Factors such as maintenance, temperatures, driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions affect the wear rate of the tires.
Treadwear indicators are one way to tell when it is time for new tires.
Treadwear indicators appear when the tires have only 1.6mm (1/16 in) or less of tread remaining. See Tire Inspection on page 10-48 and Tire Rotation on page 10-48.
The rubber in tires ages over time.
This also applies to the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, even if it is never used. Multiple factors including temperatures, loading conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance affect how fast aging takes place. GM recommends that tires, including the spare if equipped, be replaced after six years, regardless of tread wear. The tire manufacture date is the last four digits of the DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) which is molded into one side of the tire sidewall. The first two digits represent the week (01–52) and the last two digits, the year. For example, the third week of the year 2010 would have a four-digit DOT date of 0310.
Vehicle Storage
Tires age when stored normally mounted on a parked vehicle. Park a vehicle that will be stored for at least a month in a cool, dry, clean area away from direct sunlight to slow aging. This area should be free of grease, gasoline, or other substances that can deteriorate rubber.
Parking for an extended period can cause flat spots on the tires that may result in vibrations while driving. When storing a vehicle for at least a month, remove the tires or raise the vehicle to reduce the weight from the tires.
Charging System Light
This light will come on briefly
when the ignition is turned on, and the engine is not running, as a check to show
it is working.
It should go out when the engine is started. If it stays on, or comes on while
driving, there may be a problem with the electrical charging system. Have it checked ...
Finish Care
Application of aftermarket clearcoat sealant/wax materials is not recommended.
If painted surfaces are damaged, see your dealer to have the damage assessed and
repaired. Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting
agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, ...
Cruise Control Light
For vehicles with cruise control,
the cruise control light is white when the cruise control is on and ready, and turns
green when the cruise control is set and active.
The light turns off when the cruise control is turned off. See Cruise Control
on page 9-30.
Door Ajar Light
This light come ...