engine coolant CHEVROLET SUBURBAN 2009 Owner's Manual

If Steam Is Coming From The Engine
Compartment
{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. 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 the vehicles engine is
overheated, the liquids in it can catch re. You or
others could be badly burned. Stop the engine if it
overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the
engine is cool.
SeeOverheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
on page 5-37for information on driving to a safe
place in an emergency.
If No Steam Is Coming From The
Engine Compartment
The ENGINE OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE or the
ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE message, along
with a low coolant condition, can indicate a serious
problem.
If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam
can be seen or heard, the problem may not be too
serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot
when the vehicle:
Climbs a long hill on a hot day.
Stops after high-speed driving.
Idles for long periods in traffic.
Tows a trailer. SeeTowing a Trailer on page 4-50.
If the overheat warning is displayed with no sign of
steam:
1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and
to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as
necessary.
3. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in N (Neutral)
while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the
road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral) and let
the engine idle.
5-36

If the temperature overheat gage is no longer in the
overheat zone or an overheat warning no longer displays,
the vehicle can be driven. Continue to drive the vehicle
slow for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe vehicle distance
from the car in front of you. If the warning does not come
back on, continue to drive normally.
If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park the
vehicle right away.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine for
three minutes while parked. If the warning is still
displayed, turn off the engine until it cools down.
Also, see “Overheated Engine Protection Operating
Mode” later in this section.
Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode
If an overheated engine condition exists and the
ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED message is displayed,
an overheat protection mode which alternates ring
groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this
mode, you will notice a loss in power and engine
performance. This operating mode allows the vehicle to
be driven to a safe place in an emergency. Driving
extended miles (km) and/or towing a trailer in the
overheat protection mode should be avoided.Notice:After driving in the overheated engine
protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage,
allow the engine to cool before attempting any repair.
The engine oil will be severely degraded. Repair the
cause of coolant loss, change the oil and reset the oil
life system. SeeEngine Oil on page 5-15.
Engine Fan Noise
If the vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan, when the
clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster to provide more air
to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions,
the fan is spinning slower and the clutch is not fully
engaged. This improves fuel economy and reduces fan
noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing, and/or
high outside temperatures, the fan speed increases as
the clutch more fully engages, so you may hear an
increase in fan noise. This is normal and should not be
mistaken as the transmission slipping or making extra
shifts. It is merely the cooling system functioning properly.
The fan will slow down when additional cooling is not
required and the clutch disengages.
You may also hear this fan noise when you start the
engine. It will go away as the fan clutch partially
disengages.
5-37

What to Use
To determine what kind of uid to use, see
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
Always use the proper uid.
Notice:Use of the incorrect uid may damage the
vehicle and the damages may not be covered by
the vehicle’s warranty. Always use the correct uid
listed inRecommended Fluids and Lubricants on
page 6-13.
Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When windshield washer uid needs to be added, be
sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
Use a uid that has sufficient protection against freezing
in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
The vehicle has a low washer uid message in the DIC
that comes on when the washer uid is low. The message
is displayed for 15 seconds at the start of each ignition
cycle. When the WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID
message displays, you will need to add washer uid to
the windshield washer uid reservoir.Open the cap with the
washer symbol on it.
Add washer uid until the
tank is full. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview on
page 5-14for reservoir
location.
Notice:
When using concentrated washer uid, follow
the manufacturer’s instructions for adding
water.
Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer uid.
Water can cause the solution to freeze and
damage your washer uid tank and other parts
of the washer system. Also, water does not
clean as well as washer uid.
Fill the washer uid tank only three-quarters
full when it is very cold. This allows for uid
expansion if freezing occurs, which could
damage the tank if it is completely full.
Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your
windshield washer. It can damage the vehicle’s
windshield washer system and paint.
5-39

Scheduled Maintenance
Service MaintenanceIMaintenanceII
Change engine oil and lter. SeeEngine Oil on page 5-15. Reset oil life
system. SeeEngine Oil Life System on page 5-18.An Emission Control Service.••
Lubricate chassis components.See footnote #.••
Visually check for any leaks or damage.See footnote (j).••
Inspect engine air cleaner lter or change indicator (if equipped). If necessary,
replace lter. SeeEngine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-20.See footnote (l).•
Rotate tires and check ination pressures and wear. SeeTire Inspection and
Rotation on page 5-76and “Tire Wear Inspection” inAt Least Once a Month
on page 6-10.••
Inspect brake system.See footnote (a).••
Check engine coolant and windshield washer uid levels and add uid as
needed.••
Perform any needed additional services. See “Additional Required Services” in
this section.••
Inspect suspension and steering components.See footnote (b).•
Inspect engine cooling system.See footnote (c).•
Inspect wiper blades.See footnote (d).•
Inspect restraint system components.See footnote (e).•
Lubricate body components.See footnote (f).•
Check transmission uid level and add uid as needed.•
6-5

(f)Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood latch assembly,
secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release pawl,
rear compartment hinges, outer liftgate handle pivot
points, rear door detent link, roller mechanism, liftgate
handle pivot points, latch bolt, fuel door hinge, cargo
door hinge, locks, and folding seat hardware. More
frequent lubrication may be required when exposed to
a corrosive environment. Applying silicone grease
on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
(g)Check vent hose at transfer case for kinks and
proper installation. Check to be sure vent hose is
unobstructed, clear, and free of debris. During any
maintenance, if a power washer is used to clean mud
and dirt from the underbody, care should be taken to
not directly spray the transfer case output seals. High
pressure water can overcome the seals and contaminate
the transfer case fluid. Contaminated fluid will decrease
the life of the transfer case and should be replaced.
(h)Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the
vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these
conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
In hilly or mountainous terrain.When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.
(i)Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service
can be complex; you should have your dealer/retailer
perform this service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-29
for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator,
condenser, pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure
test the cooling system and pressure cap.
(j)A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and
the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed.
(k)Inspect system. Check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper hook-up, routing, and condition.
Check that the purge valve works properly, if equipped.
Replace as needed.
(l)If driving regularly under dusty conditions, inspect the
filter at each engine oil change.
(m)Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or
obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
(n)Severe Service: Change transfer case fluid if the
vehicle is mainly used for trailer towing or driven in city
traffic, wet environment, or high ambient temperatures.
6-9

Owner Checks and Services
These owner checks and services should be performed
at the intervals specied to help ensure vehicle safety,
dependability, and emission control performance. Your
dealer/retailer can assist with these checks and services.
Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Whenever any uids or lubricants are added to the
vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown
inRecommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
At Each Fuel Fill
It is important to perform these underhood checks at
each fuel fill.
Engine Oil Level Check
Notice:It is important to check the engine oil
regularly and keep it at the proper level. Failure to
keep the engine oil at the proper level can cause
damage to the engine not covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if
necessary. SeeEngine Oil on page 5-15.
Engine Coolant Level Check
Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL®
coolant mixture if necessary. SeeEngine Coolant
on page 5-29.
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
Check the windshield washer uid level in the
windshield washer uid reservoir and add the proper
uid if necessary.
At Least Once a Month
Tire Ination Check
Inspect the vehicle’s tires and make sure they are
inated to the correct pressures. Do not forget to check
the spare tire, if the vehicle has one. SeeInflation - Tire
Pressure on page 5-70. If the vehicle has a spare tire,
check to make sure it is stored securely. SeeChanging
a Flat Tire on page 5-86.
Tire Wear Inspection
Tire rotation may be required for high mileage highway
drivers prior to the Engine Oil Life System service
notication. Check the tires for wear and, if necessary,
rotate the tires. SeeTire Inspection and Rotation on
page 5-76.
6-10

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identied below by name, part
number, or specication can be obtained from your
dealer/retailer.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Engine OilEngine oil which meets GM
Standard GM6094M and displays
the American Petroleum Institute
Certied for Gasoline Engines
starburst symbol. To determine the
proper viscosity for your vehicle’s
engine, seeEngine Oil on page 5-15.
Engine Coolant50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only DEX-COOL
®
Coolant. SeeEngine Coolant on
page 5-29.
Hydraulic Brake
SystemDOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
(GM Part No. U.S. 12377967,
in Canada 89021320).
Windshield
WasherOptikleen
®Washer Solvent.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Power Steering
SystemGM Power Steering Fluid
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021184,
in Canada 89021186).
Automatic
TransmissionDEXRON
®-VI Automatic
Transmission Fluid.
Key Lock
CylindersMulti-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241,
in Canada 10953474).
Chassis
LubricationChassis Lubricant
(GM Part No. U.S. 12377985, in
Canada 88901242) or lubricant
meeting requirements of NLGI #2,
Category LB or GC-LB.
Front Axle
(1500 Series
Vehicles with
Four-Wheel
Drive)SAE 80W-90 Axle Lubricant
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021671,
in Canada 89021672).
Front Axle
(2500 Series
Vehicles with
Four-Wheel
Drive)SAE 75W-90 Synthetic
Axle Lubricant
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021677, in
Canada 89021678) meeting GM
Specication 9986115.
6-13

Climate Control System...................................3-22
Dual Automatic............................................3-24
Outlet Adjustment........................................3-30
Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System......3-31
Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System,
Electronic................................................3-32
Clock, Setting.................................................3-84
Collision Damage Repair..................................7-11
Compass.......................................................3-61
Content Theft-Deterrent....................................2-22
Control of a Vehicle.......................................... 4-3
Coolant
Engine.......................................................5-29
Engine Temperature Gage............................3-42
Surge Tank Pressure Cap.............................5-34
Cooled Seats................................................... 1-8
Cooling System..............................................5-28
Courtesy Transportation Program......................7-10
Cruise Control................................................3-12
Light..........................................................3-49
Cupholders....................................................2-78
Customer Assistance......................................... 7-6
Offices......................................................... 7-6
Text Telephone (TTY) Users........................... 7-6
Customer Information
Service Publications Ordering Information........7-15
Customer Satisfaction Procedure........................ 7-2D
Damage Repair, Collision.................................7-11
Data Recorders
Event.........................................................7-17
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL).........................3-16
Defensive Driving............................................. 4-2
Delayed Locking.............................................2-11
DIC Compass.................................................3-61
Disc, MP3..........................................3-105, 3-109
Doing Your Own Service Work........................... 5-4
Dome Lamp Override......................................3-19
Dome Lamps .................................................3-18
Door
Delayed Locking..........................................2-11
Locks........................................................2-10
Power Locks...............................................2-10
Programmable Automatic Door Locks.............2-11
Rear Door Security Locks.............................2-11
Driver Information Center (DIC).........................3-51
DIC Operation and Displays..................3-52, 3-58
DIC Vehicle Customization............................3-74
DIC Warnings and Messages........................3-64
Driving
At Night.....................................................4-25
Before a Long Trip......................................4-27
Better Fuel Economy..................................... 4-2
4

Driving (cont.)
Defensive..................................................... 4-2
Drunk.......................................................... 4-3
Highway Hypnosis.......................................4-27
Hill and Mountain Roads..............................4-28
In Rain and on Wet Roads...........................4-26
Loss of Control...........................................4-11
Off-Road ....................................................4-13
Off-Road Recovery......................................4-11
Recovery Hooks..........................................4-32
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get it Out.................4-32
Winter........................................................4-29
Dual Automatic Climate Control System.............3-24
DVD
Rear Seat Entertainment System..................3-127
E
E85 Fuel......................................................... 5-7
EDR .............................................................7-16
Electrical Equipment
Add-On Equipment.....................................5-114
Electrical System
Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block.............5-118
Fuses and Circuit Breakers.........................5-115
Instrument Panel Fuse Block.......................5-116
Power Windows and Other Power Options....5-115
Underhood Fuse Block...............................5-119Electrical System (cont.)
Windshield Wiper Fuses.............................5-115
Electronic Immobilizer
PASS-Key
®III+...........................................2-24
Electronic Immobilizer Operation
PASS-Key
®III+...........................................2-24
Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter.........................................5-20
Check and Service Engine Soon Lamp...........3-43
Compartment Overview................................5-14
Coolant......................................................5-29
Coolant Heater............................................2-30
Coolant Temperature Gage...........................3-42
Cooling System...........................................5-28
Drive Belt Routing.......................................6-16
Exhaust.....................................................2-50
Fan Noise..................................................5-37
Oil .............................................................5-15
Overheated Protection Operating Mode...........5-37
Overheating................................................5-35
Starting......................................................2-28
Engine Oil
Life System................................................5-18
Entry Lighting.................................................3-19
Event Data Recorders.....................................7-17
Exit Lighting...................................................3-19
Extender, Safety Belt.......................................1-53
Exterior Lamps...............................................3-14
5

F
Filter
Engine Air Cleaner......................................5-20
Finish Damage.............................................5-113
Flashers, Hazard Warning.................................. 3-6
Flash-to-Pass................................................... 3-8
Flat Tire........................................................5-85
Flat Tire, Changing.........................................5-86
Flat Tire, Storing...........................................5-102
Fluid
Automatic Transmission........................5-22, 5-25
Power Steering...........................................5-38
Windshield Washer......................................5-39
Fog Lamps
Bulb Replacement.......................................3-17
Light..........................................................3-49
Four-Wheel Drive....................................2-40, 5-51
Front Axle......................................................5-52
Fuel............................................................... 5-5
Additives...................................................... 5-6
California Fuel.............................................. 5-6
E85 (85% Ethanol)........................................ 5-7
Economy Driving........................................... 4-2
Filling a Portable Fuel Container....................5-11
Filling the Tank............................................. 5-9
Fuels in Foreign Countries.............................. 5-8
Gage .........................................................3-50
Gasoline Octane........................................... 5-5Fuel (cont.)
Gasoline Specications.................................. 5-6
Low Fuel Warning Light................................3-51
Management, Active.....................................2-31
Fuses
Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block.............5-118
Fuses and Circuit Breakers.........................5-115
Instrument Panel Fuse Block.......................5-116
Underhood Fuse Block...............................5-119
Windshield Wiper.......................................5-115
G
Gages
Engine Coolant Temperature.........................3-42
Fuel..........................................................3-50
Oil Pressure...............................................3-46
Speedometer..............................................3-36
Tachometer.................................................3-36
Trip Odometer.............................................3-36
Voltmeter Gage...........................................3-39
Garage Door Opener.......................................2-71
Gasoline
Octane........................................................ 5-5
Specications............................................... 5-6
Glove Box.....................................................2-78
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program.................. 7-7
6