2012 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 momentarily illuminate in both outside
rear view mirrors to let the driver know that the
system is operational. The BSM system sen-
sors operate when the vehicle is in any forwardgear 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
Illuminated Vanity Mirror
Rear Detection Zones
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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.
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
• When towing a trailer up or down steep
slopes.
• 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 ve-
hicles. Always be aware of the mode se-
lected. You can change the mode by using the Cruise
Control buttons. The two control modes func-
tion differently. Always confirm which mode is
selected.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Operation
The speed control buttons (located on the right
side of the steering wheel) operates the ACC
system.
1 — DISTANCE SETTING
2 — RES
+
3 — SET -
4 — CANCEL
5 — ON/OFF
6 — MODE
11 8

•Objects such as bicycle carriers, trailer
hitches, etc., must not be placed within
12 in (30 cm) from the rear fascia/bumper
while driving the vehicle. Failure to do so
can result in the system misinterpreting a
close object as a sensor problem, caus-
ing the “SERVICE PARK ASSIST SYS-
TEM” message to be displayed in the
instrument cluster.
• On vehicles equipped with a tailgate,
ParkSense should be disabled when the
tailgate is in the lowered or open position.
A lowered tailgate could provide a false
indication that an obstacle is behind the
vehicle.
CAUTION!
• ParkSense is only a parking aid and it is
unable to recognize every obstacle, includ-
ing small obstacles. Parking curbs might be
temporarily detected or not detected at all.
Obstacles located above or below the sen-
sors will not be detected when they are in
close proximity.
(Continued)
CAUTION!(Continued)
• The vehicle must be driven slowly when
using ParkSense in order to be able to
stop in time when an obstacle is detected.
When backing up, it is recommended that
the driver looks over his/her shoulder when
using ParkSense.
WARNING!
• Drivers must be careful when backing up
even when using the ParkSense Park
Assist System. Always check carefully be-
hind your vehicle, look behind you, and be
sure to check for pedestrians, animals,
other vehicles, obstructions, and blind
spots before backing up. You are respon-
sible for safety and must continue to pay
attention to your surroundings. Failure to
do so can result in serious injury or death.
(Continued)
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
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desired position, retighten the with the wrench
to lock the crossbar into position.
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.
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INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
DESCRIPTIONS
1. Tachometer
Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM x 1000).
2. Air Bag Warning LightThis 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 either not on during
starting, stays on, or turns on while
driving, have the system inspected at an au-
thorized dealer as soon as possible. Refer to
“Occupant Restraints” in “Things To Know Be-
fore Starting Your Vehicle” for further informa-
tion.
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,
wood, 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
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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
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4WD system is not functioning properly and
that service is required.
EVIC Red Telltale LightsThis area will show reconfigurable red telltales.
These telltales include:
•Door Ajar
This light will turn on to indicate
that one or more doors may be
ajar.
• Liftgate Ajar
This light will turn on to indicate
that liftgate may be ajar.
• Liftgate Flipper Glass Ajar
This light will turn on to indicate
that liftgate flipper glass may be
ajar. •
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light indicates low engine oil pres-
sure. The light should turn on momen-
tarily when the engine is started. If the
light turns on while driving, stop the vehicle and
shut off the engine as soon as possible. A
chime will sound when this light turns on.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is
corrected. This light does not show how much
oil is in the engine. The engine oil level must be
checked under the hood.
• Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the elec-
trical charging system. The light
should come on when the ignition
switch is first turned ON and remain on briefly
as a bulb check. If the light stays on or comes
on while driving, turn off some of the vehicle’s
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. You
may experience reduced performance, an
elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your
vehicle may require towing.
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•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,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.
WARNING!
If the Transmission Temperature Warning
Light is illuminated and you continue operat-
ing the vehicle, in some circumstances you
could cause the fluid to boil over, come in
contact with hot engine or exhaust compo-
nents and cause a fire.
Engine Oil Change Indicator System
Oil Change Due
Your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil
change indicator system. The “Oil Change
Due” message will flash in the EVIC display for
approximately 10 seconds after a single chime
has sounded, to indicate the next scheduled oil
change interval. The engine oil change indica-
tor system is duty cycle based, which means
the engine oil change interval may fluctuate,
dependent upon your personal driving style.
Unless reset, this message will continue to
display each time you turn the ignition switch to
the ON/RUN position or cycle the ignition to the
ON/RUN position if equipped with Keyless
Enter-N-Go. To turn off the message temporar-
ily, press and release the MENU button. To
reset the oil change indicator system (after
performing the scheduled maintenance) refer
to the following procedure.
Vehicles Equipped With Keyless
Enter-N-Go
1. Without pressing the brake pedal, push the
ENGINE START/STOP button and cycle the
ignition to the ON/RUN position (Do not start
the engine.)
2. Fully depress the accelerator pedal, slowly,
three times within 10 seconds.
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