Get Vehicle Care -> Vehicle Checks Guide for Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Light Truck 2023

334

Vehicle Care

Damage to suspension components caused

by modifying vehicle height outside of

factory settings will not be covered by the

vehicle warranty.

Caution

Warning (Continued)

Even small amounts of contamination can

cause damage to vehicle systems. Do not

allow contaminants to contact the fluids,

reservoir caps, or dipsticks.

or parts. Always follow owner’s manual

procedures and consult the service

manual for your vehicle before doing any

service work.

Damage to vehicle components resulting

from modifications or the installation or use

of non-GM certified parts, including control

module or software modifications, is not

covered under the terms of the vehicle

warranty and may affect remaining

Hood

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

Warning

{

warranty coverage for affected parts.

For vehicles with auto engine stop/start,

turn the vehicle off before opening the

hood. If the vehicle is on, the engine will

start when the hood is opened. You or

others could be injured.

GM Accessories are designed to complement

and function with other systems on the

vehicle. See your dealer to accessorize the

vehicle using genuine GM Accessories

installed by a dealer technician.

Information 0 437.

This vehicle has an airbag system. Before

attempting to do your own service work,

see Servicing the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle

0 68.

Also, see Adding Equipment to the

Airbag-Equipped Vehicle 0 68.

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 18.

Warning

{

Components under the hood can get hot

from running the engine. To help avoid

the risk of burning unprotected skin,

never touch these components until they

have cooled, and always use a glove or

towel to avoid direct skin contact.

Vehicle Checks

Keep a record with all parts receipts and list

the mileage and the date of any service

work performed. See Maintenance Records

0 424.

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,

(Continued)

Clear any snow from the hood before

opening.

Vehicle Care

335

To open the hood:

To close the hood:

1. Pull the hood release lever with the

i symbol. It is on the lower left side

of the instrument panel.

1. Before closing the hood, be sure all filler

caps are on properly, and all tools are

removed.

2. Pull the hood down until the strut

system is no longer holding up the hood.

3. Allow the hood to fall. Check to make

sure the hood is latched completely.

Repeat this process with additional force

if necessary.

Warning

{

Do not drive the vehicle if the hood is

not latched completely. The hood could

open fully, block your vision, and cause a

crash. You or others could be injured.

Always close the hood completely before

driving.

2. Go to the front of the vehicle and locate

the secondary release lever under the

front center of the hood. Push the

secondary hood release lever to the right

to release.

The Driver Information Center (DIC) will

display a message if the hood is not fully

closed, and the vehicle is moving. Stop and

turn off the vehicle, check the hood for

obstructions, and close the hood again.

Check to see if the message still appears on

the DIC.

3. After you have partially lifted the hood,

the gas strut system will automatically

lift the hood and hold it in the fully

open position.

336

Vehicle Care

Engine Compartment Overview

2.7L L4 Engine (L3B)

Vehicle Care

337

1. Remote Negative (–) Location. See Jump

Starting - North America 0 399.

2. Positive (+) Terminal (Under Cover). See

Jump Starting - North America 0 399.

3. Battery - North America 0 352.

4. Engine Compartment Fuse Block 0 362.

5. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View). See

Cooling System 0 343.

6. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add

Engine Oil” under Engine Oil 0 339.

7. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine

Oil” under Engine Oil 0 339.

8. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap.

See Cooling System 0 343.

9. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0 342.

10. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See Brake Fluid

0 351.

11. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See

“Adding Washer Fluid” under Washer

Fluid 0 349.

338

Vehicle Care

5.3L V8 Engine (L84) Shown, 6.2L V8 Engine (L87) Similar

1. Remote Negative (–) Location. See Jump

Starting - North America 0 399.

5. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine

Oil” under Engine Oil 0 339.

8. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap.

See Cooling System 0 343.

2. Positive (+) Terminal (Under Cover). See

Jump Starting - North America 0 399.

6. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View). See

Cooling System 0 343.

9. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0 342.

10. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See Brake Fluid

0 351.

3. Battery - North America 0 352.

7. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add

Engine Oil” under Engine Oil 0 339.

4. Engine Compartment Fuse Block 0 362.

Vehicle Care

339

11. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See

“Adding Washer Fluid” under Washer

Fluid 0 349.

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.

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 0 336 for

the location.

Engine Oil

When to Add 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:

Warning

{

The engine oil dipstick handle may be

hot; it could burn you. Use a towel or

glove to touch the dipstick handle.

.

Use engine oil approved to the proper

specification and of the proper viscosity

grade. See “Selecting the Right Engine

Oil” in this section.

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 0 426.

If a low oil Driver Information Center (DIC)

message displays, check the oil level.

.

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.

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

.

Change the engine oil at the appropriate

time. See Engine Oil Life System 0 341.

Always dispose of engine oil properly. See

“What to Do with Used Oil” in this

section.

Caution

checking a cold engine prior to starting.

Remove the dipstick and check the level.

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

(Continued)

.

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

340

Vehicle Care

Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes

Caution (Continued)

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.

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.

Engine oil system flushes are not

recommended and could cause engine

damage not covered by the vehicle

warranty.

Caution

Failure to use the recommended engine

oil or equivalent can result in engine

damage not covered by the vehicle

warranty.

See Engine Compartment Overview 0 336 for

the location of the engine oil fill cap.

What to Do with Used Oil

Add enough oil to put the level somewhere

in the proper operating range. Push the

dipstick all the way back in when through.

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.

Viscosity Grade

Use SAE 0W-20 viscosity grade engine oil for

the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines.

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 0 421.

Use SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade engine oil for

the 2.7L L4 engine. 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.

Specification

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.

Use full synthetic engine oils that meet the

dexos1 specification. Engine oils that have

been approved by GM as meeting the

dexos1 specification are marked with the

dexos1 approved logo.

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.

Vehicle Care

341

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.

The oil life system can also be reset as

follows:

Engine Oil Life System

When to Change Engine Oil

1. Display the oil life percentage on the

DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC)

(Base Level) 0 127 or Driver Information

Center (DIC) (Uplevel) 0 128.

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.

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.

2. Fully press the accelerator pedal slowly

three times within five seconds.

3. If the display changes to 100%, the

system is reset.

How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System

If the vehicle has a CHANGE ENGINE OIL

SOON message and it comes back on when

the vehicle is started and/or the oil

life percentage is near 0%, the engine oil

life system has not been reset. Repeat the

procedure.

Reset the system whenever the engine oil is

changed so that the system can calculate

the next engine oil change. Always reset the

engine oil life to 100% after every oil

change. It will not reset itself. To reset the

engine oil life system:

On some vehicles, when the system has

calculated that oil life has been diminished,

a CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes

on to indicate that an oil change is

1. Display the oil life percentage on the

DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC)

(Base Level) 0 127 or Driver Information

Center (DIC) (Uplevel) 0 128.

necessary. Change the oil as soon as

Automatic Transmission Fluid

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. For vehicles

without the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON

message, an oil change is needed when the

REMAINING OIL LIFE percentage is near 0%.

Your dealer has trained service people who

When to Check and Change Automatic

Transmission Fluid

2. Press the thumbwheel on the steering

wheel, or the trip odometer reset stem if

the vehicle does not have DIC controls,

for several seconds. When the

confirmation message displays, select

YES. The oil life will change to 100%.

It is usually not necessary to check the

transmission fluid level. The only reason for

fluid loss is a transmission leak or

overheated transmission. This vehicle is not

equipped with a transmission fluid level

dipstick. There is a special procedure for

checking and changing the transmission fluid

in these vehicles. Because this procedure is

342

Vehicle Care

difficult, this should be done at the dealer.

Contact the dealer for additional information

or the procedure can be found in the service

manual. See Publication Ordering

Select Reset then press the thumbwheel

or press the reset stem for several

seconds.

When to Change the Engine Air Filter

When the Driver Information Center (DIC)

displays a message to replace the engine air

filter at the next oil change, follow this

timing.

4. Press the thumbwheel or the reset stem

to confirm the reset.

Information 0 437.

Caution

When the DIC displays a message to replace

the engine air filter soon, replace the engine

air filter at the earliest convenience.

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

The engine air cleaner/filter is on the driver

side of the engine compartment. See Engine

Compartment Overview 0 336.

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 0 421.

The system must be reset after the engine

air filter is changed.

When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/

Filter

If the DIC displays a message to check the

engine air filter system, see your dealer.

If the vehicle is not equipped with the

engine air filter life system see Maintenance

Schedule 0 417 for intervals on inspecting

and replacing the engine air cleaner filter.

How to Reset the Engine Air Filter Life

System

Change the fluid and filter at the scheduled

maintenance intervals listed in Maintenance

Schedule 0 417. Be sure to use the

transmission fluid listed in Recommended

Fluids and Lubricants 0 421.

To reset:

1. Place the vehicle in P (Park).

How to Inspect/Replace the Engine Air

Cleaner/Filter

2. Display the Air Filter Life on the DIC. See

Driver Information Center (DIC) (Base

Level) 0 127 or Driver Information Center

(DIC) (Uplevel) 0 128.

Do not start or run the engine with the

engine air cleaner/filter housing open.

Before removing the engine air cleaner/

filter, clear any dirt and debris away from

the engine air cleaner/filter housing and

nearby components. Remove the engine air

cleaner/filter. Lightly tap and shake the

engine air cleaner/filter (away from the

vehicle), to release loose dust and dirt.

Engine Air Filter Life System

If equipped, this feature provides the engine

air filter’s remaining life and best timing for

a change. The timing to change an engine

air filter depends on driving and

3. Press T on the steering wheel, or press

the trip odometer reset stem if the

vehicle does not have DIC controls, to

move to the Reset/Disable display area.

environmental conditions.

Vehicle Care

Warning

343

Inspect the engine air cleaner/filter for

damage; replace if damaged. Do not clean

the engine air cleaner/filter or components

with water or compressed air.

3. Remove the three screws on top of the

cover of the housing, then slide and lift

the cover.

{

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.

4. Lift and remove the engine air cleaner/

filter.

To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/

filter:

Warning

{

If part replacement is necessary, the part

must be replaced with one of the same

part number or with an equivalent part.

Use of a replacement part without the

same fit, form, and function may result

in personal injury or damage to the

vehicle.

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.

5. Lightly tap and shake the engine air

cleaner/filter, away from the vehicle, to

release loose dust and dirt. Replace the

engine air filter if damaged.

Cooling System

5.3L V8 Engine (L84) Shown, 2.7L L4 Engine

(L3B), and 6.2L V8 Engine (L87) Similar.

If the vehicle has the Duramax diesel

engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement.

6. Reverse Steps 2–5 to reinstall the engine

air cleaner/filter cover housing.

The cooling system allows the engine to

maintain the correct working temperature.

1. Air Duct Clamp

2. Screws

7. If equipped, reset the engine air filter life

system after replacing the engine air

filter. See Engine Air Filter Life System

0 342.

1. Locate the air cleaner/filter assembly.

See Engine Compartment Overview

0 336.

2. Disconnect the outlet duct by loosening

the air duct clamp (1).

344

Vehicle Care

1. Engine Electric Cooling Fans (Out

of View)

2. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap

The following explains the cooling system

and how to check and add coolant when it

is low. If there is a problem with engine

overheating, see Engine Overheating 0 347.

Warning

{

What to Use

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

{

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.

2.7L L4 Engine (L3B)

Warning

{

Do not touch heater, radiator, a/c pipes

or 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.

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.

.

Engine Coolant

.

The cooling system in the vehicle is filled

with DEX-COOL engine coolant. This coolant

is designed to remain in the vehicle for

5 years or 240 000 km (150,000 mi),

whichever occurs first.

Helps keep the proper engine

temperature.

5.3L V8 Engine (L84) Shown, 6.2L V8 Engine

(L87) Similar

Vehicle Care

345

Automatic Coolant Service Fill

Instructions (L3B Engine)

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.

This feature assists in filling and removing

air from the cooling system after service of

components or when coolant is added after

being too low.

To activate the fill and air removal process:

1. Remove the coolant surge tank pressure

cap when the cooling system, including

the coolant surge tank pressure cap and

upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.

Turn the pressure cap; slowly

counterclockwise about one full turn. If a

hiss is heard, wait for that to stop.

A hiss means there is still some

pressure left.

Never dispose of engine coolant by putting

it in the trash, or by pouring it on the

ground, or 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

All Engines

Check to see if coolant is visible in the

coolant surge tank. If the coolant inside the

coolant surge tank is boiling, wait until it

cools down. The coolant level should be at

or above the indicated mark. If it is not,

there may be a leak in the cooling system.

environment and your health.

2. Keep turning the pressure cap slowly,

and remove it.

Checking Coolant

3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the

proper mixture to the indicated mark.

The coolant surge tank is in the engine

compartment on the driver side of the

vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview

0 336.

If coolant is visible but the coolant level is

not at or above the indicated mark, see the

following sections on how to add coolant to

the coolant surge tank following.

4. Connect the vehicle to a battery charger.

5. Set the ignition to service mode, see

Ignition Positions 0 211.

The vehicle must be on a level surface when

checking the coolant level.

6. Turn off the air conditioning.

7. Set the parking brake.

346

Vehicle Care

8. At the same time, press the accelerator

and the brake for automatic vehicles for

two seconds, then release.

Caution

Warning

{

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.

Spilling coolant on hot engine parts can

burn you. Coolant contains ethylene

glycol and it will burn if the engine parts

are hot enough.

9. Listen for pump activation and

movement of the control valves while

watching the level of the coolant in the

surge tank. Add fluid as the level drops

below the indicated mark on the surge

tank. Allow 15 minutes for the fill and air

removal process to complete.

If no coolant is visible in the surge tank, add

coolant.

Warning

{

Plain water, or other liquids such as

alcohol, can boil before the proper

10. Reinstall the surge tank cap.

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.

If the tank empties, turn the ignition off,

allow the Electronic Control Module (ECM) to

go to sleep, about two minutes, refill to the

indicated mark, and repeat Steps 5–9.

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant

Surge Tank for Gasoline Engines

Except L3B

1. Remove the coolant surge tank pressure

cap when the cooling system, including

the coolant surge tank pressure cap and

upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.

Warning

{

If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see

“Cooling System” in the Duramax diesel

supplement for the proper coolant fill

procedure.

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.

Turn the pressure cap slowly

counterclockwise about one full turn. 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 full cold mark.

Vehicle Care

347

4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap

off, start the engine and let it run until

the engine coolant temperature gauge

indicates approximately 90 °C (195 °F).

2.7L L4, 5.3L V8, and 6.2L V8 Engines

Caution

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 and have the

vehicle serviced.

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.

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 indicated mark.

If the engine or transmission detects an

impending hot fluid condition, then the

transmission may force upshifts to limit

temperatures. Downshifts may also be

prevented in this instance. Normal operation

may continue unless the display indicates

there is a hot condition and engine should

be idled.

The vehicle has several indicators to warn of

engine overheating.

5. Replace the pressure cap tightly.

There is a coolant temperature gauge in the

vehicle's instrument cluster. See Engine

Coolant Temperature Gauge 0 113.

6. Verify coolant level after the engine is

shut off and the coolant is cold.

If necessary, repeat coolant fill procedure

Steps 1–6.

In addition, there are ENGINE OVERHEATED

STOP ENGINE, ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE

ENGINE, and ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED

messages in the Driver Information

Center (DIC).

If Steam is Coming from the Engine

Compartment

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.

Warning

{

If the decision is made not to lift the hood

when this warning appears, get service help

right away. See Roadside Assistance Program

0 433.

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.

Engine Overheating

If the vehicle has the Duramax diesel

engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement.

If the decision is made to lift the hood,

make sure the vehicle is parked on a level

surface.

348

Vehicle Care

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 No Steam is Coming from the Engine

Compartment

Overheated Engine Protection

Operating Mode

The ENGINE OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE or

the ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE

message, along with a low coolant

If an overheated engine condition exists and

the ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED message

displays, an overheat protection mode which

alternates firing groups of cylinders helps to

prevent engine damage. In this mode, a loss

in power and engine performance will be

noticed. This operating mode allows the

vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an

emergency. Driving extended distances and/

or towing a trailer in the overheat

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

slowly for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe

vehicle distance from the vehicle in front.

If the warning does not come back on,

continue to drive normally and have the

cooling system checked for proper fill and

function.

condition, can indicate a serious problem.

The 2.7L L4 engine will shut down

automatically if the ENGINE OVERHEATED

STOP ENGINE message displays.

If there is an engine overheat warning, but

no steam is seen or heard, the problem may

not be too serious. Sometimes the engine

can get a little too hot when the vehicle:

protection mode should be avoided.

If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and

park the vehicle right away.

If the engine or transmission detects an

impending hot fluid condition, then the

transmission may force upshifts to limit

temperatures. Downshifts may also be

prevented in this instance. Normal operation

may continue unless the display indicates

there is a hot condition and engine should

be idled.

.

Climbs a long hill on a hot day.

Stops after high-speed driving.

Idles for long periods in traffic.

Tows a trailer; see Trailer Towing 0 303.

If there is still no sign of steam and the

vehicle is equipped with an engine driven

cooling fan, push down the accelerator until

the engine speed is about twice as fast as

normal idle speed for at least five minutes

while the vehicle is parked. If the warning is

still there, turn off the engine and get

everyone out of the vehicle until it

cools down.

If the ENGINE OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE or

the ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE

message appears with no sign of steam, try

this for a minute or so:

Caution

1. Turn the air conditioning off.

After driving in the overheated engine

protection operating mode, the engine oil

will be severely degraded. Any repairs

performed before the engine is cool may

(Continued)

2. Turn the heater on to the highest

temperature and to the highest fan

speed. Open the windows as necessary.

If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine

for five minutes while parked. If the warning

is still displayed, turn off the engine until it

cools down.

Vehicle Care

Caution

349

Washer Fluid

Caution (Continued)

.

Do not use washer fluid that contains

any type of water repellent coating.

This can cause the wiper blades to

chatter or skip.

cause engine damage. Allow the engine

to cool before attempting any repair.

Repair the cause of coolant loss, change

the oil, and reset the oil life system. See

Engine Oil 0 339.

What to Use

When windshield washer fluid needs to be

added, be sure to read the manufacturer's

instructions before use. Use a fluid that has

sufficient protection against freezing in an

area where the temperature may fall below

freezing.

Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze)

in the windshield washer. It can

damage the windshield washer system

and paint.

Engine Fan

If the vehicle has the Duramax diesel

engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement.

Adding Washer Fluid

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.

The vehicle has a low washer fluid message

on the DIC that comes on when the washer

fluid is low. The message is displayed for

15 seconds at the start of each ignition cycle.

When the WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID

message displays, washer fluid will need to

be added to the windshield washer fluid

reservoir.

The vehicle has electric cooling fan(s). The

fans may be heard spinning at low speed

during most everyday driving. The fans may

turn off if no cooling is required. Under

heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing, high

outside temperatures, or operation of the air

conditioning system, the fans may change

to high speed and an increase in fan noise

may be heard. This is normal and indicates

that the cooling system is functioning

properly. The fans will change to low speed

when additional cooling is no longer

required.

.

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 occurs, which could damage

the tank if it is completely full.

Brakes

The electric engine cooling fans may run

after the engine has been turned off. This is

normal and no service is required.

Open the cap with the washer symbol on it.

Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See

Engine Compartment Overview 0 336 for

reservoir location.

Disc brake linings have built-in wear

indicators that make a high-pitched warning

sound when the brake linings are worn and

350

Vehicle Care

new linings 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.

Brake pads should be replaced as complete

axle sets.

When the system has determined that the

brake pads need to be replaced, a message

will display, which may include mileage

remaining.

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.

Brake pads should always be replaced as

complete axle sets.

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.

How to Reset the Brake Pad Life System

The system will automatically detect when

significantly worn brake pads are replaced.

When the ignition is turned on after new

pads and wear sensors are installed, a

message will display. Follow the prompts to

reset the system.

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 can

change in many ways if the wrong brake

parts are installed or if parts are improperly

installed.

Caution

Continuing to drive with worn-out brake

linings could result in costly brake

repairs.

The brake pad life system can also be

manually reset:

1. Display Brake Pad Life on the DIC. See

Driver Information Center (DIC) (Base

Level) 0 127 or Driver Information Center

(DIC) (Uplevel) 0 128.

Brake Pad Life System

Some driving conditions or climates can

cause a brake squeal when the brakes are

first applied, clearing up following several

applications. This does not mean something

is wrong with the brakes.

When to Change Brake Pads

This vehicle has a system that estimates the

remaining life of the front and rear brake

pads. Brake pad life is displayed in the

Driver Information Center (DIC), along with

a percentage for each axle. The system must

be reset every time the brake pads are

changed.

2. Press the thumbwheel or the trip

odometer reset stem if the vehicle does

not have DIC buttons. Select front or rear

pads as appropriate.

Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary

to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires

are rotated, inspect brake linings for wear

and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper

sequence to torque specifications. See

Capacities and Specifications 0 426.

3. Select YES on the confirmation message,

or press the trip odometer reset stem on

a base level DIC. Repeat for pads on the

other axle if they were also replaced.

Vehicle Care

351

Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap

and the area around the cap before

removing it.

How to Disable the Brake Pad Life

System

Brake Fluid

The brake pad life system can be turned off.

This may be necessary if aftermarket brake

pads without wear sensors are installed.

When the system is turned off, the front

and rear brake pad life percentages will not

display. However, the built-in wear

indicators that make a high-pitched warning

sound when the brake pads are worn can

still determine when the pads should be

replaced. See Brakes 0 349.

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.

The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled

with GM approved DOT 4 brake fluid as

indicated on the reservoir cap. See Engine

Compartment Overview 0 336 for the

location of the reservoir.

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.

To turn off the brake pad life system:

Checking Brake Fluid

1. Display Brake Pad Life on the DIC. See

Driver Information Center (DIC) (Base

Level) 0 127 or Driver Information Center

(DIC) (Uplevel) 0 128.

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.

2. Select DISABLE.

There are only two reasons why the brake

fluid level in the reservoir may go down:

To turn the brake pad life system back on,

follow the above steps but select ENABLE in

Step 2.

When the brake fluid falls to a low level,

the brake warning light comes on. See Brake

System Warning Light 0 119.

.

Normal brake lining wear. When new

linings are installed, the fluid level goes

back up.

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 0 417.

.

A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system.

Have the brake hydraulic system fixed.

With a leak, the brakes will not

work well.

352

Vehicle Care

What to Add

Stop/Start System

Vehicle Storage

Use only GM approved DOT 4 brake fluid

from a clean, sealed container. See

Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 421.

Vehicles equipped with a 2.7L L3B, , 5.3L L84

or 6.2L L87 are equipped with a Stop/Start

system to shut off the engine to help

Warning

{

Batteries have acid that can burn you and

gas that can explode. You can be badly

hurt if you are not careful. Always wear

eye protection. See Jump Starting - North

America 0 399 for tips on working

conserve fuel. See Stop/Start System 0 214.

Warning

{

Vehicles with the Stop/Start system have an

Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) 12-volt battery.

Installation of a standard 12-volt battery will

result in reduced 12-volt battery life. When

using a 12-volt battery charger on the 12-volt

AGM battery, some chargers have an AGM

battery setting on the charger. If available,

use the AGM setting on the charger to limit

charge voltage to 14.8 volts. Follow the

charger manufacturer’s instructions.

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.

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.

Caution

If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's

painted surfaces, the paint finish can be

damaged. Immediately wash off any

painted surface.

Warning

{

Negative Battery Cable Disconnection

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories can expose you to

chemicals including lead and lead

compounds, which are known to the

State of California to cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Wash hands after handling. For more

information go to

Warning

{

Before disconnecting the negative battery

cable, turn off all features, turn the

ignition off, and remove the key,

if equipped, from the vehicle. If this is

not done, you or others could be injured,

and the vehicle could be damaged.

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 0 336 for battery location.

www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

See California Proposition 65 Warning 0 1.

Vehicle Care

353

1. Loosen and remove the negative battery

cable nut (1) at the battery sensor

connection.

3. Cover the negative battery cable clamp,

and negative battery post with a

non-conductive material to prevent any

contact with the negative battery cable.

Caution

If the battery is disconnected with the

ignition on or the vehicle in Retained

Accessory Power (RAP), the OnStar

back-up battery will be permanently

discharged and will need to be replaced.

2. Remove the negative battery cable (2)

from the battery sensor stud.

Negative Battery Cable Reconnection

3. Cover the negative battery cable

terminal, battery sensor stud, and

negative battery post with a

non-conductive material to prevent any

contact with the negative battery cable.

Caution

When reconnecting the battery:

1. Make sure the lamps, features, and

accessories are turned off.

.

Use the original nut from the vehicle

to secure the negative battery cable.

Do not use a different nut. If you

need a replacement nut, see your

dealer.

2. Turn the ignition off and remove the

key, if equipped.

For vehicles not equipped with the Stop/

Start system:

For vehicles equipped with the Stop/Start

system:

.

Tighten the nut with a hand tool. Do

not use an impact wrench or power

tools to tighten the nut.

The vehicle could be damaged if these

guidelines are not followed.

Caution

Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion

inhibitors on the nut that secures the

negative battery cable to the vehicle. This

could damage the vehicle.

1. Loosen the negative battery cable nut (1).

2. Remove the negative battery cable

clamp (2) from the negative battery post.

354

Vehicle Care

For vehicles equipped with the Stop/Start

system:

What to Use

Refer to Recommended Fluids and Lubricants

0 421 to determine what kind of lubricant

to use.

1. Install the negative battery cable to the

battery sensor stud.

2. Install the negative battery cable nut to

the battery sensor stud and tighten.

Front Axle

When to Check Lubricant

3. Turn the ignition on.

It is not necessary to regularly check the

front axle fluid unless a leak is suspected or

an unusual noise is heard. A fluid loss could

indicate a problem. Have it inspected and

repaired. This service can be complex. See

your dealer.

For vehicles not equipped with the Stop/

Start system:

1. Install the negative battery cable clamp

to the negative battery post.

2. Tighten the negative battery cable nut.

3. Turn the ignition on.

1. Fill Plug

2. Drain Plug

Do not directly power wash the transfer

case and/or front/rear axle output seals.

High pressure water can overcome the seals

and contaminate the fluid. Contaminated

fluid will decrease the life of the transfer

case and/or drive axles and should be

replaced.

To get an accurate reading, the vehicle

should be on a level surface.

Four-Wheel Drive

Transfer Case

If the level is below the bottom of the fill

plug (1) hole, located on the transfer case,

some lubricant will need to be added. Add

enough lubricant to raise the level to the

bottom of the fill plug (1) hole. Use care not

to overtighten the plug.

When to Check Lubricant

Refer to Maintenance Schedule 0 417 to

determine when to check the lubricant.

Rear Axle

When to Check Lubricant

When to Change Lubricant

It is not necessary to regularly check the

rear axle fluid unless a leak is suspected or

an unusual noise is heard. A fluid loss could

Refer to Maintenance Schedule 0 417 to

determine how often to change the

lubricant.

Vehicle Care

355

indicate a problem. Have it inspected and

repaired. This service can be complex. See

your dealer.

3. With the engine off, turn the ignition on,

but do not start the engine. Without

applying the regular brake, try to move

the shift lever out of P (Park) with

normal effort. If the shift lever moves

out of P (Park), contact your dealer for

service.

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.

.

Do not directly power wash the transfer

case and/or front/rear axle output seals.

High pressure water can overcome the seals

and contaminate the fluid. Contaminated

fluid will decrease the life of the transfer

case and/or drive axles and should be

replaced.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Park Brake and P (Park)

Mechanism Check

Wiper Blade Replacement

Windshield wiper blades should be replaced

periodically. See Maintenance Schedule

0 417.

Automatic Transmission Shift Lock

Control Function Check

(Mechanical Shifter)

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.

Replacement blades come in different types

and are removed in different ways. For

proper type and length, see Maintenance

Replacement Parts 0 422.

Warning

{

When you are doing this inspection, the

vehicle could move suddenly. If the

vehicle moves, you or others could be

injured.

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.

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

1. Before starting this check, be sure there

is enough room around the vehicle.

It should be parked on a level surface.

.

2. Apply the parking brake. Be ready to

apply the regular brake immediately if

the vehicle begins to move.

356

Vehicle Care

Front Wiper Blade Replacement

Glass Replacement

Gas Strut(s)

To replace the wiper blade:

If the windshield or front side glass must be

replaced, see your dealer to determine the

correct replacement glass.

Your vehicle may be equipped with gas

strut(s) to provide assistance in lifting and

holding open the hood/trunk/liftgate system

in full open position.

1. Pull the wiper assembly away from the

windshield.

Windshield Replacement

Warning

{

HUD System

If the gas struts that hold open the hood,

trunk, and/or liftgate fail, you or others

could be seriously injured. Take the

vehicle to your dealer for service

If equipped, 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.

immediately. Visually inspect the gas

struts for signs of wear, cracks, or other

damage periodically. Check to make sure

the hood/trunk/liftgate is held open with

enough force. If struts are failing to hold

the hood/trunk/liftgate, do not operate.

Have the vehicle serviced.

Driver Assistance Systems

If the windshield needs to be replaced and

the vehicle is equipped with a front camera

sensor for the Driver Assistance Systems, a

GM replacement windshield is

recommended. The replacement windshield

must be installed according to GM

2. Lift up on the latch in the middle of the

wiper blade where the wiper arm

attaches.

specifications for proper alignment. If it is

not, these systems may not work properly,

they may display messages, or they may

not work at all. See your dealer for proper

windshield replacement.

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.

Caution

Do not apply tape or hang any objects

from gas struts. Also do not push down

or pull on gas struts. This may cause

damage to the vehicle.

4. Remove the wiper blade.

5. Reverse Steps 1–3 for wiper blade

replacement.

See Maintenance Schedule 0 417.

Vehicle Care

357

Bulb Replacement

For the proper type of replacement bulbs,

or any bulb changing procedure not listed in

this section, contact your dealer.

Caution

Do not replace incandescent bulbs with

aftermarket LED replacement bulbs. This

can cause damage to the vehicle electrical

system.

Hood

Liftgate

Halogen Bulbs

Warning

{

Headlamp Aiming

Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside

and can burst if you drop or scratch the

bulb. You or others could be injured. Be

sure to read and follow the instructions

on the bulb package.

Front Headlamp Aiming

Headlamp aim has been preset and should

need no further adjustment.

If the vehicle is damaged in a crash, the

headlamp aim may be affected.

If adjustment to the headlamps is necessary,

see your dealer.

LED Lighting

This vehicle has several LED lamps. For

replacement of any LED lighting assembly,

contact your dealer.

Trunk

Vehicle Care -> Vehicle Checks for Your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Light Truck 2023

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