2008 JEEP COMMANDER check engine

NChild Restraint........................60
mEngine Break-In Recommendations...........69
mSafety Tips............................70
NExhaust Gas..........................70NSafety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle..............................71
NSafety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle..............................72
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
2

CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always
remove key from the ignition and lock all doors
when leaving the vehicle unattended.
Key-In-Ignition Reminder
If you open the driver's door and the key is in the
ignition, a chime will sound to remind you to remove the
key.
NOTE:The Key-In-Ignition reminder only sounds
when the ignition key is placed in the LOCK or ACC
position.
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho-
rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The
system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation
is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked
or unlocked.
The system uses the factory-mated Fob with Integrated
Key and Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) to prevent unau-
thorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only Fobs that are
programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and
operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in
two (2) seconds if someone uses an invalid Fob to start
the engine.
After turning the ignition switch to the ON position, the
Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will turn on for
three (3) seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on
after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem
with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
2

flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used
an invalid Fob to start the engine. Either of these condi-
tions will result in the engine being shut off after two (2)
seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light turns on
during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for
longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in
the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle ser-
viced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
²The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible
with aftermarket remote starting systems. Use of these
systems may result in vehicle starting problems and
loss of security protection.
²Exxon/Mobil Speed Pass,Ÿ additional Fobs, or any
other transponder-equipped components on the same
key chain willnotcause a fault unless the additional
part isphysically held against the Fobbeing used tostart the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF
electronics will not cause interference with this system.
All of the Fobs provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
Replacement Keys
NOTE:Only Fobs that are programmed to the vehicle
electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle.
Once a Fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be
programmed to any other vehicle.
CAUTION!
Always remove Sentry Keys from the vehicle and
lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four-digit PIN number. Keep the PIN in a secure
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

the rear wiper switch or the ignition switch needs to be
turned OFF and ON to restart the rear wiper.
Adding Washer Fluid
The fluid reservoir for the windshield washers and the
rear window washer is shared. It is located in the front of
the engine compartment on the passenger side and
should be checked for fluid level at regular intervals. Fill
the reservoir with windshield washer solvent (not radia-
tor antifreeze) and operate the system for a few seconds
to flush out the residual water.
Rear Window Defroster Ð If Equipped
Press this button (located on the Climate Control
panel) to turn on the rear window defroster and
the heated side mirrors (if equipped). An LED in the
button will illuminate to indicate the rear window de-
froster is ON. The defroster automatically turns off after
about 10 minutes of operation.
CAUTION!
To avoid damaging the electrical conductors of the
rear window defroster, do not use scrapers, sharp
instruments, or abrasive window cleaners on the
interior surface of the window.
Labels can be peeled off after soaking with warm
water.
ROOF LUGGAGE RACK Ð IF EQUIPPED
External racks do not increase the total load carrying
capacity of the vehicle. Be sure that the total occupant
and luggage load inside the vehicle, plus the load on the
luggage rack, do not exceed the rated vehicle capacity.
This vehicle is not equipped with roof rack cross rails as
built, unless ordered as optional equipment. Cross rails
must be installed prior to carrying loads on the roof rack.
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 177
3

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION
1. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
2. Brake Warning Light
The BRAKE warning light will come on when
the ignition is first turned on, and stay on
briefly as a bulb check. If the bulb does not
come on during starting, have the bulb re-
paired promptly. If the light stays on longer, it may be an
indication that the parking brake has not been released.
If the light remains on when the parking brake is off, it
indicates a possible brake hydraulic system malfunction
or low fluid level. In this case, the ªBrake Warning Lightº
will remain on until the cause is corrected. If a brake
malfunction is indicated, immediate repair is necessary
and continued operation of the vehicle in this condition is
dangerous.3. Turn Signal Indicator Light
The arrow will flash with the exterior turn signal
when the turn signal lever is operated.
If the vehicle electronics sense that the vehicle has
traveled about one mile with the turn signals on, a chime
will sound to alert you to turn the signals off. If either
indicator flashes at a rapid rate, check for a defective
outside light bulb.
4. High Beam Indicator Light
Indicates that headlights are on high beam.
5. Malfunction Indicator Light
This light is part of an onboard diagnostic system
called OBD II that monitors engine and auto-
matic transmission control systems. The light will
illuminate when the key is in the ON position before
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 187
4

engine start. If the bulb does not come on when turning
the key from OFF to ON, have the condition checked
promptly.
Certain conditions such as a loose or missing gas cap,
poor fuel quality, etc. may illuminate the light after
engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light
stays on through several of your typical driving cycles. In
most situations the vehicle will drive normally and will
not require towing.
The Malfunction Indicator Light flashes to alert you to
serious conditions that could lead to immediate loss of
power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle
should be serviced as soon as possible if this occurs.
6. Airbag Warning Light
This light turns on and remains on for 6 to 8
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition
switch is first turned ON. If the light is not onduring starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, have
the system inspected by an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
7. Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System.
The light will turn on when the ignition switch is
turned to the ON position and may stay on for as long as
four seconds.
If the ABS light remains on or turns on while driving, it
indicates that the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system
is not functioning and that service is required. However,
the conventional brake system will continue to operate
normally if the BRAKE warning light is not on.
If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be serviced
as soon as possible to restore the benefits of Anti-Lock
brakes. If the ABS light does not turn on when the
Ignition switch is turned to the ON position, have the
light inspected by an authorized dealer.
188 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

8. Tachometer
The red segments indicate the maximum permissible
engine revolutions-per-minute (r.p.m. x 1000) for each
gear range. Before reaching the red area, ease up on the
accelerator.
9. Security Alarm System Indicator Light Ð If
Equipped
This light will flash rapidly for approximately 15 seconds
when the vehicle theft alarm is arming. The light will
flash at a slower speed continuously after the alarm is set.
The security light will also come on for about three
seconds when the ignition is first turned on.
10. Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light shows low engine oil pressure. The light
should turn on momentarily when the engine is
started. If the light turns on while driving, stop the
vehicle, and shut off the engine as soon as possible. A
continuous chime will sound when this light turns on.Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected.
This light does not show how much oil is in the engine.
The engine oil level must be checked under the hood.
11. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Indicator
Light/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator Light
This indicator light starts to flash as soon as the
tires lose traction and the ESP system becomes
active. The ªESP/TCS Indicator Lightº also
flashes when TCS is active. If the ªESP/TCS
Indicator Lightº 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. The ªESP/TCS Indicator
Lightº will flash any time the ESP or TCS is active and
helping to improve vehicle stability. If the ªESP/TCS
Indicator Lightº is on solid, the ESP system has been
turned off by the driver or a temporary condition exists
that will not allow full ESP function.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 189
4

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 replace-
ment or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to
continue to function properly.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 opera-
tion or sensor damage may result when using re-
placement equipment that is not of the same size,
type, and/or style. After-market wheels can cause
sensor damage. Do not use aftermarket tire sealants
or balance beads if your vehicle is equipped with a
TPMS, as damage to the sensors may result.
13. Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge shows engine coolant tempera-
ture. Any reading within the normal range indicates that
the engine cooling system is operating satisfactorily.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 191
4