•Air Conditioner Control
Push this button to turn
on the air conditioning
during manual opera-
tion only. When the air
conditioning is turned
on, cool dehumidified air
will flow through the out-
lets selected with the
Mode control dial. Push
this button a second time to turn OFF the air
conditioning. An LED in the button illuminates
when manual compressor operation is selected.
•Recirculation Control
The system will automatically con-
trol recirculation. However, pushing
the Recirculation Control button
will put the system in recirculation
mode. This can be used when out-
side conditions such as smoke, odors, dust, or
high humidity are present. Activating recircula-
tion will cause the LED in the control button to
illuminate.NOTE:
•When the ignition switch is turned to the
LOCK position, the recirculation feature
will be cancelled.
•In cold weather, use of the Recirculation
mode may lead to excessive window fog-
ging. The Recirculation mode is not al-
lowed in defrost mode in order to improve
window clearing. Recirculation will be
disabled automatically if these modes are
selected.
•Extended use of recirculation may cause
the windows to fog. If the interior of the
windows begins to fog, push the Recircu-
lation button to return to outside air.
Some temp/humidity conditions will
cause captured interior air to condense
on windows and hamper visibility. For
this reason, the system will not allow
Recirculation to be selected while in de-
frost mode. Attempting to use the recircu-
lation while in these modes will cause the
LED in the control button to blink and
then turn off.•Most of the time, when in Automatic Op-
eration, you can temporarily put the sys-
tem into Recirculation Mode by pushing
the Recirculation button. However, under
certain conditions, while in Automatic
Mode, the system is blowing air out the
defrost vents. When these conditions are
present, and the Recirculation button is
pushed, the indicator will flash and then
turn off. This tells you that you are unable
to go into Recirculation Mode at this time.
If you would like the system to go into
Recirculation Mode, you must first move
the Mode knob to Panel, Bi-Level and then
push the Recirculation button. This fea-
ture reduces the possibility of window
fogging.
Operating Tips
NOTE:
Refer to the chart at the end of this section
for suggested control settings for various
weather conditions.
157
Summer Operation
The engine cooling system must be protected
with a high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide
proper corrosion protection and to protect
against engine overheating. A solution of 50%
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant that
meets the requirements of FCA Material Stan-
dard MS.90032 and 50% water is recom-
mended. Refer to “Maintenance Procedures” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for proper coolant
selection.
Winter Operation
Use of the air Recirculation Mode during winter
months is not recommended because it may
cause window fogging.
Vacation Storage
Anytime 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 the fresh air and high blower
settings. This will ensure adequate system lu-
brication to minimize the possibility of compres-
sor damage when the system is started again.Window Fogging
Interior fogging on the windshield can be quickly
removed by turning the mode selector to De-
frost. The Defrost/Floor mode can be used to
maintain a clear windshield and provide suffi-
cient heating. If side window fogging becomes a
problem, increase blower speed. Vehicle win-
dows tend to fog on the inside in mild but rainy
or humid weather.
NOTE:
Recirculate without A/C should not be used
for long periods as fogging may occur.
Side Window Demisters
A side window demister outlet is located at each
end of the instrument panel. These non-
adjustable outlets direct air toward the side
windows when the system is in the FLOOR,
MIX, or DEFROST mode. The air is directed at
the area of the windows through which you view
the outside mirrors.Outside Air Intake
Make sure the air intake, located directly in front
of the windshield, is free of obstructions such as
leaves. Leaves collected in the air intake may
reduce airflow, and if they enter the plenum,
they could plug the water drains. In winter
months, make sure the air intake is clear of ice,
slush, and snow.
A/C Air Filter — If Equipped
The A/C Filter prevents most dust and pollen
from entering the cabin. The filter acts on air
coming from outside the vehicle and recircu-
lated air within the passenger compartment.
Refer to “Maintenance Procedures” in “Main-
taining Your Vehicle” for A/C Air Filter service
information or see your authorized dealer for
service. Refer to “Maintenance Schedules” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for filter service inter-
vals.
158
WARNING!(Continued)
your vehicle harder to control. You could
have a collision. Have the vehicle checked
immediately.
ELECTRONIC BRAKE
CONTROL SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced
Electronic Brake Control system (EBC). This
system includes Electronic Brake Force Distri-
bution (EBD), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS),
Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill Start Assist
(HSA), Traction Control System (TCS), Elec-
tronic Stability Control (ESC), and Electronic
Roll Mitigation (ERM). These systems work
together to enhance both vehicle stability and
control in various driving conditions.
Your vehicle may also be equipped with Hill
Descent Control (HDC).
Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD)
This function manages the distribution of the
braking torque between the front and rear axles
by limiting braking pressure to the rear axle.
This is done to prevent overslip of the rear
wheels to avoid vehicle instability, and to pre-
vent the rear axle from entering ABS before the
front axle.
Brake System Warning LightThe red “Brake System Warning Light” will turn
on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON
position and may stay on for as long as four
seconds.
If the “Brake System Warning Light” remains on
or comes on while driving, it indicates that the
brake system is not functioning properly and
that immediate service is required. If the “Brake
System Warning Light” does not come on when
the ignition switch is turned to the ON position,
have the light repaired as soon as possible.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) provides
increased vehicle stability and brake perfor-
mance under most braking conditions. The sys-
tem automatically prevents wheel lock, and
enhances vehicle control during braking.
The ABS performs a self-check cycle to ensure
that the ABS is working properly each time the
vehicle is started and driven. During this self-
check, you may hear a slight clicking sound as
well as some related motor noises.
ABS is activated during braking when the sys-
tem detects one or more wheels begins to lock.
Road conditions such as ice, snow, gravel,
bumps, railroad tracks, loose debris, or panic
stops may increase the likelihood of ABS acti-
vation(s).
You also may experience the following when
ABS activates:
•The ABS motor noise (it may continue to run
for a short time after the stop).
•The clicking sound of solenoid valves.
•Brake pedal pulsations.
187
cold tire inflation pressure must not exceed the
maximum inflation pressure molded into the tire
sidewall.
Check tire pressures more often if subject to a
wide range of outdoor temperatures, as tire
pressures vary with temperature changes.
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 = 68°F (20°C)
and the outside temperature = 32°F (0°C) then
the cold tire inflation pressure should be in-
creased by 3 psi (21 kPa), which equals 1 psi (7
kPa) for every 12°F (7°C) for this outside tem-
perature condition.
Tire pressure may increase from 2 to 6 psi (13
to 40 kPa) during operation. DO NOT reduce
this normal pressure build up or your tire pres-
sure will be too low.Tire Pressures For High Speed
Operation
The manufacturer advocates driving at safe
speeds and within posted speed limits. Where
speed limits or conditions are such that the
vehicle can be driven at high speeds, maintain-
ing correct tire inflation pressure is very impor-
tant. Increased tire pressure and reduced ve-
hicle loading may be required for high-speed
vehicle operation. Refer to your authorized tire
dealer or original equipment vehicle dealer for
recommended safe operating speeds, loading
and cold tire inflation pressures.
WARNING!
High speed driving with your vehicle under
maximum load is dangerous. The added
strain on your tires could cause them to fail.
You could have a serious collision. Do not
drive a vehicle loaded to the maximum ca-
pacity at continuous speeds above 75 mph
(120 km/h).
Radial Ply Tires
WARNING!
Combining radial ply tires with other types of
tires on your vehicle will cause your vehicle
to handle poorly. The instability could cause
a collision. Always use radial ply tires in sets
of four. Never combine them with other types
of tires.
Tire Repair
If your tire becomes damaged, it may be re-
paired if it meets the following criteria:
•The tire has not been driven on when flat.
•The damage is only on the tread section of
your tire (sidewall damage is not repairable).
•The puncture is no greater thana¼ofan
inch (6 mm).
Consult an authorized tire dealer for tire repairs
and additional information.
Damaged Run Flat tires, or Run Flat tires that
have experienced a loss of pressure should be
replaced immediately with another Run Flat tire
197
5. Once you repair or replace the original road
tire and reinstall it on the vehicle in place of
the compact spare tire, the TPMS will update
automatically and the Tire Pressure Monitor-
ing Telltale Light will turn OFF, as long as no
tire pressure is below the low-pressure
warning limit in any of the four active road
tires. The vehicle may need to be driven for
up to 10 minutes above 15 mph (24 km/h) in
order for the TPMS to receive this informa-
tion.
Premium System — If EquippedThe TPMS uses wireless technology with wheel
rim mounted electronic sensors to monitor tire
pressure levels. Sensors, mounted to each
wheel as part of the valve stem, transmit tire
pressure readings to the receiver module.
NOTE:
It is particularly important for you to check
the tire pressure in all of your tires regularly
and to maintain the proper pressure.
The TPMS consists of the following compo-
nents:•Receiver Module
•Four Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors
•Three Trigger Modules (mounted in three of
the four wheel wells)
•Various Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Messages, which display in the Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
•Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light
Tire Pressure Monitoring Low Pressure
Warnings
The Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light will
illuminate in the instrument cluster and an au-
dible chime will be activated when one or more
of the four active road tire pressures are low.
The audible chime will sound once every igni-
tion cycle for the first condition that it detects. In
addition, the EVIC will display a “LOW TIRE”
text message for a minimum of five seconds
and a graphic of the pressure value(s) with the
low tire(s) flashing.Should a low tire condition occur on any of the
four active road tire(s), you should stop as soon
as possible and inflate all tires that are flashing
on the graphic display to the vehicle’s recom-
mended cold placard pressure value. The sys-
tem will automatically update, the “LOW TIRE”
text message will no longer be displayed, the
graphic display of the pressure value(s) will stop
flashing, and the Tire Pressure Monitoring Light
will extinguish once the updated tire pressure(s)
have been received.
Tire Pressure Monitoring Display
207
WARNING!(Continued)
•Guard against carbon monoxide with
proper maintenance. Have the exhaust
system inspected every time the vehicle is
raised. Have any abnormal conditions re-
paired promptly. Until repaired, drive with
all side windows fully open.
•Keep the liftgate closed when driving your
vehicle to prevent carbon monoxide and
other poisonous exhaust gases from en-
tering the vehicle.
ADDING FUEL
Locking Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap)The locking gas cap is inside the fuel filler door,
on the left side of the vehicle. If the gas cap is
lost or damaged, be sure the replacement cap
is for use with this vehicle.
1. Turn off the engine.2. Insert the ignition key into the fuel cap and
turn the key one-quarter turn to the right,
then rotate the fuel cap to the left to remove.
3. After removing the gas cap, place the gas
cap tether cable over a hook on the inside of
the fuel door. This keeps the gas cap sus-
pended away from and protects the vehicle’s
surface.
4. Rotate the ignition key back to the left to
remove the key from the cap.
5. To replace the cap, insert it into the filler neck
and tighten to the right until at least one click
is heard.NOTE:
•When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off,
the fuel tank is full.
•Tighten the gas cap about 1/4 turn until
you hear one click. This is an indication
that cap is properly tightened.
•If the gas cap is not tightened properly,
the MIL will come on. Be sure the gas cap
is tightened every time the vehicle is
refueled.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap MessageIf the vehicle diagnostic system determines that
the fuel filler cap is loose or improperly installed,
a “gASCAP” message will be displayed in the
Odometer/Trip Odometer in the instrument clus-
ter. Refer to “Warning And Indicator Lights” in
“Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for fur-
ther information. Tighten the fuel filler cap prop-
erly and push the odometer/trip odometer RE-
SET button to turn the message off. If the
problem continues, the message will appear the
next time the vehicle is started. Refer to “On-
board Diagnostic System” in “Maintaining Your
Vehicle” for further information.
212
Towing TipsBefore setting out on a trip, practice turning,
stopping and backing the trailer in an area away
from heavy traffic.
Manual Transmission — If Equipped
If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer
towing, all starts must be in first gear to avoid
excessive clutch slippage.
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing.
However, if frequent shifting or changes in
engine speed occur while in DRIVE, use the
AutoStick shift control to manually select a
lower gear ratio.
NOTE:
Using a lower gear ratio while operating the
vehicle under heavy loading conditions, will
improve performance and extend transmis-
sion life by reducing excessive 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 asspecified for"police, taxi, fleet, or frequent
trailer towing."Refer to the “Maintenance
Schedule” for the proper maintenance intervals.
AutoStick
•When using the AutoStick shift control, select
the highest gear that allows for adequate
performance and avoids frequent downshifts.
For example, choose"4"if the desired speed
can be maintained. Choose"3"or"2"if
needed to maintain the desired speed.
•To prevent excess heat generation, avoid
continuous driving at high RPM. Reduce
vehicle speed as necessary to avoid ex-
tended driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and
road conditions allow.
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.
222
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS
The Hazard Warning flasher switch is located
on the instrument panel below the climate
controls.
Push 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. Push 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 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 pointer rises to the
H(red) mark, the instrument cluster will
sound a chime. When safe, pull over and
stop the vehicle with the engine at idle. Turn
off the air conditioning and wait until the
pointer drops back into the normal range. If
the pointer remains on theH(red) mark for
more than a minute, 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.
227