2012 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE tow

5. Press and maintain firm pressure on the
brake pedal.6. Using the screwdriver or similar tool, press
and hold the shift lock lever down.
7. Move the shift lever to the NEUTRAL posi-
tion.
8. The vehicle may then be started in NEU-
TRAL.
9. Reinstall the shift lever override access
cover and install the rubber liner into the cup-
holder.
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLEThis section describes procedures for towing a
disabled vehicle using a commercial wrecker
service. If the transmission and drivetrain are
operable, disabled vehicles may also be towedas described under “Recreational Towing” in
the “Starting And Operating” section.
NOTE:
Vehicles equipped with Quadra-Lift™ must
be lowered to the Park (lowest) level, and
have automatic leveling disabled, before ty-
ing them down (from the body) on a trailer or
flatbed truck. Refer to the section on
Quadra-Lift™ for more information. If the
vehicle cannot be lowered to the Park level
(for example, engine will not run), tie-downs
must be fastened to the axles (not to the
body). Failure to follow these instructions
may cause fault codes to be set and/or loss
of proper tie-down tension.
Shift Lever Override Access Cover
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Towing ConditionWheels OFF the Ground 4WD Models
Flat Tow NONESee instructions in “Recreational Towing” under “Starting and Operating”
•
Transmission in PARK
• Transfer case in NEUTRAL
• To w i n forward direction
Wheel Lift or Dolly Tow Front
NOT ALLOWED
Rear NOT ALLOWED
Flatbed ALL BEST METHOD
Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to
prevent damage to your vehicle. Use only tow
bars and other equipment designed for the
purpose, following equipment manufacturer’s
instructions. Use of safety chains is mandatory.
Attach a tow bar or other towing device to main
structural members of the vehicle, not to bum-
pers or associated brackets. State and local
laws applying to vehicles under tow must be
observed. If you must use the accessories (wipers, de-
frosters, etc.) while being towed, the ignition
must be in the ON/RUN position, not the ACC
position.
If the vehicle’s battery is discharged, see
Brake/Transmission Interlock Manual Override
(under Starting and Operating, Automatic
Transmission) for instructions on shifting the
automatic transmission out of the PARK posi-
tion for towing.
CAUTION!
•
Do not attempt to use sling type equipment
when towing. When securing the vehicle to
a flat bed truck, do not attach to front or rear
suspension components. Damage to your
vehicle may result from improper towing.
• If the vehicle being towed requires steering,
the ignition must be in the ON/RUN or ACC
position, not in the LOCK/OFF position.
292

Towing Without The Ignition Key
Fob
Special care must be taken when the vehicle is
towed with the ignition in the LOCK/OFF posi-
tion. The only approved method of towing with-
out the ignition key is with a flatbed truck.
Proper towing equipment is necessary to pre-
vent damage to the vehicle.
Four-Wheel Drive VehiclesThe manufacturer recommends towing with all
wheelsOFFthe ground. Acceptable methods
are to tow the vehicle on a flatbed or with one
end of vehicle raised and the opposite end on
a towing dolly.
If flatbed equipment is not available, and the
transfer case is operable, the vehicle may be
towed (in the forward direction, with ALL
wheels on the ground), IFthe transfer case is in
NEUTRAL and the transmission is in PARK.
Refer to “Recreational Towing” in “Starting And
Operating” for detailed instructions.CAUTION!
• Front or rear wheel lifts should not be used.
Internal damage to the transmission or
transfer case will occur if a front or rear
wheel lift is used when towing.
• Failure to follow these towing methods can
cause severe damage to the transmission
and/or transfer case. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited War-
ranty.
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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.
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4. Install the wiper blade pivot pin into the
wiper blade holder at the end of the wiper arm,
and firmly press the wiper blade until it snaps
into place.
5. Lower the wiper blade and snap the pivot
cap into place.
Adding Washer FluidThe fluid reservoir for the windshield washers
and the rear window washer is shared. The fluid
reservoir is located in the engine compartment,
be sure to check the fluid level at regular
intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield
washer solvent only (not radiator antifreeze).
When refilling the washer fluid reservoir, take
some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or
towel and wipe clean the wiper blades, this will
help blade performance. To prevent freeze-up
of your windshield washer system in cold
weather, select a solution or mixture that meets
or exceeds the temperature range of your cli-
mate. This rating information can be found on
most washer fluid containers.
WARNING!
Commercially available windshield washer
solvents are flammable. They could ignite and
burn you. Care must be exercised when filling
or working around the washer solution.
Exhaust SystemThe best protection against carbon monoxide
entry into the vehicle body is a properly main-
tained engine exhaust system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the
exhaust system; or if the exhaust fumes can be
detected inside the vehicle; or when the under-
side or rear of the vehicle is damaged; have an
authorized technician inspect the complete ex-
haust system and adjacent body areas for
broken, damaged, deteriorated, or misposi-
tioned parts. Open seams or loose connections
could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the
passenger compartment. In addition, inspect
the exhaust system each time the vehicle is
raised for lubrication or oil change. Replace as
required.
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain
carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and
odorless. Breathing it can make you uncon-
scious and can eventually poison you. To
avoid breathing CO, refer to “Safety Tips/
Exhaust Gas” in “Things To Do Before Starting
Your Vehicle” for further information.
CAUTION!
The catalytic converter requires the use of
unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will de-
stroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as an
emissions control device and may seriously
reduce engine performance and cause seri-
ous damage to the engine.
Under normal operating conditions, the cata-
lytic converter will not require maintenance.
However, it is important to keep the engine
properly tuned to assure proper catalyst opera-
tion and prevent possible catalyst damage.
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CAUTION!
Damage to the catalytic converter can result if
your vehicle is not kept in proper operating
condition. In the event of engine malfunction,
particularly involving engine misfire or other
apparent loss of performance, have your ve-
hicle serviced promptly. Continued operation
of your vehicle with a severe malfunction
could cause the converter to overheat, result-
ing in possible damage to the converter and
vehicle.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions con-
trol systems can result in civil penalties
being assessed against you.WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such ma-
terials might be grass or leaves coming into
contact with your exhaust system. Do not park
or operate your vehicle in areas where your
exhaust system can contact anything that can
burn.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunc-
tioning engine operation, a scorching odor may
suggest severe and abnormal catalyst over-
heating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off
the engine and allow it to cool. Service, includ-
ing a tuneup to manufacturer’s specifications,
should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter
damage:
• Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the
ignition, when the transmission is in gear and
the vehicle is in motion.
• Do not try to start the engine by pushing or
towing the vehicle. •
Do not idle the engine with any spark plug
wires disconnected or removed, such as
when diagnostic testing, or for prolonged
periods during very rough idle or malfunc-
tioning operating conditions.
Cooling System
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot
engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from
your radiator. If you see or hear steam coming
from under the hood, do not open the hood
until the radiator has had time to cool. Never
try to open a cooling system pressure cap
when the radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
Engine Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protec-
tion every 12 months (before the onset of
freezing weather, where applicable). If the en-
gine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty in
appearance, the system should be drained,
flushed and refilled with fresh engine coolant
(antifreeze). Check the front of the A/C con-
denser for any accumulation of bugs, leaves,
308

•Use MOPAR Touch Up Paint or equivalent
on scratches or chips as soon as possible.
Your authorized dealer has touch up paint to
match the color of your vehicle.
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care
All wheels and wheel trim, especially aluminum
and chrome-plated wheels should be cleaned
regularly with a mild soap and water to prevent
corrosion. To remove heavy soil, use MOPAR
Wheel Cleaner or select a nonabrasive, non-
acidic cleaner. Do not use scouring pads, steel
wool, a bristle brush or metal polishes. Only
MOPAR cleaners or equivalent are recom-
mended. Do not use oven cleaner. Avoid auto-
matic car washes that use acidic solutions or
harsh brushes that may damage the wheels’
protective finish.
Stain Repel Fabric Cleaning Procedure – If
Equipped
Stain Repel seats may be cleaned in the follow-
ing manner:
• Remove as much of the stain as possible by
blotting with a clean, dry towel.
• Blot any remaining stain with a clean, damp
towel. •
For tough stains, apply MOPAR Total Clean
or a mild soap solution to a clean, damp
cloth and remove the stain. Use a fresh,
damp towel to remove soap residue.
• For grease stains, apply MOPAR Multi-
Purpose Cleaner or equivalent to a clean,
damp cloth and remove the stain. Use a
fresh, damp towel to remove soap residue.
• Do not use any harsh solvents or any other
form of protectants on Stain Repel products.
Interior Care
Use MOPAR Total Clean or equivalent to clean
fabric upholstery and carpeting.
Interior Trim should be cleaned starting with a
damp cloth, a damp cloth with MOPAR Total
Clean or equivalent, then MOPAR Spot & Stain
Remover or equivalent, if absolutely necessary.
Do not use harsh cleaners or Armor All . Use
MOPAR Total Clean or equivalent to clean
vinyl upholstery.
Leather Seat Care And Cleaning
MOPAR Total Clean or equivalent is specifi-
cally recommended for leather upholstery. Your leather upholstery can be best preserved
by regular cleaning with a damp soft cloth.
Small particles of dirt can act as an abrasive
and damage the leather upholstery and should
be removed promptly with a damp cloth. Stub-
born soils can be removed easily with a soft
cloth and MOPAR
Total Clean or equivalent.
Care should be taken to avoid soaking your
leather upholstery with any liquid. Please do
not use polishes, oils, cleaning fluids, solvents,
detergents, or ammonia-based cleaners to
clean your leather upholstery. Application of a
leather conditioner is not required to maintain
the original condition.
WARNING!
Do not use volatile solvents for cleaning pur-
poses. Many are potentially flammable, and if
used in closed areas, they may cause respi-
ratory harm.
Cleaning Headlights
Your vehicle has plastic headlights that are
lighter and less susceptible to stone breakage
than glass headlights.
317

Plastic is not as scratch-resistant as glass and
therefore different lens cleaning procedures
must be followed.
To minimize the possibility of scratching the
lenses and reducing light output, avoid wiping
with a dry cloth. To remove road dirt, wash with
a mild soap solution followed by rinsing.
Do not use abrasive cleaning components,
solvents, steel wool or other aggressive mate-
rial to clean the lenses.
Glass Surfaces
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a
regular basis with MOPARGlass Cleaner or
any commercial household-type glass cleaner.
Never use an abrasive type cleaner. Use cau-
tion when cleaning inside rear windows
equipped with electric defrosters. Do not use
scrapers or other sharp instruments which may
scratch the elements.
When cleaning the rearview mirror, spray
cleaner on the towel or rag that you are using.
Do not spray cleaner directly on the mirror. Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in this
vehicle are molded in clear plastic. When
cleaning the lenses, care must be taken to
avoid scratching the plastic.
1. Clean with a wet soft rag. A mild soap
solution may be used, but do not use high
alcohol content or abrasive cleaners. If soap is
used, wipe clean with a clean damp rag.
2. Dry with a soft cloth.
Seat Belt Maintenance
Do not bleach, dye or clean the belts with
chemical solvents or abrasive cleaners. This
will weaken the fabric. Sun damage will also
weaken the fabric.
If the belts need cleaning, use MOPAR
Total
Clean, a mild soap solution, or lukewarm water.
Do not remove the belts from the vehicle to
wash them. Dry with a soft cloth.
Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn
or if the buckles do not work properly.FUSES
Totally Integrated Power Module
The Totally Integrated Power Module is located
in the engine compartment. This center con-
tains cartridge fuses and mini fuses. A descrip-
tion of each fuse and component may be
stamped on the inside cover, otherwise the
cavity number of each fuse is stamped on the
inside cover that corresponds to the following
chart.
Totally Integrated Power Module
318