1995 GMC Sierra Owners Manual

GMC TRUCK

. . . .

8 .

Supplement to the 1995 C/K Series, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, Safari, Astro, Rally, Vandura, Chevrolet Van, Lumina Minivan and Trans Sport Owner’s Manuals

This supplement includes the latest information at the time of printing. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehiclescfirst sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada” for General Motors wherever it appears in this manual.

@Copyright 1995 General Motors Corporation. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A. General Motors, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, Safari, Astro, Rally, Vandura, Chevrolet Van, Lumina Minivan and Trans Sport are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation.

STFF7S

As of September 1, 1995, this information replaces Step 7 of the “Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position” portion of your owner’s manual on the following pages, depending on your vehicle: CIK Series, Sierra: 1-39 Suburban, Tahoe and Yukon: 1-45 Rally, Vandura and Chevy Van: 1-36 Astro and Safari: 1-37 Lumina and Trans Sport: 1-56

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it

is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

For 4-DOOr Utility Models:

A. Hoist Assembly B. Hoist Shaft C. Ratchet D, Jack Handle E. Retainer E Valve Stem, Pointed Down G. Spare Tire

Follow these instructions to lower the spare tire: 1. One side of the ratchet has an UP marking. The other side has a DOWN

marking. Assemble the ratchet to the hook near the end of the jack handle (as illustrated) with the DOWN marking facing you. Insert the other end through the hole in the rear bumper and into the hoist shaft.

2. Turn the ratchet to lower the spare tire to the ground. Continue to turn the

ratchet until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle.

3. When the tire has been lowered, tilt

the retainer at the end of the cable so

it can be pulled up through

the wheel opening.

To Restore Spare or Flat Tire: 1. Lay the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle. Position the tire so

that the valve stem is pointed down and to the rear.

2. Tilt the retainer downward and through the wheel opening. Make sure the

retainer is fully seated across the underside of the wheel.

3. Attach the ratchet, with the UP marking facing you, near the hook at the

end of the jack handle as illustrated. Insert the other end, on an angle, through the hole in the rear bumper and into the hoist shaft.

4. Raise the tire fully against the underside of vehicle. Continue turning the

ratchet until there are two “clicks” or “ratchets.” The spare tire hoist cannot be over-tightened.

5. Grasp and push against the tire to be sure it is stored securely and does

not move.

Table of Contents Introduction - How to Use this Manual

This section tells you how to use your manual and includes safety and vehicle damage warnings and symbols.

Section 1 - Seats and Restraint Systems

This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the air ba, 0 s -y stem.

Section 2 - Features & Controls

This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle. Section 3 - Comfort Controls & Audio Systems

This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system. Section 4 - Your Driving and the Road

Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. Section 5 - Problems on the Road

This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or engine overheating. etc.

Section 6 - Service & Appearance Care

Here the manual tells you how to keep your vehicle running properly and looking good.

Section 7 - Maintenance Schedule

This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

Section 8 - Customer Assistance Information

This section tells you how to contact GM for assistance and how to L get service publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-4.

Index

Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

Introduction 1995 GMC Truck Sierra Owner’s Manual Welcome This manual was prepared to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your 1995 GMC Truck Sierra and to provide important safety information. There is also a GMC Truck Warranty and Owner Assistance Information booklet. In some vehicles, there can be information manuals from other manufacturers like body builders or special equipment companies. We urge you to review all these publications carefully. This will help you enjoy safe and trouble-free operation of your vehicle. When it comes to service, keep in mind that your GMC Truck dealer knows your vehicle best and is interested in your complete satisfxtion. Your dealer invites you to return for all of your service needs both during and after the warranty period. Remember, if you have a concern and need help handling it to your satisfaction, see the procedure in the GMC Truck Warranty and Owner Assistance Information booklet. Thanks for choosing a GMC Truck product. We value you as a member of the GMC Truck family. We want to assure you of our continuing interest in your pleasure and satisfaction with your vehicle.

GMC Truck Division

General Motors Corporation

Pontiac, Michigan

@Copyright 1994 General Motors Corporation, GMC Truck Division.

All Rights Reserved

Second Edition

Printed in U.S.A.

.. 11

Important Notes to Owners and Drivers About This Manual Please keep this manual in your vehicle so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for GMC Truck Division whenever it appears in this manual.

W E SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

National Institute for

AUTOMOTIVE

SERVICE

EXCELLENCE

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux pr-opr-i&taires canacliem: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en franqais chez votre concessionaire ou au DGN Marketing Services Ltd., 1500 Bonhill Rd., Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7.

General Motors, GM and the GM Emblem, GMC, and Sierra are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation.

... 111

Model Reference This manual covers these models:

Regular Cab Pickup

Extended Cab Pickup

Crew Cab

Chassis Cab

3500 HD Chassis Cab

iv

How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. This will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. INDEX: A good place to look for what you need is the Index in back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box with gray background and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

A CAUTION:

These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.

~~

~~

~ ~ _ _ _ _

In the gray caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt. You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,‘‘ “Don’t do this,” or “Don’t let this happen.”

Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices:

NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use yellow for cautions, blue for notices and the words CAUTION or NOTICE.

Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you will find on your vehicle. For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:

Cauflon

Possible Injury

Protect Eyes by Shielding

Caustic Battery Acid Could Cause Burns

Spark or Flame Could

Explode Battery

Avoid Sparks

or Flames

Vi

These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:

~~

~ Fasten Safety

Belts

Door Lock/Unlock

These symbols have to do with your lights:

Master Lighting

Switch

Turn Signal Direction

Hazard Warning

Flasher

Headlight High Beam

Fog Lights

Daytime

Running Lights

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These symbols are on some of your controls:

uu

Windshield

Wiper

Windshield

Washer

Windshield Defroster

Rear Window

Defogger

Ventilating Fan

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Engine Coolant Temperature

~~ Battery Charging

System

Fuel

Engine Oil Pressure

BRAKE

Brake

ANTI- LOCK

4 Wheel Anti-Lock

SHIFT

Shift Lighf

Parking Brake

Release

. .. Vlll

Here are some other symbols you may see: El 1 le

fuse

Lighter

Horn

Speaker

Hood Release

ix

Notes

Seats and Restraint Systems

Section

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats - how to adjust them, and fold them up and down. It also tells you about reclining front seatbacks and head restraints.

Manual Front Seat

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If your vehicle has a manual bucket, split bench, or full bench seat, you can adjust it with this lever at the front of the seat.

Slide the lever at the front of the seat toward the passenger side to unlock it. Using your body, slide the seat to where you want it. Then, release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked in place.

Power Driver's Seat (Option)

If your vehicle has a power seat on the driver's side, you can adjust it with this switch at the outside edge of the seat.

You can use the round center switch knob to move the seat where you want it. To raise the seat, move the knob up. To lower the seat, move the knob down. To move the seat forward, move the knob toward the front of the vehicle. To move the seat rearward, move the knob toward the rear of the vehicle. You can also raise and lower the front and rear of the seat. To raise the front of the seat, move the front switch lever up. To lower the front of the seat, move the front switch lever down. To raise the rear of the seat, move the rear switch lever up. To lower the rear of the seat, move the rear switch lever down.

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Power Lumbar Adjustment

If you have power lumbar adjustment, you can increase or decrease lumbar support in an area of the lower seatback.

To increase support, press and hold the front of the rocker switch. Let go of the switch when the lower seatback reaches the desired level To decrease support, press and hold the rear of the rocker switch. Let go of the switch when the lower seatback reaches the desired level of support.

of support.

Reclining Front Seatbacks

To adjust the seatback, lift the front of this lever.

Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull up on the front of the lever and the seatback will go to an upright position.

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But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

A CAUTION:

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. a crash the belt could go The lap belt can’t do its job either. In at up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

Seatback Latches (Base Level Bench Seat) The front seatback folds forward to let you access the rear of the cab. Your seatback will move back and forth freely, unless you come to a sudden stop. Then it will lock in place. If you have a Crew Cab, your front seatback is designed not to fold forward. Access to the rear of the cab is available by using the rear doors.

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Seatback Latches (All Except Base Level Bench Seat) The front seatback folds forward to let you access the rear of the cab. If you have a Crew Cab, your front seatback is designed not to fold forward. Access to the rear of the cab is available by using the rear doors.

I To fold a seatback

forward, pull this lever forward and fold the seatback forward.

To return the seatback to the upright position, just push the seatback rearward until it latches. After returning the seatback to its upright position, pull the seatback forward to make sure it is locked.

A CAUTION:

If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward 011 the seatback to be sure it is locked.

Easy Entry Seat (Extended Cab On/y) The driver and passenger front bucket seat and the 60/40 split bench seat of your vehicle has an easy entry feature. This makes it easy to get in and out of the rear seat.

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To operate the seat, pull forward on the top of the lever, located at the side of the seatback, and tilt the back forward toward the front of the vehicle.

When you do, the seat bottom will release. Just pull or push the seat forward until it stops.

To return the seat to its regular position, return the seatback to its upright position, then push the whole seat rearward until it latches. After returning the seat to its regular position, try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

A CAUTION:

If any easy entry seat isn’t locked, it can move. In a sudden stop even if or crash, the person sitting there could be injured. And, there is no crash or sudden stop, a driver sitting in an unlocked easy entry seat could be startled by the sudden movement and hit the wrong control or pedal, causing an accident. After you’ve used it, be sure to push rearward on any easy entry seat to be sure it is locked.

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Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

Rear Folding Seat (Extended Cab) The extended cab may have a rear folding seat which can be folded open for more seating space.

To use the seat, pull the entire seat forward until it is flat. Then, pull forward on the RELEASE lever at the side of the seat cushion, located behind the passenger side front seat. Push the seatback rearward until it latches.

After pushing the seatback upright into position, pull the seatback forward to make sure it is locked.

To store the seat, pull forward on the RELEASE lever at the side of the seat cushion, behind the passenger side front seat. Fold the seatback forward until it latches with the seat cushion. Lift the entire seat and push it rearward into place.

Make sure the seat is secure.

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Rear Seat (Crew Cab) You can adjust the seat by sliding the lever at the front of the seat toward the seat support to unlock it. Then, slide the seat to where you want it. Release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

Seatback Latch (Rear Bench Seat Without Center Armrest) The rear seatback can be folded forward to let you reach the area behind it. Your seatback will move back and forth freely, unless you come to a sudden stop. Then, it will lock into place.

Seatback Latch (Rear Bench Seat With Center Armrest) The rear seatback folds forward to let you access the area behind it.

To fold a seatback forward, pull this lever forward and fold the seatback forward.

To return the seatback to the upright position, just push the seatback rearward until it latches. After returning the seatback to its upright position, pull the seatback forward to make sure it is locked.

A CAUTION:

If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure

it is locked.

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Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint, or “air bag” system.

A CAUTION:

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

if you are buckled

YOLE vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.) In many states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here‘s why: They 1.zvl-k. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 25 years of safety belts i n vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

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Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

Put someone on it.

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop.

.......... ..-.........

-.

,.

. . . .

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'' The person keeps

going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the

L I windshield . . .

or the instrument panel ...

or the safety belts!

With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That's why safety belts make such good sense.

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Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts - and the Answers Q: A:

Won ’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be - whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted. Why don’t they just put in air bags so people won’t have to wear safety belts? Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in more of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts - not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions. If I’m a good drive4 and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident - even one that isn’t your fault - you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone.

Q: A:

Q: A:

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.

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Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly.

1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index) so you can sit up

straight.

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let the belt

get twisted.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull

up on the latch

plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender’’ at the end of this section.

Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the bhdy are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection

this way.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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Q: What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is over an armrest.

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Q: What’s wrong with this? 8

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the

shoulder at all times.

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your a m . In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way.

Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

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Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System (SW This part explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system, or air bag.

Your vehicle may have an air bag for the driver. If it does, it will say Supplemental Inflatable Restraint on the middle part of the steering wheel. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

A CAUTION:

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt - even if you have an air bag. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air bag is only a “supplemental restraint.” That is, it works with safety belts but doesn’t replace them. Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side, or low-speed frontal crashes. Everyone in your vehicle, including the driver, should wear a safety belt properly - whether or not there’s an air bag for that person.

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A CAUTION:

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag, and sit as far back as you can while still maintaining control of your vehicle.

There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag‘s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the index for more information.

How the Air Bag System Works

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Where is the air bag? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

Don’t put anything on, or attach anything to, the steering wheel. Also, don’t put anything (such as pets or objects) between the driver and the steering wheel. If something is between an occupant and an air bag, it could affect the performance of the air bag - or worse, it could cause injury.

When should an air bag inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 12 to 16 mph (19 to 26 k d h ) . The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle damage is only one indication of this. The air bag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage. Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain. As always, wear your safety belt. See “Off-Road Driving” in the Index for more tips on off-road driving. What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag, and related hardware are all part of the air bag module packed inside the steering wheel. How does an air bag restrain? rn moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the

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impact more evenly over the occ.upant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers and rear and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions. What will you see after an air bag inflates? After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub will be hot for a short time, but the part of the bag that comes into contact with you will not be hot to the touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bag. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

A CAUTION:

When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle is safe to do so. If you have breathing should get out as soon as it problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

The air bag is designed to inflate only once. After it inflates, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include the air bag module and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

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NOTICE: If you damage the cover for the driver’s air bag, it may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module. Do not open or break the air bag cover.

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle The air bag affects how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your GM dealer and the 1995 GM Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see ”Service Publications” in the Index. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

A CAUTION:

For up to 2 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape, or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.

Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Q: If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the front of my vehicle,

will it keep the air bag from working properly?

A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle‘s basic structure isn’t changed. it‘s not likely to keep the air bags from working properly in a crash.

Q: What if I add a w o w plow? Will it keep the air bag from working

properly?

A: We’ve designed our air bag systems to work properly under a wide range of conditions. including snow plowing with vehicles equipped with the optional Snow Plow Prep Package (RPO VYU). But don’t change or defeat the snow plow’s “tripping mechanism.” If you do, it can damage your snow plow and your vehicle, and it may cause an air bag inflation.

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Q: Is there anything I might add to the front of the vehicle that could

keep the air bag from working properly?

A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle's frame, bumper system. front end sheet metal or height. they may keep the air bag system f'rom working properly. Also. the air bag system may not work properly if you relocate any of the air bag sensors. If you have any question about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify your vehicle. (The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure i n this m a n u a l . See "Customer Satistiaction Procedure" in the Index.)

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants. they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don't wear safety belts. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt. and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible throughout the pregnancy.

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it's more likely that the fetus won't be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

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Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this section. When the lap portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt If your vehicle has front and rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions.

When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.

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Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. Tf the belt isn‘t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender“ at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.

Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions (Extended Cab)

If you have a Crew Cab, see “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions (Crew Cab)” later in this section.

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Lap-Shoulder Belt (Extended Cab) The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here's how to wear one properly.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don't let the belt

get twisted.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. If the belt stops

before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see "Safety Belt Extender" at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips. just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash.

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

To unlatch the belt, just push the button the buckle.

on

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Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions (Crew Cab)

If you have an Extended Cab, see "Rex Seat Outside Passenger Positions (Extended Cab)" earlier in this section.

Lap-Shoulder Belt (Crew Cab) The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here's how to wear one properly.

1 . Pick LIP the latch plate and pull the bell ~ w - o s s y o u . Don't let the belt

get twisted.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make wre it is secure. When the lap belt is pulled out a l l the way, it w i l l lock. If it does, let it go back a l l the way and start again. If the belt is not long enough, see "Safety Belt Extender" at the end of this section.

1-29

Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

,' --\

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks only if there's a sudden stop or a crash.

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt crash you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

is too loose. In a

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Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and dl children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies

A CAUTION:

Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained in a child or infant restraint.

1-31

A CAUTION:

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much - until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-pound (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-pound (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

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Child Restraints Be sure to follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet. or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle. but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the. i n h n t or child restraint will show you how to do that. Where to Put the Restraint (Except Extended Cab and Crew Cab) The child restraint must be secured properly in the center or right front passenger seat.

Where to Put the Restraint (Extended Cab and Crew Cab) Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in the rear seat unless the child is an infant and you’re the only adult in the vehicle. In that case. you night want to secure the restraint in the front seat where you can keep an eye on the baby. Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle - even when no child is in it. Top Strap

If your child restraint has a top strap. it should be anchored.

If you need to have an anchor installed. you can ask your GM dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it.

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position (Extended Cab)

If you have a Crew Cab, see “Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position (Crew Cab)” later in this section. You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child

restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say.

3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the

vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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4.

Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5.

To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint.

.....

Make sure the buckle end of the belt is pulled out all the way.

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is

secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position (Crew Cab)

If you have an Extended Cab, see "Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position (Extended Cab)" earlier in this section. You'll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child

restrainf.

2. Secure the child i n the child restraint as the instructions say. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the

vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child's face or neck. put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt.

Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

1-36

5.

the

Pull the rest of the lap belt all way out of the retractor to set the lock.

6.

To tighten the belt. feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is

secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child

restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say.

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4. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child

restraint instructions will show you how.

5. Buckle the belt.

Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child

restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. If the child restraint isn’t secure, turn the latch plate over and buckle it again. Then see if it is secure. If it isn‘t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

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1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for th.e child

restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the

vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt.

Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5. Pull the rest of

the lap belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.

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6. To tighten the

belt, feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it

is

secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

Larger Children

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

vehicle’s

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Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly.

Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.

A CAUTION:

Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.

Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so

small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the

shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in a seat that has a lap belt, if your vehicle has one.

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A CAUTION:

Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash. Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extende.r. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt.

1-43

Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure all your belts. buckles. latch plates, retractors, anchorages and reminder systems are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged restraint system parts. If you see anything that might keep a restraint system from doing its job. have it repaired. Torn or frayed belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Replacing Seat and Restraint System Parts After a Crash lf you've had a crash. do you need new belts'? After a very minor collision. nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If you ever see a label on the right front passenger's safety belt in an Extended Cab model that says to replace the belt. be sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help protect you in an accident. You would see this label on the belt near the door opening.

If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn't being used at the time o f the collision.

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Before replacing any safety belt, see your dealer for the correct part number. You’ll need the model year and model number for your vehicle. The model year is on your title and registration. And you can find the model number on the CertificatiodTire label of your vehicle. See “Certification/Tire Label“ in the Index.

The model number on the replacement belt may be listed on the safety belt you want to replace. Pull the lap belt a l l the way out to see this label. If there is no model number listed on the safety belt, see your dealer to make sure you get the correct part number for the replacement belt.

1-45

Notes

1-46

Features and Controls

Section

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly - and what to do if you have a problem. Keys

t A CAUTION:

Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.

2- 1

Your vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition and all door locks.

If you ever lose your keys, your dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining new ones.

I NOTICE:

Your vehicle has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your key inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have an extra key.

2-2

Your Doors and How They Work Side Doors

To open the door from the outside. pull the handle up and pull the door open.

To open the door from the inside. pull the lever toward you and push the door open.

2-3

Tailgate

You can open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle while pulling the tailgate toward you.

To shut the tailgate, firmly push it away from you into the latch. When you put the tailgate back up, pull it back toward you, to be sure that latches securely.

it

Tailgate Removal The tailgate on your vehicle can be removed to allow for different loading situations. Although the tailgate can be removed without assistance, you may want someone to assist you with the removal to avoid possible finish damage. To remove the tailgate:

Raise the tailgate slightly and release both retaining cable clips. To release the cable clips, lift the cable so it points straight out and push the cable clips forward.

2-4

0 With the tailgate at a slight upward angle, pull back on the tailgate at the right edge and then move the tailgate to the right, to release the left edge.

Reverse the above procedure to re-install. Make sure the tailgate is secure. Door Locks

A CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers - especially children - can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.

2-5

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle:

._I

Power Door Locks (Option)

From the inside: To lock the door, slide the lever on your door down. To unlock the door, slide the lever up.

Press the side of the power door lock switch, marked LOCK, on either front door to lock all the doors at once. Press the ribbed side of the switch to unlock all the doors at once.

On Crew Cab models, the switch on each rear door works only that door’s lock. It won’t lock (or unlock) all of the doors - that’s a safety feature.

2-6

Leaving Your Vehicle It' you are leaving the vehicle. take your keys. open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. Keyless Entry System If your vehicle has this option. you can lock and unlock your doors from up to 30 feet (9 m ) away usins the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your Keyless Entry System operates on ;I radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules. This device complies with Part IS of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: ( I ) This device may not cause harmful interference. and (2) This device must accept any interterence received, including interference that may C ~ L I S ~ Should interference to this system occur. try this:

undesired operation.

0 Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the

instructions on battery replacement. Check the distance. You nay be too far from your vehicle. This product has a maximum range.

0 Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal 0 See your GM dealer or a qualified technician for service.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.

Operation To unlock the driver's door. press the UNLOCK button. If you press this button again within five seconds, all the doors will unlock. Press the LOCK button to lock a l l the doors. The illuminated entry feature activates the interior dome lamps for 40 seconds or until the ignition switch is turned on.

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen. a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, the remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once the new transmitte.r is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle.

2-7

You can match a transmitter to as many difl:rent vehicles as you own. provided they are equipped with tJ.wctlJ* the s m 1 c rrlotlol y*sttw. (General Motors offers several different rnodels 01' these systems on their vehicles.) Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched t o it. See your dealer to match transmitters to another vehicle. Bafiery Replacement

You can tell the batteries are weak if the transmitter won't work a t the normul range i n any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it's probably time to change the battcries. Use two DLKKXII@ type DL20 16. or a similar type. To replace the batteries:

3 -.

3.

Insert a dime i n the sidc seam of the transmitter housing near the key rins hole. Twist the dime t o separate the two halves of the transmitter housing. Separate the housing, bottom half first. Remove and replace the batteries. Put the new batteries i n with the printed side down. Align the housing and snap the halves together.

4. Theft Vehicle theft is big business. especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features. we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help.

2-8

Key in the Ignition If you walk away from your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves - so don’t do it. When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door, you‘ll hear a tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition. If you have an automatic transmission, taking your key out also locks your transmission. And remember to lock the doors.

Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.

Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it‘s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle?

Put your valuables in a storage area, like your glove box. Lock all the doors except the driver’s. New Vehicle “Break-In ”

NOTICE: Your modern vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run guidelines:

if you follow these

Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t drive at any one speed - fast or slow - for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this “breaking-in” guideline every time you get new brake linings. Don’t tow a trailer during “break-in.” See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

2-9

New Vehicle “Break-In” - 3500 HD Model If you have a 3500 HD model, your parking brake requires a special break-in procedure. See “Parking Brake” in the Index. Ignition Switch Use your key to start your vehicle. The key lets you turn the ignition switch to five different positions:

1. OFF 2. RUN 3. START 4. ACC 5. LOCK

ACC (Accessory): ACC lets you use things like the radio, power windows and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. To get into ACC, push in the key and turn it toward you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key. LOCK: This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transmission. It’s a theft deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. OFF: This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like LOCK. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is off (for example, if your vehicle is being pushed). RUN: This is the position for driving. START: This starts your engine.

2- 10

ITICE:

If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t turn it, be sure it is all the way in. If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. But turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.

Key Release Button

The ignition key cannot be removed from the ignition of manual transmission vehicles unless the key release button is used.

To Remove the Key On manual transmission vehicles, turn the key to the LOCK position while pressing the key release button in (see the caution earlier in this section about the key release lever). Keeping your finger on the button, pull the key straight out. On automatic transmission vehicles, turn the key to LOCK and pull it straight cwt.

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Starting Your Gasoline Engine If you have a diesel engine, see “Starting Your Diesel Engine” in the Index. Engines start differently. The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) shows the code letter or number for your engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of your instrument panel. (See “Vehicle Identification Number” in the Index.) Follow the proper steps to start the engine. Automatic trunsnaission: Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position - that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL (N). Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down - that’s a safety feature. To start y m r 4.3 Liter V6 (Code Z ) or 5.0 Liter V8 (Code H ) engine: 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to

START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor.

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in START. If it doesn’t start

in three seconds, push the accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down for 12 more seconds, or until it starts.

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be

flooded with too much gasoline. Try this:

4. Wait 15 seconds to let the starter motor cool down. Then push your

accelerator pedal all the way to the floor. Hold it there. Then, hold the

2- 12

key in START for no more than ten seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. If the engine still doesn’t start, wait another 15 seconds and do Step 4 again. When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the fuel injection system operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see t,he part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

If you don’t, your

To start your 5.7 Liter (Code K) or 7.4 Liter (Code N ) V8 engine:

1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to

START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor.

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in START. If it doesn’t start

in three seconds, push the accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down for 12 more seconds, or until it starts.

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be

flooded with too much gasoline. Try this:

4. Wait 15 seconds to let the starter motor cool down. Then push your

accelerator pedal all the way to the floor. Hold it there. Then hold the key in START for no more than ten seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. If the engine still doesn’t start, wait another 15 seconds and do Step 4 again.

When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

2- 13

Hot Engine Restart (Vehicles With 5.7L LO5 Engine and Over 8500 lbs. GVWR): If your engine is already hot and then stalls, turn your ignition key to OFF. Then turn your key to RUN and wait 20 seconds before you restart your engine. When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the fuel injection system operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

Driving Through Deep Standing Water

NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very

slowly.

Driving In Snow (Diesel Engines) When driving in a heavy snowstorm or in swirling snow with a diesel engine, snow can get into the air intake system. If you keep driving in these conditions the air cleaner may get plugged, causing black smoke and loss of power. In an emergency, if the air cleaner gets plugged with snow, you can remove the air cleaner. Then, drive to a place of safety as soon as possible and put the air cleaner back on. Starting Your Diesel Engine Your diesel engine starts differently than a gasoline engine. 1. Automatic transmission: Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or

NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position - that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

2- 14

NOTICE: Don't try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

2. M m L w l ~ I - ~ ~ C Z . S I ~ ~ ~ . Y S ~ ~ C Z :

Move your shift lever to NEUTRAL ( N ) and

hold the clutch pedal to the floor while starting the engine. Your vehicle won't start if the clutch pedal is not all the wlay down - that's a safety feature. Turn your ignition key to RUN. Observe the GLOW PLUGS light. (This light may not come on if the engine is hot.)

NOTICE: If the GLOW PLUGS light stays on, it means that your vehicle could have one of several problems, so you should have it serviced right away.

3. As soon a s the GLOW PLUGS light goes off. IMMEDIATELY turn the ignition key t o START. When the engine starts. let go of the key. (The longer you wait to start after the light goes off, the harder it will be to start the engine.)

NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor.

4. If the engine does not start after IS seconds of cranking. turn the

ignition key to OFF. Wait one minute for the starter to cool. then try the same steps again.

If you're trying t o start your engine after you've run o u t of fuel. follocv the steps i n "Running Out of Fuel" (see "Diesel Fuel Requirements and Fuel System" in the Index). When Y O L I ~ engine is cold. let it run for a few minutes before you move your vehicle. This lets oil pressure build up. Your engine will sound louder when it's cold.

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NOTICE: If you’re not in an idling vehicle and the engine overheats, you wouldn’t be there to see the coolant temperature gage. This could damage your vehicle. Don’t let your engine run when you’re not in your vehicle.

Cold Weather Starting (Diesel Engine) The following tips will help you get good starting in cold weather. Use SAE IOW-30 oil when the outside temperature drops below freezing. When the outside temperature drops below 0°F (-1 floc), use your engine coolant heater. If you park your vehicle in a garage, you shouldn’t need to use the coolant heater until the garage temperature goes below 0°F (-I SOC), no matter how cold it is outside. To use the engine coolant heater, first turn off the engine. Then open the hood, unwrap the electrical cord and plug it in. It uses normal house voltage

( I 10 volts), but: A CAUTION:

Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

NOTICE: After you’ve used the coolant heater, be sure to store the cord in the manner it was, to help keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don’t, it could be torn and damaged.

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How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the weather, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Follow this chart.

Viscosity/ Oil Grade

32°F to 0°F (0°C to -18°C)

SAE 1 OW-30 SAE 15W-40

Not

Required

Not

Required

0°F to -10°F (-18OC to -23 O C) Two Hours:!: Two Hours‘%

Below -10°F Below -23” C

Eight Hours’> or Overnight Eight Hours* or Overnight

’%The times listed are minimum times. It will not harm either the coolant heater or the vehicle to leave the coolant heater plugged in longer than the times stated. See “Diesel Fuel Requirements and Fuel System’’ in the Index for information on what fuel to use in cold weather.

If Your Diesel Engine Won’t Start If you‘ve run out of fuel, look at “Running Out of Fuel” (see “Diesel Fuel Requirements and Fuel System” in the Index). If you‘re not out of fuel, and your engine won’t start, do this: Turn your ignition key to RUN. Make sure that the GLOW PLUGS light is out. Then IMMEDIATELY turn the ignition key to START. If the light doesn’t go off, wait a few seconds, then try starting your engine again. And, see your dealer as soon as you can for a starting system check. If the light comes on and then goes off and you know your batteries are charged, but your engine still won’t start, your vehicle needs service. If the light does not come on when the engine is cold, your vehicle needs service. If your batteries don‘t have enough charge to start your engine, see “Battery” in the Index. Be sure you have the right oil for your engine, and that you’ve changed the oil at the proper times. If you use the wrong oil, your engine may be harder to start. If the engine starts, runs a short time, then stops, your vehicle needs service.

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A CAUTION:

Do not use gasoline or starting “aids,” such as ether, in the air intake. They could damage your engine. There could also be fire, which could cause serious personal injury.

Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

In very cold weather. 0°F (-I SOC) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. To use the coolant heater:

1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded I IO-volt outlet.

A CAUTION:

Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

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NOTICE: After you’ve used the coolant heater, be sure to store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged i n ? The answer depends on the weather, the kind of oil you have. and some other things. Inste.ad of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your GM dealer in the area where you‘ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area. Automatic Transmission

There are several different positions for your shift lever. If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, it now features an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of the PARK (P) position. This means that if your key is in the OFF position, but not locked, there will be a small current drain on your battery which could discharge your battery over a period of time. If you have a need to leave your key in the ignition in the OFF position for an extended period for any reason, it is recommended that you disconnect the battery cable from the battery to prevent discharging your battery.

PARK (P) -This when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use

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Your vehicle has a brake-transmission shift interlock. With the ignition in the RUN position, you must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P). If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you continue pressing the brake pedal. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you still cannot shift the shift lever out of PARK (P), see ”Shifting Out of PARK (P)” later in this section.

REVERSE (R) - Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transmission. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see “If You‘re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

a NEUTRAL (N) - In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with

the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

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A CAUTION:

Shifting out of PARK (f) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

NOTICE: Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty. AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (a) - This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re:

- Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your accelerator

pedal about halfway down.

- Going about 35 mph (56 k d h ) or more, push the accelerator all

the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. 0 should not be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills, or for off-road driving. Select THIRD GEAR (3) when operating the vehicle under any of these conditions.

THIRD GEAR (3) - This is like 6 3 , but you never go into Overdrive. You should use THIRD GEAR (3) when towing a trailer. carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills, or for off-road driving.

0 SECOND GEAR (2) - This position gives you more power but lower

fuel economy. You can use SECOND GEAR (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. If you manually select SECOND GEAR (2), the transmission will drive in second gear. You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces.

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FIRST GEAR (1) - This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND GEAR (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST GEAR (1) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission won’t shift into FIRST GEAR (1) until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE: If your rear wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transmission. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transmission. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

Five-Spa-ld Manual Transmission (With Low Gear)

If you have a five speed manual transmission with low gear (RPO MW3), this is your shift pattern. Here’s how to operate your transmission: LOW GEAR (1) is intended only for heavy loads and is not recommended for normal driving.

LOW GEAR (1) - Press the clutch pedal and shift into LOW GEAR (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. Shift into LOW GEAR (1) only when the vehicle speed is below 5 mph (8 km/h). If you try to shift into LOW GEAR ( I ) at excessive vehicle speeds, the shift lever will not move into the LOW GEAR (1) position until vehicle speed is reduced. FIRST GEAR (2) - Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST GEAR (2). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal.

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You can shift into FIRST GEAR (2) when you’re going less than 20 mph (32 kmh). If you’ve come to a complete stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST GEAR (2), put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N) and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST GEAR (2). If you try to shift into FIRST GEAR (2) at excessive vehicle speeds, the shift lever will not move into the FIRST GEAR (2) position until vehicle speed is reduced.

0 SECOND GEAR (3) - Press the clutch pedal as you let up on the

accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND GEAR (3). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal.

0 THIRD GEAR (4), FOURTH GEAR (5) - Shift into the higher

forward gears the same way you do for SECOND GEAR (3). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. To Stop - Let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL (N). NEUTRAL (N) - Use this position when you start or idle your engine. REVERSE (R) - To back up, first press down the clutch pedal. Wait about 5 seconds for the internal parts to stop spinning and then, shift into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE: Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving could damage your transmission.

Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake, when turning off your engine and parking your vehicle.

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Five Speed Manual Transmission (Without Low Gear)

6 If you have a five

speed manual transmission without