2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup Owner's Manual
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup Manual
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup manual content summary:
- 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 1
2004 GMC Sierra Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ...1-1 Front Seats ...1-3 Rear Seats ...1-9 Safety Belts ...1-11 Child Restraints ...1-33 Air Bag Systems ...1-70 Restraint System Check ...1-87 Features and Controls ...2-1 Keys ...2-3 Doors and Locks ...2-8 Windows ...2-16 Theft-Deterrent - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 2
GMC, the GMC Truck Emblem and the name SIERRA are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual, and the page number where you will find it. Litho in U.S.A. Part - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 3
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," "Don't do this" or "Don't let this happen." {CAUTION: These mean there is something that could hurt you or other - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 4
vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in Controls in Section 2 Instrument Panel Overview in Section 3 Climate Controls in Section 3 Warning Lights - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 5
These are some examples of symbols you may find on your vehicle: v - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 6
Model Reference This manual covers these models: Regular Cab Pickup Extended Cab Pickup Crew Cab® Chassis Cab vi - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 7
a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position ...1-60 Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (Crew Cab) ...1-61 Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (Regular and Extended Cab) ...1-64 Front Seats ...1-3 Manual Seats ...1-3 Power Seats ...1-4 Power - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 8
1 Seats and Restraint Systems Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ...1-86 Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ...1-86 Restraint System Check ...1-87 Checking Your Restraint Systems ...1-87 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash ...1-88 Air Bag Systems ...1-70 Where Are - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 9
's seat only when the vehicle is not moving. If your vehicle 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 10
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 of the horizontal control. • Move the seat forward or rearward by moving the whole horizontal - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 11
in an area of the lower seatback. To increase support, press and hold the front of the control. To decrease support, press and hold the rear of the control. Let go of the control when the lower seatback reaches the desired level of support. You can also reshape the side wing area of the lower - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 12
vehicle, you will need to press the heated seat button again. 1-6 To adjust the front seatback, lift the manual lever located on the outboard side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Lift the lever again without pushing on the seatback and the seatback will go to - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 13
don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly. 1-7 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 14
in your vehicle may be adjustable. They work the same as the front seat head restraints, except they do not tilt forward and rearward. some models the head restraints tilt forward and rearward also. To fold a front seatback forward, lift the lever at the base of the seat to release the seatback. The - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 15
seat. Either side of the rear seat may be folded down to give you more cargo space. Make sure that nothing is under or in front of the seat and that the head restraints are completely lowered. 2. Fold the seat cushion upward until it latches with the seatback. 3. Push and pull - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 16
seat to the passenger position do the following: 1. Lift the seatback up and push it rearward all the side seatback are accessible to the outboard and center occupant and are not under the seat cushions cushion, try moving the front seat forward and/or bringing the front seat more upright. The lever - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 17
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly passengers' belts are fastened properly too. Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. See Safety Belt Reminder Light on page 3-36. In most states and in all Canadian - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 18
A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up, a person wouldn't survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 30 years of - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 19
Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop. 1-13 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 20
The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... or the instrument panel... 1-14 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 21
and get out, is much greater if you are belted. Q: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to wear safety belts? or the safety belts! With strongest bones take the forces. That's why safety belts make such good sense. A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in most of them in the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 22
Wear Safety Belts Properly This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are driver doesn't protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within belts are for everyone. Driver Position This part describes the driver's restraint system. Lap - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 23
't let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly. 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 24
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, 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 25
if your shoulder 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. 1-19 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 26
Q: What's wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 27
Q: What's wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 28
Q: What's wrong with this? {CAUTION: 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 chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 29
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. 1-23 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 30
. To unlatch the belt, just 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 31
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 rear seat position of a crew cab you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 32
or in the center front seat position of either a crew cab or an extended cab or regular cab, you have a lap belt. To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 33
't let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly. 1-27 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 34
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 long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 35
your shoulder 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. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 36
positions the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger in the rear seat. Here's how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt: 1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the interior body. To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 37
2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The guide must be on top of the belt. 1-31 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 38
belt as described in Rear Seat Passengers on page 1-27. Make sure that the 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 39
Child Restraints Older Children Q: A: What is the proper way to wear safety belts? If possible, an older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 40
the child is sitting in a rear outside seat position, move the child toward the center of the vehicle. See Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults on page 1-30. If the child is sitting in the center rear seat position of a crew cab, move the child toward the safety belt - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 41
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 this way includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 42
Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have the protection provided by appropriate restraints. Young children should not use the vehicle's adult safety belts alone, unless there is no other choice. Instead, they need to use a child restraint. {CAUTION: People should - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 43
belts offer outstanding protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle's safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Q: What are the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 44
. The restraint manufacturer's instructions that come with the infants need complete support, including support for the head 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 of an infant's body, the back - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 45
or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant's head rests toward the center of the vehicle. A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 46
-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child's body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as 's safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high-back booster seats have a five-point harness. A booster seat can also help a child to see - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 47
child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An attached to a flat pad which rests low against the child's body. A shelf- or instructions that come with the restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 48
front passenger seat unless the air bag is off. Here is why: CAUTION: (Continued) Even though the passenger sensing system and/or air bag off switch are designed to turn off the passenger's frontal air bag under certain conditions right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 49
center position, be sure to study the instructions that came with your child restraint to see if there is enough room to secure your seat properly. If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system and/or the air bag off switch and you need to secure a rear-facing child restraint in the right front - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 50
the top strap 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. 1-44 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 51
find the top strap anchor for the right front passenger seat behind the seat, near the fl child restraint with a top strap in the right front passenger position because there is no place to anchor right front passenger position located on the back panel of your vehicle, behind the right front passenger - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 52
be ready to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer's instructions say. anchors, each seating position has a fabric loop at the top of the seatback that you'll attach the top strap to the anchor point at the center rear seating position. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 53
Models) When using a child restraint with a top strap in the center rear position, route the top strap through the fabric loop on the itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer's instructions say. If your vehicle is a Crew Cab model, you'll find top strap anchors - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 54
have to remove the trim plugs covering them. There are also anchorage points at the rear base of the front passenger's seat. Lower Anchorages and Top the front passenger and the center rear seating positions for extended cab models. For regular cab models, you will find anchors for the right front - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 55
In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you need a child restraint designed for that system. 1-49 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 56
for the seating position you want to use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the back of the seat cushion. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3. Attach and tighten secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. 1-50 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 57
this, including important safety information and illustrations of alternate switch designs. CAUTION: (Continued) Even though the passenger sensing system and/or air bag off switch are designed to turn off the passenger's frontal air bag under certain conditions, no system is fail-safe, and no one - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 58
to secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat position, move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. See Manual Seats on page 1-3 or Power Seats on page 1-4. In addition to the air bag off switch, your vehicle may have the passenger - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 59
air bag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on when you have turned off the air bag, it means that something may be wrong with the air bag system. The right front passenger's air bag could inflate even though the switch is off. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 60
that the passenger sensing system has not turned off the passenger's frontal air bag. A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger's air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the in - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 61
front passenger's air bag is turned off for a person who isn't in a risk group identified by the national government, that person won't have the extra protection of an air bag. In a crash, the air , be sure to study the instructions that came with your child restraint to see if there is enough - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 62
2. Pick up the latch plate and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 63
the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 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 a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 64
back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Crew Cab When you secure a child restraint in the center cab model, especially in the rear center seat position, be sure to study the instructions that came with your child restraint - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 65
pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Run the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 66
restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position Don't use child restraints in this position. The restraints won't work properly. 1-60 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 67
the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger's frontal air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. See Manual Seats on page 1-3 or Power Seats on page 1-4. 2. Put - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 68
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 had to. 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 1-62 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 69
6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 70
this, including important safety information and illustrations of alternate switch designs. CAUTION: (Continued) Even though the passenger sensing system and/or air bag off switch are designed to turn off the passenger's frontal air bag under certain conditions, no system is fail-safe, and no one - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 71
-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger's air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Be sure the air bag is off before using a rear-facing child restraint in the right - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 72
air bag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on when you have turned off the air bag, it means that something may be wrong with the air bag system. The right front passenger's air bag could inflate even though the switch is off. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 73
3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 4. Buckle the belt. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 74
START. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the air bag is off. If a child restraint has been installed shoulder belt to tighten the lap belt portion and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 75
that the passenger sensing system has not turned off the passenger's frontal air bag. A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger's air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the in - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 76
Bag Systems This part explains the air bag system. Your vehicle has air bags - one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating frontal air bag. But these air bags must inflate - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 77
, but CAUTION: (Continued) There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Air Bag Readiness Light on page 3-36 for more - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 78
Where Are the Air Bags? The right front passenger's air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side. The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. 1-72 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 79
bag, and don't attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering. 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 rough terrain. As always, wear your safety - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 80
the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag, and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger. Seat Position Sensors Vehicle's with dual stage air bags are also equipped with special - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 81
quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module - the steering wheel hub for the driver's air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger's bag - will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 82
you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. Notice: If you damage the covering for the driver's or the right front passenger's air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 83
United States with Passenger Sensing System United States without Passenger Sensing System 1-77 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 84
Canada with Passenger Sensing System Canada without Passenger Sensing System This switch should only be turned to AIR BAG OFF if the person in the right front passenger's position is a member of a passenger risk group identified by the national government as follows: Infant. An infant (less than 1 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 85
which, according to the child's physician, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child's condition. {CAUTION: If the right front passenger's air bag is turned off for a person who isn't in a risk group identified by the national - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 86
will come on to let you know that the right front passenger's air bag is off. The right front passenger's air bag will remain off until you turn it back on again, and the AIR BAG OFF light will stay on to remind you that the air bag is off. United States with Passenger Sensing System United States - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 87
To turn the right front passenger's air bag on again, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the ON or AUTO position. Passenger Sensing System If your rearview mirror has one of the indicators pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has a passenger - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 88
child restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the air bag is off. Passenger 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 is not part of the passenger sensing system - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 89
-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger's air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Be sure the air bag is off before using a rear-facing child restraint in the right - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 90
light and stay lit to remind you that the air bag is active. 1-84 For some children who have outgrown child restraints and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the right front passenger's frontal air bag, depending upon the person's seating posture and body - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 91
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, including important safety information. Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, can - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 92
are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance. Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle's frame, bumper system, front end sheet - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 93
to get my vehicle modified. How can I find out whether this will affect my advanced air bag system? A: Changing or moving any parts of the front seats, safety belts, the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (located under the driver's seat), or the inside rearview mirror can affect the operation of - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 94
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. {CAUTION: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 95
and Controls Starting and Operating Your Vehicle ...2-21 New Vehicle Break-In ...2-21 Ignition Positions ...2-22 Starting Your Engine ...2-23 Engine Coolant Heater ...2-25 Automatic Transmission Operation ...2-26 Manual Transmission Operation ...2-30 Four-Wheel Drive ...2-35 Parking Brake ...2-48 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 96
Box ...2-66 Cupholder(s) ...2-66 Front Storage Area ...2-67 Center Console Storage Area ...2-67 Tonneau Cover ...2-67 Vehicle Personalization ...2-69 Memory Seat ...2-69 Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass and Temperature Display ...2-57 Outside Manual Mirrors ...2-60 Outside Camper-Type - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 97
Keys {CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The children or others could be badly injured or even killed. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 98
and all door locks as Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this of your vehicle, call the GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6. If your - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 99
. • Check to determine if battery replacement or resynchronization is necessary. See "Battery Replacement" and "Resynchronization" under "Remote Keyless Entry System Operation" following this section. • If you are still having trouble, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service. 2-5 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 100
transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have a maximum of four transmitters matched to it. Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter. 2-6 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 101
and playing back the signal door locks should cycle to confirm synchronization. If the locks do not cycle, see your dealer for service. 1. Insert a dime, or similar object, in the slot between the covers battery with a three-volt CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up. 3. Align the covers - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 102
handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. • Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 103
vehicle is out of PARK (P), or for manual transmission, when the vehicle reaches 8 mph (24 km/h). To unlock the doors, refer to the instructions listed previously. The automatic locking feature can be disabled, if you prefer. See Programmable Automatic Door Locks on page 2-10 in the following text - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 104
that is pre-programmed in the factory for your vehicle for automatic transmission vehicles. Mode 2: All doors lock when the vehicle speed is greater than 8 mph (13 km/h). This is the mode that is pre-programmed in the factory for manual transmission vehicles. Mode 3: No automatic door locking. 2-10 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 105
for automatic transmission vehicles only. This is the mode that is pre-programmed in the factory for your vehicle. Mode 3: All doors unlock when the key is removed from the ignition This is the mode that is pre-programmed in the factory for manual transmission vehicles. Mode 4: No automatic door - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 106
The following instructions tell you how to change the automatic door unlock mode. Choose one of the four programming You can exit the program mode any time by turning the ignition to RUN. The doors will automatically lock and unlock and the horn will chirp twice to indicate that 2-12 you are - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 107
that allows easier access to the rear area of the extended cab. To open a rear access door from the outside, first open the front door. Then, use the handle located on the front edge of the rear access door to open it. Lockout Protection This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 108
To open a rear access door from the inside, the front door must be opened first. Then, use the handle located on the inside of the rear access door to open it. Tailgate You can open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle while pulling the tailgate toward you. To shut the tailgate, firmly push it - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 109
the tailgate slightly and release both retaining cable clips. To release the retaining cable clips, lift the cable so it points straight out and push the cable clip forward. 2. With the tailgate at a slight upward angle, pull back on the tailgate at the right edge and then move the tailgate to the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 110
even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. Manual Windows Turn the hand crank on each door to manually raise or lower the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 111
equipped with power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors in the front and rear. The driver's door has a switch for the passenger window as well. Your power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to ACCESSORY or RUN or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 112
. The lockout switch is located in front of the window switches. This feature prevents all windows from operating, except from the driver's position, when the driver's door button is engaged. To engage the lock-out feature press the switch, and an indicator light on the switch will illuminate. To - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 113
. If the delayed locking feature is active, the alarm will not be activated until all doors are closed and the security light goes off. 3. Close all doors. The security light will stop flashing and stay solid. The light should go off after approximately 30 seconds. The alarm is not armed until the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 114
, or with the remote keyless entry transmitter. 3. Get out of 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 115
page 5-126. See your dealer for service. In an emergency, call the GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6. km) or so. During this time your new brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 116
your ignition when the key is removed. The steering locks when equipped with a manual transmission. It is a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK B (ACCESSORY): This position allows you to use things like the radio, power windows and - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 117
and overhead console will work when the ignition key is in RUN or ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from RUN to LOCK, these features will continue to work for up to 10 minutes or until a door is opened. Starting Your Engine Automatic Transmission To remove the key on manual transmission vehicles - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 118
Manual Transmission The gear selector should be in neutral and the parking brake 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter. 2. If it doesn't start in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 119
15 amps. 4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don't, it could be damaged. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not required. 2-25 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 120
temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-49. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-70. Automatic Transmission Operation If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 121
. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Do not shift transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 122
. 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. If you manually select SECOND (2) in a light duty automatic transmission, the transmission will drive in second gear. You may use this - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 123
Tow/Haul Mode (Automatic Transmission) Overdrive Disable (Allison Transmission®) Your vehicle may be equipped with a indicator light illuminates on the instrument panel. See "Tow/Haul Mode″ under Towing a Trailer on page 4-70 for more information. If your vehicle has an Allison Transmission® you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 124
disable overdrive disable. Manual Transmission Operation Five-Speed (VORTEC™ 6000 V8 Engine) Here's how to operate your transmission. FIRST (1): Press the lever into NEUTRAL and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into SECOND (2). If you try to downshift into SECOND - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 125
clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL. NEUTRAL: Use this position when you start or idle your engine. REVERSE (R): To back up, first press while your vehicle is moving forward could damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 126
not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake, when turning off your engine and parking your vehicle. This six-speed pattern is unique to GM manual transmissions. The transmission always repositions - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 127
(2): With the vehicle at a stop, release the brake, press the clutch pedal and shift into SECOND (2). upshift into SECOND (2) from FIRST (1) while applying light pressure to the right on the shifter. Then, you start or idle your engine. REVERSE (R): To back up, press the clutch pedal. Wait for the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 128
control of your vehicle. You could injure yourself or others. Don't shift down more than one gear at a time when you downshift. Do not allow the engine rpm to overspeed and enter the tachometer red lines brakes as you go down the grade to ensure you have complete control center console, the front cup - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 129
conditions allow. For the best fuel economy, accelerate slowly and shift when the light comes on. While you accelerate, it is normal for the light to go on and off if you quickly change the position of the accelerator. If your vehicle has four-wheel drive and is equipped with a manual transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 130
Manual Transfer Case An 4WD indicator light will illuminate when you shift into four-wheel drive and the front axle engages. Some delay between shifting and the indicator's lighting is normal. The transfer case shift lever is on the floor to the right of the driver. Use this lever to shift into - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 131
Conditions Normal Severe Extreme Vehicle in Tow* 2HI YES YES YES YES 4HI 4LO N Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P), or if you have a manual transmission street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 132
4-53. 4-Wheel Low (4L0): This setting also engages your front axle and delivers extra torque. You may never need 4LO. It sends maximum power to all continuous motion into either the 4HI or 2HI position. When Using the Manual Transfer Case • All shifts should be made using quick motions. Slow shifts - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 133
brake. 2. Place the transmission into NEUTRAL (N). Shift the transfer case in one continuous motion into or out of the NEUTRAL (N) position. Automatic the instrument panel cluster. • Shift the automatic transmission into NEUTRAL (N), or with a manual transmission, press the clutch pedal, or shift - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 134
conditions are variable. When driving your vehicle in AUTO 4WD, the front axle is engaged, but the vehicle's power is sent to the rear wheels. When the vehicle senses a loss of traction, the system will automatically setting also engages your front axle and delivers extra torque. You may never need - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 135
, it will return to the last chosen setting. If the SERVICE 4WD light stays on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. See Service on page 5-3 for further information. Shifting into 4HI or AUTO 4WD Press and release the 4HI or AUTO 4WD switch. This can be done at any speed (except - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 136
to 3.2 km/h). Press and release the 4LO switch. You must wait for the 4LO indicator light to stop flashing and remain illuminated before shifting your transmission in gear. Shifting Out of 4LO To shift from 4LO to 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 2HI your vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (4.8 km - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 137
the desired transfer case shift position (2HI, 4HI, AUTO 4WD or 4LO). 4. After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL the red light will go out. 5. Release the parking brake. 6. You may start the engine and shift the transmission to the desired position. Excessively shifting the transfer case - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 138
driving settings: Recommended Transfer Case Settings Transfer Case Settings Driving Conditions Normal Severe Extreme Vehicle in Tow* 2HI YES YES YES street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. This setting engages your front axle to help drive your vehicle. Use - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 139
lights do not come on, you should take your vehicle in for service. An indicator light transmission is in PARK (P). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See Parking Brake front axle will lock automatically with - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 140
You must wait for the 4HI indicator light to stop flashing and remain illuminated before shifting your transmission into gear. If the 4HI switch is the parking brake. 2. Start the vehicle or turn the ignition to RUN. 3. Connect the vehicle to the towing vehicle. 4. Put the transmission in NEUTRAL - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 141
prior to towing. 4. After the transfer case has shifted out of NEUTRAL the red light will go out. 5. Release the parking brake. 6. You may start the engine and shift the transmission to the desired position. Excessively shifting the transfer case into or out of the different modes may cause the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 142
when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off. Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts. Verify that the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off before - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 143
like this: {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 144
Automatic Transmission Only) {CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake If you have four-wheel drive with a manual transfer case shift lever and your transfer case - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 145
to ACCESSORY. There is no shift interlock in this key position. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the gear you want. 5. Have the system fixed as soon as you can. Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 146
manual transmission is in gear. Your or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure to set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in NEUTRAL. See ″Parking Brake : Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 147
vehicle fixed immediately. {CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the climate control fan is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 148
, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). {CAUTION: Four-wheel drive you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-70. Mirrors Manual Rearview Mirror Pull the tab under the mirror toward you to reduce glare from - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 149
Mirror with OnStar®, Compass and Temperature Display Your vehicle may have this feature. When on, an automatic dimming mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark. Temperature and Compass Display Press the on/off button, located to the far - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 150
. If it'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 automatic dimming mode. 2. Turn off the automatic dimming mirror function by pressing and holding the on/off button for approximately six seconds, until the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 151
Air Bag Indicator Your vehicle may be equipped with a passenger air bag indicator, on the mirror glass may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item. automatic mirror, it will, when on, automatically dim to the proper level to minimize glare from lights - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 152
To alternate the antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item. Automatic light to the left of the TEMP button will still turn on or off to show you when the automatic dimming feature is activated. Once the mirror is turned off, it will remain off until it is turned back - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 153
. After you stop pressing the button, the display will show a compass direction 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 154
the mirror, use a paper towel or similar material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause the liquid cleaner to enter the mirror housing. Outside Camper-Type Mirrors Outside Manual Mirrors Adjust your outside mirrors so you can just see the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 155
of objects behind you. A. Outer Mirror Frame B. Mirror Head C. Nut Outside Power Mirrors If your vehicle is equipped with power outside mirrors, the controls are located on the driver's door armrest. Move the selector switch located above the control pad to the left or right to choose the mirror - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 156
. Press the right side of the mirror control to slide the mirror heads toward the body of the vehicle. Move the upper selector switch to the left or right to choose the mirror you want to adjust; then press the dots located on the four-way control pad to adjust the mirror. The mirrors - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 157
Center (DIC) on page 3-55. • They are accidentally manually folded/unfolded. • The mirrors will not stay in the unfolded position. • The mirrors shake and flutter at normal driving speeds. To reset the power foldaway mirrors, fold and unfold then at least three times using the mirror controls - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 158
communications, and state of the art call centers to provide you with a wide range of safety, security, information and convenience services. A complete OnStar® user's guide and the terms and conditions of the OnStar® Subscription Service Agreement are included in your OnStar®-equipped vehicle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 159
OnStar® owner's guide in your vehicle's glove box, or call OnStar® at 1−888−4−ONSTAR (1−888−466−7827). Safe and Sound Plan • Automatic Notification of Air Bag Deployment • Emergency Services • Roadside Assistance • Stolen Vehicle Assistance • AccidentAssist • Remote Door Unlock • Remote Diagnostics - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 160
a storage area behind the seat. Glove Box See the OnStar® manual provided with your vehicle for more information. To open your glove box, pull the lever upward and pull the door downward. Cupholder(s) Your vehicle may have cupholders located in the front console, or in the fold-down armrest. 2-66 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 161
may have a compact disc holder in the console. Your console may have a cupholder that swings down for the rear seat passengers to use. The front cupholder pulls out and swivels 180° to provide clearance between tall beverage containers and the manual transmission shift lever (if equipped). 2-67 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 162
A. Back rail B. Side rail C. Rear bow D. Center bow E. Front bow F. Front rail 3. Remove the three bows by gently pushing them against the spring-loaded end. The three bows are labeled front, center, rear to remind you of the order in which to reinstall them. 2. Remove the tonneau cover from the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 163
cargo to the box, remove all bows and the back rail and stow them safely. Vehicle Personalization Memory Seat If your vehicle has this feature, then the controls for the memory function are located on the driver's door. To clean the tonneau cover, use mild soap and water. If necessary, use a soft - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 164
be recalled if programmed to do so through the Driver Information Center (DIC). See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-55. The numbers on the back of the transmitters, 1 or 2, correspond to the numbers on the memory controls. The seat and mirror positions can also be recalled when placing - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 165
42 Up-Shift Light ...3-43 Brake System Warning Light ...3-43 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light ...3-45 Traction Off Light ...3-45 Engine Coolant Temperature Gage ...3-46 Transmission Temperature Gage ...3-47 Malfunction Indicator Lamp ...3-49 Oil Pressure Gage ...3-52 Cruise Control Light ...3-53 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 166
Panel Audio Steering Wheel Controls ...3-128 DVD Distortion ...3-129 Radio Reception ...3-129 Care of Your Cassette Tape Player ...3-129 Care of Your CDs and DVDs ...3-130 Care of Your CD and DVD Player ...3-131 Cleaning the Video Screen ...3-131 Fixed Mast Antenna ...3-131 XM™ Satellite Radio - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 167
NOTES 3-3 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 168
Instrument Panel Overview 3-4 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 169
Control Buttons (If Equipped). See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-55. N. Center Instrument Panel Utility Block. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-126. O. Parking Brake Release. See Parking Brake on page 2-48. P. Tilt Wheel Lever. See Tilt Wheel on page 3-7. Q. Lighter and Accessory - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 170
and even if the key isn't in. Press the button to make the front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Press the button again to flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Other Warning Devices If - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 171
Horn To sound the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Tilt Wheel If your vehicle is High/Low-Beam Changer Flash-to-Pass Windshield Wipers Windshield Washer Cruise Control For information on the exterior lamps, see Exterior Lamps on page 3-14. 3-7 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 172
a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically. To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 173
beams are on, this indicator light on the instrument panel cluster will also be on. If your headlamps are in the automatic position or on low beam, headlamps to signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. It works even if your headlamps are in the automatic position. To use it, pull - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 174
6 (Low Speed): For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the first solid band past the delay settings. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to the second solid band past the delay settings. To stop the wipers, move the band to off. Windshield Washer L(Washer Fluid): - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 175
control can be dangerous where you can not drive safely at a steady speed. So, do not use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control you could lose control. Do not use cruise control on slippery button to set the speed. With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 176
and then you apply the brake. This, of course, disengages the cruise control. But you don't need to reset it. Once you're going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch briefly from on to resume/accelerate. You'll go right back up to your chosen speed - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 177
shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of 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. • Move the cruise switch from on to resume/accelerate. Hold it there until you get up to - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 178
to turn off the cruise control: Exterior Lamps Step lightly on the brake pedal, move the cruise control switch to off, or shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N). If your vehicle has the Stabilitrak® feature, cruise control will turn off if road conditions cause Stabilitrak® to activate. longer - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 179
headlamp systems so that driving under bridges or bright overhead street lights does not affect the system. The DRL and automatic headlamp system will only be affected when the light sensor sees a change in lighting lasting longer than the delay. 2(Headlamps): Turning the switch to this position - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 180
The exterior lamps control is in AUTO The automatic transmission is not in PARK (P) The light sensor determines it is daytime 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 is open - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 181
an automatic transmission equipped vehicle with the DRL off, set the parking brake. Shifting the transmission into PARK (P) will also allow you to idle the vehicle with the DRL off. The DRL will stay off until you release the parking brake or shift the transmission out of PARK (P). To idle a manual - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 182
qualified service center to install an auxiliary roof lamp. This switch is located on the center of the instrument panel near the comfort controls. Cargo , pressing the switch will activate the lamp and illuminate an indicator light near the switch. Pressing the switch again will turn off the roof - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 183
a door is opened, the dome lamps will come on if the dome override button is in the out position. If the dome override button is pressed in, the lamps will not come on. Front Reading Lamps If equipped, the reading lamps are located on the overhead console. Exit Lighting With exit lighting, the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 184
fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information on the accessory power plugs. E: You can use the dome override button, located below the exterior lamps control, to set the dome lamps to come on automatically, or remain off, when the doors are opened. To turn the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 185
the plug because the power outlets are designed for accessory power plugs only. Climate Controls Climate Control System Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter Your vehicle may be equipped with a front ashtray located near the center of the instrument panel. Pull on the door to open it. Notice: If you put - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 186
the red area for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise toward the blue area for cooler air. 1 (Defrost): This setting directs most air through the windshield defroster outlets, side window defroster outlets and some through the floor outlets. Dual Climate Control System With this system you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 187
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 indicator #(Air Conditioning): Press this button to turn the air-conditioning system on or off. When the button is pressed, an indicator light will come - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 188
cool window glass. This can be minimized if the climate control system The lines you see on the rear window warm the glass. air to the windshield and the side window vents, with only a little air directed to the floor vents. The air conditioning compressor will run automatically to dehumidify the air - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 189
windows. • 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 190
Dual Automatic Climate Control System With this system, you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your temperature can be adjusted even if the system is turned off. This is possible since outside air will always flow through the system as the vehicle is moving forward unless it is set - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 191
AUTO button for about four seconds. When AUTO is selected, the air conditioning operation and air inlet will be automatically controlled. The air conditioning not to cover the sensor located on the top of the instrument panel near the windshield. This sensor regulates air temperature based on - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 192
system. 9(Off): Press this button to turn off the entire climate control system. Outside air will still enter the vehicle, and will be directed to the floor fan switch, the defrost button, the AUTO button, or the air conditioning button to turn the system on when it is off. H (Panel - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 193
air conditioning performance in hot weather. Press this button again to allow outside air to enter the vehicle. The light on the recirculation button will go off. Pressing this button also cancels the auto recirculation feature. To resume the auto or front defrost. control system. Outside air - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 194
turn off to let you know the air conditioning is off. When air conditioning is selected or in AUTO mode, the system will run the air conditioning automatically to cool and dehumidify the air entering the vehicle. If you select A/C off while in front defrost, defog or recirculation, the A/C snowflake - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 195
while using it. Press the front defrost button to defrost the windshield. The system will automatically control the fan speed if you select defrost from AUTO mode. If the outside temperature is 40°F (4°C) or warmer, your air conditioning compressor will automatically run to help dehumidify the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 196
lines you see on the rear window warm the glass. The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Outlet Adjustment Use the air outlets located in the center defogger. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not clear the inside of the rear window - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 197
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 before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators This part - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 198
going, about how much fuel you have and many other things you'll need to know to drive safely and economically. United States Heavy Duty Automatic Transmission version shown. Canada, Light Duty Automatic and Manual Transmission Clusters similar. 3-34 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 199
). Notice: If you operate the engine with the tachometer in the shaded warning area, your vehicle could be damaged, and the damages would not be covered by your warranty. Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the shaded warning area. 3-35 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 200
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, the passenger sensing system (if equipped), the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 201
front passenger's air bag off, this light will be lit and stay lit to remind you that the air bag has been turned off. This light will go off when you turn the air bag back on again. See Air Bag Off Switch on page 1-76 for more on this, including important safety information. The AIR BAG OFF light - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 202
Canada with Passenger Sensing System Canada without Passenger Sensing System 3-38 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 203
for more on this, including important safety information. {CAUTION: If the air bag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the air bag, it means that something may be wrong with the air bag system. The right front passenger's air bag could inflate even though the switch is off. If - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 204
that the passenger sensing system has not turned off the passenger's frontal air bag. A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger's air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the in - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 205
after several seconds, all status indicator lights remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may be a problem with the lights or the passenger sensing system. See your dealer for service. {CAUTION: If the air bag off indicator and the air bag readiness light ever come on together, it means - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 206
. 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 charging system. Readings - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 207
For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comes on and a chime sounds there could be a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away. Up-Shift Light This light is used on some models with manual transmissions. The shift indicator light will show - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 208
working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident. If the light is still on after you have pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service. United States Canada This light should come on - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 209
needs service. You will also hear a chime sound when the light is on steady. If the regular brake system warning light isn't on, you still have brakes, but you don't have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on you don't have anti-lock brakes and there's a problem with - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 210
on for the following reasons: • 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 you turn the system off by pressing the TAS on/off button located to the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 211
beyond its capacity. See Engine Overheating on page 5-36. When your ignition is on, the gage shows the temperature of the transmission fluid. information center will display a TRANSMISSION HOT message and the transmission will enter a transmission protection mode. When the transmission enters - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 212
level Restricted air flow to the radiator and the auxiliary transmission oil cooler (if equipped). Notice: If you drive your vehicle with the transmission temperature gage above normal operating range, you can damage the transmission. This could lead to costly repairs that would not be covered by - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 213
this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty. Notice: Modifications made to the engine, transmission, exhaust, intake - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 214
come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: • Light Flashing - A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Diagnosis and service may be required. If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 215
detected by the system and cause the light to turn on. If you experience one or more of these conditions, change the fuel brand you use. It recently replaced your battery or if your battery has run down. The diagnostic system is designed to evaluate critical emission control systems during normal - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 216
low oil level or some other problem causing low oil pressure. Check your oil as soon as possible. See Oil Pressure Low under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-66 and Engine Oil on page 5-18. 3-52 Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance may damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 217
Control" under Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7. Tow/Haul Mode Light This light is displayed when the Tow/Haul mode has been activated. Four-Wheel-Drive Light The four-wheel drive indicator will light up when you shift a manual transfer case into four-wheel drive and the front axle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 218
of these indicate a problem with the fuel gage the tank's capacity to fill the tank. • The gage goes back to empty when will appear. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-55. If you Light The light next to the fuel gage will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. This light - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 219
Center that was last displayed before the engine was turned off. If a problem is detected, a warning message will appear on the display. Pressing any current warnings or service messages. Some warnings that cannot be acknowledged (cleared) are: ENGINE OVERHEATED, OIL PRESSURE LOW, REDUCED - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 220
MPG- This shows how many miles per gallon of fuel your vehicle is getting for the personal trip based on current and past driving conditions. • PERSONAL: XXX.X AVG MPH - This shows the vehicle's average speed for the personal trip. • PERSONAL: % ANNUAL - This shows the ratio of personal trip miles - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 221
Business Trip Turn BUSINESS TRIP on or off by pressing the select button. When it is on, you will also be able to scroll through the following by pressing the trip information button: You can also reset the PERSONAL: XX MI, or BUSINESS: XX MI while they are displayed by pressing the reset stem on - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 222
(99:59:59), after which the display will roll back to zero. To stop the counting of time, press vehicle is getting based on current and past driving conditions. Press and hold the select button for two the GM Oil Life System. If your vehicle is not equipped with DIC steering wheel control buttons you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 223
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 Oil on page 5-18. AUTOMATIC LOCKING - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 224
locking, press the select button while AUTOMATIC LOCKING is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through the following choices: LOCK DOORS MANUALLY: The doors will not be locked automatically. LOCK DOORS WITH SPEED: The doors will lock when the vehicle speed is above - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 225
is shifted into PARK (P). UNLOCK ALL AT KEY OUT: All of the doors will unlock when the key is taken out of the ignition. UNLOCK DOORS MANUALLY: The doors will not be unlocked automatically. UNLOCK DRIVER IN PARK: The driver's door will be unlocked when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P). 3-61 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 226
move on to the next feature. For more information on automatic door locks see Programmable Automatic Door Locks on page 2-10. This feature will not operate button will scroll through the following choices: PERIMETER LIGHTING ON (default): The headlamps and back-up lamps will come on for 40 seconds, - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 227
Remote Lock Feedback Press the personalization button until REMOTE LOCK FEEDBACK appears in the display. To select your personalization for the feedback you will receive when locking the vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter, press the select button while REMOTE LOCK FEEDBACK is - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 228
Headlamps On At Exit Press the personalization button until HEADLAMPS ON AT EXIT appears in the display. To select your personalization for how long the headlamps will stay on when you turn off the vehicle, press the select button while HEADLAMPS ON AT EXIT is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 229
Easy Exit Driver Seat Press the personalization button until EASY EXIT DRIVER SEAT appears in the display. To select your personalization for seat position exit, press the select button while EASY EXIT DRIVER SEAT is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select button will scroll through the following - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 230
and that some action may be needed by the driver to correct the condition. If there is more than one message that needs to be displayed they BATTERY NOT CHARGING If the battery is not charging during operation, this message will appear on the DIC. Driving with this problem could drain your battery. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 231
a chime will sound when the ignition is in RUN and the following conditions occur: CARGO LAMP ON If the cargo lamp is on, this message oil level and correct it as necessary. You may need to let the vehicle cool or warm up and cycle the ignition to be sure this message will clear. Once the problem - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 232
oil needs to be changed. When you change the engine oil, be sure to reset the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message. See "Engine Oil, When to Change" under Engine Oil DOOR AJAR If the driver's door BATTERY LOW If a remote keyless entry transmitter battery is low, this message will appear on the DIC. The battery - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 233
possible and do not operate it until the cause of the low oil pressure has been corrected. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. RANGE SHIFT INHIBITED (Allison Transmission® Only) If the transmission is unable to shift into a selected gear this message will appear on - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 234
again when you begin driving, the brake system needs service. RIGHT REAR DOOR AJAR (Crew Cab) If the passenger's side rear door is not fully closed, this message Brake Assist system needs service. See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-43. SERVICE AIRBAG If there is a problem with the air bag - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 235
on the DIC display. If the message is still displayed, or appears again when you begin driving, the four wheel drive system needs service. SERVICE RIDE CONTROL If a problem occurs with the suspension system, this message will appear on the DIC. If this message appears, stop and turn off the vehicle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 236
fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light and message off. Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the transmission fluid is overheating and the transmission temperature warning is displayed on the instrument panel cluster and/or - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 237
, check with your dealer and be sure to check federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units. Your audio system has been designed Accessory Power (RAP)" under Ignition Positions on page 2-22. Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the transmission fluid is overheating and the transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 238
Setting the Time for Radios without Radio Data Systems (RDS) Press and hold the HR or MIN arrow for two seconds. Then press HR until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold MIN until the correct minute appears on the display. The time may be set with the ignition on or off. AM-FM - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 239
Finding a Station AM FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, or AM. The display will show your selection. TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations. Press the right or the left arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there. To scan stations, press and hold either - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 240
appear on the display. To adjust both tone controls and both speaker controls to the middle position, end out of the down arrow to move the sound toward the front or the rear speakers. To adjust balance or fade be returned to the dealer for service. LOC (Locked): This message is displayed when the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 241
Radio with CD With RDS, your radio can do the following: • Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type of programming • Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies • Display messages from radio stations • Seek to stations with traffic announcements This system relies upon - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 242
including song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XM™ service. For more information, contact XM™ at to increase or to decrease volume. AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, your audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and wind - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 243
will return and the equalization that you selected will be automatically stored for that pushbutton. 6. Repeat the steps for tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. ALL Press AUTO EQ to select the equalization. 3-79 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 244
AUTO EQ settings for each preset and source. If you radio is equipped with the Bose audio system, your equalization settings are either CUSTOM or TALK. To adjust all tone and speaker controls longer on the display, go back to Step 1. Adjusting the Speakers the fade to the front and the rear speakers - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 245
on the display. The radio may switch to stronger stations. To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again for two seconds. AF OFF to other stations. This function does not apply for XM™ Satellite Radio Service. Setting Preset PTYs (RDS Only) The six numbered pushbuttons let you return - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 246
by tests of the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. INFO (Information): If the current station in phone numbers, etc. If the whole message is not displayed, parts of the message will appear every three seconds. To scroll through the message Service. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 247
must return to the dealer for service. XM™ Radio Messages Radio Display Message XL (Explicit Language Channels) Condition XL on the radio display, after should disappear shortly. This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another channel. No Signal Loading XM Acquiring channel audio (after - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 248
Messages (cont'd) Radio Display Message CH Unavail Condition Channel no longer available Action Required This previously this message after having your vehicle serviced, check with the servicing facility. If you tune to channel 0, you will see this message alternating with your XM Radio 8 digit - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 249
'd) Radio Display Message Unknown Condition Radio ID not known (should , difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try a known good CD. Do not add paper labels to CDs, they Full-size CDs and the smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner. 3-85 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 250
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the current track if it has been playing for more than eight seconds. TRACK and the track number will appear on the display. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the player will continue moving backward through the CD. 2 NEXT: - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 251
• The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down. • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. • There may have been a problem while burning the CD. Z (Eject): Press this button to stop a CD , write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. 3-87 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 252
Radio with Cassette and CD With RDS, your radio can do the following: • Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type of programming • Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies • Display messages from radio stations • Seek to stations with traffic announcements This - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 253
, including song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XM™ service. For more information, contact XM™ at www to increase or to decrease volume. AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, your audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 254
AM, or XM1 or XM2. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press AUTO EQ to select the equalization. 5. Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons you set will return and the equalization that you selected will be automatically stored for that pushbutton. 6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 255
control is displayed. ALL will appear on the display, you will hear a beep and the display level will be adjusted to the middle position. AUTO EQ (Automatic toward the right or the left speakers. To adjust the fade between the front and the rear speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until FADE - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 256
and is no longer on the display, go back to Step 1. If both PTY and TRAF Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. To turn alternate may switch to stronger stations. To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 257
display the artist, song title, call in phone numbers, etc. If the whole message is not displayed, parts of the message will appear every three seconds. To scroll through the message at your own speed, press of the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. 3-93 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 258
message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. You must return to the dealer for service. XM™ Radio Messages Radio Display Message XL (Explicit Language Channels) Condition XL on the radio display, after the channel name, indicates content with explicit language. Updating encryption - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 259
Radio Display Message Loading XM Condition Acquiring channel audio (after 4 second delay) Channel not in service Channel no longer available Action available for the category you selected. Your system is working properly. CH Off Air CH Unavail No Info No Info No Info No Info Not Found Artist - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 260
serviced, check with the servicing facility. If you tune to channel 0, you will see this message alternating playing, use the VOL, AUDIO, and SEEK controls just as you do for the radio. TAPE side of the tape is playing. The tape player automatically begins playing the other side when it reaches the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 261
CD players will work in your cassette tape player. Your tape bias is set automatically when a metal or chrome tape is inserted. If an error appears on the this pushbutton multiple times will increase the number of selections to be searched back, up to -9. 2 NEXT: Your tape must have at least three - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 262
cannot be corrected, contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error message, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. Z (Eject): Press this button to stop a tape when it is playing or to eject a tape when it is not playing. Eject may be activated with - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 263
player can play the smaller 8 cm single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner. If playing a , difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try a known good CD. Do not add paper labels to CDs, they - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 264
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the current track if it has been playing for more than eight seconds. TRACK and the track number will appear on the display. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the player will continue moving backward through the CD. 2 NEXT: - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 265
your radio displays an error message, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. Z (Eject): Press this button to stop a CD when it is playing or to eject is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down. • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. 3-101 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 266
Radio with Six-Disc CD With RDS, your radio can do the following: • Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type of programming • Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies • Display messages from radio stations • Seek to stations with traffic announcements This system - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 267
including song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XM™ service. For more information, contact XM™ at www to increase or to decrease volume. AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, your audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 268
to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. CENTERED will appear on the display and you will hear a beep. AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button to select customized equalization settings designed for country/western, jazz, talk - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 269
AUTO out and is no longer on the display, go back to Step 1. If both P-TYPE and TRAF are on speakers. To adjust the fade between the front and rear speakers, push and hold the AUDIO controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker controls are displayed. CENTERED - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 270
the display. The radio may switch to stronger stations. 3-106 To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again for two seconds. AF OFF to other stations. This function does not apply for XM™ Satellite Radio Service. Setting Preset PTYs (RDS Only) The six numbered pushbuttons let you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 271
by tests of the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. INFO (Information): If the current station has in phone numbers, etc. If the whole message is not displayed, parts of the message will appear every three seconds. To scroll through the Service. 3-107 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 272
Messages Radio Display Message XL (Explicit Language Channels) Condition XL on the radio display, after the channel XM Acquiring channel audio (after 4 second delay) Channel not in service Channel no longer available CH Off Air CH Unavail No Info No Info Artist Name/Feature not available Song/ - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 273
Message No Info No Info Not Found XM Locked Condition Category Name not available No Text/Informational message available No this message after having your vehicle serviced, check with the servicing facility. If you tune to channel 0, you will see this message alternating with your XM Radio 8 digit - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 274
CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the smaller CDs are loaded in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur try a known good CD. Do of the LOAD CD button. 3. Wait for the light, located to the right of the slot, to CD. The CD will begin to play automatically. As each new track starts to - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 275
press and hold this button for two seconds. You will hear a beep and the light will flash to let you know when a CD is being ejected. REMOVE CD , after 25 seconds, the CD will be automatically pulled back into the receiver. If you try to push the CD back into the receiver, before the 25 second time - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 276
EQ to select the desired equalization setting while playing a CD. The equalization will be automatically set whenever you play a CD. For more information on AUTO EQ, see "AUTO EQ" listed previously in this section. • To repeat the track you are listening to, press and release the RPT button. RPT - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 277
sSCAN t: To scan one CD, press and hold either SCAN arrow for more than two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. Use this feature to listen to 10 seconds of each track of the currently selected CD. Press either SCAN arrow again, to stop scanning. To scan all loaded CDs, - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 278
indicating that the song list has been deleted. If a CD is ejected, and the song list contains saved tracks from that CD, those tracks are automatically deleted from the song list. Any tracks saved to the song list again are added to the bottom of the list. To end song list - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 279
wet, or upside down. • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. • There may have been a problem while burning the CD. • The label write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. Rear Seat Entertainment System Your vehicle may have the optional Digital - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 280
located in the overhead console. The DVD player can be controlled by the buttons on the DVD player or by the buttons 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 when Retained - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 281
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 when RAP is active. If a disc is already in the player, press the play/pause button on the face of - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 282
from the remote control and the DVD player, with the exception of the eject button. Press this button again to restore operation of the DVD player. This button may also be used to turn the DVD player power on and automatically resume play if the ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or if RAP - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 283
the ability of the entertainment system to receive signals from the remote control. If the remote control does not seem to be working, the batteries may need to be replaced. See "Battery Replacement" later in this section. Objects blocking the line of sight may also affect the function of the remote - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 284
dependent on the disc. 1 through 0 (Numeric Keypad): The remote control numeric keypad provides you with the capability of direct chapter, title, DVD player and an auxiliary source. Press this button to turn the remote control backlight on. The backlight will time out after about 7 to 10 seconds - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 285
and content of this function is dependent on the disc. Battery Replacement To change the batteries, do the following: 1. Remove the battery compartment door located on the bottom of the remote control. 2. Replace the two AA batteries in the compartment. Make sure that they are installed correctly - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 286
control. An indicator light will illuminate on the headphones when they are on. If the light does not illuminate, the batteries may need to be replaced. See "Battery , if the front seat passengers play a CD in the Radio with Six-Disc CD (if equipped) or use XM™ Satellite Radio Service (48 contiguous - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 287
system power on. If the RSE system had been previously in the DVD player mode, pressing the SRCE button on the faceplate or the remote control will toggle the RSE system between the auxiliary device and the DVD player. Audio Output Audio from the DVD player or auxiliary inputs may be - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 288
disc was ejected, but it was pulled back into the DVD player. Recommended Action The ignition might not be in on or accessory. Check to make sure the parental control button has not been activated. (The power indicator light will flash if parental control is active.) The system might be off. Check - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 289
damage the disc and DVD player. Problem Recommended Action Sometimes the wireless Check for obstructions, headphone audio cuts out low batteries, reception or buzzes. range, and have the from the DVD or CD front seat passengers when using the wired listen to another audio headphones. source. 3-125 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 290
sources: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, or DVDs, depending on your vehicles options. However, the rear seat passengers can only control the music sources that the front seat passengers are not listening to. For example, rear seat passengers may listen to a cassette tape through headphones while the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 291
back to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If the CD player on the front to discourage theft of your radio. The feature works automatically by learning a portion of the Vehicle Identification blinking red light indicates that THEFTLOCK® is armed. With THEFTLOCK® activated, - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 292
Audio Steering Wheel Controls You can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your OnStar®, you can press this button to interact with the OnStar® system. See the OnStar® manual provided with your vehicle for more information. If your vehicle does not have OnStar®, pressing this - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 293
or near the vehicle. * Excludes the OnStar® System. XM™ Satellite Radio Service (48 Contiguous US States) XM™ Satellite Radio gives you digital radio reception each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise. FM Stereo FM stereo - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 294
, use a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. Care of Your CDs and DVDs Handle discs carefully. Store them in - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 295
normal level to loud, and LOUD will appear on the display. To change back to the default or normal setting, press and hold pushbutton 6 again. it with a factory radio or chime module will disable vehicle chimes. Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 296
NOTES 3-132 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 297
Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ...4-2 Defensive Driving ...4-2 Drunken Driving ...4-2 Control of a Vehicle ...4-5 Braking ...4-6 Traction Assist System (TAS) ...4-9 Manual Selectable Ride ...4-11 Locking Rear Axle ...4-12 Steering ...4-12 QUADRASTEER™ ...4-14 Off-Road Recovery ...4-17 Passing - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 298
distance. It is the best defensive driving 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 299
obvious way to eliminate the leading highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and BAC by drinking three 4 ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had • The amount of alcohol consumed • The drinker's body weight • The amount of food that is consumed before - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 300
0.10 percent, 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! 4-4 The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 301
Control of a Vehicle {CAUTION: Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Your reflexes, You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 302
you can lose control of your vehicle. Also see Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 4-9. And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road (whether it is pavement or gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire tread; the condition of your brakes; the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 303
brake and ABS warning lights will come on accompanied by a 10-second chime. The lights and chime will come on each time the ignition is turned on until the problem is repaired. See your dealer for service. Let us say the road is wet and you are driving safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 304
, but this is normal. Braking in Emergencies With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking. As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly. 4-8 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 305
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. If your vehicle is in cruise control when the TAS begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 306
two minutes of not using the brakes. See Traction Off Light on page 3-45. The Traction Assist System, as delivered from the factory, will automatically come on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 307
indicator light will not be lit. This button position indicates NORMAL levels of ride control or damping. Manual Selectable Ride light will be lit. Use this setting when road conditions or personal preference demand more control. This setting provides more "feel″ or response to the road conditions - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 308
road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. See Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 4-9. Locking Rear Axle If your vehicle has this feature, your locking rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 309
, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you will want to go slower. If you need to reduce darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking - if you can stop in time. But sometimes you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 310
control and diagnostic module at all times, and during all driving and weather conditions. You can select this mode at any speed, lights up. If the 2 indicator is flashing you will have to center the steering wheel by turning it to the left or right. Your vehicle will return to 2 when the transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 311
stays on. If the 4 indicator is flashing you will have to center the steering wheel by turning it to the left or right. Higher Speeds (40 m.p.h./ ): Slower Speeds (below 40 m.p.h./ 64 km/h ) At slower speeds the front and rear wheels will turn in opposite directions. This helps the vehicle make - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 312
mode indicators light up on the instrument panel. If the tow indicator is flashing you will have to center the it is possible the steering wheel may be slightly off center. For more information, see Towing a Trailer on page Conveyor systems on some automatic car washes may damage your vehicle. Only - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 313
moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple one-quarter turn until the right front tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn your lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 314
three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) do not have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, do not give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. • If other vehicles are lined up - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 315
to existing conditions, and by not "overdriving" those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle's three control systems. In the braking skid, your slow down when you have any doubt. Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps avoid only the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 316
important that you read this guide. You will find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help make your off-road driving safer and more enjoyable. If you think you will need some more ground clearance at the front of your vehicle, you can easily remove the front bumper lower air dam. 4-20 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 317
place by a series of push-pins located around the lower edge of the front bumper. The push-pins are accessible from underneath the front bumper. The following steps must be performed on each of the push-pins to remove the air dam: 1. Insert a tool into the push-pin slot and pull downward until the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 318
front of your vehicle to be damaged. Always be sure to replace the front bumper air dam when you are finished off-road driving. To reinstall the lower air dam, do the following: 1. Line all necessary maintenance and service work done. Check to wheel-drive vehicle in this manual. Is there enough fuel - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 319
objects. Secure the cargo properly. Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle's center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over. You can be seriously The heaviest things should be on the load floor and forward of your rear axle. Put heavier items as far forward as you can. • Be sure the load - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 320
quickly. Does your vehicle have a winch? If so, be sure to read the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch can be handy if you get stuck. But you for unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms, hands, feet and body, you will need to respond to vibrations and vehicle bounce. • Always carry - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 321
Conditions: Off-roading can take you over hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow or ice. Each of these surfaces affects the steering, acceleration and braking easily throw you out of position. This could cause you to lose control and crash. So, whether you're driving on or off the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 322
even with one or two wheels, you can not control the vehicle as well or at all. Because you important to avoid sudden acceleration, sudden turns or sudden braking. In a way, off-road driving requires a no road signs, posted speed limits or signal lights. You have to use your own good judgment - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 323
Approaching a Hill When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it is one of those hills that is just too steep to climb, descend or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very small hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant incline with only a small change in elevation where you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 324
Driving Uphill Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you need to take some special steps. • Ease up on your speed as you approach the top of the hill. • Attach a flag to the vehicle to make you more visible to approaching traffic on trails or hills. • Use a low gear and get a firm grip - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 325
are straight and maneuver as you back down. It is best that you back down the hill with your manual transmission) to "rev-up" the engine and regain forward momentum. This will not work. Your vehicle will roll backwards very quickly and you could go out of control. Instead, apply the regular brake - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 326
back down the hill and decide I just can not do it. What should I do? {CAUTION: Shifting the transfer case to NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P) (or, if you have the manual transmission brake, put your transmission in PARK (P), or the manual transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 327
downhill, you will want to consider a number of things: {CAUTION: Heavy braking when going down a hill can cause your brakes to overheat and fade. This could cause loss of control and a serious accident. Apply the brakes lightly when descending a hill and use a low gear to keep vehicle speed under - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 328
base (the distance from the front wheels to the rear wheels manual transmission) and, while still braking, restart the engine. • Shift back to a low gear, release the parking brake, and drive straight down. • If the engine will not start, get out and get help. • Surface conditions can be a problem - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 329
For reasons like these, you need to decide carefully whether to try to drive across an incline. Just because the trail goes across the incline does not mean you have to drive it. The last vehicle to try it might have rolled over. Q: What if I am driving across an incline that is not too steep, but - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 330
If your vehicle stalls when you are crossing an incline, be sure you (and your passengers) 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 over, you will be right in - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 331
, the traction is so poor that you will have difficulty accelerating. And if you do get moving, poor steering and difficult braking can cause you to slide out of control. {CAUTION: Driving on frozen lakes, ponds or rivers can be dangerous. Underwater springs, currents under the ice, or sudden thaws - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 332
cover your wheel hubs, axles or exhaust pipe, do not try it - you probably will not get through. Also, water that deep can damage your axle and other vehicle parts start your engine. When you go through water, remember that when your brakes get wet, it may take you longer to stop. {CAUTION: Driving - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 333
the brake linings cleaned and checked. 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 334
on the glass. Even the inside of the glass can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makes lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would, bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you are driving, do not wear sunglasses - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 335
streaking or missing areas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to separate from the inserts. Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can not stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction is not as good as on dry - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 336
of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Driving Through 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 337
Driving Through Flowing Water Some Other Rainy Weather Tips • Turn on your low-beam headlamps - not just your parking lamps - to help make you more visible to others. Besides slowing down, allow some extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 338
where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-country trip. • Try to 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 339
want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit. The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. The exit speed is usually posted. Mile for mile - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 340
to a safe, trouble-free trip. Is that first part of the journey. serviced and maintained, it is ready to go. If it needs service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you will find experienced and able service there actually such a condition as "highway hypnosis"? Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 341
. 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 the highway as an emergency. Driving on steep hills - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 342
Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. • transmission, and you can climb the hill better. • Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane roads in hills or mountains. Do not swing wide or cut across the center - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 343
see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or no-passing flashlight, a red cloth and reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 344
traction system, you will want to slow down and adjust your driving to the road conditions. See Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 4-9. If you do not have a be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. You can get wet ice - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 345
begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See Braking on page 4-6. If You Are Caught in a Blizzard • Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. • Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that is covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road, ice - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 346
around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats - anything fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 347
, but you must use caution. Notice: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transmission back and forth, you can destroy your transmission. For more information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see Tire - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 348
back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear (or with a manual transmission, between FIRST (1) or SECOND (2) and REVERSE (R)), spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly hooks are provided at the front of your vehicle. You may - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 349
vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged and it would not be covered by warranty. Towing Towing Your Vehicle Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See Roadside you or others could be injured from the chain or cable snapping back. 4-53 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 350
See Before Leaving on a Long Trip on page 4-44. Dinghy Towing • What's the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure you read the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. • How far ground. Two-wheel-drive transmissions have no provisions for internal lubrication while being towed. 4-54 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 351
case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in Park (P) for an automatic transmission, or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is firmly set before you shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 352
case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in Park (P) for an automatic transmission, or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is firmly set before you shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 353
to select the neutral position for your vehicle. 7. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is firmly attached to the towing front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 354
and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axles. See "Certification capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 − 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.). A. Vehicle Capacity Weight The Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the center pillar, near the driver's door latch. Vehicles without a center - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 355
vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle. See Towing a Trailer on page 4-70 for more information on towing a trailer, towing safety - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 356
) x 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Total 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 750 lbs (340 kg) 250 lbs. (113 kg) Item A B C Loading Your Vehicle Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 3 = Subtract Occupant Weight 200 lbs (91 kg) x 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Total 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 0 lbs - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 357
important information about your Front Axle Reserve Capacity. See "Front Axle Reserve Capacity" later in this section. And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. The Certification/Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver's door. The label shows the size of your original - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 358
front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control information for off-road driving in this manual. See "Loading Your Vehicle for Off- damage. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 359
as part of your load. If you added any accessories or equipment after your vehicle left the factory, remember to subtract the weight of these things from the payload. Your dealer can help you with this. Remember not to exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of the front or rear axle. Remember - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 360
the repairs would not be covered by warranty. Unless your damaged if either the front or rear axle ratings, or the GVW , are exceeded. • The weight and number of passengers you intend to carry, • The weight of items you have added to your vehicle, like a tool box or truck cap - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 361
regarding rear ballast. Rear ballast may be required to ensure a proper front and rear weight distribution ratio, even though the actual weight at the front axle may be less than the front axle rating. The front axle reserve capacity for your vehicle can be found in the lower right corner of the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 362
So, if your truck's front axle reserve capacity is more than 980 lb. (445 kg), you could add the snow plow without exceeding the front GAWR. Q: What if I want to add heavier equipment to my vehicle? (W x (A + W.B.)) /W.B.= Weight the accessory is adding to the front axle. Where: W = Weight of added - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 363
as a snow plow, it may be possible to load the front axle to the front GAWR but not have enough weight on the rear axle to have proper braking performance. If your brakes can not work properly, you could have a crash. To help your brakes work properly when a snow plow is installed, always follow the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 364
dimensions A and B as shown in the following illustration. Use the rear edge of the load floor for measurement purposes. The recommended location for the cargo center of gravity is at point C for the CWR. It is the point where the mass of - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 365
axles. The loads on the front and rear axles shouldn't be more than either of the GAWRs. The total of the axle loads should not be more than the GVWR. Open your driver's door 's instructions. If you want more information on curb weights, cargo weights, Cargo Weight Rating and the correct center of - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 366
properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well box removed and a commercial or recreational body installed. Before you do so, first not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this part, - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 367
braking , axle or other parts could automatic transmission, you can tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often, such as under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions. If you have a manual transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 368
most useful under the following driving conditions: • Reduce the frequency and improve the predictability of transmission shifts when pulling a heavy control of vehicle speed while requiring less throttle pedal activity when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load. Automatic transmission - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 369
models and the handling/trailering or off-road suspension is required on K-1500 models. Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-1500 Regular Cab Short Box (2WD)* 3.08 4,600 lbs. (2 087kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 082 kg) 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.42 5,100 lbs. (2 313kg) 9,500 lbs. (4 309 kg) 3.08 3,600 lbs - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 370
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (2WD)* 3.42 4,700 lbs. (2 133 kg) 9,500 lbs. (4 309 kg) 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.73 5,200 lbs. (2 360 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 536 kg) 4300 V6 (Manual) 3.42 3,700 lbs. (1 678 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 859 kg) 3.42 6,100 lbs. (2 769 kg) 11,000 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 371
lbs. (3 538 kg) GCWR 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) 13,000 lbs. (5 897 kg) Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (2WD)* 3.08 4,400 lbs. (1 995 kg) 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg) 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.42 4,900 lbs. (2 222 kg) 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 3.08 3,400 lbs. (1 542 kg - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 372
percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 1,500 lbs. (680 kg) maximum. Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-1500 Regular Cab Short Box (4WD) 3.42 4,800 lbs. (2 177 kg) 9,500 lbs. (4 313 kg) 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.73 5,300 lbs. (2 404 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg) 3.42 3,800 lbs. (1 724 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 373
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (4WD)* 3.73 6,800 lbs. (3 084 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) 4800 V8 (Auto) 4.10 7,800 lbs. (3 538 kg)** 13,000 lbs. (5 897 kg) 3.73 4,800 lbs. (2 177 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 535 kg) 4800 V8 (Manual) 4.10 5,800 lbs. (2 630 kg) 11 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 374
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (4WD)* 3.42 4,600 lbs. (2 086 kg) 9,500 lbs. (4 309 kg) 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.73 5,100 lbs. (2 313 kg) 10,000 lbs. (4 536 kg) 3.42 3,600 lbs. (1 632 kg) 8,500 lbs. (3 855 kg) 4300 V6 (Manual) 3.73 4,100 lbs. (1 859 kg) 9,000 lbs. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 375
Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (4WD)* 3.73 6,600 lbs. (2 993 kg) 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) 4800 V8 4.10 7,600 lbs. (3 447 kg)** 13,000 lbs. (5 897 kg) 3.73 4,700 lbs. (2 133 kg). 10,000 lbs. (4 536 kg) 4800 V8 (Manual 2WD)* 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 376
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* 6000 should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 2,500 lbs. (1 133 kg) maximum. Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight C-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* 6000 V8 4.10 10,200 lbs. (4 626 kg - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 377
of trailer weight up to 2,500 lbs. (1 133 kg) maximum. Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (2WD) 6000 to 3,000 lbs. (1 360 kg) maximum. Vehicle* K-2500 LD (4WD)* 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 3.73 8,300 lbs. (3 765 kg) 14,000 lbs. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 378
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-2500 Regular Cab Long Box HD (4WD)* 6000 should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 2,500 lbs. (1 133 kg) maximum. Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-2500 Extended Cab Short Box HD (4WD)* 6000 V8 4.10 10,100 lbs. (4 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 379
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (4WD)** 6000 should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 2,500 lbs. (1 133 kg) maximum. Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-2500 Crew Cab Long Box HD (4WD) 6000 V8 4.10 9,700 lbs. (4 399 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 380
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-3500 Extended Cab (2WD) 6000 V8 4.10 9,800 . (1 587 kg) maximum. ** Limited to 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) with weight distributing hitch. Vehicle* Axle Ratio K-3500 Regular Cab (4WD) 6000 V8 Dual Rear 4.10 Wheel 6000 V8 Single Rear 4.10 Wheel 8100 V8 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 381
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR 6.6L V8 Single Rear 3.73 12,000 lbs. (5 443 kg) 22,000 lbs. (9 979 kg) Wheel K-3500 Extended Cab (4WD)* - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 382
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-3500 Crew Cab (4WD)* 6000 V8 Dual Rear 4.10 9,300 lbs. (4 218 kg) 16,000 lbs. (7 264 kg) Wheel 6000 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 383
Your Vehicle on page 4-57 for more information about your vehicle's maximum load capacity. The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the loaded trailer weight, up to a maximum of 600 lbs. (272 kg) for the 1500 series, and up to a maximum of 600 lbs. (272 kg) for the 2500 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 384
. This will help reduce the effect of trailer tongue weight on the rear axle. After you have loaded the trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver's door or see Loading Your Vehicle for more information. Then be sure you don't - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 385
tow vehicle. If you use a step-bumper hitch, the bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there bumper. If you will be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg) be sure to use a properly mounted weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 386
section for more information. The hitch should be located in the pickup bed so that it's centerline is over or slightly in front of the rear axle. Take care that it is not so far forward that it will contact the back of the cab in sharp turns. This is especially important for short - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 387
your vehicle. Do not use the climate control setting for maximum air because it only recirculates the air inside your vehicle. See Climate Control System on page 3-21. • The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi (20 650 kPa) of pressure. • The trailer's brake system will use less than 0.02 cubic - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 388
parts and attachments, 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 back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 389
, preferably on level ground, with the automatic transmission in PARK (P) for a few minutes before turning the engine off. For manual transmissions, let the engine run while parked, preferably on level ground, with the transmission out of gear and the parking brake applied, for a few minutes before - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 390
you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here's how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don't shift into PARK (P) yet for an automatic transmission, or into gear for a manual transmission. 2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels. 3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 391
6-4 for more information. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don't overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 392
/Turn Signal Brown: Taillamps White: Ground Light Green: Back-up Lamps Light Blue: Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) Heavy-DutyTrailer Wiring connector is attached to a bracket on the hitch platform. * The Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) wire is tied next to the trailer wiring harness for - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 393
-wire camper harness is located under the front edge of the pickup box on the Light Green: Back-up Lamps Light Blue: CHMSL Red: Battery Feed Dark Blue: Trailer Brake If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you can get a jumper harness (electric trailer brake control) with a trailer battery - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 394
not work at all. You could have a crash in which you or others could be injured. Use only the trailer brake harness intended for your vehicle. If it is no longer available to you, be sure to get a proper replacement from your dealer. If your vehicle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 395
This harness is included with your vehicle as part of the heavy-duty trailer wiring package. This harness is for an electric brake controller and includes a trailer battery feed fuse. It should be installed by your dealer or a qualified service center. Use this adapter to connect a standard four-way - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 396
the vehicle, next to the auxiliary battery. Connect the adapter with the tab pointing up (see arrow). The flip cap on the vehicle's seven-wire harness auxiliary battery circuit is protected by a megafuse located behind the auxiliary battery. Be sure to follow the proper installation instructions - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 397
a PTO, if equipped, refer to the manufacturer's or installer's instructions. To engage a PTO on a vehicle with a manual transmission do the following: 1. Hold the clutch pedal down. 2. Set the parking brake. 3. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL (N). 4. Engage the PTO. Refer to the manufacturer - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 398
Make sure your foot is off the brake pedal (and off the clutch for vehicles equipped with a manual transmission). 4. Select the desired engine speed by using the foot pedal, and select SET on the PTO switch or the cruise control. Variable Mode: PTO speed control mode can be used for both stationary - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 399
system and body equipment. When the PTO switch is turned on, the engine is limited to 2200 rpms. If there are no accessories installed on the vehicle, make sure the PTO switch is turned off. Step-Bumper Pad Your vehicle has a rear step bumper with a rear step pad at the center of the bumper. If you - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 400
NOTES 4-104 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 401
12 Engine Oil ...5-18 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ...5-23 Automatic Transmission Fluid (Except Allison Transmission®) ...5-25 Automatic Transmission Fluid (Allison Transmission®) ...5-28 Manual Transmission Fluid ...5-31 Hydraulic Clutch ...5-32 Engine Coolant ...5-33 Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 402
cation Number (VIN) ...5-125 Service Parts Identification Label ...5-125 Electrical System ...5-125 Add-On Electrical Equipment ...5-125 Windshield Wiper Fuses ...5-126 Power Windows and Other Power Options ...5-126 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ...5-126 Capacities - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 403
get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you will want to use the proper service manual. It tells - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 404
nuts, bolts and other fasteners. "English" and "metric" fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts does not indicate a problem exists or that a service. Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the air - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 405
could provide improved driveability and emission control system performance compared to other gasoline. In Canada, look for the "Auto Makers' Choice" label on the If it is determined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. Canada Only 5-5 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 406
and intake valves clean. If your vehicle experiences problems control system may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for service covered by your warranty. To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 407
. To help avoid injuries to you and others, read and follow all the instructions on the pump island. Turn off your engine when you are refueling. Do pump fuel. The fuel cap is located behind a hinged door on the driver's side of the vehicle. While refueling, hang the fuel cap by the tether using the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 408
burned. Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely Outside of Your Vehicle on page 5-120. When you put the fuel cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. It will require - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 409
fill a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle's trunk, pickup bed or on any surface other than the ground. • Bring the fill nozzle in contact . • Do not smoke while pumping gasoline. Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 410
vehicle located under and to the left of the steering wheel. {CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 411
2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release located near the center of the grill. 3. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all filler caps are on properly. Pull down the hood and close it firmly. 5-11 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 412
Engine Compartment Overview When you lift up the hood on the VORTEC™ 4300 V6 engine, you'll see the following: 5-12 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 413
Coolant on page 5-33. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-23. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine Oil on page 5-18. E. Automatic Transmission Dipstick (If equipped). See Automatic Transmission Fluid (Except Allison Transmission®) on page 5-25 or - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 414
When you lift up the hood on the VORTEC™ 5300 V8 engine (VORTEC™ 4800 and 6000 V8 engines similar), you will see the following: 5-14 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 415
Coolant on page 5-33. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-23. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine Oil on page 5-18. E. Automatic Transmission Dipstick (If Equipped). See Automatic Transmission Fluid (Except Allison Transmission®) on page 5-25 or - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 416
When you lift up the hood on the VORTEC™ 8100 V8 engine you will see the following: 5-16 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 417
Coolant on page 5-33. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-23. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine Oil on page 5-18. E. Automatic Transmission Dipstick (If Equipped). See Automatic Transmission Fluid (Except Allison Transmission®) on page 5-25 or - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 418
. For more information, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-55. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don't, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 419
what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications on page 5-134. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for the location of the engine oil fill cap. Notice: Do not add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 420
numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50. Oils meeting these requirements oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). You should look for this information on the oil container, and use only those oils - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 421
under the best conditions, the oil life system may not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil and filter must GM-trained service people who will perform this work using genuine GM parts and reset the system. It is also important to check your oil regularly - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 422
it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help. 5-22 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 423
reset the indicator. To inspect the air cleaner/filter, remove the filter from the vehicle and lightly shake filter to release loose dust air cleaner/filter at every oil change and replace it at the first oil change after 25,000 miles (40 000 km). The air cleaner/filter assembly is located on the front - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 424
on the engine with the air cleaner/ filter off. 1. Loosen the screws on the cover of the housing and lift up the cover. 2. Remove the air cleaner/filter from the housing. Care should be taken to dislodge as little dirt as possible. 3. Clean the filter sealing surface and the housing. 4. Install - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 425
A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle's GVWR is over 8,600 or if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: How to Check Because - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 426
a more accurate reading of the fluid level. • With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds . Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: The transmission dipstick handle with the graphic is located at the rear of the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 427
with that label is made especially for your automatic transmission. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON® -III is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. • After 4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle down to lock the dipstick - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 428
Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 25,000 miles (41 500 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: How to Check Because this operation can be a little - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 429
the fluid level is within the COLD CHECK band, the transmission may be operated until the fluid is hot enough to back in all the way. • 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 brake - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 430
, push the dipstick back in all the way. How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. label is made especially for your automatic transmission. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON® -III is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. • - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 431
Manual Transmission Fluid When to Check A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is changed. See your maintenance schedule to find out when to change your transmission fluid. Then, follow these steps: How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 432
Adding fluid won't correct a leak. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often you should uid. See Owner Checks and Services on page 6-10 and Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-14. 5-32 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 433
in the reservoir. See the instructions on the reservoir cap. A 50/50 mixture of it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating engine temperature. Let the warning lights and gages work as they should covered by your warranty. Always use DEX-COOL®(silicate-free) - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 434
drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which won't damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don't need to add cost would not be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 435
mark. If your vehicle is equipped with a low coolant sensor, and the LOW COOLANT LEVEL message comes on and cap - even a little - when the engine and radiator are hot. You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 436
instrument panel. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-55. Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode (V8 Engines Only) 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 437
: If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. See "Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode" under Engine Overheating on page 5-36 for information on driving to a safe place in an - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 438
condition, can indicate a serious problem. For more information, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-55. If you get an engine overheat warning and don't have a low coolant condition, but see or hear no steam, the problem lift the hood but to get service you have an air conditioner and it's - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 439
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 C. Engine Fan If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, don't do anything else until it cools down. The vehicle should be - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 440
leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator service. Turn off the engine. Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant is not covered covered by your warranty. Always use DEX-COOL®(silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle. {CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 441
Coolant Surge Tank for Gasoline Engines If you haven't found a problem yet, check to see if coolant is visible in the the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it. See Engine Coolant on page 5-33 for more information - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 442
before the proper coolant mixture will. Your CAUTION: (Continued) Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture. {CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 443
the vehicle on a level surface. You can remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. 2. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise (left) about one full turn. If you hear a hiss, wait - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 444
the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and fan spins faster to provide more air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the fan is spinning slower and This is normal and should not be mistaken as the transmission slipping or making extra shifts. It is merely the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 445
power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for reservoir location. 5-45 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 446
cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. Adding Washer Fluid Your vehicle has a low washer fluid message that - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 447
, follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding water. • Do not 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 the washer system. Also, water does not clean as well as washer fluid. Open the cap with the washer - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 448
the reservoir. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 449
You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap. Just look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should be above MIN. If it is not, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak. After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make sure the level is above - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 450
from a sealed container only. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-14. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir. Notice: • Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 451
brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque specifications. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. {CAUTION: The brake - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 452
puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change - for the worse. The braking performance you have come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts. Warning: Battery posts, terminals - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 453
to your vehicle that would not be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it will not work, and it could damage your vehicle. 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. {CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 454
procedure. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear not in NEUTRAL. Notice: If you leave your radio or other accessories on during the jump - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 455
light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You do not need to add water to the ACDelco® battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps has one. Negative (−) will go to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one. Don't - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 456
one. 10. Don't let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (−) cable doesn't go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal engine part of the vehicle with the dead battery, or to a remote negative (-) terminal if the vehicle has one. 5-56 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 457
marked GND, on the vehicle with the dead battery. 12. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while. 13. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery. If it won't start after a few tries, it probably needs service. V8 Engine 8.1L Engine V8 Engine, Diesel Similar - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 458
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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 459
check rear axle fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspected and repaired.. To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. The proper level for the 1500 Series is - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 460
is not necessary to regularly check transfer case fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspected and repaired. Manual Transfer Case 5-60 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 461
to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-14. Front Axle When to Check Lubricant Automatic Transfer Case To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be It is not necessary to regularly check front axle fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 462
the differential is at operating temperature (warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole. What to Use To determine what kind of lubricant to use see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-14. Noise Control System Tampering with Noise Control System - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 463
element of design incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose of noise control, prior to its sale or delivery to the ultimate purchaser or while of the fan shroud (if equipped). Air Intake: • Removal of the air cleaner silencer. • Modification of the air cleaner. Exhaust: • Removal of the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 464
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. If your vehicle is equipped with two pins, remove the two pins on the top of the headlamp assembly. To remove - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 465
until it is tight. Use care not to touch the bulb with your fingers or hands. 6. Plug in the electrical connector. 7. Put the headlamp assembly back into the vehicle. Install and tighten the two pins. If your vehicle has one pin, install it and turn it into the locking feature. 5-65 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 466
fingers or hands. 7. Put the bulb socket into the turn signal housing and turn it clockwise until it locks. A. B. C. D. Sidemarker Lamp Retainer Clip Front Turn Signal Lamp Daytime Running Lamp 8. Reinstall the turn signal housing onto the vehicle, placing the hook and posts on the inner side into - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 467
Roof Marker Lamps 1. Remove the two screws and lift off the lens. 2. Remove the six screws on the center roof marker lamps. 3. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise to remove it from the socket. 5-67 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 468
4. Put a new bulb into the socket and turn clockwise until it locks in place. 5. Reinstall the lens and tighten the screws. 5-68 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 469
High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) and Cargo Lamp 1. Remove the screws and lift off the lamp assembly. A. Cargo Lamps B. Center High-Mounted Stoplamps 2. Remove the CHMSL bulb holder back plate from the housing by pressing the release tabs. 3. Remove the CHMSL bulb by pulling the bulb straight out - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 470
, put a new cargo lamp bulb into the socket and press it in until it is tight before turning the socket counterclockwise. 5. Put the bulb holder back plate into the lamp housing. 6. Reinstall the lamp assembly and tighten the screws. 5-70 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 471
Taillamps 1. Open the tailgate. 2. Remove the two rear lamp assembly screws near the tailgate latch and pull out the lamp assembly. Your vehicle may have one of the following taillamp assemblies: A. Stoplamp B. Turn Signal C. Back-up Lamp 5-71 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 472
A. B. C. D. Stoplamp Turn Signal Lamp Back-up Lamp Side Marker Lamp 3. Press the release tab, if equipped, and turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove it from the taillamp housing. 5-72 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 473
the lens. 2. Lift the lens off the lamp assembly. 3. Pull the old bulb straight out from the socket. 4. Put a new bulb into the socket and press it in until it is tight. 5. Reinstall the lens and the lens seal. Taillamps (Chassis Cab Models) A. Turn Signal Lamp B. Stoplamp C. Back-up Lamp 5-73 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 474
Front Parking and Turn Lamp 3457A Rear Marker Lamp, Taillamp and 3157 Stop Lamp** Taillamp and Stop Lamp** 1157 Sidemarker Lamp (If Equipped) 194 Rear Turn Lamp 3157 Rear Turn Lamp ** 1156 Back-up Lamp 3157 Back-up Lamp** 1156 Center , see Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 6-17. 5-74 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 475
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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 476
about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your GM Warranty booklet for details. booklet included with your vehicle's Owner's Manual. CAUTION: (Continued) • Underinflated tires as a result of too muchfriction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See "Loading Your Vehicle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 477
a particular tire's width, height, aspect ratio, construction type and service description. See the "Tire Size Code" illustration later in this section for more detail. (B) Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec): Original equipment tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 478
Uniform Tire Quality Grading on page 5-90. (G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load. For information on recommended tire pressure see Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-84 and Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-57. LT - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 479
service description. See the "Tire Size" illustration later in this section for more detail. (B) Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec Load: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load when used as a single. For information on recommended tire - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 480
parts of a tire size. (C) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that indicates the tire height-to-width measurements. For example, if the tire size aspect Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches. (F) Service Description: The service description indicates the load range and speed rating of a - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 481
square inch (psi) or kilopascal (kPa). Accessory Weight: This means the combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples of optional accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air conditioning. Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 482
inflated. The maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall. Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire. Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of curb weight; accessory weight; vehicle capacity weight; and production options weight - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 483
(P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles. Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated. Sidewall: The portion - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 484
weight, accessory weight, occupant weight and cargo weight. Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the original equipment tire size and information label. If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you can get the following: Unusual wear Bad handling Rough - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 485
nut is replaced, check the wheel nut torque after 100, 1,000 and 6,000 miles (160, 1 600 and 10 000 km) of driving. For proper torque and wheel nut air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the tire valve. Recheck the tire pressure with the tire gage. Be sure to put the valve caps back - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 486
the most important. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4, for scheduled rotation intervals. If your vehicle has single rear wheels and the tread design for your front tires is the same as your rear tires, use the rotation pattern shown here when rotating your tires. 5-86 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 487
nuts are properly tightened. See "Wheel Nut Torque" under Capacities and Specifications on page 5-134. {CAUTION: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts rear wheels and the tread design for the front tires is different from the dual rear lined up. 5-87 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 488
or fabric. • The tire has a bump, bulge or split. • The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that can't be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage. 5-88 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 489
monitoring system performance and other things during normal service on your vehicle. If your tires have with those not having a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating and cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 490
available on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 491
on wet pavement as measured under 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 492
your vehicle. {CAUTION: Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you lose control. You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 493
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. Whenever a wheel, wheel bolt or wheel nut is replaced on a dual wheel setup, check the wheel nut torque - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 494
or other vehicle parts. Thearea damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose control of your vehicle axle. Don't use chains on the tires of the front axle. Tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain manufacturer's instructions - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 495
properly. If air goes out If a front tire fails, 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. {CAUTION: Lifting part shows how to use your jacking equipment to change a flat tire - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 496
allow passengers to remain in the vehicle. 5. Put the wheel blocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving: 1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P). 3. Turn off the engine and - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 497
The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. Removing the Spare Tire and Tools Extended Cab® Regular Cab and Crew Cab 5-97 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 498
second row seat. 1. If there is a cover, move the seats forward and turn the wing nut on the cover counterclockwise to remove it. For crew cab models the wing nut counterclockwise. 4. There is also a wing nut used to retain the storage bag and tools. To remove it, turn the wing nut counterclockwise. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 499
1. If your vehicle is equipped with a hoist lock (J), open the spare tire lock cover on the bumper and use the ignition key to remove the lock. 2. Assemble the wheel wrench (H) and the two jack handle extensions (I) as shown. A. Spare Tire (Valve Stem - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 500
3. Insert the hoist end (open end) (F) of the extension through the hole (G) in the rear bumper. 5. The wheel wrench has a hook that allows you to pull the hoist cable towards you to assist in reaching the spare tire. Be sure the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 501
and Installing the Spare Tire Use the following pictures and instructions to remove the flat tire and raise the vehicle. 1. Remove the center cap by placing the chisel end of the wheel wrench in the slot on the wheel and gently prying the cap out. The tools you'll be using include the bottle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 502
is on the front of the vehicle (Two-Wheel Drive 1500 Series vehicles), axle between the spring anchor and the shock absorber bracket. If you have added a snow plow to the front of your vehicle, lower the snow plow fully before raising the vehicle. 2. Use the wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 503
jack you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. {CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle. Front Position 2WD 1500 Series 5-103 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 504
Front Position All Other Models Rear Position 4. Make sure the jack head is positioned so that the rear axle is resting securely between the grooves that are on the jack head. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the vehicle. Raise the vehicle far - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 505
CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off spare wheel. {CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 506
7. After mounting the spare, put the wheel nuts back on with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each wheel nut by hand. Then use the wheel wrench to tighten the nuts until the wheel is held against the hub. Front Position All Models 5-106 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 507
Front Position 2WD 1500 Series Rear Position 5-107 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 508
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 torque specification. When you reinstall the regular wheel and tire, you must also reinstall the center cap. Place the cap - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 509
possible. Return the bottle jack, wheel blocks, wheel wrench and jack extensions to their location behind the passenger's seat. A. Wing Nut B. Wheel Blocks C. Retaining Bracket and Wingnut D. Gloves E. Wheel Wrench and Extensions F. Storage Bag G. Mounting Bracket H. Bottle Jack I. Retaining Hook - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 510
: 1. Put the jack tools and gloves in the tool bag and place in the retaining bracket. Tighten down the wing nut. 2. Assemble the wheel blocks and bottle jack together with the wing nut and retaining hook. 3. Position the jack in the mounting bracket. Position the holes in the base of the jack - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 511
retainer is fully seated across the underside of the wheel. 4. Insert the hoist end (F) through the hole (G) in the rear bumper and into the hoist shaft. 5. Raise the tire part way upward. Make sure the retainer is seated in the wheel opening. 6. Raise the tire fully against the underside of the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 512
stem pointing down. See "Storing a Flat or Spare Tire, Jack and Tools" earlier in this section. {CAUTION: Before beginning this procedure read all the instructions. Failure to read and follow the instructions could damage the hoist assembly and you and others could get hurt. Read and follow the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 513
. 5. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until approximately six inches (15 cm) of cable 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 the cable is not visible proceed to Step 6. If - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 514
and place it (with the wheel blocks) under the vehicle towards the front of the rear bumper. Position the center lift point of the jack under the center of the spare tire. 9. Turn the wrench clockwise to raise the jack until it lifts the end fitting. 10. Continue raising the jack until the spare tire - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 515
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 hanging under the vehicle, turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the cable back up. Have the hoist assembly inspected as soon as you can. You will - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 516
back onto your vehicle. This way, a spare tire will be available in case you need it again. Your vehicle may have a different size you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe 's warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 517
these unless this manual says you can. whole trim panel or section. Mask surrounding trim along stitch or welt lines. 3. Follow the directions on the container label. 4. Apply cleaner 123. Here are some cleaning tips: • Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. • Clean up stains as soon as - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 518
Problems Stains caused by such things as catsup, coffee (black), egg, fruit, fruit juice, milk, soft drinks, vomit, urine and blood can be removed as follows: 1. Carefully scrape off excess stain, then sponge the soiled area with cool water. 2. If a stain remains, follow the cleaning instructions - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 519
and even make it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions. Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. {CAUTION: Do glass. See Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials on page 5-123. Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 520
. 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." Washing Your Vehicle The best way to preserve your vehicle's finish is to keep it clean by washing it often - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 521
oil covered glass parts should be cleaned regularly to keep their luster. Washing with water is all that is usually needed. However, you may use chrome polish on chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary. Use special care with aluminum trim. To avoid damaging protective trim, never use auto - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 522
off immediately after application. Don't take your vehicle through an automatic car wash that has silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes. These body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 523
dust control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, corrosion and rust can develop on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, 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 12,000 miles (20 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 524
wheel covers. Removes dust, fingerprints, and surface contaminants. Spray on wipe off. Removes swirl marks, fine scratches and other light surface contamination. Removes light Low Gloss See your General Motors parts department for these products. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6- - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 525
your vehicle. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 526
door is on the driver's side edge of the instrument panel. Pull off the cover to access the fuse block. Power Windows and Other Power Options Circuit breakers protect the power windows and other power accessories caused by electrical problems. Look at the one of the identical size and rating. To - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 527
(Relay) HVAC 1 L DOOR CRUISE UNLOCK (Relay) RR FOG LP BRAKE DRIVER UNLOCK Fuses RR Wiper SEO ACCY WS WPR TBC ACCY IGN 3 4WD Usage Not Used Special Equipment Option Accessory Windshield Wipers Truck Body Controller Accessory Ignition, Heated Seats Four-Wheel Drive System, Auxiliary Battery IGN 0 TBC - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 528
Signals and Sidemarkers Harness Connector Driver Door Module Not Used Power Door Lock System Not Used Truck Body Controller Flasher Module Left Power Windows Circuit Breaker Truck Body Controller Truck Body Controller Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block The center instrument panel utility block is - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 529
Not Used Driver and Passenger Seat Module Circuit Breaker Right Power Windows Circuit Breaker Not Used Infotainment Harness Connection Underhood Fuse Block The 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 530
5-130 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 531
and Intake Air Heater Gasoline Accessory Power Auxiliary Power (Single Battery and Diesels Only)/ Dual Battery (TP2) Do not install fuse. Mid Bussed Electrical Center Power Feed, Front Seats, Right Doors Front Climate Control Fan Left Bussed Electrical Center, Door Modules, Door Locks, Auxiliary - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 532
, Air Conditioning Relay, Turn Signal/Hazard Switch, Starter Relay Ride Control Backup Lamps Trailer Wiring Powertrain Control Module, Fuel Pump Fuel Pump (Relay) Fuses B/U LP RR DEFOG HDLP-HI PRIME 02B SIR FRT PARK DRL SEO IGN TBC IGN1 HI HDLP-LT LH HID DRL IPC/DIC Usage Back-up Lamps, Automatic - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 533
Usage Climate Control Controller Cigarette Lighter High Beam Headlamp-Right Headlamp Low Beam Relay Air Conditioning Compressor Air Conditioning Compressor Relay Not Used Audio System Mid Bussed Electrical Center, Rear Heated Seats, HomeLink Headlamp Low Beam-Left Brake Transmission Shift Interlock - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 534
capacities are approximate. When adding see the refrigerant charge label under the hood for charge capacity information and requirements. Capacities 040 inches (1.01 mm) 0.060 inches (1.52 mm) Model C/K 1500 & C/K 2500 C/K 3500 Tire Pressure Description Torque 6 Bolts (14 mm) 140 lb ft (190 Y) 8 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 535
16.0 quarts 15.0 L VORTEC™ 8100 V8 Manual Transmission 22.0 quarts 21.0 L VORTEC™ 8100 V8 Automatic Transmission 21.0 quarts 20.0 L * Vehicles equipped with the optional engine oil cooler. ** Vehicles equipped with the optional air conditioner. Engine Oil With Filter After refill, the level must be - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 536
Fuel Tank Short Bed 1500 Crew Cab Long Bed Chassis Cab (pickup Box Delete) Chassis Cab 3500 Chassis Cab 3500 (California) Chassis Cab 3500 Chassis Cab 3500 (California) Chassis Cab 3500HD Chassis Cab 3500HD Air Conditioning Refrigerant Capacity Air Conditioning Refrigerant R-134a Capacities English - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 537
...6-12 Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ...6-14 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts ...6-17 Maintenance Record ...6-19 Maintenance Schedule ...6-2 Introduction ...6-2 Schedule ...6-3 Scheduled Maintenance ...6-4 Additional Required Services ...6-6 Maintenance Footnotes ...6-8 Owner Checks and - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 538
Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections, replacement parts and recommended fluids and lubricants as prescribed in this manual are necessary to keep your vehicle in good working condition. Any damage caused by failure to follow scheduled maintenance may not be covered by warranty. Your Vehicle and - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 539
Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we do not know exactly how you will drive it service needs, you will know that GM-trained and supported service technicians will perform the work using genuine GM parts. If you want to get service information, see Service - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 540
next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the engine oil life system may not indicate that vehicle service is necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 541
(if equipped). If necessary, replace filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-23. An Emission Control Service. See footnote †. Rotate tires and check inflation pressures and wear. See Tires on page 5-76. Inspect brake system. See footnote (a). Check engine coolant and windshield washer - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 542
system for loose or damaged components. Vehicles without a filter restriction indicator: Replace engine air cleaner filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-23. An Emission Control Service. 6-speed manual transmission only: Change clutch fluid. See footnote (n). 25,000 (41 500) 50,000 (83 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 543
).See footnote (h). Except Allison: Change automatic transmission fluid and filter (normal service). Four-wheel drive with automatic transfer case only: Change transfer case fluid. See footnote (g). Inspect evaporative control system. An Emission Control Service. See footnotes † and (k). 25,000 (41 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 544
brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect other brake parts, including calipers, parking brake, etc. Maintenance Footnotes † The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 545
inspect front and rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs of wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect power steering lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Visually check constant velocity joints, rubber boots and axle seals for - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 546
. Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper hook-up, routing and condition. Check that the purge valve works properly (if equipped). Replace as needed. (l) Change filter only at the first maintenance service performed on the vehicle. (m) Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 547
At the First 100, 1,000 and 6,000 Miles (160, 1 600 and 10 000km) Check dual wheel nut torque. For proper torque, see Capacities and Specifications on page 5-134. Engine Coolant Level Check Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL® coolant mixture if necessary. See Engine - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 548
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control System Check {CAUTION: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 549
GM Goodwrench dealer if service is required. Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission Park (P) Mechanism Check {CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of your vehicle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 550
DOT-4 brake fluid. Power Steering GM Power Steering Fluid (GM Part No. U.S. 89021184, in System Canada 89021186). GM Goodwrench Synthetic Manual Manual Transmission Transmission Fluid (GM Part No. (5-Speed with U.S. 12346190, in Canada 10953477) or equivalent SAE Low Gear, 75W-85 GL-4 gear oil. RPO - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 551
®-III Automatic Transmission Fluid. Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in Canada 10953474). Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (GM Part No. U.S. 12346293, in Canada 992723) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2 Category LB or GC-LB. Usage Chassis Lubrication Front Axle - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 552
Usage Automatic Transfer Case Front Axle Propshaft Spline or One-Piece Propshaft Spline (Two-Wheel Drive with Auto. Trans.) Rear Driveline Center Spline Fluid/Lubricant AUTO-TRAK II Fluid (GM Part No. U.S. 12378508, in Canada 10953626). Spline Lubricant, Special Lubricant (GM Part No. U.S. 12345879 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 553
Parts Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer. VIN Code Oil Filter Engine Air Cleaner/Filter PCV Valve Spark Plugs Fuel Filter cm) *ACDelco® part number ** GM part number †A1518C high-capacity air cleaner filter may be substituted. 6- - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 554
VIN Code Oil Filter Engine Air Cleaner /Filter PCV Valve Spark Plugs Fuel Filter Wiper Blades Wiper Blade Type Wiper Blade Length U 25121792**/GF626* 15153642** ITTA 22 inches (56.0 cm) *ACDelco® part number ** GM part number †A1518C high-capacity air cleaner filter may be substituted. 6-18 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 555
performed in the boxes provided. See Maintenance Requirements on page 6-2 in this section. Any additional information from Owner Checks and Services on page 6-10 can be added on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts. Maintenance Record Date Odometer Reading - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 556
Maintenance Record (cont'd) Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed 6-20 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 557
Government ...7-11 Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors ...7-11 Service Publications Ordering Information ...7-12 Customer Assistance and Information ...7-2 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ...7-2 Online Owner Center ...7-3 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users ...7-4 Customer - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 558
If the matter has already been reviewed with the sales, service or parts manager, contact the owner of the dealership or the general Dealership name and location • Vehicle delivery date and present mileage When contacting GMC, please remember that your concern will likely be resolved at a dealer - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 559
file with the BBB Auto Line Program to enforce any of the program is free of charge and your case will generally be Center allows you to: • Get e-mail service reminders. • Access information about your specific vehicle, including tips and videos and an electronic version of this owner's manual - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 560
are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired and who use the Text Telephones (TTYs), GMC has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with GMC by dialing: 1-800-GMC-8583 (462-8583). (TTY users in Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.) United States Pontiac - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 561
aftermarket driver or passenger adaptive equipment you may require for your vehicle (hand controls, wheelchair/ scooter lifts, to determine your vehicle's eligibility, see your GM dealer or call the GM Mobility Assistance Center at 1-800-323-9935. Text telephone (TTY) users, call 1-800-833-9935. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 562
GMC-8782 (1-800-462-8782, Roadside Assistance prompt) As the proud owner of a new GMC vehicle, you are automatically enrolled in the GMC Roadside Assistance program. This value-added service failures are covered under GMC's Bumper-to-Bumper warranty. However, when other services are utilized, - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 563
-to-Bumper coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Several transportation options are available when warranty repairs are required. This will reduce your inconvenience during warranty repairs. • Description of the problem While we hope you never have the occasion to use our service - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 564
, 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 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 565
be supported by charges service alternative transportation may be available under the Courtesy Transportation Program. Please consult your dealer for details. Additional Program Information Courtesy Transportation is available during the Bumper-to-Bumper warranty coverage period, but it is not part - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 566
control components to optimize fuel economy, to monitor conditions for airbag deployment and, if so equipped, to provide anti-lock braking and to help the driver control government office, • as part of GM's defense of service agreement or manual for information on its operations and data collection. - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 567
involved in individual problems between you, your dealer or General Motors. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll- ll notify us. Please call us at 1-800-GMC-8782 (1-800-462-8782), or write: Pontiac-GMC Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33172 Detroit, MI 48232-5172 In - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 568
Service Manuals Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $120.00 Service Bulletins Service Bulletins give technical service information needed to knowledgeably service - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 569
: Includes a Portfolio, Owner's Manual, and Warranty Booklet. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00 Without Portfolio: Owner's Manual only. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $25 checks payable in U.S. funds. Current and Past Model Order Forms Service Publications are available for current and past model GM vehicles. To - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 570
NOTES 7-14 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 571
73 Where Are the Air Bags? ...1-72 Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine ...5-23 Air Conditioning ...3-30 Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) ...7-10 All Overseas Locations ...7-5 AM ...3-129 AM-FM Radio ...3-74 Antenna, Fixed Mast ...3-131 Antenna, XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ...3-131 Anti-lock - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 572
...2-39 Automatic Transmission ...2-23 Fluid ...5-25, 5-28 Operation ...2-26 Auxiliary Battery ...4-100 Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp Switch ...3-18 B Backing Up ...4-92 Battery ...5-52 BATTERY NOT CHARGING ...3-66 Battery Replacement ...2-6 Battery Run-Down Protection ...3-20 Battery Warning Light - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 573
Center Console Storage Area ...2-67 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) and Cargo Lamp ...5-69 Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block ...5-128 Center Passenger Position, Safety Belts ...1-25 Chains, Tires ...5-94 CHANGE ENGINE OIL ...3-68 Check Engine Light ...3-49 Check Engine Light ...3-49 CHECK OIL - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 574
Fabric/Carpet ...5-117 Cleaning Glass Surfaces ...5-119 Cleaning ...5-118 Climate Control System ...3-21 Dual ...3-22 Dual Automatic ...3-26 Clutch, Cap ...5-36 Cooling System ...5-39 Crew Cab ...1-58 Cruise Control ...3-11 Cruise Control Light Service Publications Ordering Information ...7-12 4 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 575
...4-40 Driving Through Flowing Water ...4-41 Driving Uphill ...4-28 Driving with a Trailer ...4-91 Dual Automatic Climate Control System ...3-26 Dual Climate Control System ...3-22 Dual Stage Air Bags ...1-74 Dual Tire Operation ...5-85 DVD Cleaning the Video Screen ...3-131 Distortion ...3-129 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 576
Programs ...3-51 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ...5-23 Battery ...5-52 Check and Service Engine Soon Light ...3-49 Coolant 30 Fixed Mast Antenna ...3-131 Flash-to-Pass ...3-9 Flat Tire ...5-95 Flat Tire, Changing ...5-96 Fluid Automatic Transmission ...5-25, 5-28 Manual Transmission ...5-31 Power - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 577
Rear Seat ...1-9 Following Distance ...4-92 Four-Wheel Drive ...2-35, 5-60 Four-Wheel-Drive Light ...3-53 Front Axle ...5-61 Front Axle Locking Feature ...2-35 Front Reading Lamps ...3-19 Front Storage Area ...2-67 Fuel ...5-4 Additives ...5-6 California Fuel ...5-5 Filling a Portable Fuel Container - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 578
Front 46 How to Inspect ...5-23 How to Use This Manual ...ii How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ...1-16 Coming From Your Engine ...5-37 If the Light is Flashing ...3-50 If the Light Is On Steady ...3-50 If You Are Caught ...3-4 Instrument Panel Brightness Control ...3-19 Instrument Panel Fuse - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 579
With the Engine Running (Automatic Transmission Only) ...2-50 LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR (Crew Cab) ...3-69 Light Air Bag Off ...3-37 Air Bag Readiness ...3-36 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ...3-45 Battery Warning ...3-42 Light (cont.) Brake System Warning ...3-43 Cruise Control ...3-53 Four-Wheel-Drive - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 580
Parts ...6-17 Owner Checks and Services ...6-10 Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ...6-14 Scheduled Maintenance ...6-4 Using Your ...6-3 Your Vehicle and the Environment ...6-2 Maintenance When Trailer Towing ...4-95 Making Turns ...4-92 Malfunction Indicator Light ...3-49 Manual Seats ...1-3 Manual - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 581
Parts ...6-17 O Odometer ...3-35 Off-Road Recovery ...4-17 Oil Engine ...5-18 Pressure Gage ...3-52 OIL LIFE RESET ...3-69 OIL PRESSURE LOW ...3-69 Older Children, Restraints ...1-33 Online Owner Center ...7-3 OnStar® Personal Calling ...2-65 OnStar® Services ...2-65 OnStar® Steering Wheel Controls - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 582
Reception ...3-129 RANGE SHIFT INHIBITED (Allison Transmission® Only) ...3-69 RDS Messages ...3-82, 3-93, 3-107 Rear Axle ...5-59 Locking ...4-12 Rear Door Security Locks ...2-12 Rear Doors ...2-13 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ...1-30 Rear Seat Audio Controls ...3-126 Rear Seat Audio (RSA - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 583
Systems Checking ...1-87 Replacing Parts ...1-88 Resynchronization ...2-7 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...2-23 Right Front Passenger Position, Safety Belts ...1-25 Right Front Passenger Position Top Strap Anchor (Regular and Extended Models) ...1-45 RIGHT REAR DOOR AJAR (Crew Cab) ...3-70 - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 584
...5-3 Engine Soon Light ...3-49 Publications Ordering Information ...7-12 SERVICE 4 WHEEL STEER ...3-71 SERVICE 4WD ...3-71 SERVICE AIRBAG ...3-70 SERVICE BRAKE BOOSTER ...3-70 SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM ...3-70 Service Bulletins ...7-12 Service Manuals ...7-12 SERVICE RIDE CONTROL ...3-71 Setting Preset - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 585
...4-12 Steering in Emergencies ...4-13 Steering Tips ...4-12 Steering Wheel Controls, Audio ...3-128 Step-Bumper Pad ...4-103 Stereo RCA Jacks ...3-122 Storage Areas ...2-66 Center Console Storage Area ...2-67 Cupholder(s) ...2-66 Front Storage Area ...2-67 Glove Box ...2-66 Storing a Flat or Spare - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 586
New Tires ...5-88 To Use the Engine Coolant Heater ...2-25 Tonneau Cover ...2-67 Top Strap ...1-43 Top Strap Anchor Location ...1-45 Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission) ...2-51 Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires ...4-88 Tow/Haul Mode Light ...3-53 Tow/Haul Mode, Overdrive Disable ...3-53 Tow/Haul - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 587
Control ...4-5 Damage Warnings ...iv Loading ...4-57 Parking Your ...2-52 Symbols ...iv Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data Records ...7-10 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ...5-125 Service Parts ...5-92 When to Add Engine Oil ...5-19 When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil Life System) ...5-21 When - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 588
16 Manual ...2-16 Power ...2-17 Swing-Out Windows ...2-18 Windshield Washer ...3-10 Fluid ...5-46 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ...5-74 Fuses ...5-126 Windshield Wipers ...3-9 Winter Driving ...4-47 X XM™ XM™ (48 US Satellite Radio Antenna System ...3-131 Satellite Radio Service Contiguous