2010 Chevrolet Equinox Owners Manual

Starter Brake Booster Sunroof Antilock Brake System Pump Instrument Panel Fuse Block 3
Power Windows – Left Antilock Brake System Module

Mini Fuses

16

17

Usage Transmission Control Module Battery Trailer Parking Light

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Mini Fuses

Usage

32

33

34

35
36
37
38

39

40

41

42

43

Horn Right High‐Beam Headlamp Left High‐Beam Headlamp Ignition Even Coil Ignition Odd Coil Windshield Washer Front Fog Lamps Post Catalytic Converter Oxygen Sensor Engine Control Module Pre–Catalytic Converter Oxygen Sensor Transmission Control Module Mirror

Usage Engine Control Module Battery Heated Mirror Trailer Left Lift Gate Module Power Lumbar Trailer Right Canister Vent Memory Mirror Module Regulated Voltage Control Battery Sensor Rear Accessory Power Outlet Wiper Rear Wiper Air Conditioning Compressor Rear Latch

18

19
20
21
22
23
24

25

26

27

28
29

30

31

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Vehicle Care

Mini Fuses

Usage

44

45
46

47

48

49

50

51

52

Chassis Control Module Ignition Spare Rear Drive Module Lift Gate Module Logic Instrument Panel Fuse Block Ignition Heated Seat – Front Chassis Control Module Engine Control Module Rear Vision Camera

Midi Fuse

53

Usage Electric Power Steering

Micro Relays

Usage

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

54
55

56

57

58

59

60
61
62
63
64

Rear Defogger Cooling Fan Low Head Lamp High Beam Cooling Fan Control Wiper On/Off Control Air Conditioning Compressor Wiper Speed Fog Lamp Engine Control Starter Run/Crank

Mini Relays

Usage

65
66

Cooling Fan High Brake Booster

The instrument panel fuse block is located on the passenger side panel of the center console. To access the fuses, open the fuse panel door from the passenger side by pulling it out. To reinstall the door, insert the tabs on the bottom of the door into the console first, then push the door back into its original location.

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

Mini Fuses

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

Mini Fuses

Usage

Mini Fuses

Steering Wheel DM Spare Spare

Usage Body Control Module 1
Infotainment Body Control Module 7

Usage Noise Control Module Body Control Module 4
Radio SEO Battery Ultrasonic Rear Parking Aid Module Heater, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Battery Auxiliary Power Front Heater, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Ignition Display Body Control Module 5
Auxiliary Power Rear

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Vehicle Care

Mini Fuses

Usage

Mini Fuses

Usage

18

19

20

21

22
23
24
25
26
27
28

30

Instrument Panel Cluster Ignition PDI Module Body Control Module 6
SEO Retained Accessory Power SDM Ignition Spare Spare PRNDL Spare Spare Spare Body Control Module 3

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

Amplifier Discrete Logic Ignition Switch Communications Integration Module Body Control Module 2
SDM Battery Data Link Connection Instrument Panel Cluster Battery IOS Module (Passenger Sensing System) Spare

J‐Case Fuses

29

40

Usage

Front Blower Motor Body Control Module 8

Relays

Usage

41

42

LOG Relay Retained Accessory Power Relay

Wheels and Tires

Tires Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your vehicle Warranty booklet for details. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer.

{ WARNING

Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.

. Overloading your tires can

cause overheating as a result of too much flexing. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24.

. Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when your tires are cold. See Tire Pressure on page 9‑50.

(Continued)

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WARNING (Continued)

. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured or broken by a sudden impact — such as when you hit a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure.

. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your tread is badly worn, or if your tires have been damaged, replace them.

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Vehicle Care

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. (D) 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. (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 9‑61 . (G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load.

regular road tire has lost air and gone flat. If your vehicle has a compact spare tire, see Compact Spare Tire on page 9‑73 and If a Tire Goes Flat on page 9‑64 . (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.

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(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 9‑50 . (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.

Compact Spare Tire Example

(A) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (B) Temporary Use Only: The compact spare tire or temporary use tire has a tread life of approximately 5 000 km (3,000 miles) and should not be driven at speeds over 105 km/h (65 mph). The compact spare tire is for emergency use when a

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Tire Designations

Tire Size The following illustration shows 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.

(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 carry 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: This means 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. 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 psi (pounds per square inch) or kPa (kilopascal) before a tire has built up heat from driving. See Tire Pressure on page 9‑50 .

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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 8‑24 .

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Vehicle Care

GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 . GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 . 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 8‑24 . Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions.

Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering, or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on the other sidewall of the tire. Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles. Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire inflation pressure as shown on the tire placard. See Tire Pressure on page 9‑50 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 .

Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated. Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead. Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire can operate. Traction: The friction between the tire and the road surface. The amount of grip provided. Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road.

Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes called wear bars, that show across the tread of a tire when only 1.6 mm (1/16 inch) of tread remains. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 9‑58 . 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 9‑61 .

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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 8‑24 . 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's capacity weight and the original equipment tire size and recommended inflation pressure. See “Tire and Loading Information Label” under Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 .

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Vehicle Care

Tire Pressure Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively. Notice: Do not let anyone tell you that under‐inflation or over‐inflation is all right. It is not. If your tires do not have enough air (under‐inflation), you can get the following:

. Too much flexing . Too much heat . Tire overloading . Premature or irregular wear . Poor handling . Reduced fuel economy

If your tires have too much air (over‐inflation), you can get the following:

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

road hazards

A vehicle specific Tire and Loading Information label is attached to your vehicle. This label shows your vehicle's original equipment tires and the correct inflation pressures for your 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 your vehicle's maximum load carrying capacity.

For additional information regarding how much weight your vehicle can carry, and an example of the Tire and Loading Information label, see Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 . How you load your vehicle affects vehicle handling and ride comfort. Never load your vehicle with more weight than it was designed to carry.

When to Check Check your 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 60 psi (420 kPa). For additional information regarding the compact spare tire, see Compact Spare Tire on page 9‑73 .

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

If the cold tire inflation pressure matches the recommended pressure on the Tire and Loading Information label, no further adjustment is necessary. If the inflation pressure is low, add air until 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 gage. 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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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 vehicle's 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.)

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Vehicle Care

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 9‑53 for additional information. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Industry and Science Canada See Radio Frequency Statement on page 12‑16 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and RSS-210/211 of Industry and Science Canada.

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See Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 , for an example of the Tire and Loading Information label and its location on your vehicle. Also see Tire Pressure on page 9‑50 . Your vehicle's TPMS can warn you about a low tire pressure condition but it does not replace normal tire maintenance. See Tire Inspection on page 9‑56 , Tire Rotation on page 9‑56 and Tires on page 9‑43. Notice: Liquid tire sealants could damage the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) sensors. Sensor damage caused by using a tire sealant is not covered by your warranty. Do not use liquid tire sealants.

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 vehicle's tires and transmit the tire pressure readings to a receiver located in the vehicle.

When a low tire pressure condition is detected, the TPMS illuminates the low tire pressure warning light located on the instrument panel cluster.

At the same time a message to check the pressure in a specific tire appears on the Driver Information Center (DIC) display. 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 by the driver. For additional information and details about the DIC operation and displays see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 4‑27. The low tire pressure warning light may come on in cool weather when the vehicle is first started, and then turn off as you start to drive. This could be an early indicator that the air pressure in the tire(s) are getting low and need to be inflated to the proper pressure. A Tire and Loading Information label, attached to your vehicle, shows the size of your vehicle's original equipment tires and the correct inflation pressure for your vehicle's tires when they are cold.

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Vehicle Care

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 is also displayed. The low tire warning light and DIC warning message come on at each ignition cycle until the problem is corrected. Some of the conditions that can cause the malfunction light and DIC message 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 TPMS malfunction light and DIC message should go off once you re‐install the road tire containing the TPMS sensor.

The TPMS sensor matching process was started but not completed or not completed successfully after rotating the vehicle's tires. The DIC message and TPMS malfunction light should go off once the TPMS sensor matching process is performed successfully. See “TPMS Sensor Matching Process” later in this section.

. One or more TPMS sensors are

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

. Replacement tires or wheels do not match your vehicle's original equipment tires or wheels. Tires and wheels other than those recommended for your vehicle could prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. See Buying New Tires on page 9‑58.

. 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 it cannot detect or signal a low tire condition. See your dealer/retailer 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. Any time you rotate your vehicle's tires or replace one or more of the TPMS sensors, the identification codes will need to be matched to the new tire/wheel position. The sensors are matched to the tire/wheel positions in the following order: driver side front tire, passenger side front tire, passenger side rear tire, and driver side rear tire using a TPMS diagnostic tool. See your dealer/retailer for service. The TPMS sensors can also be matched to each tire/wheel position by increasing or decreasing the tire's air pressure. If increasing the

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tire's air pressure, do not exceed the maximum inflation pressure indicated on the tire's sidewall. To decrease air-pressure out of a tire you can use the pointed end of the valve cap, a pencil-style air pressure gage, or a key. You have two minutes to match the first tire/wheel position, and five minutes overall to match all four tire/wheel positions. If it takes longer than two minutes, to match the first tire and wheel, or more than five minutes to match all four tire and wheel positions the matching process stops and you need to start over.

The TPMS sensor matching process is outlined below: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Turn the ignition switch to

ON/RUN with the engine off.

3. Press the Remote Keyless Entry

(RKE) transmitter's lock and unlock buttons at the same time for approximately five seconds. The horn sounds twice to signal the receiver is in relearn mode and Tire Learning Active message displays on the DIC screen.

4. Start with the driver side

front tire.

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Vehicle Care

5. Remove the valve cap from the

valve cap stem. Activate the TPMS sensor by increasing or decreasing the tire's air pressure for five seconds, or until a horn chirp sounds. The horn chirp, which may take up to 30 seconds to sound, confirms that the sensor identification code has been matched to this tire and wheel position.

8. Proceed to the driver side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 5. The horn sounds two times to indicate the sensor identification code has been matched to the driver side rear tire, and the TPMS sensor matching process is no longer active. The Tire Learning Active message on the DIC display screen goes off.

6. Proceed to the passenger side

9. Turn the ignition switch to

front tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 5.

7. Proceed to the passenger side

rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 5.

LOCK/OFF.

10. Set all four tires to the

recommended air pressure level as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label. 11. Put the valve caps back on the

valve stems.

Tire Inspection We recommend that you regularly inspect your vehicle's tires, including the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, for signs of wear or damage. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 9‑58 for more information.

Tire Rotation Tires should be rotated every 8 000 to 13 000 km (5,000 to 8,000 miles). See Scheduled Maintenance on page 10‑2 . The purpose of a regular tire rotation is to achieve a uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. This will ensure that the vehicle continues to perform most like it did when the tires were new.

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{ WARNING

Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get all the rust or dirt off. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 9‑64 .

Do not include the compact spare tire in the tire rotation. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure on page 9‑50 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 . Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor System. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 9‑53 . Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and Specifications on page 11‑2 .

Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate the tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 9‑58 and Wheel Replacement on page 9‑63 .

When rotating the vehicle's tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here.

9-58

Vehicle Care

When It Is Time for New Tires Various factors, such as maintenance, temperatures, driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions influence when you need new tires.

The vehicle needs new tires if any of the following statements are true: . You can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire.

. You can see cord or fabric showing through the tire's rubber. The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut, or snagged deep enough to show cord or fabric. The tire has a bump, bulge, or split. The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that cannot be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage.

One way to tell when it is time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which appear when the tires have only 1.6 mm (1/16 inch) or less of tread remaining.

The rubber in tires degrades over time. This is also true for the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, even if it is not being used. Multiple conditions affect how fast this aging takes place, including temperatures, loading conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance. With proper care and maintenance tires typically

wear out before they degrade due to age. If you are unsure about the need to replace the tires as they get older, consult the tire manufacturer for more information.

Buying New Tires GM has developed and matched specific tires for your vehicle. The original equipment tires installed on your vehicle, when it was new, were designed to meet General Motors Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) system rating. If you need replacement tires, GM strongly recommends that you get tires with the same TPC Spec rating. This way, your vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give the same performance and vehicle safety, during normal use, as the original tires.

Vehicle Care

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{ WARNING

If you use bias-ply tires on the vehicle, the wheel rim flanges could develop cracks after many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel could fail suddenly, causing a crash. Use only radial-ply tires with the wheels on the vehicle.

If you must replace your vehicle's tires with those that do not have a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating, and construction type (radial and bias‐belted tires) as your vehicle's original tires.

GM's exclusive TPC Spec system considers over a dozen critical specifications that impact the overall performance of your vehicle, including brake system performance, ride and handling, traction control, and tire pressure monitoring performance. GM's TPC Spec number is molded onto the tire's sidewall near the tire size. If the tires have an all‐season tread design, the TPC Spec number will be followed by an MS for mud and snow. See Tire Sidewall Labeling on page 9‑44
for additional information. GM recommends replacing tires in sets of four. This is because uniform tread depth on all tires will help keep your vehicle performing most like it did when the tires were new. Replacing less than a full set of tires can affect the braking and handling performance of your vehicle.

See Tire Inspection on page 9‑56
and Tire Rotation on page 9‑56
for information on proper tire rotation.

{ WARNING

Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes, brands, or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes, brands, or types may also cause damage to your vehicle. Be sure to use the correct size, brand, and type of tires on all wheels. It is all right to drive with your compact spare temporarily, as it was developed for use on your vehicle. See Compact Spare Tire on page 9‑73 .

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Vehicle Care

Vehicles that have a tire pressure monitoring system could give an inaccurate low‐pressure warning if non‐TPC Spec rated tires are installed on your vehicle. Non‐TPC Spec rated tires may give a low‐pressure warning that is higher or lower than the proper warning level you would get with TPC Spec rated tires. See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 9‑51 . Your vehicle's original equipment tires are listed on the Tire and Loading Information Label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 8‑24 , for more information about the Tire and Loading Information Label and its location on your vehicle.

Different Size Tires and Wheels If you add wheels or tires that are a different size than your original equipment wheels and tires, this could affect the way your vehicle performs, including its braking, ride and handling characteristics, stability, and resistance to rollover. Additionally, if your vehicle has electronic systems such as anti‐lock brakes, rollover airbags, traction control, and electronic stability control, the performance of these systems can be affected.

{ WARNING If you add different sized wheels, your vehicle may not provide an acceptable level of performance and safety if tires not recommended for those wheels are selected. You may increase the chance that you will crash and suffer serious injury. Only use GM specific wheel and tire systems developed for your vehicle, and have them properly installed by a GM certified technician.

See Buying New Tires on page 9‑58 and Accessories and Modifications on page 9‑3 for additional information.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:

Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which grades tires by treadwear, traction, and temperature performance. This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States. The grades are molded on the sidewalls of

most passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver, or temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 inches), or to some limited-production tires. While the tires available on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these grades, they must also conform to federal safety requirements and additional General Motors Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.

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Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1.5) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and differences in road characteristics and climate.

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Vehicle Care

Traction – AA, A, B, C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Temperature – A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the

material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. It should be noted that the temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The tires and wheels on the vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give the longest tire life and best overall performance. Adjustments to wheel alignment and tire balancing will not be necessary on a regular basis. However, if there is unusual tire wear or the vehicle pulls to one side or the other, the alignment should be checked. If the vehicle vibrates when driving on a smooth road, the tires and wheels might need to be rebalanced. See your dealer/retailer for proper diagnosis.

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Used Replacement Wheels

{ WARNING

Putting a used wheel on the vehicle is dangerous. You cannot know how it has been used or how far it has been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause a crash. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel.

Wheel Replacement Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your dealer/retailer if any of these conditions exist. Your dealer/retailer will know the kind of wheel you need. Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset, and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. If you need to replace any of the wheels, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) sensors, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, and TPMS sensors for the vehicle.

{ WARNING

Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you lose control. You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for replacement.

Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance, and tire or tire chain clearance to the body and chassis. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 9‑64 for more information.

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Vehicle Care

Tire Chains

{ WARNING

Do not use tire chains. There is not enough clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension or other vehicle parts. The area damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and you or others may be injured in a crash. Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on the vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer's instructions. To help avoid damage to the vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the device if it is contacting the vehicle, and do not spin the

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

vehicle's wheels. If you do find traction devices that will fit, install them on the front tires.

If a Tire Goes Flat It is unusual for a tire to blowout while you are driving, especially if you maintain your vehicle's tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it is much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a blowout, here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire creates a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane.

A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you would use in a skid. In any rear blowout remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible.

{ WARNING Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, it is designed only for changing a flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you or others could be badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, only use it for changing a flat tire.

If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers on page 5‑2.

{ WARNING

Changing a tire can be dangerous. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over or fall on you or other people. You and they could be badly injured or even killed. Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:

1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put an automatic

transmission shift lever in P (Park), or shift a manual transmission to 1 (First) or R (Reverse).

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

3. Turn off the engine and do not restart while the vehicle is raised.

4. Do not allow passengers to

remain in the vehicle.

To be certain the vehicle will not move, put blocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side, at the opposite end of the vehicle.

When the vehicle has a flat tire (B), use the following example as a guide to assist you in the placement of wheel blocks (A).

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A. Wheel Block B. Flat Tire The following information explains how to repair or change a tire.

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Vehicle Care

Tire Changing

Removing the Spare Tire and Tools To access the spare tire and tools: 1. Open the liftgate. See Liftgate

(Manual) on page 1‑8 or Liftgate (Power) on page 1‑9.

2. Lift the load floor up.

3. Remove the extension (A),

wheel wrench (B) and jack (C). Place the tools next to the tire being changed.

Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 1. Do a safety check before

proceeding. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 9‑64 for more information.

2. For vehicles with wheel nut caps, turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to loosen and remove them. Do not try to remove plastic caps from the cover or center cap.

3. For vehicles with a wheel cover or center cap, pull the cover or center cap away from the wheel to remove it. Store the wheel cover in the cargo area until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced.

4. Turn the retainer nut

counterclockwise and remove the spare tire.

5. Place the spare tire next to the

tire being changed.

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Notice: Make sure that the jack lift head is in the correct position or you may damage your vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.

4. Turn the wheel wrench

counterclockwise to loosen all the wheel nuts, but do not remove them yet.

5. Place the jack near the flat tire.

Front

Rear

6. Position the jack lift head at the jack location nearest the flat tire. The location is indicated by a mark on the bottom edge of the front and rear door plastic molding. The jack must not be used in any other position.

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Vehicle Care

Place the jack notch (A) under the frame rail seam (B).

7. Put the compact spare tire

near you.

{ WARNING

Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.

{ WARNING

Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.

{ WARNING Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, it is designed only for changing a flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you or others could be badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, only use it for changing a flat tire.

8. Fit the jack handle extension

onto the jack by sliding the hook through the end of the jack.

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9.

Insert the other end of the jack handle into the wrench.

10. Place the jack under the

11. Raise the vehicle by turning the

vehicle.

jack handle clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the road tire to clear the ground.

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Vehicle Care

WARNING (Continued)

paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get all the rust or dirt off. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 9‑64 .

12. Remove all of the wheel nuts. 13. Remove the flat tire. { WARNING

Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, use a cloth or a

(Continued)

14. Remove any rust or dirt from

the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces, and spare wheel.

15. Place the compact spare tire

on the wheel-mounting surface.

{ WARNING

Never use oil or grease on bolts or nuts because the nuts might come loose. The vehicle's wheel could fall off, causing a crash.

16. Reinstall the wheel nuts.

Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

17. Lower the vehicle by turning

the jack handle counterclockwise.

{ WARNING

Wheel nuts that are improperly or incorrectly tightened can cause the wheels to become loose or come off. The wheel nuts should be tightened with a torque wrench to the proper torque specification after replacing. Follow the torque specification supplied by the

(Continued)

Vehicle Care

9-71

When reinstalling the wheel cover or center cap on the full-size tire, tighten all five plastic caps hand snug with the aid of the wheel wrench and tighten them with the wheel wrench an additional one‐ quarter of a turn. Notice: Wheel covers will not fit on your vehicle's compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on the compact spare, the cover or the spare could be damaged.

WARNING (Continued)

aftermarket manufacturer when using accessory locking wheel nuts. See Capacities and Specifications on page 11‑2 for original equipment wheel nut torque specifications.

Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. See Capacities and Specifications on page 11‑2 for the wheel nut torque specification.

18. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in

a crisscross sequence, as shown.

19. Lower the jack all the way and remove the jack from under the vehicle.

20. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly

with the wheel wrench.

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Vehicle Care

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools

To store the flat tire:

{ WARNING

Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

3. Put the flat tire in the rear

storage area with the valve stem pointing toward the rear of the vehicle.

1. Remove the cable package. The

cable is stored in a plastic bag under the compact spare tire.

2. Remove the small center cap by tapping the back of the cap with the extension of the shaft, if the vehicle has aluminum wheels.

4. Pull the cable (A) through the

door striker (D) then the center of the wheel (C).

5. Hook the cable onto the outside portion of the liftgate hinges (B). 6. Hook the other end of the cable

onto the outside portion of the liftgate hinge on the other side of the vehicle.

7. Pull on the cable to make sure it

is secure.

8. Make sure the metal tube is

centered at the striker. Push the tube toward the front of the vehicle.

9. Close the liftgate and make sure

it is latched properly.

The compact spare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can.

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Compact Spare Tire { WARNING Driving with more than one compact spare tire at a time could result in loss of braking and handling. This could lead to a crash and you or others could be injured. Use only one compact spare tire at a time.

If this vehicle has a compact spare tire it was fully inflated when the vehicle was new, however, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 420 kPa (60 psi). After installing the compact spare on the vehicle, stop as soon as possible and make sure the spare tire is correctly inflated. The compact spare is made to perform well at speeds up to 105 km/h (65 mph) for distances up to 5 000 km (3,000 miles), so you can finish your trip and have the full-size tire repaired or replaced at your

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Vehicle Care

convenience. Of course, it is best to replace the spare with a full-size tire as soon as possible. The spare tire will last longer and be in good shape in case it is needed again. Notice: When the compact spare is installed, do not take the vehicle through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails which can damage the tire, wheel and other parts of the vehicle. Do not use the compact spare on other vehicles. Do not mix the compact spare tire or wheel with other wheels or tires. They will not fit. Keep the spare tire and its wheel together. Notice: Tire chains will not fit the compact spare. Using them can damage the vehicle and can damage the chains too. Do not use tire chains on the compact spare.

Jump Starting Jump starting can be used on vehicles with run‐down batteries by using jumper cables and another vehicle.

{ WARNING

Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because:

. They contain acid that can

burn you.

. They contain gas that can

explode or ignite.

. They contain enough electricity to burn you.

If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

{ WARNING

Using an open flame near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You do not need to add water to the battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you do not, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.

Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely. Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to the vehicle that would not be covered by the warranty. Trying to start the vehicle by pushing or pulling it will not work, and it could damage the vehicle. Notice: If you leave the radio or other accessories on during the jump starting procedure, they could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the warranty. Always turn off the radio and other accessories when jump starting the vehicle.

Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the correct order, making sure that the cables do not touch each other or other metal. 1. The vehicle used to jump start

must have 12-volt battery with a negative ground.

Notice: If the other vehicle's system is not a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. Only use vehicles with 12-volt systems with negative grounds to jump start your vehicle.

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9-75

2. The vehicles should be close

enough for the jumper cables to reach, but the vehicles should not be touching. Touching could cause grounding and possible electrical system damage. Put both vehicles in P (Park) and set the parking brake firmly. 3. Unplug accessories plugged into

the cigarette lighter or the accessory power outlet. Turn off the radio and all lamps that are not needed. Turn off the ignition