GMC SAVANA 2011 Owner Manual

Black plate (1,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
2011 GMC Savana Owner Manual M
In Brief . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . 1-1
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . .1-4
Performance and
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Keys, Doors and Windows . . . 2-1
Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Vehicle Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Exterior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Interior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .2-17
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Seats and Restraints . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Front Seats . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . 3-2
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..3-24
Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-42
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . 4-1
Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10
Information Displays . . . . . . . .. . 5-27
Vehicle Messages.. . . . . . . . . . . 5-32
Vehicle Personalization.. . . . . . 5-40
Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Interior Lighting . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . 6-5
Lighting Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Radio . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ..7-7
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
Phone . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . 7-23
Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1
Air Vents.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . 9-1
Driving Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Starting and Operating . . . . . . . 9-17
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-24
Automatic Transmission . . . . . .9-25
Drive Systems . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 9-33
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Ride Control Systems . . . . . . . .9-35
Cruise Control . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 9-37
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-46
Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-57
Black plate (2,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
2011 GMC Savana Owner Manual M
Vehicle Care . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . 10-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Vehicle Checks.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-39
Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-86
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-91
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . .10-94
Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . . 11-2
Recommended Fluids,
Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . . 11-7
Maintenance Records . . . . . . . 11-10
Technical Data . . . . . . ......... 12-1
Vehicle Identification.. . . . . . . . 12-1
Vehicle Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Customer Information . . . . . . . 13-1
Customer Information . . . . . . . . 13-1
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . 13-13
Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1
Black plate (3,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011

Introduction iii

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, GMC, the GMC Truck Emblem, and SAVANA are trademarks and/or service marks of General Motors LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates, or licensors.
This manual describes features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle either because they are options that you did not purchase or due to changes subsequent to the printing of this owner manual.
Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 25953302 A First Printing
Please refer to the purchase documentation relating to your specific vehicle to confirm each of the features found on your vehicle. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name General Motors of Canada Limitedfor GMC wherever it appears in this manual.
If the vehicle has the Duramax
®
Diesel engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement for additional and specific information on this engine.
Keep this manual in the vehicle for quick reference.
©
2010 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Canadian Vehicle Owners

Propriétaires Canadiens
A French language copy of this manual can be obtained from your dealer or from:
On peut obtenir un exemplaire de ce guide en français auprès du concessionnaire ou à l'adresse suivante:
Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207
1-800-551-4123 Numéro de poste 6438 de langue française www.helminc.com
Black plate (4,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
iv Introduction

Using this Manual

To quickly locate information about the vehicle, use the Index in the back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual and the page number where it can be found.

Danger, Warnings, and Cautions

Warning messages found on vehicle labels and in this manual describe hazards and what to do to avoid or reduce them.
Danger indicates a hazard with a high level of risk which will result in serious injury or death.
Warning or Caution indicates a hazard that could result in injury or death.
WARNING
{
These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
Notice: This means there is something that could result in property or vehicle damage. This would not be covered by the vehicle's warranty.
A circle with a slash through it is a safety symbol which means Do Not,” “Do not do this,or Do not let this happen.

Symbols

The vehicle has components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a specific component, control, message, gauge, or indicator.
M : This symbol is shown when
you need to see the owner manual for additional instructions or information.
* : This symbol is shown when
you need to see a service manual for additional instructions or information.
Black plate (5,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
Introduction v
Vehicle Symbol Chart
Here are some additional symbols that may be found on the vehicle and what they mean. For more information on the symbol, refer to the Index.
9 : Airbag Readiness Light # : Air Conditioning ! : Antilock Brake System (ABS) g : Audio Steering Wheel Controls
or OnStar
®
$ : Brake System Warning Light " : Charging System
I : Cruise Control
B : Engine Coolant Temperature
O : Exterior Lamps
# : Fog Lamps
. : Fuel Gauge
+ : Fuses
3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam
Changer
j : LATCH System Child
Restraints
* : Malfunction Indicator Lamp : : Oil Pressure
} : Power
/ : Remote Vehicle Start
> : Safety Belt Reminders
7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
_ : Tow/Haul Mode d : Traction Control
M : Windshield Washer Fluid
Black plate (6,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
vi Introduction
2 NOTES
Black plate (1,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-1

In Brief

Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-4
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-5
Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Safety Belts . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Airbag On-Off Switch . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Sensing System for Passenger
Airbag . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Mirror Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Steering Wheel
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Windshield Wiper/Washer .... 1-12
Climate Controls . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-12
Vehicle Features
Radio(s) . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Portable Audio Devices . . . . . . 1-15
Bluetooth
Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . 1-16
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
®
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Performance and Maintenance
StabiliTrak®System . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . 1-18
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . 1-18
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) . . . . . 1-18
Driving for Better Fuel
Economy .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . 1-19
®
OnStar
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Black plate (2,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-2 In Brief

Instrument Panel

Black plate (3,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-3
A. Air Vents on page 87.
B. Driver Information Center (DIC)
Buttons. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 527.
C. Turn and LaneChange Lever.
See Turn and Lane-Change
Signals on page 64.
Windshield Wiper/Washer on page 54.
D. Hazard Warning Flashers on
page 64.
E. Instrument Cluster on
page 511.
F. Shift Lever. See Starting the
Engine on page 919.
Manual Mode on page 931
(If Equipped).
G. Climate Control Systems on
page 81.
H. Infotainment on page 71.
I. Exterior Lamp Controls on
page 61.
J. Instrument Panel Illumination
Control on page 65.
Dome Lamp Override. See Dome Lamps on page 65.
K. Cruise Control on page 937
(If Equipped).
Fast Idle System (If Equipped). See the Duramax diesel supplement for more information.
L. Steering Wheel Adjustment on
page 52.
M. Data Link Connector (DLC).
See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 520.
N. Horn on page 53.
O. Steering Wheel Controls on
page 52.
P. Tow/Haul Mode Button. See
Tow/Haul Modeunder Towing Equipment on page 954.
Q. Power Outlets on page 58.
R. StabiliTrak
®
System on
page 935 (If Equipped).
S. Airbag On-Off Switch on
page 332 (If Equipped) .
T. Front Storage on page 41.
U. Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator on page 519
(If Equipped).
®
OnStar
System Button.
(If Equipped).
V. Rear Heating System on
page 84 (If Equipped).
W. USB Port. See Auxiliary
Devices on page 718.
Black plate (4,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-4 In Brief

Initial Drive Information

This section provides a brief overview about some of the important features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle.
For more detailed information, refer to each of the features which can be found later in this owner manual.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

The RKE transmitter is used to remotely lock and unlock the doors from up to 60 m (195 feet) away from the vehicle.
RKE Transmitter With Remote
Start Shown
K to unlock the driver door.
Press
Press
K again within 5 seconds to
unlock all remaining doors.
j to unlock only the cargo
Press doors.
Q to lock all doors.
Press
Lock and unlock feedback can be personalized.
L and release to locate the
Press vehicle.
Press
L and hold for more than
2 seconds to sound the panic alarm.
L again to cancel the panic
Press alarm.
See Keys on page 22 and Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 23.

Remote Vehicle Start

With this feature the engine can be started from outside of the vehicle.
Starting the Vehicle
1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle.
2. Press
3. Immediately after completing
When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on as long as the engine is running. The doors will be locked and the climate control system may come on.
Q.
Step 2, press and hold the turn signal lamps flash.
/ until
Black plate (5,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-5
The engine will continue to run for 10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a 10-minute time extension. Remote start can be extended only once.
Canceling a Remote Start
To cancel a remote start:
.
Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press and
hold
/ until the parking lamps
turn off.
.
Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
.
Turn the ignition on and then back off.
See Remote Vehicle Start on page 25.

Door Locks

Manual Door Locks
Lock and unlock the door from the outside using the key or the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, if available. From the inside, slide the manual lever on the door up or down.
See Door Locks on page 27.
Power Door Locks
On vehicles with power door locks, the switches are located on the doors.
T : Press to lock and unlock the
doors.
See Power Door Locks on page 28.

Windows

Manual Windows
Operate the manual windows by turning the hand crank on each door to raise or lower the side door windows.
See Manual Windows on page 217.
Black plate (6,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-6 In Brief
Power Windows
If the vehicle has power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors. The driver door also has a control to operate the front passenger window.
Press or pull up on the switch to lower or raise the window.
See Power Windows on page 218.

Seat Adjustment

Manual Seats
To adjust a manual seat:
1. Lift the bar to unlock the seat.
2. Slide the seat to the desired position and release the bar.
3. Try to move the seat back and forth to be sure the seat is locked in place.
See Seat Adjustment on page 32.
Power Seats
To adjust a power seat, if available, use the controls on the front of the seat:
.
Adjust the seat by moving the center knob up, down, right, or left.
.
Raise and lower the front or rear of the seat cushion by moving the right or left lever up or down.
See Power Seat Adjustment on page 33.
Black plate (7,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-7
Reclining Seatbacks
To recline the seatback:
1. Lift the lever on the inboard side of the seat.
2. Move the seatback to the desired position, and then release the lever to lock the seatback in place.
3. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.
To return the seatback to the upright position:
1. Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to the seatback, and the seatback will return to the upright position.
2. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.
See Reclining Seatbacks on page 33.

Safety Belts

Refer to the following sections for important information on how to use safety belts properly.
.
Safety Belts on page 38.
.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly on page 312.
.
Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 318.
.
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 350.
Black plate (8,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-8 In Brief

Airbag On-Off Switch

If the instrument panel has one of the switches pictured in the following illustrations, the vehicle has an airbag on-off switch that you can use to manually turn on or off the right front passenger airbag.
United States
Canada and Mexico
To operate the airbag onoff switch, use the vehicle key.
See Airbag On-Off Switch on page 332 for important information.

Sensing System for Passenger Airbag

The passenger sensing system, if equipped, will turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver airbag and roofrail airbags, if equipped, are not affected by this.
If the vehicle has a passenger sensing system, the passenger airbag status indicator will be visible on the instrument panel when the vehicle is started.
United States
Canada and Mexico
See Passenger Sensing System on page 335 for important information.
Black plate (9,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-9

Mirror Adjustment

Exterior Mirrors
Vehicles with outside manual mirrors can be adjusted by moving the mirror up and down or left to right so you can see a little of the side of your vehicle, and have a clear view of objects behind you.
Vehicles with outside power mirrors have controls located on the driver side door.
Select each mirror by turning the knob clockwise for the passenger side mirror or counterclockwise for the driver side mirror. Adjust the mirror angle by moving the knob in the desired direction.
Keep the selector switch in the center position when not adjusting either outside mirror.
Vehicles with towing mirrors can be adjusted manually for a clear view of the objects behind you.
Manually fold the mirrors inward to prevent damage when going through an automatic car wash. To fold, pull the mirror toward the vehicle. Push the mirror outward, to return it to the original position.
Interior Mirror
Hold the inside rearview mirror in the center to move it for a clearer view behind the vehicle. Adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the headlamps behind. Push the tab, located at the base of the mirror, forward for daytime use and pull it for nighttime use.
See Manual Rearview Mirror on page 217.
Black plate (10,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-10 In Brief

Steering Wheel Adjustment

For vehicles with a tilt steering wheel, the lever is located on the left side of the steering column.
To adjust the steering wheel:
1. Pull the lever to move the steering wheel up or down into a comfortable position.
2. Release the lever to lock the steering wheel in place.
See Steering Wheel Adjustment on page 52.

Interior Lighting

Dome Lamp
The dome lamps come on when any door is opened. They turn off after all the doors are closed.
The instrument panel brightness knob extends when
To manually turn on the dome lamps, press
clockwise to the farthest position. In this position, the dome lamps remain on whether a door is opened or closed.
D is pressed.
D then turn the knob
E DOME OFF: This button is
located above the instrument panel brightness knob.
Press the button in and the dome lamps remain off when a door is opened. Press the button again so that the dome lamps come on when a door is opened.
Reading Lamps
For vehicles with reading lamps, press the button located next to each lamp to turn it on or off.
The vehicle may also have reading lamps in other locations. The lamps cannot be adjusted.
For more information on interior lighting, see:
.
Instrument Panel Illumination Control on page 65.
.
Entry/Exit Lighting on page 66.
Black plate (11,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-11

Exterior Lighting

The exterior lamps control is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.
O : Briefly turn the control to this
position to turn the automatic headlamps and Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) off or back on.
For vehicles first sold in Canada, the off position only works for vehicles that are shifted into the P (Park) position.
AUTO: Automatically turns on the headlamps, parking lamps, taillamps, instrument panel lights, and license plate lamps.
; : Turns on the parking lamps,
taillamps, instrument panel lights, and license plate lamps.
2 : Turns on the headlamps,
parking lamps, taillamps, instrument panel lights, and license plate lamps.
For more information, see:
.
Exterior Lamp Controls on page 61.
.
Exterior Lamps Off Reminder on page 62.
.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) on page 63.
.
Automatic Headlamp System on page 63.
Black plate (12,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-12 In Brief

Windshield Wiper/Washer

The lever is located on the left side of the steering column.
8 : Use for a single wiping cycle. 6 : Use to adjust the delay time
between wipes. Turn the band up or down for more frequent wipes or less frequent wipes.
d : Slow wipes. a : Fast wipes. 9 : Use to turn the wipers off. L : Push the paddle on top of the
multifunction lever to spray washer fluid on the windshield.
See Windshield Wiper/Washer on page 54.

Climate Controls

The vehicle's heating, cooling, and ventilation can be controlled with these systems.
Vehicles Without Air Conditioning
A. Fan Control
B. Temperature Control
C. Air Delivery Mode
Control
Black plate (13,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
Vehicles With Air Conditioning
A. Fan Control
B. Temperature Control
C. Air Delivery Mode Control
D. Rear Window Defogger
See Climate Control Systems on
page 81. See Rear Heating System on page 84 (If Equipped) or Rear Climate Control System on page 85
(If Equipped).

Transmission

Range Selection Mode
The vehicle may have a Range Selection Mode. The Range Selection Mode helps control the
In Brief 1-13
vehicle's transmission and vehicle speed while driving down hill or towing a trailer by letting you select a desired range of gears.
To use this feature, do the following:
1. Move the shift lever to M (Manual Mode).
2. Press the plus/minus buttons, located on the steering column shift lever, to select the desired range of gears for current driving conditions.
When M (Manual Mode) is selected a number displays in the DIC next to the M indicating the current gear.
Grade Braking is not available when Range Selection Mode is active. See Tow/Haul Mode on page 932.
While using Range Selection Mode, Cruise Control and the Tow/Haul Mode can be used.
Black plate (14,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-14 In Brief

Vehicle Features

Radio(s)

O : Press to turn the system
on and off. Turn to increase or decrease the volume.
Radio with CD (MP3)
BAND: Press to choose between
FM1, FM2, AM, and XM.
f : Select radio stations. © ¨ : Seek or scan stations.
4 : Press to switch the display
between the radio station frequency and the time. While the ignition is off, press this button to display the time. Press to display additional text information related to the current FM-RDS station or MP3 song. A choice of additional information such as: Channel, Song, Artist, and CAT (category) can display. Continue pressing to highlight the desired tab, or press the softkey located under any one of the tabs and the information about that tab displays.
For more information about these and other radio features, see Infotainment on page 71.
Storing a Favorite Station
Depending on which radio the vehicle has, radio stations are stored as either favorites or presets.
Black plate (15,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-15
For vehicles with a FAV button, a maximum of 36 stations can be stored as favorites using the six softkeys located below the radio station frequency tabs and by using the radio FAV button. Press FAV to go through up to six pages of favorites, each having six favorite stations available per page. Each page of favorites can contain any combination of AM and FM stations.
If the radio does not have a FAV button, up to 18 stations (6 FM1, 6 FM2, and 6 AM), can be programmed on the six numbered buttons.
See Operation on page 73.
Setting the Clock
To set the time and date for the Radio with CD (MP3):
1. Press
H and the HR, MIN, MM,
DD, YYYY (hour, minute, month, day, and year) displays.
2. Press the softkey located below any one of the tabs that you want to change.
3. Increase or decrease the time or date, depending on the radio, by
pressing the
© SEEK ¨ arrows,
s / \ REV/FWD buttons or
by turning counterclockwise.
For detailed instructions on setting the clock for your specific audio system, see Clock on page 56.
f clockwise or

Satellite Radio

XM is a satellite radio service that is based in the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces. XM satellite radio has a wide variety of programming and commercial-free music, coast to coast, and in digital-quality sound.
A fee is required to receive the XM service.
For more information, refer to:
.
www.xmradio.com or call 1-800-929-2100 (U.S.)
.
www.xmradio.ca or call 1-877-438-9677 (Canada)
See Satellite Radio on page 79.

Portable Audio Devices

This vehicle may have an auxiliary input located on the radio faceplate and a USB port located on the instrument panel. External devices such as an iPod MP3 player, CD changer, or USB storage device can be connected to the auxiliary port using a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) input cable or the USB port depending on the audio system.
See "Using the Auxiliary Input Jack" and "Using the USB Port" in Auxiliary Devices on page 718.
®
, laptop computer,
Black plate (16,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-16 In Brief
Bluetooth
For vehicles with a Bluetooth system, it allows users with a Bluetoothenabled cell phone to make and receive hands-free calls using the vehicles audio system and controls.
The Bluetoothenabled cell phone must be paired with the Bluetooth system before it can be used in the vehicle. Not all phones will support all functions. For more information, visit www.gm.com/bluetooth.
For more information, see Bluetooth on page 723.
®

Steering Wheel Controls

For vehicles with audio steering wheel controls, some audio controls can be adjusted at the steering wheel.
w /c x : Press to change
favorite radio stations, select tracks on a CD, or to navigate tracks or folders on an iPod
®
or USB device.
b g : Press to silence the vehicle
speakers only. Press again to turn the sound on. Press and hold longer than two seconds to interact with
®
OnStar if equipped.
+
decrease volume.
or Bluetooth systems,
e e : Press to increase or
c x : Press to reject an
incoming call, or to end a call.
SRCE: Press to switch between the radio and CD, and for equipped vehicles, the front auxiliary.
¨ : Press to seek the next radio
station, the next track while sourced to the CD, or to select tracks and folders on an iPod
For more information, see Steering Wheel Controls on page 52.
®
or USB device.
Black plate (17,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-17

Cruise Control

For vehicles with cruise control, the buttons are located on the left side of the steering wheel.
J : Turns the system on or off.
+RES: Press briefly to make the vehicle resume to a previously set speed, or press and hold to accelerate.
SET: Press to set the speed and activate cruise control or press and hold to decelerate.
[ : Press to disengage cruise
control without erasing the set speed from memory.
For more information, see Cruise Control on page 937.

Power Outlets

The accessory power outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone or an MP3 player.
The vehicle may have two accessory power outlets located on the instrument panel.
Remove the cover to access and replace when not in use.
See Power Outlets on page 58.

Performance and Maintenance

StabiliTrak®System

The vehicle may have a traction control system that limits wheel spin and the StabiliTrak system that assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. Both systems turn on automatically every time the vehicle is started.
.
To turn off both traction control and StabiliTrak, press and
hold
d until d illuminates and
the appropriate DIC message displays. See Ride Control System Messages on page 536.
.
Press and release the button again to turn on both systems.
For more information, see
StabiliTrak
®
System on page 935.
Black plate (18,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-18 In Brief

Tire Pressure Monitor

This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
The TPMS warning light alerts you to a significant loss in pressure of one of the vehicle's tires. If the warning light comes on, stop as soon as possible and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 912. The warning light will remain on until the tire pressure is corrected.
During cooler conditions, the low tire pressure warning light may appear when the vehicle is first started and then turn off. This may be an early indicator that the tire pressures are getting low and the tires need to be inflated to the proper pressure.
The TPMS does not replace normal monthly tire maintenance. It is the drivers responsibility to maintain correct tire pressures.
See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 1059.

Engine Oil Life System

The engine oil life system calculates engine oil life based on vehicle use and displays a DIC message when it is necessary to change the engine oil and filter. The oil life system should be reset to 100% only following an oil change.
Resetting the Oil Life System
1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN, with the engine off.
2. Fully press and release the accelerator pedal three times within five seconds.
3. Turn the key to LOCK/OFF.
See Engine Oil Life System on page 1014.

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)

Vehicles that have a FlexFuel badge and a yellow fuel cap can use either unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85). See Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on page 942. For all other vehicles, use only the unleaded gasoline described under Recommended Fuel on page 940.
Black plate (19,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011

Driving for Better Fuel Economy

Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here are some driving tips to get the best fuel economy possible.
.
Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.
.
Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.
.
Avoid idling the engine for long periods of time.
.
When road and weather conditions are appropriate, use cruise control.
.
Always follow posted speed limits or drive more slowly when conditions require.
.
Keep vehicle tires properly inflated.
.
Combine several trips into a single trip.
.
Replace the vehicle's tires with the same TPC Spec number molded into the tire's sidewall near the size.
.
Follow recommended scheduled maintenance.

Roadside Assistance Program

U.S.: 1-800-GMC-8782 (1800462-8782)
TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
As the owner of a new GMC, you are automatically enrolled in the Roadside Assistance program.
See Roadside Assistance Program on page 135 for more information.
In Brief 1-19
Roadside Assistance and OnStar
If you have an active OnStar subscription, press the
and the current GPS location will be sent to an OnStar advisor who will assess your problem, contact Roadside Assistance, and relay your exact location to get the help you need.
Online Owner Center
The Online Owner Center is a complimentary service that includes online service reminders, vehicle maintenance tips, online owner manual, special privileges, and more.
Sign up today at: www.gmcownercenter.com (U.S.) or www.gm.ca (Canada).
Q button
Black plate (20,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-20 In Brief
OnStar
For vehicles with an active OnStar subscription, OnStar uses several innovative technologies and live Advisors to provide a wide range of safety, security, navigation, diagnostics, and calling services.
Automatic Crash Response
In a crash, builtin sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor who is immediately connected to the vehicle to see if you need help.
®
How OnStar Service Works
Q : Push this blue button to
connect to a specially trained OnStar Advisor to verify your account information and to answer questions.
] : Push this red emergency
button to get priority help from specially trained OnStar Emergency Advisors.
X : Push this button for handsfree,
voiceactivated calling and to give voice commands for HandsFree Calling and TurnbyTurn Navigation.
Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Crisis Assist, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock, Roadside Assistance, TurnbyTurn Navigation, and HandsFree Calling are available on most vehicles. Not all OnStar services are available on all vehicles. For more information, see the OnStar Owner's Guide; visit www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada); contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (18884667827) or TTY 18772482080; or push
the
Q button to speak with an
OnStar Advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For a full description of OnStar services and system limitations, see the OnStar Owner's Guide in the glove box.
OnStar service is subject to the OnStar Terms and Conditions included in the OnStar Glove Box Kit.
OnStar service requires wireless communication networks and the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite network. Not all OnStar services are available everywhere or on all vehicles at all times.
OnStar service cant work unless the vehicle is in a place where OnStar has an agreement with a wireless service provider for service in that area, and the wireless service provider has coverage, network capacity, reception, and technology compatible with OnStar's service. Service involving location information about the vehicle cant work unless GPS signals are available, unobstructed, and compatible with the OnStar
Black plate (21,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-21
hardware. The vehicle has to have a working electrical system and adequate battery power for the OnStar equipment to operate. OnStar service may not work if the OnStar equipment isnt properly installed or you havent maintained it and the vehicle is in good working order and in compliance with all government regulations. If you try to add, connect, or modify any equipment or software in the vehicle, OnStar service may not work. Other problems OnStar cant control may prevent service to you, such as hills, tall buildings, tunnels, weather, electrical system design and architecture of the vehicle, damage to important parts of the vehicle in a crash, or wireless phone network congestion or jamming.
See Radio Frequency Statement on page 1316 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.
OnStar Steering Wheel Controls
This vehicle may have a
b g / c x Talk/Mute button
that can be used to interact with OnStar Hands-Free calling. See
Steering Wheel Controls on page 52 for more information.
On some vehicles, the
c x button can be used to
dial numbers into voice mail systems, or to dial phone extensions. See the OnStar Owner's Guide for more information.
Your Responsibility
Increase the volume of the radio if the OnStar Advisor cannot be heard.
If the light next to the OnStar buttons is red, the system may not be functioning properly. Push
the
Q button and request a vehicle
diagnostic. If the light appears clear (no light appears), your OnStar subscription has expired and all services have been deactivated.
Push the the OnStar equipment is active.
Q button to confirm that
Black plate (22,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
1-22 In Brief
2 NOTES
Black plate (1,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
Keys, Doors and Windows 2-1

Keys, Doors and Windows

Keys and Locks
Keys . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 2-2
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Cargo Door Relocking . . . . . . . . 2-8
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Lockout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Doors
Side Door
(60/40 Swing-Out) . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Sliding Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Rear Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Vehicle Security
Vehicle Security . . . . . . . . ...... 2-13
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Immobilizer Operation . . . . . . . 2-13
Exterior Mirrors
Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Manual Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2-15
Trailer-Tow Mirrors . . . . . . . .. . . 2-16
Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . ..... 2-16
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . ... . . . . 2-16
Interior Mirrors
Manual Rearview Mirror . . . . . . 2-17
Windows
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... 2-17
Manual Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Swing-Out Windows . . . . . . . . . 2-19
Enhanced Technology
Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... 2-19
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . 2-20
Black plate (2,1)
GMC Savana Owner Manual - 2011
2-2 Keys, Doors and Windows

Keys and Locks

Keys

WARNING
{
Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. Children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keys in the ignition and children could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
The key is used for the ignition and all door locks.
The key has a bar-coded key tag that the dealer or qualified locksmith can use to make new keys. Store this information in a safe place, not in the vehicle.
See your dealer if a replacement key or additional key is needed.
Notice: If the keys get locked in the vehicle, it may have to be damaged to get them out. Always carry a spare key.
If you are locked out of the vehicle, call the Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 135.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

See Radio Frequency Statement on page 1316 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.
If there is a decrease in the RKE operating range:
.
Check the distance. The transmitter may be too far from the vehicle.
.
Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal.
Loading...
+ 380 hidden pages