warning light GMC C-SERIES 1999 Owner's Manual

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4-24
Winter Driving
Here are some tips for winter driving:

Be sure the vehicle is in good shape for winter.

You may want to put winter emergency supplies in
your vehicle.Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply
of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer
clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and
reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving
under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a
piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help
provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these
items in your vehicle.
Driving on Snow or Ice
Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the
road probably have good traction.
However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and
the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You'll
have a lot less traction or ªgripº and will need to be
very careful.
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5-3 Hazard Warning Flasher Switch
(If Equipped)
With some options, such as U86-trailer wiring or
RQ3
-tractor application, you will have this switch.
This switch replaces the hazard switch mounted on the
steering column. It is mounted in the instrument panel,
usually to the left of and below the steering column.
Pull the switch out to make your front and rear turn
signal lamps flash on and off. A light next to the switch
will also flash. Push it back in to turn off the flashers.
The turn signal lamps won't flash if you're braking.
This switch works no matter what position the key is in,
and even if the key isn't in the ignition.
When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn
signals won't work.
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5-18
Engine Overheating
You will find a coolant temperature warning gage on
your vehicle's instrument panel, as well as a LOW
COOLANT warning light. Your vehicle also has a
CHECK GAGES warning light on the instrument panel.
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
CAUTION:
Steam from an overheated engine can burn you
badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away
from the engine if you see or hear steam coming
from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away
from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until
there is no sign of steam or coolant before you
open the hood.
If you keep driving when your engine is
overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or
others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if
it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the
engine is cool.
NOTICE:
If your engine catches fire because you keep
driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be
badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be
covered by your warranty.
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6-16 Engine Oil Additives
Don't add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to
advise if you think something should be added.
When to Change Engine Oil
Your vehicle has a computer that lets you know when to
change your engine oil. This is not based on mileage,
but on engine revolutions and engine operating
temperature. When the computer has calculated that the
oil needs changing, the Oil Life Monitor will indicate
that a change is necessary. The mileage between oil
changes will vary depending on how you drive your
vehicle
-- usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and
7,500 miles (12 500 km) since your last oil change.
Under severe conditions, the indicator may come on
before 3,000 miles (5 000 km). Never drive your vehicle
more than 7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 12 months
(whichever occurs first) without an oil change.
The system won't detect dust in the oil. So, if you
drive in a dusty area, be sure to change your oil every
3,000 miles (5 000 km) or sooner. Remember to reset
the CHANGE OIL light whenever the oil is changed.How to Reset the Oil Life Monitor
To reset the CHANGE OIL message, turn the ignition
key to RUN with the engine off. Fully press and release
the accelerator pedal three times within 10 seconds. If
the CHANGE OIL message flashes for five seconds, the
system is reset. If the message does not display for five
seconds, you will need to reset the system again.
What to Do with Used Oil
Did you know that used engine oil contains certain
elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could
even cause cancer? Don't let used oil stay on your skin
for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and
water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw
away clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (See
the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal
of oil products.)
Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you
change your own oil, be sure to drain all free
-flowing oil
from the filter before disposal. Don't ever dispose of oil
by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into
sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead,
recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If
you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil,
ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling
center for help.
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6-18
CAUTION:
Gasoline Engines Only: Operating the engine
with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or
others to be burned. The air cleaner not only
cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine
backfires. If it isn't there, and the engine
backfires, you could be burned. Don't drive with
it off, and be careful working on the engine with
the air cleaner/filter off.
NOTICE:
Gasoline Engines Only: If the air cleaner/filter is
off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire.
And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which
will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/filter
in place when you're driving.
Your vehicle may also be equipped with an optional
Filterminder gage. See ªWarning Lights, Gages and
Indicatorsº in the Index.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
When to Check
A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is
checked. See your Allison Automatic Transmission
Operator's Manual to find out when to change your
transmission fluid and filters.
How to Check and What to Use
The Allison Automatic Transmission Operator's Manual
that came with the vehicle shows how to check the
automatic transmission fluid and what fluid to use.
NOTICE:
Too much or too little fluid can damage your
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. Be
sure to get an accurate reading if you check your
transmission fluid.
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6-23
Engine Coolant (Gasoline Engine)
The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with
DEX
-COOL
engine coolant. This coolant is designed
to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles
(240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only
DEX
-COOL
extended life coolant.
The following explains your cooling system and how to
add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with
engine overheating, see ªEngine Overheatingº in
the Index.
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX
-COOL
coolant will:

Give freezing protection down to
-34F (-37C).

Give boiling protection up to 252F (122C).

Protect against rust and corrosion.

Help keep the proper engine temperature.

Let the warning lights and gages work as
they should.
NOTICE:
When adding coolant, it is important that you
use only DEX
-COOL (silicate-free) coolant.
If coolant other than DEX-COOL is added to
the system, premature engine, heater core or
radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the
engine coolant will require change sooner
-- at
30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months,
whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the
use of coolant other than DEX
-COOL is not
covered by your new vehicle warranty.
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6-26
Surge Tank (Caterpillar
Diesel Engines)
When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at
the COLD level, or a little higher, on the coolant
recovery tank with the gasoline engine, or at the COLD
FULL mark, visible through the surge tank, with the
diesel engine.
If this light comes on and
stays on, it means you're
low on engine coolant.
See ªLights, Low Coolant Warning Lightº in the Index
for further information.
Adding Coolant
If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX
-COOL

coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank or the
surge tank.
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6-29 What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see
ªRecommended Fluids and Lubricantsº in the Index.
NOTICE:
When adding power steering fluid or making a
complete fluid change, always use the proper
fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause
leaks and damage hoses and seals.
If your power steering fluid level is low, this can
cause the PRIMARY BRAKE or AUX BRAKE
warning lights to come on. If either light remains
on after you have added power steering fluid to
the proper level, then shut off the engine for
10 seconds. This should reset the brake warning
lights. If one or both lights stay on, though,
then see ªHydraulic Brake Warning Lightsº in
the Index.
Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read
the manufacturer's instructions before use. If you will be
operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature
may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient
protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY.
Add washer fluid until the tank is full.
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7-26
Engine Cooling System Service
Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are
cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes,
fittings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside
of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help
ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling
system and pressure cap is recommended at least once
a year.
Exhaust System Check
Be alert for any changes in the sound of the exhaust
system or any smell of fumes. These are signs the
system may be leaking. Have it checked and/or repaired
at once. Refer to ªEngine Exhaustº and ªRunning Your
Engine While You're Parkedº in the Index.
Windshield Wipers and Washers Check
Check operation and condition of the wiper blades.
Check the flow of the washer spray.
Defroster Check
Move the control to the defrost symbol and the fan to HI
or the high symbol. Then check the airflow from the
ducts at the inside base of the windshield.Mirrors and Sun Visors Check
Check that friction joints hold mirrors and sun visors
in place.
Seat Adjuster Check
When adjusting a manual seat, be sure seat adjusters
latch by attempting to move the seat after latching.
Lamps Check
Check panel lighting, warning lights, indicator lights
and interior lamps. On the outside, check: license plate
lamps, sidemarker lamps, reflectors or lights on outside
mirrors, headlamps, parking lamps, identification and
clearance lamps, taillamps, brake lamps, turn signals,
backup lamps and hazard warning flashers. Have
headlamp aim checked at once if beams seem
improperly aimed.
Glass, Mirrors, Lamps and/or Reflectors
Condition Check
Look for broken, scratched, dirty or damaged glass,
mirrors, lamps or reflectors that could reduce the view
or visibility or cause injury. Replace, clean or
repair promptly.
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9-1
Section 9 Index
A
ir
Brake System Warning Light 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaner 6-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaner Filter 6-77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compressor Filter 6-77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conditioning 3-5, 6-77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conditioning Refrigerants 6-77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dryer 6-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filter Restriction Indicator 6-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suspension 2-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Brake Systems 6-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Dryer 6-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alcohol Injector 6-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Moisture Ejector 6-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alcohol Injector 6-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alignment and Balance, Tire 6-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AM-FM Stereo 3-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AM-FM Stereo with Remote Cassette Tape Player 3-10 . . . . .
Antenna 3-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Antifreeze 6-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-Lock
Brakes 4-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake System Warning Light 2-61, 4-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appearance Care 6-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appearance Care Materials 6-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Apply Park Brake Warning Light 2
-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ashtray 2-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Audio Systems 3-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Transmission Fluid 6-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Transmission Shift Indicator Check 7-25 . . . . . . . .
Auxiliary Power Jacks 2-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Axle, Rear 6-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airshift Control 2-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Differential Lock Control 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluid Capacity 6-76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shift Motor 6-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tw o-Speed Electric Shift Control 2-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing 5-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery 6-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery, Jump Starting 5-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake
Adjustment 6
-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Brake Systems 6-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Parking Brake 2-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric/Hydraulic Parking Brake 2-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric/Hydraulic Parking Brake Fluid 6-36 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust 2-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluid 6-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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