GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

If the diesel engine stalls and you think that you have run out of fuel, do this to restart your engine:

Caution: Diesel fuel is flammable. It could start a fire if it gets on hot engine parts. You could be burned. Do not let too much fuel flow from the air bleed valve, and wipe up any spilled fuel with a cloth.

  1. If you are parked on a level surface, add at least 2 gallons (7.6 liters) of fuel. However, if you are parked on a slope, you may need to add up to 5 gallons (18.9 liters) of fuel.
  2. Follow the fuel priming procedure earlier in this section to prime the fuel filter.
  3. Close the air bleed valve.
  4. Turn the ignition key to START for 10 to 15 seconds at a time until your engine starts. If the engine tries to run, but does not run smoothly, increase the rpm a little using the accelerator pedal. This will help force air through the system.

Your check engine light may come on if the vehicle has run out of fuel. This light may stay on for a few drive cycles after the condition is corrected, but will eventually clear itself.