2012 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE maintenance

WARNING!(Continued)
• Overloading your tires is dangerous. Like
under-inflation, overloading can cause tire
failure. Use tires of the recommended load
capacity for your vehicle — never overload
them.
CAUTION!
Replacing original tires with tires of a different
size may result in false speedometer and
odometer readings. This can also affect ve-
hicle performance and can do potential dam-
age to the driveline. Check with your dealer
before replacing tires with a different size.
Directional Tread Pattern Tires – If
Equipped
Your vehicle may be equipped with tires using
a directional tread pattern. These tires are
designed to optimize dry handling as well as
wet performance. To obtain the full benefits of
this design, the tires must be installed so that
they rotate in the correct direction. The rotation
direction of this type of tire is indicated by arrows on the side wall of the tire. The full size
spare tire is mounted as a direct replacement
for the right side of the vehicle. For a flat tire on
the left side of the vehicle, the full size spare
can be used as mounted. If this is required,
correct the rotation as soon as possible to
restore optimum wet performance.
TIRE ROTATION
RECOMMENDATIONS
Non-Directional Tires Only
Tires on the front and rear axles of vehicles
operate at different loads and perform different
steering, handling, and braking functions. For
these reasons, they wear at unequal rates.
These effects can be reduced by timely rotation
of tires. The benefits of rotation are especially
worthwhile with aggressive tread designs such
as those on On/Off-Road type tires. Rotation
will increase tread life, help to maintain mud,
snow, and wet traction levels, and contribute to
a smooth, quiet ride.
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals. More frequent
rotation is permissible if desired. The reasons
for any rapid or unusual wear should be cor-
rected prior to rotation being performed.
NOTE:
The premium Tire Pressure Monitor System
will automatically locate the pressure values
displayed in the correct vehicle position
following a tire rotation.
The suggested rotation method is the “forward-
cross” shown in the following diagram.
Tire Rotation
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CAUTION!(Continued)
• After inspecting or adjusting the tire pres-
sure always reinstall the valve stem cap.
This will prevent moisture and dirt from
entering the valve stem, which could dam-
age the Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor.
NOTE:
• The TPMS is not intended to replace nor-
mal tire care and maintenance, or to pro-
vide warning of a tire failure or condition.
• The TPMS should not be used as a tire
pressure gauge while adjusting your tire
pressure.
• Driving on a significantly under-inflated
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.
• The TPMS is not a substitute for proper
tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s
responsibility to maintain correct tire
pressure using an accurate tire gauge,
even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger the display of the “TPM
Telltale Light” and the “TIRE LOW PRES-
SURE” message.
• Seasonal temperature changes will affect
tire pressure, and the TPMS will monitor
the actual tire pressure in the tire.
Base SystemThe Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses
wireless technology with wheel rim-mounted
electronic sensors to monitor tire pressure lev-
els. Sensors, mounted to each wheel as part of
the valve stem, transmit tire pressure readings
to the Receiver Module.
NOTE:
It is particularly important, for you to regu-
larly check the tire pressure in all of your
tires, and to maintain the proper pressure.
The TPMS consists of the following compo-
nents:
•Receiver Module
• Four Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors
• Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light A low spare tire will not cause the “Tire Pressure
Monitoring Telltale Light” to illuminate, a warn-
ing message to appear, or the chime to sound.
The “Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale
Light” will illuminate in the instrument
cluster, a “TIRE LOW PRESSURE”
message will display in the instrument
cluster for 5 seconds, and an audible chime will
be activated, when one or more of the four
active road tire pressures are low. Should this
occur, you should stop as soon as possible,
check the inflation pressure of each tire on your
vehicle, and inflate each tire to the vehicle’s
recommended cold placard pressure value.
The system will automatically update and the
“Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light” will
extinguish, once the updated tire pressures
have been received. The vehicle may need to
be driven for up to 20 minutes above 15 mph
(24 km/h) to receive this information.
The “Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light” will
flash on and off for 75 seconds, and remain on
solid when a system fault is detected. In addi-
tion, a “SERVICE TPM SYSTEM” message may
be displayed for approximately 5 seconds
when a system fault is detected, and a chime
258

Materials Added to Fuel
Besides using unleaded gasoline with the
proper octane rating, gasolines that contain
detergents, corrosion and stability additives
are recommended. Using gasolines that have
these additives will help improve fuel economy,
reduce emissions, and maintain vehicle perfor-
mance.
Indiscriminate use of fuel system cleaning
agents should be avoided. Many of these ma-
terials intended for gum and varnish removal
may contain active solvents or similar ingredi-
ents. These can harm fuel system gasket and
diaphragm materials.
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is
deadly. Follow the precautions below to pre-
vent carbon monoxide poisoning:(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
• Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain
carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless
gas which can kill. Never run the engine in
a closed area, such as a garage, and never
sit in a parked vehicle with the engine
running for an extended period. If the ve-
hicle is stopped in an open area with the
engine running for more than a short pe-
riod, adjust the ventilation system to force
fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
• Guard against carbon monoxide with
proper maintenance. Have the exhaust
system inspected every time the vehicle is
raised. Have any abnormal conditions re-
paired promptly. Until repaired, drive with
all side windows fully open.
• Keep the liftgate closed when driving your
vehicle to prevent carbon monoxide and
other poisonous exhaust gases from enter-
ing the vehicle.FUEL REQUIREMENTS — DIESEL
ENGINE
Use good quality diesel fuel from a reputable
supplier. For most year-round service, No. 2
diesel fuel, meeting ASTM specification D-975
Grade S15, will provide good performance. If
the vehicle is exposed to extreme cold (below
20° F or -7° C), or is required to operate at
colder-than-normal conditions for prolonged
periods, use climatized No. 2 diesel fuel or
dilute the No. 2 diesel fuel with 50% No. 1
diesel fuel. This will provide better protection
from fuel gelling or wax-plugging of the fuel
filters. This vehicle must only use premium
diesel fuel that meets the requirements of
EN 590. Biodiesel blends that meet EN 590
may also be used.
CAUTION!
The manufacturer requires that you must fuel
this vehicle with Ultra Low Sulfur Highway
Diesel fuel (15 ppm Sulfur maximum) and
prohibits the use of Low Sulfur Highway Die-
sel fuel (500 ppm Sulfur maximum) to avoid
damage to the emissions control system.
264

the maximum combined weight of occu-
pants and cargo for your vehicle.
Towing RequirementsTo promote proper break-in of your new vehicle
drivetrain components, the following guidelines
are recommended.
CAUTION!
•Do not tow a trailer at all during the first
500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is
driven. The engine, axle or other parts
could be damaged.
• Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km)
that a trailer is towed, do not drive over
50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make starts at
full throttle. This helps the engine and other
parts of the vehicle wear in at the heavier
loads.
Perform the maintenance listed in the “Mainte-
nance Schedule.” Refer to “Maintenance
Schedule” for the proper maintenance inter-
vals. When towing a trailer, never exceed the
GAWR or GCWR ratings.
WARNING!
Improper towing can lead to an injury acci-
dent. Follow these guidelines to make your
trailer towing as safe as possible:
•
Make certain that the load is secured in the
trailer and will not shift during travel. When
trailering cargo that is not fully secured, dy-
namic load shifts can occur that may be
difficult for the driver to control. You could lose
control of your vehicle and have an accident.
• When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do
not overload your vehicle or trailer. Over-
loading can cause a loss of control, poor
performance or damage to brakes, axle,
engine, transmission, steering, suspen-
sion, chassis structure or tires.
• Safety chains must always be used be-
tween your vehicle and trailer. Always con-
nect the chains to the hook retainers of the
vehicle hitch. Cross the chains under the
trailer tongue and allow enough slack for
turning corners.
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
• Vehicles with trailers should not be parked
on a grade. When parking, apply the park-
ing brake on the tow vehicle. Put the tow
vehicle transmission in PARK. For four-
wheel drive vehicles, make sure the trans-
fer case is not in NEUTRAL. Always, block
or chock the trailer wheels.
• GCWR must not be exceeded.
• Total weight must be distributed be-
tween the tow vehicle and the trailer
such that the following four ratings are
not exceeded:
1. GVWR
2. GTW
3. GAWR
4. Trailer tongue weight rating for the trailer
hitch utilized.
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Towing TipsBefore setting out on a trip, practice turning,
stopping and backing the trailer in an area
away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission
The DRIVE range can be selected when tow-
ing. However, if frequent shifting occurs while in
this range, the TOW/HAUL mode (if equipped),
or a lower gear range, should be selected.
NOTE:
Using TOW/HAUL mode (if equipped) or se-
lecting a lower gear range (using the Elec-tronic Range Select (ERS) shift control)
while operating the vehicle under heavy op-
erating conditions, will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by re-
ducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
This action will also provide better engine
braking.
The transmission fluid and filter should be
changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for
more than 45 minutes of continuous operation.
Refer to “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
NOTE:
Check the transmission fluid level before
towing (5.7L engine).
To avoid transmission overheating, when
towing a loaded trailer up steep grades at
low speeds (20 mph (32 km/h) or below),
holding your vehicle in first gear (using the
ERS shift control) is recommended (5.7L
Models Only).
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7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
•ENGINE COMPARTMENT — 3.6L ................. 298
• ENGINE COMPARTMENT — 5.7L ................. 299
• ENGINE COMPARTMENT – 3.0L DIESEL ............ 300
• ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM – OBD II ........... 301
• Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message ................ 301
• REPLACEMENT PARTS ...................... 301
• MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES .................. 301
• Engine Oil – Gasoline Engines ................ 302
• Engine Oil – Diesel Engine .................. 303
• Synthetic Engine Oils ..................... 303
• Materials Added To Engine Oils ............... 304
• Disposing Of Used Engine Oil And Filters ......... 304
• Engine Oil Filter ......................... 304
• Engine Air Cleaner Filter .................... 304
• Maintenance-Free Battery ................... 304
• Air Conditioner Maintenance ................. 305
295

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 emis-
sions, engine, and automatic transmission con-
trol systems. When these systems are operat-
ing properly, your vehicle will provide excellent
performance and fuel economy, as well as
engine emissions well within current govern-
ment regulations.
If any of these systems require service, the
OBD II system will turn on the “Malfunction
Indicator Light” (MIL). It will also store diagnos-
tic codes and other information to assist your
service technician in making repairs. Although
your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see your authorized dealer for
service as soon as possible.
CAUTION!
•Prolonged driving with the MIL on could
cause further damage to the emission con-
trol system. It could also affect fuel
economy and drivability. The vehicle must
be serviced before any emissions tests can
be performed.
• If the MIL is flashing while the engine is
running, severe catalytic converter damage
and power loss will soon occur. Immediate
service is required.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message
If the vehicle diagnostic system
determines that the fuel filler cap is
loose, improperly installed, or
damaged, a loose gascap indica-
tor will display in the EVIC telltale
display area. Refer to “Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in “Under-
standing Your Instrument Panel” for further in-
formation. Tighten the fuel filler cap properly
and press the SELECT button to turn off the message. If the problem continues, the mes-
sage will appear the next time the vehicle is
started.
A loose, improperly installed, or damaged fuel
filler cap may also turn on the Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL).
REPLACEMENT PARTSUse of genuine MOPAR
parts for normal/
scheduled maintenance and repairs is highly
recommended to ensure the designed perfor-
mance. Damage or failures caused by the use
of non-MOPAR parts for maintenance and
repairs will not be covered by the manufactur-
er’s warranty.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURESThe pages that follow contain the required
maintenance services determined by the engi-
neers who designed your vehicle.
Besides those maintenance items specified in
the fixed maintenance schedule, there are
other components which may require servicing
or replacement in the future.
301

CAUTION!
•Failure to properly maintain your vehicle or
perform repairs and service when neces-
sary could result in more costly repairs,
damage to other components or negatively
impact vehicle performance. Immediately
have potential malfunctions examined by
an authorized dealership or qualified repair
center.
• Your vehicle has been built with improved
fluids that protect the performance and
durability of your vehicle and also allow
extended maintenance intervals. Do not
use chemical flushes in these components
as the chemicals can damage your engine,
transmission, power steering or air condi-
tioning. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty. If a flush is
needed because of component malfunc-
tion, use only the specified fluid for the
flushing procedure.Engine Oil – Gasoline Engines
Checking Oil Level
To assure proper lubrication of your vehicle’s
engine, the engine oil must be maintained at
the correct level. The best time to check the
engine oil level is about five minutes after a fully
warmed up engine is shut off or before starting
the engine after it has sat overnight.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level
ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level
readings. Maintain the oil level in the SAFE level
range. Adding 1 U.S. Quart (0.95L) of oil when
the level is at the bottom of the SAFE range will
result in the level being at the top of the SAFE
range.
CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will
cause aeration or loss of oil pressure. This
could damage your engine. Change Engine Oil
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
Engine Oil Selection – Non ACEA
Categories
For best performance and maximum protection
under all types of operating conditions, the
manufacturer only recommends engine oils
that are API certified and meet the require-
ments of Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.
American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine
Oil Identification Symbol
This symbol
means that the oil
has been certified
by the American
Petroleum Institute
(API). The manu-
facturer only rec-
ommends API
Certified engine
oils.
302