• This light only shows that the parking brake
is applied. It does not show the degree of
brake application.
When parking on a hill, it is important to turn
the front wheels toward the curb on a down-
hill grade and away from the curb on an uphill
grade. For vehicles equipped with an auto-
matic transmission, apply the parking brake
before placing the gear selector in PARK,
otherwise the load on the transmission lock-
ing mechanism may make it difficult to move
the gear selector out of PARK. The parking
brake should always be applied whenever the
driver is not in the vehicle.
WARNING!
• Never use the PARK position on an au-
tomatic transmission as a substitute for
the parking brake. Always apply the
parking brake fully when parked to guard
WARNING!
against vehicle movement and possible
injury or damage.
• When exiting the vehicle, always remove
the key fob from the ignition and lock
your vehicle.
• Never leave children alone in a vehicle,
or with access to an unlocked vehicle.
Allowing children to be in a vehicle un-
attended is dangerous for a number of
reasons. A child or others could be seri-
ously or fatally injured. Children should
be warned not to touch the parking
brake, brake pedal or the gear selector.
• Do not leave the key fob in or near the
vehicle, or in a location accessible to
children. A child could operate power
windows, other controls, or move the
vehicle.
• Be sure the parking brake is fully disen-
gaged before driving; failure to do so can
lead to brake failure and a collision.
WARNING!
• Always fully apply the parking brake
when leaving your vehicle or it may roll
and cause damage or injury. Also, be
certain to leave an automatic transmis-
sion in PARK, a manual transmission in
REVERSE or first gear. Failure to do so
may cause the vehicle to roll and cause
damage or injury.
CAUTION!
If the “Brake Warning Light” remains on
with the parking brake released, a brake
system malfunction is indicated. Have the
brake system serviced by an authorized
dealer immediately.
STARTING AND OPERATING
122
MANUAL TRANSMISSION —
IF EQUIPPED
WARNING!
You or others could be injured if you leave
the vehicle unattended without having the
parking brake fully applied. The parking
brake should always be applied when the
driver is not in the vehicle, especially on an
incline.
CAUTION!
Never drive with your foot resting on the
clutch pedal, or attempt to hold the ve-
hicle on a hill with the clutch pedal par-
CAUTION!
tially engaged, as this will cause abnormal
wear on the clutch.
NOTE:
During cold weather, you may experience
increased effort in shifting until the transmis-
sion fluid warms up. This is normal.
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.
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.
Shift Pattern
123
4H Position
This range locks the front and rear driveshafts
together, forcing the front and rear wheels to
rotate at the same speed. This range (4H)
provides additional traction for loose, slip-
pery road surfaces and should not be used on
dry pavement.
The “4WD Indicator Light” (located in the
instrument cluster) will illuminate when the
transfer case is shifted into the 4H position.
N (Neutral) Position
This range disengages the front and rear
driveshafts from the powertrain. It is to be
used for flat towing behind another vehicle.
Refer to “Recreational Towing” in “Starting
And Operating” for further information.
WARNING!
You or others could be injured or killed if
you leave the vehicle unattended with the
transfer case in the NEUTRAL (N) position
without first fully engaging the parking
brake. The transfer case NEUTRAL (N)
position disengages both the front and rear
WARNING!
driveshafts from the powertrain, and will
allow the vehicle to roll, even if the auto-
matic transmission is in PARK (or manual
transmission is in gear). The parking brake
should always be applied when the driver
is not in the vehicle.
4L Position
This range locks the front and rear driveshafts
together, forcing the front and rear wheels to
rotate at the same speed. This range (4L)
provides additional traction and maximum
pulling power for loose, slippery road sur-
faces only. Do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h).
CAUTION!
Exceeding 25 mph (40 km/h) while the
transfer case is engaged in 4L may result
in an engine overspeed condition and en-
gine damage.
The “4WD Indicator Light” (located in the
instrument cluster) will illuminate when the
transfer case is shifted into the 4L position.NOTE:
When in 4L, the “ESC Off Indicator Light”
will display in the instrument cluster.
Shifting Procedures
2H to 4H or 4H to 2H
Shifting between 2H and 4H can be made
with the vehicle stopped or in motion. With
the vehicle in motion, the transfer case will
engage/disengage faster if you momentarily
release the accelerator pedal after complet-
ing the shift. Apply a constant force when
shifting the transfer case lever.
4H to 4L or 4L to 4H
With the vehicle rolling at 2 to 3 mph (3 to
5 km/h), shift an automatic transmission into
NEUTRAL (N), or press the clutch pedal on a
manual transmission. While the vehicle is
coasting at 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift the
transfer case lever firmly to the desired posi-
tion. Do not pause with the transfer case in N
(Neutral). Once the shift is completed, place
the automatic transmission into DRIVE or
release the clutch pedal on a manual trans-
mission.
131
SCHEDULED SERVICING
Scheduled Servicing — Gasoline Engine
The scheduled services listed in this manual
must be done at the times or mileages speci-
fied to protect your vehicle warranty and
ensure the best vehicle performance and re-
liability. More frequent maintenance may be
needed for vehicles in severe operating con-
ditions, such as dusty areas and very short
trip driving. Inspection and service should
also be done anytime a malfunction is sus-
pected.
The oil change indicator system will remind
you that it is time to take your vehicle in for
scheduled maintenance.
On non-instrument cluster display equipped
vehicles, “CHANgE OIL” will flash in the
instrument cluster odometer and a single
chime will sound, indicating that an oil
change is necessary.The oil change indicator message will illumi-
nate approximately 7,000 miles
(11,200 km) after the most recent oil change
was performed. Have your vehicle serviced as
soon as possible, within 500 miles (800 km).
However, an earlier oil change at 4,500 miles
(7,500 km) may be required if the vehicle is
operated under “Severe Duty Conditions”
later in this section.
NOTE:
• The oil change indicator message will not
monitor the time since the last oil change.
Change your vehicle's oil if it has been
6 months since your last oil change even if
the oil change indicator message is NOT
illuminated.
• Change your engine oil more often if you
drive your vehicle off-road for an extended
period of time.
• Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Your authorized dealer will reset the oil
change indicator message after completing
the scheduled oil change.Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip
• Check the engine oil level about five min-
utes after a fully warmed engine is shut off.
Checking the oil level while the vehicle is
on level ground will improve the accuracy of
the oil level reading. Add oil only when the
level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
• Check the windshield washer solvent and
add if required.
• Check tire pressure and look for unusual
wear or damage. Rotate tires at the first
sign of irregular wear, even if it occurs
before the oil indicator system turns on.
• Inspect the battery and clean and tighten
the terminals as required.
• Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir,
automatic transmission, brake master cyl-
inder and power steering and fill as needed.
• Check all lights and other electrical items
for correct operation.
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
170
WARNING!
doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a com-
petent mechanic.
• Failure to properly inspect and maintain
your vehicle could result in a component
malfunction and effect vehicle handling
and performance. This could cause an
accident.
Severe Duty Conditions
†† Change the engine oil and engine oil filter
at every 4500 miles (7,500 km) or 6 months
if using your vehicle under any of the follow-
ing severe duty conditions:
• Stop and go driving.
• Driving in dusty conditions.
• Short trips of less than 10 miles (16 km).
• Trailer towing.
• Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial
service).
• Off-road or desert operation.
Scheduled Servicing — Diesel Engine
At Each Stop for Fuel
• Check the engine oil level about five min-
utes after a fully warmed engine is shut off.
Checking the oil level while the vehicle is
on level ground will improve the accuracy of
the oil level reading. Add oil only when the
level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
• Check the windshield washer solvent, add
as required.
Once a Month
• Check tire pressure and look for unusual
wear or damage. Rotate tires at the first
sign of irregular wear, even if it occurs
before the oil indicator system turns on.
• Inspect the battery; clean and tighten the
terminals as required.
• Check the fluid levels of engine coolant/
antifreeze deaeration bottle, and brake
master cylinder, add as needed.
• Check all lights and all other electrical
items for correct operation.At Each Oil Change
• Change the engine oil filter.
• Inspect the exhaust system.
• Inspect brake hoses.
• Check the engine coolant/antifreeze level,
hoses, and clamps.
• Inspect engine accessory drive belts. Re-
place as necessary.
• Inspect for the presence of water in the fuel
filter/water separator unit.
Inspection and service should be performed
anytime a malfunction is observed or sus-
pected. Retain all receipts.
175
* The actual interval for changing engine oil
and replacing the engine oil filter depends on
the vehicle usage conditions and is signalled
by the warning light or message in the instru-
ment panel. In all cases, never exceed 1 year/
15,000 miles (24,000 km).
** DOT 4 brake fluid is time based only;
mileage intervals do not apply.
WARNING!
• You can be badly injured working on or
around a motor vehicle. Do only service
work for which you have the knowledge
and the right equipment. If you have any
doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a com-
petent mechanic.
• Failure to properly inspect and maintain
your vehicle could result in a component
malfunction and effect vehicle handling
and performance. This could cause an
accident.
179
by gently spraying water from a garden hose
vertically down the face of the A/C condenser
(if equipped) or the back of the radiator core.
Check the engine cooling system hoses for
brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, and
tightness of the connection at the coolant
recovery bottle and radiator. Inspect the en-
tire system for leaks. DO NOT REMOVE THE
COOLANT PRESSURE CAP WHEN THE
COOLING SYSTEM IS HOT.
Adding Washer Fluid
The fluid reservoir for the windshield washers
and the rear window washer (if equipped) is
shared. The fluid reservoir is located in the
engine compartment. Be sure to check the
fluid level at regular intervals. Fill the reservoir
with windshield washer solvent only (not radia-
tor antifreeze). When refilling the washer fluid
reservoir, take some washer fluid and apply it to
a cloth or towel and wipe clean the wiper
blades; this will help blade performance.
To prevent freeze-up of your windshield
washer system in cold weather, select a solu-
tion or mixture that meets or exceeds the
temperature range of your climate. This rat-
ing information can be found on most washer
fluid containers.
WARNING!
Commercial windshield washer solvents
are flammable. They could ignite and burn
you. Care must be exercised when filling or
working around the washer solution.
Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance,
all brake system components should be in-
spected periodically. Refer to the “Mainte-
nance Plan” in this section for the proper
maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure
and possibly a collision. Driving with your
foot resting or riding on the brake pedal
WARNING!
can result in abnormally high brake tem-
peratures, excessive lining wear, and pos-
sible brake damage. You would not have
your full braking capacity in an emergency.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should
be checked whenever the vehicle is serviced,
or immediately if the brake system warning
light is on. If necessary, add fluid to bring
level within the designated marks on the side
of the reservoir of the brake master cylinder.
Be sure to clean the top of the master cylin-
der area before removing cap. With disc
brakes, fluid level can be expected to fall as
the brake pads wear. Brake fluid level should
be checked when pads are replaced. If the
brake fluid is abnormally low, check the sys-
tem for leaks.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Techni-
cal Specifications” for further information.
183
5. Place the gear selector momentarily into
each gear position (allowing time for the
transmission to fully engage in each posi-
tion), ending with the transmission in
PARK.
6. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and
reinsert it until seated.
7. Remove the dipstick again and note the
fluid level on both sides. The fluid level
reading is only valid if there is a solid
coating of oil on both sides of the dipstick.
Note that the holes in the dipstick will be
full of fluid if the actual level is at or above
the hole. The fluid level should be be-
tween the HOT (upper) reference holes on
the dipstick at normal operating tempera-
ture. If the fluid level is low, add fluid
through the dipstick tube to bring it to the
proper level.Do not overfill.Use ONLY the
specified fluid (refer to "Fluids And Lubri-
cants" under “Technical Specifications”
for fluid specifications). After adding any
quantity of oil through the dipstick tube,
wait a minimum of two minutes for the oil
to fully drain into the transmission before
rechecking the fluid level.NOTE:
• The holes in the dipstick will be full of
fluid if the actual level is at or above the
hole.
• If it is necessary to check the transmis-
sion below the operating temperature,
the fluid level should be between the
two COLD (lower) holes on the dipstick
with the fluid at approximately 80°F
(27°C). If the fluid level is correctly
established at 80° F (27°C), it should
be between the HOT (upper) reference
holes when the transmission reaches
180° F (82°C). Remember it is best to
check the level at the normal operating
temperature.
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F
(10°C) it may not register on the dipstick.
Do not add fluid until the temperature is
elevated enough to produce an accurate
reading. Run the engine at idle, in PARK,
to warm the fluid.8. Reinstall the engine cover and snap it
down securely onto the four mounting
studs.
9. Check for leaks. Release the parking
brake.
NOTE:
To prevent dirt and water from entering the
transmission after checking or replenishing
fluid, make sure that the dipstick cap is
properly reseated. It is normal for the dipstick
cap to spring back slightly from its fully
seated position, as long as its seal remains
engaged in the dipstick tube.
Fluid Level Check — 2.8L Turbo Diesel
Engine
The fluid level is preset at the factory and
does not require adjustment under normal
operating conditions. Routine fluid level
checks are not required, therefore the trans-
mission filler tube is capped and no dipstick
is provided. An authorized dealer can check
your transmission fluid level using a special
service dipstick.
185