2015 GMC Savana Owners Manual

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. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, a cloth or a paper towel can be used; however, use a scraper or wire brush later to remove all rust or dirt.

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.

Dual Tire Rotation When the vehicle is new, or whenever a wheel, wheel bolt, or wheel nut is replaced, check the wheel nut torque after 160, 1 600, and 10 000 km (100, 1,000, and 6,000 mi) of driving. For proper wheel nut tightening information, see “Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire” under Tire Changing on page 10-65. Also see “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and Specifications on page 12-2. The outer tire on a dual wheel setup generally wears faster than the inner tire. Tires last longer and wear more evenly if they are rotated.

See Tire Inspection on page 10-55
and Tire Rotation on page 10-55. Also see Maintenance Schedule on page 11-3.

{ Warning

If the vehicle is operated with a tire that is underinflated, the tire can overheat. An overheated tire can lose air suddenly or catch fire. You or others could be injured. Properly inflate all tires, including the spare.

See Tires on page 10-40 and Tire Pressure on page 10-49 for more information on proper tire inflation.

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.

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the rear tires. See Tire Inspection on page 10-55 and Tire Rotation on page 10-55 for additional information. The rubber in tires ages over time. This also applies to the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, even if it is never used. Multiple factors including temperatures, loading conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance affect how fast aging takes place. GM recommends that tires, including the spare if equipped, be replaced after six years, regardless of tread wear. The tire manufacture date is the last four digits of the DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) which is molded into one side of the tire sidewall. The first two digits represent the week (01-52) and the last two digits, the year. For example, the third week of the year 2010 would have a four-digit DOT date of 0310.

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10-57

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 were designed to meet General Motors Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) system rating. When

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. Some commercial truck tires, including Goodyear LT225/75R16
G949 RSA and Goodyear LT225/ 75R16 G933 RSD, may not have treadwear indicators. If the tires do not have treadwear indicators, replace the tires when the tread depth is down to 3.2 mm (1/8 in) for the front tires, or 1.6 mm (1/16 in) for

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Vehicle Care

replacement tires are needed, GM strongly recommends buying tires with the same TPC Spec rating. 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 MS for mud and snow. See Tire Sidewall Labeling on page 10-42 for additional information. GM recommends replacing worn tires in complete sets of four (six for dual rear wheels). Uniform tread depth on all tires will help

to maintain the performance of the vehicle. Braking and handling performance may be adversely affected if all the tires are not replaced at the same time. If proper rotation and maintenance have been done, all four tires (six for dual rear wheels) should wear out at about the same time. See Tire Rotation on page 10-55 for information on proper tire rotation. However, if it is necessary to replace only one axle set of worn tires, place the new tires on the rear axle (two for single rear wheels, four for dual rear wheels).

{ Warning

Tires could explode during improper service. Attempting to mount or dismount a tire could cause injury or death.

Warning (Continued)

Only your dealer or authorized tire service center should mount or dismount the tires.

{ Warning

Mixing tires of different sizes, brands, or types may cause loss of control of the vehicle, resulting in a crash or other vehicle damage. Use the correct size, brand, and type of tires on all wheels. This vehicle may have a different size spare than the road tires originally installed on the vehicle. When new, the vehicle included a spare tire and wheel assembly with a similar overall diameter as the road tires and wheels, so it is

(Continued)

(Continued)

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Warning (Continued)

all right to drive on it. The spare tire was developed for use on this vehicle and will not affect vehicle handling.

{ Warning

Using bias-ply tires on the vehicle may cause the wheel rim flanges to develop cracks after many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel could fail suddenly and cause a crash. Use only radial-ply tires with the wheels on the vehicle.

Winter tires with the same speed rating as the original equipment tires may not be available for H, V, W, Y and ZR speed rated tires. Never exceed the winter

tires’ maximum speed capability when using winter tires with a lower speed rating. If the vehicle tires must be replaced with a tire that does not have a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating, and construction (radial) as the original tires. Vehicles that have a tire pressure monitoring system could give an inaccurate low-pressure warning if non-TPC Spec rated tires are installed. See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 10-50. The Tire and Loading Information label indicates the original equipment tires on the vehicle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-9 for the label location and more information about the Tire and Loading Information label.

Vehicle Care

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Different Size Tires and Wheels If wheels or tires are installed that are a different size than the original equipment wheels and tires, vehicle performance, including its braking, ride and handling characteristics, stability, and resistance to rollover may be affected. If the vehicle has electronic systems such as antilock brakes, rollover airbags, traction control, electronic stability control, or All-Wheel Drive, the performance of these systems can also be affected.

{ Warning

If different sized wheels are used, there may not be an acceptable level of performance and safety if tires not recommended for those wheels are selected. This increases the chance of a crash and serious injury. Only use GM

(Continued)

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Vehicle Care

Warning (Continued)

specific wheel and tire systems developed for the vehicle, and have them properly installed by a GM certified technician.

See Buying New Tires on page 10-57 and Accessories and Modifications on page 10-2.

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 tires, compact spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm), 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.

All Passenger Car Tires Must Conform to Federal Safety Requirements In Addition To These Grades.

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 one-half (1½) 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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Traction 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. Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature 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 Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. Warning: 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.

Vehicle Care

10-61

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The tires and wheels were aligned and balanced at the factory to provide the longest tire life and best overall performance. Adjustments to wheel alignment and tire balancing are not necessary on a regular basis. Consider an alignment check if there is unusual tire wear or the vehicle is significantly pulling to one side or the other. Some slight pull to the left or right, depending on the crown of the road and/or other road surface variations such as troughs or ruts, is normal. If the vehicle is vibrating when driving on a smooth road, the tires and wheels may need to be rebalanced. See your dealer for proper diagnosis.

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.

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Vehicle Care

If the wheel leaks air, replace it. Some aluminum wheels can be repaired. See your dealer if any of these conditions exist. Your dealer will know the kind of wheel that is needed. Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset, and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. Replace wheels, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) sensors with new GM original equipment parts.

{ Warning

Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel nuts can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of the vehicle. Tires can lose air, and cause loss of control, causing (Continued)

Warning (Continued)

a crash. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for replacement.

{ Caution

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.

Used Replacement Wheels

{ Warning

Replacing a wheel with a used one is dangerous. How it has been used or how far it has been driven may be unknown. It could fail suddenly and cause a crash. When replacing wheels, use a new GM original equipment wheel.

Tire Chains

{ Warning

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 (Continued)

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Warning (Continued)

Caution (Continued)

slow down until it stops. Driving too fast or spinning the wheels with chains on will damage the vehicle.

For Cutaway models with LT245/ 75R16, LT225/75R16 or LT215/ 85R16 size single or dual rear tires, use Low Profile Z-Chain or SAE Class S cables. For Cargo or Passenger models with P245/70R17, LT225/75R16 or LT245/75R16 size tires, use Low Profile Z-Chain cables. SAE Class S chains are not recommended. If the vehicle has dual rear tires, do not use individual tire chains. Use tire chains that fit across both dual tires.

crash. To help avoid damage to the vehicle, drive slowly, readjust, or remove the device if it is contacting the vehicle. Do not spin the vehicle's tires. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

{ Caution

Use tire chains only where legal and only when necessary. Use chains that are the proper size for the tires. Install them on the tires of the rear axle. Do not use chains on the tires of the front axle. Tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain manufacturer's instructions. If the chains contact the vehicle, stop and retighten them. If the contact continues,

(Continued)

Vehicle Care

10-63

If a Tire Goes Flat It is unusual for a tire to blow out while driving, especially if the tires are maintained properly. See Tires on page 10-40. If air goes out of a tire, it is much more likely to leak out slowly. But if there ever is 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 off the road, if possible. A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction as used in a skid. Stop pressing the accelerator pedal and steer to straighten the vehicle. It may be very bumpy and noisy. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible.

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Vehicle Care

{ Warning

Driving on a flat tire will cause permanent damage to the tire. Re-inflating a tire after it has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat may cause a blowout and a serious crash. Never attempt to re-inflate a tire that has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat. Have your dealer or an authorized tire service center repair or replace the flat tire as soon as 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 (Continued)

Warning (Continued)

Warning (Continued)

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, well off the road, if possible. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers on page 6-4.

{ Warning Changing a tire can be dangerous. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over or fall causing injury or death. Find a level place to change the tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:

(Continued)

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

transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in 1 (First) or R (Reverse).

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

4. Do not allow passengers to

remain in the vehicle.

5. Place wheel blocks on both

sides of the tire at the opposite corner of the tire being changed.

When the vehicle has a flat tire (2), use the following example as a guide to assist in the placement of the wheel blocks (1).

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Vehicle Care

10-65

1. Wheel Block 2. Flat Tire

The following information explains how to repair or change a tire.

Tire Changing

Removing the Spare Tire and Tools Equipment needed for a cargo van or a passenger van is in the passenger side rear corner of the vehicle.

Remove the retaining wing bolt and lift it off of the mounting bracket. Equipment needed for a 15-passenger seating arrangement is secured on the rear floor on the passenger side of the vehicle.

Remove the retaining wing bolt and lift it out of the mounting bracket to access the equipment.

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Vehicle Care

The tools you will be using include:

To lower the spare tire from the vehicle:

1. Jack 2. Hoist Handle 3. Extension(s) 4. Wheel Wrench 5. Jack Handle

The spare tire is mounted in the rear underbody of the vehicle. Use the hoist handle, extension(s), and the wheel wrench to remove the underbody-mounted spare tire.

1. Spare Tire 2. Tire/Wheel Retainer 3. Hoist Cable 4. Hoist Assembly 5. Hoist Shaft 6. Hoist Handle and

Extension(s)

7. Wheel Wrench

1. Assemble the wheel wrench (7)

to the hoist handle and the extension(s) (6).

2. Open the passenger side

3.

rear door. Insert the chisel end of the hoist handle, on an angle, through the hole in the rear floor panel above the bumper. Be sure the hoist handle connects to the hoist shaft. The chiseled end of the hoist handle is used to lower the spare tire.

4. Turn the wheel wrench

counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground. Continue to turn the wheel wrench until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle.

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5. Remove the wheel wrench,

8. Close the passenger side

Vehicle Care

10-67

rear door.

Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire If the vehicle has plastic wheel nut caps, loosen them by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. The wheel nut caps are designed to remain with the center cap. Remove the center cap. If the wheel has a smooth center piece, place the chisel end of the wheel wrench in the slot on the wheel and gently pry it out.

extension(s), and hoist handle assembly from the hoist shaft.

6. When the tire has been lowered,

pull it closer to reach the tire retainer and pull it up through the wheel opening. For a vehicle that was completed from a cab and chassis, refer to the information from the body supplier/installer. The spare tire is a full-size tire, like the other tires on the vehicle.

7. Put the spare tire near the

flat tire.

1. Jack 2. Hoist Handle 3. Extension(s) 4. Wheel Wrench 5. Jack Handle

1. Do a safety check before

proceeding. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10-63.

2. Loosen all the wheel nuts with

the wheel wrench. Do not remove them yet.

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Vehicle Care

3. Assemble the jack and tools:

Front Flat: Assemble the jack (1) together with the jack handle (5), one or two extension(s) (3), and the wheel wrench (4). Rear Flat: Assemble the jack (1) together with the jack handle (5), two extensions (3), and the wheel wrench (4).

Front Position

Rear Alternative Position (Diesel

Vehicles)

4. Position the jack under the

vehicle, as shown. The front position jacking point is on the frame. The rear position jacking point is on the rear axle. If the exhaust system interferes with the jack location in the rear axle, such as in Diesel vehicles, place the jack (1) on the rear axle between the axle housing and the shock absorber bracket

Front Position

Rear Position

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Vehicle Care

10-69

{ 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, a cloth or a paper towel can be used; however, use a scraper or wire brush later to remove all rust or dirt.

in order to avoid any interference with the exhaust pipe (2).

{ Warning

5. Turn the wheel wrench

clockwise to raise the vehicle. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

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 the 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.

6. Remove all the wheel nuts. 7. Take the flat tire off of the

mounting surface.

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Vehicle Care

8. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces, and spare wheel.

{ 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.

9. Put the wheel nuts back on with

the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each wheel nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

10. Turn the jack handle

counterclockwise to lower the vehicle. Lower the jack completely.

{ Warning

Wheel nuts that are not tight can work loose. If all the nuts on a wheel come off, the wheel can come off the vehicle, causing a crash. All wheel nuts must be properly tightened. Follow the rules in this section to be sure they are.

{ Warning

If wheel studs are damaged, they can break. If all the studs on a wheel broke, the wheel could come off and cause a crash. If any stud is damaged because of a loose-running wheel, it could be that all of the studs are damaged. To be sure, replace all studs on the wheel. If the stud holes in a wheel have become larger, the wheel could collapse in (Continued)

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Vehicle Care

10-71

Warning (Continued)

Warning (Continued)

operation. Replace any wheel if its stud holes have become larger or distorted in any way. Inspect hubs and hub‐piloted wheels for damage. Because of loose running wheels, piloting pad damage may occur and require replacement of the entire hub, for proper centering of the wheels. When replacing studs, hubs, wheel nuts or wheels, be sure to use GM original equipment parts.

{ 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

(Continued)

specification supplied by the aftermarket manufacturer when using accessory locking wheel nuts. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12-2 for original equipment wheel nut torque specifications.

{ Caution

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 12-2 for the wheel nut torque specification.

11. Use the wheel wrench to

tighten the nuts firmly. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise and in a crisscross sequence, as shown.

12. Put the wheel cover or the

center cap and plastic wheel nut caps back on. Remove any wheel blocks. Have a technician check the wheel nut tightness of all wheels with a torque wrench after the first 160 km (100 mi) and then 1 600 km (1,000 mi) after that. Repeat this service

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Vehicle Care

whenever a tire is removed or serviced. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12-2 for more information.

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools

{ 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.

1. Put the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem pointed down.

Two clicks should occur. The spare tire hoist cannot be overtightened.

2. Pull the retaining bar through the center of the wheel, making sure it is properly attached.

3. Pull the wheel toward the rear of

the vehicle, keeping the cable tight.

4. Open the passenger side

5.

rear door. Insert the chisel end of the hoist handle, on an angle, through the hole in the rear floor panel above the bumper.

6. Turn the wheel wrench

clockwise to fully raise the tire against the underside of the vehicle. Continue turning the wheel wrench until the tire is secure and the cable is tight.

7. Make sure the tire is stored

securely. Push, pull (1), and then try to turn (2) the tire. If the tire moves, use the wheel wrench to tighten the cable. Two clicks mean the tire is up all the way.

8. Return the jacking equipment to the proper location. Secure the items and replace the jack cover.

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Have the damaged or flat road tire repaired or replaced back onto the vehicle, as soon as possible, so the spare tire will be available in case it is needed again. Do not mix tires and wheels of different sizes, because they will not fit. Keep the spare tire and its wheel together.

Full-Size Spare Tire If this vehicle came with a full-size spare tire, it was fully inflated when new, however, it can lose air over time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. See Tire Pressure on page 10-49 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9-9. For instructions on how to remove, install, or store a spare tire, see Tire Changing on page 10-65. After installing the spare tire on the vehicle, stop as soon as possible and check that the spare is correctly inflated. The spare tire is made to perform well at speeds up to 112 km/h (70 mph) at the recommended inflation pressure, so you can finish your trip.

Vehicle Care

10-73

Jump Starting For more information about the vehicle battery, see Battery on page 10-24. If the vehicle battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely.

{ 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.

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Vehicle Care

{ Caution

Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to the vehicle that would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Trying to start the vehicle by pushing or pulling it will not work, and it could damage the vehicle.

1. Check the other vehicle. It must

have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system.

{ Caution

If the other vehicle does not have a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. Only use a vehicle that has a 12-volt system with a negative ground for jump starting.

2. Get the vehicles close enough

so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you do not want. You would not be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in Neutral before setting the parking brake.

{ Caution

If any accessories are left on or plugged in during the jump starting procedure, they could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle

(Continued)

Caution (Continued)

warranty. Whenever possible, turn off or unplug all accessories on either vehicle when jump starting.

3. Turn off the ignition on both

vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or the accessory power outlet. Turn off the radio and all lamps that are not needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save the radio!

4. Open the hoods and locate the

positive (+) and negative (−) terminal locations of the other vehicle. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal.

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Do not connect positive (+) to negative (−) or you will get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts too. And do not connect the negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal on the dead battery because this can cause sparks.

{ Warning

{ 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.

Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running.

5. Check that the jumper cables do

not have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative (−) will go to an unpainted metal part or to a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal.

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6. Connect the red positive (+)

cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

7. Now connect the black

negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (−) cable does not go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (−) terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal.

{ Caution

The vehicle uses the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (-) terminal. Move the antenna coaxial cable out of the way before clamping the negative jumper cable to the fixed antenna bracket. Avoid touching the negative cable clamp to the air conditioning line. Failure to do either of these could damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

9. Now start the vehicle with the

good battery and run the engine for a while.

10. Try to start the vehicle that had

the dead battery. If it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

8. Connect the other end of the

negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal location on the vehicle with the dead battery. On your van, use the unpainted radio antenna bracket as a remote negative (−) terminal.

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{ Caution 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.

Jumper Cable Removal Reverse the sequence exactly when removing the jumper cables.

Towing the Vehicle

{ Caution

Incorrectly towing a disabled vehicle may cause damage. The damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Have the vehicle towed on a flatbed car carrier or a wheel lift tow truck. If a wheel lift tow truck is used, the drive wheels cannot contact the road while the vehicle is being towed. A wheel dolly must be used to lift all drive wheels off the ground. Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if the disabled vehicle must be towed.

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Recreational Vehicle Towing Recreational vehicle towing means towing the vehicle behind another vehicle, such as behind a motor home. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as dinghy towing and dolly towing. Dinghy towing is towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Dolly towing is towing the vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a dolly. Here are some important things to consider before recreational vehicle towing: . What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure to read the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

. What is the distance that will be

traveled? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow.

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Is the proper towing equipment going to be used? See your dealer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations. Is the vehicle ready to be towed? Just as preparing the vehicle for a long trip, make sure the vehicle is prepared to be towed.

Dinghy Towing

Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles { Caution

Dolly Towing

Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground)

If the vehicle is towed with all four wheels on the ground, the drivetrain components could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not tow the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground.

The vehicle should not be towed with all four wheels on the ground.

Use the following procedure to tow the vehicle from the rear: 1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.

2. Drive the rear wheels onto the

dolly.

3. Firmly set the parking brake.

See Parking Brake on page 9-29.

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4. Put the transmission in P (Park). 5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly

following the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Use an adequate clamping

device designed for towing to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position. 7. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

If the tow vehicle will not be started or driven for six weeks or more, remove the battery cable from the negative terminal (post) of the battery to prevent the battery from draining while towing.

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

Locks Locks are lubricated at the factory. Use a de-icing agent only when absolutely necessary, and have the locks greased after using. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-10. Washing the Vehicle To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash it often and out of direct sunlight.

{ Caution

Do not use petroleum-based, acidic, or abrasive cleaning agents as they can damage the vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic parts. If damage occurs, it would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Approved cleaning

(Continued)

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Caution (Continued)

products can be obtained from your dealer. Follow all manufacturer directions regarding correct product usage, necessary safety precautions, and appropriate disposal of any vehicle care product.

{ Caution Avoid using high-pressure washes closer than 30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the vehicle. Use of power washers exceeding 8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result in damage or removal of paint and decals.

The e symbol is on any underhood compartment electrical center that should not be power

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washed. This could cause damage that would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. If using an automatic car wash, follow the car wash instructions. The windshield wiper and rear window wiper, if equipped, must be off. Remove any accessories that may be damaged or interfere with the car wash equipment. Rinse the vehicle well, before washing and after, to remove all cleaning agents completely. If they are allowed to dry on the surface, they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting. Finish Care Application of aftermarket clearcoat sealant/wax materials is not recommended. If painted surfaces are damaged, see your dealer to have the damage assessed and repaired. Foreign materials such as

calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage the vehicle's finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Occasional hand waxing or mild polishing should be done to remove residue from the paint finish. See your dealer for approved cleaning products. Do not apply waxes or polishes to uncoated plastic, vinyl, rubber, decals, simulated wood, or flat paint as damage can occur.

{ Caution Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish

(Continued)

Caution (Continued)

may damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are made for a basecoat/ clearcoat paint finish on the vehicle.

To keep the paint finish looking new, keep the vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible.

Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Moldings

{ Caution

Failure to clean and protect the bright metal moldings can result in a hazy white finish or pitting. This damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

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The bright metal moldings on the vehicle are aluminum. To prevent damage always follow these cleaning instructions: . Be sure the molding is cool to the touch before applying any cleaning solution.

. Use a cleaning solution

approved for aluminum. Some cleaners are highly acidic or contain alkaline substances and can damage the moldings.

. Always dilute a concentrated

cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

. Do not use chrome cleaners. . Do not use cleaners that are not

intended for automotive use.

. Use a nonabrasive wax on the vehicle after washing to protect and extend the molding finish.

Cleaning Exterior Lamps/ Lenses, Emblems, Decals and Stripes Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth, and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps, lenses, emblems, decals and stripes. Follow instructions under "Washing the Vehicle" previously in this section. Lamp covers are made of plastic, and some have a UV protective coating. Do not clean or wipe them while they are dry. Do not use any of the following on lamp covers: . Abrasive or caustic agents. . Washer fluids and other cleaning

agents in higher concentrations than suggested by the manufacturer.

. Solvents, alcohols, fuels, or other harsh cleaners. Ice scrapers or other hard items.

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. Aftermarket appearance caps or

covers while the lamps are illuminated, due to excessive heat generated.

{ Caution

Failure to clean lamps properly can cause damage to the lamp cover that would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

{ Caution

Using wax on low gloss black finish stripes can increase the gloss level and create a non-uniform finish. Clean low gloss stripes with soap and water only.

Air Intakes Clear debris from the air intakes, between the hood and windshield when washing the vehicle.

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Windshield and Wiper Blades Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner. Clean rubber blades using a lint-free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. Wash the windshield thoroughly when cleaning the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause wiper streaking. Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or damaged. Damage can be caused by extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun, snow, and ice. Weatherstrips Apply Dielectric silicone grease on weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips at least once a year. Hot, dry climates may require more frequent application. Black marks from rubber material on painted surfaces

can be removed by rubbing with a clean cloth. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-10. Tires Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean the tires.

{ Caution

Using petroleum-based tire dressing products on the vehicle may damage the paint finish and/ or tires. When applying a tire dressing, always wipe off any overspray from all painted surfaces on the vehicle.

Wheels and Trim — Aluminum or Chrome Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and water to clean the wheels. After rinsing thoroughly with clean water, dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax may then be applied.

{ Caution

Chrome wheels and other chrome trim may be damaged if the vehicle is not washed after driving on roads that have been sprayed with magnesium, calcium, or sodium chloride. These chlorides are used on roads for conditions such as ice and dust. Always wash the chrome with soap and water after exposure.

{ Caution

To avoid surface damage, do not use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes, or cleaners that contain acid on aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. Use only approved cleaners. Also, never drive a vehicle with aluminum or chrome-plated wheels through an (Continued)

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Caution (Continued)

automatic car wash that uses silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes. Damage could occur and the repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Steering, Suspension, and Chassis Components Visually inspect steering, suspension, and chassis components for damaged, loose, or missing parts or signs of wear at least once a year. Inspect power steering for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Visually check constant velocity joint boots and axle seals for leaks. For 2500/3500 Series vehicles, at least every other engine oil change lubricate the upper and lower control arm ball joints.

For 2500/3500 Series vehicles equipped with steering linkage, at least every other engine oil change lubricate the tie rod ball joints, idler arm pivot shaft bearings, idler arm socket, and pitman arm socket.

{ Caution

Lubrication of applicable Steering/ Suspension points should not be done unless temperature is -12°C (10°F) or higher, or damage could result.

Body Component Lubrication Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the fuel door hinge unless the components are plastic. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.

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Underbody Maintenance At least twice a year, Spring and Fall, use plain water to flush dirt and debris from the vehicle's underbody. Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can do this. If not removed, rust and corrosion can develop. Sheet Metal Damage If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide the corrosion protection while maintaining the vehicle warranty. Finish Damage Quickly repair minor chips and scratches with touch-up materials available from your dealer to avoid

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corrosion. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your dealer's body and paint shop. Chemical Paint Spotting Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted vehicle surfaces causing blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface. See “Finish Care” previously in this section.

Interior Care To prevent dirt particle abrasions, regularly clean the vehicle's interior. Immediately remove any soils. Note that newspapers or dark garments that can transfer color to home furnishings can also permanently transfer color to the vehicle's interior. Use a soft bristle brush to remove dust from knobs and crevices on the instrument cluster. Using a mild soap solution, immediately remove

hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect repellent from all interior surfaces or permanent damage may result. Your dealer may have products for cleaning the interior. Use cleaners specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned to prevent permanent damage. Apply all cleaners directly to the cleaning cloth. Do not spray cleaners directly on any switches or controls. Cleaners should be removed quickly. Never allow cleaners to remain on the surface being cleaned for extended periods of time. Cleaners may contain solvents that can become concentrated in the interior. Before using cleaners, read and adhere to all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning the interior, maintain adequate ventilation by opening the doors and windows.

To prevent damage, do not clean the interior using the following cleaners or techniques: . Never use a razor or any other

sharp object to remove a soil from any interior surface.

. Never use a brush with stiff

bristles.

. Never rub any surface

aggressively or with excessive pressure.

. Do not use laundry detergents or

dishwashing soaps with degreasers. For liquid cleaners, use approximately 20 drops per 3.8 L (1 gal) of water. A concentrated soap solution will leave a residue that creates streaks and attracts dirt. Do not use solutions that contain strong or caustic soap.

. Do not heavily saturate the upholstery when cleaning.

. Do not use solvents or cleaners

containing solvents.

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Interior Glass To clean, use a terry cloth fabric dampened with water. Wipe droplets left behind with a clean dry cloth. Commercial glass cleaners may be used, if necessary, after cleaning the interior glass with plain water.

{ Caution

To prevent scratching, never use abrasive cleaners on automotive glass. Abrasive cleaners or aggressive cleaning may damage the rear window defogger.

Cleaning the windshield with water during the first three to six months of ownership will reduce tendency to fog. Speaker Covers Vacuum around a speaker cover gently, so that the speaker will not be damaged. Clean spots with just water and mild soap.

Coated Moldings Coated moldings should be cleaned. . When lightly soiled, wipe with a

sponge or soft lint-free cloth dampened with water.

. When heavily soiled, use warm

soapy water.

Fabric/Carpet/Suede Start by vacuuming the surface using a soft brush attachment. If a rotating brush attachment is being used during vacuuming, only use it on the floor carpet. Before cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as possible using one of the following techniques: . Gently blot liquids with a paper towel. Continue blotting until no more soil can be removed. For solid soils, remove as much as possible prior to vacuuming.

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To clean: 1. Saturate a clean lint-free colorfast cloth with water. Microfiber cloth is recommended to prevent lint transfer to the fabric or carpet.

2. Remove excess moisture by

gently wringing until water does not drip from the cleaning cloth. 3. Start on the outside edge of the

soil and gently rub toward the center. Rotate the cleaning cloth to a clean area frequently to prevent forcing the soil in to the fabric.

4. Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no longer any color transfer from the soil to the cleaning cloth. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution followed only by plain water.

5.

If the soil is not completely removed, it may be necessary to use a commercial upholstery

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cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small hidden area for colorfastness before using a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter. If ring formation occurs, clean the entire fabric or carpet. Following the cleaning process, a paper towel can be used to blot excess moisture. Cleaning High Gloss Surfaces and Vehicle Information and Radio Displays For vehicles with high gloss surfaces or vehicle displays, use a microfiber cloth to wipe surfaces. Before wiping the surface with the microfiber cloth, use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt that could scratch the surface. Then use the microfiber cloth by gently rubbing to clean. Never use window cleaners or solvents. Periodically hand wash the microfiber cloth separately, using mild soap. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Rinse thoroughly and air dry before next use.

{ Caution

Do not attach a device with a suction cup to the display. This may cause damage and would not be covered by the warranty.

Instrument Panel, Leather, Vinyl, Other Plastic Surfaces, Low Gloss Paint Surfaces and Natural Open Pore Wood Surfaces Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with water to remove dust and loose dirt. For a more thorough cleaning, use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with a mild soap solution.

{ Caution

Soaking or saturating leather, especially perforated leather, as well as other interior surfaces,

(Continued)

Caution (Continued)

may cause permanent damage. Wipe excess moisture from these surfaces after cleaning and allow them to dry naturally. Never use heat, steam, spot lifters, or spot removers. Do not use cleaners that contain silicone or wax-based products. Cleaners containing these solvents can permanently change the appearance and feel of leather or soft trim and are not recommended.

Do not use cleaners that increase gloss, especially on the instrument panel. Reflected glare can decrease visibility through the windshield under certain conditions.