Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own Service Work
{ Warning
It can be dangerous to work on your vehicle if you do not have the proper knowledge, service manual, tools, or parts. Always follow owner’s manual procedures and consult the service manual for your vehicle before doing any service work.
If doing some of your own service work, use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service the vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Publication Ordering Information 0 348. This vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see Servicing the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle 0 87.
VEHICLE CARE 239 If equipped with remote vehicle start, open the hood before performing any service work to prevent remote starting the vehicle accidentally. See Remote Vehicle Start 0 34. Keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work performed. See Maintenance Records 0 335.
Caution
Even small amounts of contamination can cause damage to vehicle systems. Do not allow contaminants to contact the fluids, reservoir caps, or dipsticks.
Hood
To open the hood:
1. Pull the hood release lever with this symbol on it. It is inside the vehicle on the lower side of the instrument panel.
2. Go to the front of the vehicle to find the secondary hood release handle. The handle is under the front edge of the hood near the center. Push the handle to the right and at the same time raise the hood.
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then bring the hood from full open to within 15 cm (6 in) from the closed position, pause, then push the front center of the hood with a swift, firm motion to fully close the hood.
Engine Compartment Overview
3.6L V6 Engine
1. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0 248.
2. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (Under Engine Cover) (If Equipped). See Power Steering Fluid (LF3 and LFX with AWD) 0 255 or Power Steering Fluid (LFX with FWD) 0 255.
3. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine Oil 0 244.
4. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View). See Engine Oil 0 244.
5. Engine Cover 0 243.
6. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View). See Cooling System 0 250.
7. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See Brake Fluid 0 257.
8. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Cooling System 0 250.
9. Battery - North America 0 258 (Battery Cover not Shown).
10. Remote Positive (+) Terminal (Battery Cover not Shown). See Jump Starting - North America 0 306.
11. Engine Compartment Fuse Block 0 265.
12. Remote Negative (−) Terminal (Out of View). See Jump Starting - North America 0 306.
13. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See Washer Fluid 0 256.
3.6L V6 Twin Turbo Engine
1. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0 248.
2. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (Under Engine Cover). See Power Steering Fluid (LF3 and LFX with AWD) 0 255 or Power Steering Fluid (LFX with FWD) 0 255.
3. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine Oil 0 244.
4. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine Oil 0 244.
5. Engine Cover 0 243.
6. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View). See Cooling System 0 250.
7. Charged Air Coolant Bottle and Pressure Cap. See Cooling System 0 250.
8. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See Brake Fluid 0 257.
9. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Cooling System 0 250.
10. Battery - North America 0 258 (Battery Cover not Shown).
11. Remote Positive (+) Terminal (Battery Cover not Shown). See Jump Starting - North America 0 306.
12. Engine Compartment Fuse Block 0 265.
13. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See Washer Fluid 0 256.
14. Remote Negative (−) Terminal (Out of View). See Jump Starting - North America 0 306.
Engine Cover
3.6L V6 Engine
1. Engine Oil Fill Cap 2. Engine Cover Bolt 3. Engine Cover
To remove:
1. Remove the oil fill cap (1).
2. Remove the engine cover bolt (2).
3. Raise the engine cover (3) to release it from the retainers.
4. Lift and remove the engine cover.
5. Reverse Steps 1–4 to reinstall the engine cover.
3.6L V6 Engine
Twin Turbo Engine
1. Engine Oil Fill Cap 2. Engine Cover 3. Engine Cover Bolt
To remove:
1. Remove the oil fill cap (1). 2. Remove the engine cover bolt (3). 3. Raise the engine cover (2) to release it from the retainers. 4. Lift and remove the engine cover. 5. Reverse Steps 1–4 to reinstall the engine cover.
Engine Oil
To ensure proper engine performance and long life, careful attention must be paid to engine oil. Following these simple, but important steps will help protect your investment: . Use engine oil approved to the
proper specification and of the proper viscosity grade. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section.
. Check the engine oil level regularly and maintain the proper oil level. See “Checking Engine Oil” and “When to Add Engine Oil” in this section.
. Change the engine oil at the appropriate time. See Engine Oil Life System 0 246.
. Always dispose of engine oil properly. See “What to Do with Used Oil” in this section.
Checking Engine Oil
Check the engine oil level regularly, every 650 km (400 mi), especially prior to a long trip. The engine oil dipstick
handle is a loop. See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240 for the location.
{ Warning
The engine oil dipstick handle may be hot; it could burn you. Use a towel or glove to touch the dipstick handle.
If a low oil Driver Information Center (DIC) message displays, check the oil level. Follow these guidelines: . To get an accurate reading, park the vehicle on level ground. Check the engine oil level after the engine has been off for at least two hours. Checking the engine oil level on steep grades or too soon after engine shutoff can result in incorrect readings. Accuracy improves when checking a cold engine prior to starting. Remove the dipstick and check the level.
. If unable to wait two hours, the engine must be off for at least 15 minutes if the engine is warm, or at least 30 minutes if the engine is not warm. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it with a clean paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.
When to Add Engine Oil
3.6L V6 Engine
3.6L V6 Twin Turbo Engine
If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick and the engine has been off for at least 15 minutes, add 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil and then recheck the level. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” later in this section for an explanation of what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications 0 337.
Caution
Do not add too much oil. Oil levels above or below the acceptable operating range shown on the dipstick are harmful to the engine. If the oil level is above the operating range (i.e., the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range), the engine could be damaged. Drain the excess oil or limit driving of the vehicle, and seek a service professional to remove the excess oil.
See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240 for the location of the engine oil fill cap. Add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when through.
Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 332.
Specification
Use full synthetic engine oils that meet the dexos1 specification. Engine oils that have been approved by GM
246 VEHICLE CARE as meeting the dexos1 specification are marked with the dexos1 approved logo. See www.gmdexos.com.
Caution
Failure to use the recommended engine oil or equivalent can result in engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.
Viscosity Grade
Use SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade engine oil. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −29 °C (−20 °F), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, it is recommended to select an oil of the correct specification. See “Specification” earlier in this section.
Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils meeting the dexos1 specification are all that is needed for good performance and engine protection. Engine oil system flushes are not recommended and could cause engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.
What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags
containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal of oil products. Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash or pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil.
Engine Oil Life System When to Change Engine Oil
This vehicle has a computer system that indicates when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on a combination of factors which include engine revolutions, engine temperature, and miles driven. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change is indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, the system must be reset every time the oil is changed.
VEHICLE CARE 247 When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it indicates that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes on. Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 1 000 km (600 mi). It is possible that, if driving under the best conditions, the oil life system might indicate that an oil change is not necessary for up to a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your dealer has trained service people who will perform this work and reset the system. It is also important to check the oil regularly over the course of an oil drain interval and keep it at the proper level. If the system is ever reset accidentally, the oil must be changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi) since the last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System
Reset the system whenever the engine oil is changed so that the system can calculate the next engine oil change. To reset the system: 1. Using the DIC buttons, display
REMAINING OIL LIFE on the DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC) 0 139.
2. Press and hold SEL to clear the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message and reset the oil life at 100%. Be careful not to reset the oil life display accidentally at any time other than after the oil is changed. It cannot be reset accurately until the next oil change.
The oil life system can also be reset as follows: 1. Display REMAINING OIL LIFE on
the DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC) 0 139.
2. Fully press and release the accelerator pedal three times within five seconds. If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message is not on, the system is reset.
The system is reset when the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message is off. If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes back on when the vehicle is started, the engine oil life system has not been reset. Repeat the procedure.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your dealer and have it repaired as soon as possible.
248 VEHICLE CARE
Caution
Use of the incorrect automatic transmission fluid may damage the vehicle, and the damage may not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use the correct automatic transmission fluid. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 332.
See your dealer to have the fluid and filter changed at the intervals listed in the Maintenance Schedule 0 322.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
The engine air cleaner/filter is in the engine compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240.
When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
For intervals on changing and inspecting the engine air cleaner/filter, see Maintenance Schedule 0 322.
How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Do not start the engine or have the engine running with the engine air cleaner/filter housing open. Before removing the engine air cleaner/filter, make sure that the engine air cleaner/ filter housing and nearby components are free of dirt and debris. Remove the engine air cleaner/filter. Lightly tap and shake the engine air cleaner/filter (away from the vehicle), to release dust and dirt. Inspect the engine air cleaner/filter for damage, and replace if damaged. Do not clean the engine air cleaner/filter or components with water or compressed air.
To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter:
3.6L V6 Engine
1. Remove the seven screws on top of the engine air cleaner/filter housing.
2. Lift the air cleaner/filter cover housing away from the engine.
3. Pull out the filter. 4. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter. 5. Reverse Steps 1–3 to reinstall the filter cover housing.
3.6L V6 Twin Turbo Engine
1. Screws 2. Secondary Air Hose 3. Lower Air Duct Clamp 4. Lower Electrical Connector 5. Upper Electrical Connector 6. Upper Air Duct Clamp
1. Disconnect the lower and upper outlet ducts by loosening the lower (3) and upper (6) air duct clamps.
2. Disconnect the lower (4) and upper (5) electrical connectors and wiring attachments from the air cleaner/filter cover.
3. Remove the screws (1) on top of the air cleaner/filter cover.
4. Lift the air cleaner/filter cover housing away from the engine.
5. Pull out the air cleaner/filter. 6. Inspect or replace the engine air
cleaner/filter. 7. Reverse Steps 1–5 to reinstall the
air cleaner/filter cover housing.
{ Warning
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. Use caution when working on the engine. Do not start the engine or drive the vehicle with the air cleaner/filter off, as flames may be present if the engine backfires.
Caution
If the air cleaner/filter is off, dirt can easily get into the engine, which could damage it. Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when driving.
Cooling System
The cooling system allows the engine to maintain the correct working temperature.
3.6L V6 Engine
1. Electric Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
2. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap
3.6L V6 Twin Turbo Engine
1. Electric Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
2. Charged Air Coolant (CAC) Bottle and Pressure Cap
3. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap
{ Warning
An underhood electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.
{ Warning
Do not touch heater or radiator hoses, or other engine parts. They can be very hot and can burn you. Do not run the engine if there is a leak; all coolant could leak out. That could cause an engine fire and can burn you. Fix any leak before driving the vehicle.
Engine Coolant
The engine and Charged Air Coolant (CAC) cooling systems in the vehicle are filled with DEX-COOL engine coolant mixture. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 332 and Maintenance Schedule 0 322. The following explains the cooling systems and how to check and add coolant when it is low. If there is a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating 0 253.
VEHICLE CARE 251
What to Use
{ Warning
Plain water, or other liquids such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but there would not be an overheat warning. The engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned.
Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant. This mixture: . Gives freezing protection down to
−37 °C (−34 °F), outside temperature.
. Gives boiling protection up to 129 °C (265 °F), engine temperature.
. Protects against rust and corrosion.
. Will not damage aluminum parts.
. Helps keep the proper engine temperature.
Caution
Do not use anything other than a mix of DEX-COOL coolant that meets GM Standard GMW3420 and clean, drinkable water. Anything else can cause damage to the engine cooling system and the vehicle, which would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Never dispose of engine coolant by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, or pouring into sewers, streams, or bodies of water. Have the coolant changed by an authorized service center, familiar with legal requirements regarding used coolant disposal. This will help protect the environment and your health.
Checking Coolant
The vehicle must be on a level surface when checking the coolant level.
The engine coolant surge tank and CAC bottle are in the engine compartment on the driver side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240. Check to see if coolant is visible in the surge tank and CAC bottle. If the coolant inside the surge tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. If coolant is visible but the coolant level is not at or above the mark pointed to on the surge tank or at the CAC bottle cold fill mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant. Be sure the cooling system is cool before this is done. If no coolant is visible in the coolant surge tank or CAC bottle, add coolant as follows:
252 VEHICLE CARE
How to Add Coolant to the Surge Tank
{ Warning
Plain water, or other liquids such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but there would not be an overheat warning. The engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned.
{ Warning
Spilling coolant on hot engine parts can burn you. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough.
Caution
Failure to follow the specific coolant fill procedure could cause the engine to overheat and could cause system damage. If coolant is not visible in the surge tank, contact your dealer.
The coolant surge tank pressure cap can be removed when the cooling system, including the surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.
1. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise. If a hiss is heard, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
2. Keep turning the pressure cap slowly and remove it.
3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mixture to the mark pointed to on the front of the coolant surge tank.
4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine, and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper mixture to the coolant surge tank until the level reaches the mark pointed to on the front of the coolant surge tank.
5. Replace the pressure cap tightly. 6. Verify coolant level after the
engine is shut off and the coolant is cold. If necessary, repeat coolant fill procedure Steps 1–5.
VEHICLE CARE 253
Caution
If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.
How to Add Coolant to the CAC Bottle
{ Warning
Spilling coolant on hot engine parts can burn you. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough.
Caution
Failure to follow the specific coolant fill procedure could cause the engine to overheat and could cause system damage. If coolant is not visible in the surge tank, contact your dealer.
The CAC bottle pressure cap can be removed when the Charged Air Coolant cooling system, including the CAC bottle pressure cap, is no longer hot.
1. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise and remove it.
2. Fill the CAC bottle with the proper mixture to the cold fill mark pointed to on the front of the CAC bottle.
3. Replace the pressure cap tightly.
Caution
If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.
Engine Overheating
The vehicle has an engine coolant temperature gauge and an engine temperature light to warn of engine overheating. There are also engine hot messages that may display in the Driver Information Center (DIC). If the decision is made not to lift the hood when one of these warnings appears, but get service help right away. See Roadside Service 0 343. If the decision is made to lift the hood, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Then check to see if the engine cooling fans are running. If the engine is overheating, the fans should be running. If they are not, do not continue to run the engine. Have the vehicle serviced.
254 VEHICLE CARE
Caution
Do not run the engine if there is a leak in the engine cooling system. This can cause a loss of all coolant and can damage the system and vehicle. Have any leaks fixed right away.
If Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment
{ Warning
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system are under pressure. Turning the pressure cap, even a little, can cause them to come out at high speed and you could be burned. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and pressure cap to cool.
If No Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment
If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam can be seen or heard, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle: . Climbs a long hill on a hot day. . Stops after high-speed driving. . Idles for long periods in traffic. . Tows a trailer. If the overheat warning is displayed with no sign of steam: 1. Turn the air conditioning off. 2. Turn the heater on to the highest
temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary.
3. When it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral), and let the engine idle.
If the temperature overheat gauge is no longer in the overheat zone or an overheat warning no longer displays, the vehicle can be driven. Continue to
drive the vehicle slow for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe vehicle distance from the car in front of you. If the warning does not come back on, continue to drive normally and have the cooling system checked for proper fill and function. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away. If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while parked. If the warning is still displayed, turn off the engine until it cools down. Also, see “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” next in this section.
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
This emergency operating mode allows the vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat protection mode, which alternates firing groups of cylinders, helps prevent engine
VEHICLE CARE 255 damage. In this mode, there is significant loss in power and engine performance. The engine coolant temperature warning light comes on in the instrument cluster, to indicate the vehicle has entered overheated engine protection operating mode. The temperature gauge also indicates an overheat condition exists. Driving extended distances and/or towing a trailer in the overheat protection mode should be avoided.
Power Steering Fluid (LF3 and LFX with AWD)
The power steering fluid reservoir is under the engine cover on the passenger side toward the rear of the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or an unusual noise is heard. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
Check the level when the engine is cool. To check the power steering fluid:
1. Remove the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover 0 243. 2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean. 3. Turn the cap counterclockwise and pull it straight up. 4. Wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. 5. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
6. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
The fluid level should be between MIN and MAX on the dipstick.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 332. Always use the proper fluid.
Power Steering Fluid (LFX with FWD)
The vehicle has electric power steering and does not use power steering fluid.
256 VEHICLE CARE
Washer Fluid What to Use
When windshield washer fluid is needed, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions before use. If operating the vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
The appropriate message will appear in the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the fluid level is low.
Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240 for reservoir location.
Caution
. Do not use washer fluid that
contains any type of water repellent coating. This can cause the wiper blades to chatter or skip.
. Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in the windshield washer. It can damage the windshield washer system and paint.
. Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage the washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.
. When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer instructions for adding water.
. Fill the washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for fluid expansion if freezing
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.
Brakes
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound can come and go or can be heard all the time when the vehicle is moving, except when applying the brake pedal firmly.
{ Warning
The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to a crash. When the brake wear warning sound is heard, have the vehicle serviced.
VEHICLE CARE 257
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climates can cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to torque specifications. See Capacities and Specifications 0 337. Brake pads should be replaced as complete sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign that brake service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts with new, approved replacement parts. If this is not done, the brakes may not work properly. The braking performance expected can change in many other ways if the wrong replacement brake parts are installed or if parts are improperly installed.
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with GM approved DOT 3 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap. See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240 for the location of the reservoir.
Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on a level surface, the brake fluid level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the brake fluid reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir may go down: . Normal brake lining wear. When
new linings are installed, the fluid level goes back up.
. A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system. Have the brake hydraulic system fixed. With a leak, the brakes will not work well.
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid does not correct a leak. If fluid is added when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
258 VEHICLE CARE
{ Warning
If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and the vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on. See Brake System Warning Light 0 133. Brake fluid absorbs water over time which degrades the effectiveness of the brake fluid. Replace brake fluid at the specified intervals to prevent increased stopping distance. See Maintenance Schedule 0 322.
What to Add
Use only GM approved DOT 3 brake fluid from a clean, sealed container. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 332.
{ Warning
The wrong or contaminated brake fluid could result in damage to the brake system. This could result in the loss of braking leading to a possible injury. Always use the proper GM approved brake fluid.
Caution
If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Immediately wash off any painted surface.
Battery - North America
The original equipment battery is maintenance free. Do not remove the cap and do not add fluid. Refer to the replacement number shown on the original battery label when a new battery is needed. See Engine Compartment Overview 0 240 for battery location.
{ Warning WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Batteries also contain other chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer. WASH HANDS AFTER HANDLING. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/ passenger-vehicle.
See California Proposition 65 Warning 0 237 and the back cover.
Vehicle Storage
{ Warning
Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. See Jump Starting - North
(Continued)
VEHICLE CARE 259
Warning (Continued)
America 0 306 for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.
Infrequent Usage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery to keep the battery from running down. Extended Storage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery or use a battery trickle charger.
All-Wheel Drive Transfer Case
Under normal driving conditions, transfer case fluid does not require maintenance unless there is a fluid leak or unusual noise. If required, have the transfer case serviced by your dealer.
Starter Switch Check
{ Warning
When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See Electric Parking Brake 0 194. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in P (Park) or N (Neutral). If the vehicle starts in any other position, contact your dealer for service.
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check
{ Warning
When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake. See Electric Parking Brake 0 194. Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the ignition on, but do not start the engine. Without applying the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of P (Park) with
260 VEHICLE CARE normal effort. If the shift lever moves out of P (Park), contact your dealer for service.
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
{ Warning
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. . To check the parking brake's
holding ability: With the engine running and the transmission in N (Neutral), slowly remove foot
pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only.
. To check the P (Park) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to P (Park). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.
Contact your dealer if service is required.
Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear or cracking. It is a good idea to clean the wiper blade assembly on a regular basis. When worn, or when cleaning is ineffective, replace the wiper blade. For proper windshield wiper blade length and type, see Maintenance Replacement Parts 0 333.
Caution
Allowing the wiper arm to touch the windshield when no wiper blade is installed could damage the windshield. Any damage that occurs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not allow the wiper arm to touch the windshield.
To replace the wiper blade:
1. Pull the wiper assembly away from the windshield.
2. Lift up on the latch in the middle of the wiper blade where the wiper arm attaches.
3. With the latch open, pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield far enough to release it from the J-hooked end of the wiper arm.
4. Remove the wiper blade. 5. Reverse Steps 1–3 for wiper blade replacement.
Windshield Replacement HUD System
The windshield is part of the HUD system. If the windshield must be replaced, get one that is designed for HUD or the HUD image may look out of focus.
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