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WARNING!
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot pre-
vent the natural laws of physics from acting on the
vehicle, nor can it increase the traction afforded by
prevailing road conditions. ESC cannot prevent acci-
dents, including those resulting from excessive speed
in turns, driving on very slippery surfaces, or hydro-
planing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can
prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ESC-
equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reck-
less or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the
user’s safety or the safety of others.
27. O/D (Overdrive) Off Indicator Light This light will illuminate when the O/D OFF
button has been selected and overdrive has been
turned off. The O/D OFF button is located on the center
console. 28. Sway Bar Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator will illuminate when the front
sway bar is disconnected.
29. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Brake Assist
System (BAS) Warning Light The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Brake
Assist System (BAS) warning light in the in-
strument cluster comes on when the ignition
switch is turned to the ON position. The light
should go out with the engine running. If the ESP/BAS
warning light comes on continuously with the engine
running, a malfunction has been detected in either the
ESP or the BAS system. If this light stays illuminated,
have the ESP and BAS checked at an authorized dealer as
soon as possible. Refer to “Electronic Brake Control
System” in “Starting And Operating” for further infor-
mation.
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WARNING!
If a warning light remains on the system may not be
working and you will not have the benefit of ESP or
BAS. Under certain driving conditions, where ESP or
BAS would be beneficial, you - if you have not
adjusted your driving speeds and stopping in or to
account for the lack of the feature, may be in acci-
dent.
30. Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light This light informs you of a problem with the
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. If a
problem is detected while the engine is run-
ning, the light will either stay on or flash
depending on the nature of the problem. Cycle the
ignition key when the vehicle is safely and completely
stopped and the shift lever is placed in the PARK
position. The light should turn off. If the light remains on with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be
drivable; however, see an authorized dealer for service as
soon as possible.
If the light continues to flash when the engine 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 first turned ON and remain
on briefly as a bulb check. If the light does not come on
during starting, have the system checked by an autho-
rized dealer.
31. Compass / Mini-Trip Computer Display — If
Equipped
When the appropriate conditions exist, this display
shows the Mini-Trip Computer messages. Refer to “Mini-
Trip Computer”.
260 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
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WARNING!
Even if the display still reads a few degrees above
32°F ( 0°C), the road surface may be icy, particularly
in woods or on bridges. Drive carefully under such
conditions to prevent an accident and possible per-
sonal injury or property damage.
Compass Calibration
The compass on your vehicle will automatically calibrate
when new, and will continuously adjust itself over the
life of the vehicle. If the CAL indicator is on (or flashing),
drive slowly (under 10 mph [16 kmh]) in an open area
until the CAL indicator is off.
NOTE:
•A good calibration requires a level surface and an
environment free from large metallic objects such as
buildings, bridges, underground cables, railroad
tracks, etc.
•Magnetic and battery powered devices, (such as cell
phones, iPod’s, radar detectors, PDA’s and laptops)
should be kept away from the top of the instrument
panel. This is where the compass module is located
and such devices may interfere and cause false com-
pass readings.
Automatic Compass Calibration
The self-calibrating feature of the compass eliminates the
need to calibrate the compass for normal conditions.
During a short initial period, the compass may appear
erratic and the CAL symbol will appear (blinking) on the
display. After the vehicle has completed at least one
complete circle under 5 mph (8 km/h) in an area free
from large metal objects, calibration will be complete
when the CAL symbol is extinguished.
After initial calibration, the compass will continue to
automatically update this calibration whenever the ve-
hicle is in motion.
264 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
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Anti-Lock Brake System ................. 371
Electronic Brake Control System ........... 373
▫ Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ........... 373
▫ Traction Control System (TCS) ........... 374
▫ Brake Assist System (BAS) .............. 374
▫ Hill Start Assist (HSA) ................ 375
▫ Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) ......... 378
▫ Electronic Stability Program (ESP) ........ 379
▫ ESP/BAS Warning Light ............... 385
▫ Trailer Sway Control (TSC) ............. 386
Tire Safety Information ................. 387
▫ Tire Markings ....................... 387
▫ Tire Identification Number (TIN) ......... 391▫
Tire Terminology And Definitions ......... 392
▫ Tire Loading And Tire Pressure .......... 393
Tires — General Information ............. 397
▫ Tire Pressure ....................... 397
▫ Tire Inflation Pressures ................ 398
▫ Tire Pressures For High-Speed Operation . . . 400
▫ Radial-Ply Tires ..................... 401
▫ Tire Spinning ....................... 401
▫ Tread Wear Indicators ................. 402
▫ Life Of Tire ........................ 402
▫ Replacement Tires .................... 403
Tire Rotation Recommendations ........... 404
Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) ....... 406
5
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▫Base System ........................ 408
▫ General Information .................. 411
Fuel Requirements ..................... 411
▫ Reformulated Gasoline ................ 412
▫ Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends ............. 412
▫ E-85 Usage In Non-Flex Fuel Vehicles ...... 413
▫ MMT In Gasoline .................... 413
▫ Materials Added To Fuel ............... 414
▫ Fuel System Cautions ................. 414
▫ Carbon Monoxide Warnings ............ 415
Adding Fuel ......................... 416
▫ Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap) .............. 416
▫ Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message ........... 418
Vehicle Loading ...................... 418
▫ Certification Label ................... 418
Trailer Towing ........................ 420
▫ Common Towing Definitions ............ 421
▫ Trailer Hitch Classification .............. 424
▫ Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer
Weight Ratings) ..................... 424
▫ Trailer And Trailer Tongue Weight ........ 427
▫ Towing Requirements ................. 428
▫ Towing Tips ........................ 433
Recreational Towing (Behind Motorhome, Etc.) . 435
▫ Two-Wheel Drive Models .............. 435
▫ Four-Wheel Drive Models .............. 436
330 STARTING AND OPERATING
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STARTING PROCEDURES
Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, adjust both
inside and outside mirrors, and fasten your seat belts.
WARNING!
Never leave children in the vehicle alone. Leaving
unintended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a
number of reasons. The child or others could be
seriously or fatally injured. The child could operate
power windows, other controls or move the vehicle.
Manual Transmission – If Equipped
Apply the parking brake, place the shift lever in NEU-
TRAL, and press the clutch pedal before starting the
vehicle. This vehicle is equipped with a clutch interlock-
ing ignition system. It will not start unless the clutch
pedal is pressed to the floor.Four-Wheel Drive Models Only
In 4L mode, this vehicle will start regardless of whether
or not the clutch pedal is pressed to the floor. This feature
enhances off-road performance by allowing the vehicle to
start when in 4L without having to press the clutch pedal.
The “4WD Indicator Light” will illuminate when the
transfer case has been shifted into this mode.
Automatic Transmission – If Equipped
Start the vehicle with the shift lever in the PARK position
(vehicle can also be started in NEUTRAL). Apply the
brake before shifting to any driving range.
Normal Starting
NOTE:
Normal starting of either a cold or a warm
engine is obtained without pumping or pressing the
accelerator pedal.
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Turn the ignition switch to the START position and
release when the engine starts. If the engine fails to start
within 10 seconds, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK
position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the “Normal
Starting” procedure.
Tip Start Feature – Automatic Transmission Only
Turn the ignition switch to the START position and
release it as soon as the starter engages. The starter motor
will continue to run, but will automatically disengage
itself when the engine is running. If the engine fails to
start, the starter will disengage automatically in 10 sec-
onds. If this occurs, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK
position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the “Normal
Starting” procedure.
Extreme Cold Weather (below –20°F or –29°C)
To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of
an externally-powered electric engine block heater (avail-
able from your authorized dealer) is recommended.
If Engine Fails to Start
WARNING!
•Never pour fuel or other flammable liquids 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.(Continued)
332 STARTING AND OPERATING
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WARNING! (Continued)
•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 dis-
charged 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 dan-
gerous if done improperly. Refer to “Jump Start-
ing” in “What To Do In Emergencies” for further
information.Without Tip Start – Manual Transmission Only
If the engine fails to start after you have followed the
“Normal Starting” or “Extreme Cold Weather” proce-
dures, it may be flooded. Push the accelerator pedal all
the way to the floor and hold it there while cranking the
engine. This should clear any excess fuel in case the
engine is flooded.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank the
engine for more than 15 seconds at a time. Wait 10 to
15 seconds before trying again.5
STARTING AND OPERATING 333