RAM 1500 Classic (2022 year). Manual in english — page 7

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

107

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning

Light

This warning light monitors the ABS. The

light will turn on when the ignition is

placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN

position and may stay on for as long as

four seconds.
If the ABS light remains on or turns on while

driving, then the Anti-Lock portion of the brake

system is not functioning and service is required as

soon as possible. However, the conventional brake

system will continue to operate normally,

assuming the Brake Warning Light is not also on.

If the ABS light does not turn on when the ignition

is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position,

have the brake system inspected by an authorized

dealer.

Service 4WD Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate to signal

a fault with the 4WD system. If the light

stays on or comes on during driving, it

means that the 4WD system is not

functioning properly and that service is required.

We recommend you drive to the nearest service

center and have the vehicle serviced immediately.

Transmission Temperature Warning Light

This light indicates that the transmission

fluid temperature is running hot. This

may occur with severe usage, such as

trailer towing. If this light turns on, safely

pull over and stop the vehicle. Then, shift the

transmission into PARK (P) and run the engine at

idle or slightly higher until the light turns off.

Y

ELLOW

I

NDICATOR

L

IGHTS

Low Fuel Indicator Light

When the fuel level reaches

approximately 3.0 gal (11.0 L) this light

will turn on, and remain on until fuel is

added.

TOW/HAUL Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate when

TOW/HAUL mode is selected

Ú

page 115.

Trailer Merge Assist Indicator Light —

If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate to

indicate when Trailer Merge Assist has

been activated

Ú

page 133.

Cargo Light — If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate when

the cargo light is activated by pushing the

cargo light button on the headlight

switch.

CAUTION!

The TPMS has been optimized for the original

equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures

and warning have been established for the tire

size equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable

system operation or sensor damage may result

when using replacement equipment that is not

of the same size, type, and/or style. Aftermarket

wheels can cause sensor damage. Using

aftermarket tire sealants may cause the Tire

Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor to

become inoperable. After using an aftermarket

tire sealant it is recommended that you take

your vehicle to an authorized dealer to have your

sensor function checked.

WARNING!

If you continue operating the vehicle when the

Transmission Temperature Warning Light is

illuminated you could cause the fluid to boil over,

come in contact with hot engine or exhaust

components and cause a fire.

CAUTION!

Continuous driving with the Transmission

Temperature Warning Light illuminated will

eventually cause severe transmission damage

or transmission failure.

3

108

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

4WD Lock Indicator Light — If Equipped

This light alerts the driver that the

vehicle is in the 4WD LOCK mode.

The front and rear driveshafts are

mechanically locked together, forcing the

front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed

Ú

page 120.

4WD Low Indicator Light — If Equipped

This light alerts the driver that the vehicle

is in the 4WD Low mode. The front and

rear driveshafts are mechanically locked

together forcing the front and rear

wheels to rotate at the same speed. Low range

provides a greater gear reduction ratio to provide

increased torque at the wheels

Ú

page 120.

4WD Indicator Light — If Equipped

This light alerts the driver that the vehicle

is in the four-wheel drive mode, and the

front and rear driveshafts are

mechanically locked together forcing the

front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed.

NEUTRAL Indicator Light — If Equipped

This light alerts the driver that the 4WD

power transfer case is in the NEUTRAL

mode and the front and rear driveshafts

are disengaged from the powertrain.

G

REEN

I

NDICATOR

L

IGHTS

Parking/Headlights On Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate when

the parking lights or headlights are

turned on

Ú

page 46.

Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate when

the front fog lights are on

Ú

page 46.

Turn Signal Indicator Lights

When the left or right turn signal is

activated, the turn signal indicator will

flash independently and the

corresponding exterior turn signal lamps

will flash. Turn signals can be activated when the

multifunction lever is moved down (left) or

up (right).

NOTE:



A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is

driven more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either

turn signal on.



Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if

either indicator flashes at a rapid rate.

Cruise Control SET Indicator Light —

If Equipped With 7 Inch Instrument Cluster

Display

This light will turn on when the cruise

control is set

Ú

page 123.

4WD AUTO Indicator Light —

If Equipped

This light alerts the driver that the vehicle

is in the four-wheel drive auto mode, and

the front axle is engaged, but the

vehicle's power is sent to the rear wheels.

Four-wheel drive will be automatically engaged

when the vehicle senses a loss of traction

Ú

page 120.

Stop/Start Active Indicator Light —

If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate when

the Stop/Start function is in “Autostop”

mode.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

109

W

HITE

I

NDICATOR

L

IGHTS

Cruise Control Ready Indicator

This indicator light will illuminate when

the Cruise Control is ready, but not set

Ú

page 123.

Cruise Control SET Indicator Light —

If Equipped With 3.5 Inch Instrument

Cluster Display

This light will turn on when the cruise

control is set

Ú

page 123.

B

LUE

I

NDICATOR

L

IGHTS

High Beam Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate to

indicate that the high beam headlights

are on. With the low beams activated,

push the multifunction lever forward

(toward the front of the vehicle) to turn on the high

beams. Pull the multifunction lever rearward

(toward the rear of the vehicle) to turn off the high

beams. If the high beams are off, pull the lever

toward you for a temporary high beam on, "flash to

pass" scenario.

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II

Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated

Onboard Diagnostic system called OBD II.

This system monitors the performance of the

emissions, engine, and transmission control

systems. When these systems are operating

properly, your vehicle will provide excellent

performance and fuel economy, as well as engine

emissions well within current government

regulations.
If any of these systems require service, the OBD II

system will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light

(MIL). It will also store diagnostic codes and other

information to assist your service technician in

making repairs. Although your vehicle will usually

be drivable and not need towing, see an authorized

dealer for service as soon as possible.

O

NBOARD

D

IAGNOSTIC

S

YSTEM

(OBD II)

C

YBERSECURITY

Your vehicle is required to have OBD II and a

connection port to allow access to information

related to the performance of your emissions

controls. Authorized service technicians may need

to access this information to assist with the

diagnosis and service of your vehicle and

emissions system

Ú

page 149.

CAUTION!



Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause

further damage to the emission control

system. It could also affect fuel economy and

driveability. The vehicle must be serviced

before any emissions tests can be performed.



If the MIL is flashing while the vehicle is

running, severe catalytic converter damage

and power loss will soon occur. Immediate

service is required.

WARNING!



ONLY an authorized service technician should

connect equipment to the OBD II connection

port in order to read the VIN, diagnose, or

service your vehicle.



If unauthorized equipment is connected to the

OBD II connection port, such as a

driver-behavior tracking device, it may:



Be possible that vehicle systems,

including safety related systems, could be

impaired or a loss of vehicle control could

occur that may result in an accident

involving serious injury or death.



Access, or allow others to access, infor

-

mation stored in your vehicle systems,

including personal information.

3

110

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND

MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS

In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to

pass an inspection of your vehicle's emissions

control system. Failure to pass could prevent

vehicle registration.

For states that require an Inspection and

Maintenance (I/M), this check verifies

the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is

functioning and is not on when the

engine is running, and that the OBD II system is

ready for testing.
Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The OBD II

system may not be ready if your vehicle was recently

serviced, recently had a depleted battery or a battery

replacement. If the OBD II system should be

determined not ready for the I/M test, your vehicle

may fail the test.

Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated test,

which you can use prior to going to the test station.

To check if your vehicle's OBD II system is ready,

you must do the following:
1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON position,

but do not crank or start the engine.

2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to the

ON position, you will see the Malfunction

Indicator Light (MIL) symbol come on as part of

a normal bulb check.

3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two

things will happen:



The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds and

then return to being fully illuminated until

you turn OFF the ignition or start the engine.

This means that your vehicle's OBD II

system is not ready and you should not

proceed to the I/M station.



The MIL will not flash at all and will remain

fully illuminated until you place the ignition

in the off position or start the engine. This

means that your vehicle's OBD II system is

ready and you can proceed to the I/M

station.

If your OBD II system is not ready, you should see

an authorized dealer or repair facility. If your

vehicle was recently serviced or had a battery

failure or replacement, you may need to do nothing

more than drive your vehicle as you normally would

in order for your OBD II system to update. A

recheck with the above test routine may then

indicate that the system is now ready.
Regardless of whether your vehicle's OBD II system

is ready or not, if the MIL is illuminated during

normal vehicle operation you should have your

vehicle serviced before going to the I/M station.

The I/M station can fail your vehicle because the

MIL is on with the engine running.

111

(Continued)

STARTING AND OPERATING

STARTING THE ENGINE

Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat,

adjust both inside and outside mirrors, and fasten

your seat belt.
The starter should not be operated for more than

10-second intervals. Waiting a 10 to 15 seconds

between such intervals will protect the starter from

overheating.

A

UTOMATIC

T

RANSMISSION

Start the engine with the transmission in the PARK

position. Apply the brake before shifting into any

driving range.

NOTE:



This vehicle is equipped with a transmission

shift interlocking system. The brake pedal must

be pressed to shift out of PARK.



Starting the vehicle in NEUTRAL is not possible

unless the Manual Park Release has been acti

-

vated

Ú

page 279.

T

IP

S

TART

F

EATURE

Do not press the accelerator. Place the ignition

switch briefly to the START position and release it.

The starter motor will continue to run and will

automatically disengage when the engine is

running.

A

UTO

P

ARK

AutoPark is a supplemental feature to assist in

placing the vehicle in PARK should the situations

on the following pages occur. It is a back up system

and should not be relied upon as the primary

method by which the driver shifts the vehicle

into PARK.
The conditions under which AutoPark will engage

are outlined on the following pages.

WARNING!



When leaving the vehicle, always make sure

the keyless ignition node is in the OFF posi

-

tion, remove the key fob from the vehicle and

lock the vehicle.



Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing chil

-

dren to be in a vehicle unattended is

dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or

others could be seriously or fatally injured.

Children should be warned not to touch the

parking brake, brake pedal or the gear

selector.



Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle,

or in a location accessible to children, and do

not leave the ignition of a vehicle equipped

with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ in the ACC or ON/

RUN position. A child could operate power

windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.



Do not leave children or animals inside parked

vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat build-up

may cause serious injury or death.

WARNING!

4

112

STARTING AND OPERATING

If the vehicle is not in PARK and the driver turns off

the engine, the vehicle may AutoPark.
AutoPark will engage when all of these conditions

are met:



Vehicle is equipped with a rotary gear selector

and an 8-speed transmission



Vehicle is not in PARK



Vehicle speed is 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h) or less



Ignition is switched from ON/RUN to ACC

NOTE:

For Keyless Enter ’n Go™ equipped vehicles, the

engine will turn off and the ignition switch will

change to ACC position. After 30 minutes the

ignition switches to OFF automatically, unless the

driver turns the ignition switch OFF.
If the vehicle is not in PARK and the driver exits the

vehicle with the engine running, the vehicle may

AutoPark.
AutoPark will engage when all of these conditions

are met:



Vehicle is equipped with a rotary gear selector

and an 8-speed transmission



Vehicle is not in PARK



Vehicle speed is 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h) or less



Driver’s seat belt is unbuckled



Driver’s door is ajar



Brake pedal is not pressed

The message “AutoPark Engaged Shift to P then

Shift to Gear” will display in the instrument cluster.

NOTE:

In some cases the ParkSense graphic will be

displayed in the instrument cluster, causing the

“AutoPark Engaged Shift to P then Shift to Gear” to

not be seen. In these cases, the gear selector must

be returned to “P” to select desired gear.

If the driver shifts into PARK while moving, the

vehicle may AutoPark.
AutoPark will engage ONLY when vehicle speed is

1.2 mph (1.9 km/h) or less.
The message “Vehicle Speed is Too High to Shift to

P” will be displayed in the instrument cluster if

vehicle speed is above 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h).

4WD LOW — If Equipped
AutoPark will be disabled when operating the

vehicle in 4WD LOW.
The message “AutoPark Disabled” will be

displayed in the instrument cluster.
Additional customer warnings will be given when

all of these conditions are met:



Vehicle is not in PARK



Driver’s door is ajar



Vehicle is in 4WD LOW range

WARNING!



Driver inattention could lead to failure to place

the vehicle in PARK. ALWAYS DO A VISUAL

CHECK that your vehicle is in PARK by verifying

that a solid (not blinking) “P” is indicated in

the instrument cluster display and near the

gear selector. If the "P" indicator is blinking,

your vehicle is not in PARK. As an added

precaution, always apply the parking brake

when exiting the vehicle.



AutoPark is a supplemental feature. It is not

designed to replace the need to shift your

vehicle into PARK. It is a back up system and

should not be relied upon as the primary

method by which the driver shifts the vehicle

into PARK.

WARNING!

If vehicle speed is above 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h), the

transmission will default to NEUTRAL until the

vehicle speed drops below 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h).

A vehicle left in the NEUTRAL position can roll. As

an added precaution, always apply the parking

brake when exiting the vehicle.

STARTING AND OPERATING

113

The message “AutoPark Not Engaged” will be

displayed in the instrument cluster. A warning

chime will continue until you shift the vehicle into

PARK or the driver’s door is closed.
ALWAYS DO A VISUAL CHECK that your vehicle is in

PARK by looking for the "P" in the instrument

cluster display and near the gear selector. As an

added precaution, always apply the parking brake

when exiting the vehicle.

I

F

E

NGINE

F

AILS

T

O

S

TART

If the engine fails to start after you have followed

the “Normal Starting” procedure and has not

experienced an extended parking condition (i.e.,

parked for more than 30 days), it may be flooded.

Push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor

and hold it there while the engine is cranking. This

should clear any excess fuel in case the engine is

flooded.
The starter motor will engage automatically, run for

10 seconds, and then disengage. Once this occurs,

release the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal,

wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the “Normal

Starting” procedure.

If the engine has been flooded, it may start to run,

but not have enough power to continue running

when the ignition key is released. If this occurs,

continue cranking with the accelerator pedal

pushed all the way to the floor. Release the

accelerator pedal and the ignition key once the

engine is running smoothly.
If the engine shows no sign of starting after a

10 second period of engine cranking with the

accelerator pedal held to the floor, wait 10 to

15 seconds, then repeat the “Normal Starting”

procedure.

C

OLD

W

EATHER

O

PERATION

(B

ELOW

–22°F O

R

−30°C)

To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures,

the use of an externally powered electric engine

block heater (available from an authorized dealer)

is recommended.

A

FTER

S

TARTING

The idle speed is controlled automatically, and it

will decrease as the engine warms up.

WARNING!



Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into

the throttle body air inlet opening in an

attempt to start the vehicle. This could result

in a flash fire causing serious personal injury.



Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to

get it started. Vehicles equipped with an auto

-

matic transmission cannot be started this

way. Unburned fuel could enter the catalytic

converter and once the engine has started,

ignite and damage the converter and vehicle.



If the vehicle has a discharged battery,

booster cables may be used to obtain a start

from a booster battery or the battery in

another vehicle. This type of start can be

dangerous if done improperly

Ú

page 276.

CAUTION!

To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank

the engine for more than 10 seconds at a time.

Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.

4

114

STARTING AND OPERATING

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED

The engine block heater warms the engine, and

permits quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the

cord to a standard 110-115 Volt AC electrical

outlet with a grounded, three-wire extension cord.
The engine block heater cord is routed under the

hood on the passenger side of the vehicle near the

right head lamp assembly. It is located between

the front grill and the radiator, but underneath the

black upper seal.

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

A long break-in period is not required for the engine

and drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your

vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles

(500 km). After the initial 60 miles (100 km),

speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are

desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within

the limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good

break-in. Wide-open throttle acceleration in low

gear can be detrimental and should be avoided.

The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory

is a high-quality energy conserving type lubricant.

Oil changes should be consistent with anticipated

climate conditions under which vehicle operations

will occur. For the recommended viscosity and

quality grades

Ú

page 347.

NOTE:

A new engine may consume some oil during its first

few thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This

should be considered a normal part of the break-in

and not interpreted as a problem. Please check

your oil level with the engine oil indicator often

during the break in period. Add oil as required.

PARKING BRAKE

Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the

parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to

leave the transmission in PARK.
The foot-operated parking brake is located below

the lower left corner of the instrument panel. To

apply the parking brake, firmly push the parking

brake pedal fully. To release the parking brake, pull

the parking brake release handle.

Parking Brake Release

When the parking brake is applied with the ignition

switch ON, the Brake Warning Light in the

instrument cluster will illuminate.

NOTE:



When the parking brake is applied and the

transmission is placed in gear, the Brake

Warning Light will flash. If vehicle speed is

detected, a chime will sound to alert the driver.

Fully release the parking brake before

attempting to move the vehicle.



This light only shows that the parking brake is

applied. It does not show the degree of brake

application.

WARNING!

Remember to disconnect the engine block heater

cord before driving. Damage to the 110-115 Volt

electrical cord could cause electrocution.

CAUTION!

Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral

Oil in the engine or damage may result.

STARTING AND OPERATING

115

(Continued)

(Continued)

When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the

front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade

and away from the curb on an uphill grade. Apply

the parking brake before placing the gear selector

in PARK, otherwise the load on the transmission

locking mechanism may make it difficult to move

the gear selector out of PARK. The parking brake

should always be applied whenever the driver is

not in the vehicle.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

NOTE:

You must press and hold the brake pedal while

shifting out of PARK.

WARNING!



Never use the PARK position as a substitute

for the parking brake. Always apply the

parking brake fully when parked to guard

against vehicle movement and possible injury

or damage.



Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle. Leaving unat

-

tended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a

number of reasons. A child or others could be

seriously or fatally injured.



Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle,

or in a location accessible to children, and do

not leave a vehicle equipped with Keyless

Enter ’n Go™ in the ACC or ON/RUN position.

A child could operate power windows, other

controls, or move the vehicle.



Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged

before driving; failure to do so can lead to

brake failure and a collision.



Always fully apply the parking brake when

leaving your vehicle or it may roll and cause

damage or injury. Also, be certain to leave the

transmission in PARK. Failure to do so may

cause the vehicle to roll and cause damage or

injury.

CAUTION!

If the Brake System Warning Light remains on

with the parking brake released, a brake system

malfunction is indicated. Have the brake system

serviced by an authorized dealer immediately.

WARNING!

WARNING!



It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or

NEUTRAL if the engine speed is higher than

idle speed. If your foot is not firmly pressing

the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate

quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose

control of the vehicle and hit someone or

something. Only shift into gear when the

engine is idling normally and your foot is firmly

pressing the brake pedal.



Unintended movement of a vehicle could

injure those in or near the vehicle. As with all

vehicles, you should never exit a vehicle while

the engine is running. Before exiting a vehicle,

always come to a complete stop, then apply

the parking brake, shift the transmission into

PARK, turn the engine off, and remove the key

fob. When the ignition is in the LOCK/OFF

(key removal) position, (or, with Keyless

Enter ’n Go™, when the ignition is in the

OFF position) the transmission is locked in

PARK, securing the vehicle against unwanted

movement.



When leaving the vehicle, always make sure

the ignition is in the OFF position, remove the

key fob from the vehicle, and lock the vehicle.

4

116

STARTING AND OPERATING

K

EY

I

GNITION

P

ARK

I

NTERLOCK

—

I

F

E

QUIPPED

This vehicle is equipped with a Key Ignition Park

Interlock which requires the transmission to be in

PARK before the ignition can be turned to the

LOCK/OFF (key removal) position. The key fob can

only be removed from the ignition when the ignition

is in the LOCK/OFF position, and the transmission

is locked in PARK whenever the ignition is in the

LOCK/OFF position.

NOTE:

If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the key

fob in the ignition to warn you that this safety

feature is inoperable. The engine can be started

and stopped but the key fob cannot be removed

until you obtain service.

B

RAKE

/T

RANSMISSION

S

HIFT

I

NTERLOCK

(BTSI) S

YSTEM

This vehicle is equipped with a BTSI system that

holds the transmission gear selector in PARK unless

the brakes are applied. To shift the transmission out

of PARK, the ignition must be turned to the ON/RUN

position (engine running, for vehicles with 8-speed

transmission) and the brake pedal must be pressed.
In 8-speed vehicles, the brake pedal must also be

pressed to shift from NEUTRAL into DRIVE or

REVERSE when the vehicle is stopped or moving at

low speeds.

8-S

PEED

A

UTOMATIC

T

RANSMISSION

The transmission is controlled using a rotary

electronic gear selector located on the instrument

panel. The transmission gear range (PRND) is

displayed both above the gear selector and in the

instrument cluster. To select a gear range, simply

rotate the gear selector. You must press the brake

pedal to shift the transmission out of PARK (or

NEUTRAL, when the vehicle is stopped or moving at

low speeds). To shift past multiple gear ranges at

once (such as PARK to DRIVE), simply rotate the

gear selector to the appropriate detent. Select the

DRIVE range for normal driving.



Never use the PARK position as a substitute

for the parking brake. Always apply the

parking brake fully when exiting the vehicle to

guard against vehicle movement and possible

injury or damage.



Your vehicle could move and injure you and

others if it is not in PARK. Check by trying to

move the gear selector out of PARK with the

brake pedal released. Make sure the trans

-

mission is in PARK before exiting the vehicle.



Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing chil

-

dren to be in a vehicle unattended is

dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or

others could be seriously or fatally injured.

Children should be warned not to touch the

parking brake, brake pedal or the transmis

-

sion gear selector.



Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle

(or in a location accessible to children), and do

not leave the ignition (in a vehicle equipped

with Keyless Enter ’n Go™) in the ACC or ON/

RUN position. A child could operate power

windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.

WARNING!

CAUTION!

Damage to the transmission may occur if the

following precautions are not observed:



Shift into or out of PARK or REVERSE only after

the vehicle has come to a complete stop.



Do not shift between PARK, REVERSE,

NEUTRAL, or DRIVE when the engine is above

idle speed.



Before shifting into any gear, make sure your

foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal.

STARTING AND OPERATING

117

NOTE:

In the event of a mismatch between the gear

selector position and the actual transmission gear

(for example, driver selects PARK while driving),

the position indicator will blink continuously until

the selector is returned to the proper position, or

the requested shift can be completed.
The electronically controlled transmission adapts

its shift schedule based on driver inputs, along

with environmental and road conditions. The

transmission electronics are self-calibrating;

therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle may

be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition,

and precision shifts will develop within a few

hundred miles (kilometers).
Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when

the accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is

stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on the brake

pedal when shifting between these gears.
The transmission gear selector has only PARK,

REVERSE, NEUTRAL, and DRIVE positions. Manual

downshifts can be made using the Electronic

Range Select (ERS) shift control. Pushing the

GEAR “-”/GEAR “+” switches (on the steering

wheel) while in the DRIVE position will select the

highest available transmission gear, and will

display that gear limit in the instrument cluster as

1, 2, 3, etc

Ú

page 119. Some models will display

both the selected gear limit, and the actual current

gear, while in ERS mode.

Electronic Transmission Gear Selector

Gear Ranges

Do not press the accelerator pedal when shifting

from PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range.

NOTE:

After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to

allow the selected gear to engage before acceler

-

ating. This is especially important when the engine

is cold.
PARK (P)
This range supplements the parking brake by

locking the transmission. The engine can be

started in this range. Never attempt to use PARK

while the vehicle is in motion. Apply the parking

brake when exiting the vehicle in this range.

When parking on a level surface, you may shift the

transmission into PARK first, and then apply the

parking brake.
When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake

before shifting the transmission to PARK. As an

added precaution, turn the front wheels toward the

curb on a downhill grade and away from the curb

on an uphill grade.

NOTE:

On four-wheel drive vehicles be sure that the

transfer case is in a drive position.
When exiting the vehicle, always:



Apply the parking brake.



Shift the transmission into PARK.



Turn the engine off.



Remove the key fob.

CAUTION!



DO NOT race the engine when shifting from

PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range, as

this can damage the drivetrain.



Before moving the transmission gear selector

out of PARK, you must start the engine, and

also press the brake pedal. Otherwise,

damage to the gear selector could result.

4

118

STARTING AND OPERATING

The following indicators should be used to ensure

that you have properly engaged the transmission

into the PARK position:



Look at the transmission gear position display

and verify that it indicates the PARK position,

and is not blinking.



With the brake pedal released, verify that the

gear selector will not move out of PARK.

REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.

Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has come

to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for

prolonged periods with the engine running. Apply

the parking brake and shift the transmission into

PARK if you must exit the vehicle.

DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and

highway driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts

and downshifts, and the best fuel economy. The

transmission automatically upshifts through all

forward gears. The DRIVE position provides

optimum driving characteristics under all normal

operating conditions.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such

as when operating the vehicle under heavy loading

conditions, in hilly terrain, traveling into strong

head winds, or while towing a heavy trailer), select

TOW/HAUL mode or use the Electronic Range

Select (ERS) shift control to select a lower gear

range

Ú

page 119. Under these conditions, using

a lower gear range will improve performance and

extend transmission life by reducing excessive

shifting and heat buildup.

During extremely cold temperatures

(-22°F [-30°C] or below), transmission operation

may be modified depending on engine and

transmission temperature as well as vehicle speed.

Normal operation will resume once the transmission

temperature has risen to a suitable level.

Transmission Limp Home Mode

Transmission function is monitored electronically for

abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected that

could result in transmission damage, Transmission

Limp Home mode is activated. In this mode, the

transmission may operate only in certain gears, or

may not shift at all. Vehicle performance may be

severely degraded and the engine may stall. In some

situations, the transmission may not re-engage if the

engine is turned off and restarted. The Malfunction

Indicator Light (MIL) may be illuminated. A message

in the instrument cluster will inform the driver of the

more serious conditions, and indicate what actions

may be necessary.
In the event of a momentary problem, the

transmission can be reset to regain all forward gears

by performing the following steps:

NOTE:

In cases where the instrument cluster message

indicates the transmission may not re-engage after

engine shutdown, perform this procedure only in

a desired location (preferably, at an authorized

dealer).

WARNING!

Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the

ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe

practices that limit your response to changing

traffic or road conditions. You might lose control

of the vehicle and have a collision.

CAUTION!

Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any

other reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL

can cause severe transmission damage.
For Recreational Towing

Ú

page 143.

For Towing A Disabled Vehicle

Ú

page 282.

STARTING AND OPERATING

119

1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK, if possible.

If not, shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.

3. Turn the ignition to the OFF position.

On vehicles with Keyless Enter ’n Go™, push

and hold the ignition switch until the engine

turns OFF.

4. Wait approximately 30 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the

problem is no longer detected, the

transmission will return to normal operation.

NOTE:

Even if the transmission can be reset, we

recommend that you visit an authorized dealer at

your earliest possible convenience. An authorized

dealer has diagnostic equipment to assess the

condition of your transmission.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized

dealer service is required.

Electronic Range Select (ERS) Operation

The Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control

allows the driver to limit the highest available gear

when the transmission is in DRIVE. For example, if

you set the transmission gear limit to 4 (FOURTH

gear), the transmission will not shift above

FOURTH gear, but will shift through the lower gears

normally.

You can switch between DRIVE and ERS mode at

any vehicle speed. When the transmission gear

selector is in DRIVE, the transmission will operate

automatically, shifting between all available gears.

Tapping the GEAR “-” switch (on the steering

wheel) will activate ERS mode, display the current

gear in the instrument cluster, and set that gear as

the top available gear. Once in ERS mode, tapping

the GEAR “-” or GEAR “+” switch will change the top

available gear.

Electronic Range Select (ERS)

To exit ERS mode, simply push and hold the

GEAR “+” switch until the gear limit display

disappears from the instrument cluster.

When to Use TOW/HAUL Mode

When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying

a heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission

shifting occurs, push the TOW/HAUL switch to

activate TOW/HAUL mode. This will improve

performance and reduce the potential for

transmission overheating or failure due to

excessive shifting.

TOW/HAUL Switch

1 — GEAR “-” Switch
2 — GEAR “+” Switch

WARNING!

Do not downshift for additional engine braking

on a slippery surface. The drive wheels could

lose their grip and the vehicle could skid,

causing a collision or personal injury.

4

120

STARTING AND OPERATING

(Continued)

The TOW/HAUL Indicator Light will illuminate in the

instrument cluster and a light on the switch to

indicate that TOW/HAUL mode has been activated.

Pushing the switch a second time restores normal

operation. Normal operation is always the default

at engine start-up. If TOW/HAUL mode is desired,

the switch must be pushed each time the engine is

started.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION —

IF EQUIPPED

F

OUR

-P

OSITION

E

LECTRONICALLY

-S

HIFTED

T

RANSFER

C

ASE

This is an electronically-shifted transfer case and is

operated by the 4WD Control Switch (Transfer

Case Switch), which is located on the instrument

panel.

Four-Position/On-Demand Transfer Case

This electronically-shifted transfer case provides

four positions:



Two-Wheel Drive High Range (2WD) — This

range is for normal street and highway driving

on dry hard surfaced roads. Driving the vehicle

in 2WD will have greater fuel economy benefits

as the front axle is not engaged in 2WD.



Four-Wheel Drive Lock High Range (4WD LOCK) —

This range provides torque to the front driveshaft

(engages four-wheel drive) which allows front and

rear wheels to spin at the same speed. This

provides additional traction for loose or slippery

road surfaces only.



Four-Wheel Drive Low Range (4WD LOW) —

This range provides low speed four-wheel drive.

It maximizes torque (increased torque over

4WD LOCK) to the front driveshaft; allowing

front and rear wheels to rotate at the same

speed. This range provides additional traction

and maximum pulling power for loose or slippery

road surfaces only. Do not exceed 25 mph

(40 km/h) in this range.



N (Neutral) — This range disengages both the

front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain.

To be used for flat towing behind another

vehicle

Ú

page 143.

WARNING!

Do not use the TOW/HAUL feature when driving

in icy or slippery conditions. The increased

engine braking can cause the rear wheels to

slide, and the vehicle to swing around with the

possible loss of vehicle control, which may

cause an accident possibly resulting in personal

injury or death.

WARNING!



You or others could be injured or killed if you

leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer

case in the N (Neutral) position without first

fully engaging the parking brake. The transfer

case N (Neutral) position disengages both the

front and rear drive shaft from the powertrain,

and will allow the vehicle to roll, even if the

transmission is in PARK. The parking brake

should always be applied when the driver is

not in the vehicle.

STARTING AND OPERATING

121

NOTE:



The 4WD LOCK and 4WD LOW positions are

designed for loose, slippery road surfaces only.

Driving in the 4WD LOCK and 4WD LOW posi

-

tions on dry, hard surfaced roads may cause

increased tire wear and damage to the driveline

components.



The transfer case N (Neutral) button is located

in the center of the 4WD Control Switch and is

pushed by using a ballpoint pen or similar

object. The transfer case N (Neutral) position is

to be used for recreational towing only

Ú

page 143.

Transfer Case Position Indicator Lights
The Transfer Case Position Indicator Lights (4WD

LOCK and 4WD LOW) are located in the instrument

cluster and indicate the current and desired

transfer case selection. When you select a

different transfer case position, the indicator lights

will do the following:
If all of the following shift conditions are met:
1. The current position indicator light will

turn off.

2. The selected position indicator light will flash

until the transfer case completes the shift.

3. When the shift is complete, the indicator light

for the selected position will stop flashing and

remain on.

If the transfer case does not shift into the desired

position, one or more of the following events may

occur:
1. The indicator light for the current position will

remain on.

2. The newly selected position indicator light will

continue to flash.

3. The transfer case will not shift.

NOTE:

Before retrying a selection, make certain that all

the necessary requirements for selecting a new

transfer case position have been met. To retry

the selection, push the current position, wait

five seconds, and retry selection.
The SERV 4WD Warning Light monitors the

electronically-shifted transfer case. If this light

remains on after engine start-up or illuminates

during driving, it means that the four-wheel drive

system is not functioning properly and that service

is required.

NOTE:

Do not attempt to make a shift while only the front

or rear wheels are spinning. This could cause

damage to driveline components.
When operating your vehicle in 4WD LOW, the

engine speed is approximately three times that of

the 2WD or 4WD LOCK positions at a given road

speed. Take care not to overspeed the engine and

do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h).



The transmission may not engage PARK if the

vehicle is moving. Always bring the vehicle to a

complete stop before shifting to PARK, and

verify that the transmission gear position indi

-

cator solidly indicates PARK (P) without

blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is completely

stopped, and the PARK position is properly

indicated, before exiting the vehicle.

WARNING!

WARNING!

Always engage the parking brake when powering

down the vehicle if the SERV 4WD Warning Light

is illuminated. Not engaging the parking brake

may allow the vehicle to roll which may cause

personal injury or death.

4

122

STARTING AND OPERATING

Proper operation of four-wheel drive vehicles

depends on tires of equal size, type and

circumference on each wheel. Any difference in

tire size can cause damage to the drivetrain.
Because four-wheel drive provides improved

traction, there is a tendency to exceed safe turning

and stopping speeds. Do not go faster than road

conditions permit.

Shifting Procedure

NOTE:



If any of the requirements to select a new

transfer case position have not been met, the

transfer case will not shift. The position indi

-

cator light for the previous position will remain

on and the newly selected position indicator

light will continue to flash until all the require

-

ments for the selected position have been met.



If all the requirements to select a new transfer

case position have been met, the current position

indicator light will turn off, the selected position

indicator light will flash until the transfer case

completes the shift. When the shift is complete,

the position indicator light for the selected posi

-

tion will stop flashing and remain on.

LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL

The limited-slip differential provides additional

traction on snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel,

particularly when there is a difference between the

traction characteristics of the surface under the

right and left rear wheels. During normal driving

and cornering, the limited-slip unit performs

similarly to a conventional differential. On slippery

surfaces, however, the differential delivers more of

the driving effort to the rear wheel having the

better traction.
The limited-slip differential is especially helpful

during slippery driving conditions. With both rear

wheels on a slippery surface, a slight application of

the accelerator will supply maximum traction.

When starting with only one rear wheel on an

excessively slippery surface, slight momentary

application of the parking brake may be necessary

to gain maximum traction.

Care should be taken to avoid sudden

accelerations when both rear wheels are on a

slippery surface. This could cause both rear wheels

to spin, and allow the vehicle to slide sideways on

the crowned surface of a road or in a turn.

FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY — 5.7L ENGINES

ONLY (IF EQUIPPED)

This feature offers improved fuel economy by

shutting off four of the engine's eight cylinders

during light load and cruise conditions. The system

is automatic with no driver inputs or additional

driving skills required.

NOTE:

This system may take some time to return to full

functionality after a battery disconnect.

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING

The electric power steering system will provide

increased vehicle response and ease of

maneuverability. The power steering system

adapts to different driving conditions.
If the steering icon is flashing, it indicates that the

vehicle needs to be taken to the dealer for service.

It is likely the vehicle has lost power steering

assistance.

WARNING!

On vehicles equipped with a limited-slip

differential never run the engine with one rear

wheel off the ground since the vehicle may drive

through the rear wheel remaining on the ground.

You could lose control of the vehicle.