Duramax Engine 2015 Service Manual

Duramax Diesel

2015

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2015 Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement 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 . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

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

Vehicle Personalization . . . . . . . 5-16

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

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

Diesel Particulate Filter . . . . . . . 9-11

Diesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . . 9-13

Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-38

Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-43

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

General Information . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

Vehicle Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1

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

Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . 11-3

Special Application

Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7

Recommended Fluids . . . . . . . . 11-8

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

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

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

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

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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.

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 describes features that
may or may not be on the vehicle
because of optional equipment that
was not purchased on the vehicle,

Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 22948873 B-2 Second Printing

model variants, country
specifications, features/applications
that may not be available in your
region, or changes subsequent to
the printing of this owner manual.

Refer to the purchase
documentation relating to your
specific vehicle to confirm the
features.

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 manual can be
obtained from your dealer, at
www.helminc.com, or from:

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

Helm, Incorporated
Attention: Customer Service
47911 Halyard Drive
Plymouth, MI 48170

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.

©

2014 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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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.

Introduction iii

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iv Introduction

2 NOTES

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In Brief 1-1

In Brief

Initial Drive Information

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

Performance and Maintenance

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

Diesel Particulate Filter . . . . . . . 1-2

Diesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Initial Drive
Information

Transmission

Cold Operation

When temperatures are very cold,
the transmission will prevent certain
operations to protect against
damage. The information 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
TES-295. See Recommended

Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-8
and Automatic Transmission Fluid
on page 10-9.

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

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.

®

specification

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1-2 In Brief

Heater Performance Mode

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

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 displays the CHANGE ENGINE
OIL SOON message when it is time
to change the engine oil and filter.
The oil life system should be reset
to 100% only following an oil
change. See “Engine Oil Life
System” in the owner manual.

Diesel Particulate 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.

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 until
the CLEANING EXHAUST FILTER
KEEP DRIVING UNTIL MESSAGE
IS CLEARED message is no longer
displayed. Cleaning occurs most
effectively above 48 km/h (30 mph).
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 on
page 9-11.

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In Brief 1-3

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

See Diesel Particulate Filter on

page 9-11 and Engine Power
Messages on page 5-13.

Fuel

Use Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel
Fuel (ULSD)

Use 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

DIC will display the message
ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED.

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 9-21 and Engine Oil on
page 10-6.

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.

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1-4 In Brief

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
fueling stations or retailers may
have DEF for purchase. For
vehicles with an active OnStar

®

subscription, OnStar can help to
locate a DEF retailer. 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 (1,000 mi) of
remaining range. These warnings
will increase in intensity as the tank
becomes empty. Once the tank is
empty, the vehicle speed will be
limited. 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). See Diesel Exhaust
Fluid on page 9-13.

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Instruments and Controls 5-1

Instruments and Controls

Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators

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

Fuel Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge . . . 5-7
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . 5-8

Wait-to-Start Light . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Power Take-Off Light . . . . . . . . 5-11

Information Displays

Driver Information

Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Vehicle Messages

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

Engine Cooling System

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

Engine Oil Messages . . . . . . . . 5-13

Engine Power Messages . . . . 5-13

Fuel System Messages . . . . . . 5-13

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

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

Diesel Particulate Filter

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14

Service Vehicle Messages . . . 5-14
Starting the Vehicle

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14

Vehicle Speed Messages . . . . 5-15

Vehicle Personalization

Vehicle Personalization (Truck

Models) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16

Vehicle Personalization (Van

Models) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18

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5-2 Instruments and Controls

Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators

Instrument Cluster

English Base Level Pickup Shown, Metric Similar

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Instruments and Controls 5-3

English Uplevel Pickup Shown, Metric Similar

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5-4 Instruments and Controls

English Denali Pickup Shown, Metric Similar

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Instruments and Controls 5-5

English Van Shown, Metric Similar

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5-6 Instruments and Controls

See the owner manual for warning
lights and gauges not listed in this
supplement.

Fuel Gauge

English Pickup Models

Metric Pickup Models

Metric Van 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
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.

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Instruments and Controls 5-7

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 9-36.

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

English Pickup Models

Metric Pickup Models

Metric Van Models

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5-8 Instruments and Controls

Caution (Continued)

low, have the vehicle serviced.
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

English Van Models

Caution

{

Lack of proper engine oil
maintenance can damage the
engine. Driving with the engine
oil low can also damage the
engine. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Check the oil level as soon as
possible. Add oil if required, but if
the oil level is within the operating
range and the oil pressure is still

(Continued)

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 will come on. If the oil
pressure message or light comes
on, check the oil level immediately.
Do not operate the engine with the
oil pressure warning light on or an
ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL
message displayed.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

A computer system called OBD II
(On-Board Diagnostics-Second
Generation) monitors the operation
of the vehicle to ensure emissions
are at acceptable levels, helping to
maintain a clean environment. The
malfunction indicator lamp comes
on when the vehicle is placed in
ON/RUN as a check to show it is
working. If it does not, have the
vehicle serviced by your dealer. See
“Ignition Positions” in the owner
manual.

If the malfunction indicator lamp
comes on while the engine is
running, this indicates that there is
an OBD II problem and diagnosis
and service might be required.

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Instruments and Controls 5-9

This light may also come on when
the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
management system is not working.
See Diesel Exhaust Fluid on
page 9-13.

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

Caution

{

If the vehicle is continually driven
with this light on, 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.

Caution

{

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 10-1.

When the light is on, 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 using good
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. See Fuel for
Diesel Engines on page 9-21.

If this does not make 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

Depending on where you live, your
vehicle may be required to
participate in an emission control
system inspection and maintenance
program. For the inspection, the

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5-10 Instruments and Controls

emission system test equipment will
likely connect 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.

The vehicle may not pass
inspection if:

.

The malfunction indicator lamp 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. See your
dealer for assistance in verifying
proper operation of the
malfunction indicator lamp.

.

The OBD II (On-Board
Diagnostics) system determines
that critical emission control
systems have not been
completely diagnosed. The
vehicle would be considered not
ready for inspection. This can
happen if the 12-volt battery has
recently been replaced or run
down. The diagnostic system is
designed to evaluate 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 for lack of OBD II
system readiness, your dealer
can prepare the vehicle for
inspection.

Wait-to-Start Light

If the wait-to-start light comes on,
the glow plug system is required
and operating. Wait until the light
turns off before starting the engine.
This light may not come on in warm
temperatures.

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.

See Starting the Diesel Engine on
page 9-1.

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Instruments and Controls 5-11

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Power Take-Off Light

(DEF) Warning Light

Non-Denali Pickups

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 5-13 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.
The vehicle's speed may also be
limited.

Also see Diesel Exhaust Fluid on
page 9-13.

The vehicle may have a Power
Take-Off (PTO) light. Under normal
operating conditions, the PTO light
will remain on throughout the PTO
operating cycle. If all conditions
required to engage PTO have not
been met when enabling PTO, the
PTO light will turn on, then turn off
after one second. See Power
Take-Off (PTO) on page 9-43.

Information Displays

Driver Information Center (DIC)

The DIC is in the instrument cluster.
The DIC comes on when the ignition
is on.

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

EXHAUST FLUID LEVEL

The EXHAUST FLUID LEVEL will
be displayed as either OK, XX%,
or LOW.

When LOW appears on the display,
add diesel exhaust fluid as soon as
possible. See Diesel Exhaust Fluid
on page 9-13.

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5-12 Instruments and Controls

FUEL FILTER LIFE REMAINING

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 the
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.
Change the fuel filter as soon as
possible.

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 odometer reset stem if
there are no DIC buttons, for
two seconds while FUEL FILTER
LIFE REMAINING is displayed on
the DIC.

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 vehicles 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

This message will appear on the
DIC if the engine coolant level is
low. Adding coolant to the coolant
recovery tank will clear the

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Instruments and Controls 5-13

message. For pickups only,
remember to check the coolant in
both sides of the reservoir. See
“Engine Coolant” in the owner
manual.

Engine Oil Messages

ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL

This message only displays when
the ignition key is turned to ON/RUN
and 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 10-6.

a reduction in performance and
acceleration. You should take the
vehicle in for service.

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.

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 9-28.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Engine Power Messages

ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED

A computer monitors the operation
of the engine. If the ENGINE
POWER IS REDUCED message
comes on while driving, there will be

Messages

For more information on these
messages, see “Exhaust Fluid Low”
or “Exhaust Fluid Quality Poor” in
Diesel Exhaust Fluid on page 9-13.

EXHAUST FLUID RANGE:
XXXX KM (MI)

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. When this message first
displays at approximately 1 600 km
(1,000 mi) of fluid range remaining,
the fluid is approximately 11 L
(3 gal) low.

EXHAUST FLUID LOW SPEED
LIMITED SOON

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

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.

Black plate (14,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

5-14 Instruments and Controls

EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY
POOR SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW

This message displays when the
exhaust fluid is of poor quality or the
wrong fluid was added. This
message may be accompanied by
other messages that provide more
information.

If the filter is not cleaned, the
malfunction indicator lamp will come
on and the ENGINE POWER IS
REDUCED message will be
displayed. Vehicle performance will
be limited. See Diesel Particulate
Filter on page 9-11.

Service Vehicle Messages

SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID

Diesel Particulate Filter Messages

CLEANING EXHAUST FILTER
CONTINUE DRIVING (Uplevel
Cluster) or DIESEL PARTIC
FILTER IS FULL CONTINUE
DRIVING (Base Level Cluster)

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.

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. See “Service
Exhaust Fluid System” in Diesel
Exhaust Fluid on page 9-13.

SERVICE EMISSION SYSTEM
SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW

This message displays when the
emission system needs service.
Take the vehicle to your dealer. See

“Service Emission System” in Diesel
Exhaust Fluid on page 9-13.

Starting the Vehicle Messages

ELEVATED IDLE OFF

This message will appear when the
elevated idle/exhaust restrictor
feature has been turned off. See

“Elevated Idle” under Starting the
Diesel Engine on page 9-1.

ELEVATED IDLE ON

This message will appear when the
elevated idle/exhaust restrictor
feature has been turned on. See

“Elevated Idle” under Starting the
Diesel Engine on page 9-1.

FAST IDLE ON (Van Models)

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.

Black plate (15,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

Instruments and Controls 5-15

Vehicle Speed Messages

For more information on these
messages, see Diesel Exhaust Fluid
on page 9-13.

XXX KM (MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED

This message will be displayed
along with other messages. These
messages include EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST
FLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICE
EMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. The
vehicle speed will be limited to
105 km/h (65 mph) when the
countdown is over.

XXX KM (MI) UNTIL 88 KM/H
(55 MPH) MAX SPEED

This message will be displayed
along with other messages. These
messages include EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST
FLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICE
EMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. The

vehicle speed will be limited to
88 km/h (55 mph) when the
countdown is over.

XXX KM (MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H
(4 MPH) MAX SPEED

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) when the
countdown is over.

SPEED LIMITED TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH)

This message will be displayed
along with other messages. These
messages include EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST
FLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICE
EMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. When
this message is displayed, the
vehicle speed is being limited to
105 km/h (65 mph).

SPEED LIMITED TO 88 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, SERVICE
EMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. When
this message is displayed, the
vehicle speed is being limited to
88 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).

Black plate (16,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

5-16 Instruments and Controls

TRANSITIONING TO XX KM/H
(XX MPH) MAX SPEED

This message will be displayed
along with other messages. These
messages include EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUST
FLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICE
EMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. When
this message is displayed, the end
of the countdown has been reached
and the vehicle speed is being
limited.

Vehicle Personalization

Vehicle Personalization (Truck Models)

Use the audio system controls to
access the personalization menus
for customizing vehicle features.

The following features may be
available on some vehicles with a
diesel engine. See “Vehicle
Personalization” in the owner
manual for additional vehicle
personalizations.

System Controls

1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN
without the engine running and
place the vehicle in P (Park).

To avoid excessive drain on the
battery, turn the headlamps off.

2. Press the MENU knob on the
radio.

3. Turn the MENU knob to scroll to
SETTINGS, then press the
MENU knob.

4. Turn the MENU knob to scroll to
Vehicle, then press the
MENU knob.

5. Turn the MENU knob to scroll to
the desired menu, then press
the MENU knob.

Vehicle

Select and the following may
display:

.

Climate and Air Quality

.

Power Take-Off (PTO)

Climate and Air Quality

Select and the following may
display:

.

Elevated Idle (If Equipped)

Elevated Idle (If Equipped)

This allows the feature to be turned
on and off. See “Elevated Idle” in

Starting the Diesel Engine on
page 9-1.

Black plate (17,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

Instruments and Controls 5-17

Select Off, or On.

Power Take-Off (PTO)

There may be additional features
that can be customized for the
Power Take-Off (PTO). See Power
Take-Off (PTO) on page 9-43. See
your dealer to enable these
features.

Feature Settings Menu Items

Press the MENU knob to select the
desired setting.

.

Standby Speed

.

Set 1 Speed

.

Set 2 Speed

.

Tap Step Speed

.

Shutdown Time

Turn the MENU knob to scroll to
one of the following menu
selections:

PTO STANDBY SPEED

This feature allows for modifying the
PTO Standby Speed.

Turn the MENU knob to the desired
setting. Press the MENU knob to
select the desired setting.

PTO SET 1 SPEED

This feature is available if the
vehicle is configured for Stationary
Preset PTO, and allows the
selection of the PTO 1 set speed.

Turn the MENU knob to the desired
PTO Standby Set 1 setting. Press
the MENU knob to select the
desired setting.

PTO SET 2 SPEED

This feature is available if the
vehicle is configured for Stationary
Preset PTO, and allows the
selection of the PTO 2 set speed.

Turn the MENU knob to the desired
PTO Standby Set 2 setting. Press
the MENU knob to select the
desired setting.

PTO TAP STEP SPEED

This feature is available if the
vehicle is configured for Stationary
Variable or Mobile PTO, and allows
the selection of the PTO tap step
speed.

Turn the MENU knob to the desired
PTO Tap Step Speed setting. Press
the MENU knob to select the
desired setting.

PTO SHUTDOWN TIME

This feature is available if the
vehicle is configured for Stationary
Preset or Stationary Variable PTO,
and allows the selection of the PTO
shutdown time.

Turn the MENU knob to the desired
PTO Shutdown Time setting. Press
the MENU knob to select the
desired setting.

Black plate (18,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

5-18 Instruments and Controls

Vehicle Personalization (Van Models)

Your Duramax diesel vehicle may
have additional customizable
features for Power Take-Off (PTO).
See Power Take-Off (PTO) on
page 9-43. These features may
need to be enabled by your dealer.

Entering the Feature
Settings Menu

1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN
without the engine running 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 DIC
button on the instrument panel
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, available if the vehicle
is configured for Stationary Preset
PTO, 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

Black plate (19,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

Instruments and Controls 5-19

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

PTO SET 2 SPEED

This feature, available if the vehicle
is configured for Stationary Preset
PTO, 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, available if the vehicle
is configured for Stationary Variable
or Mobile PTO, 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, available if the vehicle
is configured for Stationary Preset
or Stationary Variable PTO, 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

Black plate (20,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

5-20 Instruments and Controls

.

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.

Black plate (1,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

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) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

Parking over Things

That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11

Diesel Particulate Filter

Diesel Particulate Filter . . . . . . 9-11

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Diesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . . 9-13

Fuel

Fuel for Diesel Engines . . . . . . 9-21

What Fuel to Use in

The U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21

What Fuel to Use in Canada

and Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-26

Cold Weather Operation . . . . . 9-27

Water in Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28

Running Out of Fuel . . . . . . . . . 9-32

Fuel Filter Replacement . . . . . 9-33

Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36

Filling a Portable Fuel

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

Towing

Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-38

Conversions and Add-Ons

Power Take-Off (PTO) . . . . . . . 9-43

Brakes

Exhaust Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20

Starting and
Operating

Starting the Diesel Engine

The diesel engine starts differently
than a gasoline engine.

Caution

{

If the steering wheel is turned
until it reaches the end of its
travel, and is held in that position
while starting the vehicle, damage
may occur to the hydraulic power
steering system and there may be
loss of power steering assist.

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

Black plate (2,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-2 Driving and Operating

Caution

{

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.

Starting the Engine

1. Turn the ignition key to ON/RUN.

Observe the WAIT-TO-START
light. See Wait-to-Start Light on
page 5-10. This light may not
come on if the engine is warm.

2. If the WAIT-TO-START light is
illuminated, wait until this light
goes off to. Then 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.

Caution

{

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 cranking
motor 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 driving.
This lets oil pressure build up. The
engine will sound louder when it
is cold.

Cold Weather Starting (Diesel
Engine)

Use the recommended engine oil
when the outside temperature drops
below freezing. See Engine Oil on
page 10-6. 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 9-21 for information on what
fuel to use in cold weather.

Black plate (3,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

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:

Turn the ignition key to ON/RUN.
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 do not have enough
charge to start the engine, see
“Battery” in the owner manual.

Check that the correct engine oil
has been used and changed at
appropriate intervals. If the wrong oil
is used, 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 9-21.

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, which may not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
They could also cause a fire,
which could cause serious
personal injury.

Engine Idle Variations

Under certain conditions the engine
idle speed can vary or be elevated.
Change in idle speed is normal and
does not indicate a problem. Normal
conditions that can raise idle speed
are low voltage, DPF regeneration,
air conditioning compressor loads,
and engine warmup. These speeds
can range from approximately 600
to 1000 rpm.

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. For truck
models, there may be two methods
of activating the elevated idle.

Black plate (4,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-4 Driving and Operating

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.

If this method is not available, see
the alternate method under Truck
Models in Vehicle Personalization

(Truck Models) on page 5-16 or
Vehicle Personalization (Van
Models) on page 5-18.

On van models, this feature can
also be turned on and off using the
DIC buttons.

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:

.

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 parking 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 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 Set switch is
pressed and released. See
“Cruise Control” in the owner
manual.

.

The cruise control Cancel switch
is pressed.

Black plate (5,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

.

The brake pedal is pressed.

.

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

.

The parking brake is released.

.

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

On vans, when fast idle is active, a
FAST IDLE ON message will be
displayed in the DIC. See Starting

the Vehicle Messages on
page 5-14.

Winter Cover

If equipped, the winter cover can be
used to enhance heater
performance in extremely cold
conditions below −18°C (0°F). The
winter cover installs over the grille
and restricts airflow to the engine
compartment.

For vehicles that did not come with
a winter cover, a GM winter cover
can be purchased. See your dealer
for additional information.

When the winter cover is in use, the
Heater, Ventilation, and Air
Conditioning AUTO mode may not
function properly. Use the manual
settings for comfort.

Usage Guidelines

The winter cover should only be
used while operating the vehicle in
extremely cold temperatures or in
heavy snow for extended periods. In
these temperatures, the vehicle
does not need a large amount of air
to properly cool the engine. When
more airflow is required to cool the
vehicle, the winter cover should not
be used. The following usage
guidelines will allow adequate
airflow for proper radiator and air
cooler performance:

.

Do not use the winter cover if
towing a trailer. The vehicle may
overheat if the radiator is
covered while towing.

.

Do not use the winter cover if a
snow plow is mounted on the
truck.

Driving and Operating 9-5

.

Do not cover the opening in the
front bumper.

.

Do not modify the cover. The
winter cover does not cover
some sections of the front of the
vehicle to provide enough
airflow.

.

When the winter cover is used,
the outside air temperature
display may not function
properly.

Black plate (6,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-6 Driving and Operating

.

Keep the underside of the winter
cover as clean as possible.
Remove monthly or as
necessary and clean away dust
and debris.

.

Use only a mild soap to clean.
Do not use harsh soap, strong
detergents, or vinyl protectant/
sealant type products as they
may damage the special finish.
Allow the winter cover to dry
completely before reinstalling.

Installation Instructions

When first trying to fit the cover, it
may appear to be undersized but
will stretch during installation to
ensure a tight fit. The initial
installation of the cover is best
performed when the winter cover
is warm.

Installation (Chevrolet Pickup)

1. The white label must be at the
top and back of the cover.

Black plate (7,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-7

Installation (GMC Pickup)

1. The white label must be at the
top and back of the cover.

2. Starting in the middle, attach
fastening points as illustrated.

3. To remove, reverse the steps
listed previously.

Black plate (8,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-8 Driving and Operating

Installation (Van Models)

1. Open the hood and secure it
with the prop rod.

2. Starting in the middle, attach
fastening points as illustrated.

3. To remove, reverse the steps
listed previously.

Black plate (9,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

2. Hook the five J-clips to the
bottom edge of the grille.

3. Hook the top center J-clip by the
hood latch.

Driving and Operating 9-9

4. Attach the metal hooks, one
each at the top corners.

5. To remove the winter cover,
reverse the steps listed
previously.

Engine Heater

The engine coolant heater can
provide easier starting and better
fuel economy during engine
warm-up in cold weather conditions
at or below −18°C (0°F). The engine
coolant heater should be plugged in
at least four hours before starting.

To Use the Engine Heater

1. Turn off the engine.

2. Open the hood and unwrap the
electrical cord. The cord is
located in the engine
compartment, on the passenger
side of the vehicle, near the
battery.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded
110-volt AC outlet.

Black plate (10,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-10 Driving and Operating

Warning

{

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

hours. At temperatures below −29°C
(−20°F), the coolant heater should
remain plugged in for at least eight
hours. It will not harm either the
coolant heater or the vehicle to
leave the coolant heater plugged in
longer than the times stated. Be
sure to store the cord before starting
the engine. See Fuel for Diesel
Engines on page 9-21 for
information on what fuel to use in
cold weather.

Fuel Operated Heater (FOH)

4. Before starting the engine, be
sure to unplug and store the
cord as it was before to keep it
away from moving engine parts,
and prevent damage.

The length of time the heater should
remain plugged in depends on the
outside temperature. You may wish
to use the coolant heater to improve
ease of starting at temperatures
between −18°C (0°F) and −29°C
(−20°F). Keep the coolant heater
plugged in for a minimum of four

If the vehicle includes an FOH, it will
enhance heater performance and
will reduce the amount of time it

takes to warm the inside of the
vehicle in cold conditions below or
equal to 4°C (39°F). The FOH is
installed on the frame rail on the
driver side of the vehicle and uses
diesel fuel to heat the engine
coolant, which warms up the
passenger cabin air.

The FOH will turn on if all of the
following conditions exist:

.

Outside air temperature is below
or equal to 4°C (39°F).

.

Fuel level is greater or equal to

12.5% of the total fuel tank
volume.

.

The engine is running.

.

Coolant temperature is less than
75°C (167°F).

Black plate (11,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-11

Parking over Things That Burn

Warning

{

Things that can burn could touch
hot exhaust parts under the
vehicle and ignite. Do not park
over papers, leaves, dry grass,
or other things that can burn.

Diesel Particulate Filter

The vehicle has a Diesel Particulate
Filter (DPF) as part of the exhaust
system to reduce vehicle emissions.
The DPF requires a unique exhaust
tailpipe with an exhaust cooler. The
exhaust cooler mixes air with the
exhaust to lower the temperature
before it leaves the tailpipe.

The DPF, the tailpipe, or other
exhaust system components must
not be altered. Inspect regularly and
clean any mud or dirt from the
exhaust cooler, especially where the
exhaust cooler connects to the
tailpipe and the openings where
fresh air enters the cooler.

The DPF will clean itself as part of
normal operation. Several factors
including fuel consumed, hours of
engine operation and miles driven
are monitored by the Engine Control
Module (ECM). The self-cleaning
occurs approximately once per tank
of fuel.

Caution

{

Permanent damage can occur to
the DPF or related components if
the required Ultra Low Sulfur
Diesel (15 ppm sulfur maximum)
or low ash CJ-4 engine oil is not
used. This damage would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

Under certain driving conditions,
such as stop-and-go traffic, the filter
cannot clean itself. The CLEANING
EXHAUST FILTER KEEP DRIVING
UNTIL MESSAGE IS CLEARED
message comes on when the DPF
is dirty and needs to perform a self
cleaning.

For the filter to clean itself, the
vehicle must be driven above
50 km/h (30 mph) until the
CLEANING EXHAUST FILTER
KEEP DRIVING UNTIL MESSAGE
IS CLEARED message goes off.
This will take about 30 minutes.

Black plate (12,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-12 Driving and Operating

Warning

{

During DPF self cleaning or
during extended idling in P (Park),
the exhaust system and exhaust
gases are very hot. Things that
burn could touch hot exhaust
parts under the vehicle and ignite.
You or others could be burned.
Do not park, or idle for an
extended period of time, near or
over papers, leaves, dry grass,
or other things that can burn.
Keep the exhaust area clear of
material that could ignite or burn.
See Parking over Things That
Burn on page 9-11 for more
information.

Caution

{

Extended idle should be avoided
because the DPF system is not
capable of self cleaning at idle.

(Continued)

Caution (Continued)

During extended idle operation,
monitor the instrument panel
telltale lights and Driver
Information Center for messages
and take appropriate indicated
action. Continued idling with the
warning light/message on could
cause irreversible damage to the
DPF requiring repair and possible
replacement that might not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

You will also notice a change in the
exhaust sound and engine idle
speed. This is normal. See Vehicle
Messages on page 5-12.

If you continue to drive with the
DPF warning message on and the
exhaust filter is not cleaned as
required, the malfunction indicator
lamp and the ENGINE POWER IS
REDUCED message will come on
and dealer service is necessary.

See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on

page 5-8 and Engine Power
Messages on page 5-13.

Vehicles with DPF have specific fuel
and engine oil requirements. See

What Fuel to Use in The U.S. on
page 9-21 or What Fuel to Use in
Canada and Mexico on page 9-26

and Engine Oil on page 10-6 for
more information on those
requirements.

Extended idling in P (Park) can
cause exhaust parts and gases to
become very hot. Keep the exhaust
area clear of material that could
ignite or burn. See Parking over
Things That Burn on page 9-11.

For vehicles with Power Take-Off
(PTO), monitor the instrument panel
cluster for lights related to the DPF.

See Accessories and Modifications
on page 10-1 for important
information if you are considering
adding accessories or modifying
the vehicle.

Black plate (13,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-13

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Warning

{

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is
corrosive. Do not allow it to come
in contact with your skin, eyes,
or the finished surfaces of the
vehicle. If exposed, it may cause
skin and eye irritation. Wear skin
and eye protection when
handling. Inhalation may cause
irritation to the upper respiratory
tract. Store in a cool,
well-ventilated area. For more
safety information, see the label
of the Diesel Exhaust Fluid
container.

DEF is used with diesel engines to
reduce the amount of regulated
emissions produced. The fluid level
in the DEF tank must be maintained
for the vehicle to run correctly.
The capacity of the DEF tank is

20.1 L (5.3 gal).

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
fueling stations or retailers may
have DEF for purchase. For
vehicles with an active OnStar
subscription, OnStar can help to
locate a DEF retailer. See
“Customer Assistance Offices” in
the owner manual for phone
numbers to assist in contacting a
GM dealer. See Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-8.

Filling the DEF Tank

Caution

{

Use only exhaust fluid that is GM
approved, or fluid containing the
API certified or ISO 22241 label.
The use of other fluids could
damage the system, requiring
costly repairs that will not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

When adding DEF to an empty or
very low tank, always add at least

7.6 L (2 gal) of fluid to release the
vehicle from speed limitation.

Do not overfill the DEF tank. When
fluid reaches the top of the fill pipe,
stop filling. Do not top off the DEF
tank. When the EXHAUST FLUID
RANGE XXXX KM (MI) message in
the Driver Information Center (DIC)
displays at approximately 1600 km
(1,000 mi) of fluid range remaining,
about 11 L (3 gal) of DEF have
been used.

If you spill DEF on the vehicle while
filling the tank, rinse the area with
water and wipe the surface with a
damp cloth.

Black plate (14,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-14 Driving and Operating

DEF Fill - Vans

For vans, the DEF fill is behind the
fuel fill door. The DEF cap is blue,
and the diesel cap is green.

The fill tube location for chassis-cab
and cutaway vans finished by an
upfitter will vary. Check the upfitter
manual.

DEF Fill - Pickups

For full-size pickups, the DEF fill is
under the hood, on the passenger
side, at the back of the engine
compartment. The DEF cap is blue.

Exhaust Fluid Low

A full DEF tank will last for several
thousand kilometers (miles),
depending on vehicle usage. As the
exhaust fluid level drops, warnings
will automatically be displayed in the
DIC. Exhaust fluid level status is
available on the DIC under the
vehicle Information button.

See “Exhaust Fluid Level” in Driver

Information Center (DIC) on
page 5-11.

To avoid vehicle speed limitations,
the DEF tank should be refilled at
the first opportunity after a low
warning indication. If DEF is added
before the EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW message
appears, it may take several km/mi
for the DIC message to update.

If the vehicle speed has been
limited and DEF has been added, it
may take up to 30 seconds after
engine start with the vehicle
stopped for the EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW message to
clear. If the vehicle is driven prior to
the DIC message clearing, the
vehicle speed will still be limited.
If the DIC message clears while
driving, the speed limitation will be
removed gradually.

Black plate (15,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-15

If DEF is added under freezing
conditions, additional time may be
required to remove speed limitations
and may require less fluid to fill the
DEF tank.

The following actions describe
strategies required by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) and the California Air
Resource Board (CARB). The DEF
messages relate to these strategies.

The DIC message EXHAUST
FLUID RANGE: XXXX KM (MI)
displays at approximately 1600 km
(1,000 mi) of fluid range remaining.
This message appears again at
approximately 500 km (300 mi) of
remaining range before the exhaust
fluid tank becomes empty.

Below 500 km (300 mi) of range
remaining, these messages will
appear every time the vehicle is
started.

If these warnings are ignored and
the DEF tank becomes empty, the
DIC message displays:

.

EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY
REFILL NOW - 644 KM (400 MI)
UNTIL 105 KM/H (65 MPH) MAX
SPEED.

.

For emergency vans with RPO
YF2 or emergency pickups with
RPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW - 998 KM
(620 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

The displayed mileage will decrease
as driving continues. A warning light
also comes on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message EXHAUST
FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A warning light and a chime also
come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 105 km/h (65 mph).

After the transition to 105 km/h
(65 mph) is complete, the DIC
message displays:

.

EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY
REFILL NOW - SPEED LIMITED
TO 105 KM/H (65 MPH) –
120 KM (75 MI) UNTIL 89 KM/H
(55 MPH) MAX SPEED.

.

For emergency vans with RPO
YF2 or emergency pickups with
RPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUID
EMPTY REFILL NOW - SPEED
LIMITED TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) – 933 KM (580 MI)
UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX
SPEED.

The displayed mileage will decrease
as driving continues. A warning light
and a chime also come on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message EXHAUST
FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H
(55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.

Black plate (16,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-16 Driving and Operating

A flashing warning light and a chime
also come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 89 km/h (55 mph).

After the transition to 89 km/h
(55 mph) is complete, the DIC
message EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY
REFILL NOW - SPEED LIMITED
TO 89 KM/H (55 MPH) – 120 KM
(75 MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H (4 MPH) MAX
SPEED displays. The displayed
mileage will decrease as driving
continues. A flashing warning light
and a chime also come on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message EXHAUST
FLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 7 KM/H
(4 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A flashing warning light and a chime
also come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 7 km/h (4 mph).

After the transition to 7 km/h (4 mph)
is complete, the DIC message
EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY REFILL
NOW - SPEED LIMITED TO 7 KM/H

(4 MPH) displays. A flashing
warning light and a chime also
come on.

Add at least 7.6 L (2 gal) of fluid to
release the vehicle from speed
limitation from a very low or empty
tank. The capacity of the DEF tank
is 20.1 L (5.3 gal).

See Diesel Exhaust Fluid Messages

on page 5-13, Diesel Exhaust Fluid
(DEF) Warning Light on page 5-11,
and Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

Exhaust Fluid Quality Poor

Use only exhaust fluid that is GM
approved, or fluid containing the API
certified or ISO 22241 label.

All DEF has an expiration date.
If the system detects poor quality,
or contaminated or diluted DEF, the
DIC message displays:

.

EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY
POOR - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW – 160 KM
(99 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

.

For emergency vans with RPO
YF2 or emergency pickups with
RPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUID
QUALITY POOR - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW –
998 KM (620 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/
H (65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

The displayed mileage will decrease
as driving continues. A warning light
also comes on. Adding fresh DEF to
the system may resolve the
problem, depending on several
factors. If the DIC message persists,
see your dealer or additional DIC
messages may display.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, a DIC message EXHAUST
FLUID QUALITY POOR - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A warning light and a chime also
come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 105 km/h (65 mph).

Black plate (17,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-17

After the transition to 105 km/h
(65 mph) is complete, the DIC
message displays:

.

EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY
POOR - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW - SPEED
LIMITED TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) – 120 KM (75 MI)
UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX
SPEED .

.

For emergency vans with RPO
YF2 or emergency pickups with
RPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUID
QUALITY POOR - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­SPEED LIMITED TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) – 933 KM (580 MI)
UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX
SPEED .

The displayed mileage will decrease
as driving continues. A warning light
and a chime also come on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message EXHAUST
FLUID QUALITY POOR - SEE

(55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A flashing warning light and a chime
also come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 89 km/h (55 mph).

After the transition to 89 km/h
(55 mph) is complete, a DIC
message EXHAUST FLUID
QUALITY POOR - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITED
TO 89 KM/H (55 MPH) – 120 KM
(75 MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H (4 MPH) MAX
SPEED displays. The displayed
mileage will decrease as driving
continues. A flashing warning light
and a chime also come on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, a DIC message EXHAUST
FLUID QUALITY POOR - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 7 KM/H
(4 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A flashing warning light and a chime
also come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 7 km/h (4 mph).

OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H

After the transition to 7 km/h (4 mph)
is complete, a DIC message
EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POOR

- SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­SPEED LIMITED TO 7 KM/H
(4 MPH) displays. A flashing
warning light and a chime also
come on.

Service Exhaust Fluid System

If a problem occurs with the DEF
system, the DIC message displays:

.

SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID
SYSTEM - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW – 160 KM
(99 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

.

For emergency vans with RPO
YF2 or emergency pickups with
RPO ANM, SERVICE EXHAUST
FLUID SYSTEM - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW –
998 KM (620 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/
H (65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

The displayed mileage will decrease
as driving continues. A warning light
also comes on. In some cases this

Black plate (18,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-18 Driving and Operating

.

message will clear itself, indicating
that the DEF system was able to
correct the condition. If the DIC
message persists, see your dealer
or additional DIC messages may
display.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A warning light and a chime also
come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 105 km/h (65 mph).

After the transition to 105 km/h
(65 mph) is complete, a DIC
message displays:

.

SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID
SYSTEM - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW - SPEED
LIMITED TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) – 120 KM (75 MI)
UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX
SPEED.

For emergency vans with RPO
YF2 or emergency pickups with
RPO ANM, SERVICE EXHAUST
FLUID SYSTEM - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­SPEED LIMITED TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) – 933 KM (580 MI)
UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX
SPEED.

The displayed mileage will decrease
as driving continues. A warning light
and a chime also come on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H
(55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A flashing warning light and a chime
also come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced down to a maximum speed
limit of 89 km/h (55 mph).

After the transition to 89 km/h
(55 mph) is complete, the DIC
message SERVICE EXHAUST
FLUID SYSTEM - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITED
TO 89 KM/H (55 MPH) – 120 KM

(75 MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H (4 MPH) MAX
SPEED displays. The displayed
mileage will decrease as driving
continues. A flashing warning light
and a chime also come on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message SERVICE
EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 7 KM/H
(4 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A flashing warning light and a chime
also come on. Vehicle speed will be
reduced to a maximum speed limit
of 7 km/h (4 mph).

After the transition to 7 km/h (4 mph)
is complete, the DIC message
SERVICE EXHAUST FLUID
SYSTEM - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITED
TO 7 KM/H (4 MPH) displays.
A flashing warning light and a chime
also come on.

Black plate (19,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-19

Service Emission System

These restrictions are not applicable
to emergency vans with RPO YF2
or emergency pickups with
RPO ANM.

If a problem occurs with the vehicle
emission system, the DIC message
SERVICE EMISSION SYSTEM ­SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW –
282 KM (175 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
The displayed mileage will decrease
as driving continues. In some cases
this message will clear itself,
indicating that the emission system
was able to correct the condition.
If the DIC message persists, see
your dealer or additional DIC
messages may display.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message SERVICE
EMISSION SYSTEM - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H
(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A chime also comes on. Vehicle
speed will be reduced to a
maximum speed limit of 105 km/h
(65 mph).

After the transition to 105 km/h
(65 mph) is complete, the DIC
message SERVICE EMISSION
SYSTEM - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITED
TO 105 KM/H (65 MPH) – 120 KM
(75 MI) UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH)
MAX SPEED displays. The
displayed mileage will decrease as
driving continues. A chime also
comes on.

When the mileage countdown is
zero, the DIC message SERVICE
EMISSION SYSTEM - SEE
OWNERS MANUAL NOW ­TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H
(55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.
A chime also comes on. Vehicle
speed will be reduced to a
maximum speed limit of 89 km/h
(55 mph).

After the transition to 89 km/h
(55 mph) is complete, the DIC
message SERVICE EMISSION
SYSTEM - SEE OWNERS
MANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITED
TO 89 KM/H (55 MPH) displays.
A chime also comes on.

Black plate (20,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-20 Driving and Operating

Brakes

Exhaust Brake

The heavy duty diesel pickups have
an exhaust brake to enhance the
vehicle brake system, and reduce
brake lining wear.

A switch is used to activate the
system, and is located below the
climate controls in the center of the
vehicle instrument panel. The switch
must be pressed at each vehicle
start for the system to be active.

A light in the switch will come on
when the exhaust brake is
activated.

The Driver Information Center (DIC)
displays the message EXHAUST
BRAKE ON for approximately
10 seconds, then clears.

To turn the brake off, press the
exhaust brake switch a second time.
The DIC displays the message
EXHAUST BRAKE OFF for
approximately 10 seconds, then
clears.

Downshifts may be automatically
selected to increase engine speed,
which increases the effectiveness of
the exhaust brake. The number of
downshifts selected is determined
by the length of time the brakes are
applied, and the rate the vehicle is
slowing. The system delivers the
correct amount of braking to assist
in vehicle control. The heavier the
vehicle load, the more active the
engine exhaust brake will be. Use of
the exhaust brake will help maintain

vehicle speed when used with
cruise control. See “Cruise Control”
in the owner manual.

Automatic downshifts will not occur
if the vehicle is in Range Selection
Mode. See “Manual Mode” in the
owner manual.

The exhaust brake only activates
when the transmission torque
converter is locked. This can vary
based on vehicle speed, gear, and
load. The exhaust brake will be
more active when in Tow/
Haul Mode.

Black plate (21,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-21

Fuel

Fuel for Diesel Engines

This vehicle is approved to use
diesel fuel with no more than
15 ppm sulfur content and biodiesel
up to 20% by volume. Both diesel
and biodiesel blends must meet all
the requirements as defined in the
most current versions of the local
fuel standards. Please see the
recommended fuels for individual
countries, as described in the
following sections.

Caution

{

Engine damage may occur and
the damage would not be covered
by the warranty if:

.

Gasoline is added to the fuel
tank. Gasoline should never
be added to the fuel tank.

(Continued)

Caution (Continued)

.

Diesel fuel has been mixed
with engine oil, vegetable oil,
or automatic transmission
fluid.

.

Marine diesel fuel; fuel oils;
diesel fuels that are entirely
or partially plant based, such
as rape seed oil or bio-diesel;
Aquazole
diesel-water emulsions
are used.

.

Diesel fuel or fuel additives
that are not recommended
are used.

.

Aftermarket diesel fuel
additives, particularly those
that contain alcohol or water
emulsifiers, are used. Consult
your dealer before using a
fuel additive.

®

; or similar

Some conditions, such as dirty fuel,
may decrease fuel filter life and a
CHANGE FUEL FILTER message
may come on in the Driver
Information Center (DIC).

What Fuel to Use in The U.S.

Use only diesel fuel with ultra low
sulfur content (15 ppm, maximum).
Look for dispensers with this label.

Black plate (22,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-22 Driving and Operating

Use diesel fuel that meets ASTM
specification D 975, Grades No. 2-D
or No. 1-D S15, also known as Ultra
Low Sulfur Diesel. Contact a fuel
suppler for any questions.

Caution

{

Use of diesel fuel other than Ultra
Low Sulfur Diesel (15 ppm sulfur
maximum) will cause damage to
the exhaust after-treatment
system. This damage would not
be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Do not use marine,
locomotive, or boiler distillate fuel
since it may contain higher sulfur
levels.

Diesel Fuel Grades

For best results use No. 2-D diesel
fuel year-round because it is
blended for seasonal temperature
differences, both above and below
freezing conditions. No. 1-D diesel
fuel can be used in very cold
temperatures (below -18°C or 0°F);

however, it will reduce power and
fuel economy. Avoid using No. 1-D
diesel fuel in warm or hot climates.
It can result in stalling, poor starting
when the engine is hot, and damage
to the fuel injection system.
The fuels industry usually will
automatically modify the fuel for the
appropriate seasonal blend. If in
doubt, please confirm with your
local fuel supplier.

Premium Diesel Fuel

Premium Diesel Fuel (FQP-1A)
corresponding to the Engine
Manufacturers Association (EMA)
Recommended Guideline may
provide less noise, better starting,
and better vehicle performance, but
is not required.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel
produced from vegetable oils or
animal fats that have been
chemically modified for normal
performance.

Caution

{

Do not use home-made biodiesel
or home test kits because the
quality cannot be verified by
approved scientific methods. Do
not use raw vegetable oil or other
unmodified bio-oils, fats,
or blends of vegetable oil with
diesel. They could damage the
fuel system and engine, and
damages would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty.

Black plate (23,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-23

Biodiesel blends

Use biodiesel blends that meet the
ASTM specification D6751.

.

Retail pumps dispensing blends
containing up to 5% biodiesel
(B5) are not required to be
labeled with the concentration of
biodiesel. Blends up to B5 must
meet ASTM D975 (Grades No.
2-D or No. 1-D S15 Ultra Low
Sulfur Diesel).

Caution

{

Do not use blends containing
more than 20% biodiesel. Any
engine, fuel system, or exhaust
after-treatment system damage
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.

Pumps dispensing more than
5% and up to 20% biodiesel are
required to be labeled with the
concentration of biodiesel. When
refueling with a biodiesel blend
above B5, one of the following
labels should appear on the
dispenser:

.

Blends containing more than 5%
and up to 20% biodiesel must
meet ASTM specification D7467
(Biodiesel blend, B6 - B20).

Black plate (24,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-24 Driving and Operating

Biodiesel quality can vary widely.
To reduce the risk of poor quality
fuel, purchase biodiesel blends
from a BQ-9000 certified
marketer. See www.bq-9000.org
for a list of certified marketers.

As a renewable fuel, biodiesel
provides some environmental
benefits. However, biodiesel has
unique properties and needs to be
handled differently than diesel fuel.
Its use presents additional risks and
may not be appropriate in all
situations. Certain vehicle operating
modes increase these risks and
should be avoided. Read further to
determine if your driving habits are
compatible with the use of biodiesel.

.

Biodiesel fuel quality degrades
with time and exposure to high
temperature quicker than Ultra
Low Sulfur Diesel fuel. More
frequent refueling provides the
best opportunity to have a
supply of fresh fuel. Storage at
hot ambient temperatures will
accelerate biodiesel
degradation.

Owners who use very little fuel,
or who have vehicles stored for
extended periods of time, should
avoid the use of biodiesel
blended fuels above 5% by
volume. When vehicles are
stored for longer than one
month, they should be run out of
biodiesel to below one-quarter
tank, refueled with Ultra Low
Sulfur Diesel fuel, and driven
several miles before storage.

.

At temperatures below 32°F (0°
C), it is recommended to switch
to Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuel
with no biodiesel content, or to
blends with biodiesel containing
less than 5% by volume. At
these extreme cold
temperatures, biodiesel blends
higher than 5% by volume may
cause fuel filter plugging and
system gelling, which can lead
to vehicle operability problems.

Fuels improperly blended for
cold temperature operation may
result in restricted fuel filters and
degraded vehicle performance.
The vehicle is equipped with a
fuel heating system to provide a
level of protection against filter
plugging from gelling or waxing
of conventional diesel fuel and
biodiesel blends. If the operating
temperature is far below the
temperature at which gelling or
waxing of the fuel occurs the
system will not prevent all cases
of filter plugging.

Black plate (25,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

.

Vehicles operated for extended
periods of time on Ultra Low
Sulfur Diesel fuel and then
switched to biodiesel blends
may experience premature fuel
filter clogging and require more
frequent fuel filter service.

With long-term use of Ultra Low
Sulfur Diesel fuel, gum and
varnish may be deposited within
the tank and fuel system. These
deposits, while not problematic
with the use of Ultra Low Sulfur
Diesel fuel, may become
loosened with a sudden switch
to biodiesel blends and cause
fuel filter plugging.

If the vehicle experiences a fuel
filter restriction, the on-board
monitoring system will alert the
driver that the fuel filter requires
service. The fuel filter, however,
will not prevent all damage
caused by poor quality biodiesel.

Refueling

Diesel fuel can foam when filling the
tank. This can cause the automatic
pump nozzle to shut off, even if the
tank is not full. If this happens, wait
for the foaming to stop, and then fill
the tank more slowly. See Filling the
Tank on page 9-36.

Warning

{

Heat coming from the engine can
cause the fuel to expand and
force the fuel out of the tank.
If something ignites the fuel, a fire
could start. To help avoid this, fill
the tank slowly and only until the
nozzle shuts off. Do not top it off.
Clean up any spilled fuel.

Driving and Operating 9-25

Accidental Refueling with
Gasoline

Caution

{

If the vehicle is accidentally
refueled with gasoline, do not
continue driving the vehicle
except to get to a location where
it can be stopped safely. Driving
the vehicle will damage the fuel
system. Have the vehicle towed
to a qualified technician to have
the gasoline removed from the
tank, preferably until the fuel
gauge reads near E (Empty).
Refuel with Ultra Low Sulfur
Diesel fuel.

Black plate (26,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-26 Driving and Operating

What Fuel to Use in Canada and Mexico

Use only diesel fuel with ultra low
sulfur content (15 ppm maximum).

What Fuel to Use in Canada

Use diesel fuel that meets CAN/
CGSB-3.517 specification in
Canada. Contact a fuel supplier for
questions about fuel.

Caution

{

Use of diesel fuel other than Ultra
Low Sulfur Diesel (15 ppm sulfur
maximum) will cause damage to
the exhaust after-treatment
system. This damage would not
be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Do not use marine,
locomotive, or boiler distillate fuel
since it may contain higher sulfur
levels.

Diesel Fuel Types

Fuels are blended for seasonal
changes. Diesel Type A fuel is
blended to ensure vehicles operate
in extreme cold temperatures. This
fuel, however, may cause some
power and fuel economy losses.
Diesel Type B fuel is blended for
higher temperatures experienced
during most of the year. Avoid using
Diesel Type A fuel in warm or hot
climates. Doing so can result in
stalling, poor starting when the
engine is hot, and damage to the
fuel injection system.

Premium Diesel Fuel

If available, premium diesel fuel
(FQP-1A) corresponding to the
Engine Manufacturers Association
(EMA) Recommended Guideline
could provide better starting and
vehicle performance with less noise.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel
produced from vegetable oils or
animal fats that have been
chemically modified for normal
engine performance.

Caution

{

Do not use home-made biodiesel
or home test kits because the
quality cannot be verified by
approved scientific methods. Do
not use raw vegetable oil or other
unmodified bio-oils, fats,
or blends of vegetable oil with
diesel. They could damage the
fuel system and engine, and
damages would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty.

Biodiesel blends

Biodiesel blends that meet the CAN/
CGSB-3.522 specifications up to
20% (B20) can be used. Avoid the
use of biodiesel blends above 20%,
as they may damage the engine

Black plate (27,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-27

and fuel system. For detailed
information on the use of biodiesel,
see What Fuel to Use in The U.S.
on page 9-21.

Refueling

Diesel fuel can foam when filling the
tank. This can cause the automatic
pump nozzle to shut off, even if the
tank is not full. If this happens, wait
for the foaming to stop, and then fill
the tank more slowly. See Filling the
Tank on page 9-36.

Warning

{

Heat coming from the engine can
cause the fuel to expand and
force the fuel out of the tank.
If something ignites the fuel, a fire
could start. To help avoid this, fill
the tank slowly and only until the
nozzle shuts off. Do not top it off.
Clean up any spilled fuel.

Accidental Refueling with
Gasoline

Caution

{

If the vehicle is accidentally
refueled with gasoline, do not
continue driving the vehicle
except to get to a location where
it can be stopped safely. Driving
the vehicle will damage the fuel
system. Have the vehicle towed
to a qualified technician to have
the gasoline removed from the
tank, preferably until the fuel
gauge reads near E (Empty).
Refuel with Ultra Low Sulfur
Diesel fuel.

What Fuel to Use in Mexico

Use diesel fuel specification
NOM-086 Pemex UBA, which meets
the Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuel
requirement of 15 ppm sulfur
maximum. This fuel is not available
in all regions of Mexico.

Caution

{

Use of diesel fuel other than Ultra
Low Sulfur Diesel (15 ppm sulfur
maximum) will damage the
exhaust after-treatment system.
This damage would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

Cold Weather Operation

In cold weather, the fuel filter may
become clogged by wax naturally
present in the fuel. To unclog it,
move the vehicle to a warm garage
area and allow the filter to warm up.
The fuel filter may need to be
replaced. See Fuel Filter
Replacement on page 9-33.

At temperatures below 0°C (32°F), it
is recommended to avoid using
biodiesel blends above (5% blend)
which may cause fuel filter plugging,
system gelling, and freezing that
may affect vehicle starting.

Black plate (28,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-28 Driving and Operating

It is recommended to use Ultra Low
Sulfur No. 1-D diesel fuel or a blend
of No. 1-D and No. 2-D diesel fuel to
enhance vehicle operation in cold
weather at temperatures below (0°C
(32F). Use of No. 1-D diesel fuel
may lower the fuel economy.

Water in Fuel

Improper fuel tank inspection or
cleaning, or contaminated fuel from
suppliers, can cause water to be
pumped into the fuel tank along with
the diesel fuel. If a WATER IN FUEL
message displays, the water must
be drained immediately.

Warning

{

Diesel fuel containing water is still
combustible. You or others could
be burned. If the fuel needs to be
drained, keep sparks, flames, and
smoking materials away from the
mixture.

Caution

{

Water in the diesel fuel can
corrode internal components of
the fuel system and lead to
severe damage. It can also
support fungus or bacteria
growth, which can damage the
fuel system and fuel operated
heater (FOH) (if equipped). Even
with a diesel fuel biocide, the fuel
system may still need to be
cleaned. Your dealer can advise
of the appropriate solution.

If the fuel tank needs to be
purged to remove water, see your
dealer or a qualified technician.
Improper purging can damage the
fuel system and block the FOH.

Water in Fuel Troubleshooting

If the WATER IN FUEL SERVICE
REQUIRED message comes on:

Problem

Message
displays but
goes off during
the ignition
cycle.

Recommended

Action

The fuel filter is
approximately
half full of water.
Drain the water
immediately.
See "Removing
Water from Fuel
Filter" later in
this section.

Black plate (29,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-29

Problem

Message
displays and
stays on.

Recommended

Action

Drain the fuel
filter
immediately.
If no water can
be drained, and
the temperature
is below
freezing, then
water may be
frozen in the
filter. Move the
vehicle to a
warm location to
thaw, then drain
the fuel. If still
no water drains,
see your dealer.

Problem

Immediately
after refueling,
message
displays and
stays on.

Recommended

Action

A large amount
of water is in the
fuel tank. Drain
the fuel filter
immediately.
If the message
stays on,
or comes back
on again without
refueling, fuel
tank purging is
required. See
your dealer.
If the message
displays and the
vehicle stalls or
has rough
riding, do not
drive until the
water
contaminated
fuel is drained.

Caution

{

Driving with this message on can
damage the fuel injection system
and the engine. If the message
comes on right after a refuel,
water was pumped into the fuel
tank. Turn off the engine and
drain the water immediately.

Removing Water from Fuel
Filter

To drain water:

1. Turn the engine off and apply
the parking brake.

2. Remove the fuel cap.

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Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-30 Driving and Operating

Pickup

Van

3. Place a container under the filter
drain valve. The filter drain valve
is on the bottom of the fuel filter.
For pickup models, the filter
drain valve is on the passenger
side of the engine compartment.
For van models, the filter drain
valve is under the vehicle on the
driver side, inside the frame rail.

4. For pickup models, open the
drain valve by turning it two to
three turns. Pump the primer
until fuel empties from the valve
and all of the water has been
drained. Close the valve hand
tight.

For van models, open the fuel
filter drain valve by turning it two
to three turns. Allow the filter to
drain until all of the water has
been removed. Close the valve
hand tight.

5. Properly dispose of the water
contaminated fuel.

6. Install the fuel cap.

7. Start the engine and let it run for
a few minutes. During the
draining process, air may have
entered the fuel system. If the
engine stalls, the fuel system
may need to be primed. See
“Fuel Priming” following.

Fuel Priming

For the fuel system to work properly,
the fuel lines must be full of fuel.
If air gets in, the fuel lines need to
be primed before operating the
vehicle and the fuel operated
heater (FOH).

If air is present, the following may
have happened:

.

The vehicle ran out of fuel.

.

The fuel filter was removed.

.

The fuel lines were removed or
disconnected.

.

The fuel filter water drain valve
was opened while the engine
was running.

Black plate (31,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

.

The FOH pump and FOH fuel
lines were removed or
disconnected.

The system is not harmed by air in
the fuel lines; however, the engine
and/or the FOH may not start until
the fuel system is primed and the air
is removed.

To Prime Pickup Models

The priming pump is part of the
engine fuel filter and will bring fuel
to the engine to eliminate air in the
fuel lines. To prime the engine:

1. Correct any condition that
caused the loss of prime.

2. Check that the fuel filter is
installed and properly tightened,
and cool enough to touch.

3. Check that the fuel lines are
properly connected.

4. Remove any dirt from the fuel
filter head and vent valve.

5. Locate the fuel filter vent valve
on top of the fuel filter housing.
Turn the valve screw
counterclockwise several full
turns to open.

Driving and Operating 9-31

6. Locate the fuel filter priming
pump on top of the fuel filter
housing. Push down and let it
return up several times.

7. Continue priming the pump until
a small amount of fuel comes
from the vent valve. This
indicates the filter is full of fuel
and the system should be
primed.

8. Close the vent valve. Clean any
fuel off the fuel filter. Try to start
the engine. If the engine stalls,
operate the priming pump
several times in between starting

Black plate (32,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-32 Driving and Operating

attempts. Allow the engine to
idle for a few minutes after it
starts. Check the filter for leaks.

To Prime Van Models

There is an electric priming pump
that will bring fuel to the engine and
eliminate air in the fuel lines.
To prime the engine:

1. Correct any condition that
caused the loss of prime.

2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN for
30 seconds. Do not start the
engine. The fuel pump will start
priming.

3. Turn the ignition off, then back to
start, and crank the engine for
15 seconds.

4. If the engine does not start,
repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the
engine starts.

If the engine does not start after
repeating Steps 2 and 3 three
times, turn the ignition key off for
60 seconds.

5. Repeat the above steps until the
engine starts.

6. If the engine starts, but does not
run smoothly, increase the
engine speed slightly.

7. If the engine starts and runs but
stalls again, turn the ignition off
for 60 seconds.

8. When the engine starts, let it idle
for a few minutes and check the
filter for any leaks.

To Prime the Fuel Operated Heater
(FOH) Fuel Lines (Van Models)

See your dealer or qualified
technician if the FOH fuel lines need
to be primed.

Running Out of Fuel

Pickup Models

Warning

{

Diesel fuel is combustible. It could
start a fire if it gets on hot engine
parts. You could be burned. Catch
any fuel from the air bleed valve,
and wipe up any spilled fuel with
a cloth.

If the engine has stalled due to
running out of fuel, try the following
steps to restart it:

1. If parked on a level surface, add
at least 7.6 L (2 gal) of fuel. Up
to 18.9 L (5 gal) may be needed
if parked on a slope.

2. Follow the fuel priming
procedure earlier in this section
to prime the fuel filter.

3. Turn the ignition key to START
for 10 to 15 seconds at a time
until the engine starts. If the

Black plate (33,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-33

engine tries to run, but does not
run smoothly, increase the rpm
slightly by using the accelerator
pedal. This will help force air
through the system.

4. Return to Step 2 if the engine
stalls and will not restart.

5. After a few attempts, if the
engine still does not start, see
your dealer.

Van Models

If the engine has stalled due to
running out of fuel, try to restart it:

1. If parked on a level surface, add
at least 3.8 L (1 gal) of fuel. Up
to 18.9 L (5 gal) may be needed
if parked on a slope.

2. Follow the vehicle fuel system
priming procedure earlier in this
section to re-prime the system
and restart the engine.

If the check engine light comes on
due to running out of fuel, it may
take a few drive cycles to clear.

The fuel operated heater (FOH)
stops automatically when the fuel
tank volume is less than or equal to
10% of the total tank. The FOH fuel
lines will not need to be primed if
the vehicle runs out of fuel.

Fuel Filter Replacement

Pickup Models

Warning

{

Diesel fuel is flammable. It could
start a fire if something ignites it,
and people could be burned. Do
not let it get on hot engine parts,
and keep matches or other
ignition sources away.

The fuel filter is located in the
engine compartment on the
passenger side of the vehicle.

1. Drain any water from the filter.
See “Removing Water from Fuel”
in Water in Fuel on page 9-28.

Keep the engine off until the
procedure is completed.

2. Apply the parking brake.

3. Access the fuel filter through the
passenger side wheel house
opening. Remove only the
necessary fasteners to allow the
rear of the wheel liner to be
lowered enough for fuel filter
access.

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Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-34 Driving and Operating

4. Unplug the water sensor wire
connected to the fuel filter and
unscrew the filter element.

5. Clean the fuel filter area on the
engine before removing the
fuel filter.

Caution

{

Failure to cover the fuel filter with
a clean cloth to keep out debris
when replacing may cause dirt to
get into the engine. This could
cause engine damage. Keep the
fuel filter covered with a clean
cloth when replacing.

6. Remove the filter element.
If there is any dirt on the filter
sealing surface, clean it off.
Remove and reuse the water
sensor float switch on the
bottom of the fuel filter.

7. Install the new filter element.

8. Reinstall and tighten the filter
container and reconnect the
water sensor wire to the filter.

9. Reposition the wheel liner.

10. Install and tighten the

fasteners.

11. Use the fuel filter priming

procedure earlier in this section
to prime the fuel filter.

12. Start the engine and let it idle

for five minutes. Check the fuel
filter and air bleed valve for
leaks.

13. Reset the fuel filter monitor.

See Fuel System Messages on
page 5-13.

Van Models

If the fuel operated heater (FOH) is
not working, the FOH line requires
priming. See your dealer for service.
See Fuel Operated Heater (FOH) on
page 9-10.

Warning

{

Diesel fuel is flammable. It could
start a fire if something ignites it,
and people could be burned. Do
not let it get on hot engine parts,
and keep matches or other
ignition sources away.

The fuel filter and fuel pump screen
are on the driver side frame rail in
front of the fuel tank.

The fuel pump screen should be
inspected and cleaned if necessary
at each fuel filter inspection or
replacement.

The fuel level must be less than
three-quarters full.

1. Drain any water from the filter.
See “Removing Water From
Fuel” in Water in Fuel on
page 9-28.

2. Keep the engine off until the
procedure is completed.

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Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-35

Fuel Filter

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. Unplug the water sensor wire
connected to the fuel filter
(lowest wire) and unscrew the
filter cap.

3. Remove the filter element.
If there is any dirt on the filter
sealing surface, clean it off.

4. Install the new filter element.

5. Reinstall and tighten the filter
cap and reconnect the water
sensor wire to the filter.

6. Follow the vehicle fuel system
priming procedure earlier in this
section to re-prime the system.

7. Start the engine and let it idle for
five minutes.

Fuel Pump Screen

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. Unscrew the fuel pump
screen bowl.

3. Remove the filter element.
If there is any dirt on the filter
sealing surface, clean it off.

4. Clean the fuel pump screen and
fuel pump screen bowl o-ring.

5. Inspect the screen and o-ring for
damage. Replace as necessary.

6. Install the fuel pump screen and
o-ring.

7. Install the fuel pump
screen bowl.

8. Follow the vehicle fuel system
priming procedure earlier in this
section to re-prime the system.

9. Start the vehicle and let it idle for
five minutes.

Black plate (36,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

9-36 Driving and Operating

Filling the Tank

Warning

{

Fuel vapors and fuel fires burn
violently and can cause injury or
death.

.

To help avoid injuries to you
and others, read and follow
all the instructions on the fuel
pump island.

.

Turn off the engine when
refueling.

.

Keep sparks, flames, and

Warning (Continued)

.

Keep children away from the
fuel pump and never let
children pump fuel.

.

Fuel can spray out if the fuel
cap is opened too quickly.
This spray can happen if the
tank is nearly full, and is
more likely in hot weather.
Open the fuel cap slowly and
wait for any hiss noise to stop
then unscrew the cap all

the way.
smoking materials away
from fuel.

.

Do not leave the fuel pump
unattended.

.

Do not reenter the vehicle
while pumping fuel.

(Continued)

Van Shown, Pickup Similar

The green fuel cap is behind a
hinged door on the driver side of the
vehicle. On van models, the blue
diesel exhaust fluid cap is also
behind the fuel door. Do not remove
both caps at the same time.

For chassis-cab models, refuel the
front tank first, or in instances when
only a partial fuel fill is desired. An
automatic transfer mechanism will
maintain approximately equal fuel
levels in both tanks, so no switching
is required by the operator.

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Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - CRC - 6/5/14

Driving and Operating 9-37

To remove the fuel cap, turn it
slowly to the left (counterclockwise).

Be careful not to spill diesel fuel. Do
not top off or overfill your tank, and
wait a few seconds after you have
finished pumping before you remove
the nozzle. Clean fuel from painted
surfaces as soon as possible. See
“Washing the Vehicle” in the owner
manual. When you put the fuel cap
back on, turn it to the right
(clockwise) until you hear a clicking
sound. Make sure you fully install
the cap.

Warning

{

If a fire starts while you are
refueling, do not remove the
nozzle. Shut off the flow of fuel by
shutting off the pump or by
notifying the station attendant.
Leave the area immediately.

Caution

{

If a new fuel cap is needed, be
sure to get the right type of cap
from your dealer. The wrong type
of fuel cap might not fit properly
and could damage the fuel tank
and emissions system.

Caution

{

If your vehicle has been
accidentally filled with gasoline,
do not run the engine or severe
engine damage can occur.
Contact your dealer to have the
fuel system flushed.

Filling a Portable Fuel Container

Warning

{

Filling a portable fuel container
while it is in the vehicle can cause
fuel vapors that can ignite either
by static electricity or other
means. You or others could be
badly burned and the vehicle
could be damaged. Always:

.

Use approved fuel
containers.

.

Remove the container from
the vehicle, trunk, or pickup
bed before filling.

.

Place the container on the
ground.

(Continued)

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9-38 Driving and Operating

Warning (Continued)

.

Place the nozzle inside the fill
opening of the container
before dispensing fuel, and
keep it in contact with the fill
opening until filling is
complete.

.

Fill the container no more
than 95% full to allow for
expansion.

.

Do not smoke, light matches,
or use lighters while
pumping fuel.

.

Avoid using cell phones or
other electronic devices.

Towing

Trailer Towing

When towing at high elevation on
steep uphill grades, consider the
following:

Engine coolant at higher elevation
will boil at a lower temperature than
at or near sea level. If the engine is
turned off immediately after towing
at high elevation on steep uphill
grades, the vehicle may show signs
similar to engine overheating. To
avoid this, let the engine run while
parked (preferably on level ground)
with the transmission in P (Park)
and the parking brake applied for at
least five minutes before turning the
engine off. If the overheat warning
comes on, see Engine Overheating
on page 10-23.

Use the following chart to determine
how much the vehicle can weigh,
based upon your vehicle model
and options.

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Driving and Operating 9-39

Vehicle Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.

C-2500 Pickup Models – 2WD

Pickup Model Double Cab
Standard Box

Pickup Model Crew Cab Standard

1

Box

Pickup Model Regular Cab Long

1

Box

Pickup Model Double Cab Long

1

Box

Pickup Model Crew Cab Long

1

Box

1

3.73 7 983 kg (17,600 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 7 893 kg (17,400 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 8 119 kg (17,900 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 7 938 kg (17,500 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 7 847 kg (17,300 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

K-2500 Pickup Models – 4WD

Pickup Model Double Cab
Standard Box

Pickup Model Crew Cab Standard

1

Box

Pickup Model Regular Cab Long

1

Box

Pickup Model Double Cab Long

1

Box

1

3.73 7 847 kg (17,300 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 7 757 kg (17,100 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 7 983 kg (17,600 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 7 802 kg (17,200 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

8

GCWR *

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9-40 Driving and Operating

Vehicle Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.

Pickup Model Crew Cab Long

5

Box

3.73 7 439 kg (16,400 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

C-3500 Pickup Model Double Cab Long Box – 2WD

Single Rear Wheels

Dual Rear Wheels

1

3

3.73 7 938 kg (17,500 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 10 433 kg (23,000 lb) 13 835 kg (30,500 lb)

C-3500 Pickup Model Crew Cab Standard Box – 2WD

Single Rear Wheels

1

3.73 7 893 kg (17,400 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

C-3500 Pickup Model Crew Cab Long Box – 2WD

Single Rear Wheels

Dual Rear Wheels

1

3

3.73 7 847 kg (17,300 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 10 387 kg (22,900 lb) 13 835 kg (30,500 lb)

K-3500 Pickup Model Regular Cab – 4WD

Single Rear Wheels

Dual Rear Wheels

1

2

3.73 7 938 kg (17,500 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 10 523 kg (23,200 lb) 13 835 kg (30,500 lb)

K-3500 Pickup Model Double Cab Long Box – 4WD

Single Rear Wheels

Dual Rear Wheels

1

4

3.73 7 802 kg (17,200 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 10 342 kg (22,800 lb) 13 835 kg (30,500 lb)

8

GCWR *

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Driving and Operating 9-41

Vehicle Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.

K-3500 Pickup Model Crew Cab Standard Box – 4WD

Single Rear Wheels

1

3.73 7 757 kg (17,100 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

K-3500 Pickup Model Crew Cab Long Box – 4WD

Single Rear Wheels

Dual Rear Wheels

6

7

3.73 7 666 kg (16,900 lb) 11 113 kg (24,500 lb)

3.73 10 251 kg (22,600 lb) 13 835 kg (30,500 lb)

C/K-3500 Chassis Cab – 2WD/4WD

All 3.73

Van Models – 2WD

G2500 Cargo Van Short

3.54 4 536 kg (10,000 lb) 7 711 kg (17,000 lb)

Wheelbase

G2500 Cargo Van Long

3.54 4 536 kg (10,000 lb) 7 711 kg (17,000 lb)

Wheelbase

G3500 Cargo Van Short

3.54 4 536 kg (10,000 lb) 7 711 kg (17,000 lb)

Wheelbase

G3500 Cargo Van Long

3.54 4 536 kg (10,000 lb) 8 391 kg (18,500 lb)

Wheelbase

G3500 Passenger Van Short

3.54 4 536 kg (10,000 lb) 7 711 kg (17,000 lb)

Wheelbase

8

9

GCWR *

13 835 kg (30,500 lb)

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9-42 Driving and Operating

Vehicle Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.

G3500 Passenger Van Long

3.54 4 400 kg (9,700 lb) 7 711 kg (17,000 lb)

8

GCWR *

Wheelbase

G3500 Cutaway Van 159”

3.54

9

7 257 kg (16,000 lb)

Wheelbase

G3500 Cutaway Van 139”

3.54

9

7 711 kg (17,000 lb)

Wheelbase

G3500 Cutaway Van 155” and

3.73

9

8 391 kg (18,5000 lb)

159” Wheelbase

*The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and
trailer including any passengers, cargo, equipment, and conversions. The GCWR for the vehicle should not be
exceeded.

1

Trailer rating limited to 5 897 kg (13,000 lb) with conventional hitch.

2

Trailer rating limited to 7 257 kg (16,000 lb) with conventional hitch.

3

Trailer rating limited to 7 484 kg (16,500 lb) with conventional hitch.

4

Trailer rating limited to 8 165 kg (18,000 lb) with conventional hitch.

5

Trailer rating limited to 6 577 kg (14,500 lb) with conventional hitch.

6

Trailer rating limited to 6 804 kg (15,000 lb) with conventional hitch.

7

Trailer rating limited to 8 896 kg (19,600 lb) with conventional hitch.

8

For chassis cab and pickup box delete vehicles, choose an appropriate hitch and load the truck and trailer within

the limits of GCWR, GVWR, and RGAWR.

9

Maximum Trailer Weight cannot be provided because total vehicle weight is unknown.

See “Towing a Trailer” in the owner manual for kingpin weight and trailer tongue weight information.

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Conversions and Add-Ons

Power Take-Off (PTO)

The PTO is an upfitter integrated
system that allows the user to
create an auxiliary power source for
running add-on equipment, such as
salt spreaders, snow plows,
winches, and lift buckets. The PTO
system controls engine speed to
values higher than normal base idle,
PTO load relay engagement, and
remote starting and shutdown of the
engine.

Primary PTO Operating Modes

PTO modes of operation include:

.

Preset PTO Mode (Stationary
operation only)

.

Variable PTO Mode (Stationary
and mobile operation)

The PTO stationary mode provides
both in-cab and remote controls.
The in-cab controls are enabled as

the factory preset. The remote
controls are disabled. This factory
preset configuration can be
programmed to enable the remote
controls, and/or disable the in-cab
PTO controls. See your dealer for
more information.

PTO Sub-Modes

The primary PTO modes have the
following sub-modes:

.

Engine speed control, PTO load
relay engagement/
disengagement

.

Remote engine start and
shutdown (Stationary
operation only)

PTO Engage/Disengage
Conditions

Engage Conditions –
Stationary PTO

To engage stationary PTO
operation, the following conditions
must be met:

.

The engine must be running.

Driving and Operating 9-43

.

The vehicle cannot be moving
and the parking brake must
be set.

.

The shift lever must be in
P (Park).

.

The brake pedal must not be
pressed.

For in-cab PTO operation:

Press and release the PTO switch
located below the climate controls in
the center of the vehicle instrument
panel. The PTO indicator light, on
the tachometer, will blink fast until
the PTO load becomes engaged.
The indicator light will then be on
steady. The SET– and +RES cruise
control buttons can then be used to
establish the desired PTO operating
speed.

For remote PTO operation:

Press and release the PTO remote
arm switch, then within
five seconds, press and release the
PTO remote engine start/shutdown
switch. The PTO remote set switch
can then be used to establish the

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9-44 Driving and Operating

desired PTO operating speed.
Additional information is available in
the service manual for the correct
wiring configuration and
programming of the remote PTO
enable and set switches. These
switch connections are accessed
through the PTO upfitter connector,
located on the chassis frame,
behind the vehicle compartment.

Enabling Conditions – Mobile PTO

To engage mobile PTO operation,
the following conditions must be met
prior to turning on PTO:

.

The engine must be running.

.

The vehicle speed must be less
than the PTO top vehicle speed
limit. The default setting is
94 km/h (58 mph). This limit can
be adjusted by a service
technician.

.

The shift lever may be in M1, M2
or M3. When placed in M2 or
M3, the vehicle will upshift
according to engine RPM set
point and vehicle speed.

.

The brake must be pressed and
then released. The brake must
then remain released.

.

Cruise control cannot be
enabled or active.

.

Engine speed must be less than
the maximum allowed PTO
engage speed of 1500 rpm.

.

Press and release the PTO in
cab switch. The PTO indicator
light will blink fast until the PTO
load becomes engaged, at which
point the indicator light will be on
steady. The SET– and +RES
cruise control buttons can then
be used to establish the desired
PTO operating speed. See
“Variable PTO Mode” and “PTO
Switch Operation” later in this
section.

DIC WARNING MESSAGES

One or more of the following Driver
Information Center (DIC) messages
may appear if the PTO will not

engage. The operator must take the
action indicated, then attempt to
re-enable PTO.

.

PTO: SHIFT TO PARK OR
NEUTRAL (Stationary only)

.

PTO: SET PARK BRAKE
(Stationary only)

.

PTO: PRESS & RELEASE
BRAKE (Mobile only)

.

PTO: RELEASE BRAKE

.

PTO: REDUCE VEHICLE
SPEED

.

PTO: REDUCE ENGINE SPEED

.

PTO: DISENGAGE CRUISE
CONTROL (Mobile only)

In addition to these messages, the
PTO indicator light will indicate
when all conditions required to
engage PTO have not been met.
When enabling PTO, the indicator
light will turn on, then off after
one second. Under normal
operating conditions, the PTO
indicator light will remain on
throughout the PTO operating cycle.

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Driving and Operating 9-45

PTO Disengage Conditions

To disengage the stationary or
mobile PTO operation, do one of the
following:

.

Press the brake. PTO will
disengage immediately. The
PTO indicator light will blink
slowly, indicating that the PTO
set speed is stored in memory.
Pressing the +RES switch will
restore engine speed to the
stored PTO set speed. PTO can
also be programmed to
reengage at PTO standby speed
upon releasing the brake pedal.

.

Press and release the PTO
in-cab switch. The engine speed
will return to normal engine idle.
The PTO indicator light will go
off indicating the PTO load relay
has been disengaged and PTO
set speed has been cleared from
memory.

.

From the remote PTO controls,
Press and release the
emergency stop switch. PTO is

disengaged and the engine is
shut down simultaneously.
(Stationary remote PTO only)

.

From the remote PTO controls,
press and release the remote
engine start/shutdown switch.
PTO is disengaged and the
engine is shut down
simultaneously. (Stationary
remote PTO only)

The mobile PTO mode will also
disengage if the following conditions
are detected by the vehicle
electronics:

.

The PTO load becomes
disengaged. (See service
manual.)

.

Vehicle speed exceeds 94 km/h
(58 mph).

.

Engine speed exceeds the
maximum allowed PTO
operating speed of 3100 rpm
(factory setting 2100 rpm).

.

The PTO control system will
attempt to limit accelerator pedal
and PTO switch input as the

vehicle approaches the above
operational limits. There are
some vehicle conditions, such
as downhill acceleration, that
may cause vehicle speed and/or
engine speed limits to be
exceeded. Under these
conditions, PTO is disengaged.

The stationary PTO mode will also
disengage if any of the following
conditions are detected by the
vehicle electronics:

.

Movement of the vehicle.

.

The parking brake is released.

.

The transmission is shifted from
P (Park) or N (Neutral) to
D (Drive) or R (Reverse).

.

The PTO load becomes
disengaged. (See service
manual.)

.

Cruise control is enabled.

Preset PTO Mode

Preset PTO can only be used when
the vehicle is not moving. This
mode provides both in-cab and

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9-46 Driving and Operating

remote controls. The in-cab controls
are enabled as the factory preset.
The remote controls are disabled.
This factory preset configuration can
also be reprogrammed to enable the
remote controls, and disable the
in-cab PTO controls. See your
dealer for more information.

For in-cab PTO mode, the engine
speed is initially set to a stand-by
engine speed (900 rpm) by pressing
the PTO in-cab switch.

For remote PTO mode, with the
engine off, press and release the
PTO remote arm switch and within
5 seconds press and release the
PTO remote start/shutdown switch.
The engine speed is initially set to a
stand-by engine speed (900 rpm).
The stand-by engine speed can be
set to a higher speed by a service
technician.

Choose one of two factory presets
by pressing the SET– (speed 1) or
+RES (speed 2) switches, or PTO
remote SET switch. Speed 1 and
Speed 2 are programmable by a

service technician from base engine
idle rpm to max PTO operation
speed (3100 rpm).

.

Speed 1: Pressing the −/SET
position of the PTO switch
results in a preset speed of
1200 rpm.

.

Speed 2: Pressing the +/RES
position of the PTO switch
results in a preset speed of
1900 rpm.

Pressing and releasing the PTO
in-cab switch will return the engine
speed back to normal idle. The PTO
load relay is also disengaged. IN the
remote mode, pressing and
releasing the PTO remote start/
shutdown switch will disengage the
load and shut down the engine.

Maximum PTO Operating Speed:
To protect the PTO from
over-speed, the PTO system will
disengage when the engine speed
exceeds 3100 rpm. The factory
preset maximum PTO operating

speed is 2100 rpm. This can be
reprogrammed by a service
technician.

Variable PTO Mode

In this mode, the vehicle can be
programmed for stationary or mobile
operation.

The variable PTO mode controls
engine speed, and PTO load
engagement is selected by either
the PTO in-cab or remote switches.
Engine speed selection is variable
between base engine idle speed
and a maximum of 3100 rpm
(factory setting 2100 rpm).

In the mobile PTO mode, the
vehicle will operate at a vehicle
speed resulting from the current
PTO engine speed request and
current transmission gear range
selected.

Vehicle speed stability is greatly
improved by operating the
transmission in manual mode
because upshifts are limited. Mobile
PTO is only available in M1, M2,

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Driving and Operating 9-47

and M3. This reduces the maximum
vehicle speed while allowing high
engine speed operation.

PTO Switch Operation

To engage PTO, press and release
the in-cab PTO switch or, press and
release the remote PTO arm switch,
then within five seconds, press and
release the PTO remote start/
shutdown switch. The vehicle will
increase engine speed to a factory
preset engine speed (900 rpm). This
PTO stand-by speed is not intended
to be an operational PTO speed, but
allows the engagement of the PTO
at lower initial start-up rpm to match
with the engagement of the PTO
load relay.

The initial stand-by speed can be
adjusted by holding the accelerator
to the desired engine speed, then
pressing and releasing the in-cab
PTO switch. The current engine
speed will become the new stand-by
speed. This adjustment can only be
done once at the initial engagement
of PTO. The initial stand-by speed

adjustment must be between engine
base idle speed and 1500 rpm
(maximum PTO engage speed).

Press and release the in-cab switch.
The engine speed will be reduced to
the base idle speed and the PTO
load relay will be disengaged. In
remote mode, press and release the
PTO remote start/shutdown switch.

PTO Operational Speed Control

SET: Press and hold the

accelerator to obtain the desired
engine speed, then press and
release the SET– switch. The
current engine speed will be
maintained. This action can be
repeated as desired to a higher rpm
value. The PTO set speed cannot
exceed 3100 rpm.

TAP-DOWN: Press and release the
SET– switch to reduce the engine
speed by increments of 100 rpm.
This increment can be adjusted by a
service technician.

COAST: Press and hold the SET–
switch to reduce the rpm by 150 rpm
per second until the desired engine
speed is reached or until the initial
PTO standby speed is reached.

RESUME: When a PTO set speed
has been achieved, press and
release the brake pedal. Engine
speed will reduce to basic idle
speed. The PTO indicator light will
blink slowly indicating the previous
PTO set speed has been retained in
memory. Press and release the
+RES switch to resume the previous
PTO set speed.

TAP-UP: Press and release the
+RES switch to increase the engine
speed by increments of 100 rpm.
This increment can be adjusted by a
service technician.

ACCEL: Press and hold the +RES
switch to increase the rpm by
150 rpm per second until the desired
engine speed is reached or until the
maximum allowable PTO set speed
is reached.

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9-48 Driving and Operating

Remote Engine Start Control

The vehicle’s PTO system allows
the engine to be remotely started
while operating in the stationary
PTO mode. The vehicle wiring
system provides for connections to
a remote start arming switch and
remote engine start switch. These
connections are accessed through
the upfitter connector.

The remote start function is initiated
by a sequence of switch actions, in
addition to several vehicle
conditions. The vehicle ignition key
can be in any position or removed
from the ignition. The following
conditions must be met before
attempting to remote start the
engine:

.

The vehicle must be configured
for stationary PTO operation by
a qualified dealer.

.

The parking brake must be set.

.

The transmission shift lever must
be in P (Park).

.

The vehicle hood must be
closed.

Once the above conditions are met,
continue the remote start by doing
the following steps using the remote
PTO controls:

1. Press and release the remote
arm switch.

2. Within five seconds of releasing
the remote arm switch, press
and hold the remote engine
start/shutdown switch for about
two seconds (horn will sound)
until the engine starts. The PTO
system will raise engine rpm to
standby speed and engage the
PTO load.

Remote Engine Shutdown
Control

The vehicle’s PTO system allows for
remote engine shutdown while
operating in the stationary PTO
mode. This feature has the following
functions:

.

Engine shutdown using the
operator remote switch: The
vehicle wiring system provides
remote engine shutdown switch
connections, which are
accessed through the PTO
upfitter connector.

.

Timed auto-engine shutdown:
The timed auto-engine shutdown
feature provides the means to
shut down the engine
automatically after a predefined
time. PTO must be operational
for this function to be active.

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.

Engine shutdown based on
critical engine conditions: The
engine will be shut down when
PTO is operating if a critical
engine condition is detected by
the vehicle system (i.e., low oil,
low oil pressure, hot engine, hot
transmission, low fuel, diesel
particulate filter regeneration).
If PTO operation is continued
when critical engine conditions
are present, a horn chirp
warning will occur after two to
five minutes. The engine will be
shut down two minutes after the
horn warning. The operator can
re-start the engine with the
ignition key. The above horn
warning and engine shutdown
will again occur if the critical
engine condition is still present.

Prolonged or Extended PTO
Operation

While operating the vehicle in
stationary PTO mode, the Diesel
Particulate Filter (DPF) will continue
to filter the exhaust and accumulate
soot. The engine control system,
depending on the speed and load
being applied by the PTO, may not
be able to generate enough energy
or adequate heat needed to clean or
regenerate the DPF. Continued
operation under conditions that do
not allow effective regeneration or
cleaning will eventually plug the
DPF and result in reduced power.
The ENGINE POWER IS
REDUCED Driver Information
Center (DIC) message and
malfunction indicator lamp will be
displayed, and dealer service will be
required to return the vehicle to
normal, full power operation.

Driving and Operating 9-49

To prevent this from occurring,
frequently monitor the vehicle during
PTO operation. If the DIC message
is displayed during PTO operation,
see Diesel Particulate Filter on
page 9-11 for information on how to
clean or regenerate the DPF. Also
see “Remote Engine Shutdown
Control” earlier in this section.

Factory Preset Parameters

The following table lists the factory
preset parameters. These may be
altered by the service technician to
configure the various PTO features.

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Programmable

Parameters

Factory Setting Minimum Value Maximum Value

PTO In-cab Control ENABLED DISABLED ENABLED

PTO Remote Control DISABLED DISABLED ENABLED

Type of Set Switch

MOMENTARY MOMENTARY LATCHING

Operation

Press ON Then Go To Set

DISABLED DISABLED ENABLED

1 Speed

Remote Engine Start DISABLED DISABLED ENABLED

Remote Engine Shutdown DISABLED DISABLED ENABLED

Load Feedback DISABLED DISABLED ENABLED

Engage Relay DISABLED DISABLED ENABLED

Keep Relay Engaged

DISABLED DISABLED ENABLED

During Braking

Action After Brake Is

Released

Set Low Fuel Level for

RETURN TO BASE

IDLE RPM

15% 0 25%

RETURN TO BASE

IDLE RPM

STANDBY RPM

Engine Shutdown

Engine Run Time While

420 min 0 minutes 58 hours

PTO is Active – Timer

RETURN TO

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Driving and Operating 9-51

Programmable

Parameters

Factory Setting Minimum Value Maximum Value

Max. PTO Engine Speed 2100 RPM 500 RPM 3100 RPM

Max. PTO Engage Speed 1500 RPM 0 RPM 1500 RPM

PTO Standby RPM 900 RPM 500 RPM Normal engine

PTO Set Speed 1 1200 RPM 500 RPM PTO Set Speed 1

PTO Set Speed 2 1900 RPM 500 RPM PTO Set Speed 2

Tap Step 100 RPM 4 RPM 500 RPM

Ramp Rate 150 RPM 4 RPM 150 RPM

Maximum Vehicle Speed 94 km/h 30 km/h 94 km/h

Minimum Remote

5% 0% 50%

Potentiomete Threshold

Maximum Remote

95% 50% 100%

Potentiomete Threshold

idle will override if higher

1500 RPM

than Standby Speed

3100 RPM

cannot be set below PTO

Standby speed

3100 RPM

cannot be set below PTO

Standby speed

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9-52 Driving and Operating

Programmable

Parameters

Remote Set Switch

Factory Setting Minimum Value Maximum Value

SET SPEED 1 STANDBY SPEED, SET SPEED 1, or SET SPEED 2
Transition to Low
Voltage (<1.66 V)

Remote Set Switch

PTO STANDBY STANDBY SPEED, SET SPEED 1, or SET SPEED 2

Transition to Open State

(>1.66 V, <3.33 V)

Remote Set Switch

SET SPEED 2 STANDBY SPEED, SET SPEED 1, or SET SPEED 2

Transition to High

Voltage (>3.33 V)

If the PTO factory preset
parameters do not match the
settings described above, then they
may have already been altered in

See www.gmupfitter.com for more
information on the installation of
wiring and programming for PTO

aftermarket equipment.
order to satisfy the requirements of
the installed PTO system and body
equipment.

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Vehicle Care 10-1

Vehicle Care

General Information

Accessories and

Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

Vehicle Checks

Engine Compartment

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6

Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . 10-9

Automatic Transmission

Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-9

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . 10-15

Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-17

Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-18

Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . 10-23

General Information

Accessories and Modifications

Adding non-dealer accessories or
making modifications to the vehicle
can affect vehicle performance and
safety, including such things as
airbags, braking, stability, ride and
handling, emissions systems,
aerodynamics, durability, and
electronic systems like antilock
brakes, traction control, and stability
control. These accessories or
modifications could even cause
malfunction or damage not covered
by the vehicle warranty.

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 warranty coverage for
affected parts.

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.

See the warranty manual.

Aftermarket Engine
Performance Enhancement
Products and Modifications

Some aftermarket engine
performance products and
modifications promise a way to
increase the horsepower and torque
levels of the vehicle's powertrain.
You should be aware that these
products could have harmful effects
on the performance and life of the
engine, exhaust emission system,
transmission, and drivetrain. The
engines, transmissions, and
drivetrains have been designed and
built to offer industry leading
durability and performance in the
most demanding applications.

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10-2 Vehicle Care

Engine power enhancement
products may enable the engine to
operate at horsepower and torque
levels that could damage, create
failure, or reduce the life of the
engine, engine emission system,
transmission, and drivetrain.
Damage, failure, or reduced life of
the engine, transmission, emission
system, drivetrain, or other vehicle
components caused by aftermarket
engine performance enhancement
products or modifications might not
be covered under the vehicle
warranty.

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Vehicle Checks

Engine Compartment Overview

Vehicle Care 10-3

United States Pickup Models Shown, Canada Similar

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10-4 Vehicle Care

1. Remote Positive (+) Terminal

2. Battery

3. Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap

4. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

5. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
Fill Tube

6. Engine Oil Dipstick

7. Engine Oil Fill Cap

8. Engine Fan (Out of View)

9. Automatic Transmission Dipstick

10. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir

11. Brake Fluid Reservoir

12. Windshield Washer Fluid

Reservoir

13. Auxiliary Battery

14. Underhood Fuse Block

15. Remote Negative (-) Terminal

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United States Van Models Shown, Canada Similar

Vehicle Care 10-5

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7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

10-6 Vehicle Care

1. Battery

2. Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap

3. Automatic Transmission Dipstick

4. Engine Oil Dipstick

5. Engine Fan (Out of View)

6. Engine Oil Fill Cap

7. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

8. Air Cleaner/Filter Restriction
Indicator

9. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir

10. Brake Fluid Reservoir

11. Windshield Washer Fluid

Reservoir

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:

.

Always 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” in the owner
manual.

.

Always dispose of engine oil
properly. See “What to Do with
Used Oil” in this section.

Checking Engine Oil

It is a good idea to check the engine
oil level at each fuel fill. In order to
get an accurate reading, the oil
must be warm, at normal operating
temperature, and the vehicle must
be on level ground. The engine oil
dipstick handle is a loop. See

Engine Compartment Overview on
page 10-3 for the location of the

engine oil dipstick.

Obtaining an accurate oil level
reading is essential:

1. Turn off the engine and allow at
least five minutes for the oil to
drain back into the oil pan. With
a cool engine, allow 30 minutes.
Checking the oil level too soon
after engine shutoff will not
provide an accurate oil level
reading.

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Vehicle Care 10-7

Warning

{

The engine oil dipstick handle
may be hot; it could burn you.
Use a towel or glove to touch the
dipstick handle.

2. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it
with a clean paper towel or a
cloth, then push it back in all the
way. Remove it again, keeping
the tip down.

When to Add Engine Oil

If the oil is below the cross-hatched
area at the tip of the dipstick, add
1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil
and then recheck the level. See
“Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in
this section for an explanation of

what kind of oil to use. For engine
oil crankcase capacity, see

Capacities and Specifications on
page 12-2.

{

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 you find that you
have an oil level 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. You should drain
out the excess oil or limit driving
of the vehicle and seek a service
professional to remove the
excess amount of oil.

See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10-3 for the location of the
engine oil fill cap.

Caution

Be sure to 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

Specification

Oils designated as API CJ-4 are
required for the vehicle. The CJ-4
designation can appear either alone
or in combination with other
American Petroleum Institute (API)
designations, such as API CJ-4/SL.
These letters show API levels of
quality.

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10-8 Vehicle Care

American Petroleum Institute (API)
symbol

This doughnut-shaped logo
(symbol) is used on most oil
containers to help you select the
correct oil. It means that the oil has
been certified by the American
Petroleum Institute.

Look for this on the oil container,
and use only those oils that display
this logo.

Caution

{

Use only engine oils that have the
designation CJ-4 for the diesel
engine. Failure to use the
recommended oil can damage the
DPF and result in engine damage
not covered by the vehicle
warranty.

Viscosity Grade

Use SAE 15W-40 viscosity grade
engine oil.

When it is very cold, below −18°C
(0°F), use SAE 5W-40 to improve
cold starting. These numbers on the
oil container show its viscosity,
or thickness.

When selecting an oil of the
appropriate viscosity grade, always
select an oil of the correct
specification. See “Specification”
earlier in this section.

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Vehicle Care 10-9

Engine Oil Additives/Engine
Oil Flushes

Do not add anything to the oil. The
recommended oils with the API
service symbol 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

The engine oil life system calculates
engine oil life based on vehicle use
and displays the CHANGE ENGINE
OIL SOON message when it is time
to change the engine oil and filter.
The oil life system should be reset
to 100% only following an oil
change. See “Engine Oil Life
System” in the owner manual.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

When to Check and Change
(Pickup Models)

Change the fluid and filter at the
intervals listed. See Maintenance
Schedule on page 11-3.

And be sure to use the transmission
fluid listed in Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 11-8.

How to Check

Because this operation can be a
little difficult, the decision may be
made to have this done at the
dealer.

If the decision is made to perform
this operation, be sure to follow all
the instructions here, or a false
reading on the dipstick could result.

Caution

{

Too much or too little fluid can
damage the transmission. Too
much can mean that some of the
fluid could come out and fall on
hot engine parts or exhaust
system parts, starting a fire. Too
little fluid could cause the
transmission to overheat. Be sure
to get an accurate reading if
checking the transmission fluid.

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10-10 Vehicle Care

Wait at least 30 minutes before
checking the transmission fluid level
if the vehicle has been driven:

.

When outside temperatures are
above 32°C (90°F).

.

At high speed for quite a while.

.

In heavy traffic — especially in
hot weather.

.

While pulling a trailer.

Checking the Fluid Level

Prepare the vehicle as follows:

.

Park the vehicle on a level
place. Keep the engine running.

.

With the parking brake applied,
place the shift lever in P (Park).

.

With a foot on the brake pedal,
run the engine for at least
one minute and shift to D
(Drive). Then shift to N (Neutral)
and then R (Reverse) to fill the
hydraulic system. Then, put the
shift lever in P (Park).

.

Allow the engine to run at idle
(500 – 800 rpm). Slowly release
the brake pedal.

Then, without shutting off the
engine, follow these steps:

Cold Check Procedure

The purpose of the cold check is to
determine if the transmission has
enough fluid to be operated safely
until a hot check can be made. The
fluid level rises as fluid temperature
increases. DO NOT fill above the
COLD band if the transmission fluid
is below normal operating
temperatures.

1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it
with a clean rag or paper towel.
The transmission dipstick is
located near the center of the

engine compartment. See

Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10-3 for location.

2. Push it back in all the way, wait
three seconds, and then pull it
back out again.

3. Check the fluid level reading.
Repeat the check procedure to
verify the reading.

4. If the fluid level is within the
COLD band, the transmission
may be operated until the fluid is
hot enough to perform a hot
check. If the fluid level is not
within the COLD band, add or
drain fluid as necessary to bring
the level into the middle of the
COLD band.

5. Perform a hot check at the first
opportunity after the normal
operating temperature of 71°C
(160°F) to 93°C (200°F) is
reached.

6. If the fluid level is in the
acceptable range, push the
dipstick back in all the way.

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Vehicle Care 10-11

Hot Check Procedure

The fluid must be hot to ensure an
accurate check. The fluid level rises
as temperature increases.

1. Operate the transmission in D
(Drive) until the normal operating
temperature of 71°C (160°F) to
93°C (200°F) is reached.

2. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it
with a clean rag or paper towel.

3. Push it back in all the way, wait
three seconds and then pull it
back out again. Repeat the
check procedure to verify the
reading.

4. Safe operating level is within the
HOT band on the dipstick. The
width of the HOT band
represents approximately 1.0 L
(1.06 qt) of fluid at normal
operating temperature.

5. If the fluid level is not within the
HOT band, add or drain fluid as
necessary to bring the fluid level
to within the HOT band.

6. If the fluid level is in the
acceptable range, push the
dipstick back in all the way.

Consistency of Readings

Always check the fluid level at least
twice using the procedures
described previously. Consistency is
important to maintaining proper fluid
level. If inconsistent readings
persist, check the transmission
breather to be sure it is clean and
unclogged. If readings are still
inconsistent, contact the dealer.

How to Add Fluid

In cold operation, Allison
recommends using Synthetic
Transmission Fluid approved to
Allison Transmission specification
TES-295 in areas where the
minimum ambient temperatures are
below −40°C (−40°F).

Refer to the Maintenance Schedule
to determine what kind of
transmission fluid to use. See

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

Add fluid only after checking the
transmission fluid while it is hot.
A cold check is used only as a
reference. If the fluid level is low,
add only enough of the proper fluid
to bring the level up to the HOT area
for a hot check. It does not take
much fluid, generally less than 0.5 L
(1 pt). Do not overfill.

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
automatic transmission fluid listed
in Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

.

After adding fluid, recheck the
fluid level as described under
“How to Check.”

.

When the correct fluid level is
obtained, push the dipstick back
in all the way.

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10-12 Vehicle Care

When to Check and Change
(Van Models)

Change the fluid and filter at the
intervals listed. See Maintenance
Schedule on page 11-3.

Use the transmission fluid listed in

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

How to Check

Because this operation can be a
little difficult, the decision may be
made to have this done at the
dealership service department.

If the decision is made to perform
this operation, be sure to follow all
the instructions here, or a false
reading on the dipstick could result.

Caution

{

Too much or too little fluid can
damage the transmission. Too
much can mean that some of the
fluid could come out and fall on

(Continued)

Caution (Continued)

hot engine parts or exhaust
system parts, starting a fire. Too
little fluid could cause the
transmission to overheat. Be sure
to get an accurate reading if
checking the transmission fluid.

Wait at least 30 minutes before
checking the transmission fluid level
if the vehicle has been driven:

.

When outside temperatures are
above 32° C (90°F).

.

At high speed for quite a while.

.

In heavy traffic — especially in
hot weather.

.

While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid
should be at normal operating
temperature, which is 82°C to 93°C
(180°F to 200°F). Get the vehicle
warmed up by driving about 24 km
(15 mi) when outside temperatures
are above 10°C (50°F). If it is colder

than 10°C (50°F), drive the vehicle
until the engine temperature gauge
moves and then remains steady for
10 minutes.

A cold check can be made after the
vehicle has been sitting for eight
hours or more with the engine off,
but this is used only as a reference.
Let the engine run at idle for
five minutes if outside temperatures
are 10°C (50°F) or more. If it is
colder than 10°C (50°F), the engine
may have to idle longer. Should the
fluid level be low during this cold
check, the fluid must be checked
when hot before adding fluid.
Checking the fluid hot will give you
a more accurate reading of the fluid
level.

Checking the Fluid Level

Prepare the vehicle as follows:

.

Park the vehicle on a level
place. Keep the engine running.

.

With the parking brake applied,
place the shift lever in P (Park).

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.

With a foot on the brake pedal,
move the shift lever through
each gear range, pausing for
about three seconds in each
range. Then, position the shift
lever in P (Park).

.

Let the engine run at idle for
three minutes or more.

Then, without shutting off the
engine, follow these steps:

The transmission dipstick is located
near the center of the engine
compartment and will be labeled
with the graphic shown.

See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10-3 for location.

1. Flip the handle up and then pull
out the dipstick and wipe it with
a clean rag or paper towel.

2. Push it back in all the way, wait
three seconds, and then pull it
back out again.

Check both sides of the dipstick,
and read the lower level. The
fluid level must be in the COLD
area for a cold check or in the
HOT or cross-hatched area for a
hot check. Be sure to keep the
dipstick pointed down to get an
accurate reading.

3. If the fluid level is in the
acceptable range, push the
dipstick in all the way, then flip
the handle down to lock the
dipstick in place.

Vehicle Care 10-13

What Transmission Fluid
to Use

Cold Operation

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

.

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.

Transmission shifting might be
firmer with a cold transmission. This
difference in shift quality is normal.

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10-14 Vehicle Care

1. For areas where ambient
temperatures stay above −40°C
(−40°F), regular transmission
fluid can be used. See

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

2. For areas where ambient
temperatures fall below −40°C
(−40°F), synthetic transmission
fluid approved to Allison
Transmission Specification
should be used. See

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8. The

synthetic transmission fluid can
be used for all temperature
ranges.

How to Add Fluid

See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11-3 to determine what kind of

transmission fluid to use. See

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

Using a funnel, add fluid down the
transmission dipstick tube only after
checking the transmission fluid
while it is hot. A cold check is used
only as a reference. If the fluid level
is low, add only enough of the
proper fluid to bring the level up to
the HOT area for a hot check.
It does not take much fluid,
generally less than 0.5 L (1 pt). Do
not overfill.

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
automatic transmission fluid listed
in Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

.

After adding fluid, recheck the
fluid level as described under
“How to Check” earlier in this
section.

.

When the correct fluid level is
obtained, push the dipstick back
in all the way. Then flip the
handle down to lock the dipstick
in place.

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Vehicle Care 10-15

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

Pickup Models

The air cleaner/filter assembly is on
the front corner of the engine
compartment on the passenger side
of the vehicle.

When to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter

Inspect the air cleaner/filter every
25 000 km (15,000 mi) and replace
the filter if necessary.

How to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter

To inspect the air cleaner/filter,
remove the engine air cleaner/filter
by following Steps 1-9. When the
engine air cleaner/filter is removed,
lightly shake it to release loose dust
and dirt. If the engine air cleaner/
filter remains covered with dirt, a
new filter is required. Never use
compressed air to clean the filter.

1. Cover Screws

2. Cover Electrical Connectors

3. Clamp

To inspect and replace the filter:

1. Disconnect the harness
connectors from the air cleaner
cover electrical connector (2).

2. Loosen the screw on the
clamp (3) holding the air outlet
duct in place. Do not remove the
clamp. Move the air duct aside.

3. Remove the two air cleaner
housing cover screws (1).

4. Raise the air cleaner housing
cover and remove the air
cleaner/filter from the air cleaner
housing. Take care to dislodge
as little dirt as possible.

5. Clean the filter sealing surface
and the housing.

6. Install the new engine air
cleaner/filter.

7. Lower the air cleaner housing
cover and secure with the two
screws.

8. Install the air duct and tighten
the screw on the clamp to
secure it to the air cleaner
housing.

9. Install the harness electrical
connectors.

See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11-3 to determine when to
replace the engine air cleaner/filter.

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10-16 Vehicle Care

Warning

{

Operating the engine with the air
cleaner/filter off can cause you or
others to be burned. The air
cleaner not only cleans the air; it
helps to stop flames if the engine
backfires. Use caution when
working on the engine and do not
drive with the air cleaner/filter off.

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 you are driving.

Van Models

The air cleaner/filter assembly may
have an air cleaner/filter restriction
indicator that shows when the
engine air cleaner/filter is dirty and
needs to be serviced.

The air cleaner/filter restriction
indicator is on the air cleaner
resonator.

When to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter

See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11-3.

How to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter

When the restriction indicator is in
the red/orange “change” zone,
replace the filter and reset the
restriction indicator. The air cleaner/
filter assembly is at the front of the
engine compartment.

1. Cover Screws

2. Restriction Indicator

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Vehicle Care 10-17

To inspect and replace the filter and
reset the restriction indicator:

1. Loosen the screws (1) on the
cover of the housing and lift up
the cover.

2. Remove the air cleaner/filter
from the housing. Take care to
dislodge as little dirt as possible.

3. Clean the filter sealing surface
and the housing.

4. Install the new engine air
cleaner/filter.

5. Reinstall the cover and tighten
the screws.

6. Reset the air cleaner/filter
restriction indicator (2),
if equipped, by pressing the top
button on the indicator.

See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11-3 to determine when to
replace the engine air cleaner/filter.

Warning

{

Operating the engine with the air
cleaner/filter off can cause you or
others to be burned. The air
cleaner not only cleans the air; it
helps to stop flames if the engine
backfires. Use caution when
working on the engine and do not
drive with the air cleaner/filter off.

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 you are driving.

Cooling System

The cooling system allows the
engine to maintain the correct
working temperature.

Pickup Models

1. Coolant Surge Tank

2. Coolant Surge Tank
Pressure Cap

3. Engine Cooling Fan (Out
of View)

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10-18 Vehicle Care

Van Models

Heater and radiator hoses, and
other engine parts, can be very
hot. Do not touch them. If you do,
you can be burned.

Do not run the engine if there is a
leak. If you run the engine, it
could lose all coolant. That could
cause an engine fire, and you
could be burned. Get any leak
fixed before you drive the vehicle.

1. Coolant Surge Tank

2. Coolant Surge Tank
Pressure Cap

3. Engine Cooling Fan (Out
of View)

Using coolant other than
DEX-COOL
premature engine, heater core,
or radiator corrosion. In addition,
the engine coolant could require
changing sooner. Any repairs
would not be covered by the

Warning

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®

can cause

Caution

(Continued)

Caution (Continued)

vehicle warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL (silicate-free) coolant
in the vehicle.

Engine Coolant

The cooling system in the vehicle is
filled with DEX-COOL
coolant. This coolant is designed to
remain in the vehicle for 5 years or
240 000 km (150,000 mi), whichever
occurs first, if you add only
DEX-COOL extended life coolant.

The following explains the cooling
system and how to add coolant
when it is low. If there is a problem
with engine overheating, see Engine
Overheating on page 10-23.

A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and DEX-COOL coolant will:

.

Give freezing protection down to

−37°C (−34°F).

.

Give boiling protection up to
129°C (265°F).

®

engine

Black plate (19,1)

Chevrolet/GMC Duramax Diesel Supplement (GMNA Localizing-U.S./Canada-

7132827) - 2015 - crc - 6/5/14

.

Protect against rust and
corrosion.

.

Help keep the proper engine
temperature.

.

Let the warning lights and
gauges work as they should.

Caution

{

Using coolant other than
DEX-COOL
premature engine, heater core,
or radiator corrosion. In addition,
the engine coolant could require
changing sooner. Any repairs
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL (silicate-free) coolant
in the vehicle.

What to Use

Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,
drinkable water and DEX-COOL
coolant which will not damage

®

can cause

aluminum parts. If using this
mixture, nothing else needs to be
added.

Warning

{

Adding only plain water or some
other liquid to the cooling system
can be dangerous. Plain water
and other liquids, can boil before
the proper coolant mixture will.
The vehicle's coolant warning
system is set for the proper
coolant mixture. With plain water
or the wrong mixture, the engine
could get too hot but you would
not get the 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.

If coolant has to be added more
than four times a year, have the
dealer check the vehicle cooling
system.

Vehicle Care 10-19

Caution

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If improper coolant mixture,
inhibitors, or additives are used in
the vehicle cooling system, the
engine could overheat and be
damaged. Too much water in the
mixture can freeze and crack
engine cooling parts. The repairs
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Use only the
proper mixture of engine coolant
for the cooling system. See

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11-8.

Never dispose of engine coolant by
putting it in the trash, or by 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.