Information on Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) – 2011-2021 Chevrolet & GMC

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Service Bulletin Bulletin No.: 16-NA-244
Date: November, 2020
INFORMATION
Subject: Information on Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
Brand: Model:
Model Year: VIN:
Engine: Transmission:
from to from to
Chevrolet
Cruze 2014 2015
Diesel (RPO
L5P, LML,
LGH, LUZ,
LWN, LH7)
Cruze (GEN II VIN B) 2017 2019
Colorado 2016 2021
Express 2010 2021
Silverado 2011 2018
Silverado 2500/3500 2019 2021
GMC
Canyon 2016 2021
Savana 2010 2021
Sierra 2011 2018
Sierra 2500/3500 2019 2021
Involved Region or Country
North America, Europe, Uzbekistan, Russia, Middle East, Iraq, Israel, Palestine,
Argentina (Mercosur), Brazil (Mercosur), Bolivia (West), Chile (West), Colombia (West),
Ecuador (West), Paraguay (West), Peru (West), Uruguay (West), Venezuela (West),
Japan, Cadillac Korea (South Korea), GM Korea Company, China – SGM, Taiwan ,
Thailand (ASEAN), Singapore, Phiippines, Australia/New Zealand, Egypt, Other Africa,
South Africa
General Information
Note: DEF usage will vary depending on: driving style,
trailer towing, loaded vehicle weight, weather, idle time,
PTO usage.
On vehicles without a DEF Gauge, As a general rule,
when the DIC shows a DEF level of anything except
OK, you can add at least 2.5 gallons (9.5L). The
amount to add to top off will vary.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is required to maintain
normal vehicle operation and emissions compliance.
When filling the DEF tank, there may be a short delay
before detecting the increased level of fluid and
updating the Driver Information Center (DIC).
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) has a shelf life of 2 years.
However, this can be reduced if the fluid is exposed to
direct sunlight or above 30°C (86°F) for sustained
periods. All DEF packaging should be labeled with a
production date.
The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display a
series of messages regarding the amount of DEF that
is available. When mileage countdown is zero, the
vehicle speed is reduced. Refer to Owners Manual.
Page 2 November, 2020 Bulletin No.: 16-NA-244
Cold Weather Operation Information
DEF freezes when exposed to temperatures below
-11°C (12°F). In cold conditions it is normal for DEF to
freeze. The tank and delivery lines are heated to thaw
frozen DEF. When filling the tank in cold conditions, the
vehicle may not recognize the new level until the tank
thaws. In certain cold conditions, it is possible to find
some frozen DEF in the DEF fill pipe opening. If you are
expecting to be in extremely cold areas, it is
recommenced to fill the tank prior to cold temperature
exposure.
Version 4
Modified
Released August 01, 2016
Revised December 20, 2016 – Updated the Model years and added the Chevrolet Cruze,
Colorado and GMC Canyon models.
Revised September 05, 2017 – Updated Model Years.
Revised October 29, 2020 – Updated Model Years.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a “do-it-yourselfer”. They are written to inform these
technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper
service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a
job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your
vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the
information.
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