2012 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE neutral

When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake
before placing the shift lever in PARK, other-
wise the load on the transmission locking
mechanism may make it difficult to move the
shift lever out of PARK. As an added precau-
tion, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a
downhill grade and away from the curb on an
uphill grade.
WARNING!
•Never use the PARK position as a substi-
tute for the parking brake. Always apply the
parking brake fully when parked to guard
against vehicle movement and possible
injury or damage.
• Your vehicle could move and injure you and
others if it is not completely in PARK.
Check by trying to move the shift lever
rearward (with the brake pedal released),
after you have placed it in PARK. Make
sure the transmission is in PARK before
leaving the vehicle.
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
•It is dangerous to move the shift lever out of
PARK or NEUTRAL if the engine speed is
higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly
pressing the brake pedal, the vehicle could
accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You
could lose control of the vehicle and hit some-
one or something. Only shift into gear when
the engine is idling normally and when your
foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal.
• Unintended movement of a vehicle could
injure those in or near the vehicle. As with
all vehicles, you should never exit a vehicle
while the engine is running. Before exiting a
vehicle, always apply the parking brake,
shift the transmission into PARK, and re-
move the key fob. Once the key fob is
removed, the shift lever is locked in the
PARK position, securing the vehicle
against unwanted movement.
• When leaving the vehicle, always remove
the key fob and lock your vehicle.
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle. Allow-
ing children to be in a vehicle unattended is
dangerous for a number of reasons. A child
or others could be seriously or fatally in-
jured. Children should be warned not to
touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the
shift lever. Do not leave the key fob in or
near the vehicle, and do not leave Keyless
Enter-N-Go in the ACC or ON/RUN mode.
A child could operate power windows, other
controls, or move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
•Before moving the shift lever out of PARK,
you must turn the ignition switch from the
LOCK/OFF position to the ON/RUN posi-
tion, and also press the brake pedal. Oth-
erwise, damage to the shift lever could
result.
(Continued)
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CAUTION!(Continued)
• DO NOT race the engine when shifting
from PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear
range, as this can damage the drivetrain.
The following indicators should be used to
ensure that you have engaged the shift lever
into the PARK position:
• When shifting into PARK, move the shift lever
all the way forward and to the left until it stops
and is fully seated.
• Look at the shift lever position display and
verify that it indicates the PARK position.
• With brake pedal released, verify that the
shift lever will not move out of PARK.
REVERSE
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has
come to a complete stop. NEUTRAL
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for
prolonged periods with engine running. The
engine may be started in this range. Set the
parking brake and shift the transmission into
PARK if you must leave the vehicle.
WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off
the ignition to coast down a hill. These are
unsafe practices that limit your response to
changing traffic or road conditions. You might
lose control of the vehicle and have a colli-
sion.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any
other reason with the transmission in NEU-
TRAL can result in severe transmission dam-
age. Refer to “Recreational Towing” in “Start-
ing And Operating” and “Towing A Disabled
Vehicle” in “What To Do In Emergencies” for
further information.DRIVE
This range should be used for most city and
highway driving. It provides the smoothest up-
shifts and downshifts, and the best fuel
economy. The transmission automatically up-
shifts through underdrive first and second
gears, direct third gear and overdrive fourth
and fifth gears. The DRIVE position provides
optimum driving characteristics under all nor-
mal operating conditions.
To access all six available gears, you must use
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) feature (refer
to “Electronic Range Select (ERS)” in this sec-
tion).
When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain, travel-
ing into strong head winds, or while towing
heavy trailers), use the Electronic Range Select
(ERS) feature (refer to “Electronic Range Select
(ERS)” in this section) to select a lower gear
range. Under these conditions, using a lower
gear range will improve performance and ex-
tend transmission life by reducing excessive
shifting and heat buildup.
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If the transmission operating temperature ex-
ceeds normal operating limits, the powertrain
controller will modify the transmission shift
schedule and expand the range of torque con-
verter clutch engagement. This is done to pre-
vent transmission damage due to overheating.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the
“Transmission Temperature Warning Light” may
illuminate and the transmission may downshift
out of Overdrive until the transmission cools
down.
NOTE:
Use caution when operating a heavily
loaded vehicle at low speeds (such as tow-
ing a trailer up a steep grade, or in stop-
and-go traffic) during hot weather. In these
conditions, torque converter slip can im-
pose a significant additional heat load on
the cooling system. Downshifting the trans-
mission to the lowest possible gear (when
climbing a grade), or shifting to NEUTRAL
(when stopped in heavy traffic) can help to
reduce this excess heat generation.
During cold temperatures, transmission opera-
tion may be modified depending on engine andtransmission temperature as well as vehicle
speed. This feature improves warm up time of
the engine and transmission to achieve maxi-
mum efficiency. Engagement of both the torque
converter clutch and the top overdrive gear are
inhibited until the transmission fluid is warm
(refer to the “Note” under “Torque Converter
Clutch” in this section). During extremely cold
temperatures (-16°F [-27°C] or below), opera-
tion may briefly be limited to first and direct
gears only. Normal operation will resume once
the transmission temperature has risen to a
suitable level.
Transmission Limp Home Mode
Transmission function is monitored electroni-
cally for abnormal conditions. If a condition is
detected that could result in transmission dam-
age, Transmission Limp Home Mode is acti-
vated. In this mode, the transmission remains in
direct gear regardless of which forward gear is
selected. PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL will
continue to operate. The Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) may be illuminated. Limp Home
Mode allows the vehicle to be driven to an
authorized dealer for service without damaging
the transmission.
In the event of a momentary problem, the
transmission can be reset to regain all forward
gears by performing the following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK/OFF
position.
4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the
problem is no longer detected, the transmis-
sion will return to normal operation.
NOTE:
Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit your authorized
dealer at your earliest possible conve-
nience. Your authorized dealer has diagnos-
tic equipment to determine if the problem
could recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized
dealer service is required.
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excessive shifting. When operating in TOW/
HAUL mode, transmission upshifts are de-
layed, and the transmission will automatically
downshift (for engine braking) during steady
braking maneuvers.
The “TOW/HAUL Indicator Light” will illuminate
in the instrument cluster to indicate that TOW/
HAUL mode has been activated. Pressing the
switch a second time restores normal opera-
tion. If the TOW/HAUL mode is desired, the
switch must be pressed each time the engine is
started.Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy
has been included in the automatic transmis-
sion on your vehicle. A clutch within the torque
converter engages automatically at calibrated
speeds. This may result in a slightly different
feeling or response during normal operation in
the upper gears. When the vehicle speed
drops or during some accelerations, the clutch
automatically disengages.
NOTE:
•
The torque converter clutch will not en-
gage, and the transmission will not shift
into the top overdrive gear, until the trans-
mission fluid and engine coolant are
warm [usually after 1 to 3 miles (1.6 to
4.8 km) of driving]. Because top gear is
disabled, and engine speed is higher
when the torque converter clutch is not
engaged, it may seem as if the transmis-
sion is not shifting properly when cold.
This is normal. Using the Electronic
Range Select (ERS) feature, when the
transmission is sufficiently warm, will
demonstrate 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 transmission
into gear may seem sluggish. This is due
to the fluid partially draining from the
torque converter into the transmission.
This condition is normal and will not
cause damage to the transmission. The
torque converter will refill within five sec-
onds after starting the engine.
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION
Quadra-Trac II Operating
Instructions/Precautions
The Quadra-Trac II transfer case is fully auto-
matic in the normal driving 4WD AUTO mode.
The Quadra-Trac II transfer case provides
three mode positions:
• 4WD HI
• NEUTRAL
• 4WD LOW
This transfer case is fully automatic in the 4WD
HI mode.
TOW/HAUL Switch
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When additional traction is required, the 4WD
LOW position can be used to lock the front and
rear driveshafts together and force the front
and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed.
The 4WD LOW position is intended for loose,
slippery road surfaces only. Driving in the 4WD
LOW position on dry, hard-surfaced roads may
cause increased tire wear and damage to
driveline components.
When operating your vehicle in 4WD LOW, the
engine speed is approximately three times that
of the 4WD HI position at a given road speed.
Take care not to overspeed the engine and do
not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h).
Proper operation of four-wheel drive vehicles
depends on tires of equal size, type, and
circumference on each wheel. Any difference
will adversely affect shifting and cause damage
to the transfer case.
Because four-wheel drive provides improved
traction, there is a tendency to exceed safe
turning and stopping speeds. Do not go faster
than road conditions permit.WARNING!
You or others could be injured if you leave the
vehicle unattended with the transfer case in
the N (Neutral) position without first fully en-
gaging the parking brake. The transfer case N
(Neutral) position disengages both the front
and rear driveshafts from the powertrain and
will allow the vehicle to move regardless of the
transmission position. The parking brake
should always be applied when the driver is
not in the vehicle.
Shift Positions
For additional information on the appropriate
use of each transfer case mode position, see
the information below:
4WD AUTO
This range is used on surfaces such as ice,
snow, gravel, sand, and dry hard pavement.NOTE:
Refer to “Selec-Terrain
– If Equipped” in
“Starting and Operating” for further infor-
mation on the various positions and their
intended usages.
NEUTRAL
This range disengages both the front and rear
driveshafts from the powertrain. It is to be used
for flat towing behind another vehicle. Refer to
“Recreational Towing” in “Starting and Operat-
ing” for further information.
4WD LOW
This range is for low speed four-wheel drive. It
locks the front and rear driveshafts together
and forces the front and rear wheels to rotate at
the same speed. It provides additional traction
and maximum pulling power for loose, slippery
road surfaces only. Do not exceed 25 mph
(40 km/h).
NOTE:
Refer to “Selec-Terrain – If Equipped” for
further information on the various positions
and their intended usages.
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Shifting Procedures
4WD HI to 4WD LOW
With the vehicle at speeds of 0 to 3 mph (0 to
5 km/h), the ignition switch in the ON position or
the engine running, shift the transmission into
NEUTRAL, and press the “4WD LOW” button
once on the transfer case switch. The “4WD
LOW” indicator light in the instrument cluster
will begin to flash and remain on solid when the
shift is complete.NOTE:
If shift conditions/interlocks are not met, or
a transfer case motor temperature protec-
tion condition exists, a “For 4x4 Low Slow
Below 3 MPH or 5 KPH Put Trans in N Press
4 Low” will flash from the Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC). Refer to “Elec-
tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in
“Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.
4WD LOW to 4WD HI
With the vehicle at speeds of 0 to 3 mph (0 to
5 km/h), the ignition switch in the ON position or
the engine running, shift the transmission into
NEUTRAL, and press the “4WD LOW” button
once on the transfer case switch. The “4WD
LOW” indicator light in the instrument cluster
will flash and go out when the shift is complete.
NOTE:
•
If shift conditions/interlocks are not met,
or a transfer case motor temperature pro-
tection condition exists, a “For 4x4 High
Slow Below 3 MPH or 5 KPH Put Trans in N Press 4 Low” message will flash from
the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC). Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Infor-
mation Center (EVIC)” in “Understanding
Your Instrument Panel” for further infor-
mation.
• Shifting into or out of 4WD LOW is pos-
sible with the vehicle completely stopped;
however, difficulty may occur due to the
mating clutch teeth not being properly
aligned. Several attempts may be re-
quired for clutch teeth alignment and shift
completion to occur. The preferred
method is with the vehicle rolling 0 to
3 mph (0 to 5 km/h). If the vehicle is
moving faster than 3 mph (5 km/h), the
transfer case will not allow the shift.
NEUTRAL Shift Procedure
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position,
engine off.
2. Vehicle stopped, with foot on brake.
3. Place the transmission into NEUTRAL.
Transfer Case Switch
233

4. Hold down the NEUTRAL “pin” switch (with
a pen, etc.) for four seconds until the LED light
by the switch starts to blink indicating shift in
progress. The light will stop blinking (stay on
solid) when the NEUTRAL shift is complete.
5. Repeat Steps 1 to 4 to shift out of NEUTRAL.
NOTE:
If shift conditions/interlocks are not met, a
“To Tow Vehicle Safely, Read Neutral Shift
Procedure in Owners Manual” message will
flash from the Electronic Vehicle Informa-
tion Center (EVIC). Refer to “Electronic Ve-hicle Information Center (EVIC)” in “Under-
standing Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.
Quadra-Drive
II System – If
Equipped
The optional Quadra-Drive II System features
two torque transfer couplings. The couplings
include an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential
(ELSD) rear axle and the Quadra-Trac II trans-
fer case. The optional ELSD axle is fully auto-
matic and requires no driver input to operate.
Under normal driving conditions, the unit func-
tions as a standard axle, balancing torque
evenly between left and right wheels. With a
traction difference between left and right
wheels, the coupling will sense a speed differ-
ence. As one wheel begins to spin faster than
the other, torque will automatically transfer from
the wheel that has less traction, to the wheel
that has traction. While the transfer case and
axle coupling differ in design, their operation is
similar. Follow the Quadra-Trac II transfer case
shifting information, preceding this section, for
shifting this system.
SELEC-TERRAIN™ — IF EQUIPPED
Description
Selec-Terrain™ combines the capabilities of
the vehicle control systems, along with driver
input, to provide the best performance for all
terrains.
Neutral Switch
Selec-Terrain™ Switch
234

If you stall or begin to lose forward motion
while climbing a steep hill, allow your vehicle to
come to a stop and immediately apply the
brakes. Restart the engine, and shift into RE-
VERSE. Back slowly down the hill, allowing the
compression braking of the engine to help
regulate your speed. If the brakes are required
to control vehicle speed, apply them lightly and
avoid locking or skidding the tires.
WARNING!
If the engine stalls, you lose forward motion,
or cannot make it to the top of a steep hill or
grade, never attempt to turn around. To do so
may result in tipping and rolling the vehicle.
Always back carefully straight down a hill in
REVERSE gear. Never back down a hill in
NEUTRAL using only the brake.
Remember, never drive diagonally across a
hill always drive straight up or down.
If the wheels start to slip as you approach the
crest of a hill, ease off the accelerator and
maintain forward motion by turning the front wheels slowly. This may provide a fresh “bite”
into the surface and will usually provide traction
to complete the climb.
Traction DownhillShift the transmission into a low gear, and the
transfer case into 4WD LOW range. Let the
vehicle go slowly down the hill with all four
wheels turning against engine compression
drag. This will permit you to control the vehicle
speed and direction.
When descending mountains or hills, repeated
braking can cause brake fade with loss of
braking control. Avoid repeated heavy braking
by downshifting the transmission whenever
possible.
After Driving Off-RoadOff-road operation puts more stress on your
vehicle than does most on-road driving. After
going off-road, it is always a good idea to
check for damage. That way you can get any
problems taken care of right away and have
your vehicle ready when you need it.
•
Completely inspect the underbody of your
vehicle. Check tires, body structure, steer-
ing, suspension, and exhaust system for
damage.
• Inspect the radiator for mud and debris and
clean as required.
• Check threaded fasteners for looseness,
particularly on the chassis, drivetrain com-
ponents, steering, and suspension. Re-
tighten them, if required, and torque to the
values specified in the Service Manual.
• Check for accumulations of plants or brush.
These things could be a fire hazard. They
might hide damage to fuel lines, brake
hoses, axle pinion seals, and propeller
shafts.
• After extended operation in mud, sand, wa-
ter, or similar dirty conditions, have the ra-
diator, fan, brake rotors, wheels, brake lin-
ings, and axle yokes inspected and cleaned
as soon as possible.
241