GMC Sierra 2002 User Manual

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2002 GMC Sierra

Owner’s Manual

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GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, GMC, the GMC Truck Emblem and the name SIERRA are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation.

This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for GMC whenever it appears in this manual.

Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.

We support voluntary technician certification.

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual:

Aux propriétaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous

procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en français chez votre concessionaire ou au:

Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207

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How to Use this Manual

Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly.

Safety Warnings and Symbols

You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

CAUTION:

These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.

In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,” “Don’t do this” or “Don’t let this happen.”

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Vehicle Damage Warnings

Also, in this book you will find these notices:

NOTICE:

These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage.

When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words.

You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

Vehicle Symbols

Your vehicle may be equipped with components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols, used on your vehicle, are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a specific component, control, message, gage or indicator.

If you need help figuring out a specific name of a component, gage or indicator reference the following topics in the Index:

“Engine Compartment Overview”

“Instrument Panel”

“Comfort Controls”

“Audio Systems”

Also see “Warning Lights and Gages” in the Index.

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These are some examples of vehicle symbols you may find on your vehicle:

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Model Reference

This manual covers these models:

Regular Cab Pickup

Crew Cab

Extended Cab Pickup

Chassis Cab

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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.

-2 Seats and Seat Controls

-10 Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone

-15 Here Are Questions Many People Ask About

Safety Belts

-16 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

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-16 Driver Position

-23 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

-24 Right Front Passenger Position

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-24 Air Bag System

-35 Center Passenger Position

-- and the Answers

-36 Rear Seat Passengers

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-40 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children

and Small Adults

1-42 Children

-46 Restraint Systems for Children

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-70 Older Children

-73 Safety Belt Extender

-73 Checking Your Restraint Systems

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-73 Replacing Restraint System Parts

After a Crash

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Seats and Seat Controls

This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and fold them up and down. It also tells you about reclining front seatbacks and head restraints.

Manual Front Seat

CAUTION:

You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.

If your vehicle has a manual bucket or a split bench seat, you can adjust it with this lever located at the front of the seat.

Lift the lever to unlock the seat. Using your body, slide the seat to where you want it, and release the lever. Try to move the seat with your body to make sure the seat is locked into place.

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Manual Lumbar Control (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has a lumbar adjustment, the knob is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion.

T o increase or decrease support, turn the knob toward the front or rear of the vehicle. Operating effort can be reduced if you lean forward slightly while turning the knob.

Power Seat(s) (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has a power seat, you can adjust it with these controls located on the outboard sides of the seats.

Raise or lower the front of the seat cushion by raising or lowering the forward edge of the horizontal control.

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Move the seat forward or rearward by moving the whole horizontal control forward or rearward.

Raise or lower the rear of the seat cushion by raising or lowering the rear edge of the horizontal control.

Moving the whole horizontal control up or down raises or lowers the entire seat cushion.

If your vehicle has power reclining seats, you can use the vertical control to adjust the angle of the seatback. Move the reclining front seatback rearward or forward by moving the control toward the rear or the front of the vehicle. See “Reclining Seatbacks” in the Index for further information.

Power Lumbar Control (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has this feature, the four control is located on the outboard side of the seat.

T o increase or decrease support, press and hold the front or rear of the control. Let go of the control when the lower seatback reaches the desired level of support.

You can also reshape the side wing area of the lower seatback for more lateral support. T o increase or decrease support, press and hold the top or bottom of the control. Let go of the control when the lower seatback reaches the desired level of support.

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Memory Seat (If Equipped)

Heated Front Seats (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has this feature, the buttons used to program and recall the driver’s seat and recliner position are located on the driver’s door trim panel.

It does not store the lumbar or back support positions. T o program the memory seat, do the following:

1. Adjust the driver’s seat to the desired position.

2. Then press the SET button and, within five seconds, press one of the two numbered buttons on the memory control.

T o recall your setting, put the vehicle in PARK (P) and press the number you chose.

T o program the seat position for a second driver, follow the preceding steps, but press the other number on the memory control.

If your vehicle has this feature, the button used to control the driver’s heated seat is located on the driver’s door panel. The button used to control the passenger’s heated seat is located on the passenger’s door panel.

T o activate the heated seats, press the button once for the HI heat setting. Press the button again for the LO heat setting. T o turn off the heated seats, press the button a third time. An indicator light will illuminate for each heat setting anytime the heated seats are operating.

The ignition must be in RUN for this feature to operate. The heated front seats will be canceled after the ignition

is turned to OFF. If you still want to use the heated front seat feature after you restart your vehicle, you will need to press the heated seat button again.

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Reclining Seatbacks

T o adjust the front seatback, lift the manual lever located on the outboard side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Lift the lever again without pushing on the seatback and the seatback will go to an upright position.

If your vehicle has power seats with a power recliner, see “Power Seats” in the Index for further information on how to operate the reclining seatback feature.

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But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

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CAUTION:

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this.

The shoulder belt can’t do its job. In a crash, you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries.

The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries.

For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

Head Restraints

Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your head. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

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On some models, the head restraints tilt forward and rearward also.

The rear seat head restraints in your vehicle may be adjustable. They work the same as the front seat head restraints, except they do not tilt forward or rearward.

Seatback Latches

CAUTION:

If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked.

The seatbacks fold forward to let you access the rear of the cab.

T o fold a front seatback forward, lift the lever at the base of the seat to release the seatback.

The lever is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion.

T o return the seatback to the upright position, push the seatback rearward until it latches. After returning the seatback to its upright position, push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.

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Rear Seat (Extended Cab)

Folding the Rear Seat

The extended cab’s rear seat can be folded up to provide more cargo space. To fold the seat do the following:

1. Pull forward on the release strap located under the rear seat cushion.

2. Fold the seat cushion upward until it latches with the seatback.

3. Push and pull on the seat to make sure the seat is secure.

The extended cab’s rear seat can also be folded open for more seating space. T o use the seat do the following:

1. Push rearward on the seat cushion while pulling up on the release strap under the seat cushion. Pull the seat cushion downward until it latches.

2. After pulling the seat cushion down, pull up on it to make sure it is locked.

Rear Seat (Crew Cab)

The second row rear seat has a 60/40 split seat. Either side of the rear seat may be folded down to give you more cargo space.

Before folding the rear seat on the driver’s side, insert the two buckles into the retainer in the seatback. That way , the buckles will be out of the way when the seat is folded and will be available for passengers to use when the seat is returned to the passenger position. Also, make sure that nothing is under or in front of the seat and that the head restraints are completely lowered.

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T o fold the rear seat, do the following:

1. Pull up on the strap loop at the rear of the seat cushion. Then, pull the seat cushion up and fold it forward.

2. After folding the seat cushion fully forward, pull the seatback forward and fold the seatback down until it is flat. If the seatback cannot fold flat because it interferes with the cushion, try moving the front seat forward and/or bringing the front seat more upright. The lever at the base of the seat must be turned rearward to release the seatback.

T o return the seat to the passenger position do the following:

1. Lift the seatback up and push it rearward all the way.

2. Lower the seat cushion until it latches into position.

3. Pull forward on the seatback and up on the seat cushion to make sure the seat is securely in place.

Check to see that the buckles on the driver’s side seatback are accessible to the outboard and center occupant and are not under the seat cushions.

Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone

This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts.

And it explains the air bag system.

CAUTION:

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

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CAUTION:

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.

Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.

You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.

A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away . Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed.

After more than 30 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

Why Safety Belts Work

When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

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T ake the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.

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Put someone on it.

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Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...

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or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts!

With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.

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Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts

Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an

accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

-- and the Answers

A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety

belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.

Q: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to

wear safety belts?

A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in

most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

-- not instead of them. Every air bag

Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver , but if you’re in an

accident and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers.

Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h).

Safety belts are for everyone.

-- even one that isn’t your fault -- you

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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

Adults

This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know

about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.

First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has.

We’ll start with the driver position.

Driver Position

This part describes the driver’s restraint system.

Lap-Shoulder Belt

The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly.

1. Close and lock the door.

2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight. T o see how , see “Seats” in the Index.

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted.

The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

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4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section.

Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5. T o make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is over an armrest.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

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T o unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way.

Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way . If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

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The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

CAUTION:

Right Front Passenger Position

T o learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt properly, see “Driver Position” earlier in this section.

The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt If you ever pull the shoulder portion of the belt out all the way, you will engage the child restraint locking feature. If this happens, just let the belt go back all the way and start again.

-- except for one thing.

Air Bag System

This part explains the air bag system. Your vehicle has air bags

and another air bag for the right front passenger. Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of

injury from the force of an inflating air bag. But these air bags must inflate very quickly to do their job and comply with federal regulations.

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-- one air bag for the driver

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags are designed to work with safety belts, but don’t replace them. Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear or low

-speed frontal crashes, or in many side

crashes. And, for some unrestrained occupants, air bags may provide less protection in frontal crashes than more forceful air bags have provided in the past. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly not there’s an air bag for that person.

-- even if you

-- whether or

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CAUTION:

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children.”

-shoulder belts offer

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There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the air bag symbol.

The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.

How the Air Bag System Works

Where are the air bags?

The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

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The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.

CAUTION:

If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.

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When should an air bag inflate?

An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts because inflation would not help the occupant.

In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or near

-frontal impacts.

The air bag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain. As always, wear your safety belt. See “Off-Road Driving” in the Index for more tips on off

-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate

-road usage.

-road driving.

What makes an air bag inflate?

In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.

How does an air bag restrain?

In moderate to severe frontal or near even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and many side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward those air bags. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near

-frontal collisions.

-frontal collisions,

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What will you see after an air bag inflates?

After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag

-- will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag

that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

-- the

CAUTION:

When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag.

Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the system commands air bag inflation and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. The module also records speed, engine rpm, brake and throttle data.

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Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

NOTICE:

If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.

Air Bag Off Switch (Regular Cab and Extended Cab Models)

If your vehicle is a regular cab model or an extended cab model, it has a switch on the instrument panel that you can use to turn off the right front passenger’s air bag.

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This switch should only be turned to AIR BAG OFF if the person in the right front passenger’s position is a member of a passenger risk group identified by the national government as follows:

Infant. An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the front seat because:

my vehicle has no rear seat;

my vehicle has a rear seat too small to accommodate a rear

-facing infant seat; or

the infant has a medical condition which, according to the infant’s physician, makes it necessary for the infant to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child’s condition.

Child age 1 to 12. A child age 1 to 12 must ride in the front seat because:

my vehicle has no rear seat;

although children ages 1 to 12 ride in the rear seat(s) whenever possible, children ages 1 to 12 sometimes must ride in the front because no space is available in the rear seat(s) of my vehicle; or

the child has a medical condition which, according to the child’s physician, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child’s condition.

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Medical Condition. A passenger has a medical

condition which, according to his or her physician:

causes the passenger air bag to pose a special risk for the passenger; and

makes the potential harm from the passenger air bag in a crash greater than the potential harm from turning off the air bag and allowing the passenger, even if belted, to hit the dashboard or windshield in a crash.

CAUTION:

If the right front passenger’s air bag is turned off for a person who isn’t in a risk group identified by the national government, that person won’t have the extra protection of an air bag. In a crash, the air bag wouldn’t be able to inflate and help protect the person sitting there. Don’t turn off the passenger’s air bag unless the person sitting there is in a risk group.

T o turn off the right front passenger’s air bag, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to AIR BAG OFF.

The AIR BAG OFF light will come on to let you know that the right front passenger’s air bag is off. The right front passenger’s air bag will remain off until you turn it back on again, and the AIR BAG OFF light will stay on to remind you that the air bag is off.

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CAUTION:

If the air bag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the air bag, it means that something may be wrong with the air bag system. The right front passenger’s air bag could inflate even though the switch is off.

If your vehicle is a regular cab pickup and this ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the national government has identified as a member of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right front passenger’s position (for example, don’t secure a rear vehicle) until you have your vehicle serviced.

If your vehicle is an extended cab pickup and this ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the national government has identified as a member of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the right front passenger’s position (for example, don’t secure a rear front passenger’s seat) until you have your vehicle serviced.

-facing child restraint in your

-facing child restraint in the right

T o turn the right front passenger’s air bag on again, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the on position.

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Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. T o purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.

CAUTION:

For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

Q: If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the

front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags from working properly?

A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is

attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle’s basic structure isn’t changed, it’s not likely to keep the air bags from working properly in a crash.

Q: Is there anything I might add to the front of the

vehicle that could keep the air bags from working properly?

A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s

frame, bumper system, front end sheet metal or height, they may keep the air bag system from working properly. Also, the air bag system may not work properly if you relocate any of the air bag sensors. If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step T wo of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See “Customer Satisfaction Procedure” in the Index.

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Q: What if I add a snow plow? Will it keep the air

bags from working properly?

A: We’ve designed our air bag systems to work

properly under a wide range of conditions, including snow plowing with vehicles equipped with the optional Snow Plow Prep Package (RPO VYU). But don’t change or defeat the snow plow’s “tripping mechanism.” If you do, it can damage your snow plow and your vehicle, and it may cause an air bag inflation.

Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt

If your vehicle has front and rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions.

When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.

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T o make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.

Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section.

Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough,

Rear Seat Passengers

It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts.

Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.

Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

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Lap-Shoulder Belt (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

The positions next to the windows have lap belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

-shoulder

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it

will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again.

If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section.

Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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3. T o make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

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The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. The safety belt also locks if you pull the belt very

quickly out of the retractor.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

T o unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults

If your vehicle has a rear seat, your vehicle has shoulder belt comfort guides. This feature will provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide better positions the belt away from the neck and head.

There is one guide for each outside passenger in the rear seat. T o provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on the shoulder belts. Here’s how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt:

1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the interior body.

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2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.

3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The guide must be on top of the belt.

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4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Passenger Positions (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.

T o remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the guides. Slide the guide onto the storage clip.

Children

Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.

Infants and Young Children

Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have the protection provided by the appropriate restraint. Young children should not use the vehicle’s safety belts, unless there is no other choice.

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CAUTION:

People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much

-- until a crash. During a crash a baby will

become so heavy it is not possible to hold it.

CAUTION: (Continued)

For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 become a 240 arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint.

-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly

-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s

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CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap outstanding protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide.

-shoulder belts offer

Q: What are the different types of add-on

child restraints?

A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased by the

vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child’s weight, height and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.

For most basic types of child restraints, there are many different models available. When purchasing a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards.

The restraint manufacturer’s instructions that come with the restraint state the weight and height limitations for a particular child restraint. In addition, there are many kinds of restraints available for children with special needs.

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CAUTION:

Newborn infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear

-facing seat settles into the restraint, so the

crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant’s body, the back and shoulders. Infants always should be secured in appropriate infant restraints.

The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child’s hip bones are still so small that the vehicle’s regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that’s unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. Young children always should be secured in appropriate child restraints.

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Restraint Systems for Children

An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle.

A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.

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A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T

-shaped or shelf-like shields.

A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high

-back booster seats have a five-point harness. A

booster seat can also help a child to see out the window.

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Q: How do child restraints work?

A: A child restraint system is any device designed for

use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A built permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add child restraint system is a portable one, which is purchased by the vehicle’s owner.

For many years, add the adult belt system in the vehicle. T o help reduce the chance of injury, the child also has to be secured within the restraint. The vehicle’s belt system secures the add vehicle, and the add system holds the child in place within the restraint.

One system, the three come down over each of the infant’s shoulders and buckle together at the crotch. The five harness system has two shoulder straps, two hip straps and a crotch strap. A shield may take the place of hip straps.

-in child restraint system is a

-on

-on child restraints have used

-on child restraint in the

-on child restraint’s harness

-point harness, has straps that

-point

A T

-shaped shield has shoulder straps that are

attached to a flat pad which rests low against the child’s body. A shelf straps that are attached to a wide, shelf that swings up or to the side.

When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards.

Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. When securing an add instructions that come with the restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer.

- or armrest-type shield has

-like shield

-on child restraint, refer to the

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Where to Put the Restraint (Regular Cab Pickup)

The child restraint must be secured properly in the right front passenger seat. If you want to secure a rear child restraint in the right front passenger’s seat, turn off the passenger’s air bag. See “Air Bag Off Switch” and “Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position” in the Index for more on this, including important safety information.

-facing

CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear very close to the inflating air bag. Be sure to turn off the air bag before using a rear restraint in the right front seat position.

Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

-facing child restraint would be

-facing child

Where to Put the Restraint (Extended Cab Pickup)

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. General Motors, therefore, recommends that child restraints be secured in the rear seat, including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward booster seat. There is limited space in the rear seating area of an extended cab model. If you want to secure a child restraint in a rear seating position of an extended cab model, especially in the rear center position, be sure to study the instructions that came with your child restraint to see if there is enough room to secure your seat properly.

If a forward vehicle’s right front seat, the seat should be moved back as far as possible. However, it is better to secure the restraint in a rear seat.

If you want to secure a rear right front passenger’s seat, turn off the passenger’s air bag. See “Air Bag Off Switch” and “Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position” in the Index for more on this, including important safety information.

-facing child seat and an older child riding in a

-facing child seat must be secured in the

-facing child restraint in the

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CAUTION:

Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly.

Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle

-facing child restraint would be

-facing child

-- even when no child is in it.

Where to Put the Restraint (Crew Cab Pickup)

If a forward vehicle’s right front seat, the seat should be moved as far back as possible. However, it is better to secure the restraint in a rear seat. Never put a rear restraint in the right front passenger seat. Here’s why:

-facing child seat and an older child riding in a

-facing child seat must be secured in the

-facing child

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CAUTION:

A child riding in a rear -facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear

-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, but before you do, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.

Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly.

Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle

-facing child restraint would be

-- even when no child is in it.

Top Strap

Some child restraints have a top strap, or “top tether.” It can help restrain the child restraint during a collision. For it to work, a top strap must be properly anchored to the vehicle. Some top strap designed for use with or without the top strap being anchored. Others require the top strap always to be anchored. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint. If yours requires that the top strap be anchored, don’t use the restraint unless it is anchored properly.

If the child restraint does not have a top strap, one can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints. Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a kit is available.

-equipped child restraints are

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In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. In the United States, some child restraints also have a top strap. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored.

Anchor the top strap to one of the following anchor points. Be sure to use an anchor point located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. Raise the head restraint and route the top strap under it.

Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions say.

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Right Front Passenger Position Top Strap Anchor (All Models)

You’ll find the top strap anchor for the right front passenger seat behind the seat, near the floor.

If your vehicle is a regular cab model, there is also a top strap anchor for the right front passenger position located on the back panel of your vehicle, behind the right front passenger seat. In order to get to the anchor, you’ll have to remove the trim plug covering it.

Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions say.

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Rear Seat Top Strap Anchors (Extended Cab Models)

If your vehicle is an extended cab model, you’ll find the top strap anchors for the rear seating positions near the top of the seatback. In addition to the top strap anchors, each seating position has a fabric loop at the top of the seatback that you’ll use to route a top strap through.

When using a child restraint with a top strap in either rear outboard position, raise the head restraint and route the top strap through the fabric loop on the seatback. Then, attach the top strap to the anchor point at the center rear seating position.

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When using a child restraint with a top strap in the center rear position, route the top strap through the fabric loop on the seatback. Then, raise the head restraint and attach the top strap to the anchor point located at the closest outboard position.

Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restrain itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions say.

Rear Seat Top Strap Anchors (Crew Cab Models)

If your vehicle is a Crew Cab model, you’ll find top strap anchors for the rear seating positions located on the back panel of your vehicle, behind the rear seat.

In order to get to the brackets, you’ll have to remove the trim plugs covering them.

There are also anchorage points at the rear base of the front passenger’s seat.

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Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) (If Equipped)

Your vehicle may have the LATCH system. If it does, you’ll find anchors (A) in the seat, where the seatback meets the seat cushion. For front passenger seat positions, there is an anchor behind and to the bottom of the seat to secure the top strap. For rear center seat positions, there is an anchor near the driver’s side rear seat head restraint.

T o assist you in locating the lower anchors for this child restraint system, each seating position with the LATCH system will have a visible metal anchor point in the seat where the seatback meets the seat cushion.

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In order to use the system, you need either a forward points (B) at its base and a top tether anchor (C), or a rear-facing child restraint that has attaching points (B), as shown here.

-facing child restraint that has attaching

With this system, use the LATCH system instead of the vehicle’s safety belts to secure a child restraint.

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CAUTION:

If a LATCH-type child restraint isn’t attached to its anchorage points, the restraint won’t be able to protect a child sitting there. In a crash, the child could be seriously injured or killed. Make sure that a LATCH properly installed using the anchorage points, or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the restraint. See “Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)” or “Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position” in the Index for information on how to secure a child restraint in your vehicle using the vehicle’s safety belts.

-type child restraint is

Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System

1. Find the anchors for the seating position you want to use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the back of the seat cushion.

2. Put the child restraint on the seat.

3. Attach the anchor points on the child restraint to the anchors in the vehicle. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

4. If the child restraint is forward strap to the top strap anchor. See “Top Strap” in the Index. Tighten the top strap according to the child restraint instructions.

5. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.

T o remove the child restraint, simply unhook the top strap from the top tether anchor and then disconnect the anchor points.

-facing, attach the top

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

There is limited space in the rear seating area of an extended cab model. If you want to secure a child restraint in a rear outside seating position, be sure to study the instructions that came with your child restraint to see if there is enough room to secure your seat properly.

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say.

1. Put the restraint on the seat.

2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

1-60

4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.

Page 68

5. T o tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.

T o remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

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Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position

Don’t use child restraints in this position. The restraints won’t work properly.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

If you have an extended cab or a Crew Cab pickup, you can secure a child restraint in the center rear seat position.

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There is limited space in the rear seating area of an extended cab model. If you want to secure a child restraint in a rear seating position of an extended cab model, especially in the rear center position, be sure to study the instructions that came with your child restraint to see if there is enough room to secure your seat properly.

You’ll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say . See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH system, see “Lower Anchorages and T op Tethers for Children (LATCH)” in the Index.

1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat.

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3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5. T o tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.

T o remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

-facing child restraint, you may find it

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Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH system, see “Lower Anchorages and T op Tethers for Children (LATCH)” in the Index.

Crew Cab Models: Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

-facing child

CAUTION:

-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a forward

-facing child restraint in the right front seat.

-facing child restraint would be

Regular Cab and Extended Cab Models: Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. There’s a switch on the instrument panel that you can use to turn off the right front passenger’s air bag when you want to secure a rear

-facing child restraint at the right front passenger’s

position. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index for more on this, including important safety information.

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CAUTION:

Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a forward

-facing child restraint is suitable for your

-facing child restraint in the right front seat.

-facing child restraint would be

-facing child

1-66

-facing child restraint in the right front

rear passenger’s seat) until you have your vehicle serviced. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index.

-facing child restraint in your

Page 74

1. Your vehicle has a right front passenger’s air bag. If your vehicle is a regular cab or an extended cab and you are using a rear make sure the air bag is turned off. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index. If your child restraint is forward it will go before securing it in this seat. See “Seats” in the Index.

2. Put the restraint on the seat.

3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

-facing, always move the seat as far back as

-facing child restraint in this seat,

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.

1-68

6. T o tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.

-facing

Page 76

If you were using a rear regular cab pickup or an extended cab pickup, turn on the right front passenger’s air bag when you remove the

-facing child restraint from the vehicle unless the

rear person who will be sitting there is a member of a passenger air bag risk group. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index.

-facing child restraint in a

CAUTION:

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Older Children

Older children who have outgrown booster seats should wear the vehicle’s safety belts.

If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

-shoulder belt and

Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts?

A: If possible, an older child should wear a

lap

-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a

shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the thighs. It should never be worn over the abdomen, which could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in a crash.

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat.

In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike other people who are buckled up, or can be thrown out of the vehicle. Older children need to use safety belts properly.

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CAUTION:

Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The

belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.

Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt,

but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but

be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in a seat that has a lap belt, if your vehicle has one.

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CAUTION:

Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a

lap

-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind

the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.

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Safety Belt Extender

If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it.

But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. T o wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt.

Checking Your Restraint Systems

Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired.

T orn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.

Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash

If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts or LATCH system parts?

After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new parts.

If the LATCH system was being used during a more severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts.

If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system wasn’t being used at the time of the collision.

If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

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✍

NOTES

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Section 2 Features and Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly

-- and what to do if you have a problem.

-2 Windows

-5 Keys

-7 Door Locks

2 2

-12 Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)

-15 Rear Doors

-16 T ailgate

-17 Theft

-19 Content Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped)

-20 Passlock

2 2-21 New Vehicle “Break-In”

-21 Ignition Positions

-24 Starting Your Engine

-25 Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

-27 Automatic Transmission Operation

-32 Manual Transmission Operation

2 2

-37 Parking Brake

-38 Shifting Into PARK (P)

2 2-41 Shifting Out of PARK (P)

(Automatic Transmission Only) (Automatic Transmission Only)

-41 Parking Your Vehicle

2-42 Parking Over Things That Burn

-42 Engine Exhaust

-43 Running Your Engine While You’re Parked

-44 Manual Selectable Ride (If Equipped)

-45 Locking Rear Axle (If Equipped)

-45 Four-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)

-56 QUADRASTEER

2 2

-59 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

-66 Exterior Lamps

-71 Interior Lamps

-73 Mirrors

-90 OnStar

-94 The Instrument Panel - Your

2 2-96 Instrument Panel Cluster

-98 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

2 2

-115 Message Center

(Manual Transmission Models Only)

(Automatic Transmission)

(4WS) (If Equipped)

System (If Equipped)

Information System

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Windows

CAUTION:

Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.

Manual Windows

Turn the hand crank on each door to manually raise or lower the manual windows.

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Power Windows (If Equipped)

The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger window as well. Your power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to ACCESSORY or RUN or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.

Press the top or bottom of the switch with the power window symbol on it to lower or raise the window.

If your vehicle is equipped with power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors in the front and rear.

Express

The driver’s window also has an express down feature that allows the window to be lowered without holding the switch. Press and hold the rear of the window switch for one second to activate the express down mode. The express down mode can be canceled at any time by pressing the opposite side of the switch. T o open the window partway , lightly tap the switch until the window is at the desired position.

-Down Window

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Lock-Out Switch

If you have power windows on a Crew Cab driver’s door power window switch has a lockout feature. This feature prevents all windows from operating, except from the driver’s position, when the driver’s door button labeled WINDOW LOCK is engaged. When the button is not engaged, the rear power windows will operate.

, the

Swing-Out Windows (Extended Cab)

T o open a rear swing-out window , flip the latch open and swing the glass out.

The latch will catch when the window is fully open and it will also hold it in the open position.

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Keys

CAUTION:

Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed.

They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.

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Your vehicle has one double

-sided key for the

ignition and all door locks.

If you ever lose your keys, your dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining replacements.

NOTICE:

Your vehicle has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your key inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have an extra key.

2-6

Your vehicle may also have a key that locks and unlocks only the center floor console (if equipped).

If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call the GM Roadside Assistance Center. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index. If your vehicle is equipped with the OnStar system with an active subscription and you lock your keys inside the vehicle, OnStar may be able to send a command to unlock your vehicle. See “OnStar” in the Index for more information.

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Door Locks

CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle won’t open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive.

Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle whenever you leave it.

Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. You can use the keyless entry system (if equipped). You can also use your key.

T o lock the door from the inside, slide the lever rearward. T o unlock the door, slide the lever forward.

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Power Door Locks (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has this power door lock switch, press the raised side of the switch, marked L, on either front door to lock all the doors at once.

If your vehicle has this power door lock switch, press the bottom of the switch on either front door to lock all the doors at once.

Press the recessed side of the switch marked U to unlock all the doors at once.

2-8

Press the top of the switch to unlock all the doors at once.

The power door locks will operate at any time even when the ignition is off.

The power door locks will also automatically lock when the vehicle is out of PARK (P), or for manual transmission, when the vehicle reaches 15 mph (24 km/h). T o unlock the doors, refer to the instructions listed previously. The automatic locking feature can be disabled, if you prefer. See “Programmable Automatic Door Locks” in the following text.

Operating the power locks may interact with the theft

-deterrent system (if equipped). See “Content

-Deterrent” in the Index.

Theft

Page 90

Programmable Automatic Door Locks (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has power door locks, it is equipped with a feature that enables you to program the door locks.

Your vehicle left the factory programmed to automatically lock all doors when the vehicle is out of PARK (P), and all doors unlock when the vehicle is in PARK (P). You can set the automatic door lock feature to unlock the doors you select once the vehicle is in PARK (P).

If your vehicle has a manual transmission it left the factory programmed to lock all doors when the vehicle speed is greater than 15 mph (24km/h) for two seconds, and unlock all doors once the key is removed from the ignition. You can set the automatic door lock feature to unlock the doors you select once the key is removed from the ignition.

The following instructions detail how to program your door locks.

T o enter the program mode you need to do the following:

1. Beginning with the ignition in OFF. Pull back on the turn signal/multifunction lever all the way toward you until flash you perform the next step.

2. Turn your key to RUN and OFF twice. Then, with the key in OFF, release the turn signal/multifunction lever. Once you do this, you will hear the lock mechanism lock and unlock.

3. You are now ready to program the automatic door locks. Select one of the following four programming options and follow the instructions. You will have thirty seconds to complete programming. If you exceed the thirty automatically lock and unlock to indicate you have left the program mode. If this occurs, repeat the procedure beginning with Step 1. You can exit the program mode any time by turning the ignition to RUN (the locks will automatically lock and unlock to indicate you are leaving the program mode.) If the lock/unlock switches are not pressed while in the programming mode, the automatic lock/unlock setting will not be modified.

-to-pass is activated, and hold it while

-second limit, the locks will

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The following is a list of the available programming options:

All doors lock/Only the driver’s door unlocks:

Press the lock side of the power door lock switch on the door panel once and then the unlock side once.

All doors lock/All doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power door lock switch on the door panel once, and then the unlock side twice.

All doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power door lock switch on the door panel once, and then the unlock side three times.

No doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power door lock switch on the door panel twice. This turns off the automatic lock feature.

For more information, see your dealer.

Lockout Prevention

T o protect you from locking your key in the vehicle, this feature stops the power door locks from locking when the key is in the ignition and a door is open.

If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver’s door will unlock.

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Child Security Locks (Crew Cabs) (If Equipped)

With this feature, you can lock the rear side doors so that they cannot be opened from the inside by passengers.

Your vehicle may have one of the two child security lock labels shown. This feature is located on the inside edge of the rear doors.

Move the lever forward to engage the security feature. Move the lever rearward to return the door locks to normal operation.

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Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and unlock your doors from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 100 feet (30 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This device complies with RSS Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

-210 of Industry Canada.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.

At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this:

Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.

Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. T ake a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.

Check to determine if battery replacement or resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions that follow.

If you’re still having trouble, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service.

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Operation

UNLOCK: Pressing this button once will unlock the

driver’s door. The parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will come on. Pressing UNLOCK again within three seconds will cause the remaining doors to unlock. The parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will come on.

LOCK: Pressing this button once will lock all of the doors. Press LOCK again within three seconds and the horn will chirp.

Operating the keyless entry transmitter may interact with the theft Deterrent” in the Index.

-deterrent system. See “Content-Theft

Remote Panic Alarm

When the panic button with the horn symbol on the keyless entry transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to 30 seconds. This can be turned off by pressing the panic button again, waiting for 30 seconds, or starting the vehicle.

Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle

Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have a maximum of four transmitters matched to it.

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Battery Replacement

Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about two years.

You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.

NOTICE:

When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.

T o replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter, do the following:

1. Insert a dime, or similar object, in the slot between the covers of the transmitter housing near the key ring hole. Remove the bottom by twisting the dime.

2. Remove and replace the battery with a three CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up.

3. Align the covers and snap them together.

4. Resynchronize the transmitter.

5. Check the operation of the transmitter.

-volt

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Resynchronization

Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal that has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal from the transmitter.

T o resynchronize your transmitter, stand close to your vehicle and press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter at the same time for seven seconds. The door locks should cycle to confirm synchronization. If the locks do not cycle, see your dealer for service.

Rear Doors

Your vehicle may be equipped with a rear access door(s) that allows easier access to the rear area of the extended cab.

T o open a rear access door from the outside, first open the front door. Then, use the handle located on the front edge of the rear access door to open it.

You must fully close a rear access door before you can close the front door.

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T o open a rear access door from the inside, the front door must be opened first. Then, use the handle located on the inside of the rear access door to open it.

If your vehicle is a Crew Cab, you can open your doors from the inside or outside. Your vehicle may also have a feature which prevents children from opening the rear doors. See “Child Security Locks” in the Index for more information.

Tailgate

You can open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle while pulling the tailgate toward you.

T o shut the tailgate, firmly push it upward until it latches.

After you put the tailgate back up, pull it back towards you to be sure it latches securely.

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Tailgate Removal

The tailgate on your vehicle can be removed to allow for different loading situations. Although the tailgate can be removed without assistance, you may want someone to assist you with the removal to avoid possible damage to the vehicle.

T o remove the tailgate, do the following:

1. Raise the tailgate slightly and release both retaining cable clips. T o release the retaining cable clips, lift the cable so it points straight out and push the cable clip forward.

2. With the tailgate at a slight upward angle, pull back on the tailgate at the right edge and then move the tailgate to the right to release the left edge.

Reverse the above procedure to reinstall. Make sure the tailgate is secure.

Theft

Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help.

-deterrent

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Key in the Ignition

If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves don’t do it.

When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. If you have a manual transmission, your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition. If you have an automatic transmission, your ignition and transmission will be locked. Also remember to lock the doors.

If the key is in the ignition, with any door open, and you try to lock your doors with the power door locks, the driver’s door will not stay locked. This will help to keep you from locking your keys in the vehicle.

-- so

Parking at Night

Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.

Parking Lots

Even if you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s still best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle?

Put your valuables in a storage area, like your glove box.

If your vehicle has a remote keyless entry system, take the transmitter with you.

Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

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Content Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a Content

-Deterrent alarm system.

Theft

With this system, the SECURITY message will flash as you open the door if the ignition is off.

This message reminds you to activate the theft system. Here’ s how to do it:

1. Open the door.

2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or the remote keyless entry transmitter. The SECURITY message should come on and stay on. If using the remote keyless entry transmitter, the door does not need to be open.

3. Close all doors. The SECURITY message should go off after approximately 15 seconds. The alarm is not armed until the SECURITY message goes off.

-deterrent

If a door is opened without the key or the remote keyless entry transmitter, the alarm will go off. Your vehicle’s headlamps will flash and the horn will sound for about two minutes, then will turn off to save the battery power.

Remember, the theft you lock the doors with a key or use the manual door lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock switch with the door open, or with the remote keyless entry transmitter. You should also remember that you can start your vehicle with the correct ignition key if the alarm has been set off.

Here’s how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident:

If you don’t want to activate the theft system, the vehicle should be locked with the door key after the doors are closed.

Always unlock a door with a key, or use the remote keyless entry transmitter. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm if the system has been armed.

If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any door with the key. You can also turn off the alarm by pressing UNLOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter or by placing the key in the ignition and turning it to STAR T.

-deterrent system won’t activate if

-deterrent

2-19

GMC Sierra 2002 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual:

How to Use this Manual

Safety Warnings and Symbols

Vehicle Damage Warnings

Vehicle Symbols

Model Reference

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Seats and Seat Controls

Manual Front Seat

Manual Lumbar Control (If Equipped)

Power Seat(s) (If Equipped)

Power Lumbar Control (If Equipped)

Memory Seat (If Equipped)

Heated Front Seats (If Equipped)

Reclining Seatbacks

Head Restraints

Seatback Latches

Rear Seat (Extended Cab)

Folding the Rear Seat

Rear Seat (Crew Cab)

Why Safety Belts Work

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

Adults

Driver Position

Lap-Shoulder Belt

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

Right Front Passenger Position

Air Bag System

How the Air Bag System Works

Where are the air bags?

When should an air bag inflate?

What makes an air bag inflate?

How does an air bag restrain?

What will you see after an air bag inflates?

Air Bag Off Switch (Regular Cab and Extended Cab Models)

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt

Rear Seat Passengers

Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

Lap-Shoulder Belt (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults

Children

Infants and Young Children

Restraint Systems for Children

Where to Put the Restraint (Regular Cab Pickup)

Where to Put the Restraint (Extended Cab Pickup)

Where to Put the Restraint (Crew Cab Pickup)

Top Strap

Right Front Passenger Position Top Strap Anchor (All Models)

Rear Seat Top Strap Anchors (Extended Cab Models)

Rear Seat Top Strap Anchors (Crew Cab Models)

Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) (If Equipped)

Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position (Extended Cab and Crew Cab)

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

Older Children

Safety Belt Extender

Checking Your Restraint Systems

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash

Section 2 Features and Controls

Windows

Manual Windows

Power Windows (If Equipped)

Swing-Out Windows (Extended Cab)

Keys

Door Locks

Power Door Locks (If Equipped)

Programmable Automatic Door Locks (If Equipped)

Lockout Prevention

Child Security Locks (Crew Cabs) (If Equipped)

Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)

Operation