2016 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE User Guide

– Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
This light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system.
If a problem is detected, the light will come on while the engine is running. Cycle the
ignition when the vehicle has completely stopped and the gear selector 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 service center immediately. If the light is flashing when
the engine is running, immediate service is required and you may experience reduced
performance, an elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your vehicle may require
towing.
– 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) or Driver Information Display (DID) when one or more of your tires is
significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure EVIC or DID
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 or DID display.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
191

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.
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. Aftermar-
ket 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.
– Seat Belt Reminder Light
When the ignition switch is first turned to the ON/RUN position, this light will turn on
for four to eight seconds as a bulb check. During the bulb check, if the driver's seat
belt is unbuckled, a chime will sound. After the bulb check or when driving, if the
driver or front passenger seat belt remains unbuckled, the Seat Belt Indicator Light
will flash or remain on continuously. Refer to “Seat Belt Systems” in “Things To
Know Before Starting” in your Owner’s Manual on the DVD for further information.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
192

– 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 brake
system master cylinder 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.
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.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
193

– 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
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.
– 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 IndicatorLight” 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.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
194

• To improve the vehicle's traction when starting off in deep snow, sand or gravel, itmay be desirable to switch the ESC system to Partial Off mode by momentarily
pushing the ESC Off
switch located below the climate controls, on the switch
panel.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER INDICATOR LIGHTS
– Low Fuel Warning Light
This warning light indicates when the fuel level reaches approximately 1.5 gal
(5.8 L). This light will turn on and a single chime will sound.
– Turn Signal Indicator
The arrows will flash with the exterior turn signals when the turn signal lever is
operated. A tone will chime, and a DID message will appear if either turn signal is left
on for more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
NOTE:
If either indicator flashes at a rapid rate, check for a defective outside light bulb.
– High Beam Indicator
Indicates that headlights are on high beam.
– Front Fog Light Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the front fog lights are on.
– Park/Headlight ON Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the park lights or headlights are turned on.
– Vehicle Security Light
This light will flash rapidly for approximately 15 seconds when the vehicle security
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.
– Electronic Speed Control ON Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the electronic speed control has been activated to
the “ON” position.
– Electronic Speed Control SET Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the cruising speed has been set.
– Hill Descent Control Indicator — If Equipped
This indicator will illuminate when Hill Descent Control (HDC) has been selected
using the Hill Descent Control Switch.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
195

– Door Open Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when a door(s) is left open and not fully closed.
– Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF Indicator Light
This light indicates the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is off.
– Windshield Washer Fluid Low Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the windshield washer fluid is low.
– Hood Open Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the hood is left open and not fully closed.
– Liftgate Ajar Indicator — If Equipped
This indicator will illuminate when the liftgate is left ajar and not fully closed.
Engine Oil Life Reset
Oil Change Required
Your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil change indicator system. The “Oil Change
Required” message will display in the DID for five seconds after a single chime has
sounded, to indicate the next scheduled oil change interval. The engine oil change
indicator 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 temporarily, push and
release the OK 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 pushing the brake pedal, push the ENGINE START/STOP button andplace the ignition to the ON/RUN position (do not start the engine.)
2. Fully depress the accelerator pedal, slowly, three times within 10 seconds.
3. Without pushing the brake pedal, push the ENGINE START/STOP button once to return the ignition to the OFF/LOCK position.
NOTE:
If the indicator message illuminates when you start the vehicle, the oil change
indicator system did not reset. If necessary, repeat this procedure.
NOTE:
It can also be reset using the Oil Life menu in Vehicle Info.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
196

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 notincrease the engine idle speed while preventing vehicle motion with the brakes.
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
supplement to the radiator and aids in removing heat from the engine cooling
system.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could damage your vehicle. If the temperature
gauge reads HOT (H), pull over and stop the vehicle. 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 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.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
197

JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING
WARNING!
• Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of the vehicle close to movingtraffic. Pull far enough off the road to avoid the danger of being hit when
operating the jack or changing the wheel.
• Being under a jacked-up vehicle is dangerous. The vehicle could slip off the
jack and fall on you. You could be crushed. Never put any part of your body
under a vehicle that is on a jack. If you need to get under a raised vehicle, take
it to a service center where it can be raised on a lift.
• Never start or run the engine while the vehicle is on a jack.
• The jack is designed to be used as a tool for changing tires only. The jack
should not be used to lift the vehicle for service purposes. The vehicle should
be jacked on a firm level surface only. Avoid ice or slippery areas.
Run Flat Tires — SRT Models
This vehicle is equipped with “run flat” tires. Run flat tires allow the vehicle to be
driven approximately 50 miles (80km) at 55 mph (88km/h). Tire service should be
obtained to avoid prolonged run flat feature usage.
WARNING!
Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) if the “Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light”
is illuminated. Vehicle handling and braking may be reduced. You could have a
collision and be severely or fatally injured.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
198