Chevrolet DURAMAX DIESEL 2011 User Manual

2011 DURAMAX Diesel Engine (LML/LGH) M

In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-1

Performance and

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1

Warning Lights, Gauges, and

Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Information Displays . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Vehicle Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Vehicle Personalization . . . . . . . 5-15

Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . 9-1

Starting and Operating . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-16

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37

Conversions and

Add-Ons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-42

Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

General Information . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

Vehicle Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-29

Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1

General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . . 11-2

Recommended Fluids,

Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . . 11-8

Maintenance Records . . . . . . . 11-12

Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

Vehicle Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1

ii Introduction

The names, logos, emblems, slogans, vehicle model names, and vehicle body designs appearing in this manual including, but not limited to, GM, the GM logo, CHEVROLET, GMC, the CHEVROLET and GMC Truck Emblems, SILVERADO, SIERRA, DENALI, EXPRESS, SAVANA, and Duramax are trademarks and/or service marks

of General Motors LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates, or licensors.

This manual describes features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle either because they are options that you did not purchase or due to changes subsequent to the printing of this owner manual.

Please refer to the purchase documentation relating to your specific vehicle to confirm each of the features found on your vehicle. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for GMC and Chevrolet Motor Division wherever it appears in this manual.

This manual contains information that pertains to the operation of your diesel engine. It also contains your Diesel Maintenance Schedule.

The sections in this manual correspond to the sections in your owner manual. This manual, along with your owner manual, will assist you in the proper use and maintenance of your vehicle.

Keep this manual in the vehicle for quick reference.

Canadian Vehicle Owners

Propriétaires Canadiens

A French language copy of this manual can be obtained from your dealer or from:

On peut obtenir un exemplaire de ce guide en français auprès du concessionnaire ou à l'adresse suivante:

Helm, Incorporated

P.O. Box 07130

Detroit, MI 48207

1-800-551-4123

Numéro de poste 6438 de langue française www.helminc.com

Litho in U.S.A.	© 2010 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Part No. 22743552 A First Printing

Introduction iii

Using this Supplement

This supplement contains information specific to the unique components of the vehicle. It does not explain everything you need to know about the vehicle. Read this supplement along with the owner manual to learn about the vehicle's features and controls.

Index

A good place to look for what you need is the Index in back of this supplement. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the supplement, and the page number where you will find it.

iv Introduction

2 NOTES

In Brief

1-1

In Brief

Initial Drive Information

Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Performance and

Maintenance

Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . . . 1-2

Diesel Particulate Filter

(Exhaust Filter) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Diesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Initial Drive

Information

Transmission

Cold Operation

(Allison Transmission)

When temperatures are very cold, the transmission will prevent certain operations to protect against damage. The chart below shows shift range availability based on transmission oil temperature:

.All shift ranges available at −25 C (−13 F) or above.

.2 (Second) and 3 (Third) shift ranges only at −35 C (−31 F) to −25 C (−13 F).

.2 (Second) shift range only at −35 C (−31 F) or lower.

Torque converter clutch operation will also be prevented when air or transmission oil temperatures are below certain levels.

For areas where ambient temperatures are below −40 C (−40 F), use synthetic

transmission fluid approved to Allison Transmission specification TES 295. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11 8 and Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 10 11.

Adaptive Shift Controls

The shift quality of a new vehicle may not be ideal because the Adaptive Shift Control process may not have determined the best settings for a particular shift or condition. Shift quality will improve with continued driving.

Low Traction Mode

(Allison Transmission)

Low Traction Mode aids in vehicle acceleration on slippery road surfaces such as ice or snow.

By selecting 2 (Second) using Range Selection Mode while at a stop, the transmission will limit torque to the drive wheels to prevent slippage.

1-2 In Brief

Heater Performance Mode

(Allison Transmission)

When cold weather conditions are detected, the transmission raises part throttle upshift points after the 1 (First) to 2 (Second) upshift to increase engine speed.

This feature shortens engine and cab warm up times.

When the transmission is in this mode, upshifts may be delayed. This is normal and does not indicate an operational problem.

Four Wheel Drive

(Allison Transmission)

When operating in 4↓ (Four-Wheel-Drive Low), there is a very deep gear reduction. The resulting shifts will feel exaggerated.

Performance and

Maintenance

Engine Oil Life System

The engine oil life system calculates engine oil life based on vehicle use and, on most vehicles, displays a DIC message when it is necessary to change the engine oil and filter. The oil life system should be reset only following an oil change.

Resetting the Oil Life System

To reset the Engine Oil Life System on van models:

1.Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC.

2.Press and hold the SET/RESET button on the DIC for more than five seconds. The oil life will change to 100%.

To reset the Engine Oil Life System on most pickup models:

1.Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC. If the vehicle does not have DIC buttons, the vehicle must be in P (Park) to access this display.

2.Press and hold the SET/RESET button on the DIC, or the trip odometer reset stem if the vehicle does not have DIC buttons, for more than

five seconds. The oil life will change to 100%.

In Brief

1-3

On all models, the Engine Oil Life System can be reset as follows:

1.Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off

2.Fully press the accelerator pedal slowly three times within

five seconds.

3.Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC. If the display shows 100%, the system is reset.

4.Turn the key to LOCK/OFF.

See Engine Oil Life System on page 10 10.

Diesel Particulate Filter

(Exhaust Filter)

The Duramax engine is equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) that, by design, will filter or trap particulates. The DPF is located under the vehicle in the exhaust system and looks like a catalyst.

Depending on a number of factors monitored by the engine computer, the DPF will need to be cleaned of accumulated solids. When a cleaning is needed, the engine computer will initiate a cleaning action by warming the exhaust gas temperature. This feature has been designed to operate automatically, with limited operator involvement or awareness.

Cleaning the DPF

(Exhaust Filter)

While the DPF cleaning is automatically controlled by the engine computer, the vehicle will need to operate continuously for approximately 30 minutes and at speeds greater than 48 km/h (30 mph) to clean the DPF

effectively. If the vehicle is returned to idle during the cleaning process, the driver may notice a slightly different sound or a slightly elevated engine idle speed. This is normal. No action is required on the part of the driver during a regular DPF cleaning. See Diesel Particulate Filter (Exhaust Filter) on page 9 10.

1-4 In Brief

Special DPF Driver Messages

If the vehicle is used for numerous short trips or extended slow-speed operation, the engine computer may not be able to adequately heat up the exhaust system to clean the DPF effectively. The engine computer has been designed to continuously monitor the condition of the DPF. When the engine computer detects that the DPF is nearly full of particulates and that the vehicle is not being operated in a manner that would allow effective automatic DPF cleaning, the Driver Information Center will display the message CLEANING EXHAUST FILTER KEEP DRIVING UNTIL MESSAGE IS CLEARED.

If the vehicle continues to be driven in a manner that prevents effective DPF cleaning, the DPF will become plugged with particulates.

If this occurs, the engine computer will turn on the Service Engine Soon Light in the instrument cluster and the DIC will display the message REDUCED ENGINE POWER.

See Diesel Particulate Filter (Exhaust Filter) on page 9 10 and Engine Power Messages on page 5 11.

Fuel

Use Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel

Fuel (ULSD)

Use Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel (ULSD) only. The emission control hardware used on the vehicle may be damaged by using fuel with high sulfur levels. Use only fuel that is dispensed from pumps bearing the ULSD label.

Do Not Use Low Sulfur Diesel

Fuel (LSD)

Do not use fuel that is dispensed from pumps bearing the LSD label.

Do Not Use Non-Highway Fuel

Fuel labeled as off road or non-highway is typically very high in sulfur content and will damage the emission control system. Non-Highway fuel is not intended for use in on-highway vehicles and does not have the fuel properties needed by the DPF-equipped Duramax Diesel.

In addition:

.Use the correct engine oil.

.Do not add gasoline to diesel fuel.

.Do not modify the induction or exhaust systems.

See Fuel for Diesel Engines on page 9 17 and Engine Oil on page 10 7.

In Brief

1-5

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is used with diesel engines to reduce the amount of regulated emissions produced. The DEF system must be maintained for the vehicle to run properly.

Locating Diesel Exhaust Fluid

DEF can be purchased at a Chevrolet or GMC dealer. It can also be purchased at authorized vehicle and truck dealerships. Additionally, some diesel truck fuelling stations or retailers may also have DEF for purchase. For vehicles with an active OnStar® subscription, OnStar can help to locate a DEF retailer. For more information on locating DEF see www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/vehicles/ diesels_fluid.html. See “Customer Assistance Offices” in the owner manual for phone numbers to assist you in contacting a GM dealer.

See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11 8.

As the DEF tank becomes low on fluid, warnings begin with

approximately 1600 km (1000 miles) of remaining range. These warnings will increase in intensity as the tank becomes empty. Once the tank is empty, the vehicle will be speed limited to 89 km/h (55 mph) and eventually to 7km/h (4 mph).

The tank should be refilled to avoid vehicle speed limitation.

If there is an issue with the quality of the fluid or the exhaust fluid system, warnings will be displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC). The vehicle will have 322 km (200 miles) before being speed limited to 89 km/h (55 mph). If the vehicle continues to be driven in this condition, it will become speed limited to 7km/h (4 mph). See Diesel Exhaust Fluid on page 9 12.

1-6 In Brief

2 NOTES

Instruments and Controls 5-1

Instruments and

Controls

Warning Lights, Gauges, and

Indicators

Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Fuel Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge . . . 5-5

Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . 5-6

Wait-to-Start Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Information Displays

Driver Information

Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Vehicle Messages

Vehicle Messages . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Engine Cooling System

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Engine Oil Messages . . . . . . . . 5-11

Engine Power Messages . . . . 5-11

Fuel System Messages . . . . . . 5-12

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

Diesel Particulate Filter

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

Service Vehicle Messages . . . 5-13

Starting the Vehicle

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Transmission Messages . . . . . 5-14

Vehicle Speed Messages . . . . 5-14

Vehicle Personalization

Vehicle Personalization . . . . . . 5-15

5-2 Instruments and Controls

Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators

Instrument Cluster

English Pickup Shown, Metric Similar

Instruments and Controls 5-3

English Van Shown, Metric Similar

5-4 Instruments and Controls

See the owner manual for telltales and gauges not listed in supplement.

Fuel Gauge

English Pickup Models

English Van Models

When the ignition is on, the fuel gauge shows approximately how much fuel the vehicle has left in the tank. The gauge will first indicate

Metric Pickup Models E (empty) before the vehicle is out of fuel, but the vehicle's fuel tank

should be filled soon.

An arrow on the fuel gauge indicates the side of the vehicle the fuel door is on.

Metric Van Models

Instruments and Controls 5-5

Listed are four situations customers may experience with the fuel gauge:

.At the gas station, the fuel pump shuts off before the gauge reads F (full).

.It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the fuel gauge indicated. For example, the gauge may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank's capacity to fill the tank.

.The gauge moves a little while turning a corner or speeding up.

.The gauge does not go back to E (empty) when the ignition is turned off.

None of these indicate a problem with the fuel gauge.

For information on how to fill the fuel tank, see Filling the Tank on page 9 35.

The vehicle also has a fuel cooler. To clean, powerwash the bottom of the vehicle.

Engine Oil Pressure

Gauge

English Pickup Models

Metric Pickup Models

Metric Van Models

5-6 Instruments and Controls

English Van Models

{WARNING

Do not keep driving if the oil pressure is low. The engine can become so hot that it catches fire. Someone could be burned. Check the oil as soon as possible and have the vehicle serviced.

Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance can damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always follow the maintenance schedule for changing engine oil.

The engine oil pressure gauge reads in kPa (kilopascals) or psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running. Oil pressure may vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity.

If readings are outside the normal operating range, the low oil pressure message may display on the Driver Information Center (DIC), or for vehicles without DIC the oil pressure light comes on. If the oil level is outside the normal operating range of 0-548 kPa (0-80 psi), check the oil level immediately. DO NOT operate the engine with the oil pressure warning light on or a ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL message displayed.

Malfunction

Indicator Lamp

A computer system called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) monitors operation of the fuel, ignition, and emission control systems. It makes sure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment.

This light comes on when the ignition is on, but the engine is not running, as a check to show it is working. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer.

Instruments and Controls 5-7

If the check engine light comes on and stays on, while the engine is running, this indicates that there is an OBD II problem and service is required.

This light also comes on when the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is not working. See Diesel Exhaust Fluid on page 9 12 for more information.

Malfunctions often are indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. Heeding the light can prevent more serious damage to the vehicle. This system assists the service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction.

Notice: If the vehicle is continually driven with this light on, after a while, the emission controls might not work as well, the vehicle fuel economy might not be as good, and the engine might not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs

that might not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Notice: Modifications made to the engine, transmission, exhaust, intake, or fuel system of the vehicle or the replacement of

the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect the vehicle's emission

controls and can cause this light to come on. Modifications to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty. This could also result in a failure to

pass a required Emission Inspection/Maintenance test. See Accessories and Modifications on page 10 2.

This light comes on during a malfunction in one of two ways:

Light Flashing: A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and could damage the emission control system on the vehicle. Diagnosis and service might be required.

The following can prevent more serious damage to the vehicle:

.Reduce vehicle speed.

.Avoid hard accelerations.

.Avoid steep uphill grades.

.If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park the vehicle. Turn the vehicle off, wait at least 10 seconds, and restart the engine. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps and see your dealer for service as soon as possible.

5-8 Instruments and Controls

Light On Steady: An emission control system malfunction has been detected on the vehicle.

Diagnosis and service might be required.

An emission system malfunction might be corrected by doing the following:

.If the vehicle has been driven through a deep puddle of water, the vehicle's electrical system might be wet. The condition is usually corrected when the electrical system dries out.

A few driving trips should turn the light off.

.Make sure to fuel the vehicle with quality fuel. Poor fuel quality causes the engine not to run as efficiently as designed and may cause: stalling after start-up,

stalling when the vehicle is changed into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration.

These conditions might go away once the engine is warmed up.

If one or more of these conditions occurs, change the fuel brand used. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.

See Fuel for Diesel Engines on page 9 17.

If none of the above have made the light turn off, your dealer can check the vehicle. The dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that might have developed.

Emissions Inspection and

Maintenance Programs

Some state/provincial and local governments may have

programs to inspect the on-vehicle emission control equipment

For the inspection, the emission system test equipment is connected to the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC).

The DLC is under the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. See your dealer if assistance is needed.

Instruments and Controls 5-9

The vehicle may not pass inspection if:

.the check engine light is on with the engine running, or if the light does not come on when the ignition is turned to ON/RUN while the engine is off.

.the critical emission control systems have not been completely diagnosed by the system. This can happen if the battery has recently been replaced or if the battery has run down. The diagnostic system evaluates critical emission control systems during normal driving. This can take several days of routine driving. If this has been done and the vehicle still does not pass the inspection , your dealer can prepare the vehicle for inspection.

Wait-to-Start Light	Diesel Exhaust Fluid
	(DEF) Warning Light

The wait to start light shows that the engine is functioning properly and indicates when the engine can be started.

The fast warm-up glow plug system makes the wait to start light stay on for a shorter amount of time than most diesel engines.

For more information, see Starting the Diesel Engine on page 9 1.

This light, a Driver Information Center (DIC) Message, and a chime come on when there is an issue with the Diesel Exhaust Fluid.

See Diesel Exhaust Fluid Messages on page 5 12 for information on the specific message displaying with the light.

If the DEF fluid level has not been corrected, the light will continue to flash when the vehicle is started or after a fuel refill. The vehicle's speed may also be limited.

Also see Diesel Exhaust Fluid on page 9 12 for more information.

5-10 Instruments and Controls

Information Displays

Driver Information

Center (DIC)

The Driver Information Center (DIC) is located on the instrument panel above the steering wheel. The DIC comes on when the ignition is on.

A Duramax Diesel vehicle may have the following additional DIC menu items.

FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING

To access this display, the vehicle must be in P (Park). If your vehicle has DIC buttons, press the vehicle information button until FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING displays.

If your vehicle does not have DIC buttons, press the trip stem until FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING displays. This display shows an estimate of the fuel filter's remaining useful life. If you see 90% FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING on the display, it means 90% of the current fuel filter life remains. The fuel filter life system will alert you to change your fuel filter on a schedule consistent with your driving conditions.

When the remaining fuel filter life is low, the CHANGE FUEL FILTER message will appear on the display. You should change your fuel filter as soon as you can.

FUEL FILTER LIFE RESET

You must reset the FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING display after each fuel filter change. It will not reset itself. Also, be careful not to reset the FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING display at any time other than

when the fuel filter has just been changed because it cannot be reset accurately until the next fuel filter change. The fuel filter life will change to 100% when the system has been reset. To reset the system, press and hold the set/reset button, or the trip stem if there are no DIC buttons, for two seconds while FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING is displayed on the DIC.

Instruments and Controls 5-11

Vehicle Messages

The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display warning messages if a problem is detected. Pressing the select button or the set/reset button for vehicle with DIC buttons, or the trip odometer reset stem for vehicles without DIC buttons,

will acknowledge some current warning or service messages. Other messages are more urgent and cannot be cleared from the display until the issue is corrected.

The following are some additional messages that the Duramax Diesel vehicle can display.

Engine Cooling System

Messages

COOLANT LEVEL LOW ADD COOLANT

Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant is not covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index of your owner's manual for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.

If your vehicle has a low coolant level sensor, this message will appear on the DIC if the engine coolant level is low. Adding coolant to the coolant recovery tank will clear the message. See “Engine Coolant” in the owner manual.

Engine Oil Messages

ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL

If your vehicle has an oil level sensor, this message displays

if the oil level in the vehicle is low. Check the oil level and correct it as necessary. You may need to let the vehicle cool or warm up and cycle the ignition to be sure this message clears.

This message clears itself after 10 seconds, until the next ignition

cycle. See Engine Oil on page 10 7 for additional information.

Engine Power Messages

ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED

A computer monitors the operation of the electric accelerator. If the ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED message comes on while driving, there will be a reduction in performance and acceleration. You should take the vehicle in

for service.

5-12 Instruments and Controls

Fuel System Messages

CHANGE FUEL FILTER

This message will appear on the DIC for 10 seconds when a fuel filter change is required. See Fuel Filter Replacement on page 9 33 for more information.

WATER IN FUEL SERVICE REQUIRED

This message will come on to warn you if there is water in the diesel fuel system. For more information on how this message works, see

Water in Fuel on page 9 27.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Messages

EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW

This message will be displayed when the exhaust fluid is empty. This message may be accompanied by other messages that provide more information.

EXHAUST FLUID LOW SPEED LIMITED SOON

When the exhaust fluid range is less than 120 km (75 miles) this message will be displayed.

EXHAUST FLUID RANGE: XXX

When the exhaust fluid is getting low, the range will be displayed in either kilometers or miles. It is normal for the EXHAUST FLUID RANGE to vary based on vehicle and environmental driving conditions.

EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POOR SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW

This message displays when the exhaust fluid is of poor quality.

This message may be accompanied by other messages that provide more information.

Diesel Particulate Filter

Messages

CLEANING EXHAUST FILTER KEEP DRIVING UNTIL MESSAGE IS CLEARED

This message will appear on the DIC when an exhaust particulate filter cleaning is required. To clean the filter, drive the vehicle above 50 km/h (30 mph) until the warning message goes off. This will take about 30 minutes.

If the filter is not cleaned, the malfunction indicator lamp will come on and the REDUCED ENGINE POWER message will be displayed. Vehicle performance will be limited. See Diesel Particulate Filter (Exhaust Filter) on page 9 10 for more information.

Instruments and Controls 5-13

Service Vehicle Messages

SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW

This message displays when the exhaust fluid system needs service. This message may be accompanied by other messages that provide more information.

Starting the Vehicle

Messages

ELEVATED IDLE OFF

If your vehicle does not have DIC buttons, this message will appear when the elevated idle/exhaust restrictor feature has been turned off. This feature can be turned on or off by pressing the pedals. For more information on the elevated idle/exhaust restrictor feature, see “Elevated Idle” under

Starting the Diesel Engine on page 9 1.

If your vehicle has DIC buttons, this message will not be displayed. The Elevated Idle can be turned on or off using the customization menus. Press the customization button until ELEVATED IDLE appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button once to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to

scroll through the following settings: OFF, ON or NO CHANGE. Choose one of the available settings and press the set/reset button while it is displayed on the DIC to select it.

ELEVATED IDLE ON

If your vehicle does not have DIC buttons, this message will appear when the elevated idle/exhaust restrictor feature has been turned on. This feature can be turned on or off by pressing the pedals.

For more information on the elevated idle/exhaust restrictor feature, see “Elevated Idle” under

Starting the Diesel Engine on page 9 1.

If your vehicle has DIC buttons, this message will not be displayed. The Elevated Idle can be turned on or off using the customization menus. Press the customization button until ELEVATED IDLE appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button once to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following settings: OFF, ON or NO CHANGE. Choose one of the available settings and press the set/reset button while it is displayed on the DIC to select it.

5-14 Instruments and Controls

FAST IDLE ON

If your vehicle has this feature, this message displays when the fast idle feature is on. See “Fast Idle Control” under Starting the Diesel Engine on page 9 1.

Transmission Messages

SHIFT INHIBITED SELECT N

TO RESET (Pickup Models)

If the transmission is unable to shift into a selected gear, this message will appear on the DIC. The electronic shift position indicator on the instrument panel cluster may blink when this occurs. To make the vehicle shift to the requested gear, you may have to shift back to P (Park) or N (Neutral) and re-select the desired gear.

Vehicle Speed Messages

89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX SPEED UPON RESTART

This message will be displayed along with other messages.

These messages include EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POOR, or SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. The vehicle speed will be limited to 89 KM/H (55 MPH) at the next restart.

7 KM/H (4 MPH) MAX SPEED NEXT FUEL FILL

This message will be displayed along with other messages.

These messages include EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POOR, or SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. The vehicle speed will be limited to 7 KM/H (4 MPH) at the next fuel fill.

SPEED LIMITED TO 89 KM/H (55 MPH)

This message will be displayed along with other messages.

These messages include EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POOR, or SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. When this message is displayed, the vehicle speed is being limited to 89 KM/H (55 MPH).

SPEED LIMITED TO 7 KM/H (4 MPH)

This message will be displayed along with other messages.

These messages include EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POOR, or SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. When this message is displayed, the vehicle speed is being limited to 7 KM/H (4 MPH).

Instruments and Controls 5-15

Vehicle

Personalization

Your Duramax Diesel vehicle may have additional customizable features for Power Take-Off (PTO). See Power Take-Off (PTO) on page 9 42 for more information.

Entering the Feature

Settings Menu

1.Turn the ignition on and place the vehicle in P (Park).

To avoid excessive drain on the battery, it is recommended that the headlamps are turned off.

2.Press the customization button to scroll through the available customizable options.

Feature Settings Menu Items

PTO STANDBY SPEED

This feature allows you to select the PTO standby speed.

Press the customization button until the PTO STANDBY SPEED screen appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button once to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices:

.800 RPM

.900 RPM

.1000 RPM

.1100 RPM

.1200 RPM

.1300 RPM

.1400 RPM

.1500 RPM

.NO CHANGE

To select a setting, press the set/reset button while the desired setting is displayed on the DIC.

PTO SET 1 SPEED

This feature allows you to select the PTO 1 set speed.

Press the customization button until the PTO SET 1 SPEED screen appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button once to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices:

.1000 RPM

.1200 RPM

.1400 RPM

.1600 RPM

.1800 RPM

.2000 RPM

.2200 RPM

.2400 RPM

.NO CHANGE

To select a setting, press the set/reset button while the desired setting is displayed on the DIC.

5-16 Instruments and Controls

PTO SET 2 SPEED

This feature allows you to select the PTO 2 set speed.

Press the customization button until the PTO SET 2 SPEED screen appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button once to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices:

.1800 RPM

.2000 RPM

.2200 RPM

.2400 RPM

.2600 RPM

.2800 RPM

.3000 RPM

.3200 RPM

.NO CHANGE

To select a setting, press the set/reset button while the desired setting is displayed on the DIC.

PTO TAP STEP

This feature allows you to select the PTO tap step.

Press the customization button until the PTO TAP STEP screen appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button once to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices:

.25 RPM

.75 RPM

.100 RPM

.150 RPM

.200 RPM

.250 RPM

.350 RPM

.NO CHANGE

To select a setting, press the set/reset button while the desired setting is displayed on the DIC.

PTO SHUTDOWN TIME

This feature allows you to select the PTO shutdown time.

Press the customization button until the PTO SHUTDOWN TIME screen appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button once to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices:

.OFF

.20 MINUTES

.35 MINUTES

.50 MINUTES

.65 MINUTES

.80 MINUTES

.95 MINUTES

.110 MINUTES

.NO CHANGE

To select a setting, press the set/reset button while the desired setting is displayed on the DIC.

Driving and Operating 9-1

Driving and

Operating

Starting and Operating

Starting the Diesel Engine . . . . 9-1

Winter Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

Engine Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9

Fuel Operated Heater (FOH)

(Van Models Only) . . . . . . . . . 9-10

Parking Over Things

That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

Engine Exhaust

Diesel Particulate Filter

(Exhaust Filter) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

Diesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . . 9-12

Brakes

Exhaust Brake

(Pickup Models Only) . . . . . . 9-16

Fuel

Fuel for Diesel Engines . . . . . . 9-17 What Fuel to Use in

The U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-18 What Fuel to Use in

Canada and Mexico . . . . . . . . 9-22 Cold Weather Operation . . . . . 9-27 Water in Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-27 Running Out of Fuel . . . . . . . . . 9-32 Fuel Filter Replacement . . . . . 9-33 Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35 Filling a Portable Fuel

Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37

Towing

Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37

Conversions and Add-Ons

Power Take-Off (PTO) . . . . . . . 9-42

Starting and

Operating

Starting the Diesel

Engine

The diesel engine starts differently than a gasoline engine. The vehicle will only start in the P (Park) or the N (Neutral) position.

Move the shift lever to P (Park) or N (Neutral). To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only.

Notice: Do not try to shift to

P (Park) if the vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to P (Park) only when the vehicle is stopped.

9-2 Driving and Operating

Starting the Engine

1.Turn the ignition key to ON/RUN.

Observe the wait to start light. See Wait-to-Start Light on page 5 9. This light may not come on if the engine is warm.

2.As soon as the wait to start light goes off, immediately turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key.

The engine has a fast warm-up glow plug system. The wait to start light will illuminate for a much shorter time than most diesel engines, due to the rapid heating of the glow plug system.

Notice: If the wait to start light stays on after starting the vehicle, the vehicle may not run properly. Have the vehicle serviced

right away.

3.If the engine does not start after 15 seconds of cranking, turn the ignition switch to LOCK/OFF.

Wait one minute for the starter to cool, then try the same steps again.

If you are trying to start the engine after you have run out of fuel, follow the steps in Running Out of Fuel on page 9 32.

When the engine is cold, let it run for a few minutes before you move the vehicle. This lets oil pressure build up. The engine will sound louder when it's cold.

Notice: If you are not in an idling vehicle and the engine overheats, you would not be there to see the overheated engine indication.

This could damage the vehicle. Do not let the engine run when you are not in the vehicle.

Cold Weather Starting

(Diesel Engine)

The following tips will help with cold weather starting.

Use the recommended engine oil when the outside temperature drops below freezing. See Engine Oil on page 10 7. When the outside temperature drops below

–18°C (0°F), use of the engine coolant heater is recommended.

If you experience longer cranking times, notice an unusual amount of exhaust smoke or are at higher elevations (over 2 135 m or

7,000 ft.), you may use the engine coolant heater. See Engine Heater on page 9 9.

See Fuel for Diesel Engines on page 9 17 for information on what fuel to use in cold weather.

Driving and Operating 9-3

If the Diesel Engine Will Not

Start

If you have run out of fuel, see

Running Out of Fuel on page 9 32.

If the vehicle is not out of fuel, and the engine will not start, do this:

Turn the ignition key to ON/RUN. Immediately after the wait to start light goes off, turn the ignition key to START.

If the light does not go off, wait a few seconds, then try starting the engine again. 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 the batteries are charged, but the engine still will not start, the vehicle needs service.

If the light does not come on when the engine is cold, the vehicle needs service.

If the batteries don't have enough charge to start the engine, see “Battery” in the Index of the vehicle owner manual.

Be sure you have the right oil for the engine, and that you have changed the oil at the proper times. If you use the wrong oil, the engine may be harder to start.

Be sure you are using the proper fuel for existing weather conditions. See Fuel for Diesel Engines on page 9 17.

If the engine starts, runs a short time, then stops, the vehicle needs service.

{WARNING

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

Elevated Idle

The engine has a cold temperature high idle feature which elevates the engine idle speed from base idle to 1050 rpm for pickup models or 1200 rpm for van models when outside temperatures are below 0°C (32°F), and the engine coolant temperature is below 65°C (150°F). This feature enhances heater performance by raising the engine coolant temperature faster.

This feature can be turned on or off using the DIC buttons. If the vehicle is not equipped with DIC buttons, do the following to turn this feature on or off:

1.Turn the ignition to ON/RUN, with the vehicle off.

2.Press the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold while quickly pressing the brake pedal three times in less than eight seconds.

3.Release the accelerator pedal and start the engine.

9-4 Driving and Operating

When the engine is started, it will slowly ramp up to the high idle speed after a delay of a few seconds up to approximately two minutes. For this method to work properly there must be no throttle or brake pedal faults.

The engine idle speed will return to normal once the following conditions are met:

.Once engine coolant temperature reaches 65°C (150°F).

.Air intake temperature reaches 0°C (32°F).

The high idle speed will be temporarily interrupted and the engine speed will return to normal if any of the following conditions occur:

.The brake pedal is applied.

.The accelerator pedal is pressed.

.The transmission is shifted out of P (Park) or N (Neutral).

.Vehicle speed is detected.

Once these inputs are removed, the engine idle speed will slowly ramp back up to high idle after the normal delay, if the conditions for engine coolant temperature and air intake temperature are still met.

Fast Idle Control

The vehicle may have this system which can be used to increase the engine idle speed.

Fast Idle control will be enabled when the following conditions are met:

.The park brake is set.

.The transmission is in P (Park) or N (Neutral).

.The vehicle speed is about 0 km/h (0 mph).

.The cruise control is in the On position. See “Cruise Control” in the Index of the vehicle owner manual.

.The cruise control Set switch is pressed and released for Preset Fast Idle Speed (1200 rpm).

Fast Idle control will be disabled when one or more of the following conditions occur:

.The cruise control is in the Off position.

.The cruise control Set switch is pressed and released. See “Cruise Control” in the Index of the vehicle owner manual.

.The cruise control Cancel switch is pressed.

.The brake pedal is pressed.

.The transmission is shifted out of P (Park) or N (Neutral).

.The park brake is released.

.The vehicle speed is not 0 km/h (0 mph).

When Fast Idle is active, a FAST IDLE ON message will be displayed in Driver Information Center (DIC). See Starting the Vehicle Messages on page 5 13.