Power steering GMC ACADIA 2021 User Guide

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Driving and Operating 201
.Wait until the vehicle is parked to
retrieve items that have fallen to the
floor.
.Stop or park the vehicle to tend to
children.
.Keep pets in an appropriate carrier or
restraint.
.Avoid stressful conversations while
driving, whether with a passenger or on a
cell phone.
{Warning
Taking your eyes off the road too long or
too often could cause a crash resulting in
injury or death. Focus your attention on
driving.
Refer to the infotainment section for more
information on using that system and the
navigation system, if equipped, including
pairing and using a cell phone.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving means “always expect the
unexpected.” The first step in driving
defensively is to wear the seat belt. See
Seat Belts 047.
.Assume that other road users
(pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers)
are going to be careless and make
mistakes. Anticipate what they may do
and be ready.
.Allow enough following distance between
you and the driver in front of you.
.Focus on the task of driving.
Impaired Driving
Death and injury associated with impaired
driving is a global tragedy.
{Warning
Drinking alcohol or taking drugs and then
driving is very dangerous. Your reflexes,
perceptions, attentiveness, and judgment
can be affected by even a small amount
of alcohol or drugs. You can have a
serious —or even fatal —collision if you
drive after drinking or taking drugs.
Do not drive while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs, or ride with a driver
who has been drinking or is impaired by
drugs. Find alternate transportation
home; or if you are with a group,
designate a driver who will remain sober.
Control of a Vehicle
Braking, steering, and accelerating are
important factors in helping to control a
vehicle while driving.
Braking
Braking action involves perception time and
reaction time. Deciding to push the brake
pedal is perception time. Actually doing it is
reaction time.
Average driver reaction time is about
three-quarters of a second. In that time, a
vehicle moving at 100 km/h (60 mph) travels
20 m (66 ft), which could be a lot of
distance in an emergency.
Helpful braking tips to keep in mind include:
.Keep enough distance between you and
the vehicle in front of you.
.Avoid needless heavy braking.
.Keep pace with traffic.
If the engine ever stops while the vehicle is
being driven, brake normally but do not
pump the brakes. Doing so could make the
pedal harder to push down. If the engine
stops, there will be some power brake assist
but it will be used when the brake is

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
202 Driving and Operating
applied. Once the power assist is used up, it
can take longer to stop and the brake pedal
will be harder to push.
Steering
Electric Power SteeringCaution
To avoid damage to the steering system,
do not drive over curbs, parking barriers,
or similar objects at speeds greater than
3 km/h (1 mph). Use care when driving
over other objects such as lane dividers
and speed bumps. Damage caused by
misuse of the vehicle is not covered by
the vehicle warranty.
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.
If the steering assist is used for an extended
period of time while the vehicle is not
moving, power assist may be reduced.
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 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.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Driving and Operating 213
Caution (Continued)
.Avoid making hard stops for the first
300 km (200 mi) or so. During this
time the new brake linings are not yet
broken in. Hard stops with new linings
can mean premature wear and earlier
replacement. Follow this breaking-in
guideline every time you get new
brake linings.
Following break-in, engine speed and load
can be gradually increased.
Ignition Positions
The vehicle has an electronic keyless ignition
with pushbutton start. The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter
must be in the vehicle for the system to
operate. If the pushbutton start is not
working, the vehicle may be near a strong
radio antenna signal causing interference to
the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system. See
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation
07.
To shift out of P (Park), the vehicle must be
on and the brake pedal must be applied.
Stopping the Engine/LOCK/OFF (No Indicator
Lights) : When the vehicle is stopped, press
ENGINE START/STOP once to turn the
engine off.
If the vehicle is in P (Park), the ignition will
turn off, and Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
will remain active. See Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) 0217.
If the vehicle is in R (Reverse), D (Drive) or
L (Low), the vehicle will shift to P (Park), the
ignition will turn off, and Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) will remain active. If the vehicle
is in N (Neutral), the ignition will return to
ACC/ACCESSORY and display the message
SHIFT TO PARK in the Driver Information
Center (DIC). When the vehicle is shifted
into P (Park), the ignition will turn off. Do not turn the engine off when the vehicle
is moving. This will cause a loss of power
assist in the brake and steering systems and
disable the airbags.
If the vehicle must be shut off in an
emergency:
1. Brake using a firm and steady pressure. Do not pump the brakes repeatedly. This
may deplete power assist, requiring
increased brake pedal force.
2. Shift the vehicle to N (Neutral). This can be done while the vehicle is moving.
After shifting to N (Neutral), firmly apply
the brakes and steer the vehicle to a
safe location.
3. Come to a complete stop and shift to P (Park).
4. Set the parking brake. See Electric
Parking Brake 0224. And press ENGINE
START/STOP to turn the vehicle off.
{Warning
Turning off the vehicle while moving may
cause loss of power assist in the brake
and steering systems and disable the
airbags. While driving, only shut the
vehicle off in an emergency.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
298 Vehicle Care
FusesUsage
F31 Electronic brake control module electric brake
booster
F32 DC AC inverter
F33 Driver power seat
F34 Passenger power seat F35 Battery IEC 1 feed
F36 Electric power steering F37 Rear seat entertainment/USB
charge/Wireless
charging module
F38 Body control module 8
F39 –
Circuit Breakers/ Minifuse Usage
F40 –
F41 –
F42 Auxiliary power outlet (CB)/Lighter (minifuse)Rear Compartment Fuse Block
The rear compartment fuse block is behind a
trim panel on the driver side of the rear
storage compartment.
Remove the side bin, load floor, and foam.
SeeCargo Management System 085.
Remove the trim plate to access the fuse
block.
The label for this fuse block is in the spare
tire area, on the foam under the cargo floor.
See your dealer for additional assistance.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
340 Vehicle Care
blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup
of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause
wiper streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or
damaged. Damage can be caused by
extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat,
sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant on
weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal
better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate
weatherstrips at least once a year. Hot, dry
climates may require more frequent
application. Black marks from rubber
material on painted surfaces can be removed
by rubbing with a clean cloth. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants0354.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean
the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire dressing
products on the vehicle may damage the
paint finish and/or tires. When applying a
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
tire dressing, always wipe off any
overspray from all painted surfaces on
the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and
water to clean the wheels. After rinsing
thoroughly with clean water, dry with a
soft, clean towel. A wax may then be
applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome wheel trim
may be damaged if the vehicle is not
washed after driving on roads that have
been sprayed with magnesium chloride or
calcium chloride. These are used on roads
for conditions such as dust and ice.
Always wash the chrome with soap and
water after exposure.
Caution
To avoid surface damage on wheels and
wheel trim, do not use strong soaps,
chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners,
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
or brushes. Use only GM approved
cleaners. Do not drive the vehicle through
an automatic car wash that uses silicon
carbide tire/wheel cleaning brushes.
Damage could occur and the repairs
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for
proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear
and rotors for surface condition. Inspect all
other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and Chassis
Components
Visually inspect steering, suspension, and
chassis components for damaged, loose,
or missing parts or signs of wear at least
once a year.
Inspect power steering for proper electrical
connections, binding, cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint boots
and axle seals for leaks.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Service and Maintenance 347
Air Conditioning Desiccant (Replace Every
Seven Years)
The air conditioning system requires
maintenance every seven years. This service
requires replacement of the desiccant to
help the longevity and efficient operation of
the air conditioning system. This service can
be complex. See your dealer.
Tire Rotation and Required Services
Every 12 000 km (7,500 mi)
Rotate the tires, if recommended for the
vehicle, and perform the following services.
SeeTire Rotation 0313.
.Check engine oil level and oil
life percentage. If needed, change engine
oil and filter, and reset oil life system.
See Engine Oil 0276 and
Engine Oil Life System 0278.
.Check the air filter life percentage.
If necessary, replace the engine air filter
and reset the engine air filter life system.
See Engine Air Filter Life System 0279.
.Check engine coolant level. See Cooling
System 0281.
.Check windshield washer fluid level. See
Washer Fluid 0286.
.Check tire inflation pressures. See Tire
Pressure 0307.
.Inspect tire wear. See Tire Inspection
0 313.
.Visually check for fluid leaks.
.Inspect brake system. See Exterior Care
0 337.
.Visually inspect steering, suspension, and
chassis components for damage, including
cracks or tears in the rubber boots, loose
or missing parts, or signs of wear at least
once a year. See Exterior Care0337.
.Inspect power steering for proper
electrical connections, binding, cracks,
chafing, etc.
.Visually inspect halfshafts and driveshafts
for excessive wear, lubricant leaks, and/or
damage including: tube dents or cracks,
constant velocity joint or universal joint
looseness, cracked or missing boots, loose
or missing boot clamps, center bearing
excessive looseness, loose or missing
fasteners, and axle seal leaks.
.Check restraint system components. See
Safety System Check 053.
.Visually inspect fuel system for damage
or leaks.
.Visually inspect exhaust system and
nearby heat shields for loose or damaged
parts.
.Lubricate body components. See Exterior
Care 0337.
.Check parking brake and automatic
transmission park mechanism. See Park
Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
0 289.
.Check accelerator pedal for damage, high
effort, or binding. Replace if needed.
.Visually inspect gas strut for signs of
wear, cracks, or other damage. Check the
hold open ability of the strut. If the hold
open ability is low, service the gas strut.
See Gas Strut(s) 0291.
.Check tire sealant expiration date,
if equipped. See Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit 0320.
.Inspect sunroof track and seal,
if equipped. See Sunroof033.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/-
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Index 385
Climate Control SystemsDual Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Cluster, Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97, 100
Collision Damage Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 369
Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331
Compartments Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Compressor Kit, Tire Sealant . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320
Connected Services Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 381
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 382
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 380
Connections
Connected Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 381
Control Hill Descent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
Traction and Electronic Stability . . . . . . . 226
Control Light
Hill Descent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Controls Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Coolant
Engine Temperature Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Engine Temperature Warning Light . . . . . 112
Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .192, 196
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281
Courtesy Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Courtesy Transportation Program . . . . . . . . 368
Coverage Explanations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230 Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Cruise Control, Adaptive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 365
Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 365
Text Telephone (TTY) Users . . . . . . . . . . . . 365
Customer Information Publications Ordering Information . . . . . . 371
Customer Satisfaction Procedure . . . . . . . . . 363
Cybersecurity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 373
D
Damage Repair, Collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 369
Danger, Warning, and Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Data Collection Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 374
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 374
Data Recorders, Event . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 373
Database Coverage Explanations . . . . . . . . . 163 Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Destination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Diagnostics
Connected Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 382
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Dome Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Door
Ajar Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Power Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Drive Belt Routing, Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 362
Drive Systems All-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224, 289
Driver Teen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Driver Assistance Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Driver Information Center (DIC) . . . . . . . 115, 117
Driver Mode Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
Driving Assistance Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Characteristics and Towing Tips . . . . . . . . 256
Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209