2011 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE towing

Illuminated Vanity MirrorsTo access an illuminated vanity mirror, flip down
one of the visors.
Lift the cover to reveal the mirror. The light will
turn on automatically.
Sun Visor Extension — If EquippedThis feature has a pull out extension on the sun
visor for increased coverage.
BLIND SPOT MONITORING —
IF EQUIPPED
The Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system uses
two radar-based sensors, located inside the
rear bumper fascia, to detect Highway licens-
able vehicles (automobiles, trucks, motor-
cycles etc.) that enter the blind spot zones from
the rear/front/side of the vehicle.
When the vehicle is started, the BSM warning
light will be momentarily illuminated in both
outside rear view mirrors to let the driver know
that the system is operational. The BSM system
sensors operate when the vehicle is in anyforward gear or REVERSE and enters stand by
mode when the vehicle is in PARK.
The BSM detection zone covers approximately
one lane on both sides of the vehicle (11 ft or
3.35 m). The zone starts at the outside rear view
mirror and extends approximately 20 ft (6 m) to
the rear of the vehicle. The BSM system moni-
tors the detection zones on both sides of the
vehicle when the vehicle speed has reached
approximately 6 mph (10 km/h) or higher and
will alert the driver of vehicles in these areas.
NOTE:
•
The BSM system does NOT alert the
driver about rapidly approaching vehicles
that are outside the detection zones.
•
The BSM system detection zone DOES
NOT change if your vehicle is towing a
trailer. Therefore, visually verify the adja-
cent lane is clear for both your vehicle and
trailer before making a lane change. If the
trailer or other object (i.e., bicycle, sports
equipment) extends beyond the side of
your vehicle, this may result in the BSM
warning light remaining illuminated the
entire time the vehicle is in a forward gear.Illuminated Vanity Mirror
Rear Detection Zones
69

WARNING!
•Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is a conve-
nience system. It is not a substitute for
active driving involvement. It is always the
driver’s responsibility to be attentive of
road, traffic, and weather conditions, ve-
hicle speed, distance to the vehicle ahead;
and, most importantly, brake operation to
ensure safe operation of the vehicle under
all road conditions. Your complete attention
is always required while driving to maintain
safe control of your vehicle. Failure to fol-
low these warnings can result in a collision
or serious personal injury.
• The ACC system:
Does not react to pedestrians, oncoming
vehicles, and stationary objects (i.e., a
stopped vehicle in a traffic jam or a
disabled vehicle).
Cannot take street, traffic, and weather
conditions into account, and may be
limited upon adverse sight distance con-
ditions.
(Continued)WARNING!(Continued)
Does not predict the lane curvature or
the movement of preceding vehicles and
will not compensate for such changes.
Does not always fully recognize com-
plex driving conditions, which can result
in wrong or missing distance warnings.
Can only apply a maximum of 25% of
the vehicle’s braking capability, and will
not bring the vehicle to a complete stop.
WARNING!
You should switch off the ACC system:
• When driving in fog, heavy rain, heavy
snow, sleet, heavy traffic, and complex
driving situations (i.e., in highway construc-
tion zones).
• When entering a turn lane or highway off
ramp; when driving on roads that are wind-
ing, icy, snow-covered, slippery, or have
steep uphill or downhill slopes; and when
towing a trailer.
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
• When circumstances do not allow safe
driving at a constant speed.
Failure to follow these warnings can result in a
collision or serious personal injury.
The Cruise Control system has two control
modes:
• Adaptive Cruise Control mode for maintain-
ing an appropriate distance between ve-
hicles.
• Normal (fixed speed) cruise control mode for
cruising at a constant preset speed. For
additional information, refer to “Normal
(Fixed Speed) Cruise Control Mode” in this
section. Note:The system will not react to
preceding vehicles. Always be aware of the
mode selected.
You can change the mode by using the Cruise
Control buttons. The two control modes func-
tion differently. Always confirm which mode is
selected.
11 9

WARNING!(Continued)
• Before using the ParkSense Park Assist
System, it is strongly recommended that
the ball mount and hitch ball assembly is
disconnected from the vehicle when the
vehicle is not used for towing. Failure to do
so can result in injury or damage to ve-
hicles or obstacles because the hitch ball
will be much closer to the obstacle than the
rear fascia when the warning display turns
on the single flashing arc and sounds the
continuous tone. Also, the sensors could
detect the ball mount and hitch ball assem-
bly, depending on its size and shape, giving
a false indication that an obstacle is behind
the vehicle.PARKVIEW REAR BACK UP
CAMERA — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with the Park-
View Rear Back Up Camera that allows you to
see an on-screen image of the rear surround-
ings of your vehicle whenever the shift lever is
put into REVERSE. The image will be displayed
on the Navigation/Multimedia radio display
screen along with a caution note to “check
entire surroundings” across the top of the
screen. After five seconds this note will disap-
pear. The ParkView camera is located on the
rear of the vehicle above the rear License plate. When the vehicle is shifted out of REVERSE, the
rear camera mode is exited and the navigation
or audio screen appears again.
When displayed, static grid lines will illustrate
the width of the vehicle while a dashed center-
line will indicate the center of the vehicle to
assist with aligning to a hitch/receiver. The
static grid lines will show separate zones that
will help indicate the distance to the rear of the
vehicle. The following table shows the approxi-
mate distances for each zone:
Zone Distance to the rear of the vehicle
Red 0-1ft(0-30cm)
Yellow 1 f t-3ft(30cm-1m)
Green 3 ft or greater (1 m or greater)
138

NOTE:
•To help control wind noise when the
crossbars are not in use, place the front
and rear crossbars approximately 24 in
(61 cm) apart. Optimal noise reduction
can then be achieved by adjusting the
front crossbar forward or aft using incre-
ments of 1 in (2.5 cm).
• If the rear crossbar (or any metallic ob-
ject) is placed over the satellite radio
antenna (if equipped), you may experi-
ence interruption of satellite radio recep-
tion. For improved satellite radio recep-
tion, avoid placing the rear crossbar over
the satellite radio antenna.
• The grab handles on the back of the
vehicle (if equipped) are not to be used as
a towing feature.CAUTION!
• To prevent damage to the roof of your
vehicle, do not carry any loads on the roof
rack without the crossbars installed. The
load should be secured and placed on top
of the crossbars, not directly on the roof. If
it is necessary to place the load on the roof,
place a blanket or some other protection
between the load and the roof surface.
• To avoid damage to the roof rack and
vehicle, do not exceed the maximum roof
rack load capacity of 150 lbs (68 kg).
Always distribute heavy loads as evenly as
possible and secure the load appropriately.
• Long loads which extend over the wind-
shield, such as wood panels or surfboards,
or loads with large frontal area should be
secured to both the front and rear of the
vehicle.
(Continued)CAUTION!(Continued)
• Travel at reduced speeds and turn corners
carefully when carrying large or heavy
loads on the roof rack. Wind forces, due to
natural causes or nearby truck traffic, can
add sudden upward lift to a load. This is
especially true on large flat loads and may
result in damage to the cargo or your
vehicle.
WARNING!
Cargo must be securely tied before driving
your vehicle. Improperly secured loads can fly
off the vehicle, particularly at high speeds,
resulting in personal injury or property dam-
age. Follow the roof rack cautions when car-
rying cargo on your roof rack.
152

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
DESCRIPTIONS
1. Tachometer
Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM).
2. Airbag Warning Light
This light will turn on for four to eight
seconds as a bulb check when the
ignition switch is first turned to the
ON/RUN position. If the light is ei-
ther not on during starting, stays on,
or turns on while driving, then have
the system inspected at an authorized dealer as
soon as possible. Refer to “Occupant Re-
straints” in “Things To Know Before Starting Your
Vehicle” for further information.
3. Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
is part of an onboard diagnostic sys-
tem called OBD II that monitors en-
gine and automatic transmission con-
trol systems. The light will illuminate
when the key is in the ON/RUN position before
engine start. If the bulb does not come on when turning the key from OFF to ON/RUN, 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 situa-
tions, the vehicle will drive normally and will not
require towing.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause
damage to the engine control system. It also
could affect fuel economy and drivability. If the
MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter
damage and power loss will soon occur. Im-
mediate service is required.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as refer-
enced 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 or
wood or cardboard, etc. This could result in
death or serious injury to the driver, occupants
or others.
4. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light —
If Equipped The “ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light” in the instrument
cluster will come on when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON/
RUN position. It should go out with
the engine running. If the “ESC
Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” comes
on continuously with the engine running, a
malfunction has been detected in the ESC
system. If this light remains on after several
ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been driven
several miles (kilometers) at speeds greater
158

23. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF
Indicator Light — If EquippedThis light indicates the Electronic
Stability Control (ESC) is off.
24. Vehicle Security Light This light will flash rapidly for ap-
proximately 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.
25. Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge shows engine coolant
temperature. Any reading within the normal
range indicates that the engine cooling system
is operating satisfactorily.
The gauge pointer will likely indicate a higher
temperature when driving in hot weather, up
mountain grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be allowed to exceed the upper
limits of the normal operating range.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could
damage your vehicle. If the temperature
gauge reads “H” pull over and stop the ve-
hicle. Idle the vehicle with the air conditioner
turned off until the pointer drops back into the
normal range. If the pointer remains on the “H”
and you hear continuous chimes, turn the
engine off immediately, and call an authorized
dealership for service.
WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous.
You or others could be badly burned by steam
or boiling coolant. You may want to call an
authorized dealership for service if your ve-
hicle overheats. If you decide to look under
the hood yourself, see “Maintaining Your Ve-
hicle”. Follow the warnings under the Cooling
System Pressure Cap paragraph.26. Rear Fog Light Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the
rear fog lights are on.
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE
INFORMATION CENTER (EVIC)
The Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC) features a driver-interactive display that
is located in the instrument cluster.
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
Display
163

non-essential electrical devices or increase en-
gine speed (if at idle). If the charging system
light remains on, it means that the vehicle is
experiencing a problem with the charging sys-
tem. Obtain SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. See an
authorized dealer.
If jump starting is required, refer to “Jump
Starting Procedures” in “What To Do In Emer-
gencies”.
•Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
This light informs you of a problem
with the Electronic Throttle Control
(ETC) system. 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 authorized dealer.
If a problem is detected, the light will come on
while the engine is running. Cycle the ignition
key when the vehicle has completely stopped
and the shift lever is placed in the PARK
position. The light should turn off.
If the light remains lit with the engine running
your vehicle, will usually be drivable, however, see an authorized dealer for service as soon as
possible. If the light is flashing 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.
•
Engine Temperature Warning Light
This light warns of an overheated en-
gine condition. As temperatures rise
and the gauge approaches H,this
indicator will illuminate and a single
chime will sound after reaching a set threshold.
Further overheating will cause the temperature
gauge to pass H,the indicator will continuously
flash and a continuous chime will occur until
the engine is allowed to cool.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull
over and stop the vehicle. If the A/C system is
on, turn it off. Also, shift the transmission into
NEUTRAL and idle the vehicle. If the tempera-
ture reading does not return to normal, turn the
engine off immediately and call for service.
Refer to “If Your Engine Overheats” in “What To
Do In Emergencies” for more information. •
Transmission Temperature Light
This light indicates that there is
excessive transmission fluid tem-
perature that might occur with se-
vere usage such as trailer towing.
It may also occur when operating
the vehicle in a high torque con-
verter slip condition, such as 4-wheel-drive
operation (e.g., snow plowing, off- road opera-
tion). If this light comes on, stop the vehicle and
run the engine at idle or faster, with the trans-
mission in NEUTRAL until the light goes off.
CAUTION!
Continuous driving with the Transmission
Temperature Indicator illuminated will eventu-
ally cause severe transmission damage or
transmission failure.
170

•ADDING FUEL ............................ 242
• Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap) ................... 242
• Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message ................ 244
• TRAILER TOWING ......................... 244
• Common Towing Definitions ................. 244
• Breakaway Cable Attachment ................. 245
• Trailer Towing Weights
(Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings) .............. 246
• Trailer And Trailer Tongue Weight .............. 246
• Towing Requirements ..................... 247
• Towing Tips ........................... 249
• RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC) . . . 251
• Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle ........ 251
• Recreational Towing — Quadra–Trac II /Quadra–Drive 
II Four-Wheel Drive Models .................. 252
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