GMC SIERRA HYBRID 2013, SILVERADO 2013 Owner Manual

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/29/12

2013 Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid M

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

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

Hybrid Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Seats and Restraints . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Airbag System . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .3-1

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 4-1

Additional Storage Features . . . 4-1

Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1

Warning Lights, Gauges, and

Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Information Displays . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

Vehicle Messages.. . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1

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

Driving Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Starting and Operating . . . . . . . . .9-2

Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . 9-4

Automatic Transmission . . . . . . .9-5

Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . 9-8

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . 9-8

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

Vehicle Checks.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14

Towing . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-18

Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . .10-22

Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1

Recommended Fluids . . . . . . . . 11-1

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

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

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

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ii Introduction

The names, logos, emblems,
slogans, vehicle model names, and
vehicle body designs appearing in
this manual including, but not limited
to, GM, the GM logo, CHEVROLET,
GMC, the CHEVROLET and GMC
Truck Emblems, SILVERADO, Z71,
and SIERRA are trademarks and/or
service marks of General Motors
LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates,
or licensors.

This manual describes features that
may or may not be on your specific
vehicle either because they are
options that you did not purchase or
due to changes subsequent to the
printing of this owner manual.
Please refer to the purchase
documentation relating to your
specific vehicle to confirm each of
the features found on your vehicle.
For vehicles first sold in Canada,
substitute the name “General
Motors of Canada Limited” for
Chevrolet and GMC Motor Division
wherever it appears in this manual.

Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 22974886 A First Printing

Keep this manual in the vehicle for
quick reference.

Your hybrid pickup is designed to be
more fuel efficient than the standard
pickup, which results in reduced
carbon dioxide emissions.

Canadian Vehicle Owners

Propriétaires Canadiens

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

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

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

Using this Supplement

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

Index

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

©

2012 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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In Brief 1-1

In Brief

Initial Drive Information

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

Hybrid Features

High Voltage Safety

Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Fuel Economy Gauge . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Automatic Engine Start/Stop

Feature . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Regenerative Braking . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Battery .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Initial Drive
Information

Transmission

Range Selection Mode

The Range Selection Mode switch
is on the shift lever.

To enable the Range Selection
feature:

1. Move the shift lever to the M
(Manual) position. The current
range will appear next to the M.

This is the highest attainable
range with all lower gears
accessible. As an example,
when 3 (Third) gear is selected,
1 (First) through 3 (Third) gears
are available.

2. Press the plus/minus buttons on
the steering column shift lever to
select the desired range of gears
for current driving conditions.

Cruise control can be used while the
vehicle is in Range Selection Mode.

See Manual Mode on page 9‑7.

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1-2 In Brief

Hybrid Features

Fuel Economy Gauge

High Voltage Safety Information

This vehicle has a standard 12-volt
battery and a high voltage hybrid
battery. Only a trained service
technician with the proper
knowledge and tools should inspect,
test, or replace the hybrid battery.
See your dealer if the hybrid battery
needs service.

The 12-volt battery cables, in the
engine compartment, are clearly
labeled. In emergency situations,
first responders can cut those
cables to disable the high voltage
hybrid battery system.

Metric

English

This gauge indicates fuel efficiency.
To obtain the best fuel efficiency,
operate the vehicle so that the
indicator is in the high
efficiency band.

Modifying both braking and
acceleration behavior to keep the
indicator in the center of the gauge
will result in the best system
efficiency and fuel economy.

See Fuel Economy Gauge on
page 5‑4.

Automatic Engine Start/ Stop Feature

Start the engine as you would any
other engine. See “Starting the
Engine” in the owner manual for
more information on starting. The
hybrid system provides very quiet
engine starting. If pulling a trailer
with trailer brakes, see Trailer
Towing on page 9‑8 for more
information.

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In Brief 1-3

Auto Stop

The vehicle has an Auto Stop
feature. After a successful engine
start, the engine may turn off and
operate in the Auto Stop mode.

Keep your foot firmly on the brake
pedal until you are ready for the
vehicle to move.

Engine OFF and AUTO STOP
modes are indicated on the
tachometer display. When the
tachometer needle indicates OFF,
the engine is not running and will
remain off until the ignition key is
placed in the START position or a
remote vehicle start is performed.
When the tachometer needle
indicates AUTO STOP, the hybrid
system is on, the engine is not
running, but may Auto Start at any
time without notice. See Tachometer
on page 5‑3 for more information.

A chime will sound if the driver door
is opened while in Auto Stop as a
reminder that the ignition switch is
not in the LOCK/OFF position.

Always turn the ignition switch to
LOCK/OFF and remove the key
from the ignition switch when exiting
the vehicle.

Auto Start

The vehicle also has an Auto Start
feature. The engine will remain off
while in Auto Stop mode until
vehicle conditions require the
engine to run. The near-instant
starting of the engine from Auto
Stop mode is called Auto Start.

EV Mode

The vehicle also has an EV mode
which uses only the electric motor to
move the vehicle. With light
acceleration, the vehicle will drive in
EV mode. EV mode is unavailable
when the vehicle is out of fuel.

For more information on Auto Stop,
Auto Start, and EV Mode, see
Starting the Vehicle on page 9‑2.

Regenerative Braking

Regenerative braking enables the
electric drive motor to operate as a
generator when coasting or braking.
Energy from the moving vehicle
recharges the hybrid battery.

The hydraulic disc brakes work with
the regenerative braking to ensure
effective braking.

The braking system is computer
controlled and blends the
regenerative braking with the
conventional hydraulic disc brakes
to meet any requirements for
deceleration. Because the controller
applies the hydraulic brakes through
its high pressure accumulator, you
may occasionally hear the motor
driven pump when it recharges the
system. This is normal. In the event
of a controller problem, the brake
pedal may be harder to push and
the stopping distance may be
longer.

See Regenerative Braking on
page 9‑8.

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1-4 In Brief

Battery

This vehicle has a standard 12-volt
battery and a high voltage hybrid
battery. When a new standard
12-volt battery is needed, see your
dealer for one that has the
replacement number shown on the
original battery's label. Only a
trained service technician with the
proper knowledge and tools should
inspect, test, or replace the hybrid
battery. See your dealer if the hybrid
battery needs service. See Battery
on page 10‑10.

Service

Never try to do your own service on
hybrid components. You can be
injured and the vehicle can be
damaged if you try to do your own
service work. Service and repair of
these hybrid components should
only be performed by a trained
service technician with the proper
knowledge and tools. See Doing

Your Own Service Work on
page 10‑1.

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Seats and Restraints 3-1

Seats and Restraints

Rear Seats

Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . 3-1

Airbag System

Replacing Airbag System Parts

after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Rear Seats

Folding Rear Seat

Notice: Folding a rear seat with
the safety belts still fastened may
cause damage to the seat or the
safety belts. Always unbuckle the
safety belts and return them to
their normal stowed position
before folding a rear seat.

Make sure that nothing is on
the seat.

To fold the seat, slowly pull the seat
cushion up.

To return the seat to the normal
seating position, slowly pull the seat
cushion down.

Make sure the safety belts are not
twisted or caught in the seat
cushion.

Airbag System

Replacing Airbag System Parts after a Crash

If an airbag inflates or the vehicle
has been in a crash, the vehicle's
sensing system may command the
automatic hybrid battery disconnect
to open. When the battery
disconnect is open, the hybrid
battery will be off and the vehicle
will not start. The airbag readiness
light and/or SERVICE HYBRID
SYSTEM warning message may
come on in the Driver Information
Center (DIC). See “Airbag
Readiness Light” in the owner
manual and Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑9 for more
information.

To operate the vehicle, the
automatic hybrid battery disconnect
must be reconnected by a qualified
service technician and sensing
system parts will need to be
replaced. Have the vehicle serviced
right away.

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3-2 Seats and Restraints

2 NOTES

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Storage 4-1

Storage

Additional Storage Features

Additional Storage Features

Tonneau Cover (Hard

Tonneau) . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 4-1

Tonneau Cover (Soft

Tonneau) . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 4-6

Tonneau Cover (Hard Tonneau)

Installing the Cover

{

An unsecured cargo cover could
strike people in a sudden stop or
turn, or in a crash. Store the
cargo cover securely or remove it
from the vehicle.

WARNING

1. Position the tonneau cover onto
the top of the pickup box with
the locator tabs positioned into
the front stake pockets.

If equipped, remove the front
stake pocket covers from the
bed rail protectors. The locators
must fully seat into the stake
pocket.

2. Align the front edge of the cover
with the front edge of the bed rail
so that it is centered on each
side of the truck bed.

3. Lower the front clamp from its
storage position.

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4-2 Storage

4. Tilt the clamp assembly so that
the locator is in the slot, pull
down on the assembly, and slide
the clamp under the edge of the
inner lip of the bed rail.

5. Pull the handle toward the rear
of the truck to engage the clamp.
Make sure the locator is secure
into the slot (A). If unable to
completely engage clamp, see
the tightening and loosening
procedures later in this section.

6. The clamp should be securely
engaged. Shake the handle
assembly to make sure the
handle does not move.

7. There are locking features on
the front clamps only. With the
handle in the clamped position,
push the locking tab to engage
the lock.

8. Repeat the clamp attachment
steps 3 through 7 for the
opposite side.

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Closing the Cover

Storage 4-3

4. Tilt the clamp assembly so that
the locator is in the slot, pull

1. Release both the retention
straps located on the top of the
cover behind the cab and press
into the stored position.

2. Unfold the tonneau cover to the
closed position.

3. Lower the rear set of clamp
assemblies from the stored
position.

down on the assembly, and slide
the clamp under the edge of the
inner lip on the bed rail.

5. Pull the handle toward the rear
of the truck to engage the clamp.
Make sure the locator is secured
into the slot (A). If unable to
completely engage clamp, see
the tightening and loosening
procedures later in this section.

6. The clamp should be securely
engaged. Shake the handle
assembly to make sure the
handle does not move.

7. Repeat the clamp attachment
steps 3 through 6 for the
opposite side.

8. Close the endgate.

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4-4 Storage

Opening the Tonneau Cover

1. Turn both of the rear handles
inward to release compression.

2. Pull the clamp down and turn the
assemblies to disengage them
from the lip of the pickup box.

3. Open the cover to expose the
handles.

4. Align the clamp assembly
bolt (A) with the retention
feature (B).

5. Turn the handle assembly and
clamp assembly bolt
sideways (A) into the slot of the
retention feature (B).

6. The handle should lie flat on the
panel with the handles facing
inward. Press firmly to secure.

This step must be done before
stowing the cover.

7. Fold the cover forward.

8. Remove the retaining strap from
the bow. Connect the retention
buckle ends. One end is located
on the front of the tonneau cover
behind the cab and the other
end is on the tonneau cover

9. Pull on each strap to make sure
both buckles are attached.

Removing the Tonneau Cover

1. Open the cover by following the
procedure described previously,
under “Opening the Tonneau
Cover”.

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Storage 4-5

2. Disengage the locking tabs,
located on the front handles, by
pulling them rearward.

3. Turn the handles inward to
release.

4. Pull the clamp down and turn the
assembly to disengage it from
the lip of the truck box.

5. Turn the cover to expose the
handles.

6. Align the clamp assembly
bolt (A), with the retention
feature (B).

7. Turn the handle assembly
sideways by tilting the assembly
bolt (A) into the slot of the
retention feature (B).

8. The handle should lie flat on the
panel with the handles facing
inward. Press firmly to secure.

9. Remove the tonneau cover from
the vehicle.

Tightening the Clamp

1. Push the handle forward to
release it from the clamped
position.

2. Disengage the clamp from the
inner edge of the bed rail and
slide the assembly inward.

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4-6 Storage

3. Adjust the clamp height on the
bolt by turning the entire clamp
assembly counter-clockwise.

4. Attach the clamps as indicated
in steps 4 and 5 of Installing the
Cover.

Loosening the Clamp

1. Return the handle to the fully
disengaged position.

2. Disengage the clamp from the
inner edge of the bed rail and
slide the assembly inward.

3. Adjust the clamp height by
turning the entire clamp
assembly clockwise.

4. Reattach the clamps as
indicated in steps 4 and 5 of
Installing the Cover.

Tonneau Cover (Soft Tonneau)

Right Side Rail Installation

WARNING

{

An unsecured cargo cover could
strike people in a sudden stop or
turn, or in a crash. Store the
cargo cover securely or remove it
from the vehicle.

1. Place the right side rail (A) on
top of the truck box with the end
without the adjuster screw (B)
pointing toward the tailgate.

2. Align the rear edge of the side
rail (C) with the inside edge of
the tailgate (D).

Clamp Installation

1. Position three outer clamps (A),
on the right side rail. The
positions on the side rails are
marked CLAMP.

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Storage 4-7

2. Position the grooves of the
clamps on the side rails (A)
using the center groove (B).

3. If the pickup box has molded
bed rail protectors (A), remove
the insert (C) from the outer
groove on the clamp, and
position the clamp on the side
rail (B) using the outer
groove (D).

4. Slide the inner clamp (B) into the
outer clamp (A).

5. Rotate the latch (C) onto the
outer clamp.

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4-8 Storage

Cover Installation

6. Tighten the clamp by rotating the
latch (C) toward the side rail.
Make sure there is no gap
between the rubber clamp pad
and the side rail.

7. If the truck box has a molded
bed rail protector, insert the latch
into the top notch on the inner
clamp.

1. Place the cover assembly (A)
into the front pivot mounts in the
side rail (B).

2. Place the cover assembly
latch (A) into the slot on the side
rail (B).

Make sure there is not a gap
between the cover assembly and
the side rail.

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Left Side Rail Installation

Storage 4-9

2. Place the left side rail
assembly (B) into the cover

1. Place the left side rail (A) on top
of the truck box with the end
without the adjuster screw (C)
pointing toward the tailgate.

Align the rear edge of the side
rail (B) with the inside edge of
the tailgate (D).

assembly (A).

3. Make sure the latch (A) in the
cover assembly engages into
the slot in the side rail (B)
assembly.

Make sure there is a 1/8 inch
gap between the cover assembly
and the side rail (B). This gap
should not be larger than
1/8 inch.

4. Follow the instructions earlier in
this section to install the clamps
on the left side rail.

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4-10 Storage

Closing the Cover

2. Unbuckle both straps and roll
the cover out. Make sure that

1. Verify the gap between the
adjuster screws and pivot
mounts is 3/16 inch. Adjust if
needed.

each bow falls in between the
side rails. If the bows do not fit
between the side rails, verify that
the clamps are pushed fully
outboard without any gaps
between the clamp pad and
pickup box. If additional
clearance is required, remove
the clamp closest to the
interference. Remove the orange
strip to allow access to the outer
slot of the upper clamp. Reinstall
the clamp using the outer groove
of the upper clamp. If bows are

too loose, adjust the clamp
closest to the bow with the
excessive clearance to the inner
groove of the upper clamp.

3. When the cover is rolled out,
place the rear rail into the rear
pivot mounts. Firmly press down
on the driver side until the latch
is secured into the rear rail.
If latch is too tight, loosen the
tension adjustment screws. If the
latch is not securely holding the
rear rail, tighten the tension
adjustment screws. Only the
driver's side has a latch.

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Storage 4-11

4. Secure the driver side Velcro®
of the cover to the side rail. Then
pull the cover tight across the
bed and fasten the Velcro® on
the passenger side.

5. Secure the buckles by folding
them once, then slide them
under the cord located on the
cover.

Securing the Cover in the
Open Position

1. To open the cover, open tailgate
and push down on the cover.
The pull back on pull strap.

2. From the driver side, roll the
cover up tightly.

3. When the cover is rolled up,
buckle both tie-down straps. Pull
both straps tight.

Cover Adjustment

1. If the cover is too loose, turn the
tensioning screw clockwise to
tighten the tension of the vinyl.
This makes it harder to operate
the rear release latch. The
tensioning screws are located on
each side rail. Use the provided
1/4 inch key to turn the
tensioning screws.

2. Adjust the screws on both sides
to the same tension.

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4-12 Storage

2 NOTES

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Instruments and Controls 5-1

Instruments and Controls

Information Displays

Driver Information

Center (DIC) . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . 5-9

Vehicle Messages

Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators

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

Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Fuel Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 5-3

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

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge . . . 5-5
Engine Coolant Temperature

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

Charging System Light . . . . . . . . 5-6

Brake System Warning

Light . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . 5-7

Antilock Brake System (ABS)

Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

StabiliTrak
Traction Control System (TCS)/

StabiliTrak

Engine Oil Pressure Light . . . . . 5-9

®

OFF Light . . . . . . . . 5-8

®

Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Vehicle Messages . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Battery Voltage and Charging

Messages . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. 5-10

Brake System Messages . . . . 5-10

Door Ajar Messages . . . . . . . . . 5-11

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

Service Vehicle Messages . . . 5-11

Warning Lights,
Gauges, and
Indicators

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5-2 Instruments and Controls

Instrument Cluster

English Version Shown, Metric Similar

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Instruments and Controls 5-3

Tachometer

English Shown, Metric Similar

When the ignition is in ON/RUN, the
tachometer indicates the vehicle
status.

When pointing to AUTO STOP, the
vehicle is on and can move. the
engine could AUTO START at any
time. when the indicator is OFF, the
vehicle is off. when the engine is on,
the tachometer will indicate the
engine's revolutions per
minute (rpm).

The tachometer may vary by several
hundred rpm's, during AUTO STOP
mode, when the engine is shutting
off and restarting. A slight bump
may be felt when the transmission is
determining the most fuel efficient
operating range.

Fuel Gauge

Metric

English

When the ignition is on, the fuel
gauge shows approximately how
much fuel is left in the fuel tank. An
arrow on the fuel gauge indicates
the side of the vehicle the fuel door
is on. The gauge first indicates
E (empty) before the vehicle is out
of fuel, but the vehicle should be
refueled as soon as possible.

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5-4 Instruments and Controls

Listed are four situations that may
occur with the fuel gauge, none of
these indicate a problem:

.

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

.

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

.

The gauge moves a little while
turning a corner or while
accelerating.

.

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

Fuel Economy Gauge

Metric

English

This gauge is to assist in driving
efficiently and may vary during
normal operation.

the vehicle is being driven the most
efficient when the gauge is kept in
the middle.

The gauge moves to the left when
braking and to the right when
accelerating. When either are done
aggressively, the efficiency is
decreased.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Instruments and Controls 5-5

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

The oil pressure gauge shows the

Metric

engine oil pressure in psi (pounds
per square inch) when the engine is
running. Canadian vehicles indicate
pressure in kPa (kilopascals). The
oil pressure gauge will read zero
when operating in the AUTO
STOP mode.

Oil pressure should be 200 to
550 kPa (29 to 80 psi). In certain
situations, such as long extended
idles on hot days, it could read as
low as 105 kPa (15 psi) and still be
considered normal.

English

When the engine is running
readings in the low pressure zone
may be caused by a dangerously
low oil level or some other problems
causing low oil pressure.

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

AUTO STOP

When the engine is in AUTO STOP
mode, the oil pressure gauge drops
to zero. Oil pressure returns to the
normal operating range after the
engine starts.

See Starting the Vehicle on
page 9‑2 for more information.

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5-6 Instruments and Controls

AUTO STOP displays in the Driver
Information Center (DIC) when the
vehicle speed is zero. See Driver

Information Center (DIC) on
page 5‑9 for more information.

Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge

Metric

English

This gauge shows the engine
coolant temperature.

It also provides an indicator of how
hard the vehicle is working. During a
majority of the operation, the gauge
reads 100°C (210°F) or less. If a
load is being pulled or going up
hills, it is normal for the temperature
to fluctuate and go over the 113°C
(235°F) mark. However, if the gauge
reaches the 125°C (260°F) mark, it
indicates that the cooling system is
working beyond its capacity.

Charging System Light

This 12‐volt battery light comes on
briefly when the ignition is turned to
ON/RUN, but the engine is not
running, as a check to show it is
working.

It should go out once the engine
has been started. If it stays on,
or comes on while driving, there
could be a problem with the 12‐volt
charging system. Have the vehicle
serviced by your dealer. A 12‐volt
charging system Driver Information
Center (DIC) message may also
appear. See Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑9 for more
information. This light could indicate
that there are electrical problems.

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Instruments and Controls 5-7

Have it checked right away. If a
short distance must be driven with
the light on, be certain to turn off all
the accessories.

Brake System Warning Light

With the ignition in ON/RUN, the
brake system warning light comes
on when the parking brake is set.
If the vehicle is driven with the
parking brake engaged, a chime
sounds when the vehicle speed is
greater than 8 km/h (5 mph).

The vehicle brake system consists
of two hydraulic circuits. If one
circuit is not working, the remaining
circuit can still work to stop the
vehicle. For normal braking
performance, both circuits need to
be working.

If the warning light comes on and a
chime sounds there could be a
brake problem. Have the brake
system inspected right away.

This light also comes on due to low
brake fluid. See the owner manual
for more information.

Metric English

This light should come on briefly
when the ignition key is turned to
ON/RUN. If it does not come on
then, have it fixed so it will be ready
to warn if there is a problem.

WARNING

{

The brake system might not be
working properly if the brake
system warning light is on.
Driving with the brake system
warning light on can lead to a
crash. If the light is still on after
the vehicle has been pulled off

(Continued)

WARNING (CONTINUED)

the road and carefully stopped,
have the vehicle towed for
service.

If the light comes on while driving,
pull off the road and stop carefully.
The pedal might be harder to push
or can go closer to the floor. It may
take longer to stop. If the light does
not go out, have the vehicle towed
for service. See “Towing the
Vehicle” in the owner manual.

Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light

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5-8 Instruments and Controls

For vehicles with the Antilock Brake
System (ABS), this light comes on
briefly when the engine is in
ON/RUN.

That is normal. If the light does not
come on then, have it fixed so it will
be ready to warn if there is a
problem.

If the ABS light stays on, turn the
ignition off, if the light comes on
while driving, stop as soon as it is
safely possible and turn the ignition
off. Then start the engine again to
reset the system. If the ABS light
still stays on, or comes on again
while driving, the vehicle needs
service. If the regular brake system
warning light is not on, the vehicle
still has brakes, but not antilock
brakes. If the regular brake system
warning light is also on, the vehicle
does not have antilock brakes and
there is a problem with the regular
brakes. See Brake System Warning
Light on page 5‑7.

For vehicles with a Driver
Information Center (DIC), see Driver

Information Center (DIC) on
page 5‑9 for all brake related DIC

messages.

StabiliTrak®OFF Light

This light comes on briefly when the
ignition is in ON/RUN.

If it does not, have the vehicle
serviced by your dealer. If the
system is working normally, the
indicator light then goes off.

Press and release the Traction
Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak
button to turn off TCS, and a
message displays in the DIC.

Press and briefly hold the TCS/
StabiliTrak button to turn off the
StabiliTrak system; the StabiliTrak

OFF light comes on and a message
appears in the Driver Information
Center (DIC).

If the StabiliTrak/TCS system is off,
the system does not assist in
controlling the vehicle. Turn on the
StabiliTrak/TCS system and the
indicator light turns off.

See the owner manual for more
information.

Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak

The Traction Control System (TCS)/
StabiliTrak light comes on briefly
when the engine is in ON/RUN.

®

Light

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Instruments and Controls 5-9

If the light does not come on or
stays on, have the vehicle serviced
by the dealer. If the system is
working normally, the indicator light
turns off.

If the light comes on and stays on
while driving, and a message
displays in the Driver Information
Center (DIC), have the vehicle
serviced by the dealer. See Ride
Control System Messages for more
information.

If the light flashes while driving, this
means that the StabiliTrak or the
TCS is assisting in controlling the
vehicle.

See the owner manual for more
information.

Engine Oil Pressure Light

Notice: Lack of proper engine oil
maintenance can damage the
engine. Driving with the engine
oil low can also damage the
engine. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

Check the oil level as soon as
possible. Add oil if required, but
if the oil level is within the
operating range and the oil
pressure is still low, have the
vehicle serviced. Always follow
the maintenance schedule for
changing engine oil.

This light comes on briefly as a
check it works, when the ignition is
in ON/RUN. If it does not, have the
vehicle serviced.

If the light comes on and stays on, it
means that oil is not flowing through
the engine properly. The vehicle
could be low on oil and might have
some other system problem.

During an Auto Stop there is zero oil
pressure, but this light will not
come on.

Information Displays

Driver Information Center (DIC)

Trip/Fuel Menu Items

Press the trip/fuel button to display
the Trip/Fuel Menu items. For more
items see “Driver Information Center
(DIC)” in the owner manual.

BATTERY VOLTAGE

This display shows the current
battery voltage. If the voltage is in
the normal range, the value will
display. For example, the display
may read BATTERY VOLTAGE 13
VOLTS. Your vehicle's charging
system regulates voltage based on
the state of the battery. The battery
voltage may fluctuate when viewing
this information on the DIC. This is
normal. See “Charging System
Light” in the owner manual for more

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5-10 Instruments and Controls

information. If there is a problem
with the battery charging system,
the DIC will display a message. See

Battery Voltage and Charging
Messages on page 5‑10.

INST ECON (Instantaneous
Economy)

This display normally shows
instantaneous fuel economy. When
the vehicle is in Auto Stop mode
AUTO STOP or IFE = 0 L/100km or
IFE = 99 MPG will be displayed.
See Starting the Vehicle on
page 9‑2 for more information.

Vehicle Messages

Messages displayed on the DIC
indicate the status of the vehicle or
some action may be needed to
correct a condition. Multiple
messages may appear one after
another.

The messages that do not require
immediate action can be
acknowledged and cleared by

pressing

The messages that require
immediate action cannot be cleared
until that action is performed.

All messages should be taken
seriously. Clearing the message
does not correct the problem.

The following are the possible
messages for the Hybrid and some
information about them. For
information on other DIC messages,
see “Vehicle Messages” in the
owner manual.

V (Set/Reset).

Battery Voltage and Charging Messages

SERVICE BATTERY
CHARGING SYSTEM

If the 12-volt battery system faults or
fails this message will appear on the
DIC. The battery/charging system
light will appear in the instrument
panel cluster. See “Battery Warning
Light” in the owner manual. Driving
with this message on could drain
the battery. Have the electrical
system checked as soon as
possible.

Brake System Messages

SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM

This message may be displayed if
there is a problem with the brake
system. You will still be able to
brake, but it will be noticeably more
difficult. Pull off the road to a safe
location and have your vehicle
towed to the nearest dealer for
service. See “Brakes,” “Brake

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Instruments and Controls 5-11

System Warning Light,” and “ABS
Brake System Warning Light” in the
owner manual.

This message may also come on
when you are towing a trailer. See

“Trailer Brakes” under Trailer Towing
on page 9‑8 for more information.

Door Ajar Messages

HOOD OPEN

If the hood is not fully closed or
there is a problem with the hood
switch, this message will be
displayed. Close the hood to clear
the message. If the HOOD OPEN
message continues to be displayed
after verifying the hood is closed,
you should have the hood switch
serviced. Failure to service the hood
switch properly can result in an Auto
Start condition.

Auto Stops will be disabled when
this message is displayed. If the
vehicle is in Auto Stop mode when
this message appears, the engine
will instantly start.

Engine Oil Messages

OIL PRESSURE LOW STOP
ENGINE

If engine oil pressure is low, this
message will be displayed on the
DIC. Stop the vehicle as soon as
safely possible and do not operate it
until the cause of the low oil
pressure has been corrected. Check
your oil level as soon as possible
and have your vehicle serviced. See
“Engine Oil” in the owner manual.

Service Vehicle Messages

SERVICE HYBRID SYSTEM

If this message is displayed on the
DIC, the vehicle may continue to
operate, but you need to have it
serviced as soon as possible.

SERVICE POWER STEERING

This message displays if a problem
has been detected with the electric
power steering. Have your vehicle
serviced by your dealer immediately.

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5-12 Instruments and Controls

2 NOTES

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Infotainment System 7-1

Infotainment System

Introduction

Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Introduction

Infotainment

For vehicles with a navigation radio
system, see the Navigation System
manual for more information.

To view the hybrid screen, press the
MENU button on the radio. The
hybrid screen displays when
entering the Configuration Menu.

The display shows:

.

Auto Stop

.

Battery Charging

.

Engine Idle

.

Two‐Wheel and Four‐Wheel
Drive Modes for:

‐ Engine Power

‐ Battery Power

‐ Hybrid Power

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7-2 Infotainment System

2 NOTES

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Climate Controls 8-1

Climate Controls

Climate Control Systems

Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1

Climate Control
Systems

For more information on the
vehicle's climate control system, see
“Climate Control Systems” in the
owner manual.

Electric Air Conditioning
Compressor

This hybrid vehicle has an
electrically powered air conditioning
compressor. This allows for
continuous air conditioning
operation and passenger comfort,
even while the hybrid engine cycles
on and off.

When operating the climate control
system, select the AUTO mode and
the desired temperature setting. The
climate control system automatically
adjusts the fan speed and airflow
direction. The climate control
system continues to adjust the
climate control settings chosen for
best use of electrical power.

At mild temperatures, select a
warmer air conditioner temperature
or turn the air conditioner off to get
maximum fuel economy. Continuous
air conditioner use can cause the
vehicle to Auto Start more
frequently. During hot weather,
driving with the windows closed and
the air conditioner set to Auto mode,
will result in better Hybrid system
performance.

Some noise may be heard
occasionally from the compressor,
especially when air conditioning use
is high and the engine has
turned off.

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8-2 Climate Controls

2 NOTES

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Driving and Operating 9-1

Driving and Operating

Driving Information

Steering

Electric Power Steering

Driving Information

Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 9-1

Starting and Operating

Starting the Vehicle . . .. . . . . . . . 9-2

Engine Coolant Heater . . . . . . . . 9-3

Engine Exhaust

Running the Vehicle While

Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . 9-5

Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

Brakes

Regenerative Braking . . . . . . . . . 9-8

Towing

Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 9-8

Towing Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9

The vehicle has electric power
steering. It does not have power
steering fluid. Regular maintenance
is not required.

If power steering assist is lost due
to a system malfunction, the vehicle
can be steered, but may require
increased effort. See your dealer if
there is a problem.

If the steering wheel is turned until it
reaches the end of its travel and is
held against that position for an
extended period of time, power
steering assist may be reduced.

Normal use of the power steering
assist should return when the
system cools down.

See the owner manual for more
information.

See your dealer if there is a
problem.

Curve Tips

.

Take curves at a reasonable
speed.

.

Reduce speed before entering a
curve.

.

Maintain a reasonable steady
speed through the curve.

.

Wait until the vehicle is out of
the curve before accelerating
gently into the straightaway.

Steering in Emergencies

.

There are some situations when
steering around a problem may
be more effective than braking.

.

Holding both sides of the
steering wheel allows you to turn
180 degrees without removing
a hand.

.

The Antilock Brake System
(ABS) allows steering while
braking.

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9-2 Driving and Operating

Starting and Operating

Starting the Vehicle

WARNING

{

Exiting the vehicle, without first
shifting into P (Park), may cause
the vehicle to move, and you or
others can be seriously injured.
Because the vehicle has the
Automatic Engine Start/Stop
feature, the vehicle’s engine
might seem to be shut off when
you come to a complete stop.
However, once the brake pedal is
released, the vehicle can move.
The vehicle’s engine can also
restart at any time.

Shift to P (Park) and turn the
ignition to LOCK/OFF, before
exiting the vehicle.

Start the engine as you would any
other engine. See “Starting the
Engine” in the owner manual for
more information on starting.
If pulling a trailer with trailer brakes,
see Towing Equipment on page 9‑9.

Auto Stop

The vehicle has an Auto Stop
feature. After a successful engine
start, the engine may turn off and
operate in the Auto Stop mode.
Some of the vehicle conditions that
allow the engine to stop running and
enter the Auto Stop mode are:

.

Ignition switch is in the ON/RUN
position.

.

The hood is closed.

.

The gear selector is in P (Park),
R (Reverse), N (Neutral),
or D (Drive).

.

The hybrid battery is at an
acceptable state of charge.

.

The hybrid battery voltage,
temperature or power limits are
not exceeded. In very hot

conditions, Auto Stop may be
unavailable until the hybrid
battery has cooled.

.

The engine is at operating
temperature.

.

The vehicle may enter Auto Stop
after a remote vehicle start.

With your foot off the brake and the
vehicle on level ground, the hybrid
drive motor may cause the vehicle
to roll slowly forward, even when the
engine is in Auto Stop.

Keep your foot firmly on the brake
pedal until you are ready for the
vehicle to move.

Engine OFF and AUTO STOP
modes are indicated on the
tachometer display. When the
tachometer needle indicates OFF,
the engine is not running and will
remain off until the ignition key is
placed in the START position or a
remote vehicle start is performed.
When the tachometer needle
indicates AUTO STOP, the hybrid
system is on, the engine is not

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

running, but may Auto Start at any
time without notice. See Tachometer
on page 5‑3.

A chime will sound if the driver door
is opened while in Auto Stop as a
reminder that the ignition switch is
not in the LOCK/OFF position.
Always turn the ignition switch to
LOCK/OFF and remove the key
from the ignition switch when exiting
the vehicle.

Auto Start

The vehicle also has an Auto Start
feature. The engine will remain off
while in Auto Stop mode until
vehicle conditions require the
engine to run. The near-instant
starting of the engine from Auto
Stop mode is called Auto Start.
Some of the vehicle conditions that
may cause the engine to Auto
Start are:

.

The hood is opened.

.

The gear selector is in
M (Manual Mode).

.

The hybrid battery state of
charge is too low.

.

The hybrid battery voltage,
temperature, or power limits are
exceeded.

.

A remote vehicle start has been
requested.

.

The engine is not at operating
temperature.

.

Acceleration demands require
the use of the engine.

EV Mode

The vehicle also has an Electric
Vehicle (EV) mode which uses only
the electric motor to move the
vehicle. With light acceleration, the
vehicle will drive in EV mode. EV
mode is unavailable when the
vehicle is out of fuel.

If increased acceleration is
required, or the vehicle reaches
approximately 40 km/h (30 mph), the
engine will start automatically. The
engine shuts off at speeds below

Driving and Operating 9-3

40 km/h (25 mph) unless the
transmission is in M (Manual Mode)
or Auto Stop is disabled.

During heavy acceleration, both the
engine and hybrid electric motors
supply power. A sensation similar to
a transmission gear change can be
felt as the transmission changes
modes. Engine rpm may remain
above 4,000 rpm for a longer period
during hard acceleration.

Engine Coolant Heater

The engine coolant heater can
provide easier starting and better
fuel economy during engine
warm-up in cold weather conditions
at or below −18°C (0°F). Vehicles
with an engine heater should be
plugged in at least four hours before
starting. An internal thermostat in
the plug-end of the cord may exist
which will prevent engine coolant
heater operation at temperatures
above −18°C (0°F).

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9-4 Driving and Operating

Using the Engine Coolant
Heater

1. Turn off the engine.

2. Open the hood and unwrap the
electrical cord. The cord is
secured to a wiring harness
between the engine and the
Hybrid Auxiliary Underhood
Fuse Block with a clip. Carefully
remove the wire tie which
secures the electrical cord. Do
not cut the electrical cord.

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

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

4. Before starting the engine, be

The length of time the heater should
remain plugged in depends on
several factors. Ask a dealer in the
area where you will be parking the
vehicle for the best advice on this.

{

sure to unplug and store the
cord as it was before to keep it
away from moving engine parts.
If you do not, it could be
damaged.

WARNING

Engine Exhaust

Running the Vehicle While Parked

It is better not to park with the
engine running.

If the vehicle is left with the engine
running, follow the proper steps to
be sure the vehicle will not move.
See “Shifting Into Park” and “Engine
Exhaust” in the owner manual.

If parking on a hill and pulling a
trailer, see “Driving Characteristics
and Towing Tips” in the owner
manual.

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Driving and Operating 9-5

Automatic Transmission

The vehicle has an electronic shift
position indicator within the
instrument panel cluster.

There are several different positions
for the shift lever.

See “Range Selection Mode” in this
section.

P (Park): This position locks the
rear wheels. It is the best position to
use when you start the engine
because the vehicle cannot move
easily.

When parked on a hill, especially
when the vehicle has a heavy load,
you may notice an increase in the
effort to shift out of P (Park). See

“Shifting Into Park” in the Index of
vehicle's owner manual for more
information.

WARNING

{

It is dangerous to get out of the
vehicle if the shift lever is not fully
in P (Park) with the parking brake
firmly set. The vehicle can roll.

Do not leave the vehicle when the
engine is running. If you have left
the engine running, the vehicle
can move suddenly. You or others
could be injured. To be sure the
vehicle will not move, even when
you are on fairly level ground,
always set the parking brake and
move the shift lever to P (Park).
See “Shifting Into Park” and
“Driving Characteristics and
Towing Tips” in the owner
manual.

WARNING

{

If you have Four-Wheel Drive, the
vehicle will be free to roll — even
if the shift lever is in P (Park) — if
the transfer case is in Neutral. So,
be sure the transfer case is in a
drive gear, Two-Wheel Drive High
or Four-Wheel Drive High or
Four-Wheel Drive Low — not in
Neutral. See “Shifting Into Park”
in the owner manual.

R (Reverse): Use this gear to
back up.

Notice: Shifting to R (Reverse)
while the vehicle is moving
forward could damage the
transmission. The repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Shift to R (Reverse) only
after the vehicle is stopped.

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9-6 Driving and Operating

To rock the vehicle back and forth to
get out of snow, ice, or sand without
damaging the transmission, see “If
the Vehicle is Stuck” in the Index of
the vehicle's owner manual.

N (Neutral): In this position, the
engine and transmission are not
connected with the wheels. To
restart the engine when the vehicle
is already moving, use
N (Neutral) only.

WARNING

{

Shifting into a drive gear while the
engine is running at high speed is
dangerous. Unless your foot is
firmly on the brake pedal, the
vehicle could move very rapidly.
You could lose control and hit
people or objects. Do not shift
into a drive gear while the engine
is running at high speed.

Notice: Shifting out of P (Park) or
N (Neutral) with the engine
running at high speed may
damage the transmission. The
repairs would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Be sure the
engine is not running at high
speed when shifting the vehicle.

D (Drive): This position is for

normal driving. It provides the best
fuel economy. If you need more
power for passing, and you are:

.

Going less than about 55 km/h
(35 mph), push the accelerator
pedal about halfway down.

.

Going about 55 km/h (35 mph) or
more, push the accelerator all
the way down.

D (Drive) or M (Manual Mode) can
be used when towing a trailer,
carrying a heavy load, driving on
steep hills, or for off-road driving.
You may want to shift the
transmission to a lower gear
selection if the transmission shifts
too often.

Downshifting the transmission in
slippery road conditions could result
in skidding. See “Skidding” under
“Loss of Control” in the owner
manual for more information.

When temperatures are very cold,
the transmission's gear shifting may
be delayed, providing more stable
shifts until the engine warms up.
Shifts may be more noticeable with
a cold transmission. This difference
in shifting is normal.

M (Manual Mode): This position
lets drivers select the range of gears
appropriate for current driving
conditions. If the vehicle has this
feature, see Manual Mode on
page 9‑7.

Notice: Spinning the tires or
holding the vehicle in one place
on a hill using only the
accelerator pedal may damage
the transmission. The repair will
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. If you are stuck, do not

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Driving and Operating 9-7

spin the tires. When stopping on
a hill, use the brakes to hold the
vehicle in place.

The vehicle has a shift stabilization
feature that adjusts the transmission
shifting to the current driving
conditions to reduce rapid upshifts
and downshifts. If the shift
stabilization feature determines that
a current vehicle speed cannot be
maintained, the transmission does
not upshift. In some cases, this may
appear to be a delayed shift,
however the transmission is
operating normally.

Manual Mode

Range Selection Mode

The Range Selection Mode controls
the vehicle's transmission.

To use this feature:

1. Move the shift lever to the
M (Manual Mode).

2. Press the plus/minus button to
upshift or downshift selecting the
desired range of gears.

A number displays next to the M,
indicating the current gear that has
been selected. The number
displayed in the gear indicator is the
highest gear that can be used. The
vehicle can automatically shift to
lower gears as it adjusts to driving
conditions. When 3 (Third) is
selected, 1 (First) through 3 (Third)
gears are automatically shifted by
the vehicle, but 4 (Fourth) cannot be
used until it is selected.

The Range Selection Mode controls
the vehicle and engine speed while
driving down a hill or towing a trailer,
by allowing you to select a desired
range of gears.

When you move the shift lever into
M, the transmission will default to
M4. In this gear range, effective
engine braking occurs at speeds
above 72 km/h (45 mph).

Pushing the minus (−) button on the
shift lever reduces the gear range.

In the M3 gear range, effective
engine braking occurs at speeds
above 56 km/h (35 mph).

In the M2 gear range, effective
engine braking occurs at speeds
above 40 km/h (25 mph).

In the M1 gear range, effective
engine braking occurs at speeds
above 16 km/h (10 mph).

When operating in M (Manual
Mode), Auto Stop is disabled. For
better vehicle efficiency, operate the
vehicle in D (Drive) not
M (Manual Mode).

Cruise control can be used while
using the Range Selection Mode.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

9-8 Driving and Operating

Brakes

Regenerative Braking

Regenerative braking is a hybrid
technology that enables the electric
drive motor to operate as a
generator when coasting or braking.
Energy from the moving vehicle
recharges the hybrid battery.

The hydraulic disc brakes work with
the regenerative braking to ensure
effective braking, such as when a
high braking demand is requested.

The braking system is computer
controlled and blends the
regenerative braking with the
conventional hydraulic disc brakes
to meet any requirements for
deceleration. The controller
interprets the braking request and
uses regenerative braking,
conventional hydraulic braking or a
combination of both as necessary.
Because the controller applies the
hydraulic brakes through its high
pressure accumulator, you may
occasionally hear the motor driven
pump when it recharges the system.
This is normal.

In the event of a controller problem,
the brake pedal may be harder to
push and the stopping distance may
be longer.

Towing

Trailer Towing

For more information, see “Trailer
Towing” in the owner manual.

Weight of the Trailer

How heavy can a trailer safely be?

It depends on how the rig is used.
For example, speed, altitude, road
grades, outside temperature and
how much the vehicle is used to pull
a trailer are all important. It can
depend on any special equipment
on the vehicle, and the amount of
tongue weight the vehicle can carry.

Maximum trailer weight is calculated
assuming only the driver is in the
tow vehicle and it has all the
required trailering equipment. The
weight of additional optional
equipment, passengers and cargo in
the tow vehicle must be subtracted
from the maximum trailer weight.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Driving and Operating 9-9

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

Vehicle Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR*

2WD 6.0 L V8 3.08 2 767 kg (6,100 lbs) 5 443 kg (12,000 lbs)

4WD 6.0 L V8 3.08 2 676 kg (5,900 lbs) 5 443 kg (12,000 lbs)

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

Towing Equipment

Trailer Brakes

If a trailer is being towed that has
trailer brakes and the trailer brakes
are manually applied while driving
slower than 40 km/h (25 mph), the
vehicle may go into Auto Stop mode
even if the brakes are not being
pressed. Using the trailer brake
system manually can make the
hybrid vehicle perform as if the

brake pedal in the vehicle is being
pressed. The trailer brake operation
check will still work. If the trailer
brakes are manually applied for an
extended period of time, the
SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM
message comes on in the Driver
Information Center. The message
goes off after the trailer brakes have
been released. No other action is
necessary. For more information,
see “Towing Equipment” in the
owner manual.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

9-10 Driving and Operating

2 NOTES

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Vehicle Care 10-1

Vehicle Care

Vehicle Checks

Doing Your Own

Service Work . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . 10-1

Engine Compartment

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

Automatic Transmission

Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4

Drive Motor/Generator Control

Module (DMCM) Coolant
Surge Tank

Pressure Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

Drive Motor/Generator Control

Module (DMCM) Cooling

System . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . . 10-7

Battery .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10

Electrical System

High Voltage Devices and

Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . 10-11

Fuses and Circuit

Breakers . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. 10-12

Engine Compartment Fuse

Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

Jump Starting

Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14

Towing

Recreational Vehicle

Towing . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . . 10-18

Appearance Care

Exterior Care . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 10-22

Vehicle Checks

Doing Your Own Service Work

WARNING

{

Never try to do your own service
on hybrid components. You can
be injured and the vehicle can be
damaged if you try to do your own
service work. Service and repair
of these hybrid components
should only be performed by a
trained service technician with the
proper knowledge and tools.

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10-2 Vehicle Care

WARNING

{

It can be dangerous to work on
your vehicle if you do not have
the proper knowledge, service
manual, tools, or parts. Always
follow owner manual procedures
and consult the service manual
for your vehicle before doing any
service work.

If doing some of your own service
work, use the proper service
manual. It tells you much more
about how to service the vehicle
than this manual can. To order the
proper service manual, see “Service
Publications Ordering Information”
in the owner manual.

This vehicle has an airbag system.
Before attempting to do your own
service work, see “Airbag System
Check” in the owner manual.

Keep a record with all parts receipts
and list the mileage and the date of
any service work performed. See
“Maintenance Records” in the owner
manual.

Notice: Even small amounts of
contamination can cause damage
to vehicle systems. Do not allow
contaminants to contact the
fluids, reservoir caps,
or dipsticks.

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Engine Compartment Overview

Vehicle Care 10-3

6.0L V8 Engine

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10-4 Vehicle Care

A. See “Engine Air Cleaner/Filter”

in the owner manual.

B. Drive Motor/Generator Control

Module (DMCM). See Drive

Motor/Generator Control
Module (DMCM) Cooling
System on page 10‑7.

C. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of

View). See “Engine Oil” in the
owner manual.

D. Automatic Transmission Fluid

Dipstick. See Automatic

Transmission Fluid on
page 10‑4.

E. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See

“Brakes” in the owner manual.

F. See “Engine Compartment Fuse

Block” under Electrical System
in the owner manual.

G. Windshield Washer Fluid

Reservoir. See “Washer Fluid”
in the owner manual.

H. Hybrid Auxiliary Fuse Block

(Out of View). See Engine

Compartment Fuse Block on
page 10‑12.

I. DMCM Coolant Surge Tank

Pressure Cap. See Drive Motor/

Generator Control Module
(DMCM) Coolant Surge Tank
Pressure Cap on page 10‑7.

J. Engine Coolant Surge Tank

Pressure Cap. See “Engine
Coolant” in the owner manual.

K. Engine Oil Fill Cap (Out of

View). See “Engine Oil” in the
owner manual.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

When to Check and Change
Automatic Transmission Fluid

It is usually not necessary to check
the transmission fluid level. The only
reason for fluid loss is a
transmission leak or overheating the
transmission. If a small leak is
suspected, then use the following
checking procedures to check the
fluid level. However, if there is a
large leak, then it may be necessary

to have the vehicle towed to a
dealer and have it repaired before
driving the vehicle further.

Notice: Use of the incorrect
automatic transmission fluid may
damage the vehicle, and the
damages may not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Always use
the automatic transmission fluid
listed in Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 11‑1.

Change the fluid and filter at the
scheduled maintenance intervals.
See “Scheduled Maintenance” in the
owner manual. Be sure to use the
transmission fluid listed in

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑1.

How to Check Automatic
Transmission Fluid

Notice: Too much or too little
fluid can damage the
transmission. Too much can
mean that some of the fluid could
come out and fall on hot engine
parts or exhaust system parts,
starting a fire. Too little fluid

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Vehicle Care 10-5

could cause the transmission to
overheat. Be sure to get an
accurate reading if checking the
transmission fluid.

Before checking the fluid level,
prepare the vehicle as follows:

1. Start the engine and park the
vehicle on a level surface. Keep
the engine running.

2. Apply the parking brake and
place the shift lever in P (Park).

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

4. Allow the engine to idle (500–
800 RPM) for at least
one minute. Slowly release the
brake pedal.

5. Keep the engine running and
press the Trip/Fuel button or trip
odometer reset stem until

TRANS TEMP (Transmission
Temperature) displays on the
Driver Information Center (DIC).

6. Using the TRANS TEMP
reading, determine and perform
the appropriate check
procedure. If the TRANS TEMP
reading is not within the required
temperature ranges, allow the
vehicle to cool, or operate the
vehicle until the appropriate
transmission fluid temperature is
reached.

Cold Check Procedure

Use this procedure only as a
reference to determine if the
transmission has enough fluid to be
operated safely until a hot check
procedure can be made. The hot
check procedure is the most
accurate method to check the fluid
level. Perform the hot check
procedure at the first opportunity.
Use this cold check procedure to
check fluid level when the

transmission temperature is
between 24°C and 34°C (75°F
and 93°F).

1. Locate the transmission dipstick
at the rear of the engine
compartment, on the passenger
side of the vehicle.

See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 10‑3 for more
information.

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

3. Install the dipstick by pushing it
back in all the way, wait
three seconds, and then pull it
back out again.

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10-6 Vehicle Care

4. Check both sides of the dipstick
and read the lower level. Repeat
the check procedure to verify the
reading.

5. If the fluid level is below the
COLD check band, add only
enough fluid as necessary to
bring the level into the COLD
band. It does not take much
fluid, generally less than 0.5 Liter
(1 Pint). Do not overfill.

6. Perform a hot check at the first
opportunity after the
transmission reaches a normal
operating temperature between
60°C and 75°C (140°F
and 167°F).

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

Hot Check Procedure

Use this procedure to check the
transmission fluid level when the
transmission fluid temperature is
between 60°C and 75°C (140°F
and 167°F).

The hot check is the most accurate
method to check the fluid level. The
hot check should be performed at
the first opportunity in order to verify
the cold check. The fluid level rises
as fluid temperature increases, so it
is important to ensure the
transmission temperature is within
range.

1. Locate the transmission dipstick
at the rear of the engine
compartment, on the passenger
side of the vehicle.

See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 10‑3 for more
information.

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

3. Install the dipstick by pushing it
back in all the way, wait
three seconds, and then pull it
back out again.

4. Check both sides of the dipstick
and read the lower level. Repeat
the check procedure to verify the
reading.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Vehicle Care 10-7

5. Safe operating level is within the
HOT cross hatch band on the
dipstick. If the fluid level is not
within the HOT band, and the
transmission temperature is
between 60°C and 75°C (140°F
and 167°F), add or drain fluid as
necessary to bring the level into
the HOT band. If the fluid level is
low, add only enough fluid to
bring the level into the HOT
band. It does not take much
fluid, generally less than 0.5 Liter
(1 Pint). Do not overfill.

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

Consistency of Readings

Always check the fluid level at least
twice using the procedure described
previously. Consistency (repeatable
readings) is important to maintaining
proper fluid level. If readings are still
inconsistent, contact your dealer.

Drive Motor/Generator Control Module (DMCM) Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap

See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10‑3 for more information

on location.

The Drive Motor/Generator Control
Module (DMCM) coolant surge tank
pressure cap must be fully installed
on the hybrid coolant surge tank.

Notice: If the pressure cap is not
tightly installed, coolant loss and
possible damage to the Drive
Motor/Generator Control
Module (DMCM) may occur. Be
sure the cap is properly and
tightly secured.

Drive Motor/Generator Control Module (DMCM) Cooling System

In addition to the regular cooling
system, the vehicle also has a
cooling system for the DMCM
system. This system is serviced
differently than the vehicle's main
cooling system. The DMCM cooling
system includes the DMCM coolant
surge tank, DMCM surge tank
pressure cap, DMCM cooling
pumps, hybrid cooling radiator and
the Drive Motor/Generator Control
Module (DMCM). The DMCM
cooling system uses a 50/50
pre-mixed DEX-COOL
deionized water available at your
dealer. See “Engine Coolant” and
“Cooling System” in the owner
manual for more information.

®

coolant and

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10-8 Vehicle Care

When it is safe to lift the hood:

A. Drive Motor/Generator Control

Module (DMCM)

B. Engine Coolant Surge Tank

Pressure Cap

C. DMCM Coolant Surge Tank/

Engine Coolant Surge Tank

D. DMCM Cooling Hoses (Out

of View)

E. DMCM Coolant Surge Tank

Pressure Cap

If the coolant inside the DMCM
coolant surge tank is boiling, do not
do anything else until it cools down.

The coolant level should be at or
above the FULL COLD mark with
the vehicle parked on a level
surface. If it is not, there might be a
leak at the DMCM cooler core,
DMCM pressure cap, DMCM cooler
hoses, DMCM cooling pump or
somewhere else in the DMCM
cooling system.

Notice: Running the engine when
there is a leak in the hybrid
cooling system can cause the
hybrid cooling system to lose all
coolant and can damage the
system. Get any leak fixed before
you drive the vehicle or run the
engine.

How to Add Coolant to the
DMCM Coolant Surge Tank

If no problem has been found yet,
check to see if coolant is visible in
the DMCM coolant surge tank.
If coolant is visible, add pre‐mixed
DEX-COOL coolant, available at
your dealer, at the DMCM coolant
surge tank, but be sure the DMCM
cooling system, including the DMCM
coolant surge tank pressure cap, is
cool before you do it. Use the
procedure following.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Vehicle Care 10-9

WARNING

{

Steam and scalding liquids from a
hot cooling system can blow out
and burn you badly. They are
under pressure, and if you turn
the coolant surge tank pressure
cap — even a little — they can
come out at high speed. Never
turn the cap when the cooling
system, including the coolant
surge tank pressure cap, is hot.
Wait for the cooling system and
coolant surge tank pressure cap
to cool if you ever have to turn
the pressure cap.

Notice: Using coolant other than
a pre‐mixed DEX-COOL, available
at your dealer, may damage your
vehicle. Any repairs would not be
covered by your warranty. Always
use a pre‐mixed DEX-COOL
(silicate-free) coolant in your
vehicle.

You can be burned if you spill
coolant on hot engine parts.
Coolant contains ethylene glycol
and it will burn if the engine parts
are hot enough. Do not spill
coolant on a hot engine.

If the DMCM coolant is empty, the
vehicle must be serviced by your
dealer and a special fill procedure
must be followed.

Notice: Attempting to fill the
DMCM cooling surge tank
yourself when the fluid level is
empty can damage your vehicle.
Your vehicle must be serviced.

{

WARNING

1. Park the vehicle on a level
surface and turn the vehicle off.
Remove the DMCM coolant
surge tank pressure cap when
the DMCM cooling system,
including the DMCM coolant
surge tank pressure cap and
DMCM cooling hoses, are no
longer hot. Turn the DMCM
coolant surge tank pressure cap
slowly counterclockwise (left)
about one full turn. Wait
30 seconds.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

10-10 Vehicle Care

2. Then keep turning the DMCM
coolant surge tank pressure cap
slowly, and remove it.

3. Add the pre‐mixed DEX‐COOL,
available at your dealer, to the
DMCM coolant surge tank until
the level reaches the FULL
COLD mark.

4. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN
without starting the engine. The
hybrid cooling pumps will run
and any trapped air will purge to
the surge tank.

5. Add the pre‐mixed DEX‐COOL,
available at your dealer, until the
coolant level is maintained at the
FULL COLD mark. This should
take no longer than two minutes
of hybrid cooling pump
operation.

If the level cannot be kept at the
FULL COLD level, the vehicle
may need service. See your
dealer.

6. Then replace the DMCM coolant
surge tank pressure cap. Be
sure the pressure cap is
hand-tight and fully seated.

Notice: Using tap water, cooling
system sealers or conditioners in
an attempt to stop coolant leaks
can damage the DMCM and
engine cooling systems. Never
use tap water, cooling system
sealers or conditioners in your
cooling system.

Battery

This vehicle has a standard 12‐volt
battery and a high voltage hybrid
battery.

Refer to the replacement number on
the original battery label when a
new standard 12‐volt battery is
needed.

Only a trained service technician
with the proper knowledge and tools
should inspect, test, or replace the
hybrid battery. See your dealer if the
hybrid battery needs service. The
dealer has information on how to
recycle the hybrid battery. There is
also information available at http://
www.recyclemybattery.com.

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Vehicle Care 10-11

If an airbag inflates or the vehicle
has been in a crash, the vehicle's
sensing system might command the
automatic hybrid battery disconnect
to open. See Replacing Airbag

System Parts after a Crash on
page 3‑1 for more information.

WARNING

{

Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds, chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

Vehicle Storage

WARNING

{

Batteries have acid that can burn
you and gas that can explode.
You can be badly hurt if you are
not careful. See Jump Starting on
page 10‑14 for tips on working
around a battery without
getting hurt.

Infrequent Usage: Remove the
12‐volt battery black, negative (−)
cable from the battery to keep the
battery from running down.

Extended Storage: Remove the
12‐volt battery black, negative (−)
cable from the battery or use a
battery trickle charger.

Remember to reconnect the battery
when ready to drive the vehicle.

Electrical System

High Voltage Devices and Wiring

WARNING

{

Exposure to high voltage can
cause shock, burns, and even
death. The high voltage
components in the vehicle can
only be serviced by technicians
with special training.

High voltage components are
identified by labels. Do not
remove, open, take apart,
or modify these components.
High voltage cable or wiring has
orange covering. Do not probe,
tamper with, cut, or modify high
voltage cable or wiring.

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10-12 Vehicle Care

Fuses and Circuit Breakers

The wiring circuits in the vehicle are
protected from short circuits by a
combination of fuses, circuit
breakers and fusible thermal links.
This greatly reduces the chance of
fires caused by electrical problems.

Be sure you replace a bad fuse with
a new one of the identical size and
rating.

If you ever have a problem on the
road and do not have a spare fuse,
you can borrow one that has the
same amperage. Just pick some
feature of the vehicle that you can
get along without, like the radio or
accessory power outlet, and use its
fuse, if it is the correct amperage.
Replace it as soon as you can.

The vehicle also has a special fuse
in the battery box for the 300-volt
batteries. If this fuse has failed and
needs to be replaced, the vehicle
will be disabled and you will need to
have the vehicle repaired by your
dealer. Do not attempt to
self-service this fuse.

Engine Compartment Fuse Block

Hybrid Auxiliary Engine
Compartment Fuse Block

The hybrid auxiliary engine
compartment fuse block is located
in the engine compartment near the
front of the vehicle. Lift the cover for
access to the fuse/relay block. See

Engine Compartment Overview on
page 10‑3 for more information on

its location. For more information on
the main underhood fuse block, see
“Engine Compartment Fuse Block”
in the owner manual.

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Fuses Usage

1 ACPO (SUV Only)

2 BECM FAN

3 ACCM

4 CAB HTR PMP

Fuses Usage

5 EMPTY

6 COOL PUMP

7 EPS

8

Drive Motor/Generator

Control Module 1

Vehicle Care 10-13

Fuses Usage

9

10 BECM

J‐Case Usage

FAN 1 Cooling Fan 1

TRANS

PUMP

FAN 2 Cooling Fan 2

Relays Usage

CAB
HTR

PUMP

COOL
PUMP

FAN LO

FAN

MID 1

Drive Motor/Generator

Control Module 2

Auxiliary

Transmission

Fluid Pump

Cabin Heater Pump

Coolant Pump

Cooling Fan Low

Speed Relay

Cooling Fan Mid 1

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

10-14 Vehicle Care

Relays Usage

FAN HI

FAN

MID 2

FAN

CNTRL

Cooling Fan High

Speed Relay

Cooling Fan Mid 2

Cooling Fan Control

Jump Starting

{

Personal injury, death, or damage
to the vehicle can result if you try
jump starting or using a battery
charger on the high voltage
hybrid battery. Use only the
12-volt battery for jump starting
and charging.

For more information about the
vehicle's batteries, see Battery on
page 10‑10.

If the vehicle's 12‐volt battery has
run down, you may want to use
another vehicle and some jumper
cables to start your vehicle. Use the
following steps to do it safely.

WARNING

WARNING

{

Batteries can hurt you. They can
be dangerous because:

.

They contain acid that can
burn you.

.

They contain gas that can
explode or ignite.

.

They contain enough
electricity to burn you.

If you do not follow these steps
exactly, some or all of these
things can hurt you.

Notice: Ignoring these steps
could result in costly damage to
the vehicle that would not be
covered by the warranty.

Trying to start the vehicle by
pushing or pulling it will not
work, and it could damage the
vehicle.

1. Check the other vehicle. It must
have a 12‐volt battery with a
negative ground system.

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Vehicle Care 10-15

Notice: Only use a vehicle that
has a 12-volt system with a
negative ground for jump
starting. If the other vehicle does
not have a 12-volt system with a
negative ground, both vehicles
can be damaged.

2. Get the vehicles close enough
so the jumper cables can reach,
but be sure the vehicles are not
touching each other. It could
cause a ground connection you
do not want. You would not be
able to start your vehicle, and
the bad grounding could damage
the electrical systems.

To avoid the possibility of the
vehicles rolling, set the parking
brake firmly on both vehicles
involved in the jump start
procedure. Put the automatic
transmission in P (Park) or a
manual transmission in
N (Neutral) before setting the
parking brake. If you have a
four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure
the transfer case is in a drive
gear, not in N (Neutral).

Notice: If any accessories are left
on or plugged in during the jump
starting procedure, they could be
damaged. The repairs would not
be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Whenever possible,
turn off or unplug all accessories
on either vehicle when jump
starting the vehicle.

3. Turn off the ignition on both
vehicles. Unplug unnecessary
accessories plugged into the
accessory power outlets. Turn
off the radio and all the lamps
that are not needed.

This avoids sparks and helps
save both batteries. It could
save the radio!

4. Open the hood on the other
vehicle and locate the
positive (+) and negative (−)
terminal locations on that
vehicle.

The positive (+) connection is
located under a red plastic cover
at the positive battery post. To
uncover the remote positive (+)
terminal, open the red plastic
cover.

5. The remote negative (−) is a
solid engine ground.

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10-16 Vehicle Care

WARNING

{

An electric fan can start up even
when the engine is not running
and can injure you. Keep hands,
clothing and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.

WARNING

{

Using an open flame near a
battery can cause battery gas to
explode. People have been hurt
doing this, and some have been
blinded. Use a flashlight if you
need more light.

Be sure the battery has enough
water. You do not need to add
water to the battery installed in
your new vehicle. But if a battery
has filler caps, be sure the right
amount of fluid is there. If it is low,

(Continued)

WARNING (CONTINUED)

add water to take care of that
first. If you do not, explosive gas
could be present.

Battery fluid contains acid that
can burn you. Do not get it on
you. If you accidentally get it in
your eyes or on your skin, flush
the place with water and get
medical help immediately.

WARNING

{

Fans or other moving engine
parts can injure you badly. Keep
your hands away from moving
parts once the engine is running.

6. Check that the jumper cables do
not have loose or missing
insulation. If they do, you could
get a shock. The vehicles could
be damaged too.

Before you connect the cables,
here are some basic things you
should know. Positive (+) goes to
positive (+) or to a remote
positive (+) terminal if the vehicle
has one. Negative (−) will go to a
heavy, unpainted metal engine
part or a solid engine ground.

Do not connect positive (+) to
negative (−) or you will get a
short that would damage the
battery and maybe other parts
too. Do not connect the
negative (−) cable to the
negative (−) terminal on the dead
battery because this can cause
sparks.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Vehicle Care 10-17

7. Connect the red positive (+)
cable to the positive (+) terminal
of the vehicle with the dead
battery. Use a remote
positive (+) if the vehicle
has one.

8. Do not let the other end touch
metal. Connect it to the
positive (+) terminal of the good
battery. Use a remote
positive (+) if the vehicle
has one.

9. Now connect the black
negative (−) cable to the
negative (−) terminal of the good
battery. Use a remote
negative (−) if the vehicle
has one.

Do not let the other end touch
anything until the next step. The
other end of the negative (−)
cable does not go to the dead
battery. It goes to a heavy,
unpainted metal engine part or
to the remote negative (−)
terminal on the vehicle with the
dead battery.

10. Connect the other end of the
negative (−) cable to the
remote negative (−) terminal,
on the vehicle with the dead
battery.

11. Now start the vehicle with the
good battery and run the
engine for a while.

12. Try to start the vehicle that had
the dead battery. If it will not
start after a few tries, it
probably needs service.

Notice: If the jumper cables are
connected or removed in the
wrong order, electrical shorting
may occur and damage the
vehicle. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always connect and remove the
jumper cables in the correct
order, making sure that the
cables do not touch each other or
other metal.

Jumper Cable Removal

A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine

Part or Remote Negative (−)
Terminal

B. Good Battery or Remote

Positive (+) and Remote
Negative (−) Terminals

C. Dead Battery or Remote

Positive (+) Terminal

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10-18 Vehicle Care

To disconnect the jumper cables
from both vehicles:

1. Disconnect the black
negative (−) cable from the
vehicle that had the bad battery.

2. Disconnect the black
negative (−) cable from the
vehicle with the good battery.

3. Disconnect the red positive (+)
cable from the vehicle with the
good battery.

4. Disconnect the red positive (+)
cable from the other vehicle.

5. Return the remote positive (+)
terminal cover to its original
position.

Towing

Recreational Vehicle Towing

Recreational vehicle towing means
towing the vehicle behind another
vehicle – such as behind a
motorhome. The two most common
types of recreational vehicle towing
are known as dinghy towing and
dolly towing. Dinghy towing is
towing the vehicle with all four
wheels on the ground. Dolly towing
is towing the vehicle with two
wheels on the ground and two
wheels up on a device known as a
dolly.

Here are some important things to
consider before recreational vehicle
towing:

.

What is the towing capacity of
the towing vehicle? Be sure to
read the tow vehicle
manufacturer's
recommendations.

.

What is the distance that will be
travelled? Some vehicles have
restrictions on how far and how
long they can tow.

.

Is the proper towing equipment
going to be used? See your
dealer or trailering professional
for additional advice and
equipment recommendations.

.

Is the vehicle ready to be
towed? Just as preparing the
vehicle for a long trip, make sure
the vehicle is prepared to be
towed.

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Vehicle Care 10-19

Dinghy Towing

Two-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Notice: If the vehicle is towed
with all four wheels on the
ground, the drivetrain
components could be damaged.
The repairs would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty. Do not
tow the vehicle with all four
wheels on the ground.

Two-wheel drive vehicles should not
be towed with all four wheels on the
ground. Two-wheel drive

transmissions have no provisions
for internal lubrication while being
towed.

Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Use the following procedure to
dinghy tow a four-wheel drive
vehicle:

1. Position the vehicle being towed
behind the tow vehicle and shift
the transmission to P (Park).

2. Turn the engine off and firmly set
the parking brake. See “Parking
Brake” in the owner manual.

3. Securely attach the vehicle
being towed to the tow vehicle.

WARNING

{

Shifting a four-wheel-drive
vehicle's transfer case into
N (Neutral) can cause the vehicle
to roll even if the transmission is
in P (Park). The driver or others
could be injured. Make sure the
parking brake is firmly set before
the transfer case is shifted to
N (Neutral).

4. Shift the transfer case to
N (Neutral). For more information
on “Shifting into N (Neutral)”, see
“Four-Wheel Drive” in the owner
manual.

5. Release the parking brake only
after the vehicle being towed is
firmly attached to the towing
vehicle.

6. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF
and remove the key — the
steering wheel will still turn.

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10-20 Vehicle Care

Dolly Towing – Front Towing
(Front Wheels Off the Ground)

Two-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Notice: If a two-wheel drive
vehicle is towed with the rear
wheels on the ground, the
transmission could be damaged.
The repairs would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty. Never
tow the vehicle with the rear
wheels on the ground.

Two-wheel drive vehicles should not
be towed with the rear wheels on
the ground. Two-wheel drive
transmissions have no provisions
for internal lubrication while being
towed.

To dolly tow a two‐wheel drive
vehicle, the vehicle must be towed
with the rear wheels on the dolly.
See “Dolly Towing — Rear Towing
(Rear Wheels Off the Ground)” in
this section for more information.

Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Use the following procedure to dolly
tow a four-wheel drive vehicle from
the front:

1. Attach the dolly to the tow
vehicle following the dolly
manufacturer's instructions.

2. Drive the front wheels onto the
dolly.

3. Shift the transmission to
P (Park).

4. Firmly set the parking brake.
See “Parking Brake” in the
owner manual.

WARNING

{

Shifting a four-wheel-drive
vehicle's transfer case into
N (Neutral) can cause the vehicle
to roll even if the transmission is
in P (Park). The driver or others
could be injured. Make sure the
parking brake is firmly set before
the transfer case is shifted to
N (Neutral).

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

Vehicle Care 10-21

5. Shift the transfer case to
N (Neutral). For more information
on “Shifting into N (Neutral)”, see
“Four-Wheel Drive” in the owner
manual.

6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly
following the manufacturer's
instructions.

7. Release the parking brake only
after the vehicle being towed is
firmly attached to the towing
vehicle.

8. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

After towing, see “Shifting Out of
N (Neutral)” under “Four-Wheel
Drive” in the owner manual.

Dolly Towing – Rear Towing
(Rear Wheels Off the Ground)

Two‐Wheel Drive Vehicles

Use the following procedure to dolly
tow a two-wheel drive vehicle from
the rear:

1. Attach the dolly to the tow
vehicle following the dolly
manufacturer's instructions.

2. Drive the rear wheels onto the
dolly.

3. Firmly set the parking brake.
See “Parking Brake” in the
owner manual.

4. Put the transmission in P (Park).

5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly
following the manufacturer's
instructions.

6. Use an adequate clamping
device designed for towing to
ensure that the front wheels are
locked into the straight position.

7. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

Four‐Wheel Drive Vehicles

Use the following procedure to dolly
tow a four-wheel drive vehicle from
the rear:

1. Attach the dolly to the tow
vehicle following the dolly
manufacturer's instructions.

2. Drive the rear wheels onto the
dolly.

3. Firmly set the parking brake.
See “Parking Brake” in the
owner manual.

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Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra Hybrid - 2013 - crc 1st edition - 5/25/12

10-22 Vehicle Care

4. Put the transmission in P (Park).

5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly
following the manufacturer's
instructions.

6. Use an adequate clamping
device designed for towing to
ensure that the front wheels are
locked into the straight position.

WARNING

{

Shifting a four-wheel-drive
vehicle's transfer case into
N (Neutral) can cause the vehicle
to roll even if the transmission is
in P (Park). The driver or others
could be injured. Make sure the
parking brake is firmly set before
the transfer case is shifted to
N (Neutral).

7. Shift the transfer case to
N (Neutral). For more information
on “Shifting into N (Neutral)”, see
“Four-Wheel Drive” in the owner
manual.

8. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

After towing, see “Shifting Out of
N (Neutral)” under “Four-Wheel
Drive” in the owner manual.

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

When scraping the windshield glass
to remove ice and snow, stay clear
of the hybrid decal.

To have the hybrid decals removed
from the vehicle, please see your
dealer.

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Service and Maintenance 11-1

Service and Maintenance

Recommended Fluids

Recommended Fluids and Lubricants

Recommended Fluids

Recommended Fluids and

Lubricants . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 11-1

Fluids identified below are specific
to the hybrid vehicle and can be
obtained from your dealer. See the
owner manual for the other fluids
and lubricants recommended for the
vehicle.

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11-2 Service and Maintenance

Usage Fluid/Lubricant

Drive Motor/Generator Control

Module (DMCM) Cooling System

Transfer Case DEXRON®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Always use the pre-mixed 50/50 mixture of de-ionized water and
DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant available at your dealer. See Drive
Motor/Generator Control Module (DMCM) Cooling System on page 10‑7.

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Technical Data

Vehicle Data

Capacities and

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2

Engine Drive Belt Routing . . . 12-3

Technical Data 12-1

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12-2 Technical Data

Vehicle Data

Capacities and Specifications

Application

Automatic Transmission* (Pan Removal and Filter
Replacement)

Cooling System

Drive Motor Generator Control Module Cooling
System

6.0L V8 Engine Cooling System 16.3 L 17.2 qt

Fuel Tank 98.4 L 26.0 gal

*See Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 10‑4 for information on checking fluid level.

All capacities are approximate. Recheck fluid level after filling.

Metric English

10.9 L 11.5 qt

2.7 L 2.9 qt

Engine Specifications

Engine VIN Code Transmission Spark Plug Gap

6.0L V8 J Automatic 1.02 mm (0.040 in)

Capacities

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Engine Drive Belt Routing

Technical Data 12-3

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12-4 Technical Data

2 NOTES

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INDEX i-1

A

Antilock Brake System (ABS)

Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Appearance Care

Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22

Automatic

Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

Transmission Fluid . . . . . .. . . . .10-4

Automatic Transmission

Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

B

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10

Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14

Voltage and Charging

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Brake

System Warning Light . . . . . . . .. 5-7

Brakes

Regenerative Braking . . . . . . . . . . 9-8

System Messages . . . . . . . . . .. .5-10

Canadian Vehicle Owners . . . . . . . . .ii

Capacities and

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2

Charging System Light . .. . . . . . . 5-6

Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

Cleaning

Exterior Care . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 10-22

Climate Control Systems . . . . . . . 8-1

Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

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

Coolant

Engine Temperature Gauge . . . 5-6
Coolant Surge Tank

Pressure Cap, (DMCM) . . . . . . 10-7

Cooling System, (DMCM) .. . . . . 10-7

Cover

Tonneau . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 4-1, 4-6

C

D

Door

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

Drive Belt Routing, Engine . .. . . 12-3

Drive Motor/Generator

Control Module (DMCM)

Coolant Surge Tank

Pressure Cap . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

Drive Motor/Generator

Control Module (DMCM)

Cooling System . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 10-7

Driver Information

Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

E

Electrical System

Engine Compartment

Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

Fuses and Circuit

Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

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i-2 INDEX

Engine

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

Coolant Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

Coolant Temperature Gauge .. . 5-6

Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . .12-3

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

Oil Pressure Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-9

Running While Parked . . . . . . . . . 9-4

Equipment, Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9

F

Fluid

Automatic Transmission . . . . . . 10-4

Fuel

Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 5-3

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

Fuses

Engine Compartment

Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

Fuses and Circuit

Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

G

Gauges

Engine Coolant

Temperature . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Engine Oil Pressure . . . . .. . . . . . 5-5

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-3

Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Tachometer . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

H

Heater

Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 9-3

Heating and Air Conditioning . . . 8-1
High Voltage Devices and

Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

I

Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 7-1

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

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .ii

J

Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14

L

Lights

Antilock Brake System

(ABS) Warning . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 5-7

Brake System Warning . . . . .. . . 5-7

Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Engine Oil Pressure . . . . .. . . . . . 5-9

StabiliTrak
Traction Control System

(TCS)/StabiliTrak

®

OFF . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 5-8

®

. . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

M

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended Fluids and

Lubricants .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

Messages

Battery Voltage and

Charging . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .5-10

Brake System . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .5-10

Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

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INDEX i-3

Messages (cont'd)

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

Service Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Vehicle . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

O

Oil

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge . . .. 5-5

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

Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-9

R

Rear Seats . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Recommended Fluids and

Lubricants .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 11-1

Recreational Vehicle

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 10-18

Regenerative Braking . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8

Replacement Parts

Airbags . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Replacing Airbag System . . . . . . . 3-1

Routing, Engine Drive Belt . .. . . 12-3

Running the Vehicle While

Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

S

Seats

Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Service

Doing Your Own Work . . . . . . . .10-1

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

Specifications and

Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2

StabiliTrak

OFF Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Starting the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Steering . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Supplement

Using . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . ii

System

Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 7-1

T

Tachometer . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Tonneau Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1, 4-6

Towing

Equipment . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9

Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . 10-18

Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8

Traction

Control System (TCS)/

StabiliTrak

Trailer

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 9-8

Transmission

Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

Fluid, Automatic . . . .. . . . . . . . . .10-4

®

Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

U

Using This Supplement . . . . . . . . . . . . ii

V

Vehicle

Canadian Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii

Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Voltage Devices and

Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

W

Warning

Brake System Light . . . . . . . . .. . . 5-7

Wiring, High Voltage

Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 10-11

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i-4 INDEX

2 NOTES