2016 gmc duramax diesel manual

Upload: helimenes-de-jesus

Post on 06-Jul-2018

229 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    1/132

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    2/132

    Contents   Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

    Instruments and Controls . . . . . . .

    Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . . .

    Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

    Service and Maintenance . . . . . 1

    Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

    Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    3/132

    2 Introduction

    IntroductionThe names, logos, emblems,slogans, vehicle model names, andvehicle body designs appearing inthis manual including, but not limitedto, GM, the GM logo, CHEVROLET,GMC, the CHEVROLET and GMCTruck Emblems, SILVERADO,SIERRA, DENALI, EXPRESS,SAVANA, COLORADO, CANYON,and Duramax are trademarks and/or service marks of General MotorsLLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates,or licensors.

    For vehicles first sold in Canada,substitute the name   “GeneralMotors of Canada Limited”  for GMCand Chevrolet Motor Divisionwherever it appears in this manual.

    This manual describes features thatmay or may not be on the vehiclebecause of optional equipment thatwas not purchased on the vehicle,model variants, countryspecifications, features/applicationsthat may not be available in your region, or changes subsequent tothe printing of this owner manual.

    Refer to the purchasedocumentation relating to your specific vehicle to confirm thefeatures.

    This manual contains information

    that pertains to the operation of your diesel engine. It also contains your Diesel Maintenance Schedule. Thesections in this manual correspondto the sections in your owner manual. This manual, along withyour owner manual, will assist youin the proper use and maintenanceof your vehicle.

    Keep this manual in the vehicle for quick reference.

    Canadian Vehicle Owners

     A French language manual can be

    obtained from your dealer, atwww.helminc.com, or from:

    Propriétaires Canadiens

    On peut obtenir un exemplaire dece guide en français auprès duconcessionnaire ou à l'adressesuivante:

    Helm, Incorporated

     Attention: Customer Service47911 Halyard DrivePlymouth, MI 48170USA

    Litho in U.S.A.Part No. 23133527 B Second Printing   © 2015 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    4/132

    Introduction

    Using this Supplement

    This supplement containsinformation specific to the uniquecomponents of the vehicle. It doesnot explain everything you need to

    know about the vehicle. Read thissupplement along with the owner manual to learn about the vehicle'sfeatures and controls.

    Index

     A good place to look for what youneed is the Index in back of thissupplement. It is an alphabetical list

    of what is in the supplement, andthe page number where you willfind it.

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    5/132

    4 Introduction

    2   NOTES

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    6/132

    In Brief

    In Brief 

    Initial Drive InformationT r a n s m i s s i o n . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

    Performance and MaintenanceEngine Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . 6Diesel Particulate Filter . . . . . . . . . . 6Diesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    Initial DriveInformation

    Transmission

    Cold Operation (8-Cylinder PickupModels Only)

    When temperatures are very cold,the transmission will prevent certainoperations to protect againstdamage. The information belowshows shift range availability basedon transmission oil temperature:

    .

      All shift ranges available at −

    25 °C (−13 °F) or above.

    .   2 (Second) and 3 (Third) shiftranges only at  −35 °C (−31 °F) to−25°C (−13 °F).

    .   2 (Second) shift range only at−35°C (−31 °F) or lower.

    Torque converter clutch operationwill also be prevented when air or transmission oil temperatures arebelow certain levels.

    For areas where ambienttemperatures are below  −40°C(−40 °F), use synthetic transmission

    fluid approved to AllisonTransmission®  specificationTES-295. See  Recommended Fluids and Lubricants  0  121  and Automatic Transmission Fluid  0  96

    Adaptive Shift Controls(8-Cylinder Pickup Models Only)

    The shift quality of a new vehiclemay not be ideal because the Adaptive Shift Control process manot have determined the bestsettings for a particular shift or condition. Shift quality will improvewith continued driving.

    Low Traction Mode (8-Cylinder and 4-Cylinder PickupModels Only)

    Low Traction Mode aids in vehicleacceleration on slippery roadsurfaces such as ice or snow. Byselecting 2 (Second) using RangeSelection Mode while at a stop, thtransmission will limit torque to thedrive wheels to prevent slippage.

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    7/132

    6 In Brief  

    Heater Performance Mode(8-Cylinder Pickup Models Only)

    When cold weather conditions aredetected, the transmission raisespart throttle upshift points after the

    1 (First) to 2 (Second) upshift toincrease engine speed. This featureshortens engine and cab warm uptimes.

    When the transmission is in thismode, upshifts may be delayed.This is normal and does not indicatean operational problem.

    Four-Wheel Drive (8-Cylinder Pickup Models Only)

    When operating in 4  ↓(Four-Wheel-Drive Low), there is avery deep gear reduction. Theresulting shifts will feel exaggerated.

    Performance andMaintenance

    Engine Oil Life System

    The engine oil life system calculatesengine oil life based on vehicle useand displays the CHANGE ENGINEOIL SOON message when it is timeto change the engine oil and filter.The oil life system should be resetto 100% only following an oilchange. See   “Engine Oil LifeSystem”  in the owner manual.

    Diesel Particulate Filter 

    The Duramax engine is equippedwith a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)that will filter or trap particulates.The DPF is under the vehicle in theexhaust system.

    Depending on a number of factorsmonitored by the engine computer,

    the DPF will need to be cleaned of accumulated solids. When acleaning is needed, the enginecomputer will initiate a cleaningaction by warming the exhaust gastemperature. This feature has been

    designed to operate automatically,with limited operator involvement or awareness.

    Noise may be heard at low speedswhen the emission controls are

    active. This is normal.

    Cleaning the DPF (ExhaustFilter)

    While the DPF cleaning isautomatically controlled by theengine computer, the vehicle willneed to operate continuously untilthe message is no longer displayed.

    See  Diesel Particulate Filter Messages 0  23 . Cleaning occursmost effectively above48 km/h (30 mph). If the vehicle isreturned to idle during the cleaningprocess, the driver may notice aslightly different sound or a slightlyelevated engine idle speed. This isnormal. No action is required on thepart of the driver during a regular 

    DPF cleaning. See  Diesel Particulate Filter  0  38 .

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    8/132

    In Brief

    Special DPF Driver Messages

    If the vehicle is used for numerousshort trips or extended slow-speedoperation, the engine computer maynot be able to adequately heat up

    the exhaust system to clean theDPF effectively. The enginecomputer has been designed tocontinuously monitor the conditionof the DPF. When the enginecomputer detects that the DPF isnearly full of particulates and thatthe vehicle is not being operated ina manner that would allow effectiveautomatic DPF cleaning, the Driver Information Center (DIC) will displaya message. See  Diesel ParticulateFilter Messages  0  23 .

    If the vehicle continues to be drivenin a manner that prevents effectiveDPF cleaning, the DPF will becomeplugged with particulates. If thisoccurs, the engine computer willturn on the service engine soon lightin the instrument cluster and theDIC will display the messageENGINE POWER IS REDUCED.See  Diesel Particulate Filter  0  38 and  Engine Power Messages  0  22 .

    Fuel

    Use Ultra Low Sulfur DieselFuel (ULSD)

    Use ULSD only. The emissioncontrol hardware used on thevehicle may be damaged by usingfuel with high sulfur levels. Use onlyfuel that is dispensed from pumpsbearing the ULSD label.

    Do Not Use Low Sulfur DieselFuel (LSD)

    Do not use fuel that is dispensedfrom pumps bearing the LSD label.

    Do Not Use Non-Highway Fuel

    Fuel labeled as off road or non-highway is typically very high insulfur content and will damage theemission control system.Non-highway fuel is not intended for use in on-highway vehicles anddoes not have the fuel properties

    needed by the DPF-equippedDuramax diesel.

    In addition:

    .   Use the correct engine oil.

    .   Do not add gasoline todiesel fuel.

    .   Do not modify the induction orexhaust systems.

    See  Fuel for Diesel Engines  0  47 

    and  Engine Oil  0  92 .

    Diesel Exhaust Fluid

    Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is usewith diesel engines to reduce theamount of regulated emissionsproduced. The DEF system must maintained for the vehicle to runproperly.

    DEF is not a fuel additive. For reflling instructions, see   Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39. DEF should nbe mixed with or added to dieselfuel. DEF freezes when exposed ttemperature below  −11 °C (12 ° F)

    Locating Diesel Exhaust Fluid

    DEF can be purchased at aChevrolet or GMC dealer. It canalso be purchased at authorizedvehicle and truck dealerships. Additionally, some diesel truckfueling stations or retailers mayhave DEF for purchase. For 

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    9/132

    8 In Brief  

    vehicles with an active OnStar ® 

    subscription, OnStar can help tolocate a DEF retailer. See“Customer Assistance Offices”   inthe owner manual for phonenumbers to assist you in contactinga GM dealer. See  Recommended Fluids and Lubricants  0  121.

     As the DEF tank becomes low onfluid, warnings begin withapproximately 1 600 km (1,000 mi)of remaining range. These warningswill increase as the tank becomesempty. Once the tank is empty, thevehicle speed will be limited. If thereis an issue with the quality of thefluid or the exhaust fluid system,warnings will be displayed in theDriver Information Center (DIC).See  Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39 .

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    10/132

    Instruments and Controls

    Instruments andControls

    Warning Lights, Gauges, andIndicatorsInstrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0Fuel Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Engine Oil Pressure Gauge . . . . 17Malfunction Indicator Lamp

    (Check Engine Light) .. . . . . . . . 18Wait-to-Start L ight . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 0Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

    Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

    Power Take-Off Light(8-Cylinder Pickup Models) . . . 21

    Information DisplaysDriver Information

    Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

    Vehicle MessagesVehicle Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Brake System Messages . . . . . . 22

    Engine Cooling SystemMessages (8-Cylinder Pickupsand Vans) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

    Engine Oil Messages . . . . . . . . . . 22Engine Power Messages . . . . . . 22Fuel System Messages .. . . . . . . 22

    Diesel Exhaust FluidMessages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 3

    Diesel Particulate Filter Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 3

    Service Vehicle Messages . . . . . 24Starting the Vehicle

    Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4Vehicle Speed Messages . . . . . . 24

    Vehicle PersonalizationVehicle Personalization . . . . . . . . 26

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    11/132

    10 Instruments and Controls

    Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators

    Instrument Cluster 

    English Base Level 4-Cylinder Pickup Shown, Metric Similar 

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    12/132

    Instruments and Controls

    English Uplevel 4-Cylinder Pickup Shown, Metric Similar 

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    13/132

    12 Instruments and Controls

    English Base Level 8-Cylinder Pickup Shown, Metric Similar 

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    14/132

    Instruments and Controls

    English Uplevel 8-Cylinder Pickup Shown, Metric Similar 

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    15/132

    14 Instruments and Controls

    English 8-Cylinder Denali Pickup Shown, Metric Similar 

    I t t d C t l

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    16/132

    Instruments and Controls

    English Van Shown, Metric Similar 

    16 I t t d C t l

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    17/132

    16 Instruments and Controls

    See the owner manual for warninglights and gauges not listed in thissupplement.

    Fuel Gauge

    Metric Base 4-Cylinder Pickup

    Shown, Uplevel Similar 

    English Base 4-Cylinder Pickup

    Shown, Uplevel Similar 

    Metric 8-Cylinder Pickup Models

    English 8-Cylinder Pickup Models

    Metric Van Models

    Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    18/132

    Instruments and Controls

    English Van Models

    When the ignition is on, the fuelgauge shows approximately howmuch fuel the vehicle has left in thetank. The gauge will first indicateE (Empty) before the vehicle is outof fuel, but the vehicle's fuel tankshould be filled soon.

     An arrow on the fuel gaugeindicates the side of the vehicle thefuel door is on.

    Listed are four situations customersmay experience with the fuel gauge:

    .   At the gas station, the fuel pumpshuts off before the gauge readsF (Full).

    .   It takes a little more or less fuelto fill up than the fuel gaugeindicated. For example, thegauge may have indicated thetank was half full, but it actuallytook a little more or less than

    half the tank's capacity to fillthe tank.

    .   The gauge moves a little whileturning a corner or speeding up.

    .   The gauge does not go back toE (Empty) when the ignition isturned off.

    None of these indicate a problem

    with the fuel gauge.For information on how to fill the fueltank, see  Filling the Tank  0  62 .

    Engine Oil PressureGauge

    4-Cylinder Pickup Models

    See   “Oil Pressure”  under   “Driver Information Center (DIC)”  in theowner manual.

    Metric 8-Cylinder Pickup Mode

    English 8-Cylinder Pickup Mode

    18 Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    19/132

    18 Instruments and Controls

    Metric Van Models

    English Van Models

    Caution

    Lack of proper engine oil

    maintenance can damage theengine. Driving with the engine oil

    low can also damage the engine.The repairs would not be coveredby the vehicle warranty. Checkthe oil level as soon as possible. Add oil if required, but if the oillevel is within the operating rangeand the oil pressure is still low,have the vehicle serviced. Alwaysfollow the maintenance schedule

    for changing engine oil.

    The engine oil pressure gaugereads in kPa (kilopascals) or psi(pounds per square inch) when theengine is running. Oil pressure mayvary with engine speed, outsidetemperature, and oil viscosity.

    If readings are outside the normaloperating range, the low oilpressure message may display onthe Driver Information Center (DIC),or for vehicles without DIC the oilpressure light will come on. If the oil

    pressure message or light comeson, check the oil level immediately.Do not operate the engine with theoil pressure warning light on or anENGINE OIL LOW ADD OILmessage displayed.

    Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check EngineLight)

    This light is part of the vehicle’semission control on-boarddiagnostic system. If this light is onwhile the engine is running, a

    malfunction has been detected andthe vehicle may require service. Thelight should come on to show that itis working when the ignition is inON/RUN with the engine notrunning. See   “Ignition Positions”  inthe owner manual.

    This light may also come on whenthe system has detected a problem

    with the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)management system. See  Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39.

    Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    20/132

    Instruments and Controls

    Malfunctions are often indicated bythe system before any problem isnoticeable. Being aware of the lightand seeking service promptly whenit comes on may prevent damage.

    Caution

    If the vehicle is driven continually

    with this light on, the emissioncontrol system may not work aswell, the fuel economy may belower, and the vehicle may notrun smoothly. This could lead tocostly repairs that might not be

    covered by the vehicle warranty.

    Caution

    Modifications to the engine,

    transmission, exhaust, intake,or fuel system, or the use of 

    replacement tires that do notmeet the original tirespecifications, can cause this lightto come on. This could lead tocostly repairs not covered by thevehicle warranty. This could alsoaffect the vehicle’s ability to passan Emissions Inspection/ Maintenance test. See

     Accessories and Modifications 0  85 .

    When the light is on, a malfunctionhas been detected. Diagnosis andservice may be required.

    Poor fuel quality can causeinefficient engine operation and poor driveability, which may go awayonce the engine is warmed up.If this occurs, change the fuel brand.It may require at least one full tankof the proper fuel to turn the light off.See  Fuel for Diesel Engines  0  47 .

    If the light remains on, see your dealer.

    Emissions Inspection andMaintenance Programs

    If the vehicle requires an Emission

    Inspection/Maintenance test, thetest equipment will likely connect the vehicle's Data LinkConnector (DLC).

    The DLC is under the instrumentpanel to the left of the steeringwheel. Connecting devices that arnot used to perform an EmissionsInspection/Maintenance test or toservice the vehicle may affectvehicle operation See   “ Add-On

    Electrical Equipment” in the ownemanual. See your dealer if assistance is needed.

    20 Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    21/132

    20 Instruments and Controls

    The vehicle may not passinspection if:

    .   The light is on when the engineis running.

    .   The light does not come on

    when the ignition is in ON/RUNwith the engine not running.

    .   Critical emission control systemshave not been completelydiagnosed. If this happens, thevehicle would not be ready for inspection and might requireseveral days of routine drivingbefore the system is ready for 

    inspection. This can happen if the 12-volt battery has recentlybeen replaced or run down, or if the vehicle has been recentlyserviced.

    See your dealer if the vehicle willnot pass or cannot be made readyfor the test.

    Wait-to-Start Light

    If the wait-to-start light comes on,the glow plug system is requiredand operating. Wait until the lightturns off before starting the engine.This light may not come on in warmtemperatures.

    The fast warm-up glow plug systemmakes the wait-to-start light stay onfor a shorter amount of time thanmost diesel engines.

    See  Starting the Diesel Engine  0  28 .

    Diesel Exhaust Fluid(DEF) Warning Light

    This light, a Driver InformationCenter (DIC) message, and a chimecome on when there is an issue withthe Diesel Exhaust Fluid.

    See  Diesel Exhaust Fluid Messages

    0  23   for information on the specificmessage displaying with the light.

    If the DEF level has not beencorrected, the light will continue toflash when the vehicle is started.The vehicle's speed may also belimited.

     Also see  Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39.

    Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    22/132

    Instruments and Controls

    Power Take-Off Light(8-Cylinder PickupModels)

    Non-Denali Pickups

    The vehicle may have a Power Take-Off (PTO) light. Under normaloperating conditions, the PTO lightwill remain on throughout the PTOoperating cycle. If all conditionsrequired to engage PTO have notbeen met when enabling PTO, thePTO light will turn on, then turn off after one second. See  Power Take-Off (PTO)  0  71 .

    Information Displays

    Driver InformationCenter (DIC)

    The DIC is in the instrument cluster.The DIC comes on when the ignitionis on.

     A diesel vehicle may have thefollowing additional DIC menu items:

    Exhaust Fluid Level :  The DieselExhaust Fluid (DEF) level will bedisplayed as either OK, XX%,or LOW.

    When LOW appears on the display,add DEF as soon as possible. SeeDiesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39 .

    Fuel Filter Life Remaining :  Thisdisplay shows an estimate of thefuel filter's remaining useful life.If 90% Fuel Filter Life Remaining isdisplayed, it means 90% of thecurrent fuel filter life remains. Thefuel filter life system will alert whento change the fuel filter on aschedule consistent with your driving conditions.

    When the remaining fuel filter life low, the CHANGE FUEL FILTERmessage will appear on the displaChange the fuel filter as soon aspossible.

    Fuel Filter Life Reset :  Reset theFuel Filter Life Remaining displayafter each fuel filter change. It willnot reset itself. Also, be careful noto reset the display at any time oththan when the fuel filter has justbeen changed because it cannot reset accurately until the next fuelfilter change. The fuel filter life wilchange to 100% when the system

    has been reset. To reset the systepress and hold the set/reset buttoor the trip odometer reset stem if there are no DIC buttons, for two seconds while Fuel Filter LifeRemaining is displayed on the DIC

    22 Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    23/132

    22 Instruments and Controls

    Vehicle MessagesThe Driver Information Center (DIC)will display warning messages if aproblem is detected. Pressing theselect button or the set/reset button

    for vehicles with DIC buttons, or thetrip odometer reset stem for vehicleswithout DIC buttons, willacknowledge some current warningor service messages. Other messages are more urgent andcannot be cleared from the displayuntil the issue is corrected.

    The following are some additional

    messages that the diesel vehiclecan display.

    Brake System Messages

    EXHAUST BRAKE ON/OFF

    This message displays when theexhaust brake is on or off.

    Engine Cooling SystemMessages (8-Cylinder Pickups and Vans)

    COOLANT LEVEL LOW ADD

    COOLANTThis message will appear on theDIC if the engine coolant level islow. Adding coolant to the coolantrecovery tank will clear themessage. For pickups only,remember to check the coolant inboth sides of the reservoir. See“Engine Coolant” in the owner 

    manual.

    Engine Oil Messages

    ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL

    This message only displays whenthe ignition key is turned to ON/RUNand the oil level in the vehicle is low.Check the oil level and correct it as

    necessary. Let the vehicle cool or warm up and cycle the ignition to besure this message clears.

    This message clears itself after 10 seconds, until the next ignitioncycle. See  Engine Oil  0  92 .

    Engine Power Messages

    ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED

     A computer monitors the operationof the engine. If the ENGINEPOWER IS REDUCED messagecomes on while driving, there will bea reduction in performance andacceleration. Take the vehicle in for service.

    Fuel System Messages

    CHANGE FUEL FILTER

    This message will appear on the

    DIC for 10 seconds when a fuel filter change is required. See  Fuel Filter Replacement  0  58 .

    WATER IN FUEL SERVICEREQUIRED

    This message will come on to warnyou if there is water in the dieselfuel system. For more information

    on how this message works, seeWater in Fuel  0  53 .

    Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    24/132

    Instruments and Controls

    Diesel Exhaust FluidMessages

    For more information on thesemessages, see   “Exhaust Fluid Low”or   “Exhaust Fluid Quality Poor ”  in

    Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39 .

    EXHAUST FLUID RANGE:XXXX KM (MI)

    When the Diesel ExhaustFluid (DEF) level is getting low, therange will be displayed in either kilometers or miles. It is normal for the EXHAUST FLUID RANGE to

    vary based on vehicle andenvironmental driving conditions.This message first displays atapproximately 1 600 km (1,000 mi)of range remaining.

    EXHAUST FLUID LOW SPEEDLIMITED SOON

    When the DEF range is less than

    120 km (75 mi) this message will bedisplayed.

    EXHAUST FLUID EMPTYREFILL NOW 

    This message will be displayedwhen the DEF tank is empty. Thismessage may be accompanied by

    other messages that provide moreinformation.

    EXHAUST FLUID QUALITYPOOR SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW 

    This message displays when theDEF is of poor quality or the wrongfluid was added. This message maybe accompanied by other messagesthat provide more information.

    Diesel Particulate Filter Messages

    CLEANING EXHAUST FILTERCONTINUE DRIVING(4-Cylinder Pickups andUplevel 8-Cylinder Pickups) oDIESEL PARTIC FILTER ISFULL CONTINUE DRIVING(Base Level 8-Cylinder Pickups) or CLEANINGEXHAUST FILTER KEEPDRIVING UNTIL MESSAGE ISCLEARED (Vans)

    This message will appear on theDIC when an exhaust particulatefilter cleaning is required. To cleanthe filter, drive the vehicle above50 km/h (30 mph) until the warninmessage goes off. This will takeabout 30 minutes.

    If the filter is not cleaned, themalfunction indicator lamp will com

    on and the ENGINE POWER ISREDUCED message will bedisplayed. Vehicle performance wbe limited. See  Diesel ParticulateFilter  0  38 .

    24 Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    25/132

    CLEANING EXHAUST FILTERMUST CONTINUE DRIVING(4-Cylinder Pickups)

    It is important to keep driving toclean the exhaust filter. This will

    take about 30 minutes.

    Service Vehicle Messages

    CHANGE TIMING BELT(4 –Cylinder Pickup Only)

    This message displays whenscheduled maintenance on thetiming belt is required. See your 

    dealer for service.SERVICE EXHAUST FLUIDSYSTEM SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW 

    This message displays when theDEF system needs service. Thismessage may be accompanied byother messages that provide more

    information. See  “

    Service ExhaustFluid System” in  Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39.

    SERVICE EMISSION SYSTEMSEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW 

    This message displays when theemission system needs service.Take the vehicle to your dealer. See“Service Emission System

    ” in  Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39 .

    Starting the VehicleMessages

    ELEVATED IDLE OFF

    This message will appear when theelevated idle feature has been

    turned off. See   “Elevated Idle”

     under Starting the Diesel Engine  0  28 .

    ELEVATED IDLE ON

    This message will appear when theelevated idle feature has beenturned on. See   “Elevated Idle” under Starting the Diesel Engine  0  28 .

    FAST IDLE ON (Van

    Models Only)

    If the vehicle has this feature, thismessage displays when the fast idlefeature is on. See   “Fast Idle Control

    (8-Cylinder Pickups and Vans Only)”under  Starting the Diesel Engine  0  28 .

    Vehicle Speed Messages

    For more information on thesemessages, see  Diesel Exhaust Fluid  0  39 .

    XXX KM (MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED

    This message will be displayedalong with other messages. Thesemessages include EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICEEMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICEEXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. Thevehicle speed will be limited to105 km/h (65 mph) when thecountdown is over.

    XXX KM (MI) UNTIL 88 KM/H(55 MPH) MAX SPEED

    This message will be displayedalong with other messages. Thesemessages include EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICEEMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICE

    Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    26/132

    EXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. Thevehicle speed will be limited to88 km/h (55 mph) when thecountdown is over.

    XXX KM (MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H

    (4 MPH) MAX SPEEDThis message will be displayedalong with other messages. Thesemessages include EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR,or SERVICE EXHAUST FLUIDSYSTEM. The vehicle speed will belimited to 7 km/h (4 mph) when the

    countdown is over.TRANSITIONING TO XX KM/H(XX MPH) MAX SPEED

    This message will be displayedalong with other messages. Thesemessages include EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICEEMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICEEXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. Whenthis message is displayed, the endof the countdown has been reachedand the vehicle speed is beinglimited.

    SPEED LIMITED TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH)

    This message will be displayedalong with other messages. Thesemessages include EXHAUST FLUID

    EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICEEMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICEEXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. Whenthis message is displayed, thevehicle speed is being limited to105 km/h (65 mph).

    SPEED LIMITED TO 88 KM/H(55 MPH)

    This message will be displayedalong with other messages. Thesemessages include EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR, SERVICEEMISSION SYSTEM, or SERVICEEXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM. Whenthis message is displayed, thevehicle speed is being limited to

    88 km/h (55 mph).

    SPEED LIMITED TO 7 KM/ H (4 MPH)

    This message will be displayedalong with other messages. Thesemessages include EXHAUST FLU

    EMPTY REFILL NOW, EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR,or SERVICE EXHAUST FLUIDSYSTEM. When this message isdisplayed, the vehicle speed isbeing limited to 7 km/h (4 mph).

    26 Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    27/132

    VehiclePersonalizationUse the audio system controls toaccess the personalization menusfor customizing vehicle features.

    The following features may beavailable on some vehicles with adiesel engine. See   “VehiclePersonalization” in the owner manual for additional vehiclepersonalizations.

    System Controls

    1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUNwithout the engine running andplace the vehicle in P (Park).

    To avoid excessive drain onthe battery, turn theheadlamps off.

    2. Press the MENU knob on theradio.

    3. Turn the MENU knob to scroll

    to SETTINGS, then press theMENU knob.

    4. Turn the MENU knob to scrollto Vehicle, then press theMENU knob.

    5. Turn the MENU knob to scrollto the desired menu, thenpress the MENU knob.

    If equipped, these features may beselected using the touchscreen.

    VehicleSelect and the following maydisplay:

    .   Climate and Air Quality

    .   Power Take-Off (PTO)

    Climate and Air Quality

    Select and the following may

    display:.   Elevated Idle

    Elevated Idle

    This allows the feature to be turnedon and off. See   “Elevated Idle” inStarting the Diesel Engine  0  28 .

    Select Off or On.

    Power Take-Off (PTO) (If Equipped)

    There may be additional featuresthat can be customized for the PTO.See  Power Take-Off (PTO)  0  71 .

    See your dealer to enable thesefeatures.

    Feature Settings Menu Items

    Press the MENU knob to select thedesired setting.

    .   Standby Speed

    .   Set 1 Speed

    .   Set 2 Speed

    .   Tap Step Speed

    .   Shutdown Time

    Turn the MENU knob to scroll toone of the following menuselections:

    PTO STANDBY SPEED

    This feature allows for modifying the

    PTO Standby Speed.

    Turn the MENU knob to the desiredsetting. Press the MENU knob toselect the desired setting.

    Instruments and Controls

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    28/132

    PTO SET 1 SPEED

    This feature is available if thevehicle is configured for StationaryPreset PTO, and allows theselection of the PTO set 1 speed.

    Turn the MENU knob to the desiredPTO Standby Set 1 setting. Pressthe MENU knob to select thedesired setting.

    PTO SET 2 SPEED

    This feature is available if thevehicle is configured for StationaryPreset PTO, and allows theselection of the PTO set 2 speed.

    Turn the MENU knob to the desiredPTO Standby Set 2 setting. Pressthe MENU knob to select thedesired setting.

    PTO TAP STEP SPEED

    This feature is available if thevehicle is configured for StationaryVariable or Mobile PTO, and allows

    the selection of the PTO tap stepspeed.

    Turn the MENU knob to the desiredPTO Tap Step Speed setting. Pressthe MENU knob to select thedesired setting.

    PTO SHUTDOWN TIME

    This feature is available if thevehicle is configured for StationaryPreset or Stationary Variable PTO,and allows the selection of the PTOshutdown time.

    Turn the MENU knob to the desiredPTO Shutdown Time setting. Pressthe MENU knob to select thedesired setting.

    28 Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    29/132

    Driving andOperating

    Starting and Operating

    Starting the Diesel Engine . . . . . 28Winter Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31E n g i n e H e a t e r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 5Fuel Operated Heater (FOH) . . . 37Parking over Things

    That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

    Diesel Particulate Filter Diesel Particulate Filter . . . . . . . . 38

    Diesel Exhaust FluidDiesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . 39

    BrakesExhaust Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

    FuelFuel for Diesel Engines . . . . . . . . 47What Fuel to Use in

    The U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

    What Fuel to Use in Canadaand Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

    Cold Weather Operation . . . . . . . 53Water in Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Running Out of Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . 5 7Fuel Filter Replacement . . . . . . . 58

    Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Filling a Portable Fuel

    Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

    TowingT ra ile r T o win g . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 4

    Conversions and Add-OnsPower Take-Off (PTO) . . . . . . . . . 71

    Starting andOperating

    Starting the DieselEngine

    The diesel engine starts differentlythan a gasoline engine.

    Caution

    If the steering wheel is turneduntil it reaches the end of itstravel, and is held in that position

    while starting the vehicle, damagemay occur to the hydraulic power steering system and there may beloss of power steering assist.

    Move the shift lever to P (Park) or N (Neutral). To restart the enginewhen the vehicle is already moving,use N (Neutral) only.

    Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    30/132

    Caution

    Do not try to shift to P (Park) if the

    vehicle is moving. If you do, youcould damage the transmission.

    Shift to P (Park) only when thevehicle is stopped.

    Starting the Engine

    1. Turn the ignition key toON/RUN.

    Observe the wait-to-start light.See  Wait-to-Start Light  0  20 .

    This light may not come on if the engine is warm.

    2. If the wait-to-start light is on,wait until this light goes off.Then turn the ignition key toSTART. When the enginestarts, let go of the key.

    The engine has a fast warm-upglow plug system. The

    wait-to-start light will illuminatefor a much shorter time thanmost diesel engines, due to therapid heating of the glow plugsystem.

    Caution

    If the wait-to-start light stays on

    after starting the vehicle, thevehicle may not run properly.

    Have the vehicle servicedright away.

    3. If the engine does not startafter 15 seconds of cranking,turn the ignition switch toLOCK/OFF. Wait one minutefor the cranking motor to cool,then try the same steps again.

    If you are trying to start the engineafter you have run out of fuel, followthe steps in  Running Out of Fuel  0  57 .

    When the engine is cold, let it runfor a few minutes before driving.This lets oil pressure build up. Theengine will sound louder when itis cold.

    Cold Weather Starting (DieseEngine)

    Use the recommended engine oilwhen the outside temperature drobelow freezing. See  Engine Oil 0  92 . When the outside temperatudrops below   –18 °C (0 °F), use of the engine coolant heater isrecommended.

    If you experience longer crankingtimes, notice an unusual amount oexhaust smoke, or are at higher elevations (over 2 135 m or 7,000you may use the engine coolantheater. See  Engine Heater  0  35 .

    See  Fuel for Diesel Engines  0  47  information on what fuel to use incold weather.

    If the Diesel Engine Will NotStart

    If the vehicle runs out of fuel, seeRunning Out of Fuel  0  57 .

    If the vehicle is not out of fuel, andthe engine will not start:

    Turn the ignition key to ON/RUN. After the wait-to-start light goes ofturn the ignition key to START.

    30 Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    31/132

    If the light does not go off, wait afew seconds, then try starting theengine again. See your dealer assoon as you can for a startingsystem check.

    If the light comes on and then goes

    off and you know the batteries arecharged, but the engine still will notstart, the vehicle needs service.

    If the light does not come on whenthe engine is cold, the vehicleneeds service.

    If the batteries do not have enoughcharge to start the engine, see“Battery

    ”  in the owner manual.

    Check that the correct engine oilhas been used and changed atappropriate intervals. If the wrong oilis used, the engine may be harder to start.

    Be sure you are using the proper fuel for existing weather conditions.See  Fuel for Diesel Engines  0  47 .

    If the engine starts, runs a shorttime, then stops, the vehicle needsservice.

    { Warning

    Do not use gasoline or starting

    aids, such as ether, in the air intake. They could damage the

    engine, which may not becovered by the vehicle warranty.They could also cause a fire,which could cause seriouspersonal injury.

    Engine Idle Variations

    Under certain conditions the engineidle speed can vary or be elevated.Change in idle speed is normal anddoes not indicate a problem. Normalconditions that can raise idle speedare low voltage, DPF regeneration,air conditioning compressor loads,and engine warmup. These speedscan range from approximately 600to 1000 rpm.

    Elevated IdleThe engine has a cold temperaturehigh idle feature which elevates theengine idle speed from base idle to1050 to 1100 rpm for pickup models

    or 1200 rpm for van models whenoutside temperatures are below 0 °C(32 °F), and the engine coolanttemperature is below 65 °C (150 °F).This feature enhances heater performance by raising the engine

    coolant temperature faster.To turn this feature on or off onpickup models, see  VehiclePersonalization  0  26 .

    On van models, this feature can beturned on and off using the DICbuttons.

    When the engine is started, it will

    slowly ramp up to the high idlespeed after a delay of a fewseconds up to approximatelytwo minutes. For this method towork properly there must be nothrottle or brake pedal faults.

    The engine idle speed will return tonormal once the following conditionsare met:

    .   Engine coolant temperaturereaches 65 °C (150 °F).

    .   Air intake temperature reaches0 °C (32 °F).

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    32/132

    32 Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    33/132

    these temperatures, the vehicledoes not need a large amount of air to properly cool the engine. Whenmore airflow is required to cool thevehicle, the winter cover should notbe used. The following usage

    guidelines will allow adequateairflow for proper radiator and air cooler performance:

    .   Do not use the winter cover if towing a trailer. The vehicle mayoverheat if the radiator iscovered while towing.

    .   Do not use the winter cover if asnow plow is mounted on the

    truck.

    .   Do not cover the opening in thefront bumper.

    .   Do not modify the cover. Thewinter cover does not cover some sections of the front of thevehicle to provide enough

    airflow.

    .   When the winter cover is used,the outside air temperaturedisplay may not functionproperly.

    .   Keep the underside of the winter cover as clean as possible.Remove monthly or as

    necessary and clean away dustand debris.

    .   Use only a mild soap to clean.Do not use harsh soap, strongdetergents, or vinyl protectant/ sealant type products as theymay damage the special finish. Allow the winter cover to drycompletely before reinstalling.

    Installation Instructions

    When first trying to fit the cover, itmay appear to be undersized butwill stretch during installation toensure a tight fit. The initial

    installation of the cover is bestperformed when the winter cover is warm.

    Installation (Chevrolet Pickup)

    1. The white label must be at thetop and back of the cover.

    Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    34/132

    2. Starting in the middle, attachfastening points as illustrated.

    3. To remove, reverse the stepslisted previously.

    Installation (GMC Pickup)

    1. The white label must be at th

    top and back of the cover.

    34 Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    35/132

    2. Starting in the middle, attachfastening points as illustrated.

    3. To remove, reverse the stepslisted previously.

    Installation (Van Models)

    1. Open the hood and secure itwith the prop rod.

    Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    36/132

    2. Hook the five J-clips to thebottom edge of the grille.

    3. Hook the top center J-clip bythe hood latch.

    4. Attach the metal hooks, oneeach at the top corners.

    5. To remove the winter cover,reverse the steps listedpreviously.

    Engine Heater 

    If equipped, the engine coolantheater can provide easier startingcold weather conditions at or belo−18 °C (0 °F). The engine coolantheater should be plugged in at leafour hours before starting.

    To Use the Engine Heater 

    1. Turn off the engine.

    8-Cylinder Pickups and Vans

    36 Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    37/132

    4-Cylinder Pickups

    2. Open the hood and unwrap theelectrical cord. The cord is in

    the engine compartment, onthe passenger side near thebattery, for 8-cylinder pickupsand vans. The cord is in theengine compartment, on thedriver side behind the battery,for 4-cylinder pickups.

    3. Clean and dry the heater cordand connector ends. Check the

    heater cord for damage. If it isdamaged, do not use it. Seeyour dealer for a replacement.Inspect the cord for damageyearly.

    4. Plug it into a normal, grounded110-volt AC outlet.

    { Warning

    Improper use of the heater cord

    or an extension cord can damagethe cord and may result inoverheating and fire.

    .   Plug the cord into athree-prong electrical utilityreceptacle that is protectedby a ground fault detectionfunction. An ungroundedoutlet could cause an

    electric shock..   Use a weatherproof,

    heavy-duty, 15 amp-ratedextension cord if needed.Failure to use therecommended extensioncord in good operatingcondition, or using adamaged heater or 

    extension cord, could make(Continued)

    Warning (Continued)

    it overheat and cause a fire,property damage, electricshock, and injury.

    .

      Do not operate the vehiclewith the heater cordpermanently attached to thevehicle. Possible heater cord and thermostatdamage could occur.

    .   While in use, do not let theheater cord touch vehicleparts or sharp edges. Never 

    close the hood on theheater cord.

    .   Before starting the vehicle,unplug the cord, reattachthe cover to the plug, andsecurely fasten the cord.Keep the cord away fromany moving parts.

    5. Before starting the engine, besure to unplug and store thecord as it was before to keep itaway from moving engineparts, and prevent damage.

    Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    38/132

    The length of time the heater shouldremain plugged in depends on theoutside temperature. You may wishto use the coolant heater to improveease of starting at temperaturesbetween −18 °C (0 °F) and −29 °

    C (−

    20 °F). Keep the coolant heater plugged in for a minimum of four hours. At temperatures below  −29 °C (−20 °F), the coolant heater should remain plugged in for at leasteight hours. Be sure to store thecord before starting the engine. SeeFuel for Diesel Engines  0  47  for information on what fuel to use incold weather.

    Caution

    Do not use the engine heater continuously. This could damagethe engine heater and may causea fire. Always unplug the engine

    heater after use.

    Fuel OperatedHeater (FOH)

    For vans with an FOH, it willenhance heater performance andwill reduce the amount of time it

    takes to warm the inside of thevehicle in cold conditions below or equal to 4 °C (39 °F). The FOH isinstalled on the frame rail on thedriver side of the vehicle and usesdiesel fuel to heat the enginecoolant, which warms up thepassenger cabin air.

    The FOH will turn on if all of the

    following conditions exist:.   Outside air temperature is below

    or equal to 4 °C (39 °F).

    .   Fuel level is greater or equal t12.5% of the total fuel tankvolume.

    .   The engine is running.

    .   Coolant temperature is less th70 °C (158 °F).

    Parking over ThingsThat Burn

    { Warning

    Things that can burn could touchhot exhaust parts under the

    vehicle and ignite. Do not parkover papers, leaves, dry grass,or other things that can burn.

    38 Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    39/132

    Diesel ParticulateFilter The vehicle has a Diesel ParticulateFilter (DPF) as part of the exhaustsystem to reduce vehicle emissions.

    The DPF requires a unique exhausttailpipe with an exhaust cooler. Theexhaust cooler mixes air with theexhaust to lower the temperaturebefore it leaves the tailpipe.

    The DPF, the tailpipe, or other exhaust system components mustnot be altered. Inspect regularly andclean any mud or dirt from the

    exhaust cooler, especially where theexhaust cooler connects to thetailpipe and the openings wherefresh air enters the cooler.

    The DPF will clean itself as part of normal operation. Several factorsincluding fuel consumed, hours of engine operation, and miles drivenare monitored by the Engine Control

    Module (ECM). The self-cleaningoccurs approximately once per tankof fuel.

    Caution

    Permanent damage can occur to

    the DPF or related components if the required Ultra Low Sulfur 

    Diesel (15 ppm sulfur maximum)or low ash CJ-4 engine oil is notused. This damage would not becovered by the vehicle warranty.

    Under certain driving conditions,such as stop-and-go traffic, the filter cannot clean itself. A messagecomes on when the DPF is dirty and

    needs to perform a self cleaning.See  Diesel Particulate Filter Messages  0  23 .

    For the filter to clean itself, thevehicle must be driven above50 km/h (30 mph) until the messagegoes off. This will take about30 minutes. See Diesel ParticulateFilter Messages  0  23 .

    { Warning

    During DPF self cleaning or 

    during extended idling in P (Park),the exhaust system and exhaust

    gases are very hot. Things thatburn could touch hot exhaustparts under the vehicle and ignite.You or others could be burned.Do not park, or idle for anextended period of time, near or over papers, leaves, dry grass,or other things that can burn.Keep the exhaust area clear of material that could ignite or burn.

    See  Parking over Things That Burn  0  37   for more information.

    Caution

    Extended idle should be avoided

    because the DPF system is notcapable of self cleaning at idle.

    During extended idle operation,monitor the instrument cluster telltale lights and Driver 

    (Continued)

    Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    40/132

    Caution (Continued)

    Information Center for messages

    and take appropriate indicatedaction. Continued idling with the

    warning light/message on couldcause irreversible damage to theDPF requiring repair and possiblereplacement that might not becovered by the vehicle warranty.

    You will also notice a change in theexhaust sound and engine idlespeed. This is normal. See  Vehicle

    Messages 0 

     22 .If you continue to drive with the DPFwarning message on and theexhaust filter is not cleaned asrequired, the malfunction indicator lamp and the ENGINE POWER ISREDUCED message will come onand dealer service is necessary.See  Malfunction Indicator Lamp

    (Check Engine Light) 0 

     18  andEngine Power Messages  0  22 .

    Vehicles with DPF have specific fueland engine oil requirements. SeeWhat Fuel to Use in The U.S.  0  48 or  What Fuel to Use in Canada and Mexico  0  51  and  Engine Oil  0  92  for more information on those

    requirements.Extended idling in P (Park) cancause exhaust parts and gases tobecome very hot. Keep the exhaustarea clear of material that couldignite or burn. See Parking over Things That Burn  0  37 .

    If equipped with a Power Take-Off (PTO), monitor the instrument

    cluster for lights related to the DPF.

    See  Accessories and Modifications0  85   for important information if youare considering adding accessoriesor modifying the vehicle.

    Diesel Exhaust Fluid

    { Warning

    Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is

    corrosive. Do not allow it to come

    in contact with your skin, eyes,or the finished surfaces of thevehicle. If exposed, it may causeskin and eye irritation. Wear skinand eye protection whenhandling. Inhalation may causeirritation to the upper respiratorytract. For more safety and storag

    information, see the label of the

    Diesel Exhaust Fluid container.

    DEF is used with diesel engines toreduce the amount of regulatedemissions produced. The fluid levin the DEF tank must be maintainfor the vehicle to run correctly. Incold conditions it is normal for DEto freeze. For DEF tank capacitysee  Capacities and Specifications  0  126 .

    40 Driving and Operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    41/132

    Locating Diesel Exhaust Fluid

    DEF can be purchased at aChevrolet or GMC dealer. It canalso be purchased at authorizedvehicle and truck dealerships. Additionally, some diesel truck

    fueling stations or retailers mayhave DEF for purchase. For vehicles with an active OnStar subscription, OnStar can help tolocate a DEF retailer. See“Customer Assistance Offices”   inthe owner manual for phonenumbers to assist in contacting aGM dealer. See  Recommended 

    Fluids and Lubricants 0 

     121.Filling the DEF Tank

    Caution

    Use only DEF that is GM

    approved, or fluid containing the API certified or ISO 22241 label.The use of other fluids could

    damage the system, requiringcostly repairs that will not becovered by the vehicle warranty.

    It is recommended to fill the DEFtank. For DEF tank capacity seeCapacities and Specifications  0  126 .

    Do not overfill the DEF tank. Whenfluid reaches the top of the fill pipe,stop filling.

    If you spill DEF on the vehicle whilefilling the tank, rinse the area withwater and wipe the surface with adamp cloth.

    DEF Fill - Van Model Shown,

    4-Cylinder Pickups Similar 

    For vans and 4-cylinder pickups, theDEF fill is behind the fuel fill door.The DEF cap is blue, and the dieselcap is green.

    The fill tube location for chassis-caband cutaway vans finished by anupfitter will vary. Check the upfitter manual.

    DEF Fill - 8-Cylinder Pickups

    For 8 –Cylinder pickups, the DEF fillis under the hood, on the passenger side, at the back of the enginecompartment. The DEF cap is blue.

    In certain cold conditions, it ispossible to find some frozen DEF inthe DEF fill pipe opening. If this

    condition prevents the filling of aDEF tank, place the vehicle in awarm garage overnight.

    Driving and Operating

    E h Fl id L If h DIC l hil Sil d /Si /Si D li

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    42/132

    Exhaust Fluid Low 

     A full DEF tank will last for severalthousand kilometers (miles),depending on vehicle usage. As theDEF level drops, warnings willautomatically be displayed in the

    DIC. DEF level status is availableon the DIC under the vehicleInformation button. See   “ExhaustFluid Level”  in  Driver InformationCenter (DIC)  0  21.

    To avoid vehicle speed limitations,the DEF tank should be refilled atthe first opportunity after a lowwarning indication. If DEF is added

    before the EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW messageappears, it may take several km/mifor the DIC message to update.

    If the vehicle speed has beenlimited and DEF has been added, itmay take up to 30 seconds after engine start with the vehiclestopped for the EXHAUST FLUID

    EMPTY REFILL NOW message toclear. If the vehicle is driven prior tothe DIC message clearing, thevehicle speed will still be limited.

    If the DIC message clears whiledriving, the speed limitation will beremoved gradually.

    If DEF is added under freezingconditions, additional time may berequired to remove speed limitations

    and may require less fluid to fill theDEF tank.

    The following actions describestrategies required by the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) and the California Air Resource Board (CARB). The DEFmessages relate to these strategies.

    The EXHAUST FLUID RANGEmessage first displays atapproximately 1600 km (1000 mi).This message appears again atapproximately 500 km (300 mi) of remaining range before the exhaustfluid tank becomes empty.

    See the following list for approximate remaining volumewhen 1600 km (1000 mi) warningappears:

    .   Colorado/Canyon - 3.8 L(1.0 gal)

    .   Silverado/Sierra/Sierra Denali 5.7 L (1.5 gal)

    .   Express/Savana - 5.7 L (1.5 ga

    Below 500 km (300 mi) of rangeremaining, these messages willappear every time the vehicle isstarted.

    If these warnings are ignored andthe DEF tank becomes empty, theDIC message displays:

    .   EXHAUST FLUID EMPTYREFILL NOW - 644 KM (400 MUNTIL 105 KM/H (65 MPH) MASPEED.

    .   For emergency vans with RPOYF2 or emergency pickups witRPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW - 998 K(620 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

    The displayed mileage will decreaas driving continues. A warning ligalso comes on.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message EXHAUSTFLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.

    42 Driving and Operating

    A i li ht d hi l A fl hi i li ht d hi (4 MPH) di l A fl hi

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    43/132

     A warning light and a chime alsocome on. Vehicle speed will bereduced to a maximum speed limitof 105 km/h (65 mph).

     After the transition to 105 km/h(65 mph) is complete, the DIC

    message displays:.   EXHAUST FLUID EMPTY

    REFILL NOW - SPEED LIMITEDTO 105 KM/H (65 MPH)   –120 KM (75 MI) UNTIL 89 KM/H(55 MPH) MAX SPEED.

    .   For emergency vans with RPOYF2 or emergency pickups withRPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUIDEMPTY REFILL NOW - SPEEDLIMITED TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH)   – 933 KM (580 MI)UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAXSPEED.

    The displayed mileage will decreaseas driving continues. A warning lightand a chime also come on.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message EXHAUSTFLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H(55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.

     A flashing warning light and a chimealso come on. Vehicle speed will bereduced to a maximum speed limitof 89 km/h (55 mph).

     After the transition to 89 km/h(55 mph) is complete, the DIC

    message EXHAUST FLUID EMPTYREFILL NOW - SPEED LIMITEDTO 89 KM/H (55 MPH)   – 120 KM(75 MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H (4 MPH) MAXSPEED displays. The displayedmileage will decrease as drivingcontinues. A flashing warning lightand a chime also come on.

    When the mileage countdown is

    zero, the DIC message EXHAUSTFLUID EMPTY REFILL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 7 KM/H(4 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A flashing warning light and a chimealso come on. Vehicle speed will bereduced to a maximum speed limitof 7 km/h (4 mph).

     After the transition to 7 km/h (4 mph)

    is complete, the DIC messageEXHAUST FLUID EMPTY REFILLNOW - SPEED LIMITED TO 7 KM/H

    (4 MPH) displays. A flashingwarning light and a chime alsocome on.

    It is recommended to fill the DEFtank. At least 7.6 L (2 gals) of DEFneed to be added to release the

    vehicle from the speed limitation.See  Capacities and Specifications 0  126 .

    See  Diesel Exhaust Fluid Messages0  23 ,  Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)Warning Light  0  20 , andRecommended Fluids and Lubricants 0  121.

    Exhaust Fluid Quality Poor 

    Use only DEF that is GM approved,or fluid containing the API certifiedor ISO 22241 label.

    DEF has an expiration date. If thesystem detects poor quality,or contaminated or diluted DEF, theDIC message displays:

    .   EXHAUST FLUID QUALITYPOOR - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW   – 160 KM(99 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

    Driving and Operating

    . For emergency vans with RPO . EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY After the transition to 89 km/h

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    44/132

    .   For emergency vans with RPOYF2 or emergency pickups withRPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUIDQUALITY POOR - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW   –998 KM (620 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/ H (65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

    The displayed mileage will decreaseas driving continues. A warning lightalso comes on. Adding fresh DEF tothe system may resolve theproblem, depending on severalfactors. If the DIC message persists,see your dealer or additional DICmessages may display.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, a DIC message EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A warning light and a chime alsocome on. Vehicle speed will bereduced to a maximum speed limitof 105 km/h (65 mph).

     After the transition to 105 km/h(65 mph) is complete, the DICmessage displays:

    .   EXHAUST FLUID QUALITYPOOR - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW - SPEEDLIMITED TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH)   – 120 KM (75 MI)UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAXSPEED.

    .   For emergency vans with RPOYF2 or emergency pickups withRPO ANM, EXHAUST FLUIDQUALITY POOR - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -SPEED LIMITED TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH)   – 933 KM (580 MI)UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAXSPEED.

    The displayed mileage will decreaseas driving continues. A warning lightand a chime also come on.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H

    (55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A flashing warning light and a chimealso come on. Vehicle speed will bereduced to a maximum speed limitof 89 km/h (55 mph).

     After the transition to 89 km/h(55 mph) is complete, a DICmessage EXHAUST FLUIDQUALITY POOR - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITEDTO 89 KM/H (55 MPH)   – 120 KM(75 MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H (4 MPH) MASPEED displays. The displayedmileage will decrease as drivingcontinues. A flashing warning lighand a chime also come on.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, a DIC message EXHAUSTFLUID QUALITY POOR - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 7 KM/H(4 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A flashing warning light and a chimalso come on. Vehicle speed will breduced to a maximum speed limiof 7 km/h (4 mph).

     After the transition to 7 km/h (4 mpis complete, a DIC messageEXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POO- SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW SPEED LIMITED TO 7 KM/H(4 MPH) displays. A flashingwarning light and a chime alsocome on.

    44 Driving and Operating

    Service Exhaust Fluid System TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H When the mileage countdown is

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    45/132

    Service Exhaust Fluid System

    If a problem occurs with the DEFsystem, the DIC message displays:

    .   SERVICE EXHAUST FLUIDSYSTEM - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW  –  160 KM(99 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

    .   For emergency vans with RPOYF2 or emergency pickups withRPO ANM, SERVICE EXHAUSTFLUID SYSTEM - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW   –998 KM (620 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/ H (65 MPH) MAX SPEED.

    The displayed mileage will decreaseas driving continues. A warning lightalso comes on. In some cases thismessage will clear itself, indicatingthat the DEF system was able tocorrect the condition. If the DICmessage persists, see your dealer or additional DIC messages maydisplay.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message SERVICEEXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -

    TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A warning light and a chime alsocome on. Vehicle speed will bereduced to a maximum speed limitof 105 km/h (65 mph).

     After the transition to 105 km/h(65 mph) is complete, a DICmessage displays:

    .   SERVICE EXHAUST FLUIDSYSTEM - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW - SPEEDLIMITED TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH)   – 120 KM (75 MI)UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX

    SPEED..   For emergency vans with RPO

    YF2 or emergency pickups withRPO ANM, SERVICE EXHAUSTFLUID SYSTEM - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -SPEED LIMITED TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH)   – 933 KM (580 MI)UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH) MAX

    SPEED.The displayed mileage will decreaseas driving continues. A warning lightand a chime also come on.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message SERVICEEXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H(55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A flashing warning light and a chimealso come on. Vehicle speed will bereduced down to a maximum speedlimit of 89 km/h (55 mph).

     After the transition to 89 km/h(55 mph) is complete, the DICmessage SERVICE EXHAUSTFLUID SYSTEM - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITEDTO 89 KM/H (55 MPH)   – 120 KM(75 MI) UNTIL 7 KM/H (4 MPH) MAXSPEED displays. The displayedmileage will decrease as drivingcontinues. A flashing warning lightand a chime also come on.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message SERVICEEXHAUST FLUID SYSTEM - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 7 KM/H(4 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A flashing warning light and a chime

    Driving and Operating

    also come on Vehicle speed will be If the DIC message persists see (55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    46/132

    also come on. Vehicle speed will bereduced to a maximum speed limitof 7 km/h (4 mph).

     After the transition to 7 km/h (4 mph)is complete, the DIC messageSERVICE EXHAUST FLUID

    SYSTEM - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITEDTO 7 KM/H (4 MPH) displays. A flashing warning light and a chimealso come on.

    Service Emission System

    These restrictions are not applicableto emergency vans with RPO YF2or emergency pickups withRPO ANM.

    If a problem occurs with the vehicleemission system, the DIC messageSERVICE EMISSION SYSTEM -SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW   –282 KM (175 MI) UNTIL 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays.The displayed mileage will decreaseas driving continues. In some casesthis message will clear itself,indicating that the emission systemwas able to correct the condition.

    If the DIC message persists, seeyour dealer or additional DICmessages may display.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message SERVICEEMISSION SYSTEM - SEE

    OWNERS MANUAL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 105 KM/H(65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A chime also comes on. Vehiclespeed will be reduced to amaximum speed limit of 105 km/h(65 mph).

     After the transition to 105 km/h(65 mph) is complete, the DIC

    message SERVICE EMISSIONSYSTEM - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITEDTO 105 KM/H (65 MPH)  –  120 KM(75 MI) UNTIL 89 KM/H (55 MPH)MAX SPEED displays. Thedisplayed mileage will decrease asdriving continues. A chime alsocomes on.

    When the mileage countdown iszero, the DIC message SERVICEEMISSION SYSTEM - SEEOWNERS MANUAL NOW -TRANSITIONING TO 89 KM/H

    (55 MPH) MAX SPEED displays. A chime also comes on. Vehiclespeed will be reduced to amaximum speed limit of 89 km/h(55 mph).

     After the transition to 89 km/h

    (55 mph) is complete, the DICmessage SERVICE EMISSIONSYSTEM - SEE OWNERSMANUAL NOW - SPEED LIMITEDTO 89 KM/H (55 MPH) displays. A chime also comes on.

    46 Driving and Operating

    Brakes For 8-cylinder pickups the Driver

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    47/132

    Brakes

    Exhaust Brake

    Diesel pickups have an exhaustbrake to enhance the vehicle brake

    system and reduce brakelining wear.

    8-Cylinder Pickups

    4-Cylinder Pickups

    To activate the system, press theswitch below the climate controls inthe center stack. For 8-cylinder pickups use the exhaust brakeswitch. For 4-cylinder pickups theexhaust brake is activated whenTow/Haul Mode is activated. See“Tow/Haul Mode”  in the owner manual. The switch must bepressed at each vehicle start for thesystem to be active. A light in theswitch (8-cylinder pickups) will comeon when the exhaust brake isactivated, or in the instrumentcluster (4-cylinder pickups) when

    the exhaust brake and Tow/Haul areactivated.

    For 8 cylinder pickups, the Driver Information Center (DIC) displaysthe message EXHAUST BRAKE ONfor approximately 10 seconds, thenclears.

    To turn the brake off, press the

    exhaust brake switch a second time.For 8-cylinder pickups, the DICdisplays the message EXHAUSTBRAKE OFF for approximately10 seconds, then clears.

    Downshifts may be automaticallyselected to increase engine speed,which increases the effectiveness of the exhaust brake. The number of 

    downshifts selected is determinedby the length of time the brakes areapplied and the rate the vehicle isslowing. The system delivers thecorrect amount of braking to assistin vehicle control. The heavier thevehicle load, the more active theengine exhaust brake will be. Use of the exhaust brake will help maintainvehicle speed when used withcruise control. See   “Cruise Control”in the owner manual.

    Driving and Operating

    Automatic downshifts will not occur Fuel

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    48/132

     Automatic downshifts will not occur if the vehicle is in Range SelectionMode. See   “Manual Mode”  in theowner manual.

    The exhaust brake only activateswhen the transmission torque

    converter is locked. This can varybased on vehicle speed, gear, andload. For 8-cylinder pickups, theexhaust brake will be more activewhen in Tow/Haul Mode.

    Fuel

    Fuel for Diesel Engines

    This vehicle is approved to usediesel fuel with no more than 15

    ppm sulfur content and biodiesel upto 20% by volume. Both diesel andbiodiesel blends must meet all therequirements as defined in the mostcurrent versions of the local fuelstandards. Please see therecommended fuels for individualcountries, as described in thefollowing sections.

    Caution

    Engine damage may occur andthe damage would not be coveredby the warranty if:

    .   Gasoline is added to thefuel tank. Gasoline shouldnever be added to thefuel tank.

    (Continued)

    Caution (Continued)

    .   Diesel fuel has been mixedwith engine oil, vegetableoil, or automatictransmission fluid.

    .   Marine diesel fuel; fuel oilsdiesel fuels that are entirelyor partially plant based,such as rape seed oil or bio-diesel; Aquazole® ; or similar diesel-water emulsions are used.

    .   Diesel fuel or fuel additivesthat are not recommendedare used.

    .   Aftermarket diesel fueladditives, particularly thosethat contain alcohol or wateemulsifiers, are used.Consult your dealer beforeusing a fuel additive.

    Some conditions, such as dirty fuemay decrease fuel filter life and aCHANGE FUEL FILTER messagemay come on in the Driver Information Center (DIC).

    48 Driving and Operating

    What Fuel to Use in appropriate seasonal blend. If in

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    49/132

    What Fuel to Use inThe U.S.

    Use only diesel fuel with ultra lowsulfur content (15 ppm, maximum).Look for dispensers with this label.

    Use diesel fuel that meets ASTMspecification D 975, Grades No. 2-Dor No. 1-D S15, also known as UltraLow Sulfur Diesel. Contact a fuelsuppler for any questions.

    Caution

    Use of diesel fuel other than Ultra

    Low Sulfur Diesel (15 ppm sulfur maximum) will cause damage to

    the exhaust after-treatment

    system. This damage would notbe covered by the vehiclewarranty. Do not use marine,locomotive, or boiler distillate fuelsince it may contain higher sulfur levels.

    Diesel Fuel Grades

    For best results use No. 2-D dieselfuel year-round because it isblended for seasonal temperaturedifferences, both above and belowfreezing conditions. No. 1-D dieselfuel can be used in very coldtemperatures (below -18 °C or 0 °F);however, it will reduce power andfuel economy. Avoid using No. 1-Ddiesel fuel in warm or hot climates.It can result in stalling, poor startingwhen the engine is hot, and damageto the fuel injection system. Thefuels industry usually willautomatically modify the fuel for the

    appropriate seasonal blend. If indoubt, please confirm with your local fuel supplier.

    Premium Diesel Fuel

    Premium Diesel Fuel (FQP-1A)corresponding to the EngineManufacturers Association (EMA)Recommended Guideline mayprovide less noise, better starting,and better vehicle performance, butis not required.

    Biodiesel

    Biodiesel is a renewable fuelproduced from vegetable oils or 

    animal fats that have beenchemically modified for normalperformance.

    Caution

    Do not use home-made biodieselor home test kits because thequality cannot be verified by

    approved scientific methods. Donot use raw vegetable oil or other unmodified bio-oils, fats,

    (Continued)

    Driving and Operating

    C ti (C ti d) C ti (C ti d)

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    50/132

    Caution (Continued)

    or blends of vegetable oil with

    diesel. They could damage thefuel system and engine, and

    damages would not be covered

    by the vehicle warranty.

    Biodiesel blends

    Use biodiesel blends that meet the ASTM specification D6751.

    .   Retail pumps dispensing blendscontaining up to 5% biodiesel(B5) are not required to be

    labeled with the concentration of biodiesel. Blends up to B5 mustmeet ASTM D975 (Grades No.2-D or No. 1-D S15 Ultra LowSulfur Diesel).

    Caution

    Do not use blends containing

    more than 20% biodiesel. Anyengine, fuel system, or exhaust

    (Continued)

    Caution (Continued)

    after-treatment system damage

    would not be covered by thevehicle warranty.

    Pumps dispensing more than5% and up to 20% biodiesel arerequired to be labeled with theconcentration of biodiesel. Whenrefueling with a biodiesel blendabove B5, one of the followinglabels should appear on thedispenser:

    .   Blends containing more than 5and up to 20% biodiesel mustmeet ASTM specification D746(Biodiesel blend, B6 - B20).Biodiesel quality can vary wideTo reduce the risk of poor qua

    50 Driving and Operating

    fuel, purchase biodiesel blends avoid the use of biodiesel biodiesel blends. If the operating

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    51/132

    from a BQ-9000 certifiedmarketer. See www.bq-9000.orgfor a list of certified marketers.

     As a renewable fuel, biodieselprovides some environmental

    benefits. However, biodiesel hasunique properties and needs to behandled differently than diesel fuel.Its use presents additional risks andmay not be appropriate in allsituations. Certain vehicle operatingmodes increase these risks andshould be avoided. Read further todetermine if your driving habits arecompatible with the use of biodiesel.

    .   Biodiesel fuel quality degradeswith time and exposure to hightemperature quicker than UltraLow Sulfur Diesel fuel. Morefrequent refueling provides thebest opportunity to have asupply of fresh fuel. Storage athot ambient temperatures willaccelerate biodieseldegradation.

    Owners who use very little fuel,or who have vehicles stored for extended periods of time, should

    blended fuels above 5% byvolume. When vehicles arestored for longer than onemonth, they should be run out of biodiesel to below one-quarter tank, refueled with Ultra LowSulfur Diesel fuel, and drivenseveral miles before storage.

    .   At temperatures below 32 °F (0 °C), it is recommended to switchto Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuelwith no biodiesel content, or toblends with biodiesel containingless than 5% by volume. Atthese extreme coldtemperatures, biodiesel blendshigher than 5% by volume maycause fuel filter plugging andsystem gelling, which can leadto vehicle operability problems.

    Fuels improperly blended for cold temperature operation mayresult in restricted fuel filters anddegraded vehicle performance.The vehicle is equipped with afuel heating system to provide alevel of protection against filter plugging from gelling or waxingof conventional diesel fuel and

    gtemperature is far below thetemperature at which gelling or waxing of the fuel occurs, thesystem will not prevent all casesof filter plugging.

    .

      Vehicles operated for extendedperiods of time on Ultra LowSulfur Diesel fuel and thenswitched to biodiesel blendsmay experience premature fuelfilter clogging and require morefrequent fuel filter service.

    With long-term use of Ultra LowSulfur Diesel fuel, gum and

    varnish may be deposited withinthe tank and fuel system. Thesedeposits, while not problematicwith the use of Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuel, may becomeloosened with a sudden switchto biodiesel blends and causefuel filter plugging.

    If the vehicle experiences a fuel

    filter restriction, the on-boardmonitoring system will alert thedriver that the fuel filter requires

    Driving and Operating

    service. The fuel filter, however, Accidental Refueling with What Fuel to Use in Canada

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    52/132

    will not prevent all damagecaused by poor quality biodiesel.

    Refueling

    Diesel fuel can foam when filling thetank. This can cause the automaticpump nozzle to shut off, even if thetank is not full. If this happens, waitfor the foaming to stop, and then fillthe tank more slowly. See  Filling theTank  0  62 .

    { Warning

    Heat coming from the engine can

    cause the fuel to expand andforce the fuel out of the tank.If something ignites the fuel, a firecould start. To help avoid this, fillthe tank slowly and only until thenozzle shuts off. Do not top it off.Clean up any spilled fuel.

    Gasoline

    Caution

    If the vehicle is accidentally

    refueled with gasoline, do notcontinue driving the vehicleexcept to get to a location whereit can be stopped safely. Drivingthe vehicle will damage the fuelsystem. Have the vehicle towedto a qualified technician to havethe gasoline removed from thetank, preferably until the fuelgauge reads near E (Empty).

    Refuel with Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuel.

    What Fuel to Use inCanada and Mexico

    Use only diesel fuel with ultra lowsulfur content (15 ppm maximum).

    Use diesel fuel that meets CAN/ CGSB-3.517 specification inCanada. Contact a fuel supplier foquestions about fuel.

    Caution

    Use of diesel fuel other than Ultr

    Low Sulfur Diesel (15 ppm sulfurmaximum) will cause damage to

    the exhaust after-treatmentsystem. This damage would notbe covered by the vehiclewarranty. Do not use marine,

    locomotive, or boiler distillate fuesince it may contain higher sulfurlevels.

    Diesel Fuel Types

    Fuels are blended for seasonalchanges. Diesel Type A fuel isblended to ensure vehicles operatin extreme cold temperatures. Thifuel, however, may cause somepower and fuel economy losses.Diesel Type B fuel is blended for higher temperatures experiencedduring most of the year. Avoid usi

    52 Driving and Operating

    Diesel Type A fuel in warm or hotli t D i lt i Caution (Continued) { Warning

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    53/132

    climates. Doing so can result installing, poor starting when theengine is hot, and damage to thefuel injection system.

    Premium Diesel Fuel

    If available, premium diesel fuel(FQP-1A) corresponding to theEngine Manufacturers Association(EMA) Recommended Guidelinecould provide better starting andvehicle performance with less noise.

    Biodiesel

    Biodiesel is a renewable fuel

    produced from vegetable oils or animal fats that have beenchemically modified for normalengine performance.

    Caution

    Do not use home-made biodieselor home test kits because the

    quality cannot be verified byapproved scientific methods. Donot use raw vegetable oil or other 

    (Continued)

    Caution (Continued)

    unmodified bio-oils, fats,

    or blends of vegetable oil withdiesel. They could damage the

    fuel system and engine, and

    damages would not be coveredby the vehicle warranty.

    Biodiesel Blends

    Biodiesel blends that meet the CAN/ CGSB-3.522 specifications up to20% (B20) can be used. Avoid theuse of biodiesel blends above 20%,

    as they may damage the engineand fuel system. For detailedinformation on the use of biodiesel,see  What Fuel to Use in TheU.S.  0  48 .

    Refueling

    Diesel fuel can foam when filling thetank. This can cause the automaticpump nozzle to shut off, even if the

    tank is not full. If this happens, waitfor the foaming to stop, and then fillthe tank more slowly. See  Filling theTank  0  62 .

    { Warning

    Heat coming from the engine can

    cause the fuel to expand andforce the fuel out of the tank.

    If something ignites the fuel, a fire

    could start. To help avoid this, fillthe tank slowly and only until thenozzle shuts off. Do not top it off.Clean up any spilled fuel.

    Accidental Refueling withGasoline

    CautionIf the vehicle is accidentallyrefueled with gasoline, do notcontinue driving the vehicleexcept to get to a location whereit can be stopped safely. Drivingthe vehicle will damage the fuel

    system. Have the vehicle towedto a qualified technician to have

    the gasoline removed from thetank, preferably until the fuel

    (Continued)

    Driving and Operating

    Caution (Continued)move the vehicle to a warm garage

    d ll th filt t { Warning

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    54/132

    Caution (Continued)

    gauge reads near E (Empty).

    Refuel with Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuel.

    What Fuel to Use in Mexico

    Use diesel fuel specificationNOM-086 Pemex UBA, which meetsthe Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuelrequirement of 15 ppm sulfur maximum. This fuel is not availablein all regions of Mexico.

    Caution

    Use of diesel fuel other than UltraLow Sulfur Diesel (15 ppm sulfur maximum) will damage theexhaust after-treatment system.This damage would not becovered by the vehicle warranty.

    Cold Weather OperationIn cold weather, the fuel filter maybecome clogged by wax naturallypresent in the fuel. To unclog it,

    area and allow the filter to warm up.The fuel filter may need to bereplaced. See  Fuel Filter Replacement  0  58 .

     At temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F),

    it is recommended to avoid usingbiodiesel blends above (5% blend)which may cause fuel filter plugging,system gelling, and freezing thatmay affect vehicle starting.

    It is recommended to use Ultra LowSulfur No. 1-D diesel fuel or a blendof No. 1-D and No. 2-D diesel fuel toenhance vehicle operation in cold

    weather at temperatures below (0 °C(32 °F). Use of No. 1-D diesel fuelmay lower the fuel economy.

    Water in Fuel

    Improper fuel tank inspection or cleaning, or contaminated fuel fromsuppliers, can cause water to bepumped into the fuel tank along with

    the diesel fuel. If a WATER IN FUELmessage displays, the water mustbe drained immediately.

    { Warning

    Diesel fuel containing water is st

    combustible. You or others couldbe burned. If the fuel needs to be

    drained, keep sparks, flames, an

    smoking materials away from themixture.

    Caution

    Water in the diesel fuel cancorrode internal components of the fuel system and lead to

    severe damage. It can alsosupport fungus or bacteriagrowth, which can damage thefuel system and fuel operatedheater (FOH) (if equipped). Even

    with a diesel fuel biocide, the fuesystem may still need to be

    cleaned. Your dealer can adviseof the appropriate solution.

    (Continue

    54 Driving and Operating

    Caution (Continued) Recommended Recommended

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    55/132

    Caution (Continued)

    If the fuel tank needs to be

    purged to remove water, see your dealer or a qualified technician.

    Improper purging can damage the

    fuel system and block the FOH.

    Water in Fuel Troubleshooting

    If the WATER IN FUEL SERVICEREQUIRED message comes on:

    Problem Action

    Messagedisplays andstays on.

    Drain the fuelfilter immediately.If no water can

    be drained, andthe temperatureis belowfreezing, thenwater may befrozen in thefilter. Move thevehicle to awarm location to

    thaw, then drainthe fuel. If stillno water drains,see your dealer.

    Problem Action

    Immediatelyafter refueling,messagedisplays and

    stays on.

     A large amountof water is in thefuel tank. Drainthe fuel filter 

    immediately.If the messagestays on,or comes backon again withoutrefueling, fueltank purging isrequired. Seeyour dealer.

    If the messagedisplays and thevehicle stalls or has roughriding, do notdrive until thewater contaminatedfuel is drained.

    Driving and Operating

    Caution

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    56/132

    Caution

    Driving with this message on can

    damage the fuel injection systemand the engine. If the message

    comes on right after a refuel,

    water was pumped into the fueltank. Turn off the engine anddrain the water immediately.

    Removing Water from FuelFilter 

    To drain water:

    1. Turn the engine off and apply

    the parking brake.

    8-Cylinder Pickup

    4-Cylinder Pickup

    Van

    2. Place a container under thefilter drain valve. The filter dr

    valve is on the bottom of thefuel filter. For 8-cylinder pickumodels, the filter drain valve on the passenger side of theengine compartment. For 4-cylinder pickup and vanmodels, the filter drain valve under the vehicle on the driveside, inside the frame rail.

    3. For 8-cylinder pickup modelsopen the drain valve by turninit two to three turns. Pump thprimer until fuel empties from

    56 Driving and Operating

    the valve and all of the water has been drained Close the

    .   The vehicle ran out of fuel. 3. Check that the fuel lines areproperly connected

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    57/132

    has been drained. Close thevalve hand tight.

    For 4-cylinder pickup and vanmodels, open the fuel filter drain valve by turning it two to

    three turns. Allow the filter todrain until all of the water hasbeen removed. Close the valvehand tight.

    4. Properly dispose of the water contaminated fuel.

    5. Start the engine and let it runfor a few minutes. During thedraining process, air may have

    entered the fuel system. If theengine stalls, the fuel systemmay need to be primed. See“Fuel Priming”  following.

    Fuel Priming

    For the fuel system to work properly,the fuel lines must be full of fuel.If air gets in, the fuel lines need to

    be primed before operating thevehicle and the fuel operatedheater (FOH).

    If air is present, the following mayhave happened:

    .   The fuel filter was removed.

    .   The fuel lines were removed or disconnected.

    .   The fuel filter water drain valvewas opened while the enginewas running.

    .   The FOH pump and FOH fuellines were removed or disconnected.

    The system is not harmed by air inthe fuel lines; however, the engineand/or the FOH may not start untilthe fuel system is primed and the air 

    is removed.

    To Prime 8-Cylinder PickupModels

    The priming pump is part of theengine fuel filter and will bring fuelto the engine to eliminate air in thefuel lines. To prime the engine:

    1. Correct any condition that

    caused the loss of prime.2. Check that the fuel filter is

    installed and properlytightened, and cool enough totouch.

    properly connected.

    4. Remove any dirt from the fuelfilter head and vent valve.

    5. Locate the fuel filter vent valveon top of the fuel filter housing.Turn the valve screwcounterclockwise several fullturns to open.

    Driving and Operating

    engine to idle for a few minutesafter it starts Check the filter

    6. If the engine starts, but doesnot run smoothly increase th

  • 8/16/2019 2016 Gmc Duramax Diesel Manual

    58/132

    6. Locate the fuel filter primingpump on top of the fuel filter housing. Push down and let itreturn up several times.

    7. Continue priming the pumpuntil a small amount of fuelcomes from the vent valve.This indicates the filter is full of fuel and the system should beprimed.

    8. Close the vent valve. Cleanany fuel off the fuel filter. Try tostart the engine. If the enginestalls, operate the primingpump several times in betweenstarting attempts. Allow the

    after it starts. Check the filter for leaks.

    To Prime 4-Cylinder Pickup andVan Models

    There is an electric priming pump

    that will bring fuel to the engine andeliminate air in the fuel lines. Toprime the engine:

    1. Correct any condition thatcaused the loss of prime.

    2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN for 30 seconds. Do not start theengine. The fuel pump will start

    priming.3. Turn the ignition off, then back

    to start, and crank the enginefor 15 seconds.

    4. If the engine does not start,repeat Steps 2 and 3 until theengine starts.

    If the engine does not startafter repeating Steps 2 and 3three times, turn the ignitionkey off for 60 seconds.

    5. Repeat the above steps untilthe engine starts.

    not run smoothly, increase thengine speed sli