vehicle using the RKE transmitter. See “Remote Vehicle Start” following for more detailed information. 94 Q(Lock): Press the lock button to lock all the doors, including the tailgate. If enabled through the Driver Information Center (DIC), the parking lamps will ﬂash once to indicate locking has occurred. If enabled through the DIC, the horn will chirp when the lock button is pressed again within ﬁve seconds of the previous press of the lock button. See DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 279 for additional information. Pressing the lock button may arm the content theft-deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 117. " (Unlock): Press the unlock button to unlock the driver’s door. If the button is pressed again within ﬁve seconds, all remaining doors, including the tailgate, will unlock. The interior lamps will come on and stay on for 20 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. If enabled through the DIC, the parking lamps will ﬂash once to indicate unlocking has occurred. See DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 279. Pressing the unlock button on the RKE transmitter will disarm the content theft-deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 117. L(Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): Press and release this button to locate your vehicle. The turn signal lamps will ﬂash and the horn will sound three times. Press and hold this button for more than two seconds to activate the panic alarm. The turn signal lamps will ﬂash and the horn will sound repeatedly for 30 seconds. The alarm will turn off when the ignition is moved to RUN or the alarm button is pressed again. The ignition must be in OFF for the panic alarm to work. Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each RKE transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any additional transmitters so they can also be re-coded to match the new transmitter. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. The vehicle can have a maximum of eight transmitters matched to it. See “Relearn Remote Key” under DIC Operation and Displays (With DIC Buttons) on page 258 or DIC Operation and Displays (Without DIC Buttons) on page 265 for instructions on how to match RKE transmitters to your vehicle. 95 Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your RKE transmitter should last about four years. The battery is weak if the transmitter will not work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it is probably time to change the battery. The REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY message in the vehicle’s DIC will display if the RKE transmitter battery is low. See “REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 269 for additional information. Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter. 96 To replace the battery in the RKE transmitter do the following: 1. Use a ﬂat object with a thin edge into the notch, located below the vehicle locator/panic alarm button, and separate the bottom half from the top half of the transmitter. 2. Remove the old battery, but do not use a metal object to do this. 3. Slide the new battery into the transmitter with the positive side of the battery facing down. Use a type CR2032 battery, or equivalent type. Make sure the cover is on tightly, so water will not get in. 4. Snap the front and the back of the transmitter together. 5. Test the operation of the transmitter with the vehicle. Remote Vehicle Start Your vehicle may have a remote starting feature. This feature allows you to start the engine from outside of the vehicle. It may also start up the vehicle’s heating or air conditioning systems and rear window defogger. Normal operation of the system will return after the key is turned to the RUN position. If your vehicle has an automatic climate control system, during remote start, the climate control system will default to a heating mode during colder outside temperatures and a cooling mode during warmer outside temperatures. If your vehicle does not have an automatic climate control system, during remote start the climate control system will turn on at the setting the vehicle was set to when the vehicle was last turned off. If your vehicle has heated seats, they will turn on during colder outside temperatures and will shut off when the key is turned to RUN. Laws in some communities may restrict the use of remote starters. For example, some laws may require a person using the remote start to have the vehicle in view when doing so. Check local regulations for any requirements on remote starting of vehicles. Do not use the remote start feature if your vehicle is low on fuel. Your vehicle may run out of fuel. The RKE transmitter with the remote start button, provides an increased range of operation. However, the range may be less while the vehicle is running. As a result, you may need to be closer to your vehicle to turn it off, than you were to turn it on. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter, see Remote Keyless Entry System on page 92 for additional information. 97 /(Remote Start): Press and release the lock button and then press and hold the remote start button to start the vehicle. To start the vehicle using the remote start feature, do the following: 1. Aim the transmitter at the vehicle. 2. Press and release the transmitter’s lock button, then immediately press and hold the transmitter’s remote start button until the turn signal lights ﬂash. If you cannot see the vehicle’s lights, press and hold the remote start button for at least four seconds. The vehicle’s doors will lock. Pressing the remote start button again after the vehicle has started will turn off the ignition. When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on while the vehicle is running. 3. If it is your ﬁrst remote start since last driving, repeat these steps while the engine is still running for a 10 minute time extension. Remote start can be extended one time. 98 When you enter the vehicle during a remote start, and the engine is still running, turn the key to the RUN position to drive the vehicle. If the vehicle is left running it will automatically shut off after 10 minutes unless a time extension has been done. To manually shut off a remote start, do any of the following: (cid:127) Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press the remote start button until the parking lamps turn off. (cid:127) Turn on the hazards warning ﬂashers. (cid:127) Turn the ignition switch on and then off. The vehicle can be remote started two separate times between driving sequences. The engine will run for 10 minutes after each remote start. Or, you can extend the engine run time by another 10 minutes within the ﬁrst 10 minute remote start time frame, and before the engine stops. For example, if the lock button and then the remote start buttons are pressed again after the vehicle has been running for ﬁve minutes, 10 minutes are added, allowing the engine to run for 15 minutes. Remote Start Ready If your vehicle does not have the remote vehicle start feature, it may have the remote start ready feature. This feature allows your dealer to add the manufacturer’s remote vehicle start feature. If your vehicle has the remote start ready feature, your RKE transmitter will have extended range that will allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle from approximately 197 feet (60 m) away. See your dealer if you would like to add the manufacturer’s remote vehicle start feature to your vehicle. The additional ten minutes are considered a second remote vehicle start. Once two remote starts, or a single remote start with one time extension has been done, the vehicle must be started with the key. After the key is removed from the ignition, the vehicle can be remote started again. The vehicle cannot be remote started if the key is in the ignition, the hood is not closed, or if there is an emission control system malfunction. Also, the engine will turn off during a remote vehicle start if the coolant temperature gets too high or if the oil pressure gets low. Vehicles that have the remote vehicle start feature are shipped from the factory with the remote vehicle start system enabled. The system may be enabled or disabled through the DIC. See “REMOTE START” under DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 279 for additional information. 99 Doors and Locks Door Locks {CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. (cid:127) Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. CAUTION: (Continued) 100 CAUTION: (Continued) (cid:127) Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle whenever you leave it. (cid:127) Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening. There are several ways to lock and unlock the doors. To lock or unlock the door from the outside, use the remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter or the key. To lock or unlock the door from the inside, slide the manual lever up or down, or use the power door locks switch. Power Door Locks The power door lock switches are located on the driver’s and front passenger’s armrests. Q(Lock): Remove the ignition key and press the lock symbol to lock all of the doors, including the tailgate. If the delayed locking feature is on, the doors will not lock until ﬁve seconds after the last door is closed. Press the lock symbol twice to override this feature and lock all of the doors immediately. See Delayed Locking on page 101 for more information. K(Unlock): To unlock the doors, press the unlock symbol. Delayed Locking When locking the doors with the power lock switch or the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and a door or the liftgate is open, the doors will lock ﬁve seconds after the last door is closed. You will hear three chimes to signal that the delayed locking feature is in use. Pressing the power lock switch or the lock button on the RKE transmitter twice will override the delayed locking feature and immediately lock all the doors. You can turn the delayed locking feature off or back on again by doing the following: 1. Press and hold the power door lock switch in the lock position. 2. Press unlock twice on the RKE transmitter. This feature will not operate if the key is in the ignition. You can also program this feature using the Driver Information Center (DIC). See “Door Lock Delay” under DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 279. 101 Programmable Automatic Door Locks Your vehicle has an automatic lock/unlock feature which enables you to program the vehicle’s power door locks. You can program this feature through the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 279 for more information on DIC programming. Rear Door Security Locks Your vehicle has rear door security locks. These prevent passengers from opening the rear doors from the inside. The rear door security locks are located on the inside edge of each rear door. You must open the rear doors to access them. The label depicting lock and unlock positions is located near the lock. Security Lock Label shown To set the locks, do the following: 1. Insert the key into the security lock slot and turn it so the slot is in the horizontal position. 2. Close the door. 102 When you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on, do the following: 1. Unlock the door using the remote keyless entry transmitter, if the vehicle has one, the power door lock switch, or by lifting the rear door manual lock. 2. Open the door from the outside. To cancel the rear door security lock, do the following: 1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside. 2. Insert the key into the security lock slot and turn it so the slot is in the vertical position. Lockout Protection This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver’s door will unlock. 103 Midgate® {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the cargo area covered and the tailgate and the Midgate® open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can not see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the cargo covers on and the tailgate and Midgate® open or if electrical wiring or other cable CAUTION: (Continued) 104 CAUTION: (Continued) connections must pass through the seal between the body and the Midgate®: (cid:127) Make sure all windows are shut. (cid:127) Turn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed on the setting that brings in outside air. This will force outside air into your vehicle. See Dual Automatic Climate Control System on page 230. (cid:127) If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way. See Engine Exhaust on page 143. Midgate® Operation Your vehicle is equipped with a Midgate® and a removable rear glass panel. The Midgate® allows you to extend the length of your vehicle’s cargo area. The following are the main components of the Midgate® system: Rear Glass Removal and Storage {CAUTION: If the removable rear glass is not stored properly, it could be thrown about the vehicle in a crash or sudden maneuver. People in the vehicle could be injured. Whenever you store the rear glass in the vehicle, always be sure that it is stored securely in the Midgate® storage pocket. Do not remove the rear glass when the rear defroster is on. If you remove the rear glass with the rear defroster on, you may see a discharge spark coming from the latch area. 105 A. Latch Levers B. Grab Handles C. Glass-Catch Release Button D. Glass Lock Knobs E. Window Retaining Tabs F. Midgate® Release Handle G. Window Alignment Arrows To remove the rear glass do the following: 1. Fold the rear seats. See Rear Seat Operation on page 18 for more information. The front seats may have to be moved forward slightly to allow the rear seats to fold completely. Although the rear glass can be removed without folding the rear seats, you will not be able to access the rear glass storage pocket. Be sure to fold the seats before removing the rear glass. 2. Squeeze and pull down the latch levers (A), located near the upper corners of the rear glass, to unlatch. Once unlatched, the glass-catch release button (C) will catch the rear glass and prevent it from falling forward. 3. While holding the rear glass in place, press the glass-catch release button (C) and pull the top of the rear glass toward you using the grab handle(s) (B) located at the top of the rear glass. 106 4. With the rear glass tilted toward you, lift it out from the lower window frame channel. Use the grab handles to assist you in removing the rear glass. 5. Load the rear glass into the storage pocket in the Midgate®, guiding the lower edge of the rear glass behind the three rear glass retaining tabs (E). Hold the rear glass ﬂat against the storage pocket, with grab handles facing you, until the next step. 107 6. Turn both glass lock knobs (D), located at both top corners of the storage pocket, to the locked position. Push in on the corner of the rear glass to allow the lock knob to engage more easily. Once both glass lock knobs are in the locked position, the rear glass is securely stored. 7. Push both latch levers up to the locked position. You should hear a click when each latch lever locks correctly. The rear seats can be returned to the normal position when the rear glass is out and stored properly in the storage pocket. 108 Reinstalling the Rear Glass To reinstall the rear glass, do the following: 1. Squeeze and pull down the latch levers (A), located near the upper corners of the rear glass, to unlatch. 3. Pull the rear glass out from the storage pocket using the grab handles. 4. With the rear glass tilted at an angle, place the bottom edge in the lower channel of the window frame. 2. Hold the rear glass in place with one hand and turn the glass lock knobs, located at both top corners of the glass storage pocket, to the unlocked position. 109 Be sure to align the rear glass side-to-side using the alignment arrows (G). 5. Apply a ﬁrm downward pressure and then push the rear glass ﬂat against the window frame. Use the grab handles at the top of the rear glass to assist you. 6. Push the rear glass ﬂat against the window frame and push each latch lever up until it locks. You should hear a click when each latch lever locks correctly. Lowering the Midgate® with the Rear Glass in Place The Midgate® can be lowered to allow the cargo area of your vehicle to extend into the cab. The rear glass can be either installed in its normal position, or it can be removed and stored in the rear glass storage pocket. 110 To lower the Midgate®, do the following: 1. Fold the rear seats. The front seats might have to be moved forward slightly to allow the rear seats to fold. See Rear Seat Operation on page 18 for more information. 3. Lower the Midgate® until it is ﬂat. Rear Glass in Normal Position 2. Standing outside of the vehicle, hold the Midgate® securely so it does not fall forward. Turn the Midgate® handle clockwise and pull the Midgate® toward you. 111 Lowering the Midgate® with the Rear Glass in the Storage Pocket Rear Glass Stored in Glass Storage Pocket Midgate® Lowered with Crossbar Attached This procedure works the same as the procedure described previously, but when you lower the Midgate® with the rear glass in the stored position, you will notice that the entire crossbar will lower with the Midgate®. This is completely normal; however, since the crossbar lowers with the Midgate®, it will be heavier. As you lower the Midgate® be ready for the extra weight and do not let the Midgate® fall as you lower it. 112 Raising the Midgate® To return the Midgate® to its normal position, raise the Midgate® up with a ﬁrm swinging motion until it latches into place securely. This will help to ensure that the Midgate® closes with enough force to engage the latches. If the rear glass is removed and you would like to put it back, do so using the instructions given previously. Tailgate Use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or power door lock switch to lock and unlock the tailgate. Open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle while pulling the tailgate toward you. To shut the tailgate, push it ﬁrmly upward until it latches. Push and pull on the tailgate to be sure it is latched securely. Tailgate Removal The tailgate is not to be removed. This may cause damage to electrical connector resulting in loss of lock/unlock and rear vision camera function. Power Running Boards Your vehicle may have power running boards. These make getting into and out of the vehicle easier. The power running boards activate when either door on the driver’s or passenger’s side is opened or closed. They automatically extend from beneath the vehicle on the side in which the door has been opened. Once the door is closed, the running boards will automatically move back under the vehicle. The vehicle must not be moving for the running boards to extend or retract. The switch used to disable the power running boards is located on the center console below the climate control system. The running boards cannot be disabled in the extended position. 113 Windows {CAUTION: Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. 114 Express-Down Windows The driver and front passenger windows have an express-down feature that allows the windows to be lowered without holding the switch. Press down fully on the window switch, then release, to activate the express-down mode. The express-down mode can be canceled at any time by pulling up on the switch. Window Lockout o(Window Lockout): The window lockout switch is located with the power window switches on the driver’s door armrest. This feature prevents the rear passenger windows from operating, except from the driver’s position. Press the switch to turn the lockout feature on or off. An indicator light will come on to show the lockout feature is on. Power Windows The power window controls are located on each of the side doors. Driver’s Side shown The driver’s door also has switches that control the passenger and rear windows. The power windows work when the ignition has been turned to ACCESSORY or RUN or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 124. Press the switch to lower the window. Pull up on the front edge of the switch to raise the window. 115 Sun Visors Sun Visors with Slide Rod Your vehicle may have this feature. Pull the sun visor down to block glare. Detach the sun visor from the center mount and slide it along the rod from side-to-side to cover the driver or passenger side of the front window. Swing the sun visor to the side to cover the side window. It can also be moved along the rod from side-to-side in this position. Sun Visors with Fixed Rod and Pull-out Extension Your vehicle may have this feature. Pull the sun visor down to block glare. Pull the sun visor extender out for additional coverage. Detach the sun visor from the center mount and swing it to the side to cover the side window. Lighted Visor Vanity Mirror Your vehicle has lighted visor vanity mirrors on both the driver’s and passenger’s sun visors. Pull the sun visor down and lift the mirror cover to turn the lamps on. Theft-Deterrent Systems Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. 116 Content Theft-Deterrent Your vehicle has a content theft-deterrent alarm system. To activate the theft-deterrent system, do the following: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. The security light will come on to inform the driver the system is arming. If a door is open when the doors are locked, the security light will ﬂash. 3. Close all doors. The security light should go off after about 30 seconds. The alarm is not armed until the security light goes off. If the delayed locking feature is turned on, the theft-deterrent system will not start the arming process until the last door is closed and the delay timer has expired. See Delayed Locking on page 101. The content theft deterrent system does not sense if the midgate is open or ajar, therefore, vehicle contents may not be protected if the midgate is left open or ajar. If a locked door is opened without the key or the RKE transmitter, a ten second pre-alarm will occur. The horn will chirp and the lights will ﬂash. If the door is not unlocked using the key or by pressing the unlock button on the RKE transmitter during the ten second pre-alarm, the alarm will go off. The headlamps and parking lamps will ﬂash for two minutes, and the horn will sound for 30 seconds, then will turn off to save the battery power. You can choose different feedback options for the alarm. See DIC Vehicle Customization (With DIC Buttons) on page 279. 117 Remember, the theft-deterrent system will not activate if you lock the doors with the vehicle’s key or use the manual door lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock switch while the door is open, or when you use the RKE transmitter. You should also remember that you can start your vehicle with the correct ignition key if the alarm has been set off. Here is how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident: (cid:127) If you do not want to activate the theft-deterrent system, the vehicle should be locked with the door key after the doors are closed. (cid:127) Always unlock a door with a key, or use the RKE transmitter. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm. If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any door with the key. You can also turn off the alarm by pressing unlock on the RKE transmitter. The alarm will not stop if you try to unlock a door any other way. Testing the Alarm The alarm can be tested by following these steps: 1. From inside the vehicle, lower the driver’s window and open the driver’s door. 2. Activate the system by locking the doors with the power door lock switch while the door is open, or with the RKE transmitter. 3. Get out of the vehicle, close the door and wait for the security light to go out. 4. Then reach in through the window, unlock the door with the manual door lock and open the door. This should set off the alarm. While the alarm is set, the power door unlock switch is not operational. If the alarm does not sound when it should but the headlamps ﬂash, check to see if the horn works. The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse, see Instrument Panel Fuse Block on page 558 and Underhood Fuse Block on page 561. If the alarm does not sound or the headlamps do not ﬂash, the vehicle should be serviced by your dealer. 118 PASS-Key® III+ The PASS-Key® III+ system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modiﬁcations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. PASS-Key® III+ uses a radio frequency transponder in the key that matches a decoder in your vehicle. 119 PASS-Key® III+ Operation Your vehicle has PASS-Key® III+ (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key® III+ is a passive theft-deterrent system. This means you do not have to do anything special to arm or disarm the system. It works when you transition the key to RUN, ACCESSORY or START from the OFF position. When the PASS-Key® III+ system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it prevents the vehicle from starting. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start the vehicle will be discouraged because of the high number of electrical key codes. If the engine does not start and the security light on the instrument panel comes on when trying to start the vehicle, the key may have a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off and try again. If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse, see Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 558. If the engine still does not start with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the ﬁrst key may be faulty. See your dealer who can service the PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made. In an emergency, contact Roadside Assistance. It is possible for the PASS-Key® III+ decoder to “learn” the transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to nine additional keys may be programmed for the vehicle. The following procedure is for programming additional keys only. If all the currently programmed keys are lost or do not operate, you must see your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to have keys made and programmed to the system. See your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to get a new key blank that is cut exactly as the ignition key that operates the system. 120 To program the new additional key do the following: 1. Verify that the new key has a 1 stamped on it. 2. Insert the original, already programmed, key in the ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer for service. 3. After the engine has started, turn the key to OFF, and remove the key. 4. Insert the new key to be programmed and turn it to the RUN position within ﬁve seconds of removing the original key. 5. The security light will turn off once the key has been programmed. 6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 if additional keys are to be programmed. If you are driving and the security light comes on and stays on, you may be able to restart your engine. Your PASS-Key® III+ system, however, may not be working properly and must be serviced by your dealer. If you lose or damage your PASS-Key® III+ key, see your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made. 121 Starting and Operating Your Vehicle New Vehicle Break-In Notice: Your vehicle does not need an elaborate break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: (cid:127) Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the ﬁrst 500 miles (805 km). (cid:127) Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or slow, for the ﬁrst 500 miles (805 km). Do not make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to brake, or slow, the vehicle. (cid:127) Avoid making hard stops for the ﬁrst 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. (cid:127) Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See Towing a Trailer on page 421 for the trailer towing capabilities of your vehicle and more information. Following break-in, engine speed and load can be gradually increased. 122 Ignition Positions Use the key to turn the ignition switch to four different positions. A (LOCK): This position locks the ignition and transmission. It is a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove the key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. Notice: Using a tool to force the key from the ignition switch could cause damage or break the key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with your hand. Make sure the key is all the way in. If it is, turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service. B (ACCESSORY): This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. Notice: Lengthy operation of features such as the radio in the accessory ignition position and the RUN position may drain the battery and prevent your vehicle from starting. Do not operate your vehicle in the accessory ignition position for a long period of time. C (RUN): This is the position for driving. It is the position the switch returns to after the engine starts, and you release the key. D (START): This position starts the engine. 123 Key In the Ignition Never leave your vehicle with the keys inside, as it is an easy target for joy riders or thieves. If you leave the key in the ignition and park your vehicle, a chime will sound, when you open the driver’s door. Always remember to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. This will lock your ignition and transaxle. Also, always remember to lock the doors. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) Your vehicle has a Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature which will allow certain features on your vehicle to continue to work up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to LOCK. The radio, power windows, if the vehicle has a sunroof and the OnStar® System, will work when the ignition key is in RUN or ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from RUN to LOCK, these features will continue to work for up to 10 minutes or until a door is opened. 124 Starting the Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in any other position — that is a safety feature. To restart when you are already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Notice: Do not try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped. 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts. Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking System. This feature assists in starting the engine and protects the electrical system. If the ignition key is turned to the START, and then released when the engine begins cranking, the engine will continue cranking until the vehicle starts or until it exceeds the maximum cranking time allowed, approximately 15 seconds to prevent cranking motor damage. To prevent gear damage, this system also prevents cranking if the engine is already running. The engine cranking can be stopped by turning the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY or LOCK. Notice: Cranking the engine for long periods of time, by returning the key to the START position immediately after cranking has ended, can overheat and damage the cranking motor and drain the battery. Waiting about 15 seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down, will prevent damage due to overheating. 2. If the engine does not start within 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way to the ﬂoor, while you hold the ignition key in START. When the engine starts, let go of the key and let up on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds between each try. When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0°F or −18°C), do this: 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START and hold it there up to 15 seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key. 2. If your engine still will not start, or starts but then stops, it could be ﬂooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the ﬂoor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key and accelerator. If the vehicle starts brieﬂy but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for ﬁve or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. Notice: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you do not, your engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by your vehicle’s warranty. 125 Adjustable Throttle and Brake Pedal If your vehicle has this feature, you can change the position of the throttle and brake pedals. This feature is designed for shorter drivers, since the pedals cannot move farther away from the standard position, but can move toward the driver for better pedal reach. The switch used to adjust the pedals is located on the center console below the climate control system. Press the arrow at the bottom of the switch to move the pedals closer to your body. Press the arrow at the top of the switch to move the pedals away from your body. 126 No adjustment to the pedals can be made when the vehicle is in REVERSE (R) or while using the cruise control. Your vehicle has a memory function which allows pedal settings to be saved and recalled. See Memory Seat, Mirrors, and Pedals on page 12 for more information. Engine Coolant Heater Your vehicle may have an engine coolant heater. In very cold weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You will get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not required. Your vehicle may also have an internal thermostat in the plug end of the cord. This will prevent operation of the engine coolant heater when the temperature is at or above 0°F (−18°C) as noted on the cord. To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The cord is located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, near the power steering ﬂuid reservoir. 3. Plug the cord into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. {CAUTION: Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a ﬁre. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps. 4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you do not, it could be damaged. How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you will be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area. Active Fuel Management™ Your vehicle’s V8 engine may have Active Fuel Management™. This system allows the engine to operate on either all or half of its cylinders, depending on the driving conditions. When less power is required, such as cruising at a constant vehicle speed, the system will operate in the half cylinder mode, allowing your vehicle to achieve better fuel economy. When greater power demands are required, such as accelerating from a stop, passing, or merging onto a freeway, the system will maintain full-cylinder operation. 127 Your vehicle has an Active Fuel Management™ indicator. For more information on using this display see DIC Operation and Displays (With DIC Buttons) on page 258 or DIC Operation and Displays (Without DIC Buttons) on page 265. Automatic Transmission Operation There are several different positions for the shift lever. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission with an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument panel cluster. This display will show the position anytime the shift lever is moved out of PARK (P). PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It is the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle cannot move easily. 128 {CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 139. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 421. {CAUTION: If you have four-wheel drive, your vehicle will be free to roll — even if your shift lever is in PARK (P) — if your transfer case is in NEUTRAL. So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear, two-wheel high, four-wheel high or four-wheel low — not in NEUTRAL. See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 139. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice, or sand without damaging your transmission, see If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 406. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart when you are already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your two-wheel drive vehicle is being towed. {CAUTION: Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is running at high speed is dangerous. Unless your foot is ﬁrmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Do not shift into a drive gear while your engine is running at high speed. Notice: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine running at high speed may damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not running at high speed when shifting your vehicle. 129 DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. It provides the best fuel economy for your vehicle. If you need more power for passing, and you are: (cid:127) Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. (cid:127) Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. DRIVE (D) can be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or for off-road driving. You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often. Downshifting the transmission in slippery road conditions could result in skidding, see Skidding under Loss of Control on page 371 THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving. However, it reduces vehicle speed more than DRIVE (D) without using your brakes. You can use THIRD (3) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. SECOND (2): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than THIRD (3) without using your brakes. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. If you select SECOND (2) and the Tow/Haul has not been selected, the transmission will drive in SECOND (2) gear. You may use this feature for reducing the speed of the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. If you select SECOND (2) and the Tow/Haul has also been selected, the transmission operation will be limited to FIRST (1) and SECOND (2) gears. You may use this feature for reducing the speed of the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. FIRST (1): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than SECOND (2) without using your brakes. You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in FIRST (1) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission will not shift into ﬁrst gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough. 130 Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transmission. If you are stuck, do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill, use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place. When temperatures are very cold, the Hydra-Matic® Automatic Transmission’s gear shifting may be delayed providing more stable shifts until the engine warms up. Shifts may be more noticeable with a cold transmission. This difference in shifting is normal. The transmission torque converter clutch operation is restricted during cold operation. When the startup transmission temperature is approximately 64°F (18°C) your torque converter clutch will temporarily not operate. Once the transmission temperature rises above 68°F (20°C), normal operation will resume. Tow/Haul Mode Your vehicle has a tow/haul mode. The button is located on the end of the column shift lever. Press the button to enable or disable the tow/haul mode. You can use this feature to assist when towing or hauling a heavy load. See “Tow/Haul Mode” under Towing a Trailer on page 421 for more information. 131 Automatic Transfer Case The transfer case knob is located to the left of the instrument panel cluster. Your vehicle has Four Wheel Drive with StabiliTrak®. For information on StabiliTrak®, see StabiliTrak® System on page 363. Use this dial to shift into and out of four-wheel drive. Four-Wheel Drive If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can send your engine’s driving power to all four wheels for extra traction. Read the part that follows before using four-wheel drive. Notice: Driving on clean, dry pavement in Four-Wheel-Drive High or Four-Wheel-Drive Low for an extended period of time may cause premature wear on your vehicle’s powertrain. Do not drive on clean, dry pavement in Four-Wheel-Drive High or Four-Wheel-Drive Low for extended periods of time. While driving on clean dry pavement and during tight turns, you may experience a vibration in the steering system. Front Axle Locking Feature The front axle locks and unlocks automatically when you shift the transfer case. Some delay for the axle to lock or unlock is normal. 132 You can choose among ﬁve driving settings: Indicator lights in the switches show you which setting you are in. The indicator lights will come on brieﬂy when you turn on the ignition and the last chosen setting will stay on. If the lights do not come on, you should take your vehicle in for service. An indicator light will ﬂash while shifting. Fast ﬂashing means the conditions were not met to make the desired shift, typically the vehicle was going too fast, the automatic transmission was not in neutral. or the clutch pedal was not fully pressed. Slow ﬂashing means the shift is in progress. It will stay on when the shift is completed. If for some reason the transfer cannot make a requested shift, it will return to the last chosen setting. 2 m (Two-Wheel Drive High): This setting is used for driving in most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. This setting also provides the best fuel economy. AUTO (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive): This setting is ideal for use when road surface traction conditions are variable. When driving your vehicle in AUTO, the front axle is engaged, but the vehicle’s power is primarily sent to the rear wheels. When the vehicle’s software determines a need for more traction, the system will transfer more power to the front wheels. Driving in this mode results in slightly lower fuel economy than Two-Wheel Drive High. 4 m (Four-Wheel Drive High): Use the four-wheel high position when you need extra traction, such as on snowy or icy roads or in most off-road situations. This setting also engages your front axle to help drive your vehicle. This is the best setting to use when plowing snow. 4 n (Four-Wheel Drive Low): This setting also engages your front axle and delivers extra torque. You may never need this setting. It sends maximum power to all four wheels. You might choose Four-Wheel Drive Low if you are driving off-road in deep sand, deep mud, deep snow, and while climbing or descending steep hills. StabiliTrak® will not engage in this mode. See StabiliTrak® System on page 363 for more information. 133 Shifting Into Four-Wheel Drive High or AUTO (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive) Turn the knob to the Four-Wheel High or AUTO position. This can be done at any speed, except when shifting from Four-Wheel Drive Low. The indicator light will ﬂash while shifting. It will remain on when the shift is completed. Shifting Into Two-Wheel Drive High Turn the knob to the Two-Wheel High position. This can be done at any speed, except when shifting from Four-Wheel Drive Low. See shifting out of Four-Wheel Drive Low later in this section for more information. {CAUTION: Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See Parking Brake on page 138. NEUTRAL (N): Shift the vehicle’s transfer case to NEUTRAL only when towing your vehicle. See Recreational Vehicle Towing on page 415 or Towing Your Vehicle on page 415 for more information. If the SERVICE 4 WHEEL DRIVE message stays on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. See “SERVICE 4 WHEEL DRIVE message” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 269. 134 Shifting Into Four-Wheel Drive Low This vehicle is limited to 45 mph (72 km/h) while driving in Four-Wheel Drive Low. This feature will protect the drivetrain during extended high speed operation in Four-Wheel Drive Low. To shift to the Four-Wheel Drive Low position, the ignition must be in RUN and the vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (5 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). The preferred method for shifting into Four-Wheel Drive Low is to have your vehicle moving 1 to 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h). Turn the knob to the Four-Wheel Drive Low position. You must wait for the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light to stop ﬂashing and remain on before shifting your transmission in gear. Notice: Shifting the transmission into gear before the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light has stopped ﬂashing could damage the transfer case. To help avoid damaging your vehicle, always wait for the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light to stop ﬂashing before shifting the transmission into gear. The vehicle may have signiﬁcant engagement noise and bump when shifting between Four-Wheel Drive Low and Four-Wheel Drive High ranges or from NEUTRAL while the engine is running. If the knob is turned to the Four-Wheel Drive Low position when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light will ﬂash for 30 seconds and not complete the shift unless your vehicle is moving less than 3 mph (5 km/h) and the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N). After 30 seconds the transfer case will shift to Four-Wheel Drive High mode. 135 Shifting Out of Four-Wheel Drive Low To shift from Four-Wheel Drive Low to Four-Wheel Drive High, AUTO, or Two-Wheel Drive High, your vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (5 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N) and the ignition in RUN. The preferred method for shifting out of Four-Wheel Drive Low is to have your vehicle moving 1 to 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h). Turn the knob to the Four-Wheel Drive High, AUTO, or Two-Wheel Drive High position. You must wait for the Four-Wheel Drive High, AUTO, or Two-Wheel Drive High indicator light to stop ﬂashing and remain on before shifting your transmission into gear. Notice: Shifting the transmission into gear before the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light has stopped ﬂashing could damage the transfer case. To help avoid damaging your vehicle, always wait for the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light to stop ﬂashing before shifting the transmission into gear. The vehicle may have signiﬁcant engagement noise and bump when shifting between Four-Wheel Drive Low and Four-Wheel Drive High ranges or from NEUTRAL while the engine is running. 136 If the knob is turned to the Four-Wheel Drive High, AUTO, or Two-Wheel Drive High switch position when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the Four-Wheel Drive High, AUTO or Two-Wheel Drive High indicator light will ﬂash for 30 seconds but will not complete the shift unless your vehicle is moving less than 3 mph (5 km/h) and the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N). Shifting into NEUTRAL To shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL do the following: 1. Make sure the vehicle is parked so that it will not roll. 2. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. See Parking Brake on page 138 for more information. 3. Start the vehicle or turn the ignition to RUN. 4. Put the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). 5. Shift the transfer case to Two-Wheel Drive High. 6. Turn the transfer case dial clockwise to NEUTRAL till it stops and hold it for 10 seconds. Then slowly release the dial to the four low position. The NEUTRAL light will come on when the transfer case shift to NEUTRAL is complete. 7. If the engine is running, verify that the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N) by shifting the transmission to REVERSE (R) for one second, then shift the transmission to DRIVE (D) for one second. 8. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY, which will turn the engine off. 9. Place the transmission shift lever in PARK (P). 10. Release the parking brake prior to moving the vehicle. 11. Turn the ignition to LOCK. Shifting Out of NEUTRAL To shift out of NEUTRAL do the following: 1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. 2. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N) and turn the ignition to RUN with the engine off. 3. Turn the transfer case dial to the desired transfer case shift position (Two-Wheel Drive High, Four-Wheel Drive High, AUTO). After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL the NEUTRAL light will go out. 4. Release the parking brake prior to moving the vehicle. Notice: Shifting the transmission into gear before the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light has stopped ﬂashing could damage the transfer case. To help avoid damaging your vehicle, always wait for the Four-Wheel Drive Low indicator light to stop ﬂashing before shifting the transmission into gear. 5. Start the engine and shift the transmission to the desired position. Excessively shifting the transfer case into or out of the different modes may cause the transfer case to enter the shift protection mode. This will protect the transfer case from possible damage and will only allow the transfer case to respond to one shift per 10 seconds. The transfer case may stay in this mode for up to three minutes. 137 Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. A chime will activate and the warning light will ﬂash when the parking brake is applied and the vehicle is moving at least 3 mph (5 km/h) for at least three seconds. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the bottom edge of the lever, located above the parking brake pedal, with the parking brake symbol, to release the parking brake. If the ignition is on when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off. Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts. Verify that the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off before driving. If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill, see Towing a Trailer on page 421. 138 Shifting Into Park (P) {CAUTION: 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2. Move the shift lever into the PARK (P) position by pulling the shift lever toward you and moving it up as far as it will go. 3. Be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — not in NEUTRAL (N). 4. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 5. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P). It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. With four-wheel drive, if your transfer case is in NEUTRAL, your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — not in NEUTRAL. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 421. 139 If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and the parking brake is ﬁrmly set before you leave it. After you move the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without ﬁrst pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever was not fully locked into PARK (P). Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. If you have four-wheel drive and your transfer case is in NEUTRAL, your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — not in NEUTRAL. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch ﬁre. You or others could be injured. Do not leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to. 140 Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may ﬁnd it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called torque lock. To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To ﬁnd out how, see Shifting Into Park (P) on page 139. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission, then you will be able to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). Shifting Out of Park (P) Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system which locks the shift lever in PARK (P) when the ignition is in the LOCK. You have to fully apply your regular brakes ﬁrst and then press the shifter lever button before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See Automatic Transmission Operation on page 128. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way up into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into another gear. 141 Parking Over Things That Burn {CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other things that can burn. 142 Engine Exhaust {CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: (cid:127) Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. (cid:127) Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. (cid:127) Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. (cid:127) Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. CAUTION: (Continued) (cid:127) Repairs were not done correctly. (cid:127) Your vehicle or exhaust system has been modiﬁed improperly. If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: (cid:127) Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and (cid:127) Have your vehicle ﬁxed immediately. CAUTION: (Continued) 143 {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move,

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2007 Chevrolet Avalanche Owners Manual