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 dealer for service if your
vehicle overheats. If you decide to look un-
der the hood yourself, see “Maintaining Your
Vehicle”. Follow the warnings under the
Cooling System Pressure Cap paragraph.
26. Rear Fog Light Indicator — If Equipped 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.
The EVIC consists of the following:
•Fuel Economy
• ACC: (If Equipped)
• Vehicle Speed
• Trip Info •
Terrain: (If Equipped)
• Tire PSI/KPA: (If Equipped)
• Vehicle Info
• Messages
• Units: English/Metric
• System Setup
• Turn Menu Off
The system allows the driver to select informa-
tion by pressing the following buttons mounted
on the steering wheel:
168
Obtain SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. See an autho-
rized dealer.
•If jump starting is required, refer to “Jump
Starting Procedures” in “What To Do In
Emergencies”.
• 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 autho-
rized 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. How-
ever, 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 per-
formance, an elevated/rough idle or engine
stall and your vehicle may require towing.
• Engine Temperature Warning Light
This light warns of an overheated en-
gine condition. As temperatures rise
and the gauge approaches H,this in-
dicator 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 tem-
perature 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 converter slip condition,
such as 4-wheel-drive operation (e.g., snow
plowing, off- road operation). If this light comes
on, stop the vehicle and run the engine at idle or
faster, with the transmission in NEUTRAL until
the light goes off.
CAUTION!
Continuous driving with the Transmission
Temperature Indicator illuminated will even-
tually cause severe transmission damage or
transmission failure.
176
Recirculation ControlWhen outside air contains smoke,
odors, or high humidity, or if rapid
cooling is desired, you may wish to
recirculate interior air by pressing
the Recirculation control button.
Recirculation mode should only be
used temporarily. The recirculation LED will
illuminate when this button is selected. Push the
button a second time to turn off the Recircula-
tion mode LED and allow outside air into the
vehicle.
NOTE:
In cold weather, use of Recirculation mode
may lead to excessive window fogging. The
Recirculation mode is not allowed in the
Defrost mode to improve window clearing
operation. Recirculation will be disabled au-
tomatically if this mode is selected.Operating Tips
Window Fogging
Windows will fog on the inside when the humid-
ity inside the vehicle is high. This often occurs in
mild or cool temperatures when it’s rainy or
humid. In most cases, turning the air condition-
ing (pressing the A/C button) on will clear the
fog. Adjust the temperature control, air direc-
tion, and blower speed to maintain comfort.
As the temperature gets colder, it may be
necessary to direct air onto the windshield.
Adjust the temperature control and blower
speed to maintain comfort. Higher blower
speeds will reduce fogging. Interior fogging on
the windshield can be quickly removed by se-
lecting the Defrost mode.
Regular cleaning of the inside of the windows
with a non-filming cleaning solution (vinegar
and water works very well) will help prevent
contaminates (cigarette smoke, perfumes, etc.)
from sticking to the windows. Contaminates
increase the rate of window fogging. Summer Operation
NOTE:
In some cases during high temperature
trailer tow operation the Air Conditioning
system performance may be reduced. This
is to help protect the engine from overheat-
ing during the high load condition.
Your air conditioning system is also equipped
with an automatic recirculation system. When
the system senses a heavy load or high heat
conditions, it may use partial Recirculation A/C
mode to provide additional comfort.
Winter Operation
When operating the system during the winter
months, make sure the air intake, located di-
rectly in front of the windshield, is free of ice,
slush, snow, or other obstructions.
Vacation/Storage
Any time you store your vehicle or keep it out of
service (i.e., vacation) for two weeks or more,
run the air conditioning system at idle for about
five minutes in fresh air with the blower setting
in high. This will ensure adequate system lubri-
cation to minimize the possibility of compressor
damage when the system is started again.
213
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 opti-
mum driving characteristics under all normal
operating conditions.
To access all six available gears, you must use
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control
(refer to “Electronic Range Select (ERS) Opera-
tion” in this section).
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) shift control (refer to “Electronic Range
Select (ERS) Operation” in this section) to se-
lect a lower gear range. Under these conditions,
using a lower gear range will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by reducing
excessive shifting and heat buildup.If the transmission temperature exceeds normal
operating limits, the powertrain controller will
modify the transmission shift schedule and ex-
pand the range of torque converter clutch en-
gagement. This is done to prevent transmission
damage due to overheating.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot or is
in danger of overheating, the “Transmission
Temperature Warning Light” may illuminate and
the transmission may operate differently 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.
234
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an elec-
tronically controlled Overdrive (fourth and fifth
gears). The transmission will automatically shift
into Overdrive if the following conditions are
present:
•the shift lever is in the DRIVE position,
• the transmission fluid has reached an ad-
equate temperature,
• the engine coolant has reached an adequate
temperature,
• vehicle speed is sufficiently high,
• the driver is not heavily pressing the accel-
erator, and
•
the TOW/HAUL switch has not been activated.
When To Use TOW/HAUL Mode
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer,
carrying a heavy load, etc., and frequent trans-
mission shifting occurs, press the TOW/HAUL
switch to activate TOW/HAUL mode. This will
improve performance and reduce the potential
for transmission overheating or failure due to
excessive shifting. When operating in TOW/ HAUL mode, transmission upshifts are delayed,
and the transmission will automatically down-
shift (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 operation.
Normal operation is always the default at en-
gine start-up. If 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 auto-
matically 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 (2 to 5 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 transmission is not
shifting properly when cold. This is nor-
mal. Using the Electronic Range Select
(ERS) shift control, when the transmis-
sion is sufficiently warm, will demon-
strate that the transmission is able to shift
into and out of Overdrive.
TOW/HAUL Switch
236
Pin
Number Function Wire
Color
11
aReturn for Contact (Pin) 10 Yellow/
Brown
12 Reserve for Future Allocation –
13
aReturn for Contact (Pin) 9 Red/
Brown
NOTE:
The allocation pin 12 has been changed
from “Coding for coupled Trailer” to
“Reserve for Future Allocation.”
aThe three return circuits shall not be
connected electrically in the trailer.
bThe rear position registration plate illumi-
nation device shall be connected such
that no light of the device has a common
connection with both pins 5 and 7.
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 towing.
The transmission controls include an adaptive
drive strategy to avoid frequent shifting when
towing. However, if frequent shifting does occur
while in DRIVE, select TOW mode, or use the
AutoStick® shift control to select a lower gear.
NOTE:
Using TOW mode or selecting a lower gear
while operating the vehicle under heavy load-
ing conditions, will improve performance and
extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat buildup. This action will
also provide better engine braking.
If you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than
45 minutes of continuous operation, then change
the transmission fluid and filter(s) as specified for
"police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing. Refer
to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Electronic Speed Control – If Equipped
• Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
• When using the speed control, if you experi-
ence speed drops greater than 10 mph
(16 km/h), disengage until you can get back
to cruising speed.
• Use speed control in flat terrain and with light
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, shift the
transmission into NEUTRAL and increase en-
gine idle speed.
Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Air Conditioning
Turn off temporarily.
285
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
•HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS ....................294
• IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS ....................294
• JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING ...................295
•Jack Location ............................. .295
• Spare Tire Stowage ......................... .295
• Preparations For Jacking ...................... .295
• Jacking Instructions ......................... .296
• Road Tire Installation ......................... .299
•JUMP-STARTING .............................300•Preparations For Jump-Start .................... .300
• Jump-Starting Procedure ...................... .301
•FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE .....................302
• TOW EYES .................................303
• SHIFT LEVER OVERRIDE ........................304
• TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE ....................304
•Without The Key Fob ......................... .306
• Four-Wheel Drive Models ...................... .306
293
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS
The Hazard Warning flasher switch is located
on the switch bank just above the climate
controls.Press the switch to turn on the Hazard
Warning flasher. When the switch is
activated, all directional turn signals
will flash on and off to warn oncoming traffic of
an emergency. Press the switch a second time
to turn off the Hazard Warning flashers.
This is an emergency warning system and it
should not be used when the vehicle is in
motion. Use it when your vehicle is disabled and
it is creating a safety hazard for other motorists.
When you must leave the vehicle to seek assis-
tance, the Hazard Warning flashers will con-
tinue to operate even though the ignition is
placed in the OFF position.
NOTE:
With extended use the Hazard Warning
flashers may wear down your battery.
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
In any of the following situations, you can
reduce the potential for overheating by taking
the appropriate action.
• On the highways — slow down.
• In city traffic — while stopped, place the
transmission in NEUTRAL, but do not in-
crease the engine idle speed.
NOTE:
There are steps that you can take to slow
down an impending overheat condition:
• If your air conditioner (A/C) is on, turn it
off. The A/C system adds heat to the
engine cooling system and turning the
A/C off can help remove this heat.
• You can also turn the temperature control
to maximum heat, the mode control to
floor and the blower control to high. This
allows the heater core to act as a supple-
ment to the radiator and aids in removing
heat from the engine cooling system.CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could dam-
age your vehicle. If the temperature gauge
reads HOT (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
HOT (H), and you hear continuous chimes,
turn the engine off immediately and call for
service.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot
engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from
your radiator. If you see or hear steam com-
ing 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.
294