This document provides an overview of features for the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban. It discusses the instrument panel, initial drive information such as remote keyless entry and remote vehicle start, door locks, liftgate, safety belts, mirror adjustment, steering wheel adjustment, pedal adjustment, interior and exterior lighting controls, climate controls, transmission, four-wheel drive, cruise control, navigation system, blind zone alert, rear vision camera, parking assist, power outlets, and universal remote system. It also briefly discusses the StabiliTrak stability control system and maintaining proper tire pressure.
4. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (4,1)
iv Introduction
Using this Manual Symbols
{ WARNING
To quickly locate information about The vehicle has components and
the vehicle, use the Index in the These mean there is something labels that use symbols instead of
back of the manual. It is an that could hurt you or other text. Symbols are shown along with
alphabetical list of what is in the people. the text describing the operation or
manual and the page number where information relating to a specific
it can be found. component, control, message,
Notice: This means there is
gauge, or indicator.
something that could result in
Danger, Warnings, and property or vehicle damage. This M : This symbol is shown when
Cautions would not be covered by the you need to see your owner manual
vehicle's warranty. for additional instructions or
Warning messages found on vehicle
information.
labels and in this manual describe
hazards and what to do to avoid or * : This symbol is shown when
reduce them. you need to see a service manual
for additional instructions or
Danger indicates a hazard with a
information.
high level of risk which will result in
serious injury or death.
Warning or Caution indicates a A circle with a slash through it is a
hazard that could result in injury or safety symbol which means “Do
death. Not,” “Do not do this,” or “Do not let
this happen.”
5. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (5,1)
Introduction v
Vehicle Symbol Chart + : Fuses
Here are some additional symbols 3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam
that may be found on the vehicle Changer
and what they mean. For more
information on the symbol, refer to (: Heated Steering Wheel
the Index. j: LATCH System Child
0 : Adjustable Pedals Restraints
9 : Airbag Readiness Light * : Malfunction Indicator Lamp
# : Air Conditioning : : Oil Pressure
! : Antilock Brake System (ABS) g : Outside Power Foldaway
Mirrors
% : Audio Steering Wheel Controls
or OnStar® O : Power
$ : Brake System Warning Light / : Remote Vehicle Start
" : Charging System > : Safety Belt Reminders
I : Cruise Control 7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
B : Engine Coolant Temperature _ : Tow/Haul Mode
O : Exterior Lamps d : Traction Control/StabiliTrak®
# : Fog Lamps M : Windshield Washer Fluid
. : Fuel Gauge
8. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (2,1)
1-2 In Brief
Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel Overview
English Version Shown; Metric Similar
9. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (3,1)
In Brief 1-3
A. Air Vents on page 8‑13. I. Exterior Lamp Controls on O. Cruise Control on page 9‑52.
B. Turn and Lane‐Change Lever. page 6‑1. P. Steering Wheel Adjustment on
See Turn and Lane-Change J. Dome Lamps on page 6‑8. page 5‑2.
Signals on page 6‑5. Instrument Panel Illumination Q. Horn on page 5‑5.
Windshield Wiper/Washer on Control on page 6‑7. R. Steering Wheel Controls on
page 5‑5. Fog Lamps on page 6‑6 page 5‑3.
Rear Window Wiper/Washer on (If Equipped). S. Climate Control Systems on
page 5‑6. K. Hood Release. See Hood on page 8‑1 (If Equipped).
C. Instrument Cluster on page 10‑5. Dual Automatic Climate Control
page 5‑12. L. Integrated Trailer Brake System on page 8‑4
D. Hazard Warning Flashers on Controller (If Equipped). See (If Equipped).
page 6‑5 (Out of View). Towing Equipment on T. Power Outlets on page 5‑9.
E. Shift Lever. See Automatic page 9‑79.
U. StabiliTrak® System on
Transmission on page 9‑32. M. Data Link Connector (DLC) page 9‑47 (If Equipped).
F. Manual Mode on page 9‑35 (Out of View). See Malfunction
Indicator Lamp on page 5‑20. Pedal Adjust Button
(If Equipped). (If Equipped). See Adjustable
Tow/Haul Mode on page 9‑36 N. Automatic Transfer Case Throttle and Brake Pedal on
(If Equipped). Control (If Equipped). See page 9‑22.
Four-Wheel Drive (Single
G. Driver Information Center (DIC) Speed Automatic Transfer Ultrasonic Parking Assist on
Buttons. See Driver Information Case) on page 9‑42 or page 9‑54 (If Equipped).
Center (DIC) on page 5‑28. Four-Wheel Drive (Two Speed Power Assist Steps on
H. Infotainment on page 7‑1. Automatic Transfer Case) on page 2‑14 (If Equipped).
page 9‑37.
10. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (4,1)
1-4 In Brief
Initial Drive L : Press and release to locate
the vehicle.
Information
Press L and hold for more than
This section provides a brief
two seconds to sound the panic
overview about some of the
alarm.
important features that may or may
not be on your specific vehicle. Press L again to cancel the panic
For more detailed information, refer alarm.
to each of the features which can be See Keys on page 2‑2 and Remote
found later in this owner manual. Keyless Entry (RKE) System on
page 2‑3.
Remote Keyless Entry RKE Transmitter with Remote
(RKE) System Start and Power Liftgate/Liftglass Remote Vehicle Start
The RKE transmitter is used to K: Press to unlock the driver door. With this feature the engine can be
remotely lock and unlock the doors Press K again within three seconds started from outside of the vehicle.
from up to 60 m (195 ft) away from to unlock all remaining doors.
the vehicle.
Starting the Vehicle
Q: Press to lock all doors. 1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the
Lock and unlock feedback can be vehicle.
personalized. See Vehicle
Personalization (With DIC Buttons)
2. Press and release Q.
on page 5‑47. 3. Immediately after completing
m: Press and hold to unlock the Step 2, press and hold / until
liftglass. the turn signal lamps flash.
8 : Press and hold to open or
close the power liftgate.
11. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (5,1)
In Brief 1-5
When the vehicle starts, the parking Door Locks
lamps will turn on and remain on as
long as the engine is running. The There are several ways to lock and
doors will be locked and the climate unlock the vehicle.
control system may come on. From outside, use the Remote
The engine will continue to run for Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or
10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a the key in the driver door.
10-minute time extension. Remote From inside, use the power door
start can be extended only once. locks or the manual door locks. To
lock or unlock the door with the
Canceling a Remote Start
manual locks, push down or pull up
To cancel a remote start: on the manual lock knob.
Power Folding Mirrors Shown,
. Aim the RKE transmitter at the Power Door Locks Other Models Similar
vehicle and press and hold /
until the parking lamps turn off. Press Q or K on the RKE Q: Press to lock the doors.
transmitter. See Remote Keyless K: Press to unlock the doors.
. Turn on the hazard warning Entry (RKE) System Operation on
flashers. page 2‑3. See Door Locks on page 2‑8.
. Turn the ignition on and then
back off.
See Remote Vehicle Start on
page 2‑6.
12. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (6,1)
1-6 In Brief
Liftgate Manual Liftgate Operation There are several ways to open and
close the power liftgate:
To unlock the liftgate, press " on
the power door lock switch or press . Press and hold 8 on the
" on the Remote Keyless Entry RKEtransmitter until the liftgate
(RKE) transmittertwice, see Remote starts moving.
Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation on page 2‑3.
. Press 8 on the overhead
console.
Press the touch pad on the
underside of the liftgate handle (B) . Press l on the bottom of the
and lift up. liftgate next to the latch to close.
Use the pull cup to lower and close Pressing a second time while the
the liftgate. Do not press the touch liftgate is moving reverses the
pad while closing the liftgate. This direction.
The liftglass or liftgate cannot be will cause the liftgate to be To disable the power liftgate
opened if the rear wiper is in motion. unlatched. function, press OFFon the liftgate
Attempting to open the liftglass or Power Liftgate Operation switch, see Liftgate on page 2‑10.
liftgate while the rear wiper is in
motion will cause the release of the On vehicles with a power liftgate, Liftglass
liftglass or liftgate to delay until the the switch is on the overhead If equipped, there are two ways to
wipers are parked off the liftglass. console. open the liftglass:
The vehicle must be in P (Park) to . Press the button on the
use the power feature. The taillamps underside of the license plate
will flash and a chime will sound applique (A).
when the power liftgate moves.
. Press m on the
RKEtransmitter.
13. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (7,1)
In Brief 1-7
Windows For more information, see: 3. Try to move the seat back and
. Windows on page 2‑23. forth to be sure the seat is
locked in place.
. Power Windows on page 2‑24.
See Seat Adjustment on page 3‑3.
Seat Adjustment Power Seats
Manual Seats
Power Folding Mirrors Shown,
Other Models Similar
The driver door has switches that
control all windows, the passengers
door switch only control that
window. The power windows work To adjust a power seat, if equipped:
when the ignition is in ON/RUN or
ACC/ACCESSORY, or in Retained To adjust the seat: . Move the seat forward or
Accessory Power (RAP). See rearward by sliding the control
1. Lift the bar to unlock the seat. forward or rearward.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
on page 9‑27 for more information. 2. Slide the seat to the desired
position and release the bar.
Press the switch to lower the
window. Pull the switch up to
raise it.
14. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (8,1)
1-8 In Brief
. If available, raise or lower the Lumbar Adjustment Power Lumbar
front or rear part of the seat
cushion by moving the front or Manual Lumbar
rear of the control up or down.
. If available, raise or lower the
entire seat by moving the entire
control up or down.
See Power Seat Adjustment on
page 3‑4.
To adjust the power lumbar support,
if equipped:
If equipped, increase or decrease . On vehicles with two-way
manual lumbar support by turning
lumbar, press and hold the top
the knob forward or rearward.
or bottom of the control to
See Lumbar Adjustment on increase or decrease lumbar
page 3‑5. support.
15. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (9,1)
In Brief 1-9
. On vehicles with four-way Reclining Seatbacks To return the seatback to the upright
lumbar, press and hold the front position:
or rear of the control to increase Manual Reclining Seatbacks
or decrease lumbar support. To 1. Lift the lever fully without
raise or lower the height of the applying pressure to the
support, press and hold the top seatback, and the seatback will
or bottom of the control. return to the upright position.
See Lumbar Adjustment on 2. Push and pull on the seatback to
page 3‑5. make sure it is locked.
See Reclining Seatbacks on
page 3‑6.
To recline a manual seatback:
1. Lift the lever.
2. Move the seatback to the
desired position, and then
release the lever to lock the
seatback in place.
3. Push and pull on the seatback to
make sure it is locked.
16. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (10,1)
1-10 In Brief
Power Reclining Seatbacks Memory Features Storing Memory Positions
To save into memory:
1. Adjust the driver seat and
seatback recliner, both outside
mirrors, and the throttle and
brake pedals, if equipped.
See Power Mirrors on page 2‑19
and Adjustable Throttle and
Brake Pedal on page 9‑22.
Not all mirrors and adjustable
throttle and brake pedals will
have the ability to save and
recall their positions.
To adjust a power seatback,
if equipped: On vehicles with the memory 2. Press and hold “1” until
feature, the controls on the driver two beeps sound.
. Tilt the top of the control door are used to program and recall
rearward to recline. memory settings for the driver seat, 3. Repeat for a second driver
outside mirrors, and the adjustable position using “2.”
. Tilt the top of the control forward
to raise. throttle and brake pedals,
if equipped.
See Reclining Seatbacks on
page 3‑6.
17. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (11,1)
In Brief 1-11
To recall, press and release “1” or Second Row Seats Heated and Ventilated
“2.” The vehicle must be in P (Park).
A single beep will sound. The seat, On vehicles with a 60/40 split bench Seats
outside mirrors, and adjustable or buckets seats, the seatbacks can
throttle and brake pedals, be folded for additional cargo space,
if equipped, will move to the position or the seats can be folded and
previously stored for the identified tumbled for easy entry/exit to the
driver. third row seats, if equipped. On
vehicles with bucket seats, the
See Memory Seats on page 3‑8 and seatbacks also recline.
Vehicle Personalization (With DIC
Buttons) on page 5‑47. See Second Row Seats on
page 3‑12.
Easy Exit Driver Seat
This feature can move the seat Third Row Seats
rearward to allow extra room to exit On vehicles with third row seats, the
the vehicle. Heated and Cooled Seat Buttons
seatbacks can be folded, and the
B: Press to recall the easy exit entire seat can be tumbled or Shown, Heated Seat Buttons
seat position. The vehicle must be removed from the vehicle. Similar
in P (Park). For detailed instructions, see Third If available, the buttons are on the
See Memory Seats on page 3‑8 and Row Seats on page 3‑16. front doors. To operate, the ignition
Vehicle Personalization (With DIC must be in ON/RUN.
Buttons) on page 5‑47. H : If available, press to cool
the seat.
I : Press to heat the
seatback only.
18. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (12,1)
1-12 In Brief
J: Press to heat the seat and Safety Belts Passenger Sensing
seatback. System
Press the button once for the The passenger sensing system,
highest setting. With each press of if equipped, turns off the front
the button, the seat will change to outboard passenger frontal airbag
the next lower setting, and then to under certain conditions. No other
the off setting. The lights indicate airbag is affected by the passenger
three for the highest setting and one sensing system.
for the lowest.
If the vehicle has one of the
See Heated and Ventilated Front indicators pictured in the following
Seats on page 3‑10. illustrations, then the vehicle has a
passenger sensing system for the
Head Restraint right front passenger position.
Adjustment Refer to the following sections for
Do not drive until the head restraints important information on how to use
for all occupants are installed and safety belts properly.
adjusted properly. . Safety Belts on page 3‑20.
To achieve a comfortable seating . How to Wear Safety Belts
position, change the seatback Properly on page 3‑21.
recline angle as little as necessary
while keeping the seat and the head
. Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 3‑22.
restraint height in the proper . Lower Anchors and Tethers for
position. Children (LATCH System) on
See Head Restraints on page 3‑2 page 3‑55.
and Seat Adjustment on page 3‑3.
19. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (13,1)
In Brief 1-13
The passenger airbag status Mirror Adjustment 3. Adjust the outside mirror so that
indicator, if equipped, will be visible the side of the vehicle and the
on the overhead console when the Exterior Mirrors area behind are seen.
vehicle is started. 4. Press either (A) or (B) again to
deselect the mirror.
See Power Mirrors on page 2‑19 for
more information .
To power fold the mirrors:
1. Press (C) to fold the mirrors out
United States to the driving position.
2. Press (D) to fold the mirrors in to
the folded position.
With Power Folding Mirrors
To adjust the mirrors:
Canada and Mexico 1. Press (A) or (B) to select the
See Passenger Sensing System on driver or passenger side mirror.
page 3‑39 for important information. 2. Press one of the four arrows
located on the control pad to
adjust the mirror.
20. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (14,1)
1-14 In Brief
See Power Mirrors on page 2‑19 for Park Tilt Mirrors
more information. If the vehicle has the memory
Keep the selector switch in the package, the exterior mirrors tilt to a
center position when not adjusting preselected position when the
either outside mirror. vehicle is in R (Reverse). This
To manual fold the mirrors: feature lets the driver view the curb
when parallel parking. The mirrors
Fold the mirrors inward to prevent return to the original position when
damage when going through an the vehicle is shifted out of
automatic car wash. To fold, pull the R (Reverse), or the ignition is turned
mirror toward the vehicle. Push the off or to OFF/LOCK.
mirror outward, to return to its
original position. This feature can be programed
With Manual Folding Mirrors
through the Driver Information
To adjust the mirrors: Heated Mirrors Center (DIC). See Vehicle
1. Move the selector switch located Personalization (With DIC Buttons)
Press 1 to heat the mirrors. on page 5‑47 for more information.
above the four-way control pad
to the left or right to choose See “Rear Window Defogger” under Trailer-Tow Mirrors
either the driver side or Dual Automatic Climate Control
passenger side mirror. System on page 8‑4 or Climate For vehicle with towing mirrors, they
Control Systems on page 8‑1 for can be extended for a clearer view
2. Press one of the four arrows more information. of the objects behind the vehicle.
located on the control pad to Manually pull out the mirror head to
move the mirror in the desired extend it for better visibility when
direction. towing a trailer.
3. Adjust the outside mirror so that See Trailer-Tow Mirrors on
the side of the vehicle and the page 2‑19 for more information.
area behind are seen.
21. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (15,1)
In Brief 1-15
Interior Mirror Steering Wheel Do not adjust the steering wheel
while driving.
Adjustment Adjustment
Hold the rearview mirror in the Throttle and Brake Pedal
center and move it to view the area Adjustment
behind the vehicle.
On vehicles with this feature, you
Manual Rearview Mirror can change the position of the
For vehicles with a manual rearview throttle and brake pedals.
mirror, push the tab forward for
daytime use and pull it for nighttime
use to avoid glare from the
headlamps from behind. See
Manual Rearview Mirror on
page 2‑22 for more information.
Automatic Dimming Rearview
Mirror The tilt lever is located on the lower The control used to adjust the
left side of the steering column. pedals is located on the instrument
For vehicles with an automatic panel below the climate control
dimming rearview mirror. The mirror To adjust the steering wheel:
system.
will automatically reduce the glare 1. Hold the steering wheel and pull
from the headlamps from behind. the lever. Press the bottom of the control to
The dimming feature comes on and move the pedals closer to your
2. Move the steering wheel up body. Press the top of the control to
the indicator light illuminates each
or down. move the pedals away.
time the ignition is turned to start.
3. Release the lever to lock the See Adjustable Throttle and Brake
See Automatic Dimming Rearview
wheel in place. Pedal on page 9‑22.
Mirror on page 2‑22 for more
information.
22. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (16,1)
1-16 In Brief
Interior Lighting Dome Lamp Override Reading Lamps
Dome Lamps The dome lamp override button is For vehicles with reading lamps in
located next to the exterior lamps the overhead console, press the
The dome lamps are located in the control. button located next to the lamp to
overhead console. turn it on or off.
They come on when any door is The vehicle may also have reading
opened and turn off after all the lamps in other locations. The lamps
doors are closed. cannot be adjusted.
Turn the instrument panel For more information about interior
brightness knob located below the lamps, see:
dome lamp override button,
clockwise to the farthest position to
. Dome Lamps on page 6‑8.
manually turn on the dome lamps. . Reading Lamps on page 6‑8.
The dome lamps remain on until the . Instrument Panel Illumination
knob is turned counterclockwise. k: Press the button in and the Control on page 6‑7.
dome lamps remain off when a door
is opened. Press the button again to
return it to the extended position so
that the dome lamps come on when
a door is opened.
23. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (17,1)
In Brief 1-17
Exterior Lighting AUTO: Automatically turns on the Windshield Wiper/Washer
headlamps, parking lamps,
taillamps, instrument panel lights,
and license plate lamps.
; : Turns on the parking lamps,
taillamps, instrument panel lights,
and license plate lamps.
5 : Turns on the headlamps,
parking lamps, taillamps, instrument The front wiper control is located on
panel lights, and license plate the turn and lane‐change lever. Turn
lamps. the band with the wiper symbol to
The exterior lamps control is located control the windshield wipers.
on the instrument panel to the left of For more information, see:
the steering wheel. . Exterior Lamp Controls on 8: For a single wipe, turn to 8 ,
page 6‑1. then release. For several wipes,
O : Turns off the automatic
headlamps and Daytime Running hold the band on 8 longer.
. Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
Lamps (DRL). Turn the headlamp on page 6‑3. 9 : Turns the windshield
control to the off position again to wipers off.
turn the automatic headlamps or
. Fog Lamps on page 6‑6.
DRL back on. 6: Turn the band up for more
frequent wipes or down for less
For vehicles first sold in Canada, frequent wipes.
the off position will only work when
the vehicle is shifted into P (Park). 6 : Slow wipes.
? : Fast wipes.
L : Push this paddle to spray
washer fluid on the windshield.
24. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (18,1)
1-18 In Brief
Rear Wiper Window Wiper/Washer Climate Controls
To turn the rear wiper on, slide the The heating, cooling, and ventilation in the vehicle can be controlled with
lever to a wiper position. these systems.
9 : Turns the wiper off. If this vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.
5 : Turns on the rear wiper delay.
Z : Turns on the rear wiper.
= : Press the button on the end of
the lever to spray washer fluid on
the rear window.
See Windshield Wiper/Washer on
page 5‑5 and Rear Window Wiper/
Washer on page 5‑6.
Climate Control System
A. Fan Control F. Driver and Passenger
B. REAR (Rear Climate Control) Temperature Controls
C. Recirculation G. Rear Window Defogger
D. Air Delivery Mode Control See Climate Control Systems on
page 8‑1.
E. Air Conditioning
25. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (19,1)
In Brief 1-19
Transmission
Range Selection Mode
Base Trim Shown (Uplevel Similar)
The Range Selection Mode switch
Dual Automatic Climate Control System is located on the shift lever.
1. To enable the Range Selection
A. Fan Control K. Air Conditioning feature, move the column shift
B. AUTO (Automatic Operation) lever to the M (Manual) position.
L. PASS
The current range will appear
C. Defrost M. Passenger Temperature Control next to the M. This is the highest
D. Recirculation See Dual Automatic Climate Control attainable range with all lower
System on page 8‑4 (If Equipped) . gears accessible. As an
E. REAR (Rear Climate Control) example, when 5 (Fifth) gear is
For vehicles with rear heating and
F. Air Delivery Mode Control air conditioning controls, see Rear selected, 1 (First) through
Climate Control System (Rear 5 (Fifth) gears are available.
G. Driver Temperature Control
Climate with Rear Seat Audio) on
H. Display page 8‑11 or Rear Climate Control
I. Power Button System (Rear Climate Control Only)
on page 8‑10.
J. Rear Window Defogger
26. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (20,1)
1-20 In Brief
2. Press the plus/minus buttons, Four-Wheel Drive
located on the steering column
shift lever, to select the desired If the vehicle has Four-Wheel Drive,
range of gears for current driving you can send the engine's driving
conditions. See Manual Mode on power to all four wheels for extra
page 9‑35. traction.
While using Range Selection Mode, Automatic Transfer Case
cruise control and the Tow/Haul
mode can be used.
Grade Braking is not available when
Range Selection Mode is active.
See Tow/Haul Mode on page 9‑36.
Single Speed Transfer Case
The transfer case knob is located to
the left of the instrument panel
cluster. Use this knob to shift into
and out of the different Four-Wheel
Drive modes.
2 m : This setting is used for driving
Two Speed Transfer Case in most street and highway
situations.
AUTO: This setting is ideal for use
when road surface traction
conditions are variable.
27. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (21,1)
In Brief 1-21
4 m : Use the Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle Features
High position when extra traction is
needed, such as on snowy or icy Radio(s)
roads or in most off-road situations.
4 n : Vehicles with a
two speed transfer case have a
Four-Wheel-Drive Low position. This
setting sends maximum power to all
four wheels. You might choose
Four-Wheel-Drive Low if you are
driving off-road in deep sand, deep
mud, deep snow, and while climbing
or descending steep hills.
N (Neutral): Vehicles with a
two speed transfer case have a
N (Neutral) position. Shift the
transfer case to N (Neutral) only
when towing the vehicle. See
Recreational Vehicle Towing on
page 10‑93 or Towing the Vehicle
on page 10‑93. Radio with USB, CD, and DVD (MP3)
See Four-Wheel Drive (Single
Speed Automatic Transfer Case) on O : Press to turn the system on BAND: Press to choose between
page 9‑42 or Four-Wheel Drive (Two and off. Turn to increase or FM, AM, or XM™, if equipped.
Speed Automatic Transfer Case) on decrease the volume. f: Select radio stations.
page 9‑37.
29. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (23,1)
In Brief 1-23
Satellite Radio Portable Audio Devices Bluetooth®
XM is a satellite radio service based This vehicle has an auxiliary input, For vehicles with a Bluetooth
in the 48 contiguous United States located on the audio faceplate, and system, it allows users with a
and 10 Canadian provinces. a USB port located on the Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone to
XM satellite radio has a wide instrument panel or in the center make and receive hands-free calls
variety of programming and console. External devices such as using the vehicle’s audio system
commercial-free music, coast to iPod®, laptop computers, and controls.
coast, and in digital-quality sound. MP3 players, CD changers, USB The Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone
A fee is required to receive the storage device, etc. can be must be paired with the Bluetooth
XM service. connected to the auxiliary port using system before it can be used in the
a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) input jack or the vehicle. Not all phones will support
For more information, refer to: USB port depending on the audio all functions. For more information,
. www.xmradio.com or call system. visit www.gm.com/bluetooth.
1-800-929-2100 (U.S.) See Auxiliary Devices on page 7‑31 For more information, see Bluetooth
. www.xmradio.ca or call for further information. on page 7‑48.
1-877-438-9677 (Canada)
See Satellite Radio on page 7‑9.
30. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (24,1)
1-24 In Brief
Steering Wheel Controls b / g : Press to silence the vehicle Cruise Control
speakers only. Press again to turn
the sound on. Press and hold longer
than two seconds to interact with
OnStar® or Bluetooth systems,
if equipped.
+e: Press to increase volume.
−e: Press to decrease volume.
SRCE: Press to switch between
the radio and CD, and for equipped
vehicles, the DVD, front auxiliary,
and rear auxiliary.
If equipped, some audio controls ¨ : Press to seek the next radio
can be adjusted at the steering station, the next track or chapter T : Press to turn the system on
wheel. while sourced to the CD or DVD or off. The indicator light is on when
slot, or to select tracks and folders cruise control is on and turns off
w : Press to go to the next favorite on an iPod or USB device. when cruise control is off.
radio station, track on a CD,
or folder on an iPod® or USB For more information, see Steering + RES: Press briefly to make the
device. Wheel Controls on page 5‑3. vehicle resume to a previously set
speed, or press and hold to
c / x : Press to go to the accelerate.
previous favorite radio station, track
on a CD, or folder on an iPod® or SET −: Press to set the speed and
USB device. Press to reject an activate cruise control or make the
incoming call, or to end a call. vehicle decelerate.
31. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (25,1)
In Brief 1-25
[ : Press to disengage cruise Side Blind Zone See Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)
control without erasing the set on page 9‑56 for more information.
Alert (SBZA)
speed from memory.
See Cruise Control on page 9‑52.
If available, this feature will alert you Rear Vision
to vehicles located in the vehicle's Camera (RVC)
side blind zone. When the system
Navigation System detects a vehicle in the side blind If available, the RVC displays a
If the vehicle has a navigation zone, the SBZA display will light up view of the area behind the vehicle
system, there is a separate in the corresponding outside side when the vehicle is shifted into
navigation system manual that mirror. R (Reverse). The display will appear
includes information on the radio, on either the inside rearview mirror
The system is enabled at every
audio players, and navigation or navigation screen, if equipped.
vehicle startup. It can be disabled
system. through the Driver Information To clean the camera lens, located
The navigation system provides Center (DIC). above the license plate, rinse it with
detailed maps of most major water and wipe it with a soft cloth.
If the message SIDE BLIND ZONE
freeways and roads. After a SYSTEM UNAVAILABLE appears See Rear Vision Camera (RVC) on
destination has been set, the on the DIC, the system has been page 9‑59.
system provides turn-by-turn disabled because the sensor is
instructions for reaching the blocked and cannot detect vehicles
destination. In addition, the system in the blind zone. The sensor may
can help locate a variety of points of be blocked by mud, dirt, snow, ice,
interest (POIs), such as banks, slush, or even heavy rainstorms.
airports, restaurants, and more. This message may also activate
See the navigation system manual during heavy rain or due to road
for more information. spray. The vehicle does not need
service.
32. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (26,1)
1-26 In Brief
Ultrasonic Parking Assist Power Outlets Universal Remote System
If available, the Ultrasonic Rear The accessory power outlets can be
Parking Assist (URPA) system uses used to plug in electrical equipment,
sensors on the rear bumper to such as a cell phone or MP3 player.
assist with parking and avoiding There are two under the climate
objects while in R (Reverse). controls, one inside the center floor
It operates at speeds less than console, one on the rear of the
8 km/h (5 mph). URPA uses audible center floor console and one
beeps to provide distance and accessory power outlet in the rear Vehicles with the Universal Remote
system information. cargo area on the passenger side. System will have these buttons
Keep the sensors on the vehicle's located in the headliner.
The accessory power outlets are
rear bumper clean to ensure proper powered, even with the ignition off. This system provides a way to
operation. Continuing to use accessory power replace up to three remote control
See Ultrasonic Parking Assist on outlets while the ignition is in LOCK/ transmitters used to activate
page 9‑54. OFF may cause the vehicle's devices such as garage door
battery to run down. openers, security systems, and
home automation devices.
See Power Outlets on page 5‑9.
Read the instructions completely
before attempting to program the
transmitter. Because of the steps
involved, it may be helpful to have
another person assist with
programming the transmitter.
See Universal Remote System on
page 5‑56.
33. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (27,1)
In Brief 1-27
Sunroof Vent: From the closed position, When the sunroof is opened, an air
press the rear of switch (B) to vent deflector will automatically raise.
the sunroof. The air deflector will retract when
Open/Close: To open the sunroof, the sunroof is closed.
press and hold switch (A) until the The sunroof also has a sunshade
sunroof reaches the desired which can be pulled forward to block
position. Press and hold the front sun rays. The sunshade must be
of switch (A) to close it. opened and closed manually.
Express-Open/Express-Close: If an object is in the path of the
To express-open the sunroof, fully sunroof while it is closing, the
press and release the rear of anti-pinch feature will detect the
switch (A) until the sunroof object and stop the sunroof.
reaches the desired position. To See Sunroof on page 2‑25 for more
express-close the sunroof, fully information.
A. Open or Close press and release the front of
B. Vent switch (A). Press the switch again to
stop it.
On vehicles with a sunroof, the
sunroof only operates when the
ignition is in the ACC/ACCESSORY
or ON/RUN, or when Retained
Accessory Power (RAP) is active.
See Retained Accessory Power
(RAP) on page 9‑27 for more
information.
34. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (28,1)
1-28 In Brief
. To turn off both traction control
Performance and and StabiliTrak, press and hold
shown on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Vehicle Load
Maintenance g until g illuminates and the Limits on page 9‑16. The warning
appropriate DIC message light will remain on until the tire
StabiliTrak® System displays. See Ride Control
System Messages on page 5‑43.
pressure is corrected.
If equipped, the vehicle has a During cooler conditions, the low tire
traction control system that limits
. Press and release g again to pressure warning light may appear
wheel spin and the StabiliTrak turn on both systems. when the vehicle is first started and
system that assists with directional then turn off. This may be an early
For more information, see
control of the vehicle in difficult indicator that the tire pressures are
StabiliTrak® System on page 9‑47.
driving conditions. Both systems getting low and the tires need to be
turn on automatically every time the inflated to the proper pressure.
Tire Pressure Monitor
vehicle is started. The TPMS does not replace normal
This vehicle may have a Tire monthly tire maintenance. It is the
. To turn off traction control, press Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). driver’s responsibility to maintain
and release g on the instrument
correct tire pressures.
panel. The appropriate DIC
message displays. See Ride See Tire Pressure Monitor System
Control System Messages on on page 10‑59.
page 5‑43.
The TPMS warning light alerts you
to a significant loss in pressure of
one of the vehicle's tires. If the
warning light comes on, stop as
soon as possible and inflate the
tires to the recommended pressure
35. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (29,1)
In Brief 1-29
Engine Oil Life System On all vehicles, the Engine Oil Life Driving for Better Fuel
System can be reset as follows:
The engine oil life system calculates Economy
engine oil life based on vehicle use 1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with
the engine off. Driving habits can affect fuel
and, on most vehicles, displays a mileage. Here are some driving tips
DIC message when it is necessary 2. Fully press the accelerator pedal to get the best fuel economy
to change the engine oil and filter. slowly three times within possible.
The oil life system should be reset five seconds.
to 100% only following an oil
. Avoid fast starts and accelerate
3. Display OIL LIFE REMAINING smoothly.
change.
on the DIC. If the display shows
Resetting the Oil Life System 100%, the system is reset.
. Brake gradually and avoid
abrupt stops.
To reset the Engine Oil Life System See Engine Oil Life System on
on most vehicles: page 10‑10.
. Avoid idling the engine for long
periods of time.
1. Display OIL LIFE REMAINING
on the DIC. If the vehicle does Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) . When road and weather
not have DIC buttons, the conditions are appropriate, use
Vehicles that have a FlexFuel badge cruise control.
vehicle must be in P (Park) to and a yellow fuel cap can use either
access this display. unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel . Always follow posted speed
2. Press and hold the SET/RESET containing up to 85% ethanol (E85). limits or drive more slowly when
button on the DIC, or the trip See Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on conditions require.
odometer reset stem if the page 9‑66. For all other vehicles, . Keep vehicle tires properly
vehicle does not have DIC use only the unleaded gasoline inflated.
buttons, for more than described under Recommended
Fuel on page 9‑63.
. Combine several trips into a
five seconds. The oil life will
single trip.
change to 100%.
36. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (30,1)
1-30 In Brief
Replace the vehicle's tires with
OnStar®
.
Roadside Assistance and OnStar
the same TPC Spec number (U.S. and Canada)
molded into the tire's sidewall If equipped, this vehicle has a
near the size. If you have an active OnStar comprehensive, in-vehicle system
subscription, press the Q button that can connect to a live Advisor
. Follow recommended scheduled
and the current GPS location will be for Emergency, Security, Navigation,
maintenance.
sent to an OnStar advisor who will Connection, and Diagnostic
assess your problem, contact Services. See OnStar Overview on
Roadside Assistance Roadside Assistance, and relay page 14‑1.
Program your exact location to get the help
U.S.: 1-800-243-8872 you need.
TTY Users (U.S.): 1-888-889-2438 Online Owner Center
(U.S. and Canada)
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
The Online Owner Center is a
Mexico: 01-800-466-0800 complimentary service that includes
As the owner of a new Chevrolet, online service reminders, vehicle
you are automatically enrolled in the maintenance tips, online owner
Roadside Assistance program. manual, special privileges,
and more.
See Roadside Assistance Program
(U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8 or Sign up today at:
Roadside Assistance Program U.S.: chevrolet.com (click on
(Mexico) on page 13‑10. “Owners,” then “Manage My
Chevrolet/Owners Login”)
Canada: chevroletowner.ca
38. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd - 11/9/11 Black plate (2,1)
2-2 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Keys and Locks See your dealer if a replacement
key or additional key is needed.
Keys Notice: If the keys get locked in
the vehicle, it may have to be
damaged to get them out. Always
{ WARNING carry a spare key.
Leaving children in a vehicle with If you are locked out of the vehicle,
the ignition key is dangerous for call the Roadside Assistance
many reasons. Children or others Center. See Roadside Assistance
could be badly injured or even Program (U.S. and Canada) on
killed. They could operate the page 13‑8 or Roadside Assistance
power windows or other controls Program (Mexico) on page 13‑10.
The key is used for the ignition and
or even make the vehicle move. With an active OnStar subscription,
all door locks.
The windows will function with the an OnStar Advisor may remotely
keys in the ignition and children The key has a bar-coded key tag unlock the vehicle. See OnStar
could be seriously injured or killed that the dealer or qualified locksmith Overview on page 14‑1.
if caught in the path of a closing can use to make new keys. Store
window. Do not leave the keys in this information in a safe place, not
a vehicle with children. in the vehicle.