2019 Ram 1500 ERS

WARNING!
The air suspension system uses a high pressure vol-
ume of air to operate the system. To avoid personal
injury or damage to the system, see your authorized
dealer for service.
Air Suspension Modes
The Air Suspension system has multiple modes to protect
the system in unique situations:
Automatic AERO Mode
To improve aerodynamics, the air suspension system has a
feature which will put the vehicle into AERO height
automatically. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in
“Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.
Automatic Aero Mode may be disabled through vehicle
settings in the instrument cluster display or through your
Uconnect Radio if equipped. Refer to “Instrument Cluster
Display” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” or
“Uconnect Settings” in “Multimedia” for further informa-
tion.NOTE:
This mode is intended to be enabled with engine
running.
Tire Jack Mode
To assist with changing a tire, the air suspension system
has a feature which allows the automatic leveling to be
disabled. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Get-
ting To Know Your Instrument Panel” or “Uconnect Set-
tings” in “Multimedia” if equipped with a touch screen
radio for further information.
NOTE: This mode is intended to be enabled with engine
running.
Transport Mode
For towing your vehicle with four wheels off the road, the
air suspension system has a feature which will put the
vehicle into Entry/Exit height and disable the automatic
load leveling system. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Dis-
play” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” or
“Uconnect Settings” in “Multimedia” if equipped with a
touch screen radio for further information.
NOTE: This mode is intended to be enabled with engine
running.6
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•Normal Ride Height (NRH) – This is the standard
position of the suspension and is meant for normal
driving.
• Off-Road (OR) (Raises the vehicle approximately 1 in
(26 mm)) – This position is intended for off-roading use
only where maximum ground clearance is required. To
enter OR, push the height selector switch up once from
the NRH position while vehicle speed is below 20 mph
(32 km/h). While in OR, if the vehicle speed exceeds
25 mph (40 km/h) the vehicle height will be automati-
cally lowered to NRH. Off-Road may not be available
due to vehicle payload, an instrument cluster display
message will be shown when this occurs.
• Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To
Know Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
CAUTION!
If the vehicle is in Off-Road setting, be aware of your
surroundings, you may not have the clearance required
for certain areas and vehicle damage may occur.
• Aero Mode (Lowers the vehicle approximately .6 in
(15 mm)) – This position provides improved aerody-
namics by lowering the vehicle. The vehicle will auto-
matically enter Aero Mode when the vehicle speed remains between 62 mph (100 km/h) and 66 mph
(106 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or if the vehicle
speed exceeds 66 mph (106 km/h). The vehicle will
return to NRH from Aero Mode if the vehicle speed
remains between 30 mph (48 km/h) and 35 mph
(56 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or if the vehicle
speed falls below 30 mph (48 km/h).
NOTE: Speed thresholds for raising the vehicle only apply
if Automatic Aero Mode is enabled.
• To enter Aero Mode manually push the height selector
switch down once from NRH at any vehicle speed. To
return to NRH push the height selector switch up once
while vehicle speed is less than 56 mph (90 km/h).
NOTE: Automatic Aero Mode may be disabled through
vehicle settings on your Uconnect Radio.
• Entry/Exit Mode (Lowers the vehicle approximately
3 in (73 mm)) – This position lowers the vehicle for
easier passenger entry and exit as well as lowering the
rear of the vehicle for easier loading and unloading of
cargo. To enter Entry/Exit Mode, push the height selec-
tor switch down twice from the NRH while the vehicle
speed is below 33 mph (53 km/h). Once the vehicle
speed goes below 15 mph (24 km/h) the vehicle height
will begin to lower. If the vehicle speed remains between
6
STARTING AND OPERATING 329

WARNING!
The air suspension system uses a high pressure vol-
ume of air to operate the system. To avoid personal
injury or damage to the system, see your authorized
dealer for service.
Air Suspension Modes
The Air Suspension system has multiple modes to protect
the system in unique situations:
AERO Mode
To improve aerodynamics, the air suspension system has a
feature which will put the vehicle into AERO height automati-
cally. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To
Know Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
NOTE:This mode is intended to be enabled with engine
running.
Tire Jack Mode
To assist with changing a tire, the air suspension system has a
feature which allows the automatic leveling to be disabled.
Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know
Your Instrument Panel” or “Uconnect Settings” in “Multime-
dia” if equipped with a touch screen radio for further informa-
tion.
NOTE: This mode is intended to be enabled with engine
running.
Transport Mode
For towing your vehicle with four wheels off the road, the
air suspension system has a feature which will put the
vehicle into Entry/Exit height and disable the automatic
load leveling system. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Dis-
play” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” or
“Uconnect Settings” in “Multimedia” if equipped with a
touch screen radio for further information.
NOTE: This mode is intended to be enabled with engine
running.
Wheel Alignment Mode
Before performing a wheel alignment, this mode must be
enabled. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting
To Know Your Instrument Panel” or “Uconnect Settings” in
“Multimedia” if equipped with a touch screen radio for
further information.
NOTE: This mode is intended to be enabled with engine
running.
6
STARTING AND OPERATING 331

The locking rear axle is controlled by the AXLE LOCKER
button.
Under normal driving conditions, the rear axle should be
unlocked.
During the command to lock the rear axle, the indicator
light will flash until the axle is locked. After the lock
command has been successfully executed, the light will
remain on solid.
Operating in 4WD LOW the locker can be engaged up to
40 mph (64 km/h) and will remain engaged throughout the
4WD LOW speed range.
Operating the locker in 2WD, 4WD AUTO, and 4WD
LOCK/HIGH the locker can be engaged up to 20 mph
(32 km/h). While driving with the locker engaged, if speed
exceeds 25 mph (40 km/h), the locker will automatically
disengage, but will automatically reengage at 20 mph
(32 km/h).
NOTE:Left to right wheel speed difference may be neces-
sary to allow the rear axle to fully lock. If the indicator light
is flashing after selecting the rear axle lock mode, drive the
vehicle in a turn or on loose gravel to expedite the locking
action. The axle locker could become torque locked due to side to
side loads on the rear axle. Driving slowly while turning
the steering wheel from a left hand turn to a right hand
turn or driving in REVERSE for a short distance may be
required to release the torque lock and unlock the axles.
To unlock the rear axle; push the AXLE LOCK button. The
AXLE LOCK indicator light will go out when the rear axle
is unlocked.
LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED
The limited-slip differential provides additional traction on
snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel, particularly when there is
a difference between the traction characteristics of the
surface under the right and left rear wheels. During normal
driving and cornering, the limited-slip unit performs simi-
larly to a conventional differential. On slippery surfaces,
however, the differential delivers more of the driving effort
to the rear wheel having the better traction.
The limited-slip differential is especially helpful during
slippery driving conditions. With both rear wheels on a
slippery surface, a slight application of the accelerator will
supply maximum traction. When starting with only one
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STARTING AND OPERATING 335

rear wheel on an excessively slippery surface, slight mo-
mentary application of the parking brake may be necessary
to gain maximum traction.
WARNING!
When servicing vehicles equipped with a limited-slip
or locking differential never run the engine with one
rear wheel off the ground since the vehicle may drive
through the rear wheel remaining on the ground and
result in unintended movement.
Care should be taken to avoid sudden accelerations when
both rear wheels are on a slippery surface. This could cause
both rear wheels to spin, and allow the vehicle to slide
sideways on the crowned surface of a road or in a turn.
POWER STEERING
Electric Power Steering
The electric power steering system will give you good
vehicle response and increased ease of maneuverability in
tight spaces. The system will vary its assist to provide light
efforts while parking and good feel while driving. If the electric steering system experiences a fault that prevents it
from providing assist, you will still have the ability to steer
the vehicle manually.
If the Steering icon is flashing, it indicates that the vehicle
needs to be taken to the dealer for service. It is likely the
vehicle has lost power steering assistance.
If the Steering icon is displayed and the “POWER STEER-
ING SYSTEM OVER TEMP” message is displayed on the
instrument cluster screen, they indicate that extreme steer-
ing maneuvers may have occurred which caused an over
temperature condition in the power steering system. Once
driving conditions are safe, pull over and let the vehicle
idle for a few moments until the icon and message turn off.
Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know
Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
If the Steering icon is displayed and the “SERVICE POWER
STEERING – ASSIST OFF” message is displayed the in-
strument cluster screen, they indicate the vehicle needs to
be taken to the dealer for service. Refer to “Instrument
Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument
Panel” for further information.
336 STARTING AND OPERATING

NOTE:
•Even if the power steering assistance is no longer
operational, it is still possible to steer the vehicle. Under
these conditions there will be a substantial increase in
steering effort, especially at low speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
• If the condition persists, see your authorized dealer for
service.
FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY 5.7L ENGINES ONLY
— IF EQUIPPED
This feature offers improved fuel economy by shutting off
four of the engine’s eight cylinders during light load and
cruise conditions. The system is automatic with no driver
inputs or additional driving skills required.
NOTE: This system may take some time to return to full
functionality after a battery disconnect.
STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
The Stop/Start function is developed to save fuel and
reduce emissions. The system will stop the engine auto-
matically during a vehicle stop if the required conditions
are met. Releasing the brake pedal will automatically
restart the engine. Vehicles equipped with eTorque contain a heavy duty
motor generator and an additional hybrid electric battery
to store energy from vehicle deceleration for use on engine
startup after a stop as well as providing launch torque
assist.
Automatic Mode
The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every normal cus-
tomer engine start. It will remain in STOP/START NOT
READY until you drive forward with a vehicle speed
greater than 2 mph (3 km/h). At that time, the system will
go into STOP/START READY and if all other conditions
are met, can go into an STOP/START AUTO STOP ACTIVE
“Autostop” mode.
To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following Must
Occur:
1. The system must be in STOP/START READY state. A
STOP/START READY message will be displayed in the
instrument cluster within the Stop/Start section. Refer
to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To know
Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
2. The vehicle must be completely stopped.
3. The transmission Gear Selector must be in DRIVE and the brake pedal depressed.
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STARTING AND OPERATING 337

The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to
the zero position and the stop/start telltale will illuminate
indicating you are in an Autostop. While in an Autostop,
the Climate Controls system may automatically adjust
airflow to maintain cabin comfort. Customer settings will
be maintained upon return to an engine running condition.
Possible Reasons The Engine Does Not Autostop
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions to see if they are fulfilled. In
following situations, the engine will not Autostop:
•Driver ’s seat belt is not buckled.
• Driver ’s door is not closed.
• The vehicle is on a steep grade.
• Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an acceptable
cabin temperature has not been achieved.
• HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower speed.
• Engine has not reached normal operating temperature.
• Engine temperature too high.
• The battery is charging.
• The transmission is not in DRIVE. •
Hood is open.
• Vehicle is in 4LO transfer case mode.
• Accelerator pedal input.
• Excessive 12 volt loads.
It may be possible to operate the vehicle several consecu-
tive times in extreme conditions and not meet all criteria to
enable an Autostop state.
To Start The Engine While In Autostop Mode
While in DRIVE, the engine will start when the brake pedal
is released or the throttle pedal is depressed and the
transmission will automatically reengage upon engine
restart.
Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start Auto-
matically While In Autostop Mode
The engine will start automatically when:
• The transmission selector is moved from DRIVE to
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, or PARK.
• To maintain cabin temperature near the HVAC settings.
• HVAC is set to full defrost mode.
• 12 volt demand requires engine restart.
338 STARTING AND OPERATING

The Cruise Control system has two control modes:
•Adaptive Cruise Control mode for maintaining an ap-
propriate 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
this section.
NOTE: 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 Control
buttons. The two control modes function differently. Al-
ways confirm which mode is selected.
WARNING!
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is a convenience
system. It is not a substitute for active driving
involvement. It is always the driver ’s responsibility
to be attentive of road, traffic, and weather condi-
tions, vehicle speed, distance to the vehicle ahead;
and, most importantly, brake operation to ensure safe
operation of the vehicle under all road conditions.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
Your complete attention is always required while
driving to maintain safe control of your vehicle.
Failure to follow these warnings can result in a
collision and death or serious personal injury.
• The ACC system:
• Does not react to pedestrians, oncoming vehicles,
and stationary objects (e.g., a stopped vehicle in a
traffic jam or a disabled vehicle).
• Cannot take street, traffic, and weather conditions
into account, and may be limited upon adverse
sight distance conditions.
• 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
approximately 3 minutes in the stop position. If the
target vehicle does not start moving within 3
minutes the parking brake will be activated, and
the ACC system will be cancelled.
(Continued)
344 STARTING AND OPERATING