2011 Chevrolet Equinox Owners Manual

To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. If the level is below the bottom of the fill plug hole, located on the transfer case, the vehicle will need some lubricant added. Add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the fill plug hole. A fluid loss could indicate a problem; check and have it repaired, if needed.

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Vehicle Care

What to Use Refer to Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑6 to determine what kind of lubricant to use.

Starter Switch Check

{ WARNING When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.

1. Before starting this check, be

sure there is enough room around the vehicle.

2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See Parking Brake on page 9‑38.

Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.

3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in P (Park) or N (Neutral). If the vehicle starts in any other position, contact your dealer for service.

Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check

{ WARNING When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.

1. Before starting this check, be

sure there is enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface.

2. Firmly apply the parking brake.

See Parking Brake on page 9‑38. Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if the vehicle begins to move.

3. With the engine off, turn the

ignition on, but do not start the engine. Without applying the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of P (Park) with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out of P (Park), contact your dealer for service.

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Ignition Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF in each shift lever position.

The ignition should turn to LOCK/OFF only when the shift lever is in P (Park). The ignition key should come out only in LOCK/OFF.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check { WARNING

When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.

Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake.

To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and the transmission in N (Neutral), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only. To check the P (Park) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to P (Park). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Vehicle Care

10-29

Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear and cracking. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 11‑2 for more information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, see Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 11‑8. Notice: Allowing the wiper blade arm to touch the windshield when no wiper blade is installed could damage the windshield. Any damage that occurs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not allow the wiper blade arm to touch the windshield. Front Wiper Blade Replacement To replace the front wiper blades: 1. Lift the wiper arm from the windshield until no further movement is possible.

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Vehicle Care

2. Press the square button on the top side, at the end of the wiper arm, and pull the wiper blade out of the end of the wiper arm. Install the wiper blade connector by sliding into the end of the wiper arm until the square button on the wiper blade clicks into place with the wiper arm.

3.

4. Place the wiper arm with the

wiper blade in place back on the windshield.

Rear Wiper Blade Replacement To replace the rear wiper blade: 1. Lift the wiper arm from the

liftgate glass until no further movement is possible.

2. Hold the wiper arm at the tip with

one hand and hold the wiper blade at the tip with the other hand.

3. Pull down on the wiper blade. The blade will pull away from the arm.

5. Align the wiper blade with the arm and hold both ends of the arm while gently squeezing until the blade snaps into place. Do not apply excessive force during this operation. Reposition the blade in the arm and repeat, if blade is not correctly positioned.

6. Place the wiper arm with the wiper blade attached back on the liftgate glass.

4. Place the wiper blade into the

wiper arm aligning the blade attachment rivet with the arm attachment.

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

headlamps are 7.6 m (25 ft) from a light colored wall.

. Must have all four tires on a

level surface which is level all the way to the wall.

. Should be placed so it is

perpendicular to the wall or other flat surface.

. Should not have any snow, ice,

or mud on it.

. Should be fully assembled and

all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being performed.

. Should be normally loaded with

a full tank of fuel and one person or 75 kg (160 lbs) sitting on the driver's seat. Tires should be properly inflated.

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

Vehicle Care

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

page 10‑5 for more information.

2. Locate the aim dot on the lens of

the low‐beam headlamp.

3. Measure the distance from the

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

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Vehicle Care

4. At the wall measure from the

ground upward (A) to the recorded distance from Step 3 and mark it.

5. Draw or tape a horizontal line (B)

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

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

6. Turn on the low-beam

8. Turn the vertical aiming screw

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

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

7. Locate the vertical headlamp

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

9. Make sure that the light from the

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

10. Repeat Steps 7 through 9 for

the opposite headlamp.

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Vehicle Care

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Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker, and Parking Lamps

To replace: 1. Turn the tire to reach the access

port cap located on front of wheel well cover.

Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 10‑36. For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer.

A. Low Beam Headlamp B. High Beam headlamp C. Park/Turn Signal Lamp D. Side Marker Lamp

A. Screw B. Access Port Cap

2. Remove screw (A) and turn

access port cap (B) counterclockwise to remove.

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Vehicle Care

3.

If replacing low/high headlamp bulb, remove the dust cover cap from the back of the headlamp housing by turning the cap counterclockwise.

4. Turn the bulb socket

counterclockwise to remove from lamp assembly.

5. Remove the bulb from the socket or disconnect bulb assembly from harness connector. Install new bulb.

6. 7. Reinstall the lamp socket to

lamp assembly turning clockwise.

8. Replace the dust cover cap on

headlamps.

9. Reinstall the wheel well cover access port cap and secure by installing screw.

Fog Lamps To replace one of these bulbs:

4. Push the bulb socket into the

fog lamp assembly and turn clockwise to lock it into place.

5. Reconnect the bulb socket to the

electrical connector.

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

1. Locate the fog lamp assembly

under the front facia.

2. Disconnect the bulb socket from the electrical connector, turn and pull out the bulb assembly.

3. Remove the old bulb from the bulb socket and push the new bulb straight into the bulb socket until it connects.

A. Sidemarker B. Stoplamp/Turn Signal Lamp/

Taillamp

C. Back-up Lamp

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To replace one of these lamps: 1. Open the liftgate. See Liftgate

(Manual) on page 2‑8 or Liftgate (Power) on page 2‑8.

5. Disconnect the lamp wiring

harness.

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License Plate Lamp To replace one of these bulbs: 1. Open the liftgate partway. See

Liftgate (Manual) on page 2‑8 or Liftgate (Power) on page 2‑8 for more information.

A. Screw B. Screw Cover

2. Remove the two screw

covers (B) from the taillamp assembly.

3. Remove the two screws (A)

securing the taillamp assembly.

4. Pull taillamp assembly out of

vehicle body.

6. Turn the bulb socket

counterclockwise and pull it out.

7. Pull the bulb straight out of the

socket. Install the new bulb.

8. 9. Push the bulb socket in and turn

it clockwise.

10. Reverse steps 2 through 5 to

reinstall lamp assembly.

Passenger side shown, driver side

similar

2. Push the left end of the lamp

assembly towards the right.

3. Pull the lamp assembly down to

remove from liftgate.

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Vehicle Care

5. Pull the bulb (B) straight out of

the bulb socket.

Replacement Bulbs

6. Push the replacement bulb

Exterior Lamp

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

7. Turn the lamp assembly into the liftgate engaging the clip side first.

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

Back-Up Lamp Fog Lamp Front Headlamp High Beam Headlamp Low Beam License Plate Lamp Parking Lamp/Turn Signal Front Sidemarker Front and Rear Taillamp/Turn Signal Lamp/Stop Lamp

A. Bulb Socket B. Bulb C. Lamp Assembly

4. Turn the bulb socket (A)

counterclockwise to remove from lamp assembly (C).

Bulb

Number 921LL H11

9005LL

H11

168LL

7444NA

194LL

3157K

For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact your dealer.

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Electrical System

Fuses The wiring circuits in the vehicle are protected from short circuits by fuses. This greatly reduces the chance of damage caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure to replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating. Replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating.

If there is a problem on the road and a fuse needs to be replaced, the same amperage fuse can be borrowed. Choose some feature of the vehicle that is not needed to use and replace it as soon as possible. There are two fuse blocks in the vehicle: one in the engine compartment and one in the instrument panel. There is a fuse puller located in the engine compartment fuse block. See Engine Compartment Fuse Block on page 10‑37. It can be used to easily remove fuses from the fuse block.

Vehicle Care

10-37

Engine Compartment Fuse Block

To remove the fuse block cover, squeeze the clips on the cover and lift it straight up. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10‑6. Notice: Spilling liquid on any electrical component on the vehicle may damage it. Always keep the covers on any electrical component.

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Vehicle Care

J-Case Fuses

Usage

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

Power Seat – Left Instrument Panel Fuse Block 1
Rear Defogger Starter AIR Pump Motor Instrument Panel Fuse Block 2
Sunroof Antilock Brake System Pump Instrument Panel Fuse Block 3
Power Windows – Left Antilock Brake System Module

Engine Compartment Fuse Block

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

J-Case Fuses

Usage

Cool Fan 1
Cool Fan 2

J-Case Fuses

Usage

Brake Booster Power Windows – Right Memory Seat Module

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Vehicle Care

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Mini Fuses

17

18
19

20

21

22

23
24

25

26

27

28

Usage Transmission Control Module Battery Trailer Parking Light AIR Pump Solenoid Engine Control Module Battery Canister Vent Trailer Left Side (If Equipped) Lift Gate Module Power Lumbar Trailer Right Side (If Equipped) Rear Accessory Power Outlet Memory Mirror Module Regulated Voltage Control Battery Sensor

Mini Fuses

Usage

Mini Fuses

29
30

31

32
33
34

35

36

37
38
39
40

41

42

Front Wiper Rear Wiper Air Conditioning Compressor Rear Latch Heated Mirrors 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

43

44

45

46

47
48

49

50

51

52

53

54

Usage Pre–Catalytic Converter Oxygen Sensor Transmission Control Module Mirror 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

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Vehicle Care

Midi Fuse

55

Usage Electric Power Steering

Micro Relays

Usage

56
57
58

59

60

61

62

AIR Pump Solenoid Brake Booster Cooling Fan Low Headlamp High Beam Cooling Fan Control Wiper On/Off Control Air Conditioning Compressor

Micro Relays

Usage

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

63
64
65
66
67
68

Rear Defogger Wiper Speed Fog Lamp Engine Control Starter Run/Crank

Mini Relays

Usage

69
70

Cooling Fan High AIR Pump Motor

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.

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To reinstall the door, insert the tabs on the top of the door into the console first, then push the door back into its original location. The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.

Vehicle Care

10-41

Mini Fuses

Usage

10

11

Steering Wheel Dimming Spare Spare Body Control Module 1
Infotainment Body Control Module 7
Noise Control Module Body Control Module 4
Radio Special Equipment Order Battery Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist Module

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

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Vehicle Care

Mini Fuses

Usage

Mini Fuses

Usage

Mini Fuses

Usage

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

Heater, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Battery Auxiliary Power Front Heater, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Ignition Display Body Control Module 5
Auxiliary Power Rear Instrument Panel Cluster Ignition Personal Device Interface Module Body Control Module 6
Special Equipment Order Retained Accessory Power

22

23
24

25

26
27
28

30

31

32

33

34

Sensing and Diagnostic Module Ignition Spare Spare Transmission Gear Shift Position Indicator Spare Spare Spare Body Control Module 3
Amplifier Discrete Logic Ignition Switch Communications Integration Module Body Control Module 2

35

36

37

38

39

J‐Case Fuses

29

40

Relays

41

42

Sensing and Diagnostic Module Battery Data Link Connection Instrument Panel Cluster Battery Passenger Sensing System Module Spare

Usage

Front Blower Motor Body Control Module 8

Usage Logistic Relay (If Equipped) Retained Accessory Power Relay

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Wheels and Tires

Tires Every new GM vehicle has high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. See the warranty manual for information regarding the tire warranty and where to get service. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer.

{ WARNING . Poorly maintained and

improperly used tires are dangerous.

. Overloading the tires can

cause overheating as a result of too much flexing. There could be a blowout and a serious crash. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21.

(Continued)

Vehicle Care

10-43

WARNING (Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

. Improperly repaired tires can

cause a crash. Only the dealer or an authorized tire service center should repair, replace, dismount, and mount the tires.

. Do not spin the tires in

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

. Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting crash could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.

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

. Worn or old tires can cause a

crash. If the tread is badly worn, replace them.

. Replace any tires that have been damaged by impacts with potholes, curbs, etc.

(Continued)

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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 are the

Tire Identification Number (TIN). The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side may have the date of manufacture. (E) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (F) Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires based on three performance factors: treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance. For more information see Uniform Tire Quality Grading on page 10‑59. (G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load.

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regular road tire has lost air and gone flat. If the vehicle has a compact spare tire, see Compact Spare Tire on page 10‑72 and If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑62. (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 10‑49. (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 mi) 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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Vehicle Care

Tire Designations

Tire Size The following is an example of a typical passenger vehicle tire size.

(A) Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire: The United States version of a metric tire sizing system. The letter P as the first character in the tire size means a passenger vehicle tire engineered to standards set by the U.S. Tire and Rim Association. (B) Tire Width: The three‐digit number indicates the tire section width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall.

(C) Aspect Ratio: A two‐digit number that indicates the tire height‐to‐width measurements. For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is 60, as shown in item C of the illustration, it would mean that the tire's sidewall is 60 percent as high as it is wide. (D) Construction Code: A letter code is used to indicate the type of ply construction in the tire. The letter R means radial ply construction; the letter D means diagonal or bias ply construction; and the letter B means belted‐bias ply construction. (E) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches. (F) Service Description: These characters represent the load index and speed rating of the tire. The load index represents

the load carrying capacity a tire is certified to carry. The speed rating is the maximum speed a tire is certified to carry a load.

Tire Terminology and Definitions Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in psi (pounds per square inch) or kPa (kilopascal). Accessory Weight: The combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples of optional accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air conditioning. Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire's height to its width.

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Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords that is located between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made from steel or other reinforcing materials. Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim. Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Cold Tire Pressure: The amount of air pressure in a tire, measured in kPa (kilopascal) or psi (pounds per square inch) before a tire has built up heat from driving. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑49. Curb Weight: The weight of a motor vehicle with standard and optional equipment including the

maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, but without passengers and cargo. DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall of a tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. The DOT code includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator which can also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant, brand, and date of production. GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21.

Vehicle Care

10-47

GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. 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.

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Vehicle Care

Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire. Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight, and production options weight. Normal Occupant Weight: The number of occupants a vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 68 kg (150 lbs). See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. 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 10‑49 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated.

Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead. Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire can operate. Traction: The friction between the tire and the road surface. The amount of grip provided. Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road. Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes called wear bars, that show across the tread of a tire when only 1.6 mm (1/16 in) of tread remains. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 10‑56. UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards): A tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a

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tire's traction, temperature, and treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire. See Uniform Tire Quality Grading on page 10‑59. Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of designated seating positions multiplied by 68 kg (150 lbs) plus the rated cargo load. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight. Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the vehicle capacity weight and the original

equipment tire size and recommended inflation pressure. See “Tire and Loading Information Label” under Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21.

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

. Tire overloading and

over-heating which could lead to a blowout.

. Premature or

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

Vehicle Care

10-49

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

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

road hazards.

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

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Vehicle Care

example of the Tire and Loading Information label, see Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. How you load the vehicle affects vehicle handling and ride comfort. Never load the vehicle with more weight than it was designed to carry.

When to Check Check the tires once a month or more. Do not forget to check the compact spare tire, if the vehicle has one. The compact spare should be at 420 kPa (60 psi). For additional information regarding the compact spare tire, see Compact Spare Tire on page 10‑72.

How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gauge to check tire pressure. You cannot tell if the tires are properly inflated simply by

looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they are underinflated. Check the tire's inflation pressure when the tires are cold. Cold means the vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1.6 km (1 mi). Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem. Press the tire gauge firmly onto the valve to get a pressure measurement. If the cold tire inflation pressure matches the recommended pressure on the Tire and Loading Information label, no further adjustment is necessary. If the inflation pressure is low, add air until you reach the recommended amount. If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the tire valve. Re‐check the tire pressure with the tire gauge.

Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.

Tire Pressure Monitor System The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses radio and sensor technology to check tire pressure levels. The TPMS sensors monitor the air pressure in your tires and transmit tire pressure readings to a receiver located in the vehicle. Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)

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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.

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Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 10‑52 for additional information. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Industry Canada See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑16 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.

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.

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Vehicle Care

Tire Pressure Monitor Operation This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). The TPMS is designed to warn the driver when a low tire pressure condition exists. TPMS sensors are mounted onto each tire and wheel assembly, excluding the spare tire and wheel assembly. The TPMS sensors monitor the air pressure in the tires and transmits the tire pressure readings to a receiver located in the vehicle.

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

as soon as possible and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure shown on the tire loading information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. A message to check the pressure in a specific tire displays in the Driver Information Center (DIC). The low tire pressure warning light and the DIC warning message come on at each ignition cycle until the tires are inflated to the correct inflation pressure. Using the DIC, tire pressure levels can be viewed. For additional information and details about the DIC operation and displays see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑20. The low tire pressure warning light may come on in cool weather when the vehicle is first started, and then turn off as the vehicle is driven. This could be an early indicator that the air pressure is getting low and needs to be inflated to the proper pressure.

A Tire and Loading Information label shows the size of the original equipment tires and the correct inflation pressure for the tires when they are cold. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21, for an example of the Tire and Loading Information label and its location. Also see Tire Pressure on page 10‑49. The TPMS can warn about a low tire pressure condition but it does not replace normal tire maintenance. See Tire Inspection on page 10‑55, Tire Rotation on page 10‑55 and Tires on page 10‑43. Notice: Tire sealant materials are not all the same. A non-approved tire sealant could damage the TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor damage caused by using an incorrect tire sealant is not covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use only the GM-approved tire sealant available through your dealer or included in the vehicle.

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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 pressure warning light flashes for about one minute and then stays on for the remainder of the ignition cycle. A DIC warning message also displays. The low tire pressure warning light and DIC warning message come on at each ignition cycle until the problem is corrected. Some of the conditions that can cause these to come on are: . One of the road tires has been

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

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

. One or more TPMS sensors are

missing or damaged. The 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 for service.

. Replacement tires or wheels do not match the original equipment tires or wheels. Tires and wheels other than those recommended could prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. See Buying New Tires on page 10‑57.

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

If the TPMS is not functioning properly, it cannot detect or signal a low tire condition. See your dealer for service if the TPMS malfunction light and DIC message comes on and stays on. TPMS Sensor Matching Process Each TPMS sensor has a unique identification code. The identification code needs to be matched to a new tire/wheel position after rotating the tires or replacing one or more of the TPMS sensors. The TPMS sensor matching process should also be performed after replacing a spare tire with a road tire containing the TPMS sensor. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off at the next ignition cycle.

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The sensors are matched to the tire/wheel positions, using a TPMS relearn tool, in the following order: driver side front tire, passenger side front tire, passenger side rear tire, and driver side rear. See your dealer for service or to purchase a relearn tool. There are two minutes to match the first tire/wheel position, and five minutes overall to match all four tire/wheel positions. If it takes longer, the matching process stops and must be restarted. The TPMS sensor matching process is: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with

the engine off.

3. Use the MENU button to select the Vehicle Information Menu in the Driver Information Center (DIC). Use the arrow keys to scroll to the Tire Pressure screen.

4. Press the SET/CLR button to

8. Proceed to the passenger side

begin the sensor matching process. A message requesting acceptance of the process should display.

5. Press the SET/CLR button again

to confirm the selection. The horn sounds twice to signal the receiver is in relearn mode and the TIRE LEARNING ACTIVE message displays on the DIC screen.

6. Start with the driver side

front tire.

7. Place the relearn tool against

the tire sidewall, near the valve stem. Then press the button to activate the TPMS sensor. A horn chirp confirms that the sensor identification code has been matched to this tire and wheel position.

front tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 7.

9. Proceed to the passenger side

rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 7.

10. Proceed to the driver side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 7. 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.

11. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. 12. Set all four tires to the

recommended air pressure level as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label.

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Tire Inspection GM recommends that the tires, including the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, be inspected for signs of wear or damage at least once a month. Replace the tire if: . The indicators at three or

more places around the tire can be seen.

. There is 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.

Tire Rotation Tires should be rotated every 12 000 km (7,500 mi). See Scheduled Maintenance on page 11‑2. 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. Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate the tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels.

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See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 10‑56 and Wheel Replacement on page 10‑61.

When rotating the vehicle's tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here. Do not include the compact spare tire in the tire rotation.

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Vehicle Care

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 10‑49 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑21. Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor System. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 10‑52. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2.

{ 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.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

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 10‑62.

Lightly coat the center of the wheel hub with wheel bearing grease after a wheel change or tire rotation to prevent corrosion or rust build-up. Do not get grease on the flat wheel mounting surface or on the wheel nuts or bolts.

When It Is Time for New Tires Factors such as maintenance, temperatures, driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions affect the wear rate of the tires.

Treadwear indicators are one way to tell when it is time for new tires. Treadwear indicators appear when the tires have only 1.6 mm (1/16 in) or less of tread remaining. See Tire Inspection on page 10‑55 and Tire Rotation on page 10‑55 for more information.

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The rubber in tires ages over time. This also applies for the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, even if it is never used. Multiple conditions including temperatures, loading conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance affect how fast aging takes place. Tires will typically need to be replaced due to wear before they may need to be replaced due to age. Consult the tire manufacturer for more information on when tires should be replaced. Vehicle Storage Tires age when stored normally mounted on a parked vehicle. Park a vehicle that will be stored for at least a month in a cool, dry, clean area away from direct sunlight to slow aging. This area should be free of grease, gasoline, or other substances that can deteriorate rubber.

Parking for an extended period can cause flat spots on the tires that may result in vibrations while driving. When storing a vehicle for at least a month, remove the tires or raise the vehicle to reduce the weight from the tires.

Buying New Tires GM has developed and matched specific tires for the vehicle. The original equipment tires installed on the 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, the vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give the same performance and vehicle safety, during normal use, as the original tires.

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GM's exclusive TPC Spec system considers over a dozen critical specifications that impact the overall performance of the 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 10‑44
for additional information. GM recommends replacing tires in sets of four. This is because uniform tread depth on all tires will help keep the 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 the vehicle.

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See Tire Inspection on page 10‑55 and Tire Rotation on page 10‑55 for information on proper tire rotation.

{ WARNING Tires could explode during improper service. Attempting to mount or dismount a tire could cause injury or death. Only your dealer or authorized tire service center should mount or dismount the tires.

WARNING (Continued)

a crash. Using tires of different sizes, brands, or types may also cause damage to the vehicle. Be sure to use the correct size, brand, and type