🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Avalanche

Year:

2011

Model Year Introduced:

2002

Body Style:

Full-size Sport Utility Truck (SUT)

Generation Code:

GMT900

Generation Years:

2007-2013

Platform:

GMT900

👋 Introduction

Segment Placement:

The 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche occupied a unique niche as a full-size Sport Utility Truck (SUT), blending the utility of a pickup truck with the comfort and versatility of an SUV.

Key Competitors:

Direct competitors included the Cadillac Escalade ESV (due to platform sharing) and other large, luxury SUVs. Indirectly, it competed with large pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 SuperCrew and Dodge Ram Mega Cab for buyers seeking cargo versatility.

Midgate System:

The signature feature was the Midgate, a fold-down mid-cabin bulkhead allowing cargo from the bed to extend into the passenger cabin, offering unparalleled flexibility for hauling long items.

Versatility:

Its unique design provided seating for up to six passengers along with an enclosed, secure cargo area.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete Owner's Manual

Specific Systems Covered:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 300-400 (typical for this model year and type of manual)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Downloadable:

Yes

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Management:

Details on engine operation, fuel, oil, coolant, and air intake systems, including general maintenance aspects.

Chassis Systems:

Information on brakes, steering, suspension, and wheels as it pertains to owner operation and basic checks.

Electrical Systems:

Covers lighting operation, instrument cluster indicators, battery maintenance, and basic electrical features.

Comfort And Convenience:

Extensive coverage of climate control, power locks, security features, power windows, and seating adjustments.

Infotainment And Connectivity:

Details on the entertainment systems, radio operation, and potentially auxiliary input/connectivity features.

Basic Maintenance:

Step-by-step instructions for routine checks like fluid levels, tire pressure, and bulb replacements.

Safety Features Operation:

Comprehensive explanation of airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems, and their proper usage.

Driving Operation:

Guidance on starting, stopping, shifting, parking, and operating various vehicle controls for optimal performance and safety.

Troubleshooting Basic:

Information on understanding warning lights and indicators, with basic guidance for common situations.

Cleaning And Care:

Instructions for interior and exterior cleaning, protecting finishes, and general upkeep.

Depth:

Owner-level, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Not a full service/repair manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF file, optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Printability:

All pages are printable.

Graphic Quality:

Contains numerous pictures and diagrams for easy comprehension.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

5.3L (323 cu in)

Engine Type:

V8, Vortec 5300

Engine Code:

LMG (FlexFuel capable)

Horsepower:

310 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Fuel System:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

Technology:

Active Fuel Management (AFM) - cylinder deactivation system

Engine Displacement:

6.0L (364 cu in)

Engine Type:

V8, Vortec 6000

Engine Code:

L76 (Discontinued mid-generation but could be optioned in early GMT900 platforms if applicable for 2011 - check specific build, typically LMG was standard)

Horsepower:

366 hp @ 5400 rpm (if equipped)

Torque:

376 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (if equipped)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive and Manual Mode

Transmission Code:

6L80E

Type:

N/A (6-speed auto was standard across the board for 2011)

Drive Modes:

Available in 2WD (RWD) and 4WD configurations.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

224.5 inches

Width:

79.1 inches

Height:

77.0 inches

Wheelbase:

130.0 inches

Bed Length Min:

63.2 inches (with Midgate closed)

Bed Length Max:

97.0 inches (with Midgate open)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

18.0 cubic feet (approx.)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

60.3 cubic feet (approx., with Midgate closed)

Curb Weight 2Wd:

5,722 lbs (approx.)

Curb Weight 4Wd:

5,926 lbs (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

7,100 lbs (approx.)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 8,400 lbs (with 5.3L engine and proper trailering package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

5-Star Driver & Passenger (for 2011 model year)

NHTSA Side Crash:

5-Star Front & Rear Passenger (for 2011 model year)

IIHS Roof Strength:

Good (for 2011 model year)

Traction Control:

Standard Electronic Traction Control (ETC)

Stability Control:

Standard StabiliTrak Stability Control System

Brakes:

Four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Rearview Camera:

Available as an option on certain trims.

Airbags:

Driver and front-passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and side-curtain airbags for all rows.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners.

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors Tethers for CHildren) system for child seat installation.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Features a standard AM/FM stereo with CD player and auxiliary audio input. Higher trims may offer upgraded Bose sound systems.

Navigation System:

Optional touch-screen navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming capabilities available on equipped models.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking assist sensors available as an option.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control for highway driving.

Remote Start:

Available as an optional feature.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil as recommended in manual for optimal performance).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000-45,000 miles depending on driving conditions).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 20,000-30,000 miles).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Refer to the manual; typically inspected every 15,000 miles, replacement intervals vary based on driving conditions (e.g., severe use may require earlier changes).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, Dexos1 (or equivalent GM specification) synthetic oil recommended.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.0 quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change (for 5.3L engine).

Coolant Type:

GM-specified orange silicate-free coolant (DEX-COOL).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Afm Lifter Noise:

The Active Fuel Management system can sometimes lead to noisy lifters or a ticking sound due to the deactivation and reactivation of cylinders. Regular oil changes with the correct oil are crucial.

Transmission Hard Shifts:

Some owners have reported occasional rough or hard shifts in the 6-speed automatic transmission. Ensuring the transmission fluid is at the correct level and quality is important.

Fuel Pump Failures:

Like many vehicles of this era, fuel pump issues can occur, often indicated by starting problems or stalling.

Humidity In Headlights:

Some models might experience condensation inside the headlight assemblies, which is often cosmetic but can be addressed per manual guidelines or by experienced technicians.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Legacy:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long-standing heritage in producing reliable and popular trucks and SUVs, known for their robustness and value.

First Generation:

The Avalanche was first introduced for the 2002 model year, built on the GMT800 platform.

Second Generation:

The second generation (GMT900) debuted for the 2007 model year, featuring a more modern design, improved interior, and updated mechanicals, including the 6-speed transmission.

Model Year 2011 Updates:

For 2011, the Avalanche received minor updates, primarily focusing on enhanced standard features and packaging. For example, side-curtain airbags became standard.

Manufacturing Plant:

Mexico (Silao Assembly Plant)

Production End Year:

2013

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Previous Award History:

While not a specific award for the 2011 model year listed in the product info, the Avalanche has historically been recognized for its unique utility and versatility in the automotive press.

Fuel Economy Rating:

EPA Estimated: 15 MPG City / 21 MPG Highway (2WD, 5.3L V8)

Emissions Certification:

Meets U.S. federal emission standards for 2011 model year vehicles.