GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Functional Test

Rear axle activation and operation may be checked by positioning the four wheels off the ground, starting the vehicle, fully applying the parking brake, and selecting the drive position.

Notice: Avoid rear differential damage. Do not exceed 20 percent accelerator pedal application or apply throttle for more than 5 seconds while the parking brake is applied.

Lightly depress the accelerator pedal while watching the rear wheels. They will rotate slightly as the drive line winds-up. This indicates the all wheel drive (AWD) is functioning.