2012 Chevrolet Colorado Owner's Manual

2012 Chevrolet Colorado owners manual
Year:
2012
Make:
Chevrolet
Model:
Colorado
Rating:
(9)

Online manual

Size:
5.26 MB

Table of Contents

2012 Chevrolet Colorado Owner Manual BookTOC
1
Introduction
1
Introduction
3
Canadian Vehicle Owners
3
Using this Manual
4
Danger, Warnings, and Cautions
4
Symbols
4
In Brief
7
Instrument Panel
8
Initial Drive Information
9
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
10
Door Locks
10
Tailgate
11
Windows
12
Seat Adjustment
13
Heated Seats
14
Head Restraint Adjustment
14
Safety Belts
14
Passenger Sensing System
15
Mirror Adjustment
15
Steering Wheel Adjustment
17
Interior Lighting
17
Exterior Lighting
18
Windshield Wiper/Washer
18
Climate Controls
19
Four-Wheel Drive
20
Vehicle Features
21
Radio(s)
21
Satellite Radio
22
Cruise Control
22
Driver Information Center (DIC)
23
Power Outlets
23
Performance and Maintenance
23
Traction Control System (TCS)
23
StabiliTrak® System
24
Tire Pressure Monitor
24
Engine Oil Life System
24
Driving for Better Fuel Economy
25
Roadside Assistance Program
25
OnStar®
26
Keys, Doors, and Windows
29
Keys and Locks
30
Keys
30
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
30
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation
31
Door Locks
33
Power Door Locks
34
Automatic Door Locks
34
Lockout Protection
34
Safety Locks (Crew Cab)
34
Doors
35
Rear Doors
35
Tailgate
36
Vehicle Security
38
Anti-theft Alarm System
38
Immobilizer
39
Canada Only)
39
Immobilizer Operation (Passlock U.S. Only)
41
Exterior Mirrors
41
Convex Mirrors
41
Manual Mirrors
42
Power Mirrors
42
Interior Mirrors
43
Manual Rearview Mirror
43
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
43
Windows
44
Manual Windows
45
Power Windows
45
Rear Windows
47
Sun Visors
47
Seats and Restraints
49
Head Restraints
50
Front Seats
51
Seat Adjustment
51
Power Seat Adjustment
51
Lumbar Adjustment
52
Reclining Seatbacks
52
Seatback Latches
54
Heated Front Seats
55
Rear Seats
56
Rear Seats (Extended Cab)
56
Rear Seats (Crew Cab)
57
Safety Belts
59
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
60
Lap-Shoulder Belt
61
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
66
Lap Belt
66
Safety Belt Extender
67
Safety System Check
67
Safety Belt Care
67
Replacing Safety Belt System Parts after a Crash
68
Airbag System
68
Where Are the Airbags?
70
When Should an Airbag Inflate?
72
What Makes an Airbag Inflate?
73
How Does an Airbag Restrain?
73
What Will You See after an Airbag Inflates?
74
Passenger Sensing System
75
Servicing the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
80
Adding Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
81
Airbag System Check
82
Replacing Airbag System Parts after a Crash
82
Child Restraints
83
Older Children
83
Infants and Young Children
85
Child Restraint Systems
87
Where to Put the Restraint
89
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System)
91
Replacing LATCH System Parts After a Crash
102
Securing Child Restraints (Rear Seat Position)
102
Securing Child Restraints (Center Front Seat Position)
105
Securing Child Restraints (Right Front Seat Position)
107
Storage
111
Storage Compartments
111
Glove Box
111
Cupholders
111
Rear Storage
112
Center Console Storage
112
Instruments and Controls
113
Controls
114
Steering Wheel Adjustment
114
Horn
114
Windshield Wiper/Washer
114
Compass
115
Clock
116
Power Outlets
117
Cigarette Lighter
117
Ashtrays
118
Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators
118
Chime Level Adjustment
118
Instrument Cluster
119
Speedometer
120
Odometer
120
Trip Odometer
120
Tachometer
120
Fuel Gauge
120
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge
121
Safety Belt Reminders
121
Airbag Readiness Light
122
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
123
Charging System Light
124
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
125
Brake System Warning Light
127
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
128
StabiliTrak® OFF Light
129
Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light
129
Tire Pressure Light
130
Engine Oil Pressure Light
130
Security Light
131
High-Beam On Light
131
Cruise Control Light
131
Information Displays
132
Driver Information Center (DIC)
132
Vehicle Messages
135
Battery Voltage and Charging Messages
135
Brake System Messages
135
Door Ajar Messages
136
Engine Cooling System Messages
136
Engine Oil Messages
136
Engine Power Messages
137
Fuel System Messages
137
Lamp Messages
137
Ride Control System Messages
138
Service Vehicle Messages
138
Tire Messages
139
Transmission Messages
139
Lighting
141
Exterior Lighting
141
Exterior Lamp Controls
141
Exterior Lamps Off Reminder
142
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
142
Flash-to-Pass
142
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
143
Automatic Headlamp System
143
Hazard Warning Flashers
144
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
144
Fog Lamps
145
Exterior Cargo Lamps
145
Interior Lighting
146
Instrument Panel Illumination Control
146
Dome Lamps
146
Lighting Features
147
Exit Lighting
147
Battery Load Management
147
Battery Power Protection
147
Infotainment System
149
Introduction
149
Infotainment
149
Theft-Deterrent Feature
150
Operation
151
Radio
155
AM-FM Radio
155
Satellite Radio
159
Radio Reception
161
Fixed Mast Antenna
162
Satellite Radio Antenna
162
Audio Players
163
CD Player
163
Phone
169
Bluetooth
169
Climate Controls
179
Climate Control Systems
179
Air Vents
181
Driving and Operating
183
Driving Information
184
Distracted Driving
184
Defensive Driving
185
Drunk Driving
185
Control of a Vehicle
185
Braking
186
Steering
186
Off-Road Recovery
187
Loss of Control
187
Off-Road Driving
188
Driving on Wet Roads
194
Highway Hypnosis
195
Hill and Mountain Roads
196
Winter Driving
197
If the Vehicle Is Stuck
199
Vehicle Load Limits
201
Truck-Camper Loading Information
207
Starting and Operating
208
New Vehicle Break-In
208
Ignition Positions
208
Starting the Engine
210
Engine Heater
212
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
213
Shifting Into Park (Automatic Transmission)
213
Shifting out of Park (Automatic Transmission)
214
Parking (Manual Transmission)
215
Parking over Things That Burn
216
Engine Exhaust
216
Running the Vehicle While Parked
217
Automatic Transmission
218
Manual Transmission
220
Drive Systems
222
Four-Wheel Drive
222
Brakes
226
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
226
Parking Brake
227
Brake Assist
228
Ride Control Systems
229
Traction Control System (TCS)
229
StabiliTrak® System
230
Limited-Slip Rear Axle
232
Cruise Control
232
Fuel
235
Recommended Fuel
235
Gasoline Specifications (U.S. and Canada Only)
235
California Fuel Requirements
235
Fuels in Foreign Countries
236
Fuel Additives
236
Filling the Tank
237
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
239
Towing
239
General Towing Information
239
Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips
240
Trailer Towing
244
Towing Equipment
248
Conversions and Add-Ons
249
Add-On Electrical Equipment
249
Pickup Conversion to Chassis Cab
249
Vehicle Care
251
General Information
252
California Proposition 65 Warning
253
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements
253
Accessories and Modifications
254
Vehicle Checks
254
Doing Your Own Service Work
254
Hood
255
Engine Compartment Overview
256
Engine Oil
260
Engine Oil Life System
262
Automatic Transmission Fluid
263
Manual Transmission Fluid
266
Hydraulic Clutch
267
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
267
Cooling System
268
Engine Coolant
269
Engine Overheating
273
Engine Fan
275
Power Steering Fluid
275
Washer Fluid
276
Brakes
277
Brake Fluid
278
Battery
280
Four-Wheel Drive
280
Front Axle
281
Rear Axle
282
Starter Switch Check
282
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check
283
Ignition Transmission Lock Check
283
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
284
Wiper Blade Replacement
284
Headlamp Aiming
286
Bulb Replacement
286
Halogen Bulbs
286
Headlamps
287
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps, and Back-Up Lamps
287
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL)
288
License Plate Lamp
289
Replacement Bulbs
289
Electrical System
290
Electrical System Overload
290
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
290
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
291
Wheels and Tires
297
Tires
297
Tire Sidewall Labeling
298
Tire Designations
300
Tire Terminology and Definitions
301
Tire Pressure
304
Tire Pressure for High-Speed Operation
305
Tire Pressure Monitor System
306
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation
307
Tire Inspection
310
Tire Rotation
310
When It Is Time for New Tires
312
Buying New Tires
312
Different Size Tires and Wheels
314
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
315
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
316
Wheel Replacement
317
Tire Chains
318
If a Tire Goes Flat
319
Tire Changing
321
Secondary Latch System
332
Compact Spare Tire
335
Full-Size Spare Tire
336
Jump Starting
337
Towing
341
Towing the Vehicle
341
Recreational Vehicle Towing
341
Appearance Care
346
Exterior Care
346
Interior Care
349
Floor Mats
352
Service and Maintenance
353
General Information
353
Maintenance Schedule
355
Special Application Services
360
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
364
Maintenance Replacement Parts
367
Maintenance Records
368
Technical Data
371
Vehicle Identification
371
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
371
Service Parts Identification Label
371
Vehicle Data
372
Capacities and Specifications
372
Engine Drive Belt Routing
374
Customer Information
375
Customer Information
375
Customer Satisfaction Procedure (U.S. and Canada)
375
Customer Satisfaction Procedure (Mexico)
378
Customer Assistance Offices (U.S. and Canada)
379
Customer Assistance Offices (Mexico)
379
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users (U.S. and Canada)
380
Online Owner Center
380
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program (U.S. and Canada)
381
Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada)
382
Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico)
384
Scheduling Service Appointments (U.S. and Canada)
387
Courtesy Transportation Program (U.S. and Canada)
388
Collision Damage Repair (U.S. and Canada)
389
Service Publications Ordering Information
392
Reporting Safety Defects
393
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government
393
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government
393
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
394
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy
394
Event Data Recorders
394
OnStar®
395
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
396
Radio Frequency Statement
396
Index
397
Index_A
397
Index_B
398
Index_C
398
Index_D
399
Index_E
400
Index_F
400
Index_G
401
Index_H
401
Index_I
402
Index_J
402
Index_K
402
Index_L
402
Index_M
403
Index_N
403
Index_O
403
Index_P
404
Index_R
404
Index_S
405
Index_T
406
Index_U
407
Index_V
407
Index_W
408
Untitled
1

2012 Chevrolet Colorado Overview

Introduction

The 2012 Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize pickup truck that delivers both style and performance, perfectly blending rugged capability with refined comfort. With its sturdy chassis and versatile design, the Colorado is ideal for both work and play, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking reliability without compromising on modern amenities.

Powertrains

The 2012 Colorado comes equipped with a choice of two robust powertrains that cater to various driving experiences. The standard engine is a 2.9-liter inline-four producing 185 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, providing sufficient power for most everyday needs. For those requiring more performance, the available 3.7-liter inline-five engine ramps up the output to 242 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque, ensuring spirited acceleration and enhanced towing capabilities. Both powertrains are paired with a five-speed manual transmission, while an optional four-speed automatic is also available for seamless gear shifts.

Trims

The Colorado is offered in multiple trims, including the base Work Truck (WT), LT, and the more luxurious LTZ. Each trim level builds upon the last, delivering increasing levels of comfort and sophistication. The WT is tailored for utility and budget-conscious buyers, while the LT adds desirable features such as chrome accents and an upgraded sound system. The LTZ takes it a step further with leather seating and advanced technology, making it perfect for those who want a touch of luxury in their daily drive.

Features

Standard and optional features for the 2012 Colorado include a simple-to-use infotainment system, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and available features like Bluetooth connectivity and navigation for an enhanced driving experience. Moreover, safety is prioritized with standard features such as stability control and multiple airbags, providing peace of mind for both the driver and passengers.

Owner's Manual

The 2012 Chevrolet Colorado owner's manual is an invaluable resource for new owners, detailing essential information about vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting. It serves as a comprehensive guide to maximizing your Colorado's performance and longevity, ensuring you fully understand your vehicle's capabilities and features. Familiarizing yourself with the manual can enhance your driving experience, allowing you to enjoy the Colorado's outstanding versatility to the fullest.

User manual download

The Chevrolet Colorado owner manual for the 2012 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2012 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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