2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Appearance Care
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory. Use a deicing agent only when absolutely necessary, and have the locks greased after using. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 431. Washing the Vehicle To preserve the vehicle’s finish, wash it often and out of direct sunlight
Warning
Do not power-wash any part of the vehicle’s interior, including the vinyl floor covering. This could damage safety and other systems in the vehicle, which would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based, acidic, or abrasive cleaning agents as they can damage the vehicle’s paint, metal, or plastic parts. If damage occurs, it would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Approved cleaning products can be obtained from your dealer. Follow all manufacturer directions regarding correct product usage, necessary safety precautions, and appropriate disposal of any vehicle care product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure washes closer than 30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the vehicle. Use of power washers exceeding 8 274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result in damage or removal of paint and decals.
Cleaning Underhood Components
Caution
Do not power-wash any component under the hood that has those symbol. This could cause damage that would not be covered by the vehicle warranty
Solvents or aggressive cleaners may harm underhood components. The usage of these chemicals should be avoided. Recommend water only. A pressure washer may be used, but care must be utilized. The following criteria must be followed:
- Water pressure must be kept below 14 000 KPa (2,000 PSI).
- Water temperature must be below 80 °C (180 °F).
- A spray nozzle with a 40-degree wide-angle spray pattern or wider must be used.
- The nozzle must be kept at least 30 cm (1 ft) away from all surfaces
Automatic Car Wash
Caution
Some automatic car washes can cause damage to the vehicle, wheels, and ground effects. Automatic car washes are not recommended, due to lack of clearance for the undercarriage and/or wide rear tires and wheels Automatic car washes can cause damage to the vehicle, wheels, ground effects, and convertible top (if equipped). Do not use automatic car washes due to lack of clearance for the undercarriage, wide rear tires, and wheels
- If using an automatic car wash, follow the car wash instructions. The windshield wiper and rear window wiper, if equipped, must be turned off. Remove any accessories that may be damaged or interfere with the car wash equipment.
- See Power Assist Steps 0 27 for cleaning information.
- Rinse the vehicle well, before washing, and after, remove all cleaning agents completely. If they are allowed to dry on the surface, they could stain.
- Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting
Finish Care
- Application of aftermarket clearcoat sealant/ wax materials is not recommended.
- If painted surfaces are damaged, see your dealer to have the damage assessed and repaired. Foreign materials such as calciumchloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage the vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
- Occasional hand waxing or mild polishing should be done to remove residue from the paint finish. See your dealer for approved cleaning products.
- Do not apply waxes or polishes to uncoated plastic, vinyl, rubber, decals, simulated wood, or flat paint as damage can occur.
Caution
Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish on the vehicle.
To keep the paint finish looking new, keep the vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible.
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Moldings
Caution
Failure to clean and protect the bright metal moldings can result in a hazy white finish or pitting. This damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
The bright metal moldings on the vehicle are aluminum, chrome, or stainless steel. To prevent damage always follow these cleaning instructions:
- Be sure the molding is cool to the touch before applying any cleaning solution.
- Use only approved cleaning solutions for aluminum, chrome, or stainless steel. Some cleaners are highly acidic or contain alkaline substances and can damage the moldings.
- Always dilute a concentrated cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not use cleaners that are not intended for automotive use.
- Use a nonabrasive wax on the vehicle after washing to protect and extend the molding finish.
Spray-In Bedliner Care
- A spray-in bed liner is a permanent coating that bonds to the truck bed and cannot be removed. Promptly rinse the Bedliner surface following a chemical spill to avoid permanent damage.
- Spray-in bed liners can fade from oxidation, road dirt, heavy-duty hauling, and hard water stains. Clean it periodically by washing off the loose dirt and using a mild detergent. To restore the original appearance, apply the Bedliner conditioner available through your dealer.
Caution
Using silicone-based products may damage the Bedliner, reduce the slip-resistant texture, and attract dirt.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses, Emblems, Decals, and Stripes
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth, and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps, lenses, emblems, decals, and stripes. Follow instructions under “Washing the Vehicle” previously in this section. Lamp covers are made of plastic, and some have a UV protective coating. Do not clean or wipe them while they are dry.
Do not use any of the following on the lamp covers:
- Abrasive or caustic agents.
- Washer fluids and other cleaning agents in higher concentrations than suggested by the manufacturer.
- Solvents, alcohols, fuels, or other harsh cleaners.
- Ice scrapers or other hard items.
- Aftermarket appearance caps or covers while the lamps are illuminated, due to excessive heat generated
Caution
Failure to clean lamps properly can cause damage to the lamp cover that would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Caution
Using wax on low gloss black finish stripes can increase the gloss level and create a non-uniform finish. Clean low gloss stripes with soap and water only.
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intakes, between the hood and windshield, when washing the vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter system designed to help improve fuel economy. Keep the shutter system clear of debris, snow, and ice. If the check engine light is activated, please check to see if the shutter system is clear of debris, snow, or ice.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
- Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner.
- Clean rubber blades using a lint-free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. Wash thewindshield thoroughly when cleaning the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause wiper streaking.
- Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or damaged. Damage can be caused by extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips once a year. Hot, dry climates may require more frequent application. Black marks from rubber material on painted surfaces can be removed by rubbing with a clean cloth. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 431.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire dressing products on the vehicle may damage the paint finish and/or tires. When applying a tire dressing, always wipe off any overspray from all painted surfaces on the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and water to clean the wheels. After rinsing thoroughly with clean water, dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax may then be applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome wheel trim may be damaged if the vehicle is not washed after driving on roads that have been sprayed with magnesium chloride or calcium chloride. These are used on roads for conditions such as dust control. Always wash the chrome with soap and water after exposure.
Caution
To avoid surface damage on wheels and wheel trim, do not use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners, or brushes. Use only GM-approvedcleaners. Do not drive the vehicle through an automatic car wash that uses silicon carbide tire/wheel cleaning brushes. Damage could occur and the repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect drum brake linings/shoes for wear or cracks. Inspect all other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and Chassis Components
- Visually inspect steering, suspension, and chassis components for damaged, loose, or missing parts or signs of wear at least once a year.
- Inspect power steering for proper attachment, connections, binding, cracks, chafing, etc.
- Visually check constant velocity joint boots and axle seals for leaks.
Caution
Lubrication of applicable suspension points should not be done unless the temperature is −12 °C (10 °F) or higher, or damage could result.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the steel fuel door hinge unless the components are plastic. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, in spring and fall, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to thoroughly clean any areas where mud and other debris can collect. If equipped with power assist steps, extend them and then use a high-pressure wash to clean all joints and gaps. Do not directly power wash the transfer case and/or front/rear axle output seals. High-pressure water can overcome the seals and contaminate the fluid. Contaminated fluid will decrease the life of the transfer case and/or axles and should be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide corrosion protection while maintaining the vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and scratches with touch-up materials available from your dealer to avoid corrosion. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your dealer’s body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted vehicle surfaces causing blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface. Refer to “Finish Care” previously in this section.
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions, regularly clean the vehicle’s interior. Before using cleaners, read and follow all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning the interior, open the doors and windows to get proper ventilation. Newspapers or dark garments can transfer color to the vehicle’s interior.
Caution
Immediately remove cleaners, hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect repellent from all interior surfaces or permanent damage may result.
Caution
Use cleaners specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned to prevent permanent damage to the vehicle. Apply all cleaners directly to a cleaning cloth. Do not spray cleaners on any switches orcontrols.
When using liquid soap cleaners, follow the directions on the specific cleaner or soap solution for dilution instructions.
Caution
To prevent damage:
- Never use a razor or any other sharp object to remove soil from any interior surface
- Never use a brush with stiff bristles.
- Never rub any surface aggressively or with too much pressure.
- Do not get any exposed electrical components wet.
- Do not use laundry detergents or dishwashing soaps with degreasers. Do not use solutions that contain strong or caustic soap.
- Do not heavily saturate the upholstery when cleaning.
- Do not use solvents or cleaners containing solvents.
- Do not use disinfecting wipes that are scented or contain bleach. Do not use wipes or cleaners that show a color transfer to the wipe or change the appearance of the interior surface when used.
- Do not use scented or gel-type hand sanitizers. If hand sanitizer comes in contact with interior surfaces of the vehicle, blot immediately and clean with a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap and water solution.
Interior Glass
To clean, use a microfiber cloth fabric dampened with water. Wipe droplets left behind with a clean dry cloth. If necessary, use a commercial glass cleaner after cleaning with plain water.
Caution
To prevent scratching, never use abrasive cleaners on automotive glass. Abrasive cleaners or aggressive cleaning may damage the rear window defogger. Cleaning the windshield with water during the first three to six months of ownership will reduce the tendency to fog.
Speaker Covers
Vacuum around a speaker covers gently so that the speaker will not be damaged. Clean spots with water and mild soap.
Coated Moldings
Coated moldings should be cleaned.
- When lightly soiled, wipe with a sponge or soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water.
- When heavily soiled, use warm soapy water.
Vinyl/Rubber
If equipped with vinyl floor and rubber floor mats, use a soft cloth and/or brush dampened with water to remove dust and loose dirt. For more thorough cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution.
Warning
Do not use cleaners that contain silicone, wax-based products, or cleaners that increase gloss on vinyl/rubber floor and mats. These cleaners can permanently change the appearance and feel of the vinyl/rubber and can make the floor slippery. Your foot could slip while operating the vehicle, and you could lose control, resulting in a crash. You or others could be injured.
Fabric/Carpet/Suede
Start by vacuuming the surface using a soft brush attachment. If a rotating vacuum brush attachment is being used, only use it on the floor carpet. Before cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as possible:
- Gently blot liquids with a paper towel. Continue blotting until no more soil can be removed.
- For solid soils, remove as much as possible prior to vacuuming.
To clean:
- Saturate a clean, lint-free colorfast cloth with water. Microfiber cloth is recommended to prevent lint transfer to the fabric or carpet.
- Remove excess moisture by gently wringing until water does not drip from the cleaning cloth.
- Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub toward the center. Fold the cleaning cloth to a clean area frequently to prevent forcing the soil into the fabric.
- Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no longer any color transfer from the soil to the cleaning cloth.
- If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution followed only by plain water.
If the soil is not completely removed, it may be necessary to use a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small hidden area for colorfastness before using a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter. If ring formation occurs, clean the entire fabric or carpet. After cleaning, use a paper towel to blot excess moisture.
Cleaning High Gloss Surfaces and Vehicle Information and Radio Displays
Use a microfiber cloth on high gloss surfaces or vehicle displays. First, use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt that can scratch the surface. Then gently clean by rubbing with a microfiber cloth. Never use window cleaners or solvents. Periodically hand washes the microfiber cloth separately, using a mild soap. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Rinse thoroughly and air dry before next use.
Caution
Do not attach a device with a suction cup to the display. This may cause damage and would not be covered by the vehicle warranty
Instrument Panel, Leather, Vinyl, Other Plastic Surfaces, Low Gloss Paint Surfaces, and Natural Open Pore Wood Surfaces
Use a soft bristle brush to remove dust from knobs and crevices on the instrument cluster. Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with water to remove dust and loose dirt. For more thorough cleaning, use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with a mild soap and water solution.
Caution
Soaking or saturating leather, especially perforated leather, as well as other interior surfaces, may cause permanent damage. Wipe excess moisture from these surfaces after cleaning and allow them to dry naturally. Never use heat, steam, or spot removers. Do not use liquids that contain alcohol or solvents on leather seats. Do not use cleaners that contain silicone or wax-based products. Cleaners containing these solvents can permanently change the appearance and feel of leather or soft trim, and are not recommended.
Do not use cleaners that increase gloss, especially on the instrument panel. Reflected glare can decrease visibility through the windshield under certain conditions.
Caution
The use of air fresheners may cause permanent damage to plastics and painted surfaces. If an air freshener comes in contact with any plastic or painted surface in the vehicle, blot immediately and clean with a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution. Damage caused by air fresheners would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Care of Seat Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.
Warning
Do not bleach or dye seat belt webbing. It may severely weaken the webbing. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean and rinse seat belt webbing only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Allow the webbing to dry.
Floor Mats
Warning
If a floor mat, a liner, or a liner insert is the wrong size or is not properly installed, it can interfere with the pedals. Interference with the pedals can cause unintended acceleration and/or increased stopping distance, which can cause a crash and injury. Make sure the floor mat, liner, or liner insert does not interfere with the pedals.
Use the following guidelines for proper floor mat/liner use
- The original equipment floor mats are designed for your vehicle. If the floor mats need to be replaced, it is recommended that GM-certified floor mats are purchased. Non-GM floor mats may not fit properly and may interfere with the pedals. Always check that the floor mats do not interfere with the pedals.
- Do not use a floor mat/liner if the vehicle is not equipped with a floor mat retainer on the driver-side floor.
- Use the floor mat/liner insert with the correct side up. Do not turn it over.
- Do not place anything on top of the driver side floor mat/liner.
- Use only a single floor mat/liner on the driver’s side.
- Do not place one-floor mat/liner on top of another.
Removing and Replacing the Floor Mats/Liners
- Pull up on the rear of the driver-side floor mat/liner to unlock each retainer and remove.
- Reinstall by lining up the floor mat/liner retainer openings over the carpet retainers and snapping them into position.
- Make sure the floor mat/liner is properly secured in place.
- Verify the floor mat/liner does not interfere with the pedals.
Removing and Replacing the Floor Liner Inserts
- Pull up on the edge of the driver side floor liner insert to unlock each button clip and remove it.
- Reinstall by lining up the floor liner insert button clips over the liner retainers and snap into position.
- Make sure the floor liner insert is properly secured in place using all button clips.
- Verify the floor liner insert does not interfere with the pedals.
Cleaning Rubber Floor Mats (All-Weather Mats and Floor Liners)
See “Vinyl/Rubber” under Interior Care 416 for important cleaning information.