2014 DODGE DURANGO User Guide

All-Wheel Drive Models (Single-Speed Transfer Case)
Recreational towing is not allowed.This model does not have a NEUTRAL position in the
transfer case.
NOTE:
This vehicle may be towed on a flatbed or vehicle trailer provided all four wheels are OFF the
ground.
CAUTION!
Towing this vehicle in violation of the above requirements can cause severe transmis-
sion and/or transfer case damage. Damage from improper towing is not covered under
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
All-Wheel Drive Models (Two-Speed Transfer Case)
The transfer case must be shifted into NEUTRAL (N) and the transmission must be in PARK
for recreational towing. The NEUTRAL (N) selection button is at the center of the transfer
case selector switches. Shifts into transfer case NEUTRAL (N) can take place from any
other transfer case mode.
CAUTION!
• DO NOT dolly tow any All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle. Internal damage to the trans- mission or transfer case will occur if a dolly is used when recreational towing.
• Tow only in the forward direction. Towing this vehicle backwards can cause severe
damage to the transfer case.
• The transmission must be in PARK for recreational towing.
• Before recreational towing, perform the procedure outlined under “Shifting Into
NEUTRAL(N)” to be certain that the transfer case is fully in NEUTRAL (N). Otherwise,
internal damage will result.
• Failure to follow these procedures can cause severe transmission and/or transfer
case damage. Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
• Do not use a bumper-mounted clamp-on tow bar on your vehicle. The bumper face
bar will be damaged.
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Shifting Into NEUTRAL
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for recreational towing:
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, with the engine running.
2. Press and hold the brake pedal.
3. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
4. Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, press and hold the recessed transfer caseNEUTRAL (N) button (located by the selector switch) for four seconds. The light behind
the N symbol will blink, indicating shift in progress. The light will stop blinking (stay on
solid) when the shift to NEUTRAL (N) is complete. A “FOUR WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM IN
NEUTRAL” message will display on the EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center).
5. After the shift is completed and the NEUTRAL (N) light stays on, release the NEUTRAL (N) button.
6. Shift the transmission into REVERSE.
7. Release the brake pedal for five seconds and ensure that there is no vehicle movement.
8. Shift the transmission back into NEUTRAL.
9. Firmly apply the parking brake.
10. With the transmission and transfer case in NEUTRAL, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button until the engine turns off. Turning the engine off will automatically
place the transmission in PARK.
11.
Press the ENGINE STOP/START button again (without pressing the brake pedal), if needed,
to turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
CAUTION!
Damage to the transmission may occur if the transmission is shifted into PARK with the
transfer case in NEUTRAL (N) and the engine running. With the transfer case in NEUTRAL
(N) ensure that the engine is OFF before shifting the transmission into PARK.
12. Attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle using a suitable tow bar.
13. Release the parking brake.
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NOTE:
• Steps 1 through 3 are requirements that must be met before pressing the NEUTRAL (N)button, and must continue to be met until the shift has been completed. If any of these
requirements are not met before pressing the NEUTRAL (N) button or are no longer met
during the shift, the NEUTRAL (N) indicator light will flash continuously until all require-
ments are met or until the NEUTRAL (N) button is released.
• The ignition switch must be in the ON/RUN position for a shift to take place and for the position indicator lights to be operable. If the ignition switch is not in the ON/RUN
position, the shift will not take place and no position indicator lights will be on or flashing.
• A flashing NEUTRAL (N) position indicator light indicates that shift requirements have not been met.
CAUTION!
•Towing with the rear wheels on the ground will cause severe transmission damage.
Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
• 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 recreational towing.
• It is necessary to follow these steps to be certain that the transfer case is fully in NEUTRAL before recreational towing to prevent damage to internal parts.
WARNING!
You or others could be injured if you leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case
in the NEUTRAL position without first fully engaging the parking brake. The transfer case
NEUTRAL position disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain
and will allow the vehicle to move even if the transmission is in PARK. The parking brake
should always be applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.
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Shifting Out Of NEUTRAL (N)
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for normal usage:
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, leaving it connected to the tow vehicle.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake.
3. Start the engine.
4. Press and hold the brake pedal.
5. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
6. Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, press and hold the recessed transfer caseNEUTRAL (N) button (located by the selector switch) for one second.
7. When the NEUTRAL (N) indicator light turns off, release the NEUTRAL (N) button.
8. After the NEUTRAL (N) button has been released, the transfer case will shift to the position indicated by the selector switch.
9. Shift the transmission into PARK and turn the engine OFF.
10. Release the brake pedal.
11. Disconnect vehicle from the tow vehicle.
12. Start the engine.
13. Press and hold the brake pedal.
14. Release the parking brake.
15. Shift the transmission into DRIVE, release the brake pedal, and check that the vehicle operates normally.
NOTE:
• Steps 1 through 5 are requirements that must be met before pressing the NEUTRAL (N) button, and must continue to be met until the shift has been completed. If any of these
requirements are not met before pressing the NEUTRAL (N) button or are no longer met
during the shift, the NEUTRAL (N) indicator light will flash continuously until all require-
ments are met or until the NEUTRAL (N) button is released.
• The ignition switch must be in the ON/RUN position for a shift to take place and for the position indicator lights to be operable. If the ignition switch is not in the ON/RUN
position, the shift will not take place and no position indicator lights will be on or flashing.
• A flashing NEUTRAL (N) position indicator light indicates that shift requirements have not been met.
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ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
Dial toll-free 1-800-521-2779 for U.S. Residents or 1-800-363-4869 for Canadian Residents.
• Provide your name, vehicle identification number, license plate number, and your loca-tion, including the telephone number from which you are calling.
• Briefly describe the nature of the problem and answer a few simple questions.
• You will be given the name of the service provider and an estimated time of arrival. If you feel you are in an “unsafe situation”, please let us know. With your consent, we will
contact local police or safety authorities.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WARNING LIGHTS
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly, when cold and
inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle
placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the
size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine
the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) which display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) when one
or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure
EVIC display illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and
inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the
tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and
tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
IF THE LIGHT STARTS FLASHING INDICATING A LOW TIRE PRESSURE, ADJUST THE AIR
PRESSURE IN THE LOW TIRE TO THE AIR PRESSURE SHOWN ON THE VEHICLE PLACARD
OR TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE LABEL LOCATED ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR.
NOTE:
After inflation, the vehicle may need to be driven for 20 minutes before the flashing light
will turn off.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the
driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not
reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low EVIC display.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when
the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the
low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for
approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will
continue each time the vehicle is restarted as long as the malfunction exists.
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When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or
signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons,
including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that
prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale
after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle, to ensure that the replacement
or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.
NOTE:
Tire pressures change by approximately 1 psi (7 kPa) per 12° F (7° C) of air temperature
change. Keep this in mind when checking tire pressure inside a garage, especially in the
Winter. Example: If garage temperature is 68°F (20°C) and the outside temperature is 32°F
(0°C), then the cold tire inflation pressure should be increased by 3 psi (21 kPa), which equals
1 psi (7 kPa) for every 12°F (7°C) for this outside temperature condition.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original equipment tires and wheels. TPMS
pressures and warning have been established for the tire size equipped on your vehicle.
Undesirable system operation or sensor damage may result when using replacement
equipment that is not of the same size, type, and/or style. Aftermarket wheels can cause
sensor damage. Do not use tire sealant from a can, or balance beads if your vehicle is
equipped with a TPMS, as damage to the sensors may result.
BRAKE- Brake Warning Light
This light monitors various brake functions, including brake fluid level and parking brake
application. If the brake light turns on it may indicate that the parking brake is applied, that the
brake fluid level is low, or that there is a problem with the anti-lock brake system reservoir.
If the light remains on when the parking brake has been disengaged, and the fluid level is at
the full mark on the master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a possible brake hydraulic system
malfunction or that a problem with the Brake Booster has been detected by the Anti-Lock
Brake System (ABS)/Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. In this case, the light will
remain on until the condition has been corrected. If the problem is related to the brake
booster, the ABS pump will run when applying the brake and a brake pedal pulsation may be
felt during each stop.
The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capacity in the event of a failure to a
portion of the hydraulic system. A leak in either half of the dual brake system is indicated by
the Brake Warning Light, which will turn on when the brake fluid level in the master cylinder
has dropped below a specified level. The light will remain on until the cause is corrected.
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), are also equipped with Electronic
Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning Light will
turn on along with the ABS Light. Immediate repair to the ABS system is required.
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Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by turning the ignition switch from the
OFF position to the ON/RUN position. The light should illuminate for approximately two
seconds. The light should then turn off unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault
is detected. If the light does not illuminate, have the light inspected by an authorized dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the
ON/RUN position.
NOTE:
This light shows only that the parking brake is applied. It does not show the degree of brake
application.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is dangerous. Part of the brake system may
have failed. It will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have a collision. Have the
vehicle checked immediately.
- Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of an onboard diagnostic system called OBD II
that monitors engine and automatic transmission control 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, 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 situations, the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) on could cause damage to
the engine control system. It also could affect fuel economy and driveability. If the MIL is
flashing, severe catalytic converter damage and power loss will soon occur. Immediate
service is required.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as referenced above, can reach higher tempera-
tures 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.
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- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” in the instrument cluster will come on
when the ignition 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 than 30 mph (48 km/h), see your authorized dealer as soon
as possible to have the problem diagnosed and corrected.
NOTE:
• The “ESC Off Indicator Light” and the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” come
on momentarily each time the ignition switch is turned to ON/RUN.
• Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN, the ESC system will be ON, even if it was turned off previously.
• The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop when ESC becomes inactive following the maneuver that caused the
ESC activation.
• To improve the vehicle's traction when starting off in deep snow, sand or gravel, it may be desirable to switch the ESC system to Partial Off mode by momentarily pressing the ESC
Off
switch located below the climate controls, on the switch panel.
- Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the electrical charging system. If the charging system light
remains on, it means that the vehicle is experiencing a problem with the charging system.
We recommend you do not continue driving if the charging system light is on. Have the
vehicle serviced immediately.
- Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light indicates low engine oil pressure. If the light turns on while driving, stop the
vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible. A chime will sound for four minutes
when this light turns on.
We recommend you do not operate the vehicle or engine damage will occur. Have the
vehicle serviced immediately.
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