2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup Owner's Manual
2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup Manual
2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup manual content summary:
- 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 1
2006 GMC Sierra Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ...1-1 Front Seats ...1-3 Rear Seats ...1-8 Safety Belts ...1-11 Child Restraints ...1-31 Airbag System ...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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 2
the GM Emblem, GMC, the GMC Truck Emblem, and the name SIERRA are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest sold, leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it. How to Use This Manual Many people read the owner manual from beginning to end - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 3
you were to ignore the warning. You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means "Do Not," "Do Not do this" or "Do Not let this happen." { do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you do not, you or others could be hurt. iii - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 4
covered by your vehicle's warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals gage, or indicator, reference the following topics: Seats and Restraint Systems in Section 1 Features and Controls in Section 2 Instrument Panel - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 5
These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle: v - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 6
✍ NOTES vi - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 7
Safety Belts ...1-15 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ...1-16 Driver Position ...1-16 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ...1-24 Right Front Passenger Position ...1-25 Center Front Passenger Position ...1-25 Rear Seat Passengers ...1-26 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ...1-29 Safety Belt Extender - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 8
1 Seats and Restraint Systems Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ...1-86 Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ...1-86 Restraint System Check ...1-87 Checking the Restraint Systems ...1-87 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash ...1-88 Airbag System ...1-70 Where Are the - 2006 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 the seat forward or rearward with cushion. Lift the bar to unlock the seat. Slide the seat to where you want it and release the bar. Try to move the seat with your body to be - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 10
rearward. See Reclining Seatbacks on page 1-6. If your vehicle has manual reclining seatbacks, see Reclining Seatbacks on page 1-6. Power Lumbar moving the horizontal control forward or rearward. 1-4 To increase or decrease support, hold the control forward or rearward. Keep in mind that as your - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 11
must be running for the heated seats to work. To heat only the seatback, press the vertical button with the heated seatback symbol. An indicator light on the seatback button will be lit to designate that only the seatback is being heated. Additional presses of the seatback button will cycle through - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 12
could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is locked. To adjust the seatback, lift the manual lever located on the outboard side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback in the desired position - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 13
injuries. 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. Do not have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. Adjust your head restraint so that the top of the restraint is closest to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 14
Seatback Latches The front seatbacks fold forward to allow access to the rear of the cab. To fold the seatback forward, lift the lever located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. Rear Seats Rear Seat Operation (Extended Cab) Folding the Rear Seat The rear seat - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 15
The seat can also be folded down for more seating space. To fold the seat down, do the following: 1. Push the seat cushion while pulling the release strap which is located under the seat cushion. Pull the seat cushion down until it latches. 2. After latching the seat cushion, pull up on it to make - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 16
the rear seatback, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, and are not twisted. Make sure that the safety belt buckles on the driver's side seatback are accessible to the outboard and center occupant and are not under the seat cushions. {CAUTION: If the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 17
They Are for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 18
Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. See Safety Belt Reminder Light on page 3-34. Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here is why: They work - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 19
Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider does not stop. 1-13 - 2006 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 21
and will be in most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts - not instead of them. Every airbag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you are in a vehicle that has airbags, you still have to buckle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 22
belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see Older Children on page 1-31 or Infants and Young Children on page 1-33. Follow those rules for everyone's protection. First, you will want to know which restraint systems - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 23
belt across you. Do not 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 make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-30. Make sure - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 24
would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there is a sudden stop or crash, or if you pull the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 25
wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt 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 will not give nearly as much protection this way - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 26
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 into the buckle nearest you. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place. 1-20 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 27
Q: What is 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 28
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 ribs, which are not as strong as - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 29
wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you would not have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it. A: The belt is twisted across the body. 1-23 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 30
worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy. The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it is more likely that the fetus will not be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 31
way, you will engage the child restraint locking feature which may turn off the passenger's frontal airbag. If this happens unintentionally, just let the belt go back all the way and start again. Center Front Passenger Position Lap Belt If your vehicle has a front bench seat, someone can sit in the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 32
in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. 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 belt. If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-30. Make sure the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 33
plate and pull the belt across you. Do not 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. 3. To make the lap part tight, pull up on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 34
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 pelvic bones. And you - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 35
rear seat. Here is how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt: 1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the interior body. 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The guide must be on top of the belt. 2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges of the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 36
the instruction sheet that comes with the extender. {CAUTION: A safety belt that is not properly worn may not provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 37
Older Children Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts? A: 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 hips, just touching the top of - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 38
see Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides on page 1-29. If the child is sitting in the center rear seat passenger position, move the child toward the safety belt buckle. In either case, be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child's shoulder, so that in a crash the child's upper body would have - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 39
ride in vehicles, they should have the protection provided by appropriate restraints. Young children should not use the vehicle's adult safety belts belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt's - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 40
{CAUTION: People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby does not weigh much - until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it. For example, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 41
older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle's safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Q: What are the different types of add-on child restraints? A: Add - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 42
including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant's neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 43
Child Restraint Systems An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain 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) - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 44
restraint for the child's body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit of the vehicle's safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 45
children. A built-in child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add-on child restraint system is a portable one, which is purchased vehicle's safety belt or LATCH system, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. To - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 46
-on child restraint, refer to the 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 are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer. Keep in mind - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 47
has the passenger sensing system or an airbag off switch and the passenger airbag status indicator or the airbag off light shows off. Never put in a rear seat. {CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger's airbag if - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 48
use with the LATCH system Make sure that a LATCH-compatible child restraint is properly installed using the anchors, or use the vehicle's safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. When installing a child - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 49
Your vehicle, except for regular cab models, has lower anchors and top tether anchors. Your child restraint may have lower attachments and a top tether. Not all vehicle seating positions or child restraints have lower anchors and attachments or top tether anchors and attachments. Top Tether Anchor - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 50
States, some child restraints also have a top tether. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint. If the child restraint does not have a not install a child restraint in the center seat position. See Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position on page 1-56 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 51
For regular and crew cab models, there is an anchor symbol on the trim covers to assist you in locating the top tether anchors. j (Lower Anchor): Seating Cab For crew cab models, the rear passenger side and center seating positions have exposed metal lower anchors located in the crease between the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 52
covers on the back panel behind the center and passenger seats. Do not install a child restraint in the center seat position. See Securing a Child Restraint in the Center fabric loop at the top of the seatback that you will use to route the top tether through. Be sure to use an anchor located on the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 53
or local law requires that the top tether be attached, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be attached. There information. Crew Cab For crew cab models, there are covered top tether anchors for each seating position located on the back panel of - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 54
child could be seriously injured or killed. Make sure that a LATCH-type child restraint is properly installed using the anchors, or use the vehicle's safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. 1-48 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 55
for additional information. 1.2. Find the top tether anchor. 1.3. Remove the trim cover to expose the anchor. 1.4. Route, attach and tighten the top tether according to your child restraint instructions and the following instructions: If the position you are using does not have a head restraint and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 56
System) on page 1-65 for instructions on installing the child restraint using the safety belts. belts. Refer to your child restraint manufacturer instructions and the instructions in this manual restraint and route the top tether through the fabric loop and under the center shoulder belt. Then, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 57
center position, route the top tether through the fabric loop. Then, raise the head restraint on the passenger side and attach the top tether to the metal anchor point located at the rear passenger position. 2.4. Tighten the top tether when and as the child restraint manufacturer's instructions - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 58
information. 1.2. Place the child restraint in the vehicle, near the seating position that you are using. 1.3. Route the top tether according to your child restraint instructions and the following instructions: If the position you are using does not have a head restraint and you are using a single - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 59
the trim cover to expose push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is locked. 1.6. Lift the seatback up and push it rearward. Then lower the seat cushion until tether and the safety belts. Refer to your child restraint manufacturer instructions and the instructions in this manual. 2.1. Find the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 60
for Children (LATCH) on page 1-42. If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 61
the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 62
to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with the child restraint and to belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position {CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 63
or if the instructions that come with the child Manual Seats on page 1-3 or Power Seats on page 1-4. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 64
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. 1-58 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 65
, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. You should not be able to pull more of the belt out of the retractor once the lock has been set. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 66
Canada Even though the airbag off switch is designed to turn off the passenger's frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe, and no one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual on this, including important safety information and illustrations of alternate switch designs. 1-60 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 67
unless the airbag is off. Here is why: {CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right front passenger's airbag could inflate even though the switch is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 68
be anchored or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that Light on page 3-35. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 69
the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the 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, you may find it helpful to use - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 70
and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children disconnect it. Unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 71
If your rearview mirror has one of the indicators pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has a passenger sensing system. United States Canada The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger's frontal airbag when an infant in a rear-facing infant seat - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 72
child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger's frontal airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 73
shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Your vehicle has a right front passenger's frontal airbag. See Passenger Sensing System on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 74
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. 1-68 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 75
anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-42. 8. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 9. If your vehicle has a passenger sensing system and the airbag is off - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 76
system: CAUTION: (Continued) {CAUTION: You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt - even if you have airbags. Wearing your safety belt the safety belts. Airbags are CAUTION: (Continued) designed to work with safety belts, but do not replace them. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 77
young children and infants. Neither the vehicle's safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see Older Children on page 1-31 and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 78
panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. Where Are the Airbags? The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-35 for more information. The driver's airbag is in the middle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 79
{CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering. The right front passenger's airbag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side. 1-73 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 80
of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows down. The airbag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain. As always, wear your safety belt. See Off-Road Driving on page 4-16 for more tips on off-road - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 81
it can be somewhat above or below this range.) Vehicle's with dual stage airbags are also equipped with special sensors which enable the sensing system to monitor the position of both the driver and passenger front seats. The seat position sensor provides information which is used to determine if - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 82
the instrument panel for the right front passenger's bag - may be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but provided by safety belts. Airbags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant's upper body, stopping the occupant - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 83
will not be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include airbag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. • Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module which records information - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 84
passenger's position is a member of a passenger risk group identified by the national government as follows: Infant. An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the front seat because: • my vehicle has no rear seat; • my vehicle has a rear seat too small to accommodate a rear-facing infant seat - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 85
the potential harm from the passenger airbag in a crash greater than the potential harm from turning off the airbag and allowing the passenger, even if belted, to hit the dashboard or windshield in a crash. 1-79 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 86
airbag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right rear-facing child restraint in your vehicle) until you have your vehicle serviced. United States Canada To turn off the right front passenger's airbag, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 87
have the passenger sensing system. Passenger Airbag Status Indicator Passenger Sensing System If your rearview mirror has a passenger sensing system. The indicator rearview mirror during the system check. When the system check is complete, either system will turn off the right front passenger's - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 88
The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger's seat and safety belt. The sensors are rear seat, including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat. Never - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 89
the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger's frontal airbag if: • the right front passenger seat is unoccupied • the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 90
and then enable the passenger's airbag. • or if there is a critical problem with the airbag system or the passenger sensing system When the passenger's frontal airbag has been turned off by the passenger sensing system, the off indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 91
See Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-86 for more information about modifications that can affect how the system operates. {CAUTION: If the airbag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 92
be serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in several places around your vehicle. You do not want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 93
and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 94
crash, you may need new LATCH system parts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system was not being used at the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 95
...2-21 Ignition Positions ...2-22 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...2-23 Starting the Engine ...2-23 Engine Coolant Heater ...2-25 Automatic Transmission Operation ...2-26 Tow/Haul Mode ...2-31 Manual Transmission Operation ...2-34 Four-Wheel Drive ...2-38 Parking Brake ...2-52 Shifting Into Park - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 96
System ...2-73 Universal Home Remote System ...2-75 Universal Home RemoteSystem Operation ...2-76 Storage Areas ...2-79 Glove Box ...2-79 Cupholder(s) ...2-79 Coinholder(s) ...2-79 Front Storage Area ...2-79 Center Console Storage Area ...2-79 Tonneau Cover Manual Mirrors ...2-68 Outside Camper-Type - 2006 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 children. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 98
dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining replacements. Notice: If you ever lock your keys in Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6. If your vehicle is equipped with the OnStar® system with an system by other than an authorized service facility could void - 2006 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 on page 2-5. • If you are still having trouble, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service. You can choose different - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 100
close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it is probably time to change the battery. 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. L (Panic): Press this button to sound the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 101
replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter, do the following: Resynchronization Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system Remove and replace the battery with a three-volt CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up. 3. Align the covers and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 102
to lock and unlock your vehicle. You can use the keyless entry system, if equipped, or you can also use your key. To lock the 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 103
is off. The power door locks will also automatically lock when the vehicle is out of PARK (P), or for manual transmission, when the vehicle reaches 8 mph (24 km/h). Operating the power locks may interact with the theft-deterrent system, if equipped. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-19. 2-9 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 104
program your vehicle's power door locks. You can program this feature through the Driver Information Center (DIC), or by the following method. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-64. Programmable /h). This is the mode that is pre-programmed in the factory for manual transmission vehicles. 2-10 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 105
The following instructions tell you how to change the automatic door lock mode (automatic transmission only). Choose one of the two 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 unlock. 2-11 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 106
The following instructions tell you how to change the automatic door unlock mode (automatic transmission only). Choose one of the four programming options listed above before entering the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 107
Rear Door Security Locks (Crew Cab) With this feature, you can lock the rear side doors so that they cannot be opened from the inside by passengers. This feature is located on the inside edge of the rear doors. 4. Close the door. 5. Do the same thing to the other rear door. The rear doors of your - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 108
2-13 for more information. Tailgate You must fully close a rear access door before you can close the front door. You can open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle while pulling the tailgate toward you. To shut the tailgate, firmly push it upward until it latches. After you put the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 109
vehicle. To remove the tailgate, do the following: 1. Raise 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 - 2006 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 111
an indicator light on the switch will illuminate. To disengage the lockout feature press the switch again, and the indicator light will turn when the ignition has been turned to ACCESSORY or RUN or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 2-23. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 112
Sliding Rear Window If your vehicle has this feature, squeeze the latch in the center of the window and slide the glass to open it. When you close the sun visor down to block glare. Swing the sun visor to the side to cover the side window. The passenger's side sun visor may have a vanity mirror. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 113
alarm system. The security light is located on the instrument panel cluster. See Security Light on page 3-49 for additional information. To activate the theft-deterrent system will turn off to save the battery power. If this occurs, you can turn off the alarm by pressing unlock on the remote - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 114
may be blown. To replace the fuse, see Instrument Panel Fuse Block on page 5-124 and Underhood Fuse Block on page 5-127. If the alarm does not sound or the vehicle's headlamps do not flash, see your dealer for service. • If you do not want to activate the theft-deterrent system, the vehicle should - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 115
light comes on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the engine off. However, your Passlock® system is not working properly and must be serviced can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. • Do not tow a - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 116
ignition is turned to LOCK. B (Accessory): This position allows you to use things like the radio, power windows and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. {CAUTION: On manual transmission vehicles, turning the key to key hard. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service. 2-22 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 117
assists in starting the engine and protects the electrical system. This feature may cause the engine to crank even after the ignition key is not in START Automatic Transmission To remove the key on manual transmission vehicles, turn the key to ACCESSORY, then press the button and turn the key to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 118
Manual Transmission The gear selector should be in neutral and the parking brake disengage the starter motor, cause your battery to be drained much sooner, and try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter. 2. If . If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the - 2006 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 do not, it could be damaged. How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 120
pawl that is designed to hold the weight of commercial medium duty trucks. Therefore, the Allison Transmission® uses larger parts than other automatic transmissions. These larger parts may sometimes make a clunk noise when the selector lever is moved from DRIVE (D) or REVERSE (R) to PARK (P). This - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 121
move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic is moving forward could damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 122
running at high speed is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit running at high speed may damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not running at high speed - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 123
as the transmission determines optimum settings for a particular shift. MANUAL MODE (M): This position, is available on vehicles with mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. If you manually select SECOND (2) in an automatic transmission, the transmission will - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 124
brackets. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3- brakes to hold the vehicle in place. If your truck has an Allison Transmission® your vehicle is equipped with a Range Selection System. To use this feature, do the following: 1. Move the shift lever to the MANUAL MODE (M). When in the MANUAL - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 125
on the end of the shift lever. Turn the Turn Tow/Haul on and off by pressing the button. When the Tow/Haul is on, a light on the instrument panel cluster will come on. 2-31 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 126
Light on page 3-50 for more information. If your vehicle is equipped with the Performance Package-Enhanced Towing, activating the manual selectable ride will adjust the shock absorber characteristics to enhance the ride a light on the instrument panel cluster will come on. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 127
the engine and the transmission to slow the vehicle. This reduces wear on the brakes system and increases control of the vehicle. The system constantly monitors the vehicle's speed, acceleration, engine torque, and brake pedal usage. It detects when the truck is on a downhill grade and the driver - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 128
Manual Transmission you are going less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you have come to a complete stop and it is hard to shift into SECOND (2), on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL. NEUTRAL - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 129
would 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 (1) when you are going less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you have come to a complete stop and it is hard to shift into FIRST (1), put the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 130
(1): With the vehicle at a stop, release the brake, press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then Only downshift into FIRST (1) when the vehicle has come to a complete stop. If the shift lever will six-speed pattern is unique to GM manual transmissions. The transmission always repositions the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 131
while pressing the accelerator pedal. Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake, when turning off your engine and parking your vehicle. Shift Speeds Do not clearance for the shift lever. For vehicles equipped with a center console, the front cup holder pulls out and turns 180° to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 132
out of four-wheel drive, you must be familiar with its operation. Read the part that follows before using four-wheel drive. See the appropriate text for the transfer case in your vehicle. Front Axle Locking Feature When this light comes on, you can shift to the next higher gear if weather, road - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 133
Manual Transfer Case A 4WD indicator light comes on when you shift into four-wheel drive and the front axle engages. See Four-Wheel-Drive Light on page 3-50. Some delay between shifting and when the indicator light comes on is normal. Recommended Transfer Case Settings Driving Conditions Normal - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 134
light When operating in Four-Wheel Low, the gear ratio provides additional torque when compared to four-wheel high driving in most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. This setting or if you have a manual transmission, even if you are in gear. You - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 135
noisier. • Shift the automatic transmission into NEUTRAL (N), or with a manual transmission, press the clutch pedal, or shift into NEUTRAL (N). Shifting from running and the engine at an idle set the parking brake. 2. Place the transmission into NEUTRAL (N). Shift the transfer case in one - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 136
Drive): This setting is ideal for use when road surface traction conditions are variable. When driving your vehicle in Automatic Four-Wheel Drive, the front axle is engaged, but the vehicle's power is sent to the rear wheels. 2-42 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 137
show which setting your transfer case is in. The indicator lights will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition and one will stay on. If the lights do not come on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. An indicator light will flash while the transfer case is being shifted. It - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 138
at any speed, except when shifting from Four-Wheel Low, and the indicator light will flash while shifting. It will remain on when the shift is when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the Four-Wheel Low indicator light will flash for 30 seconds and not complete the shift unless your vehicle is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 139
in gear and/or moving, the Four-Wheel High, AUTO 4WD, or Two-Wheel High indicator light will flash for 30 seconds but will not complete the shift unless your vehicle is moving less buttons for 10 seconds. The red NEUTRAL light will come on when the transfer case shift to NEUTRAL is complete. 2-45 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 140
FIRST (1) for vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. 8. Turn the engine off, by turning the key to ACCESSORY. 9. Place the transmission shift lever in of NEUTRAL To shift out of NEUTRAL: 1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. 2. Turn the ignition to RUN with the engine off - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 141
. See Parking Brake on page 2-52. (N) NEUTRAL: Shift the vehicle's transfer case to NEUTRAL only when towing your vehicle. See Recreational Vehicle Towing on page 4-62 or Towing Your Vehicle on page 4-62 for more information. 4 m (Four-Wheel High): This setting engages your front axle to help drive - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 142
chosen setting will stay on. If the lights do not come on, you should take your vehicle in for service. An indicator light will flash while shifting. Fast flashing High switch. This can be done at any speed, and the front axle will lock automatically with some delay. Shifting from Four-Wheel High to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 143
NEUTRAL (N) for an automatic transmission or the clutch pedal pressed for a manual transmission. The preferred method for shifting into four-wheel low is to your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the Four-Wheel Low indicator light will flash for 30 seconds and not complete the shift unless your - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 144
NEUTRAL (N) for an automatic transmission or the clutch pedal pressed for a manual transmission. The preferred method for shifting out of Four-Wheel Low is to must wait for the Two-Wheel High or Four-Wheel High indicator light to stop flashing and remain on before shifting your transmission into gear - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 145
High and Four-Wheel Low buttons for 10 seconds. The red NEUTRAL light will come on when the transfer case shift to NEUTRAL is complete. 6. Start to ACCESSORY. 9. Place the transmission shift lever in PARK (P) for an automatic transmission, or FIRST (1) for vehicles equipped with a manual transmission - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 146
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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 147
in PARK (P). {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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 148
(P). This is called "torque lock." To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver's seat. To move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 149
parts than other automatic transmissions. These larger parts may 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 150
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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 151
gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: • Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. • Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. • Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. • Your vehicle was damaged when - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 152
brake and move the automatic transmission shift lever to PARK (P), or the manual transmission shift lever to NEUTRAL. {CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system this can happen is a garage. Exhaust - with CO - can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 153
. Always set your parking brake. Follow the proper steps to System on page 2-73 for more information about the services OnStar® provides. Mirror Operation When turned on, this mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize glare from any headlamps behind you after dark. Mirrors Manual - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 154
in circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display reads a direction. Compass Variance Compass variance is the difference between earth's magnetic If not adjusted to account for compass variance, your compass could give false readings. 2. Press and hold the on/off button for six seconds. Release - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 155
automatic dimming mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark. The mirror also includes a dual display in the upper right corner of the mirror face. The compass reading and the outside temperature will both appear in the display at the same time - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 156
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 If not adjusted to account for compass variance, your compass could give false readings. 2. Press and hold the on/off button until a Z and a - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 157
enabled. For more information, see Passenger Sensing System on page 1-81. Compass Calibration The compass may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item. (8 km/h) or less until the display reads a direction. Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 158
driving the vehicle in circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display reads a direction. O(On/Off): This is the on/off button for the automatic dimming , for up to three seconds to turn the feature on and off. A light on the mirror will be lit while the feature is turned on. Compass Variance - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 159
The temperature can be displayed by pressing the TEMP button. Pressing the TEMP button once briefly, will toggle the temperature reading on and off. To alternate the temperature reading between Fahrenheit and Celsius, press and hold the TEMP button for approximately four seconds until the display - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 160
TEMP button to turn the automatic dimming feature on or off is approximately eight seconds. The indicator light to the left of the TEMP . Such interference may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item. Compass Operation reads a direction. 2-66 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 161
is the difference between earth's magnetic north and true geographic north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance, your compass could give false readings. To adjust for compass variance: 1. Find your current location and variance zone number on the following zone map. 2. Press and hold the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 162
see Passenger Sensing System on page 1-81 Outside Camper-Type Mirrors Cleaning the Manual Mirrors Adjust your outside mirrors so you can just see the side of your vehicle and have a clear view of objects behind you. The mirrors can be folded in to enter narrow areas. The use of hood-mounted air - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 163
camper-type mirrors, they can be adjusted so you can have a clear view of the objects behind you. Adjust the mirror by turning it left or right. Once the mirror is adjusted to the correct position, tighten the set screw to hold the mirror in place. These mirrors can also be manually manually folded - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 164
the mirror head. Move the selector switch located above the control pad 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 can be manually folded inward to prevent damage when going through an - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 165
on the driver's door armrest. If the mirrors are accidentally folded/unfolded manually, they may shake or flutter at normal driving speeds and may not want to adjust; then press the dots located on the four-way control pad to adjust the mirror. The mirrors may also include a memory function which - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 166
can be turned on or off through the Driver Information Center (DIC). See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-52 for more information. {CAUTION defogger button. See "Rear Window Defogger" under Dual Automatic Climate Control System on page 3-25 for further information. The mirror heat will turn - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 167
convenience services. If your airbags deploy, the system is designed to make an automatic call to OnStar® Emergency where we can request emergency services be need. A complete OnStar® User's Guide and the Terms and Conditions of the OnStar® Subscription Service Agreement are included in the vehicle's - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 168
Safe and Sound Plan Services • Driving Directions • RideAssist • Information and Convenience Services OnStar® Virtual Advisor Guide for more information. OnStar® Personal Calling As an OnStar® subscriber, the Personal Calling capability allows you to make hands-free calls using a wireless system - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 169
of the device. Changes and modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. The Universal Home Remote System, a combined universal transmitter and receiver, provides a way to replace up to three hand-held transmitters used to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 170
System of your Universal Home Remote Transmitter. Read the instructions completely before attempting to program the . It is recommended that a new battery be installed in your hand-held transmitter , releasing only when the Universal Home Remote indicator light begins to flash, after 20 seconds. Do not - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 171
the programmed channels. If the indicator light blinks rapidly for two seconds and then turns to a constant light, continue with Steps 6 through 8 "Learn" or "Smart" button. This can usually be found where the hanging antenna wire is attached to the motor-head unit. 7. Firmly press and release the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 172
"Programming Universal Home Remote" procedures, regardless of where you live, replace Step 3 under "Programming Universal Home Remote" with the following: button for at least half of a second. The indicator light will come on while the signal is being transmitted. Erasing Universal Home Remote - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 173
indicator light Center Console Storage Area Your vehicle may be equipped with a console manual transmission shift lever (if equipped). Storage Areas Glove Box Open the glove box by pulling the bottom of the handle upward. Cupholder(s) Your vehicle may have cupholders located in the front console - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 174
the directions below to remove the cover. 1. To remove, unsnap the cover. Roll it up and stow it using the buckle and the strap located at the front of the box. A. Back rail B. Side rail C. Rear bow D. Center bow E. Front bow F. Front rail 2. Remove the tonneau cover from the notch in the front - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 175
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. To clean the tonneau cover, use mild soap and water. If necessary, use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt trapped in the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 176
. To open or close your sunroof, the ignition must be on or Retained Accessory Power (RAP) must be active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 2-23 for more information. The sunroof control is located on the overhead console. Press the rear of the control to open the sunroof to the vent - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 177
the memory settings, do the following: 1. If you have an automatic transmission, place the vehicle in PARK (P). If you have a manual transmission, set the parking brake. 2. Adjust the driver's seat, including the seatback recliner and lumbar, and both outside mirrors to your preference. • If you - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 178
press the other numbered memory control button. • If you have a manual transmission, press and release the exit button on the memory control while the parking brake is set. • If this feature is activated in the Driver Information Center (DIC), removing the key from the ignition will move the seat - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 179
Belt Reminder Light ...3-34 Airbag Readiness Light ...3-35 Airbag Off Light ...3-35 Passenger Airbag Status Indicator ...3-37 Battery Warning Light ...3-40 Voltmeter Gage ...3-40 Up-Shift Light (Manual Transmission) ...3-41 Brake System Warning Light ...3-41 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 180
...3-132 XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ...3-133 Chime Level Adjustment ...3-133 Highbeam On Light ...3-49 Four-Wheel-Drive Light ...3-50 Tow/Haul Mode Light ...3-50 Cargo Lamp Light ...3-50 Fuel Gage ...3-51 Low Fuel Warning Light ...3-51 Driver Information Center (DIC) ...3-52 DIC Operation - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 181
✍ NOTES 3-3 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 182
Instrument Panel Overview Automatic Transmission Version shown, Manual Transmission Version similar 3-4 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 183
Parking Brake on page 2-52. R. Tilt Wheel Lever. See Tilt Wheel on page 3-6. S. Cigarette Lighter. See Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter on page 3-20. T. Accessory Power Outlet. See Accessory Power Outlet(s) on page 3-20. U. Manual Selectable Ride Control (If Equipped). See Manual Selectable Ride on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 184
warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. The hazard warning flasher button is located on top of the steering column. Horn To sound the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel. Tilt Wheel If your vehicle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 185
To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Then move the steering wheel to a comfortable position and release the lever to lock the wheel in place. • Flash-to-Pass. See Flash-to-Pass on page 3-9. • N Windshield Wipers. See Windshield Wipers on page 3-9. Turn Signal/ - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 186
toward you. Then release it. When the high beams are on, this indicator light on the instrument panel cluster will also be on. As you signal a turn and other drivers won't see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don't go on at all when - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 187
beam indicator on the instrument panel cluster will come on. Release the lever to return to normal delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the inserts. For more information, see Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement on page 5-71 Heavy snow or ice can - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 188
31 for an explanation of how cruise control interacts with the tap up/down gear selection, tow/haul and grade braking systems. R(On): This position activates the system. + (Resume/Accelerate): Push the lever to this symbol to make the vehicle accelerate or resume to a previously set speed. T(Set - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 189
accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will shut off. Setting Cruise Control {CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control on when you are not using cruise, you might - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 190
set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, disengages the cruise control. But you don't accelerate the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don't hold the switch at resume/ - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 191
accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or 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. 3-13 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 192
to this position puts the system into automatic headlamp mode. 3-14 Headlamps 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 a door is open. To disable the chime, turn the light off then back on. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 193
are required on all vehicles first sold in Canada. The DRL system will come on when the following conditions are met: • The ignition is on Canada, you can turn off the automatic headlamp system when parked at night by applying the parking brake before starting your vehicle. The headlamps will remain - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 194
Your vehicle is equipped with a light sensor located on the top of the instrument panel in the defroster grille. Be sure it is not covered, or the system will be on whenever the ignition is on. The system may also turn on your headlamps when driving through a parking garage, heavy overcast weather - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 195
are on. Remember, fog lamps alone will not give off as much light as your headlamps. Never use your fog lamps in the dark without turning on your headlamps. The fog lamps will go off whenever your high-beam headlamps come on. When the high beams go off, the fog lamps will - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 196
service center to install an auxiliary roof lamp. This button is located on the center the way up. Dome Lamps The dome lamps will come on when you open a door. When the wiring the button will activate the lamp and illuminate an indicator light near the button. Pressing the button again will turn - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 197
return it to the out position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will come on when you open a door. Front Reading Lamps The reading lamps are located on the overhead console. To turn on the reading lamps, press the button located next to each lamp. To turn them off, press the button - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 198
power outlet. To use the outlet, lift the cover. When not using it, always close the cover. Certain power accessory plugs may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could result in blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 199
Controls Climate Control System Temperature Knob The middle knob on the control panel lets you select the temperature of the air flowing into the passenger area. Turn the knob clockwise toward the red area for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise toward the blue area for cooler air. Mode Knob - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 200
. Mode Control To change the current mode, select one of the following: Dual Climate Control System With this system you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation for your vehicle. H (Vent): This mode directs air to the instrument panel outlets. )(Bi-Level): This mode directs half of the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 201
lever also adjusts the temperature to the center console outlets (if equipped). Passenger's Side: Air Conditioning): Press this button to turn the air-conditioning system on or off. When the button is pressed, an indicator light will come on and the system will begin to cool and dehumidify the air - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 202
to dehumidify the air to prevent window fogging. The recirculation mode cannot be selected while in defrost mode. Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear. < (Rear): Press this button to turn the rear window defogger on or off. An indicator light in the button will come on to let - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 203
driver's side knob is used to adjust the temperature of the air coming through the system on the driver's side. The 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 to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 204
or cool any faster. Be careful not to cover the sensor located on the top of the instrument panel near the windshield. This sensor regulates air temperature based on sun load, and also turns on your headlamps. To avoid blowing cold air in cold weather, the system will delay turning on the fan until - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 205
AUTO button, or the air conditioning button to turn the system on when it is off. Manual Operation You may manually adjust the air delivery mode or fan speed Press this button to limit the amount of outside air entering your vehicle. The light on the recirculation button will glow. This is helpful - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 206
will run while in recirculation mode. This is normal and helps to prevent fogging. 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. This direction can be changed by pressing the mode button. The temperature - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 207
conditioner to work its best. On cool, but sunny days while using manual operation of the automatic system, use bi-level to deliver warm air to the floor and cooler air to the instrument panel outlets. To warm or cool the air delivered, turn the temperature knob to the desired setting. In AUTO mode - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 208
air inlets free of ice, snow, or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. < (Rear): Press this button to turn the rear window defogger on or off. An indicator light in the button will come - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 209
is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle's functions. As you will see in the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 210
you have and many other things you will 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. 3-32 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 211
the trip odometer is displayed will reset it. To display the odometer reading with the ignition off, press the reset button. See DIC Operation on page 3-53 for more information. Engine Hour Meter Display The Driver Information Center (DIC) can also display the number of hours the engine has run. To - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 212
The damages would not be covered by your warranty. Do not operate the engine in the solid red area. Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned passenger safety belt reminders. If the driver's belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on. See Passenger Sensing System on page - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 213
is an electrical problem. The system check includes the airbag sensors, the airbag modules, the passenger sensing system (if equipped), the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the airbag system, see Airbag System on page 1-70. This light will come on when you - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 214
the airbag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right rear-facing child restraint in your vehicle) until you have your vehicle serviced. If your vehicle is an extended cab pickup and this ever happens, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 215
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system, your rearview mirror will have a passenger airbag status indicator. Then, after several more seconds, the status indicator will light either ON or OFF, or either the on or off symbol to let you know the status of - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 216
seat unless the airbag is off. Here is why: {CAUTION: If the on indicator comes on when you have a rear-facing child restraint installed in the right front passenger's seat, it means that the passenger sensing system has not turned off the passenger's frontal airbag. A child in a rear-facing child - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 217
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 airbag off indicator and the airbag readiness light ever come on together, it means that - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 218
problem with the generator drive belt, or some other charging system problem. Have it checked right away. Driving with this light displayed could drain your battery. If you must drive a short distance with this light displayed, it helps to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and the air - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 219
working, the other part can still work and stop you. 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 (Manual Transmission) This light is used on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 220
will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. If the light stays on, or comes on when you're driving, your vehicle 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 221
it will be there to warn you if the system is turned off. If the light stays on, or comes on when you are driving, there may be a problem with your Traction Assist System and your vehicle may need service. When this light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 222
fluid. The normal operating range is from 180°F (82°C) to about 200°F (93°C). At approximately 265°F (125°C), the driver information center will display a TRANSMISSION HOT message and the transmission will enter a transmission protection mode. When the transmission enters the protection mode, you may - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 223
to do so. Set the parking brake, place the transmission in PARK GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance reading is above normal. See your dealer for service. The following situations can cause the transmission to operate at higher temperatures: Towing a trailer Hot outside air - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 224
, intake, or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle's emission controls and may cause this light to come on. Modifications to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 225
tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that may have developed. If the Light Is On Steady You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle? If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 226
would be considered not ready for inspection. This can happen if you have recently replaced your battery or if your battery has run down. The diagnostic system is designed to evaluate critical emission control systems during normal driving. This may take several days of routine driving. If you have - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 227
engine oil maintenance may damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always follow the maintenance schedule in this manual for changing engine oil. This light comes on whenever you set your cruise control. The light will go out when the cruise control is turned off. See - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 228
four-wheel-drive indicator will light up when you shift a manual transfer case into four-wheel drive and the front axle engages. Tow/Haul Mode Light This light is displayed when the Tow/Haul mode has been activated. Some delay between shifting and the indicator's lighting is normal. See Four-Wheel - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 229
None of these indicate a problem with the fuel gage. • At the gas station, the fuel pump shuts off before the gage reads full. • It takes Supplement. Low Fuel Warning Light The light next to the fuel gage will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. This light comes on when the fuel tank - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 230
(DIC) The Driver Information Center (DIC) display is located on the instrument panel cluster, below without DIC buttons. If your vehicle has an Allison Transmission® and the shift lever is in the MANUAL MODE (M) position, the DIC will display the current gear range. The DIC will also display the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 231
DIC Operation and Displays The Driver Information Center (DIC) comes on when the ignition is on. After a short delay, the DIC will display the information that was last displayed before the engine was turned off. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 232
If your vehicle has an Allison Transmission® and the vehicle is in the MANUAL MODE (M) position, press the trip information button until SELECTED RANGE: M# range, fuel used, average fuel economy, and the engine oil life system. Fuel Range: Press the fuel information button until RANGE appears on the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 233
to the engine oil life system monitoring the oil life, additional maintenance is recommended in the Maintenance Schedule in this manual. See Engine Oil (Gasoline messages will only make the messages disappear, not correct the problem. The following are the possible messages that can be displayed - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 234
Driving with this problem could drain your battery. Have the electrical system checked by your GM belt is already buckled, this message and chime will not come on. This message is an additional reminder to the Safety Belt Reminder Light in the instrument panel cluster. See Safety Belt Reminder Light - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 235
there is a problem with the generator and battery charging system, this message will appear on the DIC, a chime will sound, and the battery warning light on the instrument panel cluster will come on. Driving with this problem could drain your battery. Turn off all unnecessary accessories. Stop and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 236
ENGINE COOLANT HOT If the cooling system temperature gets hot, this message will appear in the DIC. Turn off the air conditioning. If the message is still PARK (P) for a few minutes, or NEUTRAL with the parking brake set for manual transmissions, to allow the coolant to reach a safe temperature. This - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 237
on the DIC. The battery needs to be replaced in the transmitter. See "Battery Replacement" under Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on page 2-5. Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant is not covered by your warranty. See "Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode" in - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 238
low oil pressure warning appears on the Driver Information Center (DIC), stop the vehicle as soon as possible oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced by your GM dealer. See Engine Oil (Gasoline This message is displayed when the cooling system temperature gets too hot and the engine - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 239
as soon as possible. If your vehicle has vacuum assist power brakes, this message will be displayed on the DIC when there is a problem with the Supplemental Brake Assist system. 3-61 SERVICE AIRBAG If there is a problem with the airbag system, this message will be displayed on the DIC. Have your GM - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 240
will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light and message off. SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM If there is a problem with the brake system, this message will be displayed on the DIC. If this message appears, stop as soon as possible - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 241
the transmission. This could lead to costly repairs that would not be covered by your warranty. Do not drive your vehicle with overheated transmission fluid loading Low transmission fluid level High transmission fluid level Restricted air flow to the radiator and the auxiliary transmission oil cooler A - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 242
preference. All of the customizable options listed may not be available on your vehicle. Only the options available will be displayed on your Driver Information Center (DIC). 3-64 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 243
is shifted into PARK (P). UNLOCK DOORS: 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. Choose one of the available options and press the customization button while it is displayed on the DIC - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 244
Lock Feedback Press the customization button until LOCK FEEDBACK appears in the display. To select your preference for the feedback you receive when locking the vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter, press the select button while LOCK FEEDBACK is displayed on the DIC. Pressing the select - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 245
for 40 seconds, if it is dark enough outside, when you unlock the vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter. PERIMETER LIGHTS: OFF: The perimeter lights will not come on when you unlock the vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter. Choose one of the available options and press the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 246
WARNING: BOTH (default): The headlamps will flash and the horn will chirp when the alarm is active. ALARM WARNING: OFF: There will be no alarm warning on activation. Curb View Press the customization button until CURB VIEW appears in the display. To select your preference for curb view, press the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 247
the customization button while your choice is displayed on the DIC to select it and move on to the next feature. For more information on alarm warning type, see Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-19. The DIC will begin scrolling through the languages in their particular language. English will be in - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 248
on page 4-2. By taking a few moments to read this manual and get familiar with your vehicle's audio system, you can use it with less effort, as it can be added by checking with your dealer. Also, check federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units. If sound equipment can be added, it is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 249
chime signals related to safety belts, parking brake, and other functions of your vehicle operate through the GM radio/entertainment system. If that equipment is replaced or additional equipment is added to your vehicle, the chimes may not work. Make sure that replacement or additional equipment is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 250
go on to the next station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning. Playing the Radio PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off. VOL (Volume): Turn this knob to increase or to decrease the volume. RCL (Recall): Press this knob to switch the display between - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 251
Setting Preset Stations Up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM) can be programmed on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM FM to select FM1, FM2, or AM. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press and hold one of the six numbered - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 252
configured properly for your vehicle and must be returned to your GM dealer for service. LOC (Locked): This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle to your GM dealer for service. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your GM - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 253
broadcasting the selected type of programming • Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies • Display messages from radio stations This system relies upon receiving specific information from these stations and will only work when the information is available. In rare cases - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 254
that includes song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XM™ service. For more information, contact XM™ at www the default. AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, the audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 255
Finding a Station BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, AM, or XM1 or XM2 (if equipped). The display will show the selection. Setting Preset Stations Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM, six XM1 and six XM2 (if equipped)), can be programed on the six numbered pushbuttons, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 256
AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will appear on the display, you will hear a beep, and manual bass and treble settings. The radio will save separate AUTO EQ settings for each preset and source. If the radio is equipped with the Bose® audio system - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 257
. BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. To turn alternate frequency on, The radio may switch to stations with a stronger frequency. To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again for two seconds. AF - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 258
the steps for each pushbutton. If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the message will appear every three seconds. To scroll through the dealer for service. LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle to your GM dealer for service. If any - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 259
seconds. The system is functioning correctly audio system is acquiring service. system is working properly. No song title information is available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly. No Signal Loading XM Acquiring channel audio (after 4 second delay) Channel not in service - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 260
on this channel. The system is working properly. There are no channels available for the selected category. The system is working properly. The is received after having your vehicle serviced, check with your GM dealer. If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the XM™ Radio eight digit - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 261
Playing a CD Insert a CD part way into the slot, label side up. The player will pull be an increase in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is damaged, such as cracked - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 262
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to quickly reverse within a track. Press and hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds to reverse at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release this - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 263
the CD comes out, 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 when reporting the problem. Base Radio Shown, Bose® Similar If your vehicle has the Bose® audio system, your vehicle will have six Bose - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 264
Radio Data System (RDS) The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS features are available for use only on FM stations that broadcast RDS information. With RDS, the radio can do the following: XM™ Satellite Radio Service XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based in the 48 contiguous - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 265
hold the knob until the display flashes. The selected display will now be the default. AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, the audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you drive by increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases. Set the volume - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 266
the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will appear on the display, you will hear a beep, and the display Selecting CUSTOM or changing bass or treble, returns the EQ to the manual bass and treble settings. The radio will save separate AUTO EQ settings for - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 267
adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED will appear on the display, you will hear a beep, and the display level will be adjusted to the middle position. Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 268
. The radio may switch to stations with a stronger frequency. 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) These buttons have factory PTY presets. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 269
call in phone numbers, etc. If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the message will appear every three seconds. To scroll through the message dealer for service. LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle to your GM dealer for service. If - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 270
seconds. The system is functioning correctly audio system is acquiring service. system is working properly. No song title information is available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly. No Signal Loading XM Acquiring channel audio (after 4 second delay) Channel not in service - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 271
on this channel. The system is working properly. There are no channels available for the selected category. The system is working properly. The is received after having your vehicle serviced, check with your GM dealer. If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the XM™ Radio eight digit - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 272
Playing a Cassette Tape The tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. The longer side with the tape visible should face to the right. If you hear nothing or hear a garbled - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 273
3 REV (Reverse): Press this pushbutton to quickly reverse the tape. The radio will play while the tape reverses. Press it again to return to playing speed. The station frequency and REV will appear on the display. Select stations during reverse operation by using TUNE and SEEK. 4 FWD (Forward): - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 274
corrected, contact your GM dealer. If the radio displays an error message, write it down and provide it to your GM dealer when reporting the problem. • The tape is tight and the player cannot turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 275
Playing a CD Insert a CD part way into the slot, label side up. The player will pull be an increase in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is damaged, such as cracked - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 276
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to quickly reverse within a track. Press and hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds to reverse at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release this - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 277
CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons: Listening to a DVD If your vehicle has the Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system and 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 278
broadcasting the selected type of programming • Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies • Display messages from radio stations This system relies upon receiving specific information from these stations and will only work when the information is available. In rare cases - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 279
that includes song title and artist name. A service fee is required in order to receive the XM™ service. For more information, contact XM™ at www the default. AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, the audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 280
Finding a Station BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, AM, or XM1 or XM2 (if equipped). The display will show the selection. Setting Preset Stations Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM, six XM1 and six XM2 (if equipped)), can be programed on the six numbered pushbuttons, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 281
the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker controls are displayed. ALL CENTERED will appear on the display and you will hear a beep. AUTO each preset and source. If the radio is equipped with the Bose® audio system, the equalization settings are either CUSTOM or TALK. Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/ - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 282
Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station (RDS and XM™) To select and find a desired PTY perform the following: 1. Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode. P-TYPE and the last selected PTY will appear on the display. 2. Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 283
The radio may switch to stations with a stronger frequency. 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) These pushbuttons have factory PTY presets. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 284
call in phone numbers, etc. If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the message will appear every three seconds. To scroll through the message dealer for service. LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK® system has locked up. Take the vehicle to your GM dealer for service. If - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 285
seconds. The system is functioning correctly audio system is acquiring service. system is working properly. No song title information is available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly. No Signal Loading XM Acquiring channel audio (after 4 second delay) Channel not in service - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 286
on this channel. The system is working properly. There are no channels available for the selected category. The system is working properly. The is received after having your vehicle serviced, check with your GM dealer. If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the XM™ Radio eight digit - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 287
in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the button. 3. Wait for the indicator light, located to the right of the slot, to turn green. 4. Load a CD. Insert the CD part way into the slot, label side - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 288
the slot, will begin to flash and MULTI LOAD # will appear on the display. 3. Once the light stops flashing and turns green, INSERT CD # will appear on the display, load a CD. Insert the CD part way into the slot, label side up. The player will pull the CD in. Once the CD - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 289
the CD several times before stopping. Do not repeatedly press the CD eject button to eject a CD after you have tried to push it in manually. The player's 25-second eject timer will reset at each press of eject, causing the player to not eject the CD until the 25-second - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 290
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press AUTO EQ to select the equalization setting while playing a CD. The equalization will be stored whenever a CD is played. For more information on AUTO EQ, see "AUTO EQ" listed previously in this section. BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a CD - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 291
4. Press and hold the SONG LIST button to save the track into memory. When SONG LIST is pressed, one beep will be heard immediately. After two seconds of continuously pressing the SONG LIST button, two beeps will sound to confirm the track has been saved. 5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for saving other - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 292
Messages CHECK CD: If this message appears on the display and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons: • It is very , 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 293
current radio source will stop and the DVD sound will come through the speakers. To stop listening to the DVD, will display Parental Control ON and the power indicator light on the DVD player will flash. It will is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or if RAP is active. Before You Drive The RSE system is for rear - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 294
Headphones The RSE system includes two sets of wireless headphones. Each set of headphones has an ON/OFF 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 Replacement" following for - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 295
video and the red and white connectors input right and left audio. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper connection of the auxiliary device. To use the auxiliary inputs on the RSE system, connect an external auxiliary device to the color-coded RCA jacks and turn both the auxiliary - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 296
seat audio system if the RSE system power is on. Refer to Rear Seat Audio (RSA) on page 3-127 for more information. 3-118 Video Screen The video screen is located in the overhead console. To use be turned on when the ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 297
are fully supported by this DVD player. DVD-R and DVD-RW media is supported if formatted as (if equipped) or use XM™ Satellite Radio Service (if equipped), you will hear the audio for Press this button to turn the RSE system on and off. The power indicator light will illuminate when the power is on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 298
disc and the player will automatically start, if the vehicle is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or when RAP is active. If a disc is already in the player, the DVD does not begin to play the main title, refer to the on-screen instructions. z (Set-up Menu): Stopping and Resuming Playback To stop playing a disc, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 299
desired button. Direct sunlight or very bright light may affect the ability of the RSE 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 300
z (Set-up Menu): Press this button to adjust the color, tint, brightness, contrast, display mode, and dynamic range compression. The dynamic range compression feature can be used to reduce loud audio and increase low audio produced by some DVDs. 1 through 0 (Numeric Keypad): The numeric keypad - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 301
q (Return): Press this button to exit the current active menu and return to the previous menu. This button will operate only when a DVD is playing and a menu is active. s (Play/Pause): Press this button to start play of a DVD or CD. Press this button while a DVD or CD is playing to pause it. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 302
period of time, remove the batteries and keep them in a cool, dry place. Problem No power. Recommended Action The ignition might not be in on or accessory. The parental control button might have been turned on. The power indicator light will flash. Disc will not play. The system might be off. The - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 303
between the remote control and the transmitter window. Check the batteries to make sure they are not dead or installed incorrectly. The parental control button might have been turned on. The power indicator light will flash. Problem After stopping the player, I push Play but sometimes the DVD - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 304
Problem Recommended Action Sometimes the wireless Check for obstructions, headphone audio cuts out low batteries, reception or buzzes. range, and interference from cellular telephone towers or by using your cellular telephone in the vehicle. Check that the headphones are facing - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 305
talkies. It may be necessary to turn off the DVD player when operating one of these devices in or near the vehicle. * Excludes the OnStar® System. Rear Seat Audio (RSA) This feature allows rear seat passengers to listen to any of the sources: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, or DVDs. However, the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 306
seat passengers are listening to a CD. Press this button to turn the system on or off. The rear speakers will be muted when the power is turned on unless your vehicle is equipped with the Bose® audio system. P (Power): PROG (Program): Press this button to go to the next preset - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 307
. When the radio and vehicle are turned off, the blinking red light indicates that THEFTLOCK® is armed. With THEFTLOCK® activated, the radio will press this button to interact with the OnStar system. See the OnStar® System on page 2-73 in this manual for more information. If your vehicle does not - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 308
normal radio reception if items such as cellphone chargers, vehicle convenience accessories, and external electronic devices are plugged into the accessory power outlet. If there is interference or static, unplug the item from the accessory power outlet. AM The range for most AM stations is greater - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 309
Service XM™ Satellite Radio Service , use a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner -scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head can be used. This type of cleaning cassette - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 310
the tape player is serviced. Do not touch the center to the edge. Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, replace - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 311
roof of your vehicle can interfere with the performance of the XM™ system. Make sure the XM™ Satellite Radio antenna is not obstructed. Chime Level Adjustment The radio is used to adjust Removing the radio and not replacing it with a factory radio or chime module will disable vehicle chimes. 3-133 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 312
✍ NOTES 3-134 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 313
48 Adding a Snow Plow or Similar Equipment ...4-54 Truck-Camper Loading Information ...4-59 Pickup Conversion to Chassis Cab ...4-61 Braking ...4-5 Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ...4-6 Braking in Emergencies ...4-8 Traction Assist System (TAS) ...4-8 Manual Selectable Ride ...4-10 Locking Rear Axle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 314
The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. See Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone on page 1-11. {CAUTION: Defensive driving really means "Be ready for anything." On city streets, rural roads, or - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 315
needs to drive a vehicle: The obvious way to eliminate the leading highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people Vision Attentiveness • The amount of alcohol consumed • The drinker's body weight • The amount of food that is consumed before and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 316
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! 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 317
System (TAS) on page 4-8. Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle's performance. See Accessories ride with a driver who has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if you are with a group, designate a driver who will not drink. Braking See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-41. Braking - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 318
with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on. See Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light on page 3-42. Along with ABS, your vehicle has a Dynamic Rear Proportioning (DRP) system. If there is a DRP problem, both the brake and ABS warning lights will come on accompanied by a 10 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 319
come on each time the ignition is turned on until the problem is repaired. See your dealer for service. The anti-lock system can change the brake jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here is what happens with ABS: A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 320
enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Traction Assist System (TAS) Your vehicle may have a Traction Assist System (TAS) that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the rear - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 321
will go off and TAS will turn on again. This is normal. • A Traction Assist System, Anti-Lock Brake System or engine-related problem has been detected and the vehicle needs service. The traction off light will come on under the following conditions: • If the vehicle has been driven with the TAS - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 322
on the center of the instrument panel near the radio. If you used the button to turn the system off, the traction off light will come on and stay on. You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing the button again. The traction off light should go off. Adding non-GM accessories can - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 323
the button should be pressed in with the indicator light lit. This switch position indicates FIRM levels of ride control or damping. The following guide can also be used to help determine the best setting. NORMAL: The indicator light will not be lit when the system is in this setting. Use for normal - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 324
. You can lose control. See Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 4-8. What should you do accessories can affect your vehicle's performance. See Accessories and Modifications on page 5-4. Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 325
See Braking on page 4-5. It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left is a good reason to practice defensive driving at all times and wear safety belts properly. If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 326
a reasonable distance. • When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and do not ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually indicates it is all right to pass, providing the road ahead is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 327
us review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems - brakes, steering, and acceleration - do not have enough friction where the tires do not give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. • Try not to pass more than one - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 328
System (TAS) on page 4-8. If you do not have this system, or if the system braking, including engine braking Brake System (ABS) helps avoid only the braking skid. 4-16 Off-Road Driving This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel drive. Also, see Braking road system behind. read this guide - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 329
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: 2. While continuing to pull downward on the push-pin, squeeze and turn - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 330
engine and may allow things like fog lamps or tow hooks on the front of your vehicle to be damaged. Always be sure to replace the front bumper air dam when you are finished off-road driving. 2. Push the flat end of the push-pin toward the retainer until it locks into place - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 331
service work done. Check to make sure all underbody shields, if equipped, are properly attached. Be sure you read all the information about your four-wheel-drive vehicle in this manual the roof raise the vehicle's center of gravity, making it oor and forward of the rear axle. Put heavier items as far - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 332
area. Know the terrain and plan your route. You are much less likely to get a winch? If so, be sure to read the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch can be ground). • Always carry a litter bag - make sure all refuse is your arms, hands, feet, and body, you will need to respond to vibrations - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 333
bounce when you drive over obstacles. • You will need more distance for braking, especially since you are on an unpaved surface. {CAUTION: When you driving on or off the road, you and your passengers should wear safety belts. • Is the path ahead clear? • Will the surface texture change abruptly - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 334
and highways. There are no road signs, posted speed limits, or signal lights. You have to use your own good judgment about what is safe and could have a serious - or even fatal - accident if you drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. See Drunken Driving on page 4-3. Driving on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 335
or sliding. • Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible. If the path twists and turns, you might want to find another route. {CAUTION: Turning or driving across steep hills can be dangerous. You could lose traction, slide sideways, and possibly roll over. You could be seriously injured - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 336
: • Use your headlamps even during the day. They make you more visible to oncoming traffic. • Push the brake pedal to stop the vehicle and keep it from rolling backwards. Also, apply the parking brake. {CAUTION: Driving to the top (crest) of a hill at full speed can cause an accident. There could - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 337
still applied, shift the transmission to PARK (P), or shift to NEUTRAL if your vehicle has a manual transmission, and restart the engine. Then, shift to REVERSE (R), release the parking brake, and slowly back down the hill as straight as possible in REVERSE (R). Here are some things you must not - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 338
NEUTRAL. Leave the transfer case in the Two-Wheel High, Four-Wheel High or Four-Wheel Low position. A: Set the parking brake, put the transmission in PARK (P), or the manual transmission in FIRST (1), and turn off the engine. Leave the vehicle and go get some help. Exit on the uphill side and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 339
straight down, and use a low gear. This way, engine drag can help the brakes and they will not have to do all the work. Descend slowly, keeping your the clutch pedal pressed down with a manual transmission. This is called "free-wheeling." The brakes will have to do all the work and could overheat - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 340
uphill. But if it happens going downhill, here is what to do. 1. Stop your vehicle by applying the regular brakes. Apply the parking brake. 2. Shift to PARK (P), or to NEUTRAL with the manual transmission, and, while still braking, restart the engine. 3. Shift back to a low gear, release the parking - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 341
• Surface conditions can be a problem when you drive across a hill. Loose gravel, muddy spots, or even wet grass can cause your tires to slip sideways, downhill. injured or killed. If you have any doubt about the steepness of the incline, do not drive across it. Find another route instead. 4-29 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 342
mud, snow, or sand, your wheels will not get good traction. You cannot accelerate as quickly, turning is more difficult, and you will need longer braking distances. It is best to use a low gear when you are in mud - the deeper the mud, the lower the gear. In really deep mud - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 343
, and braking. Drive at cover the wheel hubs, axles, or exhaust pipe, do not try it - you probably will not get through. Also, water that deep can damage the axle and other vehicle parts. If the water is not too deep, drive slowly through it. At faster speeds, water splashes on the ignition system - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 344
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 due to off-road use. Refer to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 345
in 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 at to see in dim light - and are not even aware of it. Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 346
Replace problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you cannot, try to slow down before you hit them. 4-34 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 347
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. {CAUTION: Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. If you try to drive through flowing water, as you might at a low water - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 348
your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-country trip. • Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities 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. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 349
Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways - also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes, or superhighways - are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 350
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 to a safe, trouble-free trip. Is route? Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system? • Maps: Do you - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 351
. 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. 4-39 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 352
off-road. • Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system, and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. {CAUTION: If you do not shift down, your brakes could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 353
not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You mountains. Do not swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you may see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or no-passing zones - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 354
flashlight, a red cloth, and reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet, or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle. Driving on Snow or Ice Most - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 355
and loose gravel, to help maintain vehicle motion at lower speeds. See Traction Assist System (TAS) on page 4-8. If you do not have TAS, accelerate gently. Try not 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 356
stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) on page 4-6. • 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 patches may appear - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 357
accelerator slightly. This uses less 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 your headlamps. Let the fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes. 4-45 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 358
If your vehicle has the traction assist system, you should turn it off by pressing a forward gear, or with a manual transmission, between FIRST (1) or SECOND you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when injured. And, the transmission or other parts of the vehicle can overheat. That could - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 359
the chain or cable snapping back. Notice: Never use recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged and it would not be covered by warranty. Your vehicle may have recovery hooks at the front of the vehicle. You may need to use them if you are stuck off - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 360
: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (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 and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 361
) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axles. See "Certification weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3. Subtract the combined weight of be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 362
Example 2 Item A B C Description Total Vehicle Capacity Weight 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for Example 2 = Subtract Occupant Weight 750 lbs (136 kg) 150 lbs (68 kg) × 5 = Available Cargo Weight = 250 lbs (113 kg) Item A B C Example 3 Description Total Vehicle Capacity Weight 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for Example 3 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 363
your load equally on both sides of the centerline. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle. A vehicle specific Certification/Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver's door. The label shows the size of your vehicle's original - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 364
(GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change carried in the bed of your truck could shift forward and come into the passenger area, injuring you and others. If you put things in the bed of your truck, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 365
need to. There is also important loading information for off-road driving in this manual. See "Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving" under Off-Road Driving on page prevent it from shifting. The load's center of gravity should be positioned in a zone over the rear axle. The zone is located in the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 366
covered by your warranty. Do not overload your vehicle. Remember not to exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of the front or rear axle mounted add-on equipment is recommended. See your dealer. Ladder racks are not recommended for 1500 crew cab models with 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) pick-up box length. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 367
you have added to your vehicle, like a tool box or truck cap. • Follow the snow plow manufacturer's recommendations regarding rear ballast. Rear front and rear weight distribution ratio, even though the actual weight at the front axle may be less than the front axle rating. • The total weight - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 368
to calculate the amount of weight any front accessory, such as a snow plow, is adding to the front axle, use the following formula: (W x (A + W.B.)) /W.B.= Weight the accessory is adding to the front axle. Where: W = Weight of added accessory A = Distance that the accessory is in front of the front - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 369
= (700 x (4 + 10))/10 = 980 lbs (445 kg) So, if your truck's front axle reserve capacity is more than 980 lbs (445 kg), you could add the snow plow without exceeding the front a proper front and rear weight distribution ratio is necessary to provide proper braking performance. Q: What if I want to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 370
your vehicle before reaching your GVWR. Keep in mind that reserve capacity numbers are intended as a guide when selecting the amount of equipment or cargo your truck can carry. If you are unsure of Lamp on page 3-18 for switch location. A. Body Side Inner Panel B. Emergency Roof Lamp Harness 4-58 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 371
box. This label will tell you if your vehicle can carry a slide-in camper, how much of a load your vehicle can carry, and how to correctly The recommended location for the cargo center of gravity is at point C for the CWR. It is the point where the mass of a body is concentrated and, if suspended at - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 372
Here is an example of proper truck and camper match: You must weigh any accessories or other equipment that you add to your vehicle. Then, subtract this extra weight from the CWR. This extra weight may shorten the center of gravity zone of your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. If your - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 373
axle loads. Individual axle loads should not exceed either of the GAWRs. The total of the front and rear axle camper, check the manufacturer's instructions. If you want more information on curb weights, cargo weights, Cargo Weight Rating and the correct center body should be installed by a body - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 374
• What's the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure you read the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. • How far will you tow? Some ground, the drivetrain components could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not tow your vehicle with all four wheels on - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 375
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. 5. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL. See Four - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 376
the ground, the transmission could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Never tow your vehicle with the rear wheels on PARK (P), or a manual transmission to FIRST (1). 3. Turn the engine off, but leave the ignition on. 4. Firmly set the parking brake. 5. Securely attach the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 377
rear: 1. Drive the vehicle onto the dolly. 2. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-52 3. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission in FIRST (1). 4. Follow the dolly manufacturer's instructions to attach and secure the vehicle being towed to the dolly and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 378
rear: 1. Drive the vehicle onto the dolly. 2. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-52 3. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission in FIRST (1). 4. Follow the dolly manufacturer's instructions to attach and secure the vehicle being towed to the dolly and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 379
on page 2-21 Notice: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this part, and see your dealer for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle. To identify the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 380
the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. • Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that If you have a manual transmission and you are towing a trailer, it's better not to use the highest gear. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 3-50. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 381
Operating the vehicle in Tow/Haul when lightly loaded or with no trailer at all will not ) trailer rating, the handling/trailering suspension is required on C-1500 models and the handling/trailering or off-road suspension is required on K-1500 models. Use one of the following charts to determine how - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 382
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-1500 Regular Cab Short Box (2WD)* 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.23 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 309 kg) 4300 V6 (Manual) 3.23 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) 8,500 lbs (3 855 kg) 3.23 6,400 lbs (2 903 kg) 11,000 lbs (4 994 kg) 4800 V8 (Auto) 3.73 7,400 lbs (3 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 383
or gooseneck trailering is neither designed nor intended for this vehicle Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (2WD)* 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.23 4,800 lbs (2 177 kg) 9,500 lbs (4 313 kg) 4300 V6 (Manual) 3.23 3,800 lbs (1 724 kg) 8,500 lbs (3 859 kg) 3.23 6,200 lbs - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 384
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) 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.73 5,100 lbs (2 313 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 540 kg) 4300 V6 (Manual) 3.73 4,100 lbs (1 860 kg) 9,000 lbs (4 086 kg) 3.42 7,100 lbs (3 221 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 385
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight K-1500 Extended Cab Short Box (4WD)* 3.42 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 4800 V8 (Auto) 3.73 6,700 lbs (3 039 kg) 4.10 7,700 lbs (3 493 kg)** 3.42 4,700 lbs (2 132 kg) 4800 V8 (Manual) 3.73 4,700 lbs (2 132 kg) 4.10 5,700 lbs (2 585 kg) 3.42 7,700 lbs (3 493 kg)** - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 386
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-1500 Regular Cab Long Box (4WD)* 4300 V6 (Auto) 3.73 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 4300 V6 (Manual) 3.73 4, kg) 3.42 4,900 lbs (2 223 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 4800 V8 (Manual) 3.73 4,900 lbs (2 223 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 4.10 5,900 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 387
Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-1500 Extended Cab Long Box (4WD)* 3.42 6,500 lbs (2 948 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 4800 V8 3.73 6,500 lbs (2 948 kg) 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 4.10 7,500 lbs (3 402 kg) 13,000 lbs (5 897 kg) 3.42 4,500 lbs (2 041 kg) 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) 4800 V8 (Manual - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 388
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-2500 Extended Cab Short Box HD (2WD)* 6000 V8 or gooseneck GCWR for 6.6L V8 Diesel 2500 HD series models is 23,200 lbs (10 523 kg). Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (2WD)* 6000 V8 4.10 10,100 lbs (4 581 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 389
-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,000 lbs (1 361 kg) maximum. Vehicle* K-1500 HD (4WD)* 6000 V8 Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR (7 257 kg) (9 072 kg) (9 979 kg) (9 979 kg) 3.73 7,900 lbs (3 583 kg) 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) 4.10 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 390
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-2500 Extended Cab Short Box HD (4WD)* 6000 V8 or gooseneck GCWR for 6.6L V8 Diesel 2500 HD series models is 23,200 lbs (10 523 kg). Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-2500 Extended Cab Long Box HD (4WD)* 6000 V8 4.10 9,900 lbs (4 490 kg - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 391
25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,000 lbs (1 361 kg) maximum. Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR C-3500 Extended Cab (2WD) 6000 V8 4.10 9,700 lbs (4 4.10 12,000 lbs (5 543 kg)** 22,000 lbs (9 979 kg) 6.6L V8 Diesel (Manual) 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 543 kg)** 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg) 6.6L V8 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 392
Vehicle* Axle Ratio K-3500 Regular Cab (4WD) 6000 V8 Dual Rear 4.10 Wheel 6000 V8 Single Rear 4.10 Wheel 8100 V8 Dual Rear 4.10 Wheel 8100 V8 Single Rear 4.10 Wheel 6.6L V8 Dual Rear 3.73 Wheel (Auto) 6.6L V8 Dual Rear 3.73 Wheel (Manual) 6.6L V8 Single Rear 3.73 Wheel Maximum Trailer Weight - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 393
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-3500 Extended Cab (4WD)* 6000 V8 Dual Rear 4.10 9,400 lbs (4 kg) Wheel 6.6L V8 Diesel Dual 3.73 16,300 lbs (7 394 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg) Rear Wheel (Manual) 6.6L V8 Diesel Dual 3.73 16,300 lbs (7 394 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg) Rear Wheel (Auto) - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 394
Vehicle* Axle Ratio Maximum Trailer Weight GCWR K-3500 Crew Cab (4WD)* 6000 V8 Dual Rear 4.10 9, 6.6L V8 Diesel Dual 3.73 12,000 lbs (5 443 kg) 23,500 lbs (10 659 kg) Rear Wheel (Manual) *Fifth-wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be 15 percent to 25 percent of trailer weight up to 3,500 lbs (1 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 395
total loaded trailer weight, up to a maximum of 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for the 1500 series and up to a maximum of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) for the 2500, 2500 vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. If you have a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 396
allowable tongue weight for your vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle. 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 separately, to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 397
vehicle, or the GAWR, including the weight of the trailer tongue. If you use a weight distributing hitch, make sure you don't go over the rear axle limit before you apply the weight distribution spring bars. Weight is still below 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) and you may think that you should subtract - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 398
is ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper. If you will be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will fifth-wheel trailer with a vehicle equipped with the SS trim package. A: Body to Ground Distance B: Front of Vehicle When using a weight-distributing hitch, the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 399
bed so that its centerline is over or slightly in front of the rear axle support. hitch. Instructions about bumper. If you are towing a trailer up to your vehicle's trailer rating limit you may attach the safety chains to the attaching point on the hitch platform. If you are towing with an aftermarket - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 400
- and they must be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Your trailer brake system can tap into the vehicle's hydraulic brake system only if: Driving with a Trailer {CAUTION: If you have a rear - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 401
is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working. While towing a trailer or when exposed to long periods of sunshine, the floor of the truck bed may become very warm. Avoid putting items in the truck bed that might be affected by high ambient temperatures. Following Distance - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 402
very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be tow/haul mode if the transmission shifts too often. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 3-50. If you have a 5-speed manual transmission and you are towing a trailer, it's better not to use - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 403
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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 404
or hauling a slide-in camper. • Start your engine • Shift into a gear • Release the parking brake 2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 405
* Red: Battery Feed** Dark Blue: Trailer Brake * The Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) wire is tied next to the trailer wiring harness for use with a trailer, slide-in camper or cap. **If you are charging a remote (non-vehicle) battery, turn on the headlamps to boost the vehicle system voltage - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 406
wiring harness which connects to the camper. The eight-wire harness contains the following camper/trailer circuits: Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal Dark Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal Brown: Taillamps White: Ground Light Green: Back-up Lamps Light Blue: Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) If your - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 407
a proper replacement from your dealer. 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. 4-95 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 408
the auxiliary battery. Be sure to follow the proper installation instructions that are included with any electrical equipment that you install. You'll get the best performance if you spread out the weight of your load the right way, and if you choose the correct hitch and trailer brakes. For more - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 409
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. brake pedal (and off the clutch on vehicles equipped with a manual transmission). 4. Select the desired engine speed for PTO operation. Read - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 410
) do the following: 1. Engage the PTO. 2. Vehicle speed must be greater than 5 mph. 3. 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 411
installed PTO system and body equipment. When the PTO switch is turned on, the engine is limited to 2,200 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 412
✍ NOTES 4-100 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 413
45 Windshield Washer Fluid ...5-46 Brakes ...5-47 Battery ...5-51 Jump Starting ...5-52 Rear Axle ...5-58 Four-Wheel Drive ...5-59 Front Axle ...5-60 Noise Control System ...5-62 Tampering with Noise Control System Prohibited ...5-62 Service ...5-4 Accessories and Modifications ...5-4 California - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 414
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces ...5-115 Care of Safety Belts ...5-116 Weatherstrips ...5-116 Washing Your Vehicle ...5-116 Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses ...5-117 Finish Care ...5-117 Bulb Replacement ...5-63 Halogen Bulbs ...5-63 Headlamps ...5-63 Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 415
Service and Appearance Care Electrical System ...5-123 Add-On Electrical Equipment ...5-123 Windshield Wiper Fuses ...5-123 Power Windows and Other Power Options ...5-123 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ...5-123 Instrument Panel Fuse Block ...5-124 Center Service Parts Identification Label ...5-122 5-3 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 416
things as, braking, stability, ride and handling, emissions systems, aerodynamics, durability, and electronic systems like antilock brakes, traction control and stability control. Some of these accessories may even cause malfunction or damage not covered by warranty. GM Accessories are designed to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 417
: You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. • Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts, and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. • Be sure to use the proper - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 418
or higher as soon as possible. If you are using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. Gasoline Specifications At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM specification D 4814 in the United States or CAN/CGSB-3.5 in Canada. Some gasolines may contain - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 419
covered by your warranty. Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing your emission control system intake valves clean, or if your vehicle experiences problems - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 420
can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage the plastic and rubber parts. That damage would not be covered under your warranty. other crops. Many service stations will not have an 85% ethanol fuel (E85) pump available. The U. S. Department of Energy has an alternative fuels website ( - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 421
for your climate according to ASTM specification D 5798. If you have trouble starting on E85, it may be because your E85 fuel is not properly formulated It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage the plastic and rubber parts. That damage would not be covered under your warranty. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 422
fire can cause bad injuries. 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 . 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 423
replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks. It will require more effort to turn the fuel cap on the last turn as you tighten it. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap , in a vehicle's trunk, pickup bed, or on any surface other than - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 424
Checking Things Under the Hood {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 drop or spill things that - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 425
left of the steering wheel. 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release located near the center of the grille. 3. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then pull down the hood and close it firmly. 5-13 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 426
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the 4.3L V6 engine, here is what you will see: 5-14 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 427
(Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant on page 5-35 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap on page 5-37. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 428
When you open the hood on the 5.3L V8 engine (4.8L and 6.0L V8 engines similar), here is what you will see: 5-16 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 429
(Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant on page 5-35 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap on page 5-37. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 430
When you open the hood on the 8.1L V8 engine, here is what you will see: 5-18 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 431
(Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant on page 5-35 and Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap on page 5-37. C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped). See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 432
Diesel Engine Supplement. If the CHECK OIL LEVEL light appears on the instrument cluster (except vehicles equipped right away. For more information, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-52. You should check get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 433
shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-14 for the location of the engine oil fill cap. All Except 8.1L Engine 8.1L Engine If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, you will need to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 434
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use • SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. These 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 should also have the starburst - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 435
oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your dealer has 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 and keep it at the proper - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 436
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. 5-24 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 437
. When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter If your vehicle is equipped with an air filter restriction indicator, it lets you know when the engine air cleaner/ filter needs to be replaced. On vehicles with a restriction indicator, you should inspect the air filter restriction indicator at every - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 438
How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Vehicles With an Air Filter Restriction Indicator Locate the air filter restriction indicator on the engine air cleaner/filter cover. When the indicator turns black or is in the red/orange "change" zone, replace the filter and reset the indicator. See the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 439
to dislodge as little dirt as possible. 4. Clean the engine air cleaner/filter sealing surfaces and the housing. 5. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter. 6. Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws. 7. Reset the air filter restriction indicator, if equipped, by pressing the top button - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 440
listed in Additional Required Services (Gasoline Engine) on instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine part or exhaust system parts - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 441
engine running. 2. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). 3. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever flip the handle down to lock the dipstick in place. Consistency of Readings See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-14 for more information on location. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 442
operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. • After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as • described under "How to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 443
your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine part or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission fluid. Wait at least 30 minutes - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 444
back in all the way. Consistency of Readings Always check the fluid level at least twice using the procedures described previously. Consistency (repeatable transmission breather to be sure it is clean and unclogged. If readings are still inconsistent, contact your dealer. Hot Check Procedure The - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 445
service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine part or exhaust system parts - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 446
fingers on the transmission case. Then, follow these steps: How to Add Manual Transmission Fluid Here is how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule the system. Adding fluid will not correct a leak. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 447
Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem temperature. • Let the warning lights and gages work as they service after each 25,000 miles not be covered by your . See Owner Checks and Services on page 6-11 and Recommended - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 448
's cooling system, you could damage your vehicle. Use only the proper mixture of the engine coolant listed in this manual for the cooling system. See not be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. 5-36 Checking - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 449
and the LOW COOLANT LEVEL message comes on and stays on, it POWER message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) on the instrument panel. parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. When replacing the pressure cap - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 450
vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. See Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode (V8 Engines If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine The ENGINE COOLANT HOT message, along with a low coolant condition, can indicate a serious problem. If you get an - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 451
a minute or so: 1. If your air conditioner is on, turn it off. 2. for about 10 minutes. If the warning does not come back on, you can drive normally. If the may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away. Overheated system. See Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 5-20. 5-39 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 452
Cooling System When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is what you will see: All Other Engines A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap C. Engine Cooling Fan 8.1L V8 Engines A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap C. Engine Cooling Fan {CAUTION: An - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 453
have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the cooling system. {CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do be running. If it is not, your vehicle needs service. Turn off the engine. 5-41 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 454
if you turn the coolant surge tank pressure cap - even a little - they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and coolant surge tank pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 455
contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. 1. 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. Turn the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 456
the proper mixture, to the FULL COLD mark. 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator the level reaches the FULL COLD mark. 5. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the pressure cap is hand-tight and fully seated. 5-44 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 457
, and/or high outside temperatures, or if you are operating your air conditioning system, the fans change to high speed and you may hear an increase in 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. 5-45 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 458
cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick. The level should be at the FULL COLD mark. If necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up to the mark. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 459
When using concentrated washer fluid, 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 460
necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. Checking Brake Fluid 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. {CAUTION - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 461
the reservoir. Notice: • Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced. Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 462
always be replaced as complete axle sets. {CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes will not work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced. Notice: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 463
on page 5-14 for battery location. Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 464
you are not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down. Jump Starting If your vehicle's battery (or batteries) has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 465
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. Notice: If the other vehicle's system is not a 12-volt - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 466
the battery. The remote positive (+) terminal is located behind a red plastic cover, if equipped, near the engine accessory drive need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You do not need to add water to the battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 467
has one. Negative (−) will go to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 9. Now connect the black negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal of the good battery - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 468
cable does not 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 may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 469
(+) cable from the other vehicle. 5. Return the remote positive (+) terminal cover, if equipped, 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 470
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. All axle axle assembly must be supported to get a true reading. How to Check Lubricant 1500 Series Shown, 2500 Series Similar To get an accurate reading, - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 471
Engine) on page 6-14. Four-Wheel Drive Lubricant checks in this section also apply to these vehicles. There are two additional systems that need lubrication. Manual Transfer Case Transfer Case When to Check Lubricant It is not necessary to regularly check transfer case fluid unless you suspect - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 472
Lubricants (Gasoline Engine) on page 6-14. Front Axle When to Check Lubricant Automatic Transfer Case To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. is not necessary to regularly check front axle fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 473
Lubricant If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, located on the front axle, you may need to add some lubricant: • When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to (Gasoline Engine) on page 6-14. To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface. 5-61 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 474
• Removal of fan clutch (if equipped) or rendering clutch inoperative. • Removal of the fan shroud (if equipped). Air Intake: • Removal of the air cleaner silencer. • Modification of the air cleaner. Exhaust: • Removal of the muffler and/or resonator. • Removal of the exhaust pipes and exhaust pipe - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 475
changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer. Headlamps To replace a headlamp bulb, do the following: 1. Open the hood. See Hood scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. 2. Remove the two pins on the top - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 476
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Daytime Running Lamps A. Low-Beam Headlamp B. High-Beam Headlamp 3. Pull the headlamp assembly out. 4. Unplug the electrical connector. 5. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise and remove it from the headlamp assembly. 6. Install the new bulb into the assembly and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 477
To replace a front turn signal, sidemarker or DRL bulb, do the following: 1. Open the hood. See Hood Release on page 5-13 for more information. 2. Remove the headlamp - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 478
the following: 1. Remove the two screws and lift off the lens. To replace a center roof marker lamp bulb, do the following: 2. Install a new bulb into the socket and turn clockwise until it locks into place. 1. Remove the six screws from the center roof marker lamp assembly. 2. Turn the old bulb - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 479
High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) and Cargo Lamp To replace one of these bulbs, do the following: A. Cargo Lamp B. Center High-Mounted Stoplamp Bulb 1. Remove the screws and lift off the lamp assembly. 2. Remove the back plate from the assembly by pressing the release tabs. 3. Remove the CHMSL bulb - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 480
the two rear lamp assembly screws near the tailgate latch and pull out the lamp assembly. Pickup Box Identification and Fender Marker Lamps To replace a pickup box identification or fender marker lamp bulb, do the following: 1. Remove the screws and lamp assembly. 2. Unplug the lamp assembly harness - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 481
3. Determine which of the following taillamp assembly applies to your vehicle. A. Stoplamp/Taillamp B. Turn Signal C. Back-up Lamp A. B. C. D. Stoplamp/Taillamp Turn Signal Lamp Back-up Lamp Sidemarker Lamp 4. Press the release tab, if equipped, and turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 482
Taillamp/Stoplamp C. Back-up Lamp Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamp Back-up Lamp Back-up Lamp* Cargo Lamp and Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) 3157 1156 1157 To replace one of these bulbs, do the following: 1. Peel the rubber seal away from the lens using your hands. 2. Lift the lens off the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 483
information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, see Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts (Gasoline into place. To replace the windshield wiper blade assembly do the following: 1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield. 5-71 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 484
service, see your GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer's booklet included with your vehicle's Owner's Manual your tires have been damaged, replace them. {CAUTION: Poorly maintained much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 485
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 a particular tire's width, height, aspect ratio, construction type and service description. See the "Tire Size" illustration later in this section - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 486
only one side may have the date of manufacture. Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire (A) Tire Size: The tire tire's width, height, aspect ratio, construction type and service description. See the "Tire Size can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load when used as a single. For - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 487
tire size aspect ratio is 75, as shown in item C of the light truck (LT- belted-bias ply construction. (E) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches. Passenger (P-Metric) Tire Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire (A) Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: The United States version of a metric tire sizing system - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 488
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's height to its width. Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 489
Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure. Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles. 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 490
grip provided. Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road. Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands Grading Standards): A tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for an individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 491
center pillar (B-pillar), below the driver's door lock post (striker). This label lists your vehicle's original equipment tires and their recommended cold tire inflation pressures. The recommended cold tire inflation pressure, shown on the label, is the minimum amount of air pressure needed to support - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 492
you reach the recommended amount. If you overfill the tire, release 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 on the valve stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 493
possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 5-83 and Wheel Replacement on page 5-87 for more information. Make sure the spare tire is stored securely. Push, pull, and then try to rotate or turn the tire - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 494
If your vehicle has dual rear wheels and the tread design for the front tires is different from the dual rear tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here when rotating your tires. If your vehicle has dual rear wheels and the tread design for your front tires is the same as your rear - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 495
commercial truck tires may not have treadwear indicators. {CAUTION: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 496
Criteria Specification (TPC spec) system rating. If you need replacement tires, GM strongly recommends that you your vehicle, including brake system performance, ride and handling, traction of different sizes, brands or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 497
, this may affect the way your vehicle performs, including its braking, ride and handling characteristics, stability and resistance to rollover. Additionally, if your vehicle has electronic systems such as, antilock brakes; traction control; and electronic stability control, the performance of these - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 498
service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate. Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A The following information relates to the system system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim braking traction - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 499
any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your dealer if any of these conditions - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 500
one it replaces. If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts. This replacement. Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 501
of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension or other vehicle parts. The area damaged by the tire chains 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 502
driving, especially if you maintain your vehicle's tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it is much more likely can still steer. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible. {CAUTION: Lifting a vehicle and getting under part shows how to use the jacking equipment to change a flat tire - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 503
from moving: 1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put an automatic transmission shift lever in PARK (P), or shift a manual transmission to FIRST (1) or REVERSE your vehicle has a flat tire, use the following example as a guide to assist you in the placement of the wheel blocks. The following - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 504
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools Regular Cab and Crew Cab (Except 1500 Crew Cab) 1500 Crew Cab A. Knob B. Retaining Hook C. Wheel Blocks D. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks E. Jack A. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks B. Wheel Blocks C. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut D. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 505
Extended Cab A. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks B. Wheel Blocks C. Retaining Hook D. Jack E. Knob F. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut G. Tool Kit and Jack Tools Extended Cab Short Box A. Wing Nut Retaining Wheel Blocks B. Wheel Blocks C. Jack D. Retaining Hook E. Knob F. Retaining Bracket and Wing - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 506
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, nut counterclockwise. 4. Remove the wing nut used to retain the storage bag and tools by turning it counterclockwise. You will use the jack handle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 507
lock cover on the bumper and use the ignition key to remove the lock, if equipped with a spare tire lock (J). 3. Insert the hoist end (open end) (F) of the extension through the hole (G) in the rear bumper. 2. engaged causing the tire not to lower. See Secondary Latch System on page 5-105. 5-95 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 508
hoist cable towards you to assist in reaching the spare tire. Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire Use the following pictures and instructions to remove the flat tire and raise the vehicle. 6. Tilt the retainer at the end of the cable when the tire has been lowered, so - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 509
turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. If the vehicle has a center cap with wheel nut caps, the wheel nut caps are designed to stay with the center cap after they are loosened. Remove the entire center cap. If the wheel has a smooth center cap, place the chisel end of the wheel wrench in the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 510
If the flat tire is on the front of the vehicle (two-wheel-drive 1500 Series vehicles), position the jack under the bracket attached to the vehicle's frame, the flat tire is on the rear, position the jack under the rear axle between the spring anchor and the shock absorber bracket. 2. Use the wheel - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 511
the 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 damage the , be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle. Front Position - 2WD - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 512
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. 5. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the vehicle. Raise the vehicle far - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 513
bolts, mounting surfaces, and spare wheel. {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 and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 514
8. Install the spare tire. {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 serious accident. 9. Put the wheel nuts back on with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 515
Front Position - 2WD 1500 Series Rear Position 11. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the vehicle. Lower the jack completely. 5-103 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 516
come loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake center cap, or bolt-on hub cap, depending on what your vehicle is equipped with. For center caps, place the cap - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 517
underbody-mounted tire hoist assembly equipped with a secondary latch system. It is designed to stop the spare tire from 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 instructions listed - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 518
jack handle, extension, and wheel wrench to the jack and place it (with the wheel blocks) under the vehicle towards the front of the rear bumper. 5-106 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 519
remove the jack from underneath the vehicle. 9. Position the center lift point of the jack under the center of the spare tire. 10. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the into the hoist shaft hole in the bumper and turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare the rest of the way. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 520
inspected as soon as you can. You will not be able to store a spare or flat tire using the hoist assembly until it has been replaced. To continue changing the flat tire, see Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire on page 5-96. 5-108 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 521
Store the tire under the rear of the vehicle in the spare tire carrier. Use the following art and text to assist you: 1. Put the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem pointed down, and to the rear. 2. Tilt the retainer downward and through the wheel opening. Make sure - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 522
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 vehicle by turning the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 523
To store the jack and jack tools, do the following: 1. Put the tools (D) in the tool bag (E) and place them in the retaining bracket (C). 2. Tighten down the wing nut (C). 3. Assemble the wheel blocks (B) and jack (G) together with the wing nut (A) and retaining - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 524
your vehicle, do not drive in four-wheel drive until you can have your flat tire repaired and/or replaced. You could damage your vehicle, and the repair costs would not be covered by your warranty. Never use four-wheel drive when the different size spare tire is installed on your vehicle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 525
cleaner. Many cleaners contain solvents that may become concentrated in your vehicle's breathing space. Before using cleaners, read and adhere to all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning your vehicle's interior, maintain adequate ventilation by opening your vehicle's doors and windows - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 526
gallon (3.78 L) of water is a good guide. • Do not heavily saturate your upholstery while naptha, alcohol, etc. To clean, use the following instructions: 1. Saturate a lint-free, clean white cloth edge of the soil and gently rub toward the center. Continue cleaning, using a clean area of the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 527
If any of the soil remains, a commercial fabric cleaner or spot lifter may be necessary. When a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter is to be used, test a small hidden area for colorfastness first. If the locally cleaned area gives any impression that a ring formation may result, clean the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 528
. If you do, it may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 529
a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under Washing Your Vehicle on page 5-116. Finish Care Occasional by keeping your vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible. Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts Bright metal parts should be cleaned regularly to keep - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 530
blade with water. Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary; replace blades that look worn. Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels The vehicle may could damage the surface of the wheel(s). The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Use only GM-approved cleaners on aluminum or chrome- - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 531
or chrome-plated wheels. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Never drive a vehicle equipped with aluminum replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 532
areas of finish damage can be corrected in your GM dealer's body and paint shop. Chemical Paint Spotting Some weather and atmospheric conditions and rust can develop on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan, and exhaust system even though they have corrosion protection. At - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 533
on chrome or stainless steel. Removes soil and black marks from whitewalls. Cleans vinyl. Removes dirt, grime and grime from chrome wheels and wire wheel covers. Removes dust, fingerprints, and surface fine scratches, and other light surface contamination. Removes light scratches and protects finish. - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 534
Identification The eighth character in the VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your vehicle's engine, specifications, and replacement parts. Service Parts Identification Label You will find this label on the inside of the glove box. It is very helpful if you ever need to order - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 535
should. Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your vehicle, see Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-86. Power Windows and Other Power Options Circuit breakers protect the power windows and other power accessories. When the current load is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 536
is on the driver's side edge of the instrument panel. Pull off the cover to access the fuse block. To remove fuses, hold the end of the may have spare fuses located behind the fuse block access door. These can be used to replace a bad fuse. However, make sure it is of the correct amperage. Fuses RR - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 537
LOCK (Relay) HVAC 1 LT DR CRUISE UNLCK (Relay) RR FOG LP BRAKE Usage Ignition, Heated Seats Four-Wheel Drive System, Auxiliary Battery Climate Control System Power Door Lock Relay (Lock Function) Climate Control System Driver's Door Harness Connection Cruise Control, Power Take Off (PTO) Power Door - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 538
Driver Door Module Not Used Power Door Lock System Tire Pressure Monitoring System 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 located underneath - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 539
SEAT CB RT DOOR SPARE INFO Usage Ride Control Harness Connection Headliner Wiring Connector Body Wiring Connector Rear Defogger Relay Headliner the engine compartment on the driver's side of the vehicle near the battery. Lift the cover for access to the fuse/relay block. To remove fuses hold the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 540
5-128 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 541
CUST FEED HYBRID STUD #1 Usage Diesel Glow Plugs and Intake Air Heater Gasoline Accessory Power Hybrid Auxiliary Power (Single Battery and Diesels Only)/ Dual Battery (TP2) Do not install fuse. MBEC BLWR Fuses Usage Mid Bussed Electrical Center Power Feed, Front Seats, Right Doors Front Climate - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 542
Lamps Parking Lamps Relay Starter Relay Interior Lamps Stoplamps Truck Body Controller Battery Feed Off-Road Lamps Not Used Auxiliary Power Outlet - Console Powertrain Control Module Electronic Throttle Control, Electronic Brake Controller-Gasoline Engine, Fan Clutch-Diesel Engines Instrument Panel - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 543
Compressor Relay Air Conditioning Compressor Transmission Control Module Not Used Audio System Mid Bussed Electrical Center, Rear Heated Seats, Universal Home Remote System Headlamp Low Beam-Left CRNK BTSI Fuses Usage Brake Transmission Shift Interlock System Starting System Headlamp Low - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 544
/FAN 1 COOL/FAN 3 COOL/FAN 2 Cooling Fan Usage Cooling Fan Relay Fuse Cooling Fan Fuse Usage Cooling Fan Relay 1 Cooling Fan Relay 3 Cooling Fan Relay 2 Lift the cover for access to the fuse/relay block. 5-132 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 545
Fluids and Lubricants (Gasoline Engine) on page 6-14 for more information. Application Cooling System 4.3L V6 Automatic with Front A/C* 4.3L V6 Automatic with Front A/C** 4.3L V6 Manual with Front A/C* 4.3L V6 Manual with Front A/C** 4.8L V8 Automatic with Front A/C* 4.8L V8 Automatic with Front - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 546
Application 8.1L V8 HD Automatic* 8.1L V8 Automatic* 8.1 V8 Manual* * Engine Fan Driven cooling system ** Electric Cooling Fan system Engine Oil with Filter 4.3 V6 4.8 V8; 5.3 V8; 6.0 V8 8.1 V8 Fuel Tank Short Bed and 2500 LD Long Bed and Chassis Cab (Pickup Box Delete) Chassis Cab 3500 and 3500HD - - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 547
3L V8 VORTEC™ 5.3L V8 VORTEC™ 6.0 V8 VORTEC™ 6.0L V8 VORTEC™ 8.1L V8 VIN Code X V Z T U N G Transmission Automatic Manual Automatic Manual Automatic Automatic Automatic Manual Automatic Manual Automatic Manual Spark Plug Gap 0.060 inches (1.52 mm) 0.040 inches (1.01 mm) 0.040 inches (1.01 mm) 0.040 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 548
✍ NOTES 5-136 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 549
Once a Year ...6-12 Recommended Fluids and Lubricants (Gasoline Engine) ...6-14 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts (Gasoline Engines) ...6-18 Engine Drive Belt Routing ...6-19 Maintenance Record ...6-20 Maintenance Schedule ...6-2 Introduction ...6-2 Maintenance Requirements ...6-2 Your Vehicle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 550
at the proper level and change as recommended. Maintenance Requirements Notice: 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 551
, maintenance needs vary. You may need more frequent checks and replacements. So please read the following and note how you drive. If you have any dealer for your service needs, you will know that GM-trained and supported service technicians will perform the work using genuine GM parts. 6-3 • - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 552
page 6-18. When your vehicle is serviced, make sure these are used. All parts should be replaced and all necessary repairs done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle. We recommend the use of genuine GM parts. at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your GM Goodwrench - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 553
If necessary, replace filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. See footnote (p). Rotate tires and check inflation pressures and wear. See Tire Inspection and Rotation on page 5-81 and "Tire Wear Inspection" in At Least Once a Month on page 6-12. Inspect brake system. See - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 554
. See "Additional Required Services" in this section. Inspect suspension and steering components. See footnote (b). Inspect engine cooling system. See footnote (c). Inspect wiper blades. See footnote (d). Inspect restraint system components. See footnote (e). Lubricate body components. See footnote - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 555
Services Service and Miles (Kilometers) Inspect fuel system for damage or leaks. Inspect exhaust system for loose or damaged components. Vehicles without a filter restriction indicator: Replace engine air cleaner filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter (Gasoline Engines) on page 5-25. 6-speed manual - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 556
. An Emission Control Service. 5-speed manual transmission only: Change manual transmission fluid. Engine cooling system service (or every five years, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. See footnote (i). Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An Emission Control Service. See footnote - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 557
or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also look for any opened or broken airbag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. The airbag system does not need - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 558
dealer perform this service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-35 for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap. 6-10 (j) A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 559
each engine oil change. (q) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary. At Each Fuel Fill It vehicle. Your GM Goodwrench® dealer can assist you with these checks and services. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Whenever any - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 560
room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-52. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and service. Tire Wear Inspection Tire rotation may be required for high mileage highway drivers prior to the Engine Oil Life System service noti - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 561
Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK in each shift lever position. • The ignition should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). • The key should come out only in LOCK. Contact your GM Goodwrench® dealer if service is required. 6-13 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 562
vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. Underbody Flushing Service At least every spring, use plain water to flush ed below by name, part number, or specification may be obtained from your dealer. • To check the parking brake's holding ability: With - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 563
Use only GM Clutch System Part No. U.S. 88958860, in Canada (6-Speed 88901244, Super DOT-4 brake fluid. Trans.) Usage Fluid/Lubricant GM Power Steering Fluid (GM Part Power Steering No. U.S. 89021184, in Canada System 89021186). Manual GM Goodwrench® Synthetic Manual Transmission Transmission Fluid - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 564
(GM Part No. U.S. 12378261, in Canada 10953455) meeting GM Specification 9986115. Usage Manual Transfer Case Automatic Transfer Case Front Axle Propshaft Spline or One-Piece Propshaft Spline (Two-Wheel Drive with Auto. Trans.) Rear Driveline Center Spline Fluid/Lubricant DEXRON®-III Automatic - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 565
Usage Hood Hinges Body Door Hinge Pins, Tailgate Hinge and Linkage, Folding Seats, and Fuel Door Hinge Fluid/Lubricant Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in Canada 10953474). Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in Canada 10953474). Usage Fluid - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 566
Replacement Parts (Gasoline Engines) Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your GM dealer. If your vehicle has a diesel engine see the maintenance schedule section in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement. Part Engine Air Cleaner/Filter - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 567
Engine Drive Belt Routing V8 Engines V6 Engines 6-19 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 568
Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the type of services performed in the boxes provided. See Maintenance Requirements on page 6-2. Any additional information from Owner Checks and Services on page 6-11 can - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 569
Maintenance Record (cont'd) Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed 6-21 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 570
Maintenance Record (cont'd) Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed 6-22 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 571
Government ...7-14 Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors ...7-14 Service Publications Ordering Information ...7-15 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 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 572
. If the matter has already been reviewed with the sales, service or parts manager, contact the owner of the dealership or the general manager name and location. • Vehicle delivery date and present mileage. When contacting GMC, please remember that your concern will likely be resolved at a dealer's - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 573
fic vehicle information can be found in one place. The Online Owner 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 (United States only). • Keep track of your vehicle - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 574
who 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.) From Puerto Rico - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 575
Islands) General Motors de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. Customer Assistance Center Paseo de la Reforma # 2740 Col. Lomas de Bezares C.P. 11910, Mexico the cost of eligible aftermarket adaptive equipment required for your vehicle, such as hand controls or a wheelchair/scooter lift. The offer is - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 576
is responsible for the repair or replacement of the tire if not covered by a warrantable failure. • Jump Start: No-start occurrences which require a battery jump start will be covered at no charge. • Dealer Locator Service • Trip Routing: Your Roadside Assistance Representative can provide - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 577
, text telephone (TTY) users, call 1-888-889-2438. GMC reserves the right to limit services or reimbursement to an owner or driver when, in GMC's judgement, the claims become excessive in frequency or type of occurrence. Roadside Assistance is not part of or included in the coverage provided by the - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 578
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 maximum amount per day and must be supported by receipts. This requires that you sign - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 579
event, computer systems, such as the Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) in your vehicle may record information about the condition of the vehicle and how it was operated, such as data related to engine speed, brake application, throttle position, vehicle speed, safety belt usage, airbag - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 580
read the information if they have access to the vehicle or the device that stores the data. If your vehicle is equipped with OnStar®, please check the OnStar® subscription service agreement or manual using the proper equipment and quality replacement parts. Poorly performed collision repairs will - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 581
parts may fit poorly, exhibit premature durability/corrosion problems, and may not perform properly in subsequent collisions. Aftermarket parts are not covered recommend a collision repair center that has GM- Manufacturer (OEM) parts or Genuine Manufacturer replacement parts. Read your lease carefully - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 582
your vehicle only if its position puts you in danger or you are instructed to move it by a police officer. • If possible, call your or write down the driver's name, the service's name, and the phone number. • Once you have an estimate, read it carefully and make sure you understand what work - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 583
original GM parts. Remember, recycled parts will not be covered by your GM vehicle warranty. Insurance pays the bill for the repair, but you must live with the repair. Depending on your policy limits, your insurance company may initially value the repair using aftermarket parts. Discuss this - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 584
NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope you'll notify us. Please call us at 1-800-GMC-8782 (1-800-462-8782), or write: GMC Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33172 Detroit, MI 48232-5172 In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 585
Ordering Information Service Manuals Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on engines, transmission, axle suspension, brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc. Service Bulletins Service Bulletins give technical service information needed to knowledgeably service General Motors - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 586
Includes a Portfolio, Owner's Manual, and Warranty Booklet. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00 Without Portfolio: Owner's Manual only. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $25.00 ORDER TOLL prices are quoted in U.S. funds. Canadian residents are to make checks payable in U.S. funds. Current and Past Model Order Forms Service - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 587
72 AM-FM Radio ...3-72 Antenna, Fixed Mast ...3-132 Antenna, XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ...3-133 Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ...4-6 Anti-Lock Brake, System Warning Light ...3-42 Appearance Care Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels ...5-118 Care of Safety Belts ...5-116 Chemical Paint Spotting - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 588
130 XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ...3-133 Automatic Headlamp System ...3-15 Automatic Transmission Fluid ...5-28, 5-30 Operation ...2-26 Auxiliary Roof Mounted Lamp Switch ...3-18 Braking in Emergencies ...4-8 Break-In, New Vehicle ...2-21 Bulb Replacement ...5-63 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 589
Cargo Lamp Light ...3-50 Center Console Storage Area ...2-79 Center Front Passenger Position, Safety Belts ...1-25 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) and Cargo Lamp ...5-67 Chains, Tire ...5-89 Check Engine Light ...3-46 Checking Things Under the Hood ...5-12 Chemical Paint Spotting ...5-120 Child - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 590
Cooling System ...5-40 Cruise Control ...3-10 Cruise Control Light ...3-49 Driving ...4-2 Delayed Locking ...2-10 Doing Your Own Service Work ...5-5 Dome Lamp Override ...3-19 Dome Lamps Rear Doors ...2-14 Driver Position, Safety Belt ...1-16 Driver Information Center (DIC) ...3-52 DIC Operation and - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 591
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ...5-25 Battery ...5-51 Check and Service Engine Soon Light ...3-46 Coolant ...5-35 Coolant Heater ...2-25 Coolant Temperature Gage ...3-43 Drive Belt Routing ...6-19 Engine Compartment Overview ...5-14 Exhaust ...2-57 Fan Noise ...5-45 Oil ...5-20 Oil Life System ...5-23 - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 592
Gasoline Octane ...5-6 Gasoline Specifications ...5-6 Low Warning Light ...3-51 Fuses Center Instrument Panel Fuse Block ...5-126 Fuses and Circuit Breakers Restraints ...1-7 Headlamps ...3-14, 5-63 Automatic Headlamp System ...3-15 Bulb Replacement ...5-63 Daytime Running Lamps ...3-15 Flash-to-Pass - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 593
Dome Lamp Override ...3-19 Fog ...3-17 Front Reading ...3-19 LATCH System Child Restraints ...1-42 Latches, Seatback ...1-8 Light Airbag Off ...3-35 Airbag Readiness ...3-35 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ...3-42 Battery Warning ...3-40 Brake System Warning ...3-41 Cargo Lamp ...3-50 Cruise Control - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 594
Replacement Parts ...6-18 Owner Checks and Services ...6-11 Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ...6-14 Scheduled Maintenance ...6-4 Using ...6-3 Your Vehicle and the Environment ...6-2 Malfunction Indicator Light ...3-46 Manual Seats ...1-3 Manual Selectable Ride ...4-10 Manual Transmission - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 595
In ...2-21 Noise Control System, Tampering ...5-62 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts ...6-18 Oil Engine ...5-20 Pressure Gage ...3-48 Oil, Engine Oil Life System ...5-23 Older Children, Restraints ...1-31 Online Owner Center ...7-3 OnStar® System, see OnStar® Manual ...2-73 Other Warning Devices - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 596
71 Setting the Time for Radios without Radio Data Systems (RDS) ...3-71 Theft-Deterrent ...3-129 Understanding Reception ...3-130 Rear Axle ...5-58 Locking ...4-11 Rear Door Security Locks ...2-13 Rear Doors ...2-14 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ...1-29 Rear Seat Audio (RSA) ...3-127 Rear Seat - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 597
the Restraint Systems ...1-87 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash ...1-88 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...2-23 Right Front Passenger Position, Safety Belts ...1-25 Roadside Assistance Program ...7-6 Rocking Your Vehicle to Get it Out ...4-46 Routing, Engine Drive Belt ...6-19 Running - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 598
Center Front Seat Position ...1-56 Rear Seat Position ...1-54 Right Front Seat Position (Crew Cab) ...1-57 Right Front Seat Position (Regular and Extended Cab) ...1-59, 1-65 Security Light ...3-49 Service ...5-4 Accessories Storage Areas Center Console Storage Area Deterrent Systems ...2-19 Content - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 599
Replacement ...5-87 When It Is Time for New Tires ...5-83 Tonneau Cover ...2-80 Tow/Haul Mode ...2-31 Tow/Haul Mode Light ...3-50 Towing Power Take-Off (PTO) ...4-97 Recreational Vehicle ...4-62 Towing (cont.) Towing a Trailer ...4-67 Your Vehicle ...4-62 Traction Assist System (TAS) ...4-8 Manual - 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup | Owner's Manual - Page 600
...3-9 Winter Driving ...4-42 W Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators ...3-31 Warnings DIC Warnings and Messages ...3-55 Hazard Warning Flashers ...3-6 Other Warning Devices ...3-6 Safety and Symbols ...iii Vehicle Damage ...iv 14 X XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ...3-133 Y Your Vehicle and