RAM 5500 Chassis Cab (2021 year). Manual in english — page 7

106

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

NOTE:



The charging system is independent from

load reduction. The charging system

performs a diagnostic on the charging

system continuously.



If the Battery Charge Warning Light is on it

may indicate a problem with the charging

system

Ú

page 108.

The electrical loads that may be switched off

(if equipped), and vehicle functions which can

be affected by load reduction:



Heated Seats/Vented Seats/Heated Wheel



Rear Defroster And Heated Mirrors



HVAC System



115 Volt AC Power Inverter System



Audio and Telematics System

Loss of the battery charge may indicate one or

more of the following conditions:



The charging system cannot deliver enough

electrical power to the vehicle system because

the electrical loads are larger than the capa

-

bility of charging system. The charging system

is still functioning properly.



Turning on all possible vehicle electrical

loads (e.g. HVAC to max settings, exterior

and interior lights, overloaded power outlets

+12 Volts, 115 Volt AC, USB ports) during

certain driving conditions (city driving,

towing, frequent stopping).



Installing options like additional lights,

upfitter electrical accessories, audio

systems, alarms and similar devices.



Unusual driving cycles (short trips separated

by long parking periods).



The vehicle was parked for an extended

period of time (weeks, months).



The battery was recently replaced and was

not charged completely.



The battery was discharged by an electrical

load left on when the vehicle was parked.



The battery was used for an extended period

with the engine not running to supply radio,

lights, chargers, +12 Volt portable appli

-

ances like vacuum cleaners, game consoles

and similar devices.

What to do when an electrical load reduction

action message is present (“Battery Saver On”

or “Battery Saver Mode”)
During a trip:



Reduce power to unnecessary loads if

possible:



Turn off redundant lights (interior or exterior).



Check what may be plugged in to power

outlets +12 Volts, 115 Volt AC, USB ports.



Check HVAC settings (blower, temperature).



Check the audio settings (volume).

After a trip:



Check if any aftermarket equipment was

installed (additional lights, upfitter electrical

accessories, audio systems, alarms) and

review specifications if any (load and Ignition

Off Draw currents).



Evaluate the latest driving cycles (distance,

driving time and parking time).



The vehicle should have service performed if the

message is still present during consecutive trips

and the evaluation of the vehicle and driving

pattern did not help to identify the cause.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

107

WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES

The warning/indicator lights will illuminate in the

instrument panel together with a dedicated

message and/or acoustic signal when

applicable. These indications are indicative

and precautionary and as such must not be

considered as exhaustive. Always refer to the

information in this chapter in the event of a

failure indication. All active telltales will display

first if applicable. The system check menu may

appear different based upon equipment options

and current vehicle status. Some telltales are

optional and may not appear.

R

ED

W

ARNING

L

IGHTS

Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light

This warning light indicates when

the driver or passenger seat belt is

unbuckled. When the ignition is first

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

position and if the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled,

a chime will sound and the light will turn on.

When driving, if the driver or front passenger seat

belt remains unbuckled, the Seat Belt Reminder

Light will flash or remain on continuously and a

chime will sound

Ú

page 292.

Air Bag Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate to

indicate a fault with the air bag, and

will turn on for four to eight seconds

as a bulb check when the ignition

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

position. This light will illuminate with a single

chime when a fault with the air bag has been

detected, it will stay on until the fault is cleared.

If the light is not on during startup, stays on,

or turns on while driving, have the system

inspected at an authorized dealer as soon as

possible.

Brake Warning Light

This warning light monitors various

brake functions, including brake fluid

level and parking brake application.

If the brake light turns on it may

indicate that the parking brake is applied, that

the brake fluid level is low, or that there is a

problem with the Anti-Lock Brake System

reservoir.
If the light remains on when the parking brake

has been disengaged, and the fluid level is at

the full mark on the master cylinder reservoir,

it indicates a possible brake hydraulic system

malfunction or that a problem with the Brake

Booster has been detected by the Anti-Lock

Brake System (ABS) / Electronic Stability

Control (ESC) system. In this case, the light

will remain on until the condition has been

corrected. If the problem is related to the brake

booster, the ABS pump will run when applying

the brake, and a brake pedal pulsation may be

felt during each stop.
The dual brake system provides a reserve

braking capacity in the event of a failure to a

portion of the hydraulic system. A leak in either

half of the dual brake system is indicated by the

Brake Warning Light, which will turn on when

the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has

dropped below a specified level.
The light will remain on until the cause is

corrected.

NOTE:

The light may flash momentarily during sharp

cornering maneuvers, which change fluid level

conditions. The vehicle should have service

performed, and the brake fluid level checked.

If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is

necessary.

3

108

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake

System (ABS) are also equipped with Electronic

Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of

an EBD failure, the Brake Warning Light will turn

on along with the ABS Light. Immediate repair to

the ABS system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be

checked by turning the ignition switch from the

OFF position to the ON/RUN position. The light

should illuminate for approximately two seconds.

The light should then turn off unless the parking

brake is applied or a brake fault is detected. If the

light does not illuminate, have the light inspected

by an authorized dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking

brake is applied with the ignition switch in the

ON/RUN position.

NOTE:

This light shows only that the parking brake is

applied. It does not show the degree of brake

application.

Hood Open Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate when

the hood is ajar/open and not fully

closed.

NOTE:

If the vehicle is moving, there will also be a

single chime.

Vehicle Security Warning Light — If

Equipped

This light will flash at a fast rate for

approximately 15 seconds when the

vehicle security alarm is arming, and

then will flash slowly until the vehicle

is disarmed.

Engine Coolant Temperature Warning

Light

This warning light warns of an

overheated engine condition. If the

engine coolant temperature is too

high, this indicator will illuminate and

a single chime will sound. If the temperature

reaches the upper limit, a continuous chime will

sound for four minutes or until the engine is

able to cool, whichever comes first.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over

and stop the vehicle. If the Air Conditioning

(A/C) system is on, turn it off. Also, shift the

transmission into NEUTRAL and idle the vehicle.

If the temperature reading does not return to

normal, turn the engine off immediately and call

for service

Ú

page 346.

Battery Charge Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate when

the battery is not charging properly.

If it stays on while the engine is

running, there may be a malfunction

with the charging system. Contact an

authorized dealer as soon as possible.
This indicates a possible problem with the

electrical system or a related component.

Oil Pressure Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate to

indicate low engine oil pressure. If the

light turns on while driving, stop the

vehicle, shut off the engine as soon as

possible, and contact an authorized dealer.

A chime will sound when this light turns on.

WARNING!

Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is

dangerous. Part of the brake system may

have failed. It will take longer to stop the

vehicle. You could have a collision. Have the

vehicle checked immediately.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

109

Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is

corrected. This light does not indicate how

much oil is in the engine. The engine oil level

must be checked under the hood.

Oil Temperature Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate to

indicate the engine oil temperature is

high. If the light turns on while driving,

stop the vehicle and shut off the

engine as soon as possible. Wait for oil

temperature to return to normal levels.

Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning

Light

This warning light will illuminate to

indicate a problem with the ETC

system. If a problem is detected while

the vehicle is running, the light will

either stay on or flash depending on the nature

of the problem. Cycle the ignition when the

vehicle is safely and completely stopped and

the transmission is placed in the PARK position.

The light should turn off. If the light remains

on with the vehicle running, your vehicle will

usually be drivable; however, see an authorized

dealer for service as soon as possible.

NOTE:

This light may turn on if the accelerator and

brake pedals are pressed at the same time.

If the light continues to flash when the vehicle is

running, immediate service is required and you

may experience reduced performance, an

elevated/rough idle, or engine stall and your

vehicle may require towing. The light will come

on when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or

ACC/ON/RUN position and remain on briefly as

a bulb check. If the light does not come on

during starting, have the system checked by an

authorized dealer.

Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault

Warning Light

This warning light will turn on when

there's a fault with the EPS system

Ú

page 163.

Trailer Brake Disconnected Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate when

the Trailer Brake has been

disconnected

Ú

page 200.

Transmission Temperature Warning

Light — If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate to

warn of a high transmission fluid

temperature. This may occur with

strenuous usage such as trailer

towing. If this light turns on, stop the vehicle and

run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the

transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL, until the

light turns off. Once the light turns off, you may

continue to drive normally.

WARNING!

Continued operation with reduced assist

could pose a safety risk to yourself and

others. Service should be obtained as soon

as possible.

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.

3

110

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Door Open Warning Light

This indicator will illuminate when a

door is ajar/open and not fully closed.

NOTE:

If the vehicle is moving there will also be a single

chime.

Y

ELLOW

W

ARNING

L

IGHTS

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Fault

Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate to

indicate a fault in the ACC system.

Contact a local authorized dealer for

service

Ú

page 166.

Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator

Warning Light (MIL)

The Engine Check/Malfunction

Indicator Light (MIL) is a part of an

Onboard Diagnostic System called

OBD II that monitors engine and

automatic transmission control systems. This

warning light will illuminate when the ignition

is in the ON/RUN position before engine start.

If the bulb does not come on when turning the

ignition switch from OFF to ON/RUN, have the

condition checked promptly.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing

gas cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate

the light after engine start. The vehicle should

be serviced if the light stays on through several

typical driving styles. In most situations, the

vehicle will drive normally and will not require

towing.
When the engine is running, the MIL may flash

to alert serious conditions that could lead to

immediate loss of power or severe catalytic

converter damage. The vehicle should be

serviced by an authorized dealer as soon as

possible if this occurs.

CAUTION!

Continuous driving with the Transmission

Temperature Warning Light illuminated will

eventually cause severe transmission

damage or transmission failure.

WARNING!

A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as

referenced above, can reach higher

temperatures than in normal operating

conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive

slowly or park over flammable substances

such as dry plants, wood, cardboard, etc.

This could result in death or serious injury to

the driver, occupants or others.

CAUTION!

Prolonged driving with the Malfunction

Indicator Light (MIL) on could cause damage

to the vehicle control system. It also could

affect fuel economy and driveability. If the

MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter

damage and power loss will soon occur.

Immediate service is required.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

111

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active

Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light will indicate when

the ESC system is Active. The ESC

Indicator Light in the instrument

cluster will come on when the ignition

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

position, and when ESC is activated. It should go

out with the engine running. If the ESC Indicator

Light comes on continuously with the engine

running, a malfunction has been detected in

the ESC system. If this warning light remains

on after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle

has been driven several miles (kilometers) at

speeds greater than 30 mph (48 km/h), see an

authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the

problem diagnosed and corrected.



The ESC OFF Indicator Light and the ESC Indi

-

cator Light come on momentarily each time

the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or

ACC/ON/RUN position.



The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking

sounds when it is active. This is normal; the

sounds will stop when ESC becomes inactive.



This light will come on when the vehicle is in

an ESC event.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF

Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light indicates the ESC is

off.

Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN or

ACC/ON/RUN, the ESC system will be on, even

if it was turned off previously.

Low Washer Fluid Warning Light — If

Equipped

This warning light will illuminate when

the windshield washer fluid is low

Ú

page 364.

Low Fuel Warning Light

When the fuel level reaches

approximately 3.2 gal (12 L) this light

will turn on, and remain on until fuel is

added.

A single warning chime will sound with Low Fuel

Warning.

Low Coolant Level Warning Light

This telltale will turn on to indicate

the vehicle coolant level is low

Ú

page 367.

Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning Light — If

Equipped

This warning light will illuminate when

the fuel filler cap is loose. Properly

close the filler cap to disengage the

light. If the light does not turn off,

please see an authorized dealer.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Warning Light — If Equipped

The warning light switches on and a

message is displayed to indicate that

the tire pressure is lower than the

recommended value and/or that slow

pressure loss is occurring. In these cases,

optimal tire duration and fuel consumption may

not be guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition

mentioned above, the display will show the

indications corresponding to each tire.

3

112

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Each tire, including the spare (if provided),

should be checked monthly when cold and

inflated to the inflation pressure recommended

by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle

placard or tire inflation pressure label. If your

vehicle has tires of a different size than the size

indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation

pressure label, you should determine the

proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has

been equipped with a TPMS that illuminates

a low tire pressure telltale when one or more

of your tires is significantly underinflated.

Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale

illuminates, you should stop and check your

tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to

the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly

underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat

and can lead to tire failure. Under inflation also

reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and

may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping

ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for

proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s

responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure,

even if under inflation has not reached the level

to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire

pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS

malfunction indicator to indicate when the

system is not operating properly. The TPMS

malfunction indicator is combined with the

low tire pressure telltale. When the system

detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for

approximately one minute and then remain

continuously illuminated. This sequence will

continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups

as long as the malfunction exists. When the

malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system

may not be able to detect or signal low tire

pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may

occur for a variety of reasons, including the

installation of replacement or alternate tires or

wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from

functioning properly. Always check the TPMS

malfunction telltale after replacing one or more

tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the

replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow

the TPMS to continue to function properly.

CAUTION!

Do not continue driving with one or more

flat tires as handling may be compromised.

Stop the vehicle, avoiding sharp braking and

steering. If a tire puncture occurs, repair

immediately using the dedicated tire repair

kit and contact an authorized dealer as soon

as possible.

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.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

113

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 Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Light — If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate to

indicate a fault in the Forward Collision

Warning System. Contact an authorized

dealer for service

Ú

page 281.

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.

Cruise Control Fault Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate to

indicate the Cruise Control System is

not functioning properly and service is

required. Contact an authorized dealer.

Y

ELLOW

I

NDICATOR

L

IGHTS

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Off

Indicator Light — If Equipped

This indicator light illuminates to

indicate that Forward Collision

Warning is off

Ú

page 281.

TOW/HAUL Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate

when TOW/HAUL mode is selected.

Trailer Merge Assist Indicator Light — If

Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate to

indicate when Trailer Merge Assist

has been activated.

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.

Snowplow Mode Indicator Light — If

Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate

when Snowplow Mode has been

activated

Ú

page 212.

3

114

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Cold Ambient Derate Mode Indicator

Light — If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate

when a derate (engine power

reduction) is activated for protection

of the turbocharger in cold ambient

temperatures.

Diesel Exhaust Brake Indicator Light — If

Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate

when the Diesel Exhaust Brake has

been activated, and is in full strength

mode

Ú

page 138.

4WD Lock Indicator Light

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 153.

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 153.

4WD High Indicator Light — If Equipped

This light alerts the driver that the

vehicle is in the 4WD High mode.

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.

Low Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Indicator

Light — If Equipped

The Low DEF Indicator will illuminate if

the vehicle is low on DEF

Ú

page 379.

Wait To Start Light — If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate for

approximately two seconds when the

ignition is turned to the RUN position.

Its duration may be longer based on

colder operating conditions. Vehicle will not

initiate start until telltale is no longer displayed

Ú

page 122.

NOTE:

The “Wait To Start” telltale may not illuminate if the

intake manifold temperature is warm enough.

Water In Fuel Indicator Light — If Equipped

The “Water In Fuel Indicator Light”

will illuminate when there is water

detected in the fuel filter. If this light

remains on, DO NOT start the vehicle

before you drain the water from the fuel filter to

prevent engine damage

Ú

page 375.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

115

G

REEN

I

NDICATOR

L

IGHTS

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With

Target Light — If Equipped

This will display when the ACC is set

and a the vehicle in front is detected

Ú

page 166.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With

No Target Detected Indicator Light — If

Equipped

This light will turn on when the

Adaptive Cruise Control is SET and

there is no vehicle in front detected

Ú

page 166.

Automatic Diesel Exhaust Brake Indicator

Light — If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate

when the Diesel Exhaust Brake has

been activated, and has switched to

Automatic mode

Ú

page 164.

ECO Mode Indicator Light — If Equipped

This light will turn on when ECO Mode

is active.

Park/Headlight On Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate

when the park lights or headlights are

turned on.

Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate

when the front fog lights are on.

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.



If equipped with fog lamps, the fog lamp on

the side of the activated turn signal will also

illuminate to provide additional light when

turning.

Cruise Control Set Indicator Light — If

Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate

when the cruise control is set to the

desired speed

Ú

page 164.

W

HITE

I

NDICATOR

L

IGHTS

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Ready

Light — If Equipped

This light will illuminate when the

vehicle equipped with ACC has been

turned on but not set

Ú

page 166.

Cruise Control Ready Indicator

This indicator light will illuminate

when the cruise control is ready, but

not set

Ú

page 164.

Set Speed Display

The Set Speed Display indicator light

indicates the set speed for the Speed

Control and ACC settings.

3

116

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

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 an 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 220.

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 acci

-

dent involving serious injury or death.



Access, or allow others to access, infor

-

mation stored in your vehicle systems,

including personal information.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

117

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.

NOTE:

If you crank or start the engine, you will have to

start this test over.

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.

3

118

(Continued)

STARTING AND OPERATING

STARTING THE ENGINE — GASOLINE

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 few

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.



If equipped with an eight-speed transmis

-

sion, starting the vehicle in NEUTRAL is not

possible unless the Manual Park Release has

been activated. For the Manual Park Release

operation information

Ú

page 348.

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.

K

EYLESS

E

NTER

-N-G

O

— I

GNITION

This feature allows the driver to operate the

ignition switch with the push of a button, as long

as the Remote Start/Keyless Enter-N-Go key

fob is in the passenger compartment.

WARNING!



When leaving the vehicle, always make

sure the keyless ignition node is in the OFF

mode, 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 chil

-

dren, and do not leave the ignition of a

vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go

in the ACC or ON/RUN mode. 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!

(Continued)

STARTING AND OPERATING

119

N

ORMAL

S

TARTING

U

SING

ENGINE

START/STOP B

UTTON

To Turn On The Engine Using The ENGINE

START/STOP Button

1. The transmission must be in PARK.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal while

pushing the ENGINE START/STOP button

once.

3. The system takes over and attempts to start

the vehicle. If the vehicle fails to start, the

starter will disengage automatically after

10 seconds.

4. If you wish to stop the cranking of the

engine prior to the engine starting, push the

ENGINE START/STOP button again.

NOTE:

Normal starting of either a cold or a warm

engine is obtained without pumping or pressing

the accelerator pedal.

To Turn Off The Engine Using ENGINE

START/STOP Button

1. Place the gear selector in PARK, then push

and release the ENGINE START/STOP button.

2. The ignition will return to the OFF mode.

3. If the gear selector is not in PARK, the

ENGINE START/STOP button must be held

for two seconds or three short pushes in a

row with the vehicle speed above 5 mph

(8 km/h) before the engine will shut off.

The ignition will remain in the ACC mode

until the gear selector is in PARK and the

button is pushed twice to the OFF mode.

4. If the gear selector is not in PARK and the

ENGINE START/STOP button is pushed once

with the vehicle speed above 5 mph (8 km/h),

the instrument cluster will display a “Vehicle

Not In Park” message and the engine will

remain running. Never leave a vehicle out of the

PARK position, or it could roll.

NOTE:

If the gear selector is not in PARK, and the

ENGINE START/STOP button is pushed once

with the vehicle speed below 5 mph (8 km/h),

the engine will shut off and the ignition will

remain in the ACC position. If vehicle speed

drops below 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h), the vehicle

may AutoPark

Ú

page 120.

ENGINE START/STOP Button Functions — With

Driver’s Foot OFF The Brake Pedal (In PARK Or

NEUTRAL Position)
The ENGINE START/STOP button operates

similar to an ignition switch. It has three modes:

OFF, ACC, and RUN. To change the ignition

modes without starting the vehicle and use the

accessories, follow these directions:

1. Start with the ignition in the OFF mode.

2. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button once

to place the ignition to the ACC mode.

3. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button a

second time to place the ignition to the

RUN mode.

4. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button a

third time to return the ignition to the OFF

mode.

4

120

STARTING AND OPERATING

(Continued)

A

UTO

P

ARK

— R

OTARY

S

HIFTER

AND

E

IGHT

S

PEED

T

RANSMISSION

O

NLY

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.

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 shifter and

an eight speed transmission



Vehicle is not in PARK



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



Ignition switched from RUN to ACC

NOTE:

For Keyless Enter-N-Go equipped vehicles, the

engine will turn off and the ignition switch will

change to ACC mode. After 30 minutes the igni

-

tion 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 shifter and

an eight 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 shifter must

be returned to “P” to select desired gear.

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" indi

-

cator 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!

(Continued)

STARTING AND OPERATING

121

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

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 shifter.

As an added precaution, always apply the

parking brake when exiting the vehicle.

If Engine Fails To Start

If the engine fails to start after you have

followed the “Normal Starting” procedure, 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.

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.

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 flash fire causing serious personal

injury.



Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle

to get it started. Vehicles equipped with an

automatic 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 345.

4