2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
The 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 AWD is a remarkable blend of power, adaptability, and all-weather prowess. This inventive drivetrain system is intended to improve the driving experience by enhancing traction and control in a variety of road conditions. The 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 AWD combines the robust dependability of a conventional pickup truck with the confidence-inspiring features of all-wheel drive technology, making it an ideal choice for drivers seeking both on-road comfort and off-road excursions. In this introduction, we will explore the key features and benefits of the 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 AWD, highlighting its ability to navigate difficult terrains, inclement weather, and arduous duties with ease. This AWD system ensures that you maintain a firm hold on the road whether you’re driving through rain, snow, or gravel, establishing a new benchmark for performance and control in the segment of pickup trucks.
Drive Systems
Four-Wheel Drive
This vehicle is equipped with advanced electric four-wheel drive (e4WD). The e4WD system delivers power to all four wheels, and the system adjusts automatically to the driving conditions. The e4WD system continuously varies the drive power to the front and rear wheels to maximize driving efficiency and improve driving dynamics. Your vehicle has exceptional driving
capability, but care must always be taken to adjust driving style to the traffic and road conditions.
Caution
Do not drive on clean, dry pavement in 4 m and 4 n (if equipped) for an extended period of time. These conditions may cause premature wear on the vehicle’s powertrain.
Driving on clean, dry pavement in 4 m or 4 n may:
Cause a vibration to be felt in the steering system.
It causes tires to wear faster.
Warning
If equipped with four-wheel drive, the vehicle will be free to roll if the transfer case is in N (Neutral), even when the shift lever is in P (Park). You or someone else could be seriously injured. Be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear — 2 m, 4 m, or 4 n — or set the parking brake before placing the transfer case in N (Neutral). See Shifting Into Park (Mechanical Shifter) or Shifting Into Park (Electronic Shifter) .
Caution
Extended high-speed operation in 4 n may damage or shorten the life of the drivetrain.
An engagement noise and bump is normal when shifting between 4 n and 4 m or N (Neutral), with the engine running.
Shifting into 4 n will turn Traction Control and StabiliTrak/Electronic Stability Control (ESC) off. See Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control .
Automatic Transfer Case
Two-Speed Transfer Case
Uplevel Shown, Base Level and Denali Similar
If equipped, the transfer case controls are used to shift into and out of four-wheel drive.
To shift the transfer case, press the desired button. The graphic in the instrument cluster will flash while a shift is in progress. The graphic displayed will change to indicate the setting requested.
When the shift is complete the graphic will stop flashing. The Driver Information Center (DIC) message turns off once the shift is complete. If the transfer case cannot complete a shift request, it will go back to its last chosen setting.
The settings are:
N (Neutral): Use only when the vehicle needs to be towed. See Recreational Vehicle Towing or Transporting a Disabled Vehicle.
2 m (Two-Wheel Drive High): Use for driving on most streets and highways. The front axle is not engaged. This setting provides the best fuel economy.
AUTO (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive): Use when road surface conditions are variable. When driving in AUTO, the front axle is engaged, and the vehicle’s power is sent to the front and rear wheels automatically based on driving conditions. This setting provides slightly lower fuel economy than 2 m.
4 m (Four-Wheel Drive High): Use this setting when extra traction is needed, such as when driving on snowy or icy roads, when off-roading, or when plowing snow.
4 n (Four-Wheel Drive Low): This setting engages the front axle and delivers extra torque. Choose 4 n when driving off-road in deep sand, deep mud, or deep snow, and while climbing or descending steep hills.
While driving in 4 n, keep vehicle speed below 72 km/h (45 mph).
Shifting into 4 n will turn Traction Control and StabiliTrak/ESC off. See Traction Control/ Electronic Stability Control.
Shifts between 2m, 4 m, and AUTO
Any of these shifts can be made at normal driving speed.
The actual 4×4 shift request is only made after the button is released. The 4×4 graphic will remain flashing until the shift request has been completed. A DIC message displays to indicate that the 4×4 transfer case has been requested to shift to the new desired state.
Once the 4×4 shift has been completed, the DIC message disappears, the 4×4 graphic stops flashing, and the current setting is indicated.
When a shift to 2 m is completed successfully while in P (Park), the parking brake will engage. To resume driving, shift the transmission to the desired gear and manually release the parking brake or press the accelerator pedal to begin driving. See Electric Parking Brake.
If equipped, use 4 n, AUTO, or 4 m to provide additional traction when parking on a steep grade with poor traction such as ice, snow, mud, or gravel.
Shifting Into 4 n
- The ignition must be on and the vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 5 km/h (3 mph) with the transmission in N (Neutral). It is best for the vehicle to be moving 1.6 to 3.2 km/h (1 to 2 mph).
- Press 4 n. The actual 4×4 shift request is only made after the button is released. The 4×4 graphic will remain flashing until the shift request has been completed.
If vehicle speed is higher when shift request occurs, a DIC message displays. Reduce vehicle speed.
If the transmission is not in N (Neutral) when shift request occurs, a DIC message displays. The vehicle will allow 20 seconds for the shift to occur. After this time, a graphic in the instrument cluster will indicate that the transfer case is in 4 n.
Caution
Shifting the transmission into gear before the requested mode indicator light has stopped flashing could damage the transfer case.
If the transmission is not shifted into N (Neutral) or the vehicle has not slowed to 5 km/h (3 mph) within 20 seconds, the transfer case will remain in its original state.
This will be indicated in the instrument cluster.
With the vehicle moving less than 5 km/h (3 mph) and the transmission in N (Neutral), attempt the shift again.
Shifting Out of 4 n
- The vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 5 km/h (3 mph) with the transmission in N (Neutral) and the ignition on. It is best for the vehicle to be moving 1.6 to 3.2 km/h (1 to 2 mph).
- Press 4 m, AUTO, or 2 m. The actual 4×4 shift request is only made after the button is released. The 4×4 graphic will remain flashing until the shift request has been completed. A DIC message displays to indicate the state of the request. Once the 4×4 shift has been completed, the DIC message disappears, the 4×4 graphic stops flashing, and the current setting is indicated.
If vehicle speed is higher when shift request occurs, a DIC message displays. Reduce vehicle speed.
If the transmission is not in N (Neutral)
when a shift request occurs, DIC messages will display. The vehicle will allow 20 seconds for this shift to occur. After this time, a graphic in the instrument cluster will indicate that the transfer case is in 4 n.
Caution
Shifting the transmission into gear before the requested mode indicator light has stopped flashing could damage the transfer case.
If the transmission is not shifted into N (Neutral) or the vehicle has not slowed to 5 km/h (3 mph) within 20 seconds, the transfer case will remain in its original state.
This will be indicated in the instrument cluster.
With the vehicle moving less than 5 km/h (3 mph), and the transmission in N (Neutral), attempt the shift again.
A DIC message displays to indicate that the 4×4 transfer case has been requested to shift to the new desired state.
Once the 4×4 shift has been completed, the DIC message disappears, the 4×4 graphic stops flashing and the current setting is indicated.
Shifting Into N (Neutral)|
To shift into N (Neutral):
- Start the vehicle.
- Shift the transmission to N (Neutral).
- Shift the transfer case to 2 m.
- Apply the parking brake and/or brake pedal.
- Press 2 m five times in 10 seconds until the N (Neutral) graphic starts flashing in the instrument cluster. When the shift is complete, the graphic stops flashing.
If the parking brake and/or brake pedal is not applied within 20 seconds, the transfer case will remain in the original state. - If the transmission is not shifted into N (Neutral) or the vehicle has not slowed to 5 km/h (3 mph) within 20 seconds, the transfer case will remain in its original state. This will be indicated in the instrument cluster.
Shifting Out of N (Neutral)
To shift out of N (Neutral):
- Start the vehicle.
- Set the parking brake. See Electric
- Shift the transmission to N (Neutral).
- Shift the transfer case to 2 m. Transfer case shifts out of N (Neutral) can only be made into 2 m. When the shift to 2 m is complete, the graphic in the instrument cluster will stop flashing. If the transfer case cannot complete a shift, the graphic will return to the previously selected setting.
Torque Vectoring
If equipped, the torque vectoring feature of e4WD enhances vehicle performance by biasing drive torque to the optimal wheel(s). The vehicle e4WD settings may be customized for the driver mode selected. See Driver Mode Control for more information.
Single Speed Transfer Case
Work Truck and Custom
Uplevel Shown, Base Level Similar
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) helps prevent a braking skid and maintain steering while braking hard If equipped, the transfer case controls are used to shift into and out of four-wheel drive.
To shift the transfer case, press the desired button. The graphic in the instrument cluster will flash while a shift is in progress.
The graphic displayed will change to indicate the setting requested.
When the shift is complete the graphic will stop flashing. The DIC message turns off once the shift is complete. If the transfer case cannot complete a shift request, it will go back to its last chosen setting.
The settings are:
2 m (Two-Wheel Drive High): Use for driving on most streets and highways. The front axle is not engaged. This setting provides the best fuel economy.
4 m (Four-Wheel Drive High): Use this setting when extra traction is needed, such as when driving on snowy or icy roads, when off-roading, or when plowing snow.
AUTO (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive) Use when road surface conditions are variable. When driving in AUTO, the front axle is engaged, and the vehicle’s power is sent to the front and rear wheels automatically based on driving conditions.
This setting provides slightly lower fuel economy than 2 m.
Shifts between 2 m, 4 m, and AUTO
Any of these shifts can be made at normal driving speed.
The actual 4×4 shift request is only made after the button is released. The 4×4 graphic will remain flashing until the shift request has completed. A DIC message displays.
Once the 4×4 shift has been completed, the DIC message disappears, the 4×4 graphic stops flashing, and the current setting is indicated.
FAQs
The AWD system in the 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 is a drivetrain configuration that distributes power autonomously to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability on a variety of road surfaces.
AWD is typically an always-on system that manages power distribution automatically, whereas 4WD requires manual engagement and may be utilized in more extreme off-road conditions.
All-wheel drive enhances traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces, making it excellent for driving in inclement weather and light off-road conditions.
The AWD system on the 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 is typically automatic and cannot be converted manually to 2WD.
The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system in the 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 is typically always active, consistently adjusting power distribution for optimal performance.
All-wheel drive provides enhanced traction and stability, which can increase a vehicle’s ability to tow heavy loads or transport payloads in challenging conditions.
Although the AWD system is not as durable as a dedicated 4WD system, it is adequate for light off-road driving and can effectively handle gravel roads and rough terrain.
The specific AWD technology may differ, but it typically employs a system that continuously monitors wheel slippage and distributes power between the front and rear wheels as required.
All-wheel drive can have a slight impact on fuel economy compared to two-wheel drive, but the difference is typically negligible for daily transportation.
All-wheel drive increases a vehicle’s stability and control in wet, snowy, and icy conditions, reducing the risk of sliding and enhancing handling.
The AWD system on the 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 lacks a “locking” function, as it is designed for on-road and light off-road use.
AWD systems should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure proper functionality, but they typically do not require frequent servicing.
AWD availability may vary by trim level and options; therefore, it is recommended to verify with a GMC dealership regarding trim availability.
On dry pavement, the AWD system provides general stability and can enhance acceleration and cornering.
If you experience problems with the AWD system, it is recommended that you consult the owner’s manual and contact a GMC dealership for diagnostics and repairs.
Useful Link
View Full PDF : GMC Sierra LD 1500 2023 User Guide| Auto User Guide
Information Displays : 2023 GMC Sierra LD 1500 Information Displays Guide