GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

For vehicles with this feature, the locking front axle, used with the locking rear axle, can give the vehicle additional traction when traveling in off-road situations such as mud, snow, sand, steep hills and uneven terrain.


Object Number: 2045741  Size: G7

The button used to turn the locking front axle on or off is located on the instrument panel.

Before the front axle can be locked, the rear axle must be locked.

To lock the front and rear axles:

  1. Place the transfer case in the 4LO Lock mode. This is the only mode which allows the front and rear axles to lock. See Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive for more information regarding the transfer case and 4LO Lock mode.
  2. Press the rear axle locking button with the vehicle moving less than 16 mph (26 km/h).
  3. Wait for the light in the button to stop flashing and remain illuminated to show that the rear axle is locked.
  4. Press the front axle locking button with the vehicle stopped or moving less than 16 mph (26 km/h).
  5. Wait for the light in the button to stop flashing and remain illuminated to show that the front axle is locked.

Notice: If you try to lock the axle while the vehicle is stuck and the tires are spinning, the vehicle's drivetrain could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always lock the axle before attempting situations and/or navigating terrain which could possibly cause the vehicle to become stuck.

Locking axles will be disengaged when the wheel speed is greater than 40 mph (64 km/h), if the vehicle's battery is low and/or the transfer case is shifted out of 4LO Lock mode.

Notice: If the vehicle's axle is locked while driving on pavement, the drivetrain could be damaged. Repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not use the locking axle on pavement. If four-wheel drive is needed when traveling on pavement, use only 4HI.