2003 Chevrolet Suburban Owner's Manual
2003 Chevrolet Suburban Manual
2003 Chevrolet Suburban manual content summary:
- 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 1
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The 2003 Chevrolet TahoeEuburban Owner Manual ~~ Seats and Restraint Systems ...1-1 Front Seats ...1-3 ...1-8 Rear Seats 1-22 Safety Belts ...1-44 Child Restraints ...1-68 Air Bag Systems ...1-80 Restraint System Check Features and Controls ...2-1 Keys ...2-3 ...2-8 Doors and Locks 2-15 Windows - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 3
, the CHEVROLET Emblem, the name TAHOE and the name SUBURBAN are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 4
Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning. You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means "Don't,'' - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 5
manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors Seats and Restraint Systems in Section 1 Features and Controls in Section 2 Instrument Panel Overview in Section 3 Climate Controls in Section 3 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators in Section 3 Audio Systems in Section 3 Engine - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 6
FAN FLASHER A #0 FOG FUEL COOLANT AVO ID SPARKS OR FLAMES SPARK OR COULD EXPLODE BATTERY DO NOT INSTALLA FORWARD-FACING CHILD RESTRAINT IN THIS SEATING POSITION G I 4 OWNER'S MANUAL a ENGINE OIL PRESSUREw SERVICE L WINDOW l h DOOR LOCK UNLOCK LAMPS ANTI-LOCK ( @ ) BRAKES MANUAL - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 7
Model Reference This manual covers these models: Suburban Tahoe vi - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 8
an Air Bag Restrain? ...1-74 Front Seats ...1-3 Manual Seats ...-1 -3 Power Seats ...-1-4 Power Lumbar ...1-4 Heated Seats ...1-5 Reclining Seatbacks ...1-5 Head Restraints ...1-7 Rear Seats ...-1-8 Rear Seat Operation ...1-8 1-8 60/40 Split Bench Seat ...50/50 Split Bench Seat ...1-10 Bench Seat - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 9
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Restraint System Check ...1.80 Checking Your Restraint Systems ...1.80 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash ...1-81 What Will You See After an Air Bag Inflates? ...1-74 Passenger Sensing System ...1.76 Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ...1.79 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 10
has a manual bucket or a split bench seat, you can adjust it with this lever located at the front of the seat. Lift the lever to unlock the seat. Using your body, slide the seat to where you want it and release the lever. Try to move the seat with your body to make sure the seat is locked into place - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 11
your vehicle has this feature, the four-way control is located on the outboard side of the seat... If your vehicle has a power seat, you can adjust it with these controls located on the outboard sides of the seats. Raise or lower the front of the seat cushion by raising or lowering the forward edge - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 12
on the driver's door panel. The button used to control the passenger's heated seat is located on the passenger's door panel. To heat the entire seat, press the horizontal button. Press the button to cycle through the temperature settings of high, medium, and low. The indicator light will glow - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 13
If your vehicle has power seats with a power recliner, see Power Seats on page 1-4 for further information on how to operate the reclining motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly. But don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. 1 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 14
a crash. To raise the head restraint pull up on the head restraint. On some models the head restraints tilt forward and rearward also. The rear seat head restraints in your vehicle may be adjustable. They work the same as the front - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 15
forward until it stops. Be sure to return the seat to the passenger position when finished. Push and pull on the seat to make sure it is locked in place. 60/40Split Bench Seat I. _.le seatb--k isn't lock,,, it caw., ...- ~e forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 16
stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked. After folding the seat cushion fully forward, pull the seatback forward and fold the seatback down until it is flat. If the seatback cannot fold flat because it - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 17
4. Pull forward on the seatback and up on the seat cushion to make sure the seat is securely in place. Make sure that the buckles on the driver's side seatback are accessible to the outboard and center occupant and are not under the seat cushions. On TahoeNukon models make sure the head restraints - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 18
Seatbacks ~ Tilting the 50/50 Split Bench Seat If the seatback isn't locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sittingthere. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked. If the seatback isn't locked, it c-Ad move forward in - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 19
. Make sure the rod pin is fully engaged in the lock. 6. Pull the seatback forward to make sure it is locked in place. Removing the 50/50 Split Bench Seat To remove the 50/50 split bench seat, do the following: 1. Open the rear doors and enter the rear of the vehicle. 2. Fold the seatback forward - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 20
the floor, pull up on the release lever labeled 2, located at the rear of the seat, and lift the rear of the seat up off the floor. Replacing the 50/50 Split Bench Seat If the seatback L . ' t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 21
be seriously injured. After raising the rear seatback, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, and are not twisted. If your vehicle has a full bench seat, the seatback can be folded and the seat can be tilted or removed from the vehicle. FolAingthe Seatback - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 22
of the seatback and push the seatback forward. Tilting the Bench Seat If the seat.,ck isn't lockeb, it could move forward in a locks into the upright position. Push and pull on the seatback to check that it is locked into place. If the support rod isn't properly engaged, the folded third row seat - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 23
cargo space. To return the seat to the seating position do the following: 1. Push forward on the seat and release the support lock rod. 2. Secure the support rod in its stored position on the underside of the seat. 3. Lower the seat to the floor and let the seat drop into place. 4. Lift up - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 24
Removing the Bench Seat To remove the full bench seat, do the following: 1. Open the rear doors and enter the rear of the vehicle. 2 Fold the seatback forward onto the seat cushion by using the lever labeled 1. The seat cannot be removed unless the seatback is folded. 3. To unlatch the seat from - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 25
cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatbackto be sureit is locked. To reinstall the full bench seat, do the following: A CAUTION: .,. . . Aa ,t that isn't locked int- >lace properly can move around in a collision or sudden stop. People in the vehicle could - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 26
: 1. Pull forward the lever located at the base of the seat. 2. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. If you pull the lever seats. To do this follow these directions: 1. Lift the head restraints up until they stop. 2. Press in the button on the side of the head restraint guide - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 27
be removed and stored in the space provided in the folded up seat cushion. To fold the seatbacks on the bucket seats, do the following: 1. Pull up on the strap loop located at the rear of the seat cushion and pull the seat cushion up. Then fold it forward. 2. Pull the seatback release lever - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 28
Once the seatbacks are folded down,the rear seat footwell area will be exposed and will have to be covered by . 2. Then fold the panels back to cover the rear seat footwell area. If you have removed the head restraints to fold the rear bucket seat, be sure to reinstall them on the seatback after it - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 29
They Are for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use anyarea of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly. ~ Don't and check that your passengers' belts are fastened properly too. 1-22 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 30
UP. See When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as Safety Belt Reminder it goes. Light on page 3-37. In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here buckling up does matter...a lot! I Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels. 1-23 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 31
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The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... or the instrument panel... 1-25 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 33
much greater if you are belted. Q: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to wear safety belts? or That's why safety belts make such good sense. A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in most - not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 34
a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? How to Wear Safety Belts Properly This part is only your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn't protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within25 miles (40 km) - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 35
Position This part describes the driver's restraint system. 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don't let it get twisted. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here's how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 36
end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash. 1-29 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 37
Q: What's wrong with this? You c- be seriouslyhurt if yt ' st Jlder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body. A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won't give nearly as much protection this way. 1-30 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 38
Q: What's wrong with this? I You can be s e _lus!yi Ired if belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen.The belt forces would bethere, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 39
Q: What's wrong with this? 1 1 i You ca.. Je ser-----g ir -,-red if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 40
Q: What's wrong with this? You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chanceof head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 41
Q: What's wrong with this? Youcan be seriousl, ~ ~ d bya~ tv , I belt.~ In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it. ~ ~ A: The belt is twisted across the body. 1-34 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 42
push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 43
restraint locking feature which may turn off the passenger's frontal air bag. If this happens unintentionally, just let the belt go back all the way and start again. If your vehicle has front and rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions. When you sit in the center seating position - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 44
Lap Belt When you sit in a center seating position other than in the second row you have a lap belt. A lap safety belt does not have a retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. 1-37 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 45
up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are lap-shoulder belts. Here's how to wear a lap-shoulder belt properly. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don't let it - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 46
to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. If the belt is not quickly if you ever had to. 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 47
cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash. 1-40 To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 48
use the safety belt: 1. For the second row, remove the guide from its storage clip on the trim panel near the side of the seatback. For the third row, remove the guide from its storage clip on the side of the seatback 2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges of the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 49
- 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 50
shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the guides. Make sure you remove the comfort guide from the belt before you fold a rear seat down or use an easy-entry seat, if your vehicle has one. 1-43 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 51
abdomen, which could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in a crash. Accident statistics show that children are saferif they are restrained in the rear seat. In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike other people who are buckled up, or can be thrown out of the vehicle. Older - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 52
Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults on page 1-41. If the child is sitting in the second row center position, move the child toward the safety belt buckle. In either case, be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child's shoulder, so that in a crash the child's upper body would - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 53
's adult safety belts alone, unless there is no other choice. Instead, they need to use a child restraint. Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in CAUTION: (Continued) 1-46 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 54
e, in z rashat c y 2 nph holL .t. Forexan ,~ (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on a person's arms. A baby should be securedin an appropriate restraint. People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle.A baby doesn't weigh much - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 55
including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant's neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 56
it may settle up around the child's abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that's unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. Young children always surface. Make sure that the infant's head rests toward the center of the vehicle. 1-49 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 57
the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint. A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child's body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. 1-50 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 58
a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A buiit-in chiid restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An T-shaped shield has shoulder straps that are attached to a flat pad which rests low against the child's body. A shelf- or armrest-type shield has straps that are - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 59
restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement -facing child restraints be secured i n the rear seat whenever possible, even if the air bag is off. Where to Put the Restraint Accident - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 60
seat, the passengers frontal air bag must be off. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-76 and Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint. If yours unless it is anchored properly. In Canada, the law requires that forward- - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 61
anchored, you'll be ready to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer's instructions say. Top Strap Anchor Location TahoelSuburbanNukonNukon XL models without rear seats: Top strap anchor loops are located at the bottom rear of the front - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 62
An anchor loop bracket for a top strap is located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion for each seating position in the second row, and for the center seating position in the third row. Third Row Bench Seat TahoeNukon models: A child restraint with a top strap should only be used in the second or - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 63
An anchor loop bracket for a top strap is located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion for the center seating position in the third row. Third Row 50/50 Split Bench Seat Lower Anchorages andTop Tethers for Children (LATCH System) Your vehicle may have the LATCH system. If it does, you'll find - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 64
In order to use the system, you need either a forward-facing child restraint that has attaching points (B) at its base and a top tether anchor (C), or a rear-facing child restraint that has attaching points (B), as shown here. 1-57 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 65
the vehicle's safety belts to secure the restraint. See "Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System'' or "Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position'' in the Index for information on how to secure a child restraint in your vehicle. With this system, use the LATCH system - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 66
the seatback meets the back of the seat cushion. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position 3. Attach the anchor points on the child restraint to the anchors in the vehicle. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 4. If the child - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 67
shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 68
way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position 5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If you're using - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 69
a child restraint using a lap-shoulder belt see Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position on page 1-59. Third Row The center seat position in the third row has a lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 70
just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or iarger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 71
system and you need to secure a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger's seat, the passenger's air bag must be off. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-76 and Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator on for more information on this including page 3-38 important safety information - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 72
restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, always move the seat as far back as it air bag, the off indicator on the inside rearview mirror will light and stay lit when you turn the ignition to RUN or START. 2. Put the restraint on the seat - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 73
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button i s positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 1-66 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 74
in this seat, check to be sure the right front passenger's frontal air bag is off before you begin to drive. If the air bag has been turned off, the off indicator will light and more of the belt out of the retractor once the lock has been set. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 75
of the right front passenger's seatback closest to the door. If your vehicle has a side impactair bag for the driver, the air bag covering on the words AIR BAG will appear on the side of the driver's seatback closest to the door. Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 76
seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for air bag inflation before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with frontal air bags. The driver shouldsit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle. Front occupants should not lean on or - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 77
in your vehicle.To read how, see the part of this manual called "Older Children" or "Infants and Young Children". Where Are the Air Bags? - There is a air bag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the air bag symbol. The driver's frontal air bag is in the middle of the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 78
The right front passernger's frontal air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side. If your vehicle has one, the driver's side impact air bag is in the side of the driver's seatback closest to the door. 1-71 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 79
Inflate? If your vehicle has one, the right front passenger's side impact air bag is in the side of the passenger's seatback closest to the door. Frontal Air Bags The driver's and right front passenger's frontal air bags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 80
vehicle slows down in frontal and near-frontal impacts. For side impact air bags, inflation is determined by the location and severity of the impact. The air bag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage. Observe safe driving speeds, especially on - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 81
hardware are all part of the air bag modules. Frontal air bag modules are located inside the steering wheel and instrument panel. For vehicles with side impact air bags, the air bag modules are located in the seatback closest to the driver's and/or right front passenger's door. primarily because an - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 82
the status of the driver's safety belt usage in a crash in which the air bag deploys or a crash in which the air bag nearly deploys. The module also records speed, engine RPM, brake and throttle data. 0 Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag systems. Improper service can mean that an - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 83
visible on the rearview mirror during the system check. When the system check is complete, either Air Bag Status Indicator - Canada The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger's frontal air bag under certain conditions. The driver's air bag and the side air bags are not part - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 84
right front passenger takes hidher weight off of the seat for a period of time. the right front passenger seat is occupied by a smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints or a very small person, or if there is a critical problem with the air bag system or the passenger sensing - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 85
means that somethingmay be wrong with the air bag system. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced promptly, because an adult-size person sitting in the right front passenger's seat may not have the protection of the frontal air bag. See "Air Bag Readiness Light" in the Index for more on this - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 86
in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 7-2. For up to 1 minute after the ignition keyis turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 87
Restraint System Check Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 88
even if the belt or LATCH system wasn't being used at the time of the collision. If an air bag inflates, you'll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section. A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 89
- 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 90
Mirror ...2-49 Outside Curb View Assist Mirrors ...2-50 Outside Convex Mirror ...2-50 Outside Heated Mirrors ...2-50 Keys ...-2-3 Remote Keyless Entry System ...2 . 4 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ...2.5 Doors and Locks ...2.8 Door Locks ...2.8 . 9 Power Door Locks ...2 Delayed Locking - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 91
Section 2 Features and Controls ...-2-51 ...-2-53 ...2.54 ...2.57 ...2.57 ...2.57 ...2.57 ...2.57 , Onstar@ System ...HomeLink@ Transmitter ...Programming the HomeLink Transmitter StorageAreas ...Glove Box ...Cupholder(s) ...Front Storage Area ...Center Console Storage Area ... Luggage Carrier ... - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 92
Keys Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don't leave the keys in a vehicle with children. 2-3 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 93
Your vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition and all door locks as well as the spare tire hoist lock, if equipped. If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call the GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6. If your vehicle is equipped with theOnstar - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 94
the interior lights will come on. LOCK: Pressing this button once will lock all of the doors. Wait one second, then press LOCK again and the horn will chirp. Operating the keyless entry transmitter may interact with the theft-deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2- 18. Check the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 95
probably time to change the battery. Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from . Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 96
entry transmitter do the following: 2. Remove and replace the battery with a three-volt CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up. 3. Align the covers and snap them together. 4. Resynchronize the transmitter. 5. Check the operation of the transmitter. 1. Insert a dime, or similar - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 97
Doors and Locks Door Locks There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. You can use the keyless entry system (if equipped). You can also use your key. To lock the door from the inside, slide the lever rearward. To unlock the door, slide the lever forward. /r\ CAUTION: Unlocked doors can - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 98
Power Door Locks If your vehicle is equipped with power door locks, press the raised side of the switch, with the lock symbol, on either front door to lock all the doors at once. If your vehicle has this power door lock switch, press the bottom of the switch on either front door to lock all the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 99
unlock when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P). You can set the automatic door lock feature to unlock the doors you select once the vehicle is in PARK (P). The following instructions detail how to program your door locks. To enter the program mode you need to do the following: 1. Beginning with - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 100
programming mode, the auto lock/unlock setting will not be modified. All door locks/Only the driver's door unlocks: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on ihe door pmei G W ~ and then the unlock side once All doors IocWAll doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 101
. Lockout Protection This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver's door will unlock. 2-12 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 102
liftgate, lift the handle located in the center of the door. To lock a power lock system from the outside, insert the key into the lock button and turn clockwise. All doors will lock. You may also use the keyless entry system or the power door locks to lock the liftgate and liftgate glass. If you - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 103
clockwise. If you have power door locks, you can lock the side doors as well as the rear doors from inside the vehicle. For more information, see Power Door Locks on page 2-9 earlier in this section. To open the driver's side panel door, first open the passenger's side door. Then, pull the handle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 104
Windows Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. 2-15 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 105
to raise the window. Press the forward edge of the switch to lower the window. Power Windows If you have power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors. Express-Down Windows The driver and passenger windows also has an express down feature that allows the windows to be lowered - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 106
is located in front of the power window switches. This feature prevents all windows from operating, except from the driver's position, when the front driver's door button labeled is engaged. To engage the lock-out feature press the switch, and an indicator light will illuminate. To disengage the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 107
help. This message reminds you to activate the theft-deterrent system. Here's how to do it: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or the remote keyless entry transmitter. The security light should come on and flash. If using the remote keyless entry transmitter, the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 108
the vehicle, close the door and wait for the security light to go out. 4. Then reach in through the window, unlock the door with the manual door lock and open the door. This should set off the alarm. If the alarm does not sound when it should but the vehicle's headlamps flash, check to see if the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 109
want to check the fuse (see Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-97.) See your dealer for service. In an emergency, call the GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Programon page 7-6 under Customer Assistance Information. If the engine stalls and the security light flashes, wait - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 110
A (LOCK): This position locks your ignition and transmission. It's a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. B (ACCESSORY): This position lets you use things like the radio, power windows and the windshield wipers when the engine is off - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 111
you're already moving, then your vehicle needs service. use NEUTRAL (N) only. C (RUN): This is the position for driving. D (START): This position starts your engine. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) Your vehicle may be equipped with a Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature which will allow certain - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 112
adjust the pedals is located on the driver's side door panel. Notice: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before addingelectrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 113
-volt AC outlet. If the cord won't reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps. 4. Before starting the engine, be on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near the power steering fluid reservoir. If you have a diesel engine, refer to diesel supplement for - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 114
cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of PARK (P). PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It's the best position to use when you start your engine not fullyin PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 115
(2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. Sh----ng into a d.. e gear w J e your engine is "racing" (running at high - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 116
manually select SECOND (2) in a light pedal. This could overheat and damage the transmission. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position your transmission is designed to shift differently until the engine reaches normal operating temperature. This is intended to improve - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 117
light will illuminate. Front Axle Locking Feature The front axle locks and unlocks automatically when you shift the transfer case. Some delay for the axle to lock If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can send your engine's driving power to all four wheels for extra traction. To get the most - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 118
cluster. AUTO 4WD: This setting is ideal for use when road conditions are variable. When driving your vehicle in AUTO 4WD, the front axle is engaged, but the vehicle's power extra torque. You may never need this setting. It sends maximum power to all four wheels. You might choose 4LO if you are - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 119
. See "Service 4WD message" under Driver lnformafion Center (DIC) on page 3-52. Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 120
/h). Press and release the 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI switch. You must wait for the 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI indicator light to stop flashing and remain illuminated the vehicle is parked so that it will not roil 2. Set the parking brake. 3. Start the vehicle or turn the ignition to RUN 4. Connect the vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 121
of NEUTRAL To shift out of NEUTRAL: 1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. 2. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N) and turn the ignition to RUN with the engine off. All-Wheel Drive with Stabilitrak@ With this feature, engine power is sent to all four wheels all the time. This - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 122
maximum power to all four wheels. You might choose 4LO if you are driving off-road in deep sand, deep mud, deep snow and climbing or descending steep hills. If the SERVICE 4WD message stays on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. See SERVICE 4WD under Driver lnformation Center - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 123
is pressed when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the AWD indicator light will flash for 30 seconds but will not complete the shift unless your vehicle . 9. Turn the ignition to LOCK. 10. Place the transmission shift lever in PARK (P). '1. Release the parking brake prior to towing. 2-34 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 124
Wheel Drive or 4LO). 4. After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL the red light will go out. 5. YOU may start the engine and shift the transmission to the desired position. Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 125
be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.You or others could be injured.To be sure your vehicle won't move, even - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 126
NEUTRAL. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. 3. Be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear - not in NEUTRAL (N). 4. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 5. Remove the key - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 127
locked into PARK (P). Shifting Out of Park (P) Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes "torque lock." To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver's seat. To - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 128
Parking Over Things That Burn JS 1 tcan burn could touc lot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don't park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. 2-39 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 129
windows down to blow out any CO; and Have your vehicle fixed immediately. Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier Caution under "Engine Exhaust." Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 130
your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you've left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured.To - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 131
vehicle may have this feature. When on, an electrochromic mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark. I To adjust between Fahrenheit seconds of inactivity, the new unit will be locked in and the compass/temperature display will return. I 2-42 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 132
's not, press and hold the on/off button for approximately six seconds until the green light comes on, indicating that the mirror is in electrochromic (self dimming) mode. 2. Turn off the electrochromic mirror function by pressing and holding the on/off button for approximately six seconds until the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 133
the new zone number will be locked in and the comp/temp display magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic mirror glass, just above the buttons. If your vehicle has this feature, the mirror will displaythe word ON, or an air bag symbol in Canada, when the passenger air - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 134
, it will, when on, automatically dim to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark. The mirror also includes a display in the upper right corner of the mirror face. The compass reading and the outside temperature will both appear in the display at the same time. The dual - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 135
indicator light to the right of the TEMP button will still turn on or off to show you when the electrochromic feature is activated. Once the mirror is Such interference may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item. The compass does not display the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 136
within a few seconds. Passenger Air Bag Indicator Your mirror may be equipped with a passenger air bag indicator on the mirror glass, just above the buttons. If you have this feature the mirror will display the word ON, or an airbag symbol in Canada, when the passenger air bag is engaged. For more - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 137
-on convex mirror attachments may adversely affect mirror performance. Outside Power Mirrors If your vehicle is equipped with power outside mirrors, the controls are located on the driver's door armrest. Outside Camper-Type Mirrors I Move the selector switch located above the control pad to the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 138
normal position press the left side of the mirror control. If the mirrors are manually folded, use the power mirror control to return it to it's original position. Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror If your vehicle is equipped with this feature, the driver's side outside mirror will adjust for the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 139
Information Center. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-52. Outside Heated Mirrors The outside rearview mirrors with this option have a defrost mode. To turn on the defrost feature, press the rear window defogger button. See "Rear Window Defogger" under Dual Automatic Climate Control - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 140
Onstar@ user's guide and the terms and conditions of the Onstar@Subscription Service Agreement are included in your Onstar@-equipped vehicle's glove box literature. For more information, visit www.onstar.com, contact Onstar@at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827), or press the blue Onstar@button to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 141
. See the Onstar@manual provided with your vehicle for more information. A completed Subscription Service Agreement is required prior to delivery of Onstar@services and prepaid calling minutes are also required for Onstar@Personal Calling and Onstar@Virtual Advisor use. Terms and conditions of the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 142
complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause to activate devices such as gate operators, garage door openers, entry door locks, security systems and home lighting. Additional HomeLink@ information can be found on the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 143
door, it is advised to park outside of the garage. It is recommended that a new battery be installed in your hand-held transmitter for quicker and more accurate transmission of the radio frequency. Your vehicle's engine @ buttons while keeping the indicator light in view. 3. Simultaneously press and - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 144
blinks rapidly for two seconds and then turns toa constant light, continue with Steps 6 through 8 following to complete the programming of a rolling-code equipped device (most commonly, a garage door opener). 6. At the garage door opener receiver (motor-head unit) in the garage, locate the "Learn - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 145
If you live in Canada, or you are having difficulty programming a gate operator by using the " the three buttons do the following: 1. Press and hold down the two outside buttons until the indicator light begins to flash, after 20 seconds. 2. Release both buttons. Do not hold for longer than 30 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 146
be moved back and forth to help secure cargo. Tie the load to the siderails or siderail supports. Front Storage Area Your vehicle may be equipped with a center armrest storage compartment in the front bench seat. To open it, fold down the armrest and press the latch handle located at the front of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 147
the load to the bumpers. Do not tie the load so tightly that the crossrails or siderails are damaged. After moving a crossrail, be sure it is securely locked into the siderail. Your vehicle has a Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) located above the glass or above the rear load doors. If items are - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 148
located in the rear cargo area of the vehicle in the driver's side trim panel. Cargo Cover Cargo Tie Downs Your vehicle may the utility compartment, press in on the release latch and swing the compartment door open. To open the SuburbanNukon XL compartment, pull the latch to access. Convenience - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 149
periods of time as debris may collect in the tracts. If the battery has been recharged, disconnected or is not working, you may need to "Retained Accessory Power" under Starting and Operating Your Vehicle. Press and release the rear side of the button located in the front overhead console to express - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 150
, then the controls for the memory function are located on the driver's door. To store your memory seat, throttle and brake pedals, mirrors and radio presets, do the following: 1. Adjust the driver's seat (including the seatback recliner, lumbar, and side wing area), throttle and brake pedals, both - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 151
the memory controls. The seat, throttle and brake pedals and mirror positions can also be recalled when placing the key in the ignition if programmed to do so through the Driver Information Center (DIC). Easy Exit Seat The controls for this memory function are located on the driver's door. h This - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 152
Lamps ...3.17 Accessory Power Outlets ...3.18 Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter ...3.19 Climate Controls ...3.20 Climate Control System ...3.20 Dual Climate Control System ...3.21 Dual Automatic Climate Control System ...-3-24 Rear Air Conditioning System ...3.30 Rear Air Conditioning and Heating - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 153
128 Chime Level Adjustment ...3.128 Radio with Six-Disc CD ...3-99 Rear Seat Entertainment System ...3.113 Rear Seat Audio (RSA) ...3-122 Theft-Deterrent Feature ...3.124 Audio Steering Wheel Controls ...3.124 DVD Distortion ...3.125 Understanding Radio Reception ...3.125 Care of Your Cassette Tape - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 154
- 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 155
IA 0 m T1 0 I c I 0 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 156
Panel Cluster G. ShiftLever H. Tow/Haul Selector Button I. Audio System J. Comfort Control System K. Instrument Panel Fuse Block L.HoodRelease M. Steering Wheel Control Buttons N. Center Instrument Panel Utility Block 0. Tilt Wheel Lever P. ParkingBrakeRelease Q. Lighter and Accessory Power Outlets - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 157
you carry reflective triangles, you can use them to warn others. Set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (I00m) behind your vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold position and release the lever to lock the wheel in place. Horn To sound the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel. 3-6 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 158
side of the steering column includes the following: 00 - TurnandLaneChangeSignals Beam Changer An arrow on the instrument panel cluster Feature Windshield Wipers @ Windshield Washer @ ' Cruise Control (If Equipped) For information on the exterior lamps, drivers may not see your turn signal. 3-7 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 159
go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and a blown fuse. See to use your high-beam headlamps to signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. cluster will come on. Release the lever to turn the high-beam headlamps off. Windshield Wipers : Mist 0: off You control - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 160
, turn the control to 0. To wash the window, press the knob. The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle as the windshield washer. However, the rear window washer will run out of fluid before the windshield washer. If you can wash your windshield but not your rear windows, check the fluid - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 161
or inheavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control. Don't use cruise control on slippery roads. w : Set If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will disengage. 3-10 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 162
faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don't hold the switch at resume/accelerate. I The cruise light on the instrument panel will illuminate when the cruise control is engaged. 1. Move the cruise control switch to on. 2. Get up to the speed you - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 163
course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don't use cruise control on steep hills. Ending Cruise Control There are four ways cruise control can be turned off: Step lightly on the brake pedal. Move the cruise control switch to off - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 164
Taillamps License Plate Lamps Instrument Panel Lights Roof Marker Lamps (If Equipped) The control on the driver's side of your instrument panel operates the exterior lamps. Turn the control clockwise to operate the lamps. The exterior lamp control has four positions: 5 0 (Headlamps): Turning the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 165
Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-52 As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need them. Lamps On Reminder A reminder chime will sound when your headlamps or parking lamps are manually turned on and your ignition is off, in LOCK, ACCESSORY, or your door - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 166
Canada. The DRL system will come on when the following conditions are met: the ignition is on, the exterior lamps control is AUTO, the automatic transmission is not in PARK (P), the light vision in foggy or misty conditions. The fog lamp button is located on the left side of the instrument panel. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 167
roof lamp. This switch is located on the center of the instrument panel near the comfort controls. When the switch wiring is connected to an auxiliary roof mounted lamp, pressing the switch will activate the lamp and illuminate an indicator light near the switch. Pressing the switch again will - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 168
console. G?: his feature controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. The thumbwheel for this feature is located next to the headlamp control. Turn the thumbwheel up to adjust the instrument panel lights Lighting Your vehicle is equipped with an illuminated entry feature. When the doors - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 169
this position, the dome lamps will come on when you open a door. Battery Run-Down Protection Your vehicle may also have reading lamps in other control, all the way up. In this position, the dome lamps will remain on whether a door is opened or closed. Accessory Power Outlets With accessory power - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 170
type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug. Improper use of the power outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty. Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter The front ashtray is located near the center of the instrument panel or on the front console, if equipped. Pull OR the ashtray door to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 171
Climate Controls Climate Control System Temperature Knob The middle knob on the control panel lets you select the temperature of the air flowing into the passenger area. Turn the knob clockwise toward the red area for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise toward the blue area for cooler air. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 172
cannot be used in floor, blend or defrost modes. An indicator on the button will light up, flash three times and turn off when recirculation is selected in these modes.The air-conditioning compressor will also come on when this mode is activated. While in recirculation mode the windows may - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 173
panel is used to raise or lower the temperature on the driver's side of the vehicle. This lever also adjusts the temperature to the center console outlets (if equipped). Passenger's Side: The lever on the right side of the climate control panel is used to raise or lower the temperature on the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 174
this button to turn the rear window defogger on or off. An indicator light in the button will come on to let you know that the rear window the air outlets located in the center and on the side of your instrument panel to direct the airflow. If your vehicle is equipped with heated mirrors this - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 175
If your vehicle is equipped with the dual automatic climate control system, memory seats, and memory mirrors, you can store and recall theclimate control settings for temperature, air delivery mode, and fan speed for two different drivers. The personal choice settings recalled are determined by the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 176
for approximately four seconds. Display: In the full AUTO mode, the automatic dual climate control system display will show the driver set temperature and an arrow pointing to the driver's side. An arrow pointing to the passenger's side will display if both sides are set to the same temperature. If - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 177
make the passenger's temperature the same as the driver's press and hold the AUTO button for approximately four seconds. When auto is selected, the air conditioning operation and air inlet will be automatically controlled. The air conditioning compressor will run when the outside temperature is over - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 178
Manual Operation To change the current setting, select one of the following: '/i (Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the floor vents. Some air also comes out of the defroster and side window vents. Use this mode to send air to the rear of the vehicle. Keep the area under the front seats - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 179
. You may notice a slight change in engine performance when the air-conditioning compressor shuts off and turns on again. This is normal. When you turn the air conditioning off, this symbol will appear on the display. When the air conditioning is selected or in AUTO mode, the system will run the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 180
. Keep the air path under the front seats clear of objects. This helps air to circulate throughout your vehicle. Adding outside equipment to the front of your vehicle, such as hood-air deflectors, etc., may affect the performance of the heating and air conditioning system. Check with your dealer - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 181
If your vehicle is equipped with the optional rear air conditioner it has two rear air conditioning fan speed selectors. One fan speed selector is located in the overhead console and the other is located in the headliner above the second row seats. The knob has three speed positions. To increase - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 182
Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System If your vehicle is equipped with this system, there are controls located in the overhead console and on the back of the console in the rear seat area. The system can be controlled from the front controls as well as the rear controls. 0 (Off): An off setting, - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 183
blue area for cooler air. Mode Knob The right knob on the control panel allows you to choose the direction of air delivery. Rear Controls The rear seat controls have three knobs that control airflow speed, temperature and airflow location. (Vent): This setting directs the air through the console - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 184
Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System and Electronic Climate Controls If your vehicle is equipped with this system, there are controls located in the overhead console and on the back of the console in the rear seat area. The system can be controlled from the overhead controls or the rear controls - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 185
have the following settings: (On/Off): Press this button to turn the rear seat comfort controls on or off. (Mode): Press this button to select the air delivery, and setting, and AUTO mode. (Temperature): Press this button up or down to increase or decrease the temperature setting. 6 +2 & A8 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 186
there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual's advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly - and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They're a big help. Your vehicle also has a driver information system that - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 187
- 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 188
kilometers (used in Canada). Tachometer Your tachometer displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver's safety belt is already buckled. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 189
Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag's electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 190
a problem with the lights or the passenger sensing system. See your dealer for service. If the ON indicator comes on when you have a rear-facing child restraint installed in the right front passenger's seat, it means that the passenger sensing system has not turned off the passenger's frontal air - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 191
Have it checked right away. Driving with this light displayed could drain your battery. If you must drive a short distance with this light displayed, it helps to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and the air conditioner. When the engine is running, the gage shows the condition of the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 192
, turn off all unnecessary accessories. Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible. Your vehicle's hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn't working, the other part can still work and - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 193
floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See Towing Your Vehic' on page 4-53. Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light With the anti-lock brake system, this light will come on when you start your engine and may stay on for several seconds. That - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 194
on for the following reasons: 0 If the Traction Assist System is affected by an anti-lock brake system, TAS or engine-related problem, the system will turn off and the light will come on. Have your vehicle serviced. If the vehicle is driven over an extremely rough road, the system will turn off - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 195
Temperature Gage 7 7 United States Canada United States Canada This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. It also provides an 25°C)mark, it indicates that the cooling system is working beyond its capacity. See Engine Overheating on page 5-30. Your vehicle may be equipped with a - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 196
Driver lnformation Center will display a TRANS HOT IDLE ENG warning message. Pull the vehicle off the roadway when it is safe to do so. Set the parking brake, place the transmission in PARK (P) and allow the engine level High transmission fluid level Restricted air flow to the radiator and the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 197
OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The Check Engine light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required. Malfunctions often - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 198
the engine. If the light remains on steady, see "If the Light Is On Steady" following. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service. If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition will usually - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 199
inspection: Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the Check Engine light is on or not working properly. Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the OBD (on-board diagnostic) system determines that critical emission control systems have not been completely diagnosed by the system. The - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 200
the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. 1 United States Canada The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) when - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 201
four-wheel drive indicator will light up when you shift a manual transfer case into four-wheel drive and the front axle engages. Tow/HauI Mode Light 7 * This light is displayed whenthetow/haulmode has been activated. Some delay between shifting and the indicator's lighting is normal. See Four - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 202
tank's capacity to fill the tank. The gage goes back to empty when you turn off the ignition. United States Canada Low Fuel Warning Light The See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-52. The light next to the fuel gage will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. This light comes - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 203
DIC will display the current driver and the information that was last displayed before the engine was turned off. If a problem is detected, a warning message will appear on the display. Pressing the select button will acknowledge any current warning or service messages. A (Trip Information): This - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 204
information by pressing the trip odometer reset stem on the instrument panel cluster. Personal Trip If the PERSONAL TRIP is on (turn it on your vehicle is getting for the business trip based on current and past driving conditions. BUSINESS: AVG MPH - This shows the vehicle's average speed for the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 205
your vehicle does not have the DIC steering wheel control buttons, press the reset stem on the instrument panel cluster. You can also reset the PERSONAL: XX MI, the total number of hours the engine has run. Pressing the reset stem on the instrument cluster will also display the hourmeter after the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 206
wheel control buttons manual. Also, the oil change reminder will not detect dusty conditions or engine malfunctions that may affect the oil. Also, the oil change reminder does not measure how much oil you have in your engine. So, be sure to check your oil level often. See Engine - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 207
section for more information. ALARMWARNINGTYPE AUTOMATIC LOCKING AUTOMATIC UNLOCKING SEATPOSITIONRECALL PERIMETER LIGHTING REMOTELOCKFEEDBACK REMOTEUNLOCKFEEDBACK HEADLAMPS ON AT EXIT CURB VIEWASSIST EASYEXITSEAT DISPLAYUNITS (E/M) DISPLAY LANGUAGE The driver's preferences are recalled by pressing - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 208
button will scroll through the following choices: LOCK DOORS OUT OF PARK (default): The doors will lock when the vehicle is shifted out of PARK (P). LOCK DOORS MANUALLY: The be locked automatically. doors will not UNLOCK DRIVER IN PARK: The driver's door will be unlocked when the vehicle is shifted - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 209
driver's door panel. SEAT POSITION RECALL AT KEY IN: The memory seat position you saved will be recalled when you put the key in the ignition. SEAT POSITION RECALL ON REMOTE: The memory seat the remote keyless entry transmitter. PERIMETER LIGHTING OFF: The perimeter lights will not come on when you - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 210
symbol on the remote keyless entry transmitter and the horn will chirp the second time you press the lock button. LOCK FEEDBACK: OFF: There will be no feedback when locking the vehicle. LOCK FEEDBACK: HORN: The horn will chirp the second time you press the button with the iock symbol on the remote - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 211
will be tilted down when the vehicle is shifted into REVERSE (R). CURB VIEW: DRIVER: The driver's outside mirror will be tilted down when the vehicle is shifted into REVERSE (R). CURB VIEW: BOTH: The driver's and passenger's outside mirror will be tilted down when the vehicle is shifted into REVERSE - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 212
Pressing the select button will scroll through the following choices: SEAT POSITION EXIT OFF (default): The driver's seat will move to the exit position when the exit button on the driver's door panel is pressed. SEAT POSITION EXIT ON: The driver's seat will move to the exit position when the key is - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 213
by the driver to correct the condition. If there is more than one message that needs to be displayed they will appear one after another. Some messages may not require immediate action but you should press the select button to acknowledge that you received the message and clear it ENGINE COOLANT HOT - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 214
mode. See Engine Overheating on page 5-30 for further information. SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM If there is a problem with the brake system, this message will be displayed on the DIC. If this message appears, stop as soon as possible and turn off the vehicle. Restart the vehicle and check for the message - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 215
SERVICE BRAKE BOOSTER If your vehicle has vaccum assist power brakes, this message will be displayed on the DIC when there is a problem with the Supplemental Brake Assist system. If the message is displayed immediately after starting the vehicle or the message appears while driving, your - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 216
off the vehicle. Restart the vehicle and check for the message on the DIC display. If the message is still displayed, or appears again when you begin driving, the ride control needs service. REDUCED BRAKE POWER If your vehicle has vacuum assist power brakes, this message will be displayed and you - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 217
is a problem with your brake system. If you continue to drive with this message displayed it can lead to an accident.You should have the vehicle towed for service. Also, see Brake System Warning Light in the Index. Your brake system may ne--Je working properly if the REDUCED BRAKE POWER message is - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 218
problem is corrected, pressing the select button will clear this message from the DIC display. TRANSMISSION HOT If the transmission fluid temperature becomes high, the message center fluid level Restricted air flow to the radiator and the auxiliary transmission oil cooler. CHECK WASHER FLUID if - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 219
transmission maintenance intervals. LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR If the driver's side rear door is not fully closed, this message will appear on the display and you will hear a chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for obstacles, and close the door again. Check to see if the message still - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 220
is on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-47. The message could be displayed if the stability system takes longer than usual to complete its diagnostic checks due to driving conditions. Also, if an engine or vehicle related problem has been detected, and the vehicle needs service, the message - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 221
. So, before adding sound equipment, check with your dealer and be sure to check federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone its controls to be sure you're getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it. Your vehicle may have a feature called Retained Accessory Power - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 222
you have tuned to an RDS broadcast station, it may take a few minutes for your time to update. AM-FM Radio Playing the Radio PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off. VOL (Volume): Turn the knob to increase or to decrease volume. RCL (Recall): Press this - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 223
Finding a Station AM FM: Press this button to switch the display between time and radio station frequency. Time display is available with the ignition turned off. TUNE: Turn this knob to tune in radio stations. SEEK D : Press the right or the left arrow to seek to the next or to the previous station - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 224
appears on the display it means that your radio has not been configured properly for your vehicle and must be returned to the dealership for service. LOC (Locked): This message is displayed when the Theftlock@system has locked up. Your vehicle must be returned to the dealership for - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 225
is equipped with the Bose@audio system, your vehicle will have six Base@ amplified speakers. Radio Data System (RDS): Your audio system is equipped with a , including song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XMTM service. For more information, contact XMTM at www. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 226
and other obstructions. Additional services will be added in the future. For current DAB coverage and other information consult the GM Canada website at www.gmcanada PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off. VOL (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or to decrease volume. AUTO VOL ( - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 227
BAND: Press this button to switch between AM, FM, FM2, or XMI, XM2 (USA only, if your radio is equipped with XMTMSatellite Radio Service) or DABl, DAB2 (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB). The display will show your selection. TUNE: Turn this knob to choose radio stations. For DAB - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 228
if your radio is equipped with the XM Satellite Radio Service) or six DAB1 and six DAB2 (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB), by or XM2, or DABl, DAB2. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press AUTO EQ to choose the bass and treble equalization that best suits the type of station you - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 229
to the middle position and the display will show the speaker balance. To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. The radio will produce one beep and display ALL with the level display in the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 230
and hold BAND again for two seconds to turn alternate frequency off. AF OFF will appear on the the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. INFO (Information): If , etc. If the whole message is not displayed, parts of it will appear every three seconds. To scroll - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 231
. For DAB (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB), when the TRAF button is pressed, DAB does not seek to a station that broadcasts traffic. DAB only checks the current frequency for traffic support. This function does not apply to XMTMSatellite Radio Service. Traffic Interrupt Feature - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 232
Channels) Condition XL on the radio display, after the channel name, indicates content with explicit language. Updating encryption code Loss . This message should disappear shortly. This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another channel. This previously assigned channel is no longer - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 233
No Info ~~ I Condition Category Name not available your vehicle serviced, check with the servicing facility. No Info Not Found XM Locked No TextAnformational will see this message alternating with your XM Radio 8 digit radio ID label. This label is needed to activate your service. If you receive - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 234
Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in and the disc should begin playing. The display will show the CD symbol. If you want to insert a - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 235
should play. It's very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the disc should play. The disc is dirty, scratched, wet or upside down. The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 236
equipped with the Base@ audio system, your vehicle will have six Base@ amplified speakers. Radio Data System (RDS): Your audio system is equipped with a audio and text information, including song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XMTMservice. For more - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 237
and other obstructions. Additional services will be added in the future. For current DAB coverage and other information consult the GM Canada website at www.gmcanada PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off. VOL (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or to decrease volume. AUTO VOL ( - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 238
XM2 (USA only, if your radio is equipped with XMTM Satellite Radio Service) or DAB1, DAB2 (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB). The display will show selection. TUNE: Turn this knob to choose radio stations. For DAB (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB), the TUNE knob allows - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 239
USA only, if your radio is equipped with the XM Satellite Radio Service) or six DAB1 and six DAB2 (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB), by performing the for that pushbutton. 6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton. AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button to choose bass and - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 240
to the middle position and the display will show the speaker balance. To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. The radio will produce one beep and display ALL with the level display in the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 241
and hold BAND again for two seconds to turn alternate frequency off. AF OFF will appear on the the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. INFO (Information): If , etc. If the whole message is not displayed, parts of it will appear every three seconds. To scroll - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 242
Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB), when the TRAF button is pressed, DAB does not seek to a station that broadcasts traffic. DAB only checks the current frequency for traffic support. This function does not apply to XMTMSatellite Radio Service for service. LOCKED: This message is displayed - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 243
~ ~ ~ Condition Action Required These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a customer's request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696). XL (Explicit Language Channels) XL on the radio display, after the channel name, indicates content with explicit language. Updating encryption code Loss of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 244
Message No Info Condition Action Required XM Locked Theft lock active The XM receiver in your vehicle may have previously been in another vehicle. For security purposes, XM receivers cannot be swapped between vehicles. If you receive this message after having your vehicle serviced, check with the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 245
remove the tape and start over. While the tape is playing, use the VOL, AUDIO and SEEK controls just as you do for the radio. The display will show TAPE and an arrow showing which side of the tape is playing. If you want to insert a tape while the ignition is off - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 246
part of the tape. Press this pushbutton again to return to playing speed. The radio will play while the tape advances. The station frequency and FWD will appear on the display. You may select stations during forward operation by using TUNE and SEEK. 5 SIDE Messages CHK TAPE (Check Tape): If CHK TAPE - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 247
contact your dealer. Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in and the disc should begin playing. The display adapter into the cassette tape slot. It will power up the radio and begin playing. The override feature will remain active until the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 248
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to reverse quickly within a track. Press and hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds to reverse at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release it to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 249
disc is dirty, scratched, wet or upside down. The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and DVD Your vehicle may have an overhead Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) System. If your vehicle has this system and a DVD is playing, the DVD symbol will appear on the radio display indicating that the DVD - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 250
is equipped with the Bose@audio system, your vehicle will have six Base@ amplified speakers. Radio Data System (RDS): Your audio system is equipped with a audio and text information, including song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XMTMservice. For more - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 251
Additional services will be added in the future. For current DAB coverage and other information consult the GM Canada Playing the Radio PWR (Power): Push this knob to turn the system on and off the knob to increase or to decrease volume. AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): Your system has a feature - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 252
BAND: Press this button to switch between AM, FM, FM2, or XM1, XM2 (USA only, if your radio is equipped with XMTMSatellite Radio Service) or DABI, DAB2 (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB). The display will show your selection. TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations. For DAB - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 253
USA only, if your radio is equipped with the XMTMSatellite Radio Service) or six DAB1 and six DAB2 (Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB), by performing tone or speaker control is displayed. The radio will produce one beep and CENTERED will appear on the display. AUTO EQ (Automatic - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 254
To return to the manual mode (CUSTOM), press the AUTO EQ button until CUSTOM appears on the display. Then you will be able to manually adjust the bass, midrange and treble using the . To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 255
will not switch to other stations. When you turn the ignition off and then on again, the alternate frequency feature will automatically be turned on. This function does not apply for XMTMor DAB. RDS and of the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. 3-104 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 256
is not displayed, parts of it will appear Canada only, if your radio is equipped with DAB), when the TRAF button is pressed, DAB does not seek to a station that broadcasts traffic. DAB only checks the current frequency for traffic support. This function does not apply to XMTMSatellite Radio Service - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 257
XMTMRadio Messages (after 4 second delay) 3-106 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 258
XMTMRadio Messages (cont'd) Radio Display Message Condition Category Name not available I No Info I I No Info Not Found XM Locked No Texthformational message available No channel available for the chosen category Theft lock active Radio ID Radio ID label (channel 0) label is needed to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 259
will hold up to six discs. To insert one disc, do the following: 1. Turn the ignition on. 2. Press and release the LOAD side of the LOAD CD button. 3. Wait for the light, located to the right of the slot, to turn green. 4. Load a disc. Insert the disc partway into the slot, label - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 260
repeatedly press the CD eject side of the LOAD CD eject button to eject a disc after you have tried to push it in manually. The receivers 25-second press and hold this button for two seconds. You will hear a beep and the light will flash to let you know when a disc is being ejected. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 261
, press and release the RDM button. RANDOM ALL will appear on the display. Press RDM again to turn it off. AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press AUTO EQ to select the desired equalization setting while playing a compact disc. The equalization will be automatically set whenever you play a compact - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 262
steps: 1. Turn the disc player on and load it with at least one disc. See "LOAD CD" listed previously in this section for more information. 2. Check to see that the disc changer is not in song list mode. S-LIST should not appear in the display. If S-LIST is present, press the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 263
the song list has been deleted. Compact Disc Messages CHECK CD: If this message appears on the radio disc is dirty, scratched, wet or upside down. The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. If a disc is ejected, and the song - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 264
on the remote control. See "Remote Control'' later in this section for more information. The DVD player power may be turned on when the ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or Retained Accessory Power (RAP). The RSE system DVD player is only compatible with DVDs of the appropriate DVD region code for the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 265
Buttons 6 (Power): on or off. Press this button to turn the RSE system To play a disc, gently insert the disc with the label side up into the loading slot. The DVD player will continue loading the disc and the player will automatically start, if the vehicle ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or RAP - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 266
on the DVD player or the remote control.To resume playback, press the play/pause button on the DVD player or the remote control. As long Code Error: This message will be displayed if the region code of the DVD is not compatible with the DVD player. Ejecting a Disc Press the eject button on the DVD - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 267
on the front of the DVD console, behind the video screen, near the driver of the vehicle. Press this button while a DVD or CD is playing to freeze the video and mute the audio. The video screen will display Parental Control ON and the power indicator light on the DVD player will flash. It will - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 268
Remote Control Buttons A. Power: Press this button to turn the DVD player on or off. B. Title: Press this button to return the DVD to the main menu of the DVD. may not work when the DVD is playing the copyright or the previews. J. Numeric Key Pad: The remote control numeric keypad provides you with - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 269
button may not work when the DVD is playing the copyright or the previews. 3-118 Battery Replacement To change the batteries, do the following: 1. Remove the battery compartment door located 0 1 7 the bottom of the remote control. 2. Replace the two AA batteries in the compartment. Make sure that - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 270
an external auxiliary device to the color-coded RCA jacks and turn both the auxiliary device and the RSE system power on. If the RSE system had been previously in the DVD player mode, you will need to press the SRCE button on the faceplate or the remote control to change to the auxiliary mode - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 271
be selected as an audio source on the Rear Seat Audio system if the RSE system power is on. Refer to Rear Seat Audio (RSA) on page 3-722 for more information enter button to accept the change. Audio Output Audio from the DVD player or auxiliary inputs may be heard through the following possible - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 272
on the DVD menu. The remote control does Point the remote control not work. directly at the infrared window below the video screen while using.Check that the batteries are not dead or put in wrong.The parental control button might have been pressed. (The power indicator light will flash.) Problem In - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 273
mode to the picture or sound. auxiliary source mode.Check to make sure that the auxiliary source is connected to the inputs properly. My disc is stuck in the Press the Load/Eject player. The Load/Eject button on the DVD player.Turn the power off, button does not work. then on again - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 274
Rear Seat Audio Controls (Volume): Turn the knob to increase or to decrease volume. The left knob controls the left headphone and the right knob controls the right headphone. SRC (Source): Press this button to select an audio source: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, DVDs, XM (if your vehicle is equipped - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 275
is playing, press this button to go to the other side of the tape. When a CD is playing in the to select a disc. Audio Steering Wheel Controls You can control certain radio functions using the buttons on LOCKED will be displayed. When the radio and vehicle are turned off, the blinking red light - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 276
press this button to play the other side of the tape. If a CD is is equipped with the XMTM Satellite Radio Service), or DAB1 or DAB2 (if your vehicle tape or a CD symbol. DVD Distortion You may experience audio distortion up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 277
XMTMSatellite Radio Service XMTMSatellite Radio gives you digital radio reception from coast to coast. the tape player. For best results, use a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. The recommended cleaning - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 278
cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. Care of Your CDs and DVDs Handle discs carefully. Store neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. Be sure never to touch the side without writing when handling discs. Pick up discs by - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 279
might be by vandals, you should replace it. Check occasionally to be sure the mast is still tightened radio reception is availablein Canada only. The performance of 6 with the ignition on and the radio power off. The chime volume level will change fromthe module will disable vehicle chimes. 3-1 28 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 280
58 4-59 4-59 Your Driving. the Road. and Your Vehicle ...4-2 Defensive Driving ...4-2 Drunken Driving ...4-3 Control of a Vehicle ...4-6 Braking ...4-6 Traction Assist System (TAS) ...4-9 Locking Rear Axle ...4-11 Stabilitrak@ System ...4-11 Steering ...4-14 QUADRASTEERTM ...4-16 Off-Road Recovery - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 281
maneuver, in both city and rural driving. You never know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or turn suddenly. Defensive driving requires that a driver concentrate on the driving task. Anything that distracts from the driving task - such as concentrating on a cellular telephone call - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 282
on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things: 0 0 The amount of alcohol consumed The drinker's body weight The amount of food that is consumed before and during drinking The - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 283
, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in an increasing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, sets the legal limit at 0.08 percent. In some other countries, the limit is even lower - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 284
, the chance of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater! The body takes about an hour to cord or heart. This means that when anyone who has been drinking - driver or passenger - is in a crash, that person's chance of being killed - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 285
the road (wet, dry, icy); tire tread; the condition of your brakes; the weight of the vehicle and the amount of brake force applied. Sometimes, as when you're driving on snow or ice, it's easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can lose - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 286
down. If your engine stops, you will still have some power brake assist. But you will use it when you brake. Once the power assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push. If there's a problem with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 287
The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computeris programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions. This can help you steer around the obstacle while braking hard. Let's say the road is wet and you're driving safely. Suddenly, an animal - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 288
is normal and doesn't mean there's a problem with your vehicle. Examples of these conditions include a hard acceleration in a turn, an abrupt upshift or downshift of the transmission or driving on rough roads. Using Anti-Lock Don't pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let anti - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 289
light will go off and TAS will be on again. This is normal. A Traction Assist System, Anti-Lock Brake System or engine-related problem has been detected and the vehicle needs service accordingly. The traction off light will come on under the following conditions: The Traction Assist System is - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 290
combines antilock brake, traction and stability control systems and helps the driver maintain directional control of the vehicle in most driving conditions. When you first start your vehicle and begin to drive away, the system performs several diagnostic checks to insure there are no problems. You - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 291
driver that both the stability system and part of the traction control system are disabled. Your vehicle will still have brake-traction control when Stabilitrak@ is off, but will not be able to use the engine speed management system. See "Traction Control extreme off-road conditions where high wheel - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 292
this state, engine power is not reduced automatically and the driven wheels can spin more freely. This can cause the brake-traction control to activate constantly. For more information on the traction active message, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on Notice: If the traction off light comes on - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 293
control when the system activates, the STABILITY SYS ACTIVE message will appear on the Driver Information Center and the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions and slow down. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 294
course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you'll wantto go slower. If you need to reduce your and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking - if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can't; there isn - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 295
control and diagnostic module that this mode at all times, and during all driving and weather conditions. You can select this mode at any speed, however, if the right of the 4 Wheel Steer button, lights up. If the 2 indicator is flashing you will haveto center the steering wheel by turning it to the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 296
the 4 Wheel Steer button, comes on and stays on. If the 4 indicator is flashing you will have to center the steering wheel by turning it to the left or right. L Higher Speeds (40 m.p.h./64 km/h, and above) enhanced for trailer towing. It is recommended for all types and weights of trailers. 4-17 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 297
tow mode, press the button until the 4 and tow mode indicators light up on the instrument panel. If the tow indicator is flashing you will have to center the steering wheel by turning it to the left or right. While (208 cm) between the rails. Before using the car wash check with the manager. 4-18 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 298
of a road onto the shoulder while you're driving. Passing Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits pass. A broken center line usually indicates it's all right to pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 299
check the blind spot. Check your mirrors , glance over your shoulder and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror mirror the brake lamps are not - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 300
to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited. While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking (including engine braking by shifting - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 301
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel drive. Also, see Braking on page 4-6. If your vehicle doesn this guide. You'll find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help make your off-road driving safer and more enjoyable. The front bumper lower air dam - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 302
-pin with a tool until it releases from the retainer. Notice: Operating your vehicle for extended periods without the front bumper lower air dam installed can cause improper air flowto the engine and may allow things like fog lamps or tow hooks on the frontof your vehicle to be damaged. Always be - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 303
washer portion of the push-pin towards the retainer until it locks into place. Before You Go Off-Roading There are some things to do before you go out. For example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance and service work done. Check to make sure all underbody shields (if so equipped) are - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 304
cargo properly. Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle's center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over. You - or disturb wildlife (this includes wheel-spinning, breaking down trees or unnecessary driving through streams or over soft this manual. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-56 and Tires on - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 305
the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch can be handy if you get stuck. But you'll want to know how to use it properly. Controlling your . Your ears need to listen for unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms, hands, feet and body, you'll need to respond to vibrations and vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 306
some things to consider. Surface Conditions: Off-roading can take you or two wheels, you can't control the vehicle as well or at , sudden turns or sudden braking. In a way, off posted speed limits or signal lights. You have to use drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. See Drunken - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 307
turning maneuvers? any h...; are sirr , y too steep for any vehicle. If you drive up them, you will stall. If you drive down them, you can't control your speed. If you drive across them, you will roll over. You could be seriously injured or killed. If you have any doubt about the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 308
a low gear and get a firm grip on the steering wheel. Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain your speed. Don't use more power than you need, because you don't want your wheels to start spinning or sliding. Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 309
shifting into NEUTRAL (N) to "rev-up" the engine and regain forward momentum. This won't work. Your vehicle will roll backwards very quickly and you could go out of control. Instead, apply the regular brake to stop the vehicle. Then apply the parking brake. Shift to REVERSE (R), release the parking - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 310
takes you downhill, you'll want to consider a number of things: 0 A: Set the parking brake, put your transmission in PARK (P) and turn off the engine. Leave the vehicle and go get some help. Exit on the uphill side and stay clear of the path the vehicle would take if it rolled downhill. Do - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 311
, then try to keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a low gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes and they won't have to do all the work. Descend slowly, keeping yo1.- ..-'We under control at all times. When driving downhill, avoid turns that take you across the incline of the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 312
puts more weight on the downhill wheels. This could cause a downhill slide or a rollover. Surface conditions can be a problem when you drive sideways, turn downhill. This should help straighten out the vehicle and prevent the side slipping. However, a much better way to prevent this is to get out - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 313
) get out on the uphill side, even if the door there is harder to open. If you get out on the downhill side and the vehicle starts to roll the sand. This has an effect on steering, accelerating and braking. You may want to reduce the air pressure in your tires slightly when driving on sand. This will - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 314
, poor steering and difficult braking can cause you to slide Amm oft control. If the water isn't able to start your engine. When you go through water, remember that when your brakes get wet, it that deepcan damage your axle and other vehicle parts. Driving through rushing water can be dangerous. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 315
. These substances can cause glazing and uneven braking. Check the body structure, steering, suspension, wheels, tires and exhaust system for damage. Also, check the fuel lines and cooling system for any leakage. Your vehicle will require more frequent service due to off-road use. Refer to the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 316
drink and drive. Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night blindness - the inability to see in dim light - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 317
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can't stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn't as good as on dry roads. And, - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 318
acci work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 319
Deep Standing Water Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you can't avoid deep puddles or - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 320
and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you check both ways for vehicles that have not cleared the intersection or may be running the red light. One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You'll want to watch out for what the other drivers - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 321
right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a at close to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to blend - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 322
Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble a day's work - don't plan to make too many miles that first part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can easily drive in. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 323
interior. e Hill and Mountain Roads Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your mirrors and your instruments frequently. If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness on - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 324
Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission, and you can climb the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane. If you don't shift down, your brakes - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 325
see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or no-passing 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 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 326
a traction system, you'll want to slow down and adjust your driving to the road conditions. See Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 4-9. If you don't have a traction system, accelerate gently. Try not to break the gentle traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 327
vehicle's stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have an anti-lock braking system, you'll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See Braking on page 4-6. Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. Watch for slippery spots. The road - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 328
from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow doesn't collect there. Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that's away from the wind. This will help keep CO out. You - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 329
your tires spin at I..,.. ;pe--, they can explode, and you or others could be of injured. And, the transmission or other parts the vehicle canoverheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage. When you're stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don't spin the wheels above25 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 330
and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is in gear. By slowly spinning your wheels in theforward and reverse directions, you will cause - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 331
hooks, when used, are under a lot of force. Always pull the vehicle straight out. Never pull on the hooks at a sideways angle. The hooks could break off and you or others could be injured from the chain or cable snapping back. Notice: Never use recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 332
or a professional towing service if you need to do recreational vehicle towing: e What's the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure you read the 4-43. Dinghy Towing When towing your vehicle, turn the ignition to LOCK. Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Two-wheel-drive vehicles, should not be towed - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 333
. See Four-Wheel Drive on page 2-28 for the proper procedure to select the NEUTRAL position for your vehicle. " 1 n I 5. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is firmly attached to the following vehicle. 6. - .-- the i{ ion 9 . Use the following procedure to tow your - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 334
to NEUTRAL. See four-Wheel Drive on page 2-28 for the proper procedure to select the NEUTRAL position for your vehicle. 5. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is firmly attached to the following vehicle. 6. Turn the ignition off. Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles If your vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 335
E R ' MANUAL S FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION^ \ I 1 The Certificationflire label is found on the rear edge of the driver's door or in the Incomplete Vehicle Document in the cab. The label shows the size of your original tires and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 336
of the seats. 0 Don't leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. 0 When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can. This type of level control will provide a leveled riding position as well as improved handling under a variety of passenger and loading conditions - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 337
is available on C/K 1500 vehicles and comes as a part of the AutorideTM suspension. This type of level control is fully automatic and will provide a better leveled riding position as well as better handling under a variety of passenger and loading conditions. An air compressor connected to the rear - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 338
and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well or even at Maintenance Services" in the Index. To identify the vehicle trailering capacity of your vehicle, you should read the information in "Weight of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 339
. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear conditions). See "Tow/Haul Mode" later in this section. the weight of the trailer, the weight of the trailer tongue and the weight control if your trailer will weigh less than 5,000 Ibs. (2 270 kg). You should always use a sway control - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 340
Weight of the Trailer later in this section. Tow/haul is most useful under the following driving conditions: When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load through rolling terrain. When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load in stop and go traffic. 0 0 Improve control light engine - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 341
weight is calculated assuming only the driver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of 14,000 Ibs. (6 356 kg) (454 kg). I C-1500 (2WD)* I 4800 V8 5300 V8 1 V8 5300 (SuburbanNukon XL) I Tongue weight should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the trailer - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 342
(6 350 kg) 16, 000 Ibs (7 257 kg) I C-2500 1 6000 V8 (SuburbanNukon XL)t 6000 V8 wI4WS I 8100 V8 I 3.73 4.10 I 10,400 Ibs. (4 717 kg) I 17,000 Ibs. (7 718 kg) kg) I (Suburban/YukonXL)t I I 12,000 Ibs. (5 448 kg) I 14,000 Ibs. 356 (6 *Tongue weight should be 10 percent to 15 percent of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 343
Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L I H 8P7 4-64 Weight important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 344
numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver's door or see Tire Loading for more information. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. If you use a weight distributing hitch, make sure you don't go over the rear - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 345
. You could even lose your brakes. If everything checks out this far, make the brake tap at the port on the master cylinder that sends the fluid to the rear brakes. But don't use copper tubing for this. If you do, it will bend and finally break off. Use steel brake tubing. Safety Chains You should - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 346
), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 347
avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Making trailer won't strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. it's important to check and, if possible, have someone guide you. If your vehicle is equipped - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 348
't shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions). You may also want to activate the tow/ few minutes before turning the engine off. If you do get the overheat warning, see Engine Overheating on page 5-30 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 349
, and It can be dan,-roL__ =-- OL- >f your c _..._. e if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 350
fluid (don't overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belts, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you're trailering, it's a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 351
circuits: Yellow:Left Stop/Turn Signal DarkGreen: Right Stop/Turn Signal Brown: Taillamps White: Ground LightGreen:Back-upLamps Red: Battery Feed Dark Blue: Trailer Brake Trailer Wiring Harness Package Your vehicle is equipped with the seven-wire trailer towing harness. This harness with a seven - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 352
DarkBlue: Trailer Brake Step-Bumper Pad Your vehicle has a rear step bumper with a rear step pad at the center of the bumper. @ @ @ 0 If your trailer is equipped with electronic brakes, you can get a jumper harness (electric trailer brake control) with a trailer battery feed fuse from - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 353
.PZX NOTES 4-74 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 354
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Windshield Washer Fluid ...5-39 Brakes ...5-40 Battery ...-5-44 Jump Checking Things Under the Hood ...-5-12 Hood Release ...5.12 Engine Compartment Overview ...5.14 Engine Oil ...5-17 Engine Air CleanedFilter ...5-22 Automatic Transmission Fluid ...5-25 Engine - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 355
(VIN) ...Service Parts Identification Label ...5-96 Electrical System ...5-97 Add-on Electrical Equipment ...5.97 Windshield Wiper Fuses ...5.97 Power Windows and Other Power Options ...5-97 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ...5-97 Capacities and Specifications ...5-106 Capacities and Specifications - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 356
best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you'll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You'll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you'll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: 5-3 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 357
To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 7-I I. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-79. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 358
is considered normal. This does not indicate a problem exists or that a higher-octane fuel is necessary. If you are using 87 octane or higher-octane fuel and hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. If your vehicle has the 5.3L V8 engine (VIN Code Z only), you may use either regular unleaded - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 359
Manufacturers Association for better vehicle performance and engine protection. Gasoline meeting these specifications could provide improved driveability and emission control system performance compared to other gasoline. In Canada, look for the "Auto Makers' Choice" label on the pump. California - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 360
. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage theplastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn't be engine (VIN Code Z) may use 85% ethanol fuel (E-85). Many service stations will not have an 85% ethanol fuel (E-85) pump available. The U. S. Department of Energy has an alternative - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 361
United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn't be covered by your warranty. To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 362
if you're near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from fuel. The fuel cap is located behind a hinged door on the driver's side of the vehicle. 5-9 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 363
of Your Vehicle on page 5-91. While refueling, hang the fuel cap by the tether using the hook located on the inside of the filler door. To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). 5-10 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 364
dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and may damage your fuel tank and emissions system. See "Malfunction lndicator Lamp" in the Index. Never fill a portable fuel container whileit is in your - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 365
Checking Things Under the Hood Hood Release To open the hood do the following: 1. Pull the handle inside the vehicle located under and to the left of the steering wheel. Things that burn can get on hot engine . rts and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 366
3. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all filler caps are on properly. Pull down the hood and close it firmly. 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release located near the center of the grill. 5-13 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 367
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the VORTEC 5300 V8 engine (VORTEC 4800 and 6000 V8 engines similar), you'll see the following: I 5-14 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 368
(If Equipped) D. Engine Oil Dipstick E. Automatic Transmission Dipstick F.Engine Oil Fill G. Fan H. Remote Negative (-j Terminal (GND) I. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir J. Remote Positive (+) Terminal K. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir L. Underhood Fuse Block M. Battery N. Windshield Washer Fluid - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 369
When you open the hood on the VORTEC 8100 V8 engine you'll see the following: 5-16 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 370
I. Remote Positive (+) Terminal J. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir K. Brake Master Fluid Reservoir L.UnderhoodFuseBlock M. Battery N. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir Engine Oil If the CHECK OIL LEVEL message appears on the instrument cluster, it means you need to check your engine oil level right - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 371
Checking Engine Oil It's a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick has a yellow ring handle and is located in the engine compartment on the passenger's side - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 372
the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications on page 5- 106. The engine oil fill cap for the VORTEC 4800, 5300, 6000 and 8100 V8 engine is located on the engine valve cover, on the passenger's side of the vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 373
Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this starburst symbol. RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS HOT WEATHER 7 If youchoose I L to perform the engine oil change service yourself, be sure the oil you use has the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. If - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 374
to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage your engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. It is also important to check your - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 375
, 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. 1. Turn the ignition key to RUN with the engine off. 2. Fully - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 376
See Part B: Owner Checks and Services on page 6IO to determine when to check the indicator. The service window A with the percentage scale shows the amount of engine air cleanedfilter life used. When both service window A and service window B turn orange, replace the engine air cleaner/filter. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 377
cleaner/filter. 5. Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the engine air cleaner/filter. See Part B: To replace the engine air cleaner/filter do the following: 1. Loosen the screws on the cover of the housing and lift up the cover - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 378
vehicle's GVWR is not over 8,600 and you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, change the fluid and filter every 100,000 miles (166 000 km). See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4. While pulling a trailer. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 379
the handle up and then pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). With your foot on the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 380
lock the dipstick in place. How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-16. Add fluid only after checking a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating on page 5-30. 5-27 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 381
Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights and gages work as they should. Notice: When adding radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. Notice: - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 382
Checking Coolant The coolant surge tank is located in the engine compartment on the passenger's side of the vehicle. See Engine Compantment Overview on page 5-74 for more information on location. The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 383
to prevent coolant and possible engine damage from overheating. See "Capacities and Specifications" for more information. If an overheated engine condition exists and the REDUCED ENGINE POWER message is displayed, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 384
hood.Stay away from the engineif you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get CAUTION: (Continued) Notice; If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would notbe covered by your warranty.See - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 385
Low Coolant under DlC Warnings and Messages on page 3-62. If you get an engine overheat warning with no low coolant message, but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 386
Cooling System When you decide it's safe to lift the hood, here's what you'll see: All Other Engines A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap 8100 V8 Engines C. EngineFan If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, don't do anything else until it cools down. The - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 387
by pushing the accelerator pedal down. If it doesn't, your vehicle needs service. Turn off the engine. Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn't covered by your warranty. See "Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode" in the Index for information on driving to a safe - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 388
to the Coolant Surge Tank If you haven't found a problem yet, check to see if coolant is visible in the surge tank. cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it. See Engine Coolant on page 5-27 for more information. If no coolant is visible in the surge tank - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 389
of clean, drinkable water and DEX COOL@coolant. You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol are hot and it will burn if the engine parts enough. Don't spill coolant on a hotengine. 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface. You can remove the coolant - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 390
mixture, to the FULL COLD mark. 5. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 391
go away as the fan clutch partially disengages. Power Steering Fluid Engine Fan Noise Your 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 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 392
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. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-74 for reservoir location. How to Check Power Steering Fluid - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 393
later your brakes won't work well, or won't work at all. Notice: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding water. Don't mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 394
off the cap. If you have too much brake fluid,it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle couldbe damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. See "Checking Brake Fluid" in this section - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 395
keep dirt from entering the reservoir. Notice: Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, suchas engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they'll have to be replaced. Don't let someone put in - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 396
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 397
get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery's label. We recommend an ACDelco@ battery. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-14 for battery location. Warning: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 398
parking brake firmly on both vehicle. 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or in the accessory power outlets. Turn off the radio and all the lamps that aren't needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 399
on the battery. The remote positive (+) terminal is located behind a red plastic cover near the engine accessory drive bracket. you need more light. Be sure the battery has enoughwater. You don't need to addwater to the ACDelco@ battery installed in your new vehicle. But a if battery has filler - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 400
you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running. 6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 5. Check that the jumper cables don't have loose or - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 401
metal part, or 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 won't start after a few tries, it probably needs service. Nofice - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 402
the red positive (+) cable from the other vehicle. 5. Return the positive (+) remote terminal cover to its original position. 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 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 403
bottom of the filler plug hole. Use care not to overtighten the plug. Transfer Case When to Check Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections on page 6-14. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 404
the lubricant. See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4. How to Check Lubricant The proper level for the 1500 Series is from 5/8 inch to 1 5/8 inch (15 mm to 40 mm) below the bottom of the filler plug hole. The proper level for the 2500 Series is from 0 to 1/2 inch (0 to 13 mm) below - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 405
bottom of the filler plug hole. Use care not to overtighten the plug. Transfer Case When to Check Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections on page 6-14. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 406
to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4. To get an accurate reading, the of the filler plug hole. How to Check Lubricant What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 407
gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. 1. Your vehicle is equipped with two pins, remove the two pins on the top of the headlamp assembly. To remove the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 408
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Daytime Running Lamps A. Low-BeamHeadlamp B. High-BeamHeadlamp 2. Pull the headlamp assembly out. 3. Unplug the electrical connector. 4. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise and remove it from the headlamp assembly. A. B. C. D. SidemarkerLamp Retainer Clip Front - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 409
bulb socket into the turn signal housing and turn it clockwise until it locks. Roof Marker Lamps 1. Remove the two screws and lift off the 9. Put the headlamp assembly back into the vehicle. Side Identification Marker Lamps 1. To expose the service slot, locate the lamp gasket near the rear wheel, - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 410
4. Put a new bulb into the socket and turn clockwise until it locks in place. I 2. Remove the six screws on the center roof marker lamps. 3. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise to remove it from the socket. 5-57 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 411
Taillamps A. Turn Signal Lamp 6. Back-upLamp C. Stoplamp I 5. Reinstall the lens and tighten the screws. 1. Use a tool to remove the two screws from the lamp assembly. 5-58 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 412
2. Remove the lamp assembly. 3. Press the release tab and turn the bulb socket counterclockwiseto remove it from the taillamp housing. 4. Pull the old bulb straight out from the socket. Replacement Bulbs -Exterior Lamp Lamp High-Beam Headlamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL Front Roof Marker Lamp - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 413
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 5- 109. To replace the windshield wiper blade assembly do the following: 1. Lift the wiper arm and turn the blade until it is facing away from the windshield. 2. Push the release lever and slide the wiper assembly toward the driver's side of the vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 414
obtain service, see your warranty booklet for details. atedtirespose I samedanger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See "Loading Your Vehicle" in the Index. CAUTION: ( - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 415
the rear edge of the driver's door, shows the correct inflation air (underinflation), you can get the following: Too muchflexing 0 When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Also, check the tire pressure of the spare tire. How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 416
wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See "Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services," in Section 6, for scheduled rotation intervals- Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on tightened. See "Wheel Nut Torque" under Capacities and Specifications on page 5-106. 5-63 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 417
way to tell when it's time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle. If your tires have an all-season tread design, the TPC - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 418
Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 419
on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 420
nuts for replacement. Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire chain clearance to the body and chassis. See Changing a Flat Tire on page 5-70 for - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 421
enoughclearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension or other vehicle parts. The area damaged bythe tire chains could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and you or others may be injured in a crash. Use another type of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 422
manufacturer's instructions. If you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop - well off the road if possible. If a tire goes flat, the next part - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 423
moving: 1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put an automatic transmission shift lever in PARK (P), or shift a manual transmission to FIRST (1) or REVERSE engine. Put the wheel blocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 424
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools / A B C TahoeNukon Models (Rear Access Panel) SuburbanNukon XL Models A. Tool Kit with Jack Tools B. Bracket and Wing Nut C. Wheel Block Wing Nut D. Tire Blocks E. Jack A. Bottle Jack B.Wheel Blocks C. Wing Nut D.Mounting Bracket E. RemovableTray F. Retaining - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 425
by turning the wing nut counterclockwise. A. Hoist Assembly B. Wheel Wrench C. Jack Handle Extensions D. Hoist Shaft E. Valve Stem, Pointed Down F. Spare Tire 5-72 G. TireRetainer H.HoistCable I. Hoist Lock (If Equipped) J. Hoist Shaft Access Hole K. Hoist End of Extension Tool - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 426
Follow these instructions to lower the spare tire: 1. If the vehicle is equipped with a hoist lock, open the spare tire lock cover on the bumper and use the ignition key to remove the lock. 2. Assemble the wheel wrench and the two jack handle extensions as shown. Insert the hoist end (open end) of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 427
is exposed. 6. Stand the wheel blocks on their shortest ends, with the backs facing each other. 1. Check under the vehicle to see if the cable end is visible. 2. If it is not visible proceed to the vehicle towards the front of the rear bumper. Position the center lift point of the jack under the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 428
hoist handle, extension and wheel wrench into the hoist shaft hole in the bumper and turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare the rest of the the vehicle, turn the wheel wrench in the hoist shaft hole in the bumper clockwise to raise the cable back up. 10. Continue raising the jack - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 429
The tools you'll be using include the bottle jack (A), the wheel blocks (B), the jack handle (C), the jack handle extensions (D), and the wheel wrench (E). If the flat tire is on the rear of the vehicle, you'll need to use both jack handle extensions. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack handle - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 430
vehicle has wheel nut caps, loosen them by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. If you have a center cap with wheel nut caps, the wheel nut caps are designed to remain with the center cap. Remove the center cap. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the jack lift head to the lifting point - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 431
of the vehicle, position the jack on the frame behind the flat tire where the frame sections overlap. On all 1500 series vehicles, use the jacking pad provided on the rear axle. On 2500 series vehicles, use the axle between the spring and shock. If you have added a snow plow to the front - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 432
is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slipsoff the jack you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 433
4. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. Rear Position 1500 Series Rear Position 2500 Series 3. Make sure the jack head is positioned so that the rear axle is resting securely between the grooves that are on the jack head. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 434
Rust or dirt on thewheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheelcould come off and cause an accident. When you change a - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 435
- 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 436
specification. Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. See "Capacities and Specifications" in the index for the wheel nut - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 437
the wheel opening. Make sure the retainer is fully seated across the underside of the wheel. 3. Attach the wheel wrench and extensions together. Insert the hoist end through the hole in the rear bumper and into the hoist shaft. 4. Raise the tire part way upward. When the tire is almost in the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 438
turn the tire. If the tire moves, use the wheel wrench to tighten the cable. Put back the jack, tools and spare tire lock (if equipped). A. Hoist Assembly B. WheelWrench C.JackHandle Extensions D. Hoist Shaft E. Valve Stem, Pointed Down F. Flat or Spare Tire G. Tire Retainer H. Hoist Cable 5-85 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 439
in the base of the jack onto the pin in the mounting bracket. For Suburban/Yukon XL models do the following: 1. Return the tool kit (jack tools hook. 3. Position under the jack storage tray in the left rear side panel below the wheelbase and tighten, adjusting clockwise until the jack is secured - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 440
inflated spare tire. A spare tire may lose air over time, so check its inflation pressure regularly, See Inflation -- Tire Pressure on page 5-62 and "Loading Your Vehicle" for information regarding proper tire inflation and loading your vehicle. For instruction on how to remove, install or store - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 441
to follow the manufacturer's warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you're cleaning the inside. They can all be hazardous - some more than others -and they can all damage your vehicle, too. Don't use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses, these - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 442
of fabric and carpet. They will clean Wipe with a clean cloth and let dry. Special Fabric Cleaning Problems Stains caused by such things as catsup, coffee (black), egg, a stain remains, follow the cleaner instructions described earlier. Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. Clean up - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 443
. Sprays containing silicones or waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions. Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You may have to do this more than once. Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 444
page 6- 16. Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under "Washing Your Vehicle." Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth of - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 445
clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that auto or chrome polish, steam or caustic soap to clean aluminum. A coating of wax, rubbed to high polish, is recommended for all bright metal parts Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary; replace - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 446
avaliable from your dealer or other service outlets. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your dealer's body and paint shop. Tires To removal and dust control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur on the underbody parts such as - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 447
surface. Although no defect in the paint job causes this, GM will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within 12 months or whitewalls. Cleans vinyl tops, upholstery and convertible tops. Removes dirt, grime, smoke and finqerprints. I 5-94 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 448
. GM Vehicle CarelAppearance Materials (cont'd) Description Usage Medium foaming shampoo. Cleans and lightly waxes. Biodegradable and phosphate free. Quickly and easily removes spots and stains from carpets, vinyl and cloth upholstery. Odorless spray odor eliminator used on fabrics, vinyl, leather - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 449
driver's side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts labels and the certificates of title and registration. Engine Identification The 8th character in your VIN is the engine code. This code - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 450
unless you check with yourdealer first Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-79. Power Windows and Other Power Options Circuit breakers protect the power windows and other power accessories chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 451
block access door. These can be used to replace a bad fuse. However, make sure it is of the correct amperage. CB LTDOORS I I Usage Special Equipment Option Accessorv Fuses RR Wiper Rear Window Wiper Switch SEO ACCY 1 TBC ACCY I I IGN 3 Truck Body Controller Accessorv I Ignition, Seats Heated - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 452
Battery Climate Control System Power Door Lock Relay (Lock Function) Inside Rearview Mirror, Climate Control Svstem Driver's Door Harness Connection I Cruise Control I Power Door Lock Relay IUnlock Function) Rear Fog Lamp (Export Only) Anti-Lock Brake Svstem Power Door Lock Relay (Driver's Door - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 453
Fuse Block The center instrument panel utility block is located underneath the instrument panel, to the left of the steering column. Device SEO TRAILER UPFIT SL RIDE lUsage EauiPment I SPecial OPtion I ' ITrailer Wiring Brake I , I UDfitter (Not Used) Ride Control Harness Connection Headliner - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 454
underhood fuse block in the engine compartment on the driver's side of the vehicle near the battery. Lift the cover for access to the fuse/relay block. To remove fuses, hold the end of the fuse between your thumb and index finger and pull straight out. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-14 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 455
I U - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 456
Center Power Feed, Front Seats, Right Doors Front Climate Control Fan Left Bussed Electrical Center, Door Modules, Door Locks, Auxiliary Power Outlet-Rear Cargo Area and Instrument Panel Usage Accessory PowerRrailer Wiring Brake Feed Anti-Lock Brakes Vehicle Stability lqnition Power Ignition Power - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 457
Road Lamps Vent Solenoid Canister/QUADRASTEERTM Module Power Rear Climate Control Auxiliary Power Outlet - Console I Ignition Relay I Powertrain Control Module Electronic Throttle Control, Electronic Brake Controller Instrument Panel Cluster, Air Conditioning Relay, Turn SignaVHazard Switch, Starter - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 458
Horn Air conditioning Compressor Relav Horn Air Conditioning Compressor Relav Rear Wiper/Washer I Audio I Mid Bussed Electrical Center, HomeLink, Rear Heated Seats I Pump OnStar/Rear Seat Entertainment I Radio Amplifier Not Used I I I I INFO I RADIO AMP I RH HID Brake Transmission Shift Horn - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 459
I 0.060 inches (15 2 mm) Torque 140 Ib ft (190 Nom) 140 Ib ft (190 Nom) I Wheels and Tires Model C/K 1500 2500 Tire Pressure Description 6 bolts (14 mm) 8 bolts (14 mm) C/K See the CertificationRire label on the rear edge of the driver's door or the incomplete vehicle document in the cab. 5-106 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 460
After refill, the level must be rechecked. See Cooling System on page 5-33. Cooling System Capacity *Vehicles equipped with the optional air conditioner. **Vehicles equipped with the optional engine oil cooler. Add one liter if equipped with rear heating for all engines. 5-107 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 461
Capacities Capacities Application Engine Oil with Filter VORTEC 4800 V8 VIN V VORTEC 5300 V8 VIN T VORTEC 5300 V8 VIN Z (E-85) VORTEC 6000 V8 VIN U VORTEC 8100 V8 VIN G Fuel Tank Capacity TahoeNukon SuburbanNukon XL (1500 Series) SuburbanNukon XL (2500 Series) Air Conditioning Refrigerant Capacity - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 462
only. If you have any questions, see the service manual for the chassis or refer to the body manufacturer's publications. Normi31 Maintenance Replacement Parts I I VIN Code Oil Filter* Engine Air Cleaner /Filter* Passenger Compartment Air Filter Kit** I 1 V I T PF44 A I 519 C t 52485513 cv200 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 463
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts (cont'd) VIN Code Wiper Blades (Front)** Wiper Blade Type (Front) Wiper (45.0 cm) (45.0 cm) Length (Rear) "ACDelco part number **GM part number ***Denso part number tA1518C high-capacity air cleaner filter may be substituted. ttSpark Plug Gap is 0.060 inches - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 464
the Environment ...6-2 Maintenance Requirements ...6 . 2 How This Section is Organized ...6-3 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services ...6.4 Using Your Maintenance Schedule ...-6-4 Scheduled Maintenance ...6.5 Part B: Owner Checks and Services ...6-10 At Each Fuel Fill ...6-10 At Least Once a Month - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 465
help protect our environment, and to keep your vehicle in good condition, please maintain your vehicle properly. Maintenance Requirements Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections and recommended fluids and lubricants as prescribed in this manual are necessary to keep your vehicle in good working - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 466
your dealer's servicedepartment or another qualified service center do thesejobs. "Part B: Owner Checks and Services" tells you what should be checked and when. It also explains what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition. "Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections" explains - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 467
supported service people will perform the work using genuine GM parts. The proper fluids and lubricants to use are listed in Part D. Make sure whoever services your vehicle uses these. All parts may need more frequent checks and replacements. So please your vehicle in good condition, see your dealer - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 468
this vehicle. The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be repeated at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km) for the life of this vehicle. See Part B: Owner Checks andServices on page 6- 10 and Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections on page 6-14. Engine Oil and Chassis - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 469
brake cable guides. Ball joints should not be lubricated unless their temperature is 10°F (-1 2°C) or higher, or they could be damaged. After the services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service on the maintenance record pages in Part E of this schedule. Check - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 470
+-) 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 0 Inspect engine air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote t.) 0 Check readfront axle fluid level and add fluid as needed. Check constant velocity joints and axle seals for leaking - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 471
0 Replace fuel filter. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote f.) 0 Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. u Inspect Evaporative Control System. Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper hook-up, routing and condition. Check that the purge valve works properly - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 472
60 months since last service, whichever occurs first). See Engine Coolant on page 5-27 for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck. Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap. An Emission Control Service. 0 Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An Emission - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 473
. See Engine Oil on page 5-77 for further details. At Least Twice a Year Restraint System Check Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 474
the Outside of Your Vehicle onpage 5-91. At Least Once a Year Key Lock Cylinders Service Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant specified in Part D. Spare Tire Check At least twice a year, after the monthly inflation check of the spare tire determines that the spare is inflated to the - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 475
Shift Lock Control System Check When you are d_..rgthis chec.., the v , I could move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 476
in PARK (P). The key should come out only in LOCK. Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and transmission in NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 477
system. Inspect the body near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, missing or out-of-position parts as well as open seams, holes, loose connections or other conditions which could cause a heat build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into the vehicle. See Engine Exhaust on page - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 478
Every 12 months or at engine oil change intervals, check front axle and transfer case and add lubricant when necessary. A fluid loss could indicate a problem; check and have it repaired, if needed. On manual shift transfer case,oil the control lever pivot point. Check vent hose at transfer case - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 479
-COOL Engine Coolant Coolant. See Engine Coolant on page 5-27. Hydraulic Brake Delco Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or System equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid. Windshield GM Optikleen Washer Solvent or WasherSolvent equivalent. GM Power Steering Flui Power 1052884, in d (GM993294, Part No. U.S. System Canada or - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 480
. Dexron-Ill Automatic Transmission Fluid. Usage Hood Hinges Outer Tailgate Handle Pivot Points Weatherstrip 'Onditioning AUTO-TRAK II Fluid (GM Part Automatic Transfer Case No. U.S. 12378508, in Canada 10953626). Front Axle Propshaft Spline or Spline Lubricant, Special Lubricant One-Piece (GM - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 481
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service and any additional information from "Owner Checks and Services" or "Periodic Maintenance" on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 482
Maintenance Record (cont'd) 6-19 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 483
Maintenance Record (cont'd) Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance Record 6-20 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 484
Roadside Assistance Program ...7.6 Courtesy Transportation ...7.8 Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government ...7.10 Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government ...7-11 Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors ...7-11 Service Publications Ordering Information ...7-11 7- 1 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 485
been reviewed with the sales, service or parts manager, contact the owner of the dealership or When contacting Chevrolet, please remember that your help, contact the Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center by calling 1-800-222-1 020. In Canada, contact GM of Canada Customer Communication Centre in - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 486
in Steps One and Two, you should file with the GM/BBB Auto Line Program to enforce any additional rights you may have. Canadian the toll-free telephone number or write them at the following address: BBB Auto Line Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. 4200 Wilson Boulevard Suite 800 Arlington, - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 487
owner's manual. Keep track of your vehicle's service history and maintenance schedule. Find GM dealers for service nationwide. Chevrolet has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with Chevrolet by dialing: 1-800-833-CHEV (2438). (TTY users in Canada - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 488
000 toward aftermarket driver or passenger adaptive equipment you may require for your vehicle (hand controls, wheelchair/scooter your dealer for more details or call the GM Mobility Assistance Center at 1-800-323-9935. Text telephone (TTY) users, call 1-800-833-9935. GM of Canada also has a Mobility - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 489
for customers needing warranty service. Courtesy Transportation will be offered in conjunction with the coverage provided by the Bumper-to-Bumper New VehicleLimited Warranty to eligible purchasers of 2003 Chevrolet passenger cars and light duty trucks. (See your selling dealer for details.) - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 490
retail lease customers operating 2003 and newer Chevrolet vehicles for a period of 3 years/36,000 miles (60 000 km), whichever occurs first. All Courtesy Care services must be pre-arranged by Chevrolet Roadside or dealer service management. Basic Care and Courtesy Care are not part of or included in - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 491
, keep driving it until it can be scheduled for service, unless, of course, the problem is safety-related. If it is, please call your dealership, let them know this, and ask for instructions. If the dealer requests that you simply drop the vehicle off for service, you are urged to do so as early - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 492
Options Warranty service can generally be completed while you wait. However, if you are unable to wait Chevrolet helps minimize your you obtained, at actual cost, up to a maximum of $30.00 per day supported by receipts. This requires that you sign and complete a rental agreement and meet state, - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 493
General Motors. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer or General - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 494
may write to: Transport Canada 330 Sparks Street Tower C Ottawa Ontario K1A ON5 Service Publications Ordering Information Service Manuals Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc. RETAIL SELL PRICE - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 495
instructions to assist in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle. In Canada, information pertaining to Product Service Includes a Portfolio, Owner's Manual, and Warranty Booklet. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00 Without Portfolio: Owner's Manual only. RETAIL SELL PRICE: checks payable in U.S. funds. - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 496
to the 2003 Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban, r's Manual Passenger Sensing System Accident statistics showthat children aresafer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. General Motors, therefore, recommends that child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including an - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 497
is present in a booster seat a right front passenger takes hislher weight off of the seat for a period of time the right front passenger seat is occupied by a smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints or if there is a critical problem with the air bag system or the passenger - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 498
...1-70 Air Cleaner/Filter,Engine ...5-22 All Overseas Locations ...7-5 All-Wheel Drive ...5-50 All-Wheel Drive withStabilitrak@ ...2-32 Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels ...5-93 AM ...3-125 AM-FM Radio ...3-71 3-128 Antenna, Fixed Mast ...Antenna, XMTMSatellite Radio System ...3-128 Anti-lock Brake - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 499
Battery Replacement ...Battery Run-Down Protection ...Battery Warning Light ...Before Leaving on a Long Trip ...2 4-68 5-44 3-63 2-6 3-18 3-40 4-43 3-113 Before You Drive ...Bench Seat ...1-14 1-10 Bench Seat Split (50/50) ...Bench Seat, Split (60/40) ...1-8 Body Lubrication Service ...6-11 Brake - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 500
Tape Player Service ...6-10 CDAdapter Kits ...3-96 Center Console Storage Area ...2-57 Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block ...5-100 Center Passenger Position, Safety Belts ...1-36 5-68 Chains, Tires ...3-62 CHANGE ENGINE OIL ...Check EngineLight ...3-46 Check Engine Light ...3-46 CHECK OIL LEVEL - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 501
...5-91 2-45 Cleaning the Mirror ...Climate Control Dual Automatic ...3-24 Climate Control System ...3-20 3-21 Dual ...Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System ...3-31 Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System, Electronic ...3-33 3-30 Rear Air Conditioning System ...Compact Disc Messages ...3-84 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 502
Breakers ...5-97 Power Windows and Other Power Options ...5-97 Windshield Wiper Fuses ...5-97 Electrochromic Mirror Operation ...2.43, 2-46 Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs ...3-48 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ...5-22 Battery ...5-44 Check and Service Engine Soon Light ...3-46 Coolant - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 503
Engine Oil Level Check ...6-10 3-63 ENGINEOVERHEATED ...Entering or Exiting the Third Row Seats ...1-8 Entertainment System Cleaning the Video Screen ...3-127 DVD Distortion ...3-125 Entry Lighting Transmission ...5-25 Power Steering ...5-38 Light ...3-50 Front Axle ...5-53 Front Axle Locking - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 504
...2-53 Garage Opener Door Gasoline Octane ...5-5 Specifications ...5-6 GateOperator and Canadian Programming ...2-55 Glass Surfaces ...5-90 2-57 GloveBox ...GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities ...7-5 G Bulbs 3-44 3-51 3-49 3-37 3-37 3-44 3-40 Gage Engine Coolant Temperature ...Fuel - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 505
27 How to Check ...5-25, 5-62 How to Check Lubricant ...5-51 How to Check Power Steering Fluid ...5-39 How to Use This Manual ...ii How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ...1-27 Hydroplaning ...4-40 Inspection BrakeSystem ...Engine Cooling System ...ExhaustSystem ...Fuel System ...Part C - Periodic - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 506
...2-12 Level Control ...4-57 Power Door ...2-9 Liftgate ...2-1Programmable 3 Automatic Door Locks ...2-10 Liftgate Glass and Liftgate ...2-13 Rear Door Security Locks ...2-12 Light of Control ...4-21 Air Bag Readiness ...3-38 LOW COOLANT LEVEL ...3-62 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ...3-42 - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 507
10 Brake System Inspection ...6-15 Engine Cooling System Inspection ...6-14 ExhaustSystem Inspection ...6-14 Fuel System Inspection ...6-14 How This Section is Organized ...6-3 Introduction ...6-2 Maintenance Requirements ...6-2 Part A - Scheduled Maintenance Services ...6-4 Part B - Owner Checks - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 508
Doors ...2-14 Park (P) Shifting Out of ...2-38 Parking ...2-35 Brake ...Over Things That Burn ...2-39 Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission Park (P) Mechanism Check ...6-13 Parking on Hills ...4-69 Park(P) Shifting Into ...2-36 Part A - Scheduled Maintenance Services ...6-4 Part 6 - Owner Checks - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 509
...3.71. 3.75. 3.86. 3-100 Power Accessory Outlets ...3-18 DoorLocks ...2-9 Electrical System ...5-97 Lumbar Controls ...1-4 Seat ...1-4 Steering Fluid ...5-38 Windows ...2-16 Power Steering ...4-14 Power Winches ...4-73 Programmable Automatic Door Locks ...2-10 Programming the HomeLink Transmitter - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 510
Rear Air Conditioning and Heating System and ElectronicClimateControls ...3-33 Rear Air Conditioning System ...3-30 Rear Axle ...5-51 Locking ...4-1 1 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ...1-41 Rear Seat Audio ...3-122 Rear Seat Audio Controls ...3-123 Rear Seat Entertainment System ...3-1 13 Rear Seat - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 511
Center Rear Seat Position ...1-61 Designed for the LATCHSystem ...1-59 1-59 Rear Outside Seat Position ...Right Front Seat Position ...1-64 Select Button ...3-62 Self-Adjusting ...4-57 Service ...5-3 Adding Equipment to the Outside ofYour Vehicle ...5-4 Doing YourOwnWork ...5-4 Engine Soon Light - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 512
Starter Switch Check ...6-12 Starting Your Engine ...2-22 Steering ...4-14 Steering and SuspensionInspection ...6-14 Steering in Emergencies ...4-15 4-14 Steering Tips ...Steering Wheel Controls. Audio ...3-124 Step-Bumper Pad ...4-73 Stereo RCA Jacks ...3-1 19 Storage Areas Center Console Storage - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 513
Wheel ...3-6 Tilting the 50/50 Split Bench Seat ...1-11 Tilting the Bench Seat ...1-15 Tire Inflation Check ...6-10 Tires ...5-61, 5-93 Buying the Engine Coolant Heater ...2-24 Top of the Instrument Panel ...5-90 Top Strap ...1-53 Top Strap Anchor Location ...1-54 Torque Lock ...2-38 Total Weight on - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 514
Manual Seat ...2-61 ...5-44 Vehicle Storage Video Screen ...3-1 16 Vinyl ...5-90 Visors ...2-17 VoltmeterGage ...3-40 Underbody Flushing Service Control ...Damage Warnings ... 4-6 iv 3-35 Warning Lights. 11 Weight of the Trailer ...4-62 4-64 Weight of the Trailer Tongue ...What Kind of Engine Oil - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 515
Engine Oil (GM Oil Life SystemTM) ...When to Check ...When to CheckandChange ...When to Check Lubricant ...When to CheckPower Steering Fluid ...When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill ...Where to Put the Restraint ...Why Safety Belts Work ...Windows ...Manual ...Power ...Windshield - 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | Owner's Manual - Page 516
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