2008 GMC Canyon Owner's Manual

2008 GMC Canyon owners manual
Year:
2008
Make:
GMC
Model:
Canyon
Rating:
(7)

Online manual

Size:
5.82 MB

Table of Contents

2008 GMC Canyon BookTOC
1
Seats and Restraint Systems
5
Front Seats
6
Manual Seats
6
Power Seats
7
Manual Lumbar
7
Power Lumbar
8
Heated Seats
8
Reclining Seatbacks
9
Head Restraints
11
Seatback Latches
12
Rear Seats
13
Rear Seat Operation (Extended Cab)
13
Rear Seat Operation (Crew Cab)
14
Safety Belts
16
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone
16
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
21
Lap-Shoulder Belt
29
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
35
Lap Belt
35
Safety Belt Extender
36
Child Restraints
37
Older Children
37
Infants and Young Children
40
Child Restraint Systems
43
Where to Put the Restraint
46
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
47
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position
58
Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position
60
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
60
Airbag System
64
Where Are the Airbags?
67
When Should an Airbag Inflate?
69
What Makes an Airbag Inflate?
71
How Does an Airbag Restrain?
71
What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates?
72
Passenger Sensing System
73
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
78
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
78
Restraint System Check
79
Checking the Restraint Systems
79
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash
80
Features and Controls
81
Keys
83
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
84
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation
85
Doors and Locks
87
Door Locks
87
Power Door Locks
88
Programmable Automatic Door Locks
88
Rear Door Security Locks (Crew Cab)
89
Lockout Protection
89
Rear Doors (Extended Cab)
89
Tailgate
90
Windows
92
Manual Windows
92
Power Windows
93
Sliding Rear Window
94
Sun Visors
94
Theft-Deterrent Systems
95
Content Theft-Deterrent
95
Passlock® (U. S. Only)
96
97
Operation (Canada Only)
97
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
99
New Vehicle Break-In
99
Ignition Positions
99
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
101
Starting the Engine
101
Engine Coolant Heater
102
Automatic Transmission Operation
103
Manual Transmission Operation
106
Four-Wheel Drive
108
Parking Brake
112
Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission)
114
Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission)
116
Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission)
117
Parking Over Things That Burn
117
Engine Exhaust
117
Running the Engine While Parked
118
Mirrors
119
Manual Rearview Mirror
119
Manual Rearview Mirror with OnStar®
119
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
120
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with OnStar®, Compass and Temperature Display
120
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass and Temperature Display
123
Outside Manual Mirrors
125
Outside Power Mirrors
126
Outside Convex Mirror
126
OnStar® System
127
Storage Areas
130
Glove Box
130
Cupholder(s)
130
Center Console Storage
130
Assist Handles
131
Rear Storage Area
131
Sunroof
132
Instrument Panel
133
Instrument Panel Overview
136
Hazard Warning Flashers
138
Other Warning Devices
138
Horn
138
Tilt Wheel
139
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
139
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
140
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
140
Flash-to-Pass
141
Windshield Wipers
141
Windshield Washer
142
Cruise Control
142
Exterior Lamps
145
Headlamps on Reminder
146
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
146
Automatic Headlamp System
147
Fog Lamps
148
Exterior Cargo Lamps
148
Interior Lamps
148
Instrument Panel Brightness
149
Dome Lamp
149
Dome Lamp Override
149
Exit Lighting
149
Electric Power Management
150
Battery Run-Down Protection
150
Accessory Power Outlet(s)
150
Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter
151
Climate Controls
152
Climate Control System
152
Outlet Adjustment
154
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
155
Instrument Panel Cluster
156
Speedometer and Odometer
157
Trip Odometer
157
Tachometer
157
Safety Belt Reminders
158
Airbag Readiness Light
159
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
160
Charging System Light
162
Up-Shift Light
162
Brake System Warning Light
163
Antilock Brake System Warning Light
164
Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light
164
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
165
Tire Pressure Light
165
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
166
Oil Pressure Light
168
Security Light
169
Cruise Control Light
169
Highbeam On Light
169
Fuel Gage
170
Driver Information Center (DIC)
170
DIC Operation and Displays
170
DIC Warnings and Messages
174
Audio System(s)
178
Setting the Time
179
Radio(s)
180
Using an MP3
196
XM Radio Messages
200
Theft-Deterrent Feature
201
Radio Reception
201
Fixed Mast Antenna
202
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System
202
Chime Level Adjustment
202
Driving Your Vehicle
203
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle
204
Defensive Driving
204
Drunk Driving
204
Control of a Vehicle
205
Braking
205
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
206
Braking in Emergencies
207
Traction Control System (TCS)
207
Limited-Slip Rear Axle
208
Steering
209
Off-Road Recovery
211
Passing
211
Loss of Control
211
Off-Road Driving
213
Driving at Night
226
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
226
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
227
Highway Hypnosis
227
Hill and Mountain Roads
228
Winter Driving
229
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow
232
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out
232
Recovery Hooks
233
Loading Your Vehicle
234
Truck-Camper Loading Information
240
Pickup Conversion to Chassis Cab
240
Towing
240
Towing Your Vehicle
240
Recreational Vehicle Towing
240
Towing a Trailer
246
Trailer Recommendations
259
Service and Appearance Care
261
Service
263
Accessories and Modifications
263
California Proposition 65 Warning
263
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements
264
Doing Your Own Service Work
264
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle
265
Fuel
265
Gasoline Octane
265
Gasoline Specifications
265
California Fuel
266
Additives
266
Fuels in Foreign Countries
267
Filling the Tank
268
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
270
Checking Things Under the Hood
270
Hood Release
271
Engine Compartment Overview
272
Engine Oil
275
Engine Oil Life System
278
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
279
Automatic Transmission Fluid
281
Manual Transmission Fluid
283
Hydraulic Clutch
284
Engine Coolant
286
Radiator Pressure Cap
289
Engine Overheating
289
Cooling System
291
Engine Fan Noise
296
Power Steering Fluid
296
Windshield Washer Fluid
297
Brakes
298
Battery
301
Jump Starting
302
Rear Axle
306
Four-Wheel Drive
307
Front Axle
308
Headlamp Aiming
309
Bulb Replacement
309
Halogen Bulbs
309
Headlamps
310
Front Turn Signal, Parking and Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
311
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL)
311
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps
312
License Plate Lamp
313
Replacement Bulbs
313
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
314
Tires
316
Tire Sidewall Labeling
317
Tire Terminology and Definitions
319
Inflation - Tire Pressure
322
High-Speed Operation
324
Tire Pressure Monitor System
325
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation
326
Tire Inspection and Rotation
330
When It Is Time for New Tires
331
Buying New Tires
332
Different Size Tires and Wheels
334
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
334
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
336
Wheel Replacement
336
Tire Chains
338
If a Tire Goes Flat
339
Changing a Flat Tire
340
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
341
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
344
Secondary Latch System
351
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools
354
Spare Tire
358
Appearance Care
359
Interior Cleaning
359
Fabric/Carpet
361
Leather
362
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces
362
Care of Safety Belts
363
Weatherstrips
363
Washing Your Vehicle
363
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
364
Finish Care
364
Windshield and Wiper Blades
365
Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels and Trim
366
Tires
367
Sheet Metal Damage
367
Finish Damage
367
Underbody Maintenance
367
Chemical Paint Spotting
367
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
368
Vehicle Identification
369
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
369
Service Parts Identification Label
369
Electrical System
370
Add-On Electrical Equipment
370
Windshield Wiper Fuses
370
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
370
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
371
Capacities and Specifications
376
Capacities and Specifications
376
Maintenance Schedule
379
Maintenance Schedule
380
Introduction
380
Maintenance Requirements
380
Your Vehicle and the Environment
380
Using the Maintenance Schedule
380
Scheduled Maintenance
382
Additional Required Services
384
Maintenance Footnotes
385
Owner Checks and Services
386
At Each Fuel Fill
387
At Least Once a Month
387
At Least Once a Year
388
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
390
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
392
Engine Drive Belt Routing
393
Maintenance Record
394
Customer Assistance Information
397
Customer Assistance and Information
398
Customer Satisfaction Procedure
398
Online Owner Center
400
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users
401
Customer Assistance Offices
401
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program
402
Roadside Assistance Program
403
Scheduling Service Appointments
405
Courtesy Transportation
405
Collision Damage Repair
407
Reporting Safety Defects
410
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government
410
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government
410
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
410
Service Publications Ordering Information
411
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy
412
Event Data Recorders
412
OnStar®
413
Navigation System
413
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
413
Index
415

2008 GMC Canyon Overview

Introduction

The 2008 GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup truck that presents an ideal fusion of rugged capability, modern features, and versatile design. Designed to excel both in urban environments and off-road adventures, the Canyon offers a smooth ride with a refined interior, catering to drivers who appreciate practicality without compromising comfort. With its striking looks and functional body style, this model aims to meet the needs of everyday use while underscoring an adventurous spirit.

Powertrains

The 2008 GMC Canyon provides a variety of powertrains to cater to different preferences and needs. The base engine is a 2.9-liter four-cylinder, producing 185 horsepower, efficient for everyday driving and light hauling. For those requiring additional power, an upgraded 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder engine offers a robust 242 horsepower, making it suitable for tougher terrains and heavier loads. Both engines are paired with either a five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission, maximizing driving enjoyment and efficiency.

Trims

This model year features several trims, including the base work Truck, SLE, and SLT. The Work Truck focuses heavily on functionality, with essential features like air conditioning and a basic audio system. The SLE expands on this by adding more comfort and convenience, including power windows, keyless entry, and upgraded audio options. The top-tier SLT trim emphasizes luxury, featuring leather seats, alloy wheels, and chrome accents, perfect for those who seek an elevated driving experience.

Features

The 2008 GMC Canyon is equipped with a range of modern amenities, including a user-friendly infotainment system, optional navigation, and available Bluetooth connectivity. Safety features such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, and multiple airbags ensure peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. This blend of utility and technology makes the Canyon a practical choice for daily commuting, family outings, or weekend adventures.

Owner's Manual

The owner's manual for the 2008 GMC Canyon is an invaluable resource, offering comprehensive guidelines on vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting tips. It includes detailed information on the recommended service intervals, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Additionally, the manual helps owners familiarize themselves with the vehicle’s features, enhancing their overall driving experience.

User manual download

The GMC Canyon owner manual for the 2008 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2008 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.

Posted by, John Mana author bio image
A passionate guy about car models, makes, and manuals.

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