The ESP enhances directional control and reduces driving
wheel spin of the vehicle under various driving condi-
tions. The system operates when the vehicle speed is
greater than 7.8 mph (12.6 km/h).
The ESP system corrects for over/understeering of the
vehicle by applying brakes to the appropriate wheel.
Engine torque is also limited.
The ESP warning light, located in the instru-
ment cluster, starts to flash as soon as the ESP
system sensor’s information varies from the
driver’s intended path. The ESP warning light
also flashes when traction control is activated. If the ESP
warning light begins to flash during acceleration, ease up
on the accelerator and apply as little throttle as possible.
Be sure to adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing
road conditions. When the ESP warning light is illumi-
nated continuously, the ESP is switched off. To return to
the enhanced vehicle stability offered by ESP, press the
ESP switch (the ESP warning light in the instrument
cluster goes out). Avoid spinning one drive wheel. This
may cause serious damage to the drive train.To improve the vehicle’s traction when driving with
snow chains, or starting off in deep snow, sand or gravel,
switch off the ESP system by pressing the ESP switch.
With the ESP system switched off, the engine torque
reduction feature is cancelled. Therefore, the enhanced
vehicle stability offered by ESP is unavailable. ESP al-
ways operates under braking, even with the switch in the
OFF position. When the ESP system is disabled (if one
drive wheel loses traction and begins to spin) the brake is
applied by the ESP system to control wheel slip. This
ESP Control Switch
108 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE
temperature of the transmission reaches the appropriate
temperature. Refer to the“Note”under“Torque Con-
verter Clutch”later in this section.
If the transmission temperature gets too hot, the
transmission may downshift out of Overdrive or en-
gage overdrive at higher vehicle speeds until the
transmission cools down. After cooldown, Overdrive
will resume normal operation.
3 (Third)
This range eliminates shifts into Overdrive. The trans-
mission will operate normally in First, Second and
Third while in this range. The“3”position should also
be used when descending steep grades to prevent
brake system distress.
NOTE:
Using the“3”range while operating the vehicle
under heavy operating conditions will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat build up.
L (Low)
This range should be used for engine braking when
descending very steep grades. In this range, upshiftswill occur only to prevent engine overspeed while
downshifts occur earlier than other gear range selec-
tions.
CAUTION!
•Never race the engine with the brakes on and the
vehicle in gear, and never hold the vehicle on an
incline without applying the brakes. These prac-
tices can cause overheating and damage to the
transmission.
•When“rocking”a stuck vehicle by moving be-
tween“First”and R (Reverse), do not spin the
wheels faster than 15 mph (24 km/h), or drivetrain
damage may result.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
added to the automatic transmission of this vehicle. A
clutch within the torque converter engages automatically
at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly differ-
ent feeling or response during normal operation in high
STARTING AND OPERATING 207
5
gear. When the vehicle speed drops or during accelera-
tion, the clutch automatically and smoothly disengages.
NOTE:
•
The torque converter clutch will not engage until the
transmission fluid and engine coolant is warm (usu-
ally after 1–3 miles (1.6–4.8 km) of driving). Because
engine speed is higher when the torque converter
clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmis-
sion is not shifting into“Overdrive”when cold. This is
considered a normal condition. Pulling the shift lever
into the“3”position will show that the transmission is
able to shift into and out of“Overdrive.”
•If the vehicle has not been driven for several days, the
first few seconds of operation after shifting the trans-
mission into gear may seem sluggish. This is due to the
transmission fluid partially draining from the torque
converter into the transmission. This is considered a
normal condition and will not cause damage to the
transmission. The torque converter will refill within 5
seconds of shifting from P (Park) into any other gear
position.
Transmission Limp Home Mode
The transmission is monitored for abnormal conditions.
If a condition is detected that could cause damage, the
transmission automatically shifts into second gear. The
transmission remains in second gear despite the forward
gear selected. Park (P), Reverse (R), and Neutral (N) will
continue to operate. This Reset feature allows the vehicle
to be driven to a dealer for service without damaging the
transmission.
If the problem has been momentary, the transmission can
be reset to regain all forward gears.
•Stop the vehicle and shift into PARK (P).
•Turn the key to LOCK then start the engine.
•Shift into“D”and resume driving.
NOTE:Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit a dealer at your earliest
possible convenience. Your dealer has diagnostic equip-
ment to determine if the problem could recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, dealer service is
required.
208 STARTING AND OPERATING
ALL WHEEL DRIVE—IF EQUIPPED
This feature provides full time All Wheel Drive (AWD)
with Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control. The
front wheels provide 38% of the torque, and the rear
wheels provide 62% of the torque. The system is auto-
matic with no driver inputs or additional driving skills
required.
CAUTION!
All wheels must have the same size and type tires.
Unequal tire sizes must not be used. Unequal tire
size may cause failure of the front differential and/or
the transfer case.
SELF–SEALING TIRES—IF EQUIPPED
A non-hardening viscous sealant applied to the inner
liner of each tire fills punctures up to 0.19 in. (5 mm) to
minimize the loss of air pressure. This contributes to the
safety of the vehicle by significantly reducing the prob-
ability of a roadside stop due to a flat tire.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM—IF
EQUIPPED
Tire Pressure Monitoring—Base System
The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses wireless
technology with wheel rim mounted electronic sensors to
monitor tire pressure levels (EXCLUDING THE SPARE
TIRE). Sensors, mounted to each wheel as part of the
valve stem, transmit tire pressure readings to the Re-
ceiver Module.
NOTE:It is particularly important, for you to check the
tire pressure in all of your tires regularly and to maintain
the proper pressure.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light will
illuminate in the instrument cluster, and an au-
dible chime will be activated when one or more
STARTING AND OPERATING 239
5
7. Remove the lug nuts, wheel cover (if equipped) and
tire. Remove the cover by hand, do not pry off.
8. Mount the spare tire. For vehicles equipped with
wheel covers, see the wheel cover installation instruc-
tions. Do not attempt to install a wheel cover on a
compact spare.
9. Tighten all the lug nuts on the mounting studs.
10. Lower the vehicle to the ground by turning the jack
handle counterclockwise.
11. Fully tighten the lug nuts. Torque the wheel lug nuts
to 100 ft/lb. (135 N. m).
12. Store the flat tire, jack and tools.
WARNING!
Raising the vehicle higher than necessary can make
the vehicle less stable. It could slip off the jack and
hurt someone near it. Raise the vehicle only enough
to remove the tire.
WARNING!
A loose tire or jack thrown forward in a collision or
hard stop could endanger the occupants of the ve-
hicle. Always stow the jack parts and the spare tire in
the places provided.
Compact Spare Tire-For Temporary Emergency
Use Only
•
Keep tire inflated to 60 PSI (414 KPa) Cold Inflation
Pressure.
•Avoid driving more than 50 miles (80 km) before
replacing tire and wheel.
•This tire is designed as an emergency spare only-do
not exceed 50 MPH (80 km/h) speed.
276 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
CAUTION!
Do not allow petroleum base fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid, all brake seal components could be
damaged causing partial or complete brake failure.
Fuel System Hoses
Electronic Fuel Injection high pressure fuel systems are
designed with hoses and quick connect fittings which
have unique material characteristics to provide adequate
sealing and resist attack by deteriorated gasoline.
You are urged to use only the manufacture specified
hoses with quick connect fittings, or their equivalent in
material and specification, in any fuel system servicing. It
is mandatory to replace any damaged hoses or quick
connect fittings that have been removed during service.
Care should be taken in installing quick connect fittings
to insure they are properly installed and fully connected.
See your authorized dealer for service.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid Level Check
Regular automatic transmission fluid level checks are not
required. For this reason the dipstick is omitted.
If you notice fluid loss or gear shift malfunction, have
your authorized dealer check the transmission fluid level.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turer’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than that
recommended by the manufacturer will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to the
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts section for
correct fluid type.
312 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System)............. 219
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)......... 306
Adding Fuel.......................... 250
Adding Washer Fluid.................103,303
Additives, Fuel........................ 248
Adjustable Pedals....................... 93
Air Conditioner Maintenance.............. 300
Air Conditioning....................... 187
Air Conditioning Filter................196,301
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips........... 197
Air Conditioning Refrigerant.............. 301
Air Conditioning System................. 187
Air Pressure, Tires...................... 232
Airbag................................ 38
Airbag Deployment....................41,42
Airbag Light....................42,49,59,142
Airbag Maintenance...................... 44
Airbag, Side........................... 44
Airbag, Window (Side Curtain)...........38,44
Alarm System (Security Alarm)............. 24
Alignment and Balance.................. 238
All Wheel Drive (AWD)...............239,313
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle............ 7Antenna, Satellite Radio.................. 180
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)............306,331
Disposal............................ 308
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)............. 219
Anti-Lock Warning Light................. 147
Anti-Theft Security Alarm (Theft Alarm)...... 24
Appearance Care....................... 314
Auto Down Power Windows............... 28
Auto Up Power Windows................. 28
Automatic Dimming Mirror................ 65
Automatic Door Locks..................17,18
Automatic Headlights.................... 98
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)....... 190
Automatic Transmission.........204,209,312,313
Adding Fluid.....................313,333
Fluid and Filter Changes................ 313
Fluid Change........................ 313
Fluid Level Check..................... 312
Fluid Type.......................... 333
Gear Ranges......................... 205
Torque Converter..................... 207
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode . . . 208
Autostick.......................... 211,216
360 INDEX
Tilt Steering Column.................... 104
Tire and Loading Information Placard....... 227
Tire Identification Number (TIN)........... 226
Tire Markings......................... 223
Tire Safety Information................... 223
Tires ...........................60,231,356
Aging (Life of Tires)................... 237
Air Pressure......................... 231
Alignment.......................... 238
Chains............................. 244
Changing........................269,273
Compact Spare....................... 234
Flat Changing........................ 269
General Information................... 231
High Speed......................... 233
Inflation Pressures.................... 232
Jacking..........................270,273
Life of Tires......................... 237
Load Capacity....................227,228
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)......... 239
Quality Grading...................... 356
Radial............................. 234
Replacement......................... 237Rotation............................ 245
Safety...........................223,231
Self-Sealing.......................... 239
Sizes............................... 224
Snow Tires.......................... 245
Spare Tire........................... 271
Spinning............................ 235
Tread Wear Indicators.................. 236
Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight............. 259
Torque Converter Clutch................. 207
Towing.............................. 254
Behind a Motor Home................. 265
Disabled Vehicle...................... 281
Guide.............................. 257
Recreational......................... 265
Weight............................. 257
Towing Vehicle Behind a Motor Home....... 265
Traction Control........................ 105
Traction Control Switch.................. 105
Trailer Towing......................... 254
Cooling System Tips................... 264
Hitches............................. 256
Minimum Requirements................ 260
INDEX 371
10