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EnglishDriving and Operating -> Trailer Towing for your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2018-2025
Driving and Operating
299
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State laws may require the use of
extended side view mirrors. If your
visibility is limited or restricted while
towing, install extended side view mirrors
on your vehicle, even if not required.
Do not tow a trailer during the first
800 km (500 mi) of vehicle use to prevent
damage to the engine, axle, or other
parts.
Perform the first oil change before heavy
towing.
Do not drive over 80 km/h (50 mph) and
do not make starts at full throttle during
the first 800 km (500 mi) of trailer
towing.
Tow in D (Drive). Tow/Haul Mode is
recommended for heavier trailers. See
Tow/Haul Mode 0 230. If the
transmission downshifts too often, a
lower gear may be selected using
Manual Mode. See Manual Mode
(Mechanical Shifter) 0 227 or
Trailer Towing
Warning (Continued)
covered by the vehicle warranty. Pull a
trailer only if all the steps in this section
have been followed. Ask your dealer for
advice and information about towing a
trailer with the vehicle.
General Towing Information
Only use towing equipment that has been
designed for the vehicle. Contact your dealer
or trailering dealer for assistance with
preparing the vehicle to tow a trailer. Read
the entire section before towing a trailer.
Driving with a Trailer
To tow a disabled vehicle, see Transporting
a Disabled Vehicle 0 402. To tow the vehicle
behind another vehicle such as a motor
home, see Recreational Vehicle Towing
0 403.
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Trailering is different than just driving the
vehicle by itself. Trailering affects handling,
acceleration, braking, and durability.
Successful and safe trailering requires proper
use of the correct equipment.
Driving Characteristics and
Towing Tips
The following information has many
time-tested, important trailering tips and
safety rules. Many of these are important
for your safety and that of your passengers.
Read this section carefully before towing a
trailer.
.
Warning
{
You can lose control when towing a
trailer if the correct equipment is not
used or the vehicle is not driven properly.
For example, if the trailer is too heavy or
the trailer brakes are inadequate for the
load, the vehicle may not stop as
expected. You and others could be
seriously injured. The vehicle may also be
damaged, and the repairs would not be
(Continued)
When towing a trailer:
Manual Mode (Electronic Shifter) 0 229.
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Become familiar with, and follow all state
and local laws that apply to trailer
towing. These requirements vary from
state to state.
If equipped, the following driver assistance
features should be turned off when towing
a trailer:
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Park Assist
Automatic Parking Assist (APA)
.
300
Driving and Operating
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Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)
check that the cargo and trailer are secure
and that the lamps and any trailer brakes
are working.
Warning (Continued)
If equipped, the following driver assistance
features should be turned to alert or off
when towing a trailer, unless equipped with
Super Cruise:
.
Adjust the climate control system to a
setting that brings in only outside air.
See “Climate Control Systems” in the
Index.
Towing with a Stability Control System
When towing, the stability control system
might be heard. The system reacts to
vehicle movement caused by the trailer,
which mainly occurs during cornering. This is
normal when towing heavier trailers.
.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Front Pedestrian Braking (FPB)
For more information about carbon
monoxide, see Engine Exhaust 0 220.
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If equipped with Lane Change Alert (LCA),
the LCA detection zones that extend back
from the side of the vehicle do not move
further back when a trailer is towed. Use
caution while changing lanes when towing a
trailer.
Towing a trailer requires experience. The
combination of the vehicle and trailer is
longer and not as responsive as the vehicle
itself. Get used to the handling and braking
of the combination by driving on a level
road surface before driving on public roads.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle
ahead as you would when driving without a
trailer. This can help to avoid heavy braking
and sudden turns.
If equipped, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert
(RCTA) feature is automatically disabled
when a trailer is attached to the vehicle.
The trailer structure, the tires, and the
brakes must all be rated to carry the
intended cargo. Inadequate trailer
Passing
More passing distance is needed when
towing a trailer. The combination of the
vehicle and trailer will not accelerate as
quickly and is much longer than the vehicle
alone. It is necessary to go much farther
beyond the passed vehicle before returning
to the lane. Pass on level roadways. Avoid
passing on hills if possible.
Warning
{
equipment can cause the combination to
operate in an unexpected or unsafe manner.
Before driving, inspect all trailer hitch parts
and attachments, safety chains, electrical
connectors, lamps, tires, and mirrors. See
Towing Equipment 0 307. If the trailer has
electric brakes, start the combination
moving and then manually apply the trailer
brake controller to check that the trailer
brakes work. During the trip, occasionally
To prevent serious injury or death from
carbon monoxide (CO), when towing a
trailer:
.
Do not drive with the liftgate, trunk/
hatch, or rear-most window open.
.
Fully open the air outlets on or under
the instrument panel.
(Continued)
Driving and Operating
301
The vehicle can tow in D (Drive). Shift the
transmission to a lower gear if the
transmission shifts too often under heavy
loads and/or hilly conditions.
When parking your vehicle and your trailer
on a hill:
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with
one hand. To move the trailer to the left,
move that hand to the left. To move the
trailer to the right, move that hand to the
right. Always back up slowly and, if possible,
have someone guide you.
1. Press and hold the brake pedal, but do
not shift into P (Park). Turn the wheels
toward the curb if facing downhill or
into traffic if facing uphill.
When towing at higher altitudes, engine
coolant will boil at a lower temperature
than at lower altitudes. If the engine is
turned off immediately after towing at high
altitude on steep uphill grades, the vehicle
could show signs similar to engine
overheating. To avoid this, let the engine
run, preferably on level ground, with the
transmission in P (Park) for a few minutes
before turning the engine off. If the
overheat warning comes on, see Engine
Overheating 0 347.
2. Have someone place chocks under the
trailer wheels.
Making Turns
3. Gradually release the brake pedal to
allow the chocks to absorb the load of
the trailer.
Caution
Turn more slowly and make wider arcs
when towing a trailer to prevent damage
to your vehicle. Making very sharp turns
could cause the trailer to contact the
vehicle.
4. Reapply the brake pedal. Then apply the
parking brake and shift into P (Park).
5. Release the brake pedal.
Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
Viewing Systems
Make wider turns than normal when towing,
so the trailer will not go over soft shoulders,
over curbs, or strike road signs, trees,
or other objects. Always signal turns well in
advance. Do not steer or brake suddenly.
If equipped, the viewing systems on the
vehicle can improve visibility while hitching,
backing, and driving with a trailer. See
Driver Assistance Systems 0 272.
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Start the vehicle.
Shift into the desired gear.
Release the parking brake.
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
Parking on Hills
Driving on Grades
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of
the chocks.
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear
before starting down a long or steep
downhill grade. If the transmission is not
shifted down, the brakes may overheat and
result in reduced braking efficiency.
Warning
{
4. Stop and have someone pick up and
store the chocks.
To prevent serious injury or death,
always park your vehicle and trailer on a
level surface when possible.
302
Driving and Operating
Disconnect the trailer wiring before backing
the trailer into the water to prevent damage
to the electrical circuits. Reconnect the
wiring to the trailer after removing the
trailer from the water. If the trailer has
electric brakes that can function when the
trailer is submerged, it might help to leave
the electrical trailer connector attached to
maintain trailer brake functionality while on
the boat ramp.
Pulling the Trailer from the Water
Launching and Retrieving a Boat
Backing the Trailer into the Water
To pull the trailer out of the water:
1. Press and hold the brake pedal.
2. Start the engine and shift into gear.
3. Release the parking brake.
Warning
{
.
Have all passengers get out of the
vehicle before backing onto the sloped
part of the ramp. Lower the driver and
passenger side windows before
backing onto the ramp. This will
provide a means of escape in the
unlikely event the vehicle slides into
the water.
4. Let up on the brake pedal.
5. Drive slowly until the tires are clear of
the chocks.
6. Stop and have someone pick up and
store the chocks.
To back the trailer into the water:
1. If equipped, place the vehicle in
Four-Wheel Drive High or Automatic
Four-Wheel Drive.
7. Slowly pull the trailer from the water.
.
If the boat launch surface is slippery,
have the driver remain in the vehicle
with the brake pedal applied while the
boat is being launched. The boat
launch can be especially slippery at
low tide when part of the ramp was
previously submerged at high tide. Do
not back onto the ramp to launch the
boat if you are not sure the vehicle
can maintain traction.
8. Once the vehicle and trailer have been
driven from the sloped part of the boat
ramp, the vehicle can be shifted from
four-wheel-drive high. Shift into the drive
mode that is appropriate for the road
conditions.
2. Slowly back down the boat ramp until
the boat is floating, but no further than
necessary.
3. Press and hold the brake pedal, but do
not shift into P (Park) yet.
4. Have someone place chocks under the
front wheels of the vehicle.
Caution
If the vehicle tires begin to spin and the
vehicle begins to slide toward the water,
remove your foot from the accelerator
pedal and apply the brake pedal. Seek
help to have the vehicle towed up
the ramp.
5. Gradually release the brake pedal to
allow the chocks to absorb the load of
the trailer.
.
Do not move the vehicle if someone is
in the path of the trailer. Some parts
of the trailer might be underwater and
not visible to people who are assisting
in launching the boat.
6. Reapply the brake pedal. Then apply the
parking brake and shift into P (Park).
7. Release the brake pedal.
Driving and Operating
Trailer Weight Ratings
303
Trailering is different than just driving the
vehicle by itself. Trailering affects the
handling, acceleration, braking, and
durability of your vehicle. Successful, safe
trailering takes correct equipment, and it
has to be used properly.
Maintenance when Trailer Towing
The vehicle needs service more often when
used to tow trailers. See Maintenance
Schedule 0 417. It is especially important to
check the engine oil, axle lubricant, belts,
cooling system, and brake system before
and during each trip.
When towing a trailer, the combined weight
of the vehicle, vehicle contents, trailer, and
trailer contents must be below all of the
maximum weight ratings for the vehicle,
including:
The following information has many
time-tested, important trailering tips and
safety rules. Many of these are important
for your safety and that of your passengers.
Read this section carefully before pulling a
trailer.
.
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Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Maximum Trailer Weight Rating
Maximum Trailer Tongue Weight Rating
Gross Axle Weight Rating-Rear (GAWR-RR)
Check periodically to see that all nuts and
bolts on the trailer hitch are tight.
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
The cooling system may temporarily
overheat during severe operating conditions.
See Engine Overheating 0 347.
See “Weight-Distributing Hitch and
Adjustment” under Towing Equipment 0 307
to determine if equalizer bars are required
to obtain the maximum trailer weight
rating.
Trailer Weight
Warning
{
Trailer Towing
If equipped with a diesel engine, see the
Duramax diesel supplement.
Never exceed the towing capacity for
your vehicle.
See “Trailer Brakes” under Towing
Equipment 0 307 to determine if brakes are
required based on the trailer weight.
Safe trailering requires monitoring the
weight, speed, altitude, road grades, outside
temperature, and how frequently the vehicle
is used to tow a trailer.
Caution
Towing a trailer improperly can damage
the vehicle and result in costly repairs
not covered by the vehicle warranty. To
tow a trailer correctly, follow the
The only way to be sure the weight is not
exceeding any of these ratings is to weigh
the tow vehicle and trailer combination,
fully loaded for the trip, getting individual
weights for each of these items.
directions in this section and see your
dealer for important information about
towing a trailer with the vehicle.
304
Driving and Operating
A trailering information label on the B-pillar
shows tow rating information for the
vehicle.
To check that the weight of the vehicle and
trailer are within the GCWR for the vehicle,
follow these steps:
1. Start with the "curb weight" from the
Trailering Information Label.
Warning
{
You and others could be seriously injured
or killed if the trailer is too heavy or the
trailer brakes are inadequate for the load.
The vehicle may be damaged, and the
repairs would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
2. Add the weight of the trailer loaded with
cargo and ready for the trip.
3. Add the weight of all passengers.
4. Add the weight of all cargo in the
vehicle.
5. Add the weight of hitch hardware such
as a draw bar, ball, load equalizer bars,
or sway bars.
Only tow a trailer if all the steps in this
section have been followed. Ask your
dealer for advice and information about
towing a trailer.
Gross Combined Weight (GCW) Alert
If equipped, the GCW Alert can display a
message in the Driver Information Center
(DIC), indicating that the estimated
combined weight of the vehicle and trailer
may exceed the vehicle’s GCWR, under
certain circumstances. See “Gross Combined
Weight Rating” above. The vehicle does not
actually measure the loaded weight of your
vehicle or trailer. It uses vehicle data to
estimate these weights after you begin
a trip.
6. Add the weight of any accessories or
aftermarket equipment added to the
vehicle.
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
The resulting weight cannot exceed the
GCWR value on the Trailering Information
Label.
GCWR is the total allowable weight of the
completely loaded vehicle and trailer
including any fuel, passengers, cargo,
equipment, and accessories. Do not exceed
the GCWR for your vehicle. The GCWR for
the vehicle is on the Trailering Information
Label.
The GCWR can also be confirmed by
weighing the truck and trailer on a public
scale. The truck and trailer should be loaded
for the trip with passengers and cargo.
Driving and Operating
Maximum Trailer Weight
The maximum trailer weight rating is
calculated assuming the tow vehicle has a
driver, a front seat passenger, and all
required trailering equipment. This value
represents the heaviest trailer the vehicle
can tow, but it may be necessary to reduce
the trailer weight to stay within the GCWR,
GVWR, maximum trailer tongue load,
or GAWR-RR for the vehicle.
305
The alert will not activate unless:
GCWR is only one of the maximum weight
ratings applicable to your vehicle and trailer.
The GCW Alert does not estimate whether
the vehicle alone exceeds the GVWR, the
rear-axle weight exceeds GAWR-RR, the
trailer exceeds the Maximum Trailer Weight
Rating or the trailer tongue weight exceeds
the Maximum Tongue Weight Rating.
Always verify that the weight of the vehicle,
vehicle contents, trailer, trailer contents and
trailer tongue are below all of these
.
The feature is turned on in the trailering
application. See Trailering App 0 319.
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The vehicle-trailer combination have been
used enough together for the software to
estimate the combined vehicle and trailer
weight.
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The estimated weight could exceed the
vehicle’s maximum GCWR.
If the GCW alert message is displayed, stop
the vehicle when it is safe and check the
vehicle and trailer weight using a scale. See
“Maximum Trailer Weight” below.
Use the Trailering Information Label to
determine how much the trailer can weigh.
maximum weight ratings. See “Maximum
Trailer Weight” below.
Weights listed apply for conventional trailers
and gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailers unless
otherwise noted.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
For information about the vehicle's
maximum load capacity, see Vehicle Load
Limits 0 204. When calculating the GVWR
with a trailer attached, the trailer tongue
weight must be included as part of the
weight the vehicle is carrying.
Warning
{
Always determine the actual weights of
the loaded vehicle and trailer using a
vehicle scale before beginning a trip.
Never use the GCW Alert to determine
whether the vehicle and trailer are
properly loaded or overloaded. Do not
drive with an overloaded vehicle or
trailer. Death, serious injury, or property
damage could occur.
A step bumper trailer hitch can only support
a total trailer weight up to 2 271 kg
(5,000 lb). If a trailer hitch ball is added to
the step bumper, check the hitch ball rating
to be sure it is higher than the total trailer
weight.
306
Driving and Operating
The trailer tongue weight contributes to the
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). GVW includes
the curb weight of your vehicle, any
passengers, cargo, equipment and the trailer
tongue weight. Vehicle options, passengers,
cargo, and equipment reduce the maximum
allowable tongue weight the vehicle can
carry, which also reduces the maximum
allowable trailer weight.
The trailer tongue weight (1) should be 10–
15% and fifth-wheel or gooseneck tongue
weight should be 15–25% of the total loaded
trailer weight (2). Some specific trailer types,
such as boat trailers, fall outside of this
range. Always refer to the trailer owner’s
manual for the recommended trailer tongue
weight for each trailer. Never exceed the
maximum loads for the vehicle, hitch, and
trailer.
Maximum Trailer Tongue Weight Rating
The Maximum Trailer Tongue Weight Rating
is the allowable trailer tongue weight that
the vehicle can support using a conventional
trailer hitch. It may be necessary to reduce
the overall trailer weight to stay within the
maximum trailer tongue weight rating while
still maintaining the correct trailer load
balance. A fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch
may support a higher tongue weight.
Trailer Load Balance
The trailer load balance percentage is
calculated as: weight (1) divided by
weight (2) times 100.
The correct trailer load balance must be
maintained to ensure trailer stability.
Incorrect load balance is a leading cause of
trailer sway.
After loading the trailer, separately weigh
the trailer and then the trailer tongue and
calculate the trailer load balance percentage
to see if the weights and distribution are
appropriate for your vehicle. If the trailer
weight is too high, it may be possible to
transfer some of the cargo into your vehicle.
If the trailer tongue weight is too high or
too low, it may be possible to rearrange
some of the cargo inside of the trailer.
The Maximum Trailer Tongue Weight Rating
for a conventional trailer hitch or a fifth
wheel/gooseneck hitch is shown on the
Trailering Information Label.
Driving and Operating
Towing Equipment
307
Do not exceed the maximum allowable
tongue weight for your vehicle. Use the
shortest hitch extension available to position
the hitch ball closer to your vehicle. This will
help reduce the effect of the trailer tongue
weight on the trailer hitch and the rear axle.
Hitches
Warning
{
In order to avoid serious injury or
If a cargo carrier is used in the trailer hitch
receiver, choose a carrier that positions the
load as close to the vehicle as possible.
Make sure the total weight, including the
carrier, is no more than half of the
maximum allowable tongue weight for the
vehicle or 227 kg (500 lb), whichever is less.
property damage, always follow the hitch
manufacturer's instructions when securing
your draw bar/coupling device to the
vehicle's hitch receiver.
Ensure that the draw bar/coupling device
is secured with a locking retainer pin or
other means such that rotation of the pin
or locking mechanism will not cause the
pin to back out or loosen during use.
Failure to correctly secure the draw bar/
coupling device to the receiver can result
in separation of the hitch/receiver while
towing.
The GAWR-RR for the vehicle is on the
Trailering Information Label.
Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR-RR)
Ask your dealer for trailering information or
assistance.
The GAWR-RR is the total weight that can be
supported by the rear axle of the vehicle. Do
not exceed the GAWR-RR for the vehicle,
with the tow vehicle and trailer fully loaded
for the trip including the weight of the
trailer tongue. If using a weight-distributing
hitch, do not exceed the GAWR-RR before
applying the weight distribution spring bars.
308
Driving and Operating
Conventional Hitch
Always use the correct hitch equipment for
your vehicle. Crosswinds, large trucks going
by, and rough roads can affect the trailer
and the hitch.
Avoid sharp turns when using a step-bumper
hitch to prevent damage. Make wider turns
to prevent contact between your trailer and
your bumper.
A conventional hitch is bolted to the frame
or cross member of the tow vehicle, and is
generally rated Class 2, 3, or 4.
Proper hitch equipment for your vehicle
helps maintain control of the vehicle-trailer
combination. Many trailers can be towed
using a weight-carrying hitch which has a
coupler latched to the hitch ball, or a tow
eye latched to a pintle hook. Other trailers
may require a weight-distributing hitch that
uses spring bars to distribute the trailer
tongue weight between your vehicle and
trailer axles. Fifth-wheel and gooseneck
hitches may also be used. See “Maximum
Trailer Tongue Weight” under Trailer Towing
0 303 for weight limits with various hitch
types.
Consider using mechanical sway controls
with any trailer. Ask a trailering professional
about sway controls or refer to the trailer
manufacturer's recommendations and
instructions.
Gooseneck Hitch
A gooseneck hitch is designed to be coupled
to a special hitch leveraging a hitch ball, and
is mounted over the rear axle in the
truck bed.
Weight-Distributing Hitch and
Adjustment
Fifth-Wheel Hitch
A fifth-wheel hitch is mounted over the rear
axle in the truck bed, and leverages a
hinged plate — the same type of hitch
leveraged by semi trucks. Generally,
fifth-wheel hitches accommodate large
trailers with as many as one, two, or three
axles.
A weight-distributing hitch may be useful
with some trailers. Use the following
guidelines to determine if a
weight-distributing hitch should be used.
Driving and Operating
309
Vehicle Series
Trailer Weight
Weight-Distributing Hitch Usage
Not Required
Hitch Distribution
1500
1500
Up to 3 175 kg (7,000 lb)
Over 3 175 kg (7,000 lb)
50%
50%
Required
Towing with Model 1500 Series Trucks
5. Install and adjust the tension in the
weight-distributing bars per the
manufacturer’s recommendations so that
the height of the front fender is
approximately H2−[(H2−H1)/2] (halfway
between the two measured ride heights).
1. Position the truck so that the trailer is
ready to connect (keep the trailer
detached).
2. Measure the height of the top of the
front wheel opening at the fender to the
ground (H1).
6. Visually inspect the trailer and
weight-distributing hitch to ensure that
the manufacturer’s recommendations
have been met.
3. Attach the vehicle to the trailer, do not
attach weight distribution bars at
this time.
4. Measure the height of the top of the
front wheel opening on the fender to
the ground (H2).
1. Front of Vehicle
2. H1/H2 Body to Ground Distance
310
Driving and Operating
Measurement
Height Example 1500 (mm)
H1
H2
1 000
1 050
50
H2−H1
(H2−H1)/2
H2−[(H2−H1)/2]
25
1 025
specified on the Trailering Information Label.
See “Trailer Weight" under Trailer Towing
0 303.
Tires
Safety Chains
.
Do not tow a trailer while using a
Always attach safety chains between the
vehicle and the trailer. Instructions about
safety chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer.
compact spare tire on the vehicle.
The hitch should be in the pickup bed so
that its centerline is over or near the rear
axle. Take care that it is not so far forward
that it will contact the back of the cab in
sharp turns. This is especially important for
short box pickups. Trailer pin box extensions
and sliding fifth-wheel hitch assemblies may
be used. There should be at least 15 cm
(6 in) of clearance between the top of the
pickup box and the bottom of the trailer
shelf that extends over the box.
.
Tires must be properly inflated to support
loads while towing a trailer. See Tires
0 369 for instructions on proper tire
inflation.
If the trailer being towed weighs up to
2 271 kg (5,000 lb) with a factory-installed
step bumper, safety chains may be attached
to the attaching points on the bumper;
otherwise, safety chains should be attached
to holes on the trailer hitch.
Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Trailering
Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Trailering
Fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailers can be
used with many pickup models. These
trailers place a larger percentage of the
weight (kingpin weight) on the tow vehicle
than conventional trailers. Make sure this
weight does not cause the vehicle to exceed
GAWR or GVWR. Fifth-wheel or gooseneck
kingpin weight should be 15–25% of the
trailer weight up to the maximum amount
Cross the safety chains under the tongue of
the trailer to help prevent the tongue from
contacting the road if it becomes separated
from the hitch. Always leave enough slack in
the safety chains to allow the combination
to turn. Never allow safety chains to drag
on the ground.
Make sure the hitch is attached to the tow
vehicle frame rails. Do not use the pickup
box for support.
Driving and Operating
311
Use only a round, seven-wire connector with
flat blade terminals meeting SAE J2863
specifications for proper electrical
connectivity.
Trailer Brakes
Auxiliary Battery
Loaded trailers over 900 kg (2,000 lb) must
be equipped with brake systems and with
brakes for each axle. Trailer braking
equipment conforming to Canadian
Standards Association (CSA) requirement
CAN3-D313, or its equivalent, is
If equipped, the vehicle's auxiliary battery
can be used to supply electrical power to
additional equipment that may be added,
such as a slide-in camper.
The seven-wire harness contains the
following trailer circuits:
Locate the auxiliary battery connector under
the hood on the driver side of the vehicle,
next to the engine compartment fuse block.
Follow the proper installation instructions
included with any electrical equipment that
is installed.
Stop/Turn
Yellow/Blue
Signal Left
recommended.
State or local regulations may require
trailers to have their own braking system if
the loaded weight of the trailer exceeds
certain minimums that can vary from state
to state. Read and follow the instructions for
the trailer brakes so they are installed,
adjusted, and maintained properly.
Stop/Turn Signal
Green/Violet
Right
Tail/Parking Lamps Gray/Brown
Caution
Reverse Lamps
Battery Feed
Ground
White/Green
Red/Green
White
To prevent draining the auxiliary battery,
always turn off electrical equipment
when not in use and do not use any
equipment that may exceed the
Warning
{
Electric Trailer Brake Blue
maximum amperage rating of 30 amps.
Never attempt to tamper with the
hydraulic brake system for your trailer
brakes. Do not connect a trailer's
hydraulic brake system directly to your
vehicle's hydraulic brake system. If you
do, both the vehicle antilock brakes and
the trailer brakes may not function,
which could result in a crash.
If equipped, the trailer wiring harness, with
a seven-pin connector and a four-pin
connector, is mounted on the vehicle's rear
bumper.
Trailer Wiring Harness
Basic Trailer Wiring
If the vehicle is not equipped with a trailer
connector on the rear bumper, a seven-wire
trailering harness is tied to the vehicles
frame. The harness requires the installation
of a trailer connector, which is available
through your dealer.
312
Driving and Operating
3. Left Turn/Brake
4. Right Turn/Brake
on the top left hand side (A) and the rear
trailer auxiliary camera (B) should be
installed on the top right hand side.
The trailer connectors contain the following
circuits.
1. Left Turn/Brake
2. Tail Lamps
If equipped with the fifth-wheel/gooseneck
trailer package, the harness connector is
mounted on the inside of the pickup bed
behind the rear wheel.
3. Reverse Lamps
4. Battery Feed
5. Right Turn/Brake
6. Electric Brakes
7. Ground
If equipped, trailering camera connectors are
available in the bumper trailer receptacle in
place of the four-pin connector. The inside
trailer auxiliary camera should be installed
1. Ground
2. Tail Lamps
Driving and Operating
313
Pressing START LIGHT TEST in the Trailering
App automatically activates the trailer
lamps. The Trailering App is not a substitute
for manually inspecting your trailer lamps.
See Trailering App 0 319.
Reverse Lamps
Battery Feed
Ground
White/Green
Red/Green
White
Electric Trailer Brake Blue
Trailer Connection and Lamp Messages
If equipped with the heavy-duty trailering
option, see “Heavy-Duty Trailer Wiring
Harness Package” earlier in this section.
When the camper-wiring harness is ordered
without the heavy-duty trailering package, a
seven-wire harness with a seven-pin
connector is at the rear of the vehicle and is
tied to the vehicle's frame.
When a trailer is properly connected and
working, no trailer connection or lamp
messages appear on the Driver Information
Center (DIC). However; if the vehicle detects
an issue with a trailer connection or lamp,
you may see the following DIC message(s):
Camper/Fifth-Wheel Trailer Wiring Package
.
TRAILER DISCONNECTED CHECK
CONNECTION appears when a connected
trailer is disconnected. It appears
immediately when the vehicle is on,
or upon the next startup if the trailer was
disconnected while the vehicle was off.
Check the trailer connection as
appropriate.
For vehicles without the fifth wheel/
gooseneck trailer package, the seven-wire
camper harness is under the rear bumper,
attached to the frame near the rear
crossmember. A connector must be added to
the wiring harness that connects to the
camper.
Trailer Lamps
Always check that all trailer lamps are
working at the beginning of each trip, and
periodically on longer trips.
If equipped, the Trailering App will monitor
the RH turn/brake lamp circuit, LH turn/
brake lamp circuit, running lamp circuit, and
reverse lamp circuits on the trailer. DIC
messages and Trailering App alerts may be
displayed if lighting circuit issues are
detected on the trailer.
.
CHECK TRAILER XXX LAMP appears when
there is a detected lamp or wiring fault
on the trailer. Check the trailer wiring and
lamps.
The harness contains the following camper/
trailer circuits:
Stop/Turn
Yellow/Blue
Signal Left
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
Stop/Turn Signal
Green/Violet
Right
When properly connected, the trailer turn
signals will illuminate to indicate the vehicle
is turning, changing lanes, or stopping.
Tail/Parking Lamps Gray/Brown
314
Driving and Operating
When towing a trailer, the arrows on the
instrument cluster will illuminate even if the
trailer is not properly connected or the bulbs
are burned out.
engine and transmission driving
characteristics, heavy or light steering
efforts, and reduced fuel economy.
ESC systems to activate, power sent to the
trailer's brakes will be automatically
adjusted to minimize trailer wheel lock-up.
This does not imply that the trailer has
StabiliTrak/ESC.
Integrated Trailer Brake Control System
Tow/Haul Mode
The vehicle may have an Integrated Trailer
Brake Control (ITBC) system for use with
electric trailer brakes or most electric over
hydraulic trailer brake systems. These
instructions apply to both types of electric
trailer brakes.
If the vehicle brakes, ABS, or StabiliTrak/ESC
systems are not functioning properly, the
ITBC system may not function fully or at all.
Make sure all of these systems are fully
operational to allow the ITBC system to
function properly.
For instructions on how to enter Tow/Haul
Mode, see Driver Mode Control 0 240.
Tow/Haul assists when pulling a heavy
trailer or a large or heavy load. See Tow/
Haul Mode 0 230.
The ITBC system is powered through the
vehicle electrical system. Turning the vehicle
off will also turn off the ITBC system. The
ITBC system is fully functional only when
the vehicle is on.
Tow/Haul Mode is designed to be most
effective when the vehicle and trailer
combined weight is at least 75% of the
vehicle's Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR). See “Trailer Weight” under Trailer
Towing 0 303.
Warning
{
This symbol is on the Trailer Brake Control
Panel on vehicles with an ITBC system. The
power output to the trailer brakes is
proportional to the amount of vehicle
braking. This available power output to the
trailer brakes can be adjusted to a wide
range of trailering situations.
Tow/Haul Mode is most useful when towing
a heavy trailer or carrying a large or
heavy load:
Connecting a trailer that has an air brake
system may result in reduced or
complete loss of trailer braking, including
increased stopping distance or trailer
instability which could result in serious
injury, death, or property damage. Only
use the ITBC system with electric or
electric over hydraulic trailer brake
systems.
.
.
.
Through rolling terrain.
In stop-and-go traffic.
In busy parking lots.
Operating the vehicle in Tow/Haul Mode
when lightly loaded or not towing will not
cause damage; however, it is not
The ITBC system is integrated with the
vehicle brake system, antilock brake control
system (ABS), and StabiliTrak/Electronic
Stability Control (ESC) system. In trailering
conditions that cause the ABS or StabiliTrak/
recommended and may result in unpleasant
Driving and Operating
315
panel and the DIC trailer brake display page
to adjust and display power output to the
trailer brakes.
amount of vehicle braking present and
Trailer Brake Control Panel
relative to the Trailer Gain setting. Output is
displayed from 0 to 100% for each gain
setting.
Trailer Brake DIC Display Page
The Trailer Output will indicate “- - - - - -” on
the Trailer Brake Display Page whenever the
following occur:
The ITBC display page indicates:
.
.
.
.
Trailer Gain setting
Output to the trailer brakes
Trailer connection
.
No trailer is connected.
.
A trailer without electric brakes is
connected. No DIC message displays.
System operational status
.
.
.
A trailer with electric brakes has become
disconnected. A CHECK TRAILER WIRING
message displays on the DIC.
There is a fault present in the wiring to
the trailer brakes. A CHECK TRAILER
WIRING message displays on the DIC.
The ITBC system is not working due to a
fault. A SERVICE TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEM
message displays in the DIC.
To display:
.
.
.
Scroll through the DIC menu pages
Press a Trailer Gain (+) or (−) button
Activate the Manual Trailer Brake Apply
Lever
1. Manual Trailer Brake Apply Lever
2. Trailer Symbol
3. Trailer Gain Adjustment Buttons
TRAILER GAIN: Press a Trailer Gain button to
recall the current Trailer Gain setting. Each
press and release of the gain buttons will
then change the Trailer Gain setting. Press
the Trailer Gain (+) or (-) to adjust. Press and
hold to continuously adjust the Trailer Gain.
To turn the output to the trailer off, adjust
the Trailer Gain setting to 0.0. This setting
can be adjusted from 0.0 to 10.0 with a
trailer connected or disconnected.
The trailer symbol on the control panel will
light amber when a trailer with electric
brakes is connected.
Manual Trailer Brake Apply Lever
The ITBC control panel is on the center stack
or center console. See Instrument Panel
Overview 0 5. The control panel allows
adjustment to the amount of output,
referred to as Trailer Gain, available to the
trailer brakes and allows manual application
of the trailer brakes. Use the ITBC control
Slide this lever to apply the trailer's electric
brakes independent of the vehicle brakes.
Use this lever to adjust Trailer Gain to
achieve the proper power output to the
trailer brakes. This lever may also be used
to request additional trailer braking at any
time. The trailer and the vehicle brake lamps
TRAILER OUTPUT: This displays anytime a
trailer with electric brakes is connected.
Output to the trailer brakes is based on the
316
Driving and Operating
.
The disconnect occurs while the vehicle is
stationary, this message will
automatically turn off in about
30 seconds. This message will also turn
off if it is acknowledged or if the trailer
harness is reconnected.
The disconnect occurs while the vehicle is
moving, this message will continue until
the vehicle is turned off. This message
will also turn off if it is acknowledged or
if the trailer harness is reconnected.
There is an electrical fault in the wiring to
the trailer brakes. This message will
continue as long as there is an electrical
fault in the trailer wiring. This message
will also turn off if it is acknowledged.
will come on when either vehicle brakes or
manual trailer brakes are applied and
properly connected.
2. Adjust the Trailer Gain, using the Trailer
Gain (+) or (−) adjustment buttons, to
just below the point of trailer wheel
lock-up, indicated by trailer wheel squeal
or tire smoke when a trailer wheel locks.
Trailer Gain Adjustment Procedure
Trailer Gain should be set for a specific
trailering condition and it must be
readjusted anytime vehicle loading, trailer
loading, or road surface conditions change.
Trailer wheel lock-up may not occur if
towing a heavily loaded trailer. Adjust
the Trailer Gain to the highest allowable
setting for the towing condition.
.
.
3. Readjust Trailer Gain anytime vehicle
loading, trailer loading, or road surface
conditions change or if trailer wheel
lock-up is noticed at any time while
towing.
Warning
{
Trailer brakes that are over-gained or
under-gained may not stop the vehicle
and the trailer as intended and can result
in a crash. Always follow the instructions
to set the Trailer Gain for the proper
trailer stopping performance.
Other ITBC-Related DIC Messages
TRAILER BRAKES CONNECTED: This message
will briefly display when a trailer with
electric brakes is first connected to the
vehicle. This message will automatically turn
off in about 10 seconds. This message can
be acknowledged before it automatically
turns off.
To determine whether the electrical fault is
on the vehicle side or trailer side of the
trailer wiring harness connection:
To adjust Trailer Gain for each towing
condition:
1. Disconnect the trailer wiring harness
from the vehicle.
1. Drive the vehicle with the trailer
attached on a level road surface
representative of the towing condition
and free of traffic at about 32–40 km/h
(20–25 mph) and fully apply the Manual
Trailer Brake Apply Lever.
2. Turn the vehicle off.
3. Wait 10 seconds, then turn the vehicle
back to RUN.
CHECK TRAILER WIRING: This message will
display if:
4. If the CHECK TRAILER WIRING message
reappears, the electrical fault is on the
vehicle side.
.
The ITBC system first determines
connection to a trailer with electric brakes
and then the trailer harness becomes
disconnected from the vehicle.
Adjusting Trailer Gain at speeds lower
than 32–40 km/h (20–25 mph) may result
in an incorrect gain setting.
Driving and Operating
317
5. If the CHECK TRAILER WIRING message
only reappears when connecting the
trailer wiring harness to the vehicle, the
electrical fault is on the trailer side.
side of the road and turn the vehicle off.
Check the wiring connection to the trailer
and turn the vehicle back on. If either of
these messages continue, either the vehicle
or trailer needs service.
SERVICE TRAILER BRAKES or REDUCED
TRAILER BRAKING: This message will display
if the electric trailer brake performance is
either reduced or non-functional.
A GM dealer may be able to diagnose and
repair problems with the trailer. However,
any diagnosis and repair of the trailer is not
covered under the vehicle warranty. Contact
your trailer dealer for assistance with trailer
repairs and trailer warranty information.
HOLD LAST KNOWN GAIN: This message will
display if it is no longer possible to adjust
the trailer brake gain. Trailer brakes may or
may not still be functional, and it is not
possible to adjust brake gain based on road
conditions. The trailer brakes may remain
functional until the next time the vehicle is
turned off.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
If TSC is enabled, the Traction Control
Vehicles with StabiliTrak/Electronic Stability
Control (ESC) have a Trailer Sway Control
(TSC) feature. Trailer sway is unintended
side-to-side motion of a trailer while towing.
If the vehicle is towing a trailer and the TSC
detects that sway is increasing, the vehicle
brakes are selectively applied at each wheel,
to help reduce excessive trailer sway.
If equipped with the Integrated Trailer Brake
Control (ITBC) system, and the trailer has an
electric brake system, StabiliTrak/ESC may
also apply the trailer brakes.
System (TCS)/StabiliTrak/ESC warning light
will flash on the instrument cluster. Reduce
vehicle speed by gradually removing your
foot from the accelerator. If trailer sway
continues, StabiliTrak/ESC can reduce engine
torque to help slow the vehicle. TSC will not
function if StabiliTrak/ESC is turned off. See
Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control
0 237.
TRAILER BRAKES DISABLED SERVICE
REQUIRED: This message will display when
there is a problem with the ITBC system.
If this message continues over multiple
restarts, have the vehicle serviced.
If either the CHECK TRAILER WIRING, TRAILER
BRAKES DISABLED SERVICE REQUIRED,
SERVICE TRAILER BRAKES, HOLD LAST KNOWN
GAIN, or REDUCED TRAILER BRAKING
Warning
{
Trailer sway can result in a crash and in
serious injury or death, even if the
vehicle is equipped with TSC.
(Continued)
message displays while driving, the ITBC
system may not be fully functional or may
not function at all. When traffic conditions
allow, carefully pull the vehicle over to the
318
Driving and Operating
Warning (Continued)
aftermarket devices may have on vehicle
handling or trailer brake performance is not
known.
Warning (Continued)
.
If the trailer brakes are not operating
properly at any time, or if a DIC
message indicates problems with the
trailer connections or trailer brakes,
carefully pull the vehicle over to the
side of the road when traffic
If the trailer begins to sway, reduce
vehicle speed by gradually removing your
foot from the accelerator. Then pull over
to check the trailer and vehicle to help
correct possible causes, including an
improperly or overloaded trailer,
unrestrained cargo, improper trailer hitch
configuration, or improperly inflated or
incorrect vehicle or trailer tires. See
Towing Equipment 0 307 for trailer
ratings and hitch setup recommendations.
Warning
{
Use of aftermarket electronic trailer sway
control devices could result in reduced
trailer brake performance, loss of trailer
brakes, or other malfunctions, and result
in a crash. You or others could be
seriously injured or killed. Before using
one of these devices:
conditions allow.
Trailer Tires
Special Trailer (ST) tires differ from vehicle
tires. Trailer tires are designed with stiff
sidewalls to help prevent sway and to
support heavy loads. These features can
make it difficult to determine if the trailer
tire pressures are low only based on a visual
inspection.
.
Ask the device or trailer manufacturer
if the device has been thoroughly
tested for compatibility with the
make, model, and year of your vehicle
and any optional equipment installed
on your vehicle.
Aftermarket Electronic Trailer Sway
Control Devices
Some trailers may come equipped with an
electronic device designed to reduce or
control trailer sway. Aftermarket equipment
manufacturers also offer similar devices that
connect to the wiring between the trailer
and the vehicle. These devices may interfere
with the vehicle’s trailer brake or other
systems, including integrated anti-sway
systems, if equipped. Messages related to
trailer connections or trailer brakes could
appear on the DIC. The effects of these
Always check all trailer tire pressures before
each trip when the tires are cool. Low trailer
tire pressure is a leading cause of trailer tire
blow-outs.
.
Before driving, check the trailer brakes
are working properly, if equipped.
Drive the vehicle with the trailer
attached on a level road surface that
is free of traffic at about 32-40 km/h
(20-25 mph) and fully apply the
manual trailer brake apply lever. Also,
check the trailer brake lamps and
other lamps are functioning correctly.
(Continued)
Trailer tires deteriorate over time. The trailer
tire sidewall will show the week and year
the tire was manufactured. Many trailer tire
manufacturers recommend replacing tires
more than six years old.
Driving and Operating
319
Overloading is another leading cause of
trailer tire blow-outs. Never load your trailer
with more weight than the tires are
designed to support. The load rating is
located on the trailer tire sidewall.
4. The right turn signal light flashes three
times.
The Trailering App welcome page appears
when the Trailering App is opened for the
first time from the infotainment home
screen.
5. The reverse lights turn on for about
two seconds.
When a trailer is electrically connected and
a trailer profile has not been created, there
will be an option to create a profile, use a
guest profile, or select Accessory/No trailer.
6. Steps 2–5 repeat for approximately
one minute and 45 seconds, or until the
test deactivates.
Always know the maximum speed rating for
the trailer tires before driving. This may be
significantly lower than the vehicle tire
speed rating. The speed rating may be on
the trailer tire sidewall. If the speed rating is
not shown, the default trailer tire speed
rating is 105 km/h (65 mph).
Touch Stop to stop the test. The test
automatically ends after one minute and
45 seconds.
When a trailer is electrically connected and
after a Trailer Profile has been created, the
trailer detection pop-up appears with a list
of all of the custom Trailer Profiles made on
the vehicle. To load an existing Trailer
Profile, select one of the Trailer Profiles
listed, or load the Guest Trailer Profile by
selecting GUEST TRAILER. Touching
Accessory/No trailer will select Accessory/No
trailer as the active Trailer Profile and will
dismiss the pop- up. Shifting the vehicle
from P (Park) will select Guest Trailer as the
active Trailer Profile and will dismiss the
pop-up.
The sequence also deactivates when any of
the following occur:
Trailering App
.
.
.
.
.
The vehicle is turned off.
The transmission is shifted out of P (Park).
The brake pedal is pressed.
The turn signal is activated.
The hazard warning lights are activated.
Trailer Lights App
If equipped, the Trailer Lights App is on the
infotainment home screen.
Touch Start to cycle the trailer lamps on and
off to determine if they are working. The
test follows this sequence:
Trailering App
If equipped, the Trailering App is on the
infotainment home screen.
1. The running lights turn on first and
remain on throughout the sequence.
Create a Trailer Profile
If equipped this feature allows profiles for
connected trailers to be created to view
status, to store and track trailer usage
information, and to set up towing assist
features.
2. The brake lights turn on for about
two seconds.
Touch Add Trailer on the trailer detection
pop-up or touch + Add Trailer in the
Trailering App.
3. The left turn signal light flashes three
times.
Follow on-screen instructions to set up
profile.
320
Driving and Operating
After a profile is created, set up for
The trailer tire pressure sensors can transmit
up to 7 m (23 feet) from the hitch receiver of
the vehicle.
see a tire or trailer dealer for service. The
learning process must be repeated when the
trailer tires are rotated or replaced.
additional features may become available,
such as Tow/Haul Mode reminder, Trailer
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TTPMS),
maintenance reminders, or towing assist.
A trailer must be electrically connected to
the vehicle before starting the
sensor-to-vehicle learn process.
Tool Method: A TTPMS activation tool can
be purchased separately to learn the sensor
locations.
Import a Trailer Profile
Touch Import on the trailer detection pop-up
or touch Import in the Trailering App.
After selecting Start from the Learn Sensors
screen, use the Tool Method or the Manual
Method (described below) to learn each tire
sensor, during which the current tire number
will be highlighted.
Manual Method: Without the tool, the air
pressure can be increased or decreased in
each tire for 10 seconds. Do not exceed the
maximum inflation pressure found on the
tire sidewalls. Make sure to readjust tire
pressure to the recommended level when
the process is complete.
Follow on-screen instructions to import a
profile.
After a profile is imported, it can be selected
from the trailer list. The Tow/Haul Mode
reminder, Brake Gain Setting and Trailer Tire
Pressure sensor learning, if equipped, do not
import.
Each sensor has a maximum of two minutes
to learn. After a sensor is learned, a
checkmark appears next to the tire, the
vehicle horn sounds, the vehicle brake lamps
flash, and all working trailer lamps flash.
It then moves to the next sensor.
Sensor Learning Steps
To complete the sensor-to-vehicle learn
process:
Trailer Feature Setup
1. Touch Start on the Learn Sensors screen.
The horn chirps twice and the Learning
Active screen appears on the
Touch Stop to cancel the process.
Tow/Haul Mode Reminder
The recommended tire pressure must be
entered for the trailer tires. This allows the
vehicle to alert when the tire pressure is
high or low.
To turn the Tow/Haul Mode Reminder
setting on, touch Yes. To turn it off,
touch No.
infotainment screen.
2. Start with the driver side front
trailer tire.
Trailer Tire Pressure Setup
TTPMS must learn the location of the
installed tire sensors to show correct air
pressure and temperature for each tire. To
set up, use one of the following options or
3. Activate the tool near the valve stem or
adjust the air pressure of this tire until
the horn chirps and all working vehicle
and trailer lights flash.
If the Trailer TTPMS is detected, touch the
Tire Pressure Monitoring icon to set up tire
pressure monitoring.
Driving and Operating
321
.
.
.
Trailer Tongue Length: 50 cm (19.6 in) –
220 cm (86.6 in). Measure from center of
coupler to trailer front wall.
Vehicle Hitch Height: 10 cm (3.9 in) –
100 cm (39.3 in). Measure from ground to
top of coupler.
Vehicle Hitch Length: 10 cm (3.9 in) –
100 cm (39.3 in). Measure from hitch
receiver to center of ball.
The process stops without saving the
sensor locations if this step takes more
than two minutes.
Transparent Trailer Setup
If equipped, a rear trailer camera must be
mounted on the trailer and electrically
connected to the vehicle before transparent
trailer feature can be used. See Assistance
Systems for Parking or Backing 0 274.
4. Move to the next tire and repeat Step 3
for each sensor. The horn chirps twice
when all sensors are completed.
5. Return to the vehicle to complete the
setup.
Trailer dimensions must be in range and
transparent trailer must be calibrated prior
to use:
Maintenance Reminders
Rear Trailer Guidance Setup
1. If trailer dimensions are out of range,
this feature will be unavailable.
To set up maintenance reminders, touch the
Trailer Maintenance icon. Follow the
onscreen prompts. The maximum number of
reminders is 50.
If equipped, a rear trailer camera must be
mounted on the trailer and electrically
connected to the vehicle before rear trailer
guidance feature can be used. See Assistance
Systems for Parking or Backing 0 274.
2. Ensure rear trailer camera is connected.
3. Follow instructions to drive forward to
complete calibration.
Towing Assist
.
.
.
.
Trailer Length: 300 cm (118.1 in) – 970 cm
(381.8 in). Measure from center of coupler
to furthest rear point on the trailer.
Trailer Width: 120 cm (47.2 in) – 260 cm
(102.3 in). Measure from left edge of
trailer to right edge.
Trailer Height: 1 cm (0.39 in) – 450 cm
(177.1 in). Measure from ground to tallest
point of the trailer.
Hitching Point Length: 180 cm (70.8 in) –
970 cm (381.8 in). Measure from center of
coupler to middle of tires.
To set up towing assist features,
if equipped, touch the towing assist icon.
Trailer dimensions must be in range to
enable this feature.
.
1. Select the number of axles on the trailer.
2. Enter trailer dimensions as prompted.
Trailer Length: 300 cm (118.1 in) –
1300 cm (511.8 in). Measure from center
of coupler to furthest rear point on the
trailer.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete
setup for available features.
1. If trailer dimensions are out of range,
this feature will be unavailable.
Certain trailer features require a compatible
trailer profile be configured and selected.
A compatible trailer is a box type trailer
(cargo, camper, etc.) with a conventional
hitch.
2. Ensure rear trailer camera is connected.
3. Follow instructions to drive forward to
complete calibration.
322
Driving and Operating
If a trailer is connected, the Status view
shows status information for the active
trailer profile.
Jack-Knife Alert Setup
Lights
If equipped, follow the instructions to drive
forward to complete calibration.
If no trailer is connected, the Status view
shows the last trailer profile with a status of
Not Connected.
Trailer Length Indicator Setup
If equipped, follow the instructions to drive
forward to complete calibration.
The Status view shows:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Lights
Tires
Maintenance
Cameras
Checklists
Weight
Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert Setup
If equipped, trailer dimensions must be in
range to enable this feature.
This view displays the names of the trailer
connector pins, a graphic of the trailer
connector, and a graphic of the back of the
trailer.
.
Trailer Length: 300 cm (118.1 in) –
1200 cm (472.4 in). Measure from center
of coupler to furthest rear point on the
trailer.
Towing Assist
Any connector pin that failed will be amber
color, and the location of the corresponding
connection will be highlighted on the
graphic of the back of the trailer.
If trailer dimensions are out of range, this
feature will be unavailable.
Scroll right or left to see more options.
Each section shows high level status
information for the feature. Selecting a
section will open up a new screen with
additional information and/or options.
Selecting a camera view will open up a new
screen to preview the camera image. The
status view displays mileage and fuel
economy information.
Status View
If a trailer connection is detected without
any faults, the view will display No Issues
Found.
When a trailer is connected, the Trailering
App System detects the trailer connection
using the Stop/Turn Signal lighting circuits
and alerts the driver by requesting a trailer
profile setup through the Trailering App
System on the infotainment screen. If a
default trailer profile is selected, the
Driving and Operating
323
Trailering App System will not display a
Trailer Detection Alert to the user when a
trailer is connected.
Connection Problem
3. The left turn signal light flashes three
times.
If any of the trailer connections are lost, a
message about the connection issue appears
on the DIC. The infotainment screen will also
show the connection issue in the Lights
Status view.
4. The right turn signal light flashes three
times.
When a trailer is connected and the vehicle
is off, the Trailering App System will
periodically pulse the lighting circuits of the
trailer to verify it is still connected. The
trailer lights may periodically flash as a
result of this trailer connection detection.
These flashes may be more visible in dark
ambient light environments. The flashing or
flickering lights are a normal condition and
the Trailering App System has built-in
protections to prevent the battery from
draining. When Theft Alert is enabled, the
frequency and pattern of this flashing will
change.
5. The reverse lights turn on for about
two seconds.
Connection Trailer Lighting Faults Detected
6. Steps 2-5 repeat for approximately on
minute and 45 seconds, or until the test
deactivates.
The Trailering App System monitors for
electrical faults on the trailer lights.
A message about the lighting issue appears
on the DIC. The infotainment screen will also
show the lighting issue in the Lights Status
view. Repair your trailer lights if needed.
A trailer lighting issue is not covered by
your GM warranty.
Touch Stop to stop the test. The test will
automatically end after one minute and
45 seconds.
The sequence also deactivates when any of
the following occur:
.
.
The vehicle is turned off.
The transmission is shifted out of
P (Park).
The Running Lights connection may not
detect partial outages. Activate the light test
to check all trailer lamps. See “Light Test”
following.
If a connected trailer becomes disconnected,
a message about the trailer disconnect will
appear on the Driver Information Center
(DIC) immediately (if vehicle is on) or the
next time the vehicle is turned on (if trailer
was disconnected while vehicle is off). Check
your trailer connection if needed.
.
.
.
The brake pedal is pressed.
The turn signal is activated.
The hazard warning lights are activated.
Light Test
Touch Start Light Test to cycle the trailer
lights on and off to determine if they are
working. The test follows this sequence:
1. The running lights turn on first and
remain on throughout the sequence.
2. The brake lights turn on for about
two seconds.
324
Driving and Operating
relearn the tire sensors and their locations.
See “Trailer Tire Pressure Setup” previously
in this section.
The progress bar turns red when the
maintenance item reaches 100% complete.
Tires
Touch New Reminder to add a new
maintenance reminder.
Touch Edit Target Pressure to change the
recommended tire pressure for the trailer
tires. This will change the number at which
the vehicle displays alerts related to trailer
tire pressure.
Suggested reminders that were previously
set will not appear. Suggested reminders
that have not been set have empty boxes
next to them. The maximum number of
reminders is 50.
Maintenance
Maintenance Notifications
Tire Pressure and Temperature
Touch Reset to reset time and mileage
values for the reminder.
If the TTPMS sensor-to-vehicle learn process
was completed, the status view will display
the current tire pressure and temperature of
the trailer tires related to the active Trailer
Profile. If a tire’s pressure is low or high, the
color of the pressure value will be amber.
If a sensor malfunctions, the values are
dashed lines. If the screen displays “Service
Tire Pressure Monitoring System,” the
vehicle needs to be taken to a dealer for
service.
Touch Remind Me Later to delay the
reminder.
If an Upcoming Alert (90%) is dismissed, it
will not appear again.
If a Maintenance Due Alert (100%) is
dismissed, it will appear when the vehicle is
turned off and back on again.
Touch to view a list of maintenance
reminders for the Trailer Profile.
The Maintenance Status view displays
reminders for the Trailer Profile. Touch a
reminder to view, reset, delete, or edit it.
Always follow all of the maintenance
instructions that came with your trailer.
Touch to set up the TTPMS for the Trailer
Profile. See “Trailer Tire Pressure Setup”
previously in this section for details on the
setup. Also, touch Sensor Setup if the trailer
tires were rotated or if the tire pressure
sensors in the tires were replaced for this
Trailer Profile. The vehicle will need to
Resetting a reminder will reset the time and
mileage values for the reminder. The
progress bar turns yellow when the
maintenance item reaches 90% complete.
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325
Touch the box next to each item if that step
has been completed.
Cameras
Weight
Touch 4 to access a detailed view of each
step. Within each detailed view, touch Next
and Previous to navigate between steps.
Touch Clear All to clear the completed
statuses from all items in the current
checklist.
Custom Checklist Items
For each of the Trailer Profile checklists,
there is an option to create custom items to
view in the checklist. The custom item will
appear at the bottom of the checklist.
This view shows a preview of the selected
camera view. Touch X to exit the preview.
Touch the camera icon to open the
camera app.
Touch to turn on or off the GCW Alert.
Touch 4 to learn more about the GCW Alert.
When on, an alert may be presented when
the combined weight of the vehicle and
trailer may exceed the vehicle’s Gross
Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). For more
information on the Gross Combined Weight
(GCW) Alert, see Trailer Towing 0 303.
Guest Trailer and No Trailer Connected
Checklist View
If a Guest Trailer Profile is active, or if no
trailer is connected, the checklist will show
all of the checklists associated with Custom
Trailer Profiles in addition to default
checklist.
Towing Assist
A trailer should be connected to complete
this portion of profile setup.
Touch to set up towing assist features for
the Trailer Profile. See "Towing Assist" for
details on the setup.
This view shows the recommended steps to
take before towing a trailer.
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Driving and Operating
The Custom Trailer Profiles and Guest Trailer
are in order of the most frequently used.
The Accessory/No Trailer profile is shown
below the Custom Trailer Profiles and Guest
Trailer Profile.
set up for the Accessory/No Trailer Profile.
The Accessory/No Trailer profile cannot be
edited.
Guest Trailer Status View
If the Guest Trailer Profile is active, the
Status view shows:
No Trailer Connected
.
.
.
.
Lights
When there is no trailer connected, Trailer
Profiles cannot be activated but most
options can be edited.
Cameras
Checklist
Weight
All personalization features are based on the
settings for each driver in vehicle
personalization. The list of Trailer Profiles is
based on vehicle personalization settings.
Trailer Brake Gain Memory
Scroll right or left to see more options.
The system can store the brake gain setting
of a Trailer Profile or a Guest Trailer Profile.
When a Trailer Profile or Guest Trailer Profile
is selected, and a brake gain setting is set
for that Trailer Profile, a quick notice will
appear to indicate that the system has
recalled that profile's brake gain setting.
Guest Trailer
The Trailer Status view displays mileage and
fuel economy information. Mileage and fuel
economy will reset after the trailer
disconnects.
If the Guest Trailer Profile is the active
Trailer Profile, trailer detection, lights/
connections status, theft, and the Tow/Haul
reminder alerts can be sent. The system will
not track total mileage or fuel economy, but
the system will track trip mileage and fuel
economy if the Guest Trailer Profile is active.
The TTPMS or maintenance reminders
Accessory/No Trailer Status View
If the Accessory/No Trailer profile is active,
trailer status information is not available.
If a Trailer Profile is already active and the
brake gain setting had been set for that
Trailer Profile, the quick notice will trigger
whenever the vehicle is turned on.
Trailers View
cannot be set up for a Guest Trailer Profile.
The Guest Trailer Profile cannot be edited.
Touch the trailer profile icon/name in the
Status View to view, activate, create, edit,
or delete Trailer Profiles.
If there was an error in setting the brake
gain for a Trailer Profile, there will be a
notification. This pop-up will not appear if
the Guest Trailer Profile is active or if there
is no trailer connected.
Touch 4 to learn more about the Guest
Trailer option.
If a trailer is connected, touch the Trailer
Profile name to activate a Trailer Profile.
Accessory/No Trailer
If the Accessory/No Trailer Profile is active,
alerts will not be sent and the system will
not track mileage or fuel economy. The
TTPMS or maintenance reminders cannot be
There can be up to five Custom Trailer
Profiles on the vehicle.
Driving and Operating
327
Trailer brake gain should be set for a specific
trailering condition and must be adjusted
anytime vehicle loading, trailer loading,
or road surface conditions change.
Trailer Name
profile from the vehicle but the profile will
still be associated with the user account.
However, if there is not a connected OnStar
plan, then the remove button will read
DELETE and the profile will be deleted
permanently.
Touch to edit the Trailer Profile’s name. Use
at least one character and no spaces.
Total Mileage
Editing a Trailer Profile
Touch to edit the Trailer Profile’s mileage.
Touch Reset to reset trailer mileage to zero,
or enter a new value and touch Save.
Set as Default Trailer
Touch Set as Default Trailer to select the
current profile as default.
Effect on Maintenance Reminders
If the mileage is reset or changed, and
mileage has already accumulated, any
maintenance reminders that have been set
up will be adjusted accordingly.
The default Trailer profile will be
automatically selected each time a new
connection is detected. The Trailer Detection
Alert will no longer appear.
Average Fuel Economy
If this setting is turned off, the current
trailer profile is not the default trailer.
Touch the trailer profile icon/name in the
Status View to access the Trailer
Profile view:
Touch to reset the average fuel economy for
the trailer profile. Touch Reset to reset fuel
economy.
GCW Alerts
Touch GCW Alert to turn on/off the GCW
Alert for the selected profile. These alerts
are based on the Trailer Profile, so the
settings for each Trailer Profile must be
turned on or off.
.
.
.
.
.
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.
.
.
Trailer Name
Total Mileage
Delete/Remove Trailer
Touch to remove the Trailer Profile and all
of its settings.
Average Fuel Economy
Set as Default Trailer
GCW Alert
Tow/Haul Mode Reminder Alert
Theft Alert
On the pop-up, touch Remove to remove the
Trailer Profile from the vehicle. Touch Cancel
to dismiss the pop-up and return to the
previous view.
The setting will be on by default for each
profile.
Turn this setting off to not receive GCW
Alerts when that Trailer Profile is active.
Maintenance Alert
Delete/Remove Trailer
Remove is displayed if there is a connected
OnStar plan active with the vehicle.
Removing a trailer profile will remove the
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Driving and Operating
Maintenance Alerts
if the setting is on for the active Trailer
Profile, the vehicle has an OnStar or
connected service plan and the smartphone
number has been added to the account for
this notification.
If Tow/Haul Mode is on and this setting is
on for a Trailer Profile, the reminder will not
appear when the Trailer Profile is active.
Touch Maintenance Alert to turn on/off
Maintenance Alerts for the selected profile.
These alerts are based on the Trailer Profile,
so the settings for each Trailer Profile must
be turned on or off.
Conversions and Add-Ons
If the setting is turned off for a given Trailer
Profile, the smartphone will not receive this
security notification even if the Trailer
Profile is active.
Add-On Electrical Equipment
The setting is on by default for each profile.
All Maintenance Alerts for that active Trailer
Profile will be received.
Warning
{
Tow/Haul Mode Reminder
The Data Link Connector (DLC) is used for
vehicle service and Emission Inspection/
Maintenance testing. See Malfunction
Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) 0 117.
A device connected to the DLC — such as
an aftermarket fleet or driver-behavior
tracking device — may interfere with
vehicle systems. This could affect vehicle
operation and cause a crash. Such devices
may also access information stored in the
vehicle’s systems.
Turn this setting off to dismiss Maintenance
Alerts when that Trailer Profile is active.
This is a reminder to turn on the Tow/Haul
Mode when towing a trailer. See Driver
Mode Control 0 240.
Theft Alert
Theft alert can be set if a trailer is
connected and the alert is enabled. When
the trailer is disconnected and the vehicle is
off, an alarm will sound.
Touch Tow/Haul Mode Reminder to turn on/
off Tow/Haul Mode reminders for the
selected profile. These alerts are based on
the Trailer Profile, so the settings for each
Trailer Profile must be turned on or off.
Touch Theft Alert to turn on/off Theft Alerts
for the selected profile. These alerts are
based on the Trailer Profile, so the settings
for each Trailer Profile must be turned on
or off.
This setting will default to OFF for each
Trailer Profile, including the Guest Trailer
Profile.
Caution
If Tow/Haul Mode is off and this setting is
on for a Trailer Profile, each time the vehicle
is turned on, a reminder will appear to turn
on Tow/Haul Mode when the Trailer Profile
is active.
This setting will be off by default for each
Trailer Profile, including the Guest Trailer
Profile.
Some electrical equipment can damage
the vehicle or cause components to not
work and would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Always check with your
dealer before adding electrical equipment.
A smartphone will receive a notification that
the trailer related to the selected Trailer
Profile is disconnected from the vehicle,
