158STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
1–4 SKIP SHIFT
In Auto Drive Mode, Default, or Street Drive
Modes, there are times when you must shift the
transmission directly from FIRST gear to
FOURTH gear instead of from FIRST gear to
SECOND gear. This is to help you get the best
possible fuel economy from your vehicle. This
occurs when the engine coolant (antifreeze) is
higher than 106°F (41°C), vehicle speed is
greater than 19 mph (30 km/h) but less than
21 mph (34 km/h), and the transmission is in
FIRST gear, and the accelerator is at ¼ throttle
or less.
NOTE:
The 1 - 4 Skip Shift feature is disabled when
selecting Sport Mode, or when selecting Track
or Custom Drive Modes (SRT only). Refer to the
“Drive Mode Supplement” for further descrip-
tions of these modes.
After you shift the transmission to FOURTH gear,
you can press the clutch in and shift to another
forward gear.
DOWNSHIFTING
To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life,
downshift to maintain a safe speed when
descending a steep grade.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION — IF
EQUIPPED
WARNING!
Skipping more than one gear while
downshifting, could cause you to lose control
of your vehicle. You could have a collision.
CAUTION!
If you skip more than one gear while down -
shifting or downshift at too high an engine
speed, you could damage the engine, trans -
mission, or clutch.
Do not downshift into FIRST gear when the
vehicle is moving faster than 15 mph
(24 km/h), as you could damage the
engine and/or clutch.
WARNING!
Never use the PARK position as a substi -
tute for the parking brake. Always apply the
parking brake fully when exiting the vehicle
to guard against vehicle movement and
possible injury or damage.
Your vehicle could move and injure you and
others if it is not in PARK. Check by trying to
move the transmission gear selector out of
PARK with the brake pedal released. Make
sure the transmission is in PARK before
exiting the vehicle.
The transmission may not engage PARK if
the vehicle is moving. Always bring the
vehicle to a complete stop before shifting to
PARK, and verify that the transmission gear
position indicator solidly indicates PARK (P)
without blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is
completely stopped, and the PARK position
is properly indicated, before exiting the
vehicle.
20_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 158
162STARTING AND OPERATING
The following indicators should be used to
ensure that you have properly engaged the
transmission into the PARK position:
When shifting into PARK, push the lock
button on the gear selector and firmly move
the selector all the way forward until it stops
and is fully seated.
Look at the transmission gear position
display and verify that it indicates the PARK
position (P), and is not blinking.
With the brake pedal released, verify that the
gear selector will not move out of PARK.
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has
come to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for
prolonged periods with the engine running.
Apply the parking brake and shift the
transmission into PARK if you must exit the
vehicle. 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.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle.
Allowing children to be in a vehicle unat
-
tended is dangerous for a number of
reasons. A child or others could be seriously
or fatally injured. Children should be
warned not to touch the parking brake,
brake pedal or the transmission gear
selector.
Do not leave the key fob in or near the
vehicle (or in a location accessible to chil -
dren), and do not leave the ignition in the
ACC or ON/RUN mode. A child could
operate power windows, other controls, or
move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
Before moving the transmission gear
selector out of PARK, you must start the
engine, and also press the brake pedal.
Otherwise, damage to the gear selector
could result.
DO NOT race the engine when shifting from
PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range,
as this can damage the drivetrain.
WARNING! (Continued)WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off
the ignition to coast down a hill. These are
unsafe practices that limit your response to
changing traffic or road conditions. 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 “Starting
And Operating” and “Towing A Disabled
Vehicle” in “In Case Of Emergency” for further
information.
20_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 162
166STARTING AND OPERATING
SPORT Mode will provide improved throttle
response and modified shifting for an enhanced
driving experience, as well the greatest amount
of steering feel. This mode may be activated
and deactivated by pushing the SPORT button
on the instrument panel switch bank.
NOTE:
If equipped with a manual transmission, the
1 - 4 Skip Shift Feature is disabled in SPORT
Mode.
For vehicles equipped with Drive Modes or a
“SUPER TRACK PAK” button, refer to “Drive
Mode Supplement” for further information.
FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY 5.7L AND 6.4L
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. When the
system is active, an indication will display within
the instrument cluster “Fuel Economy” main
menu screen. NOTE:
This system may take some time to return to full
functionality after a battery disconnect.
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 Electric Power Steering warning
icon is displayed and the “SERVICE
POWER STEERING” or the “POWER
STEERING ASSIST OFF – SERVICE
SYSTEM” message is displayed within the
instrument cluster display, this indicates the
vehicle needs to be taken to the dealer for
service. Refer to “Warning Lights And Messages” in
“Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.
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 an authorized
dealer for service.
If the Steering icon is displayed and the
“POWER STEERING SYSTEM OVER TEMP”
message is displayed on the instrument cluster
screen, they indicate that extreme steering
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.
SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED
When engaged, the Speed Control takes over
accelerator operations at speeds greater than
25 mph (40 km/h) or 20 mph (32 km/h), depending on engine size and axle ratio.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist
could pose a safety risk to yourself and
others. Service should be obtained as soon
as possible.
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188STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
REFUELING THE VEHICLE
The gas cap is located behind the fuel filler door
on the left side of the vehicle. Use a finger to
pull open the door. If the gas cap is lost or
damaged, be sure the replacement cap is for
use with this vehicle.
Fuel Filler Cap
NOTE:
When removing the fuel filler cap, lay the cap
tether in the hook, located on the fuel filler door. NOTE:
When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the
fuel tank is full.
Tighten the gas cap until you hear a “clicking”
sound. This is an indication that the gas cap
is tightened properly. The MIL in the instru
-
ment cluster may turn on if the gas cap is not
secured properly. Make sure that the gas cap
is tightened each time the vehicle is refueled.
LOOSE FUEL FILLER CAP MESSAGE
If the vehicle diagnostic system determines that
the fuel filler cap is loose, improperly installed,
or damaged, a ”gASCAP” message will display in
the odometer or a “Check Gascap” message will
display in the instrument cluster. If this occurs,
tighten the fuel filler cap properly and press the
Trip Odometer button to turn off the message. If
the problem continues, the message will appear
the next time the vehicle is started.
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or
near the vehicle when the fuel door is open
or the tank is being filled.
Never add fuel when the engine is running.
This is in violation of most state and federal
fire regulations and may cause the
“Malfunction Indicator Light” to turn on.
A fire may result if fuel is pumped into a
portable container that is inside of a
vehicle. You could be burned. Always place
fuel containers on the ground while filling.
CAUTION!
Damage to the fuel system or emissions
control system could result from using an
improper fuel tank filler tube cap.
A poorly fitting fuel filler cap could let impu -
rities into the fuel system.
A poorly fitting fuel filler cap may cause the
“Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)” to
turn on.
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not
“top off” the fuel tank after filling. When the
fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the fuel
tank is full.
CAUTION! (Continued)
20_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 188
STARTING AND OPERATING189
A loose, improperly installed, or damaged fuel
filler cap may also turn on the MIL.
VEHICLE LOADING
The load carrying capacity of your vehicle is
shown on the “Vehicle Certification Label”. This
information should be used for passenger and
luggage loading as indicated.
Do not exceed the specified Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR).
VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL
Your vehicle has a Vehicle Certification Label
affixed to the drivers side B-pillar or the rear of
the driver’s door.
The label contains the following information:
Name of manufacturer
Month and year of manufacture
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) front
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) rear
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Type of vehicle
Month, Day, and Hour of manufacture (MDH) The bar code allows a computer scanner to read
the VIN.
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING
(GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your
vehicle. This includes driver, passengers, and
cargo. The total load must be limited so that you
do not exceed the GVWR.
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.
OVERLOADING
The load carrying components (axle, springs,
tires, wheels, etc.) of your vehicle will provide
satisfactory service as long as you do not
exceed the GVWR and the front and rear GAWR.
The best way to figure out the total weight of
your vehicle is to weigh it when it is fully loaded
and ready for operation. Weigh it on a
commercial scale to ensure that it is not over
the GVWR.
Figure out the weight on the front and rear of
the vehicle separately. It is important that you
distribute the load evenly over the front and rear
axles.
Overloading can cause potential safety hazards
and shorten useful service life. Heavier axles or
suspension components do not necessarily
increase the vehicle's GVWR.
WARNING!
Because the front wheels steer the vehicle, it
is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous
driving condition can result if either rating is
exceeded. You could lose control of the
vehicle and have a collision.
5
20_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 189
196STARTING AND OPERATING
Seven-Pin Connector
TOWING TIPS
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning,
stopping, and backing up the trailer in an area
located away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped
Select the DRIVE range when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy to
avoid frequent shifting when towing. However, if
frequent shifting does occur while in DRIVE, you
can use the AutoStick shift control to manually
select a lower gear.
NOTE:
Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
This action will also provide better engine
braking.
Speed Control — If Equipped
Do not use on 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.
AutoStick
When using the AutoStick shift control, select
the highest gear that allows for adequate
performance and avoids frequent down -
shifts. For example, choose “5” if the desired
speed can be maintained. Choose “4” or “3”
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
extended driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and
road conditions allow.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
City Driving
In city traffic — while stopped, place the trans -
mission in NEUTRAL, but do not increase
engine idle speed.
Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Temporarily turn off air conditioning.
1 — Battery
2 — Backup Lamps
3 — Right Stop/Turn
4 — Electric Brakes
5 — Ground
6 — Left Stop/Turn
7 — Running Lamps
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212IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Mini-FuseDescription
F02 60 Amp Yellow –Front PDC Feed #1
F03 ––Fuse – Spare
F04 60 Amp Yellow –Front PDC Feed #2
F05 30 Amp Pink
20 Amp Blue – Police –
Sunroof/Dome Lamp – Police
F06 40 Amp Green –Exterior Lighting #1
F07 40 Amp Green –Exterior Lighting #2
F08 30 Amp Pink –Interior Lighting
F09 40 Amp Green –Power Locks
F10 30 Amp Pink –Driver Door Control Module
F11 30 Amp Pink –Passenger Door Control Module
F12 –20 Amp YellowDual USB Center Console Rear/
Cigar Lighter/ IP APO – If Equipped
F15 40 Amp Green –HVAC Blower
F16 20 Amp Blue –Left Spot Lamp – Police
F17 20 Amp Blue –Right Spot Lamp – Police
F18 30 Amp Pink –VISM MOD (Police)
F19 ––Fuse – Spare
F20 ––Fuse – Spare
F21 30 Amp Pink –Fuel Pump (Non 6.2L ADR)
F22 –5 Amp Tan Cyber Gateway Mod
20_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 212
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY213
F23 –10 Amp RedFuel Door – If Equipped/Diagnostic
Port
F24 –10 Amp RedIntegrated Center Stack
F25 –10 Amp Red Tire Pressure Monitor
F26 –15 Amp Blue Transmission Module
(300/Charger Non- Police)
F27 –25 Amp Clear Amplifier – If Equipped
F31 –25 Amp Breaker Power Seats – If Equipped
F32 –15 Amp Blue HVAC Module/Cluster
F33 –15 Amp BlueIgnition Switch/RF Hub Module/
Steering Column Lock (300) – If Equipped/ Remote Start – If Equipped
F34 –10 Amp RedSteering Column Module/Clock
(300)
F35 –5 Amp Tan Battery Sensor
F36 –15 Amp BlueActive Exhaust Valve – If Equipped
F37 –20 Amp Yellow Radio
F38 –20 Amp Yellow Media Hub/ Console APO
F40 30 Amp Pink –Fuel Pump #1 (6.2L ADR)
F41 30 Amp Pink –Fuel Pump #2 (6.2L ADR)
F42 30 Amp Pink –Rear Defrost
CavityCartridge Fuse Mini-FuseDescription
6
20_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 213