2018 JEEP COMPASS trailer

To engage REVERSE gear from the NEUTRAL
position, lift the REVERSE ring, located be-
low the knob and move the gear selector all
the way left and then forward.
Shifting
Fully press the clutch pedal before shifting
gears. As you release the clutch pedal, lightly
press the accelerator pedal.You should always use first gear when starting
from a standing position.
Recommended Vehicle Shift Speeds
To utilize your manual transmission effi-
ciently for fuel economy and performance, it
should be upshifted as listed in the recom-mended shift speed chart. Shift at the ve-
hicle speeds listed for acceleration. When
heavily loaded or pulling a trailer, these rec-
ommended up-shift speeds may not apply.
Manual Transmission Shift Speeds in MPH (KM/H)
All EnginesGear Selection 2 to 3 3 to 4 4 to 5 5 to 6
Accel. 24 (39) 34 (55) 47 (76) 56 (90)
Cruise 19 (31) 27 (43) 37 (60) 41 (66)
NOTE:
A certain amount of noise from the transmis-
sion is normal. This noise can be most notice-
able when the vehicle is idling in NEUTRAL
with the clutch engaged (clutch pedal re-
leased), but it may also be heard when driv-
ing. The noise may also be more noticeable
when the transmission is warm. This noise is
normal and is not an indication of a problem
with your clutch or transmission.Downshifting
Moving from a high gear down to a lower gear
is recommended to preserve brakes when
driving down steep hills. In addition, down-
shifting at the right time provides better ac-
celeration when you desire to resume speed.
Downshift progressively. Do not skip gears to
avoid overspeeding the engine and clutch.
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine
braking on a slippery surface. The drive
wheels could lose their grip, and the ve-
hicle could skid.
STARTING AND OPERATING
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WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn
off the ignition to coast down a hill. These
are unsafe practices that limit your re-
sponse to changing traffic or road condi-
tions. You might lose control of the vehicle
and have a collision.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for
any other reason with the transmission in
NEUTRAL can cause severe transmission
damage.
Refer to “Recreational Towing” in “Start-
ing And Operating” and “Towing A Dis-
abled Vehicle” in “In Case Of Emergency”
for further information.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and
highway driving. It provides the smoothest
upshifts and downshifts, and the best fuel
economy. The transmission automatically up-shifts through all forward gears. The DRIVE
position provides optimum driving character-
istics under all normal operating conditions.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain,
traveling into strong head winds, or while
towing a heavy trailer), use the AutoStick
shift control to select a lower gear (refer to
"AutoStick" in this section for further infor-
mation). Under these conditions, using a
lower gear will improve performance and ex-
tend transmission life by reducing excessive
shifting and heat buildup.
If the transmission temperature exceeds nor-
mal operating limits, the transmission con-
troller may modify the transmission shift
schedule, reduce engine torque, and/or ex-
pand the range of torque converter clutch
engagement. This is done to prevent trans-
mission damage due to overheating.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot,
the "Transmission Temperature Warning
Light" may illuminate, and the transmission
may operate differently until the transmis-
sion cools down.During cold temperatures, transmission op-
eration may be modified depending on en-
gine and/or transmission temperature as well
as vehicle speed. This feature improves warm
up time of the engine and transmission to
achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of
the torque converter clutch (and, for the
nine-speed, shifts into 8th or 9th gear), are
inhibited until the engine and/or transmis-
sion is warm (refer to the “Note” under
“Torque Converter Clutch” in this section).
Normal operation will resume once the tem-
perature(s) have risen to a suitable level.
AUTOSTICK
AutoStick is a driver-interactive transmission
feature providing manual shift control, giving
you more control of the vehicle. AutoStick
allows you to maximize engine braking, elimi-
nate undesirable upshifts and downshifts,
and improve overall vehicle performance.
This system can also provide you with more
control during passing, city driving, cold slip-
pery conditions, mountain driving, trailer
towing, and many other situations.
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WARNING!
limited upon adverse sight distance con-
ditions.
• Does not always fully recognize complex
driving conditions, which can result in
wrong or missing distance warnings.
• Will bring the vehicle to a complete stop
while following a target vehicle and hold
the vehicle for 2 seconds in the stop
position. If the target vehicle does not
start moving within two seconds the ACC
system will display a message that the
system will release the brakes and that
the brakes must be applied manually. An
audible chime will sound when the
brakes are released.
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 con-
struction zones).
• When entering a turn lane or highway off
ramp; when driving on roads that are
winding, icy, snow-covered, slippery, or
have steep uphill or downhill slopes.
WARNING!
• When towing a trailer up or down steep
slopes.
• When circumstances do not allow safe
driving at a constant speed.
The Cruise Control system has two control
modes:
• Adaptive Cruise Control mode for main-
taining an appropriate distance between
vehicles.
• 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 your Owner’s Manual for fur-
ther information.
Normal (Fixed Speed) Cruise Control will
not react to preceding vehicles. Always be
aware of the mode selected. You can
change the mode by using the Cruise Con-
trol buttons. The two control modes func-
tion differently. Always confirm which
mode is selected.
PARKSENSE REAR PARK
ASSIST — IF EQUIPPED
The ParkSense Rear Park Assist system pro-
vides visual and audible indications of the
distance between the rear fascia and a de-
tected obstacle when backing up, e.g. during
a parking maneuver. Refer to “ParkSense
System Usage Precautions” for limitations of
this system and recommendations.
ParkSense will retain the last system state
(enabled or disabled) from the last ignition
cycle when the ignition is changed to the
ON/RUN position.
ParkSense can be active only when the gear
selector is in REVERSE. The system will
remain active while in REVERSE until the
vehicle speed is increased to approximately
7 mph (11 km/h) or above. While in RE-
VERSE, and above the system's operating
speed, a warning will appear within the in-
strument cluster display indicating the ve-
hicle speed is too fast. The system will be-
come active again when the vehicle speed is
decreased to speeds less than approximately
6 mph (9 km/h).
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• Clean the ParkSense sensors regularly, tak-
ing care not to scratch or damage them. The
sensors must not be covered with ice, snow,
slush, mud, dirt or debris. Failure to do so
can result in the system not working prop-
erly. The ParkSense system might not de-
tect an obstacle behind the fascia/bumper,
or it could provide a false indication that an
obstacle is behind the fascia/bumper.
• Use the ParkSense switch to turn the
ParkSense system OFF if objects such as
bicycle carriers, trailer hitches, etc. are
placed within 12 inches (30 cm) from the
rear fascia/bumper. Failure to do so can
result in the system misinterpreting a close
object as a sensor problem, causing the
“PARKSENSE UNAVAILABLE SERVICE
REQUIRED” message to be displayed in
the instrument cluster display.
• The operation of the rear sensors is auto-
matically deactivated when the trailer's
electric plug is inserted in the vehicle's tow
hook socket. The rear sensors are automati-
cally reactivated when the trailer's cable
plug is removed.WARNING!
• Drivers must be careful when backing up
even when using ParkSense. Always
check carefully behind your vehicle, look
behind you, and be sure to check for
pedestrians, animals, other vehicles, ob-
structions, and blind spots before back-
ing up. You are responsible for safety
and must continue to pay attention to
your surroundings. Failure to do so can
result in serious injury or death.
• Before using ParkSense, 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 vehicles or
obstacles because the hitch ball will be
much closer to the obstacle than the rear
fascia when the loudspeaker sounds the
continuous tone. Also, the sensors could
detect the ball mount and hitch ball
assembly, depending on its size and
shape, giving 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, in-
cluding small obstacles. Parking curbs
might be temporarily detected or not
detected at all. Obstacles located above
or below the sensors will not be detected
when they are in close proximity.
• The vehicle must be driven slowly when
using ParkSense in order to be able to
stop in time when an obstacle is de-
tected. It is recommended that the
driver looks over his/her shoulder when
using ParkSense.
PARKSENSE FRONT AND
REAR PARK ASSIST
ParkSense Sensors
The four ParkSense sensors, located in the
rear fascia/bumper, monitor the area behind
the vehicle that is within the sensors’ field of
view. The sensors can detect obstacles from
approximately 12 inches (30 cm) up to
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After the ParkSense has been disengaged, it
will stay in this condition until the following
engagement, even if the ignition device
passes from ON/RUN to OFF and then again
to ON/RUN.
Side Distance Warning System
The Side Distance Warning system has the
function of detecting the presence of side
obstacles near the vehicle using the parking
sensors located in the front and rear bum-
pers.
Side Distance Warning Display
The Side Distance Warning screen will only
be displayed if “Sound and Display” is se-
lected from the Customer - Programmable
Features section of the Uconnect System.
Refer to “Uconnect Settings” in “Multime-
dia” in the Owner’s Manual for further infor-
mation.
The system warns the driver with an acoustic
signal and where provided, with visual indi-
cations on the instrument panel display.NOTE:
Parksense will reduce the volume of the radio
if on when the system is sounding an audible
tone.
Activation — Deactivation
The system can operate only after driving a
short distance and if the vehicle speed is
between 0 and 7 mph (0 and 11 km/h). The
system can be activated/deactivated via the
"Settings" menu of the Uconnect system. If
the ParkSense System is deactivated via the
ParkSense Hard switch then the side dis-
tance warning system will automatically be
deactivated.
Message on the display for Side Distance Warn-
ing feature:
“Wiper Sensors” — This message is dis-
played in the case of a failure of the Side
Distance Warning system sensors. Free the
bumpers of any obstacles, ensure that the
front and rear bumper are free of snow, ice,
mud, dirt and debris to keep the ParkSense
system operating properly.“SDW Not Available” — This message is
displayed if the Side Distance Warning sys-
tem is not available. The failed operation of
the system might be due to the insufficient
voltage from the battery or other failures on
the electrical system. Contact an authorized
dealer as soon as possible to have the elec-
trical system checked.
Operation With A Trailer
The operation of the sensors is automatically
deactivated when the trailer's electric plug is
inserted in the vehicle's tow hook socket. The
sensors are automatically reactivated when
the trailer's cable plug is removed.
General Warnings
If “PARKSENSE UNAVAILABLE WIPE REAR
SENSORS" or "PARKSENSE UNAVAILABLE
WIPE FRONT SENSORS” appears in the in-
strument cluster display, clean the
ParkSense sensors with water, car wash soap
and a soft cloth. Do not use rough or hard
cloths. Do not scratch or poke the sensors.
Otherwise, you could damage the sensors.
171

5. Push on the outer edge to open the Fuel
Door.
TRAILER TOWING
Common Towing Definitions
The following trailer towing related defini-
tions will assist you in understanding the
following information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of
your vehicle. This includes driver, passen-
gers, cargo and tongue weight. The total loadmust be limited so that you do not exceed the
GVWR. Refer to “Vehicle Loading/Vehicle
Certification Label” in “Starting And Operat-
ing” for further information.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the
weight of all cargo, consumables and equip-
ment (permanent or temporary) loaded in or
on the trailer in its "loaded and ready for
operation" condition.
The recommended way to measure GTW is to
put your fully loaded trailer on a vehicle
scale. The entire weight of the trailer must be
supported by the scale.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the
front and rear axles. Distribute the load over
the front and rear axles evenly. Make sure
that you do not exceed either front or rear
GAWR. Refer to “Vehicle Loading/Vehicle
Certification Label” in “Starting And Operat-
ing” for further information.
Fuel Filler Door
Filler Pipe
179

WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A danger-
ous driving condition can result if either
rating is exceeded. You could lose control
of the vehicle and have a collision.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The tongue weight is the downward force
exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. You
must consider this as part of the load on your
vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height mul-
tiplied by the maximum width of the front of
a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The trailer sway control can be a mechanical
telescoping link that can be installed be-
tween the hitch receiver and the trailertongue that typically provides adjustable fric-
tion associated with the telescoping motion
to dampen any unwanted trailer swaying mo-
tions while traveling.
If equipped, the electronic Trailer Sway Con-
trol (TSC) recognizes a swaying trailer and
automatically applies individual wheel
brakes and/or reduces engine power to at-
tempt to eliminate the trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer
tongue weight, just as if it were luggage
located at a hitch ball or some other connect-
ing point of the vehicle. These kinds of
hitches are the most popular on the market
today and they are commonly used to tow
small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing system works by apply-
ing leverage through spring (load) bars. They
are typically used for heavier loads to distrib-
ute trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle's
front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used
in accordance with the manufacturer's direc-tions, it provides for a more level ride, offer-
ing more consistent steering and brake con-
trol thereby enhancing towing safety. The
addition of a friction/hydraulic sway control
also dampens sway caused by traffic and
crosswinds and contributes positively to tow
vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer sway con-
trol and a weight distributing (load equaliz-
ing) hitch are recommended for heavier
Tongue Weights (TW) and may be required
depending on vehicle and trailer
configuration/loading to comply with Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.
WARNING!
• An improperly adjusted Weight Distrib-
uting Hitch system may reduce han-
dling, stability, braking performance,
and could result in a collision.
• Weight Distributing Systems may not be
compatible with Surge Brake Couplers.
Consult with your hitch and trailer
manufacturer or a reputable Recre-
ational Vehicle dealer for additional in-
formation.
STARTING AND OPERATING
180

Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)
Engine/Transmission Model Maximum GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.) Maximum Tongue Wt. (See Note)
1.4L Gasoline Engine FWD or 4WD 2,205 lbs (1,000 kg) 110 lbs (50 kg)
2.0L Diesel Engine / Automatic 4WD 3,307 lbs (1,500 kg) 165 lbs (75 kg)
2.0L Diesel Engine / Manual 4WD 4,188 lbs (1,900 kg) 209 lbs (95 kg)
1.6L Diesel Engine FWD 2,205 lbs (1,000 kg) 110 lbs (50 kg)
When towing a trailer the technically permissible laden weight may be exceeded by not more than 10% or 220 lbs (100 kg), whichever is lower
provided that the operating speed is restricted to 62 mph (100 km/h) or less.
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds and loads.
Towing limits quoted represent the maximum towing ability of the vehicle at its Gross Combined Mass to restart on a 12 percent gradient at sea
level.
The performance and economy of all models will be reduced when used for towing.
Towing Requirements
To promote proper break-in of your new ve-
hicle drivetrain components, the following
guidelines are recommended.
CAUTION!
• Do not tow a trailer at all during the first
500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is
driven. The engine, axle or other parts
could be damaged.
• Then, during the first 500 miles
(805 km) that a trailer is towed, do not
CAUTION!
drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and do not
make starts at full throttle. This helps
the engine and other parts of the vehicle
wear in at the heavier loads.
181