Page 331 of 558

When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such as
when operating the vehicle under heavy loading condi-
tions, in hilly terrain, traveling into strong head winds, or
while towing heavy trailers), use the TOW/HAUL mode,
or select the2range at lower speeds. Under these
conditions, using TOW/HAUL mode or the 2range
will improve performance and extend transmission life
by reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
If the transmission operating temperature exceeds nor-
mal operating limits, the powertrain controller will
modify the transmission shift schedule and expand the
range of torque converter clutch engagement. This is
done to prevent transmission damage due to overheat-
ing.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the “Trans-
mission Temperature Warning Light” may illuminate and
the transmission may downshift out of Overdrive until
the transmission cools down. During cold temperatures, transmission operation may
be modified depending on engine and transmission
temperature as well as vehicle speed. This feature im-
proves warm up time of the engine and transmission to
achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of the torque
converter clutch is inhibited until the transmission fluid
is warm (refer to the “Note” under “Torque Converter
Clutch” in this section). During extremely cold tempera-
tures (-16°F [-27°C] or below), operation may briefly be
limited to second gear only. Normal operation will re-
sume once the transmission temperature has risen to a
suitable level.
2 (Second)
This range is used for moderate grades and to assist
braking on dry pavement or in mud and snow. Begins at
a stop in low gear with automatic upshift into second
gear. Will not shift into third gear.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 329
Page 334 of 558

NOTE:TOW/HAUL mode locks out Overdrive.
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 operation. 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 transmission on your vehicle.
A clutch within the torque converter engages automati-
cally 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 engage
until the transmission fluid and engine coolant are warm
[usually after 1 to 3 miles (1.6 to 4.8 km) of driving].
Because the engine speed is higher when the torque
converter clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the
transmission is not shifting into Overdrive when cold.
This is normal. Pressing the TOW/HAUL switch, when
the transmission is sufficiently warm, will demonstrate
that the transmission is able to shift into and out of
Overdrive.
Tow/Haul Button
332 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 554 of 558

Compact Spare...................... 381
General Information .................. 377
High Speed ......................... 380
Inflation Pressures .................... 378
Jacking ............................ 435
Life of Tires ........................ 384
Load Capacity .................... 373,374
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) ......... 389
Pressure Warning Light ................ 224
Quality Grading ..................... 531
Radial ............................ 380
Replacement ........................ 385
Rotation ........................... 388
Safety ............................. 368
Sizes ............................. 369
Spare Tire .......................... 436
Spinning ........................... 383
Tread Wear Indicators ................. 384
To Open Hood .......................... 156 Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight
.............. 417
Torque Converter Clutch .................. 332
Tow/Haul Indicator Light ................. 230
Towing ............................ 409,450
24-Hour Towing Assistance ............. 117
Disabled Vehicle ..................... 450
Guide ............................. 415
Recreational ........................ 424
Weight ............................ 415
Towing Assistance ....................... 117
Traction Control ......................... 356
Trailer Towing .......................... 409
Cooling System Tips .................. 424
Hitches ............................ 414
Minimum Requirements ................ 418
Trailer and Tongue Weight .............. 417
Wiring ............................ 421
Trailer Towing Guide ..................... 415
Trailer Weight .......................... 415
552 INDEX