
STARTING AND OPERATING119
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.
The power steering system is fully electric; it 
requires no power steering fluid.
If the condition persists, see an authorized 
dealer for service.
STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
The Stop/Start function is developed to reduce 
fuel consumption. The system will stop the engine 
automatically during a vehicle stop if the required 
conditions are met. Releasing the brake pedal, 
pressing the accelerator pedal or shifting out of 
DRIVE (D) will automatically re-start the engine.
This vehicle has been upgraded with a heavy duty 
starter, enhanced battery, and other upgraded 
engine parts to handle the additional engine starts.
AUTOSTOP MODE
The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every 
normal customer engine start. At that time, the 
system will go into STOP/START READY and if 
all other conditions are met, can go into a 
STOP/START AUTOSTOP ACTIVE. To Activate Auto STOP/START, The Following Must 
Occur:
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  
Úpage 97.
The vehicle must be completely stopped.
The gear selector must be in a forward gear and 
the brake pedal pressed.
The engine will shut down, the tachometer will 
move to the zero position and the Stop/Start 
telltale will illuminate indicating you are in 
Autostop. Customer settings will be maintained 
throughout the Auto Stop/Start process.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES 
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check 
many safety and comfort conditions for Stop/Start 
and ensure they are fulfilled. Detailed information 
about the operation of the Stop/Start system 
may be viewed in the instrument cluster display 
Stop/Start screen. In the following situations the 
engine will not stop:
If Stop/Start is manually disabled by the 
Stop/Start OFF button.
Driver’s seat belt is not buckled.
Driver’s door is not closed.
Battery temperature is too warm or cold.
Battery charge is low. During this time a 
message will display "Stop/Start Not Ready 
Battery Charging".
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.
HVAC set to MAX A/C.
Engine has not reached normal operating 
temperature.
The transmission is not in a forward gear.
Hood is open.
Brake pedal is not pressed with sufficient pres -
sure.
Accelerator pedal input.
Engine temperature too high.
5 mph (8 km/h) threshold not achieved from 
previous Autostop.
Steering angle beyond threshold.
It may be possible for the vehicle to be driven 
several times without the Stop/Start system going 
into a STOP/START READY state under more 
extreme conditions of the items listed above.
4
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 119   

120STARTING AND OPERATING  
TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN AUTO 
S
TOP/START
While in a forward gear, the engine will start when 
the brake pedal is released or the throttle pedal is 
pressed. The transmission will automatically 
re-engage upon engine restart.
Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start 
Automatically While In Auto Stop/Start:  
The transmission selector is moved out of 
DRIVE.
To maintain cabin temperature comfort.
HVAC is set to full defrost mode.
HVAC system temperature or fan speed is 
manually adjusted.
Battery voltage drops too low. During this time a 
message will display "Stop/Start Not Ready 
Battery Charging".
Stop/Start OFF switch is pushed.
A Stop/Start system error occurs.
TO MANUALLY TURN OFF THE 
S
TOP/START SYSTEM
Stop/Start OFF Switch
Push the Stop/Start OFF switch (located on the 
switch bank). The light on the switch will illuminate. 
The “STOP/START OFF” message will appear in the 
instrument cluster display and the autostop mode 
will be disabled  
Úpage 97.
NOTE:The Stop/Start system will reset itself back to the 
ON mode every time the ignition is turned OFF and 
back ON.
TO MANUALLY TURN ON THE 
S
TOP/START SYSTEM
After turning off the Stop/Start system, push the 
Stop/Start OFF switch again (located on the switch 
bank). The light on the switch will turn off.
SYSTEM MALFUNCTION
If there is a malfunction in the Stop/Start system, 
the system will not shut down the engine. A 
“SERVICE STOP/START SYSTEM” message will 
appear in the instrument cluster display and the 
Stop/Start telltale will remain yellow  
Úpage 89.
If the “SERVICE STOP/START SYSTEM” message 
appears in the instrument cluster display, have the 
system checked by an authorized dealer.
CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with the Cruise 
Control system for cruising at a constant preset 
speed.
CRUISE CONTROL
When engaged, the Cruise Control takes over 
accelerator operations at speeds greater than 
25 mph (40 km/h).
The Cruise Control buttons are located on the right 
side of the steering wheel.
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 120   

STARTING AND OPERATING129
REFUELING THE VEHICLE
There is no fuel filler cap. Two flapper doors inside 
the pipe seal the system.
1. Put the vehicle in PARK and switch the 
ignition OFF.
2. Push the center-rear edge of the fuel filler door  (3 o'clock position) and release to open.
 Fuel Filler Door
3. Insert the fuel nozzle fully into the filler pipe;  the nozzle opens and holds both flapper doors 
while refueling.
4. When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the  fuel tank is full.
5. Keep the nozzle in the filler for five seconds  after the nozzle clicks to allow fuel to drain 
from the nozzle.
6. Remove the fuel filler nozzle.
7. To close the fuel filler door, push the  center-rear edge (3 o’clock position) of the fuel 
filler door and then release. The fuel filler door 
will latch closed.
NOTE:In certain cold conditions, ice may prevent the fuel 
filler door from opening. If this occurs, lightly push 
on the fuel filler door around the perimeter to 
break the ice build-up.
VEHICLE LOADING   
CERTIFICATION LABEL
As required by National Highway Traffic Safety 
Administration regulations, your vehicle has a 
certification label affixed to the driver's side door or 
pillar.
This label contains the month and year of 
manufacture, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 
(GVWR), front and rear Gross Axle Weight Rating 
(GAWR), and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 
A Month-Day-Hour (MDH) number is included on 
this label and indicates the Month, Day and Hour of 
manufacture. The bar code that appears on the 
bottom of the label is your VIN.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) 
The GVWR is the total permissible weight of your 
vehicle including driver, passengers, vehicle, 
options and cargo. The label also specifies 
maximum capacities of front and rear GAWR. Total 
load must be limited so GVWR and front and rear 
GAWR are not exceeded.
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 Malfunc -
tion 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!
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not “top 
off” the fuel tank after filling.
4
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 129   

STARTING AND OPERATING131
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) 
GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle. 
This includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongue 
weight. The total load must be limited so that you 
do not exceed the GVWR  
Úpage 129.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of 
all cargo, consumables and equipment 
(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  
Úpage 129.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The TW 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 multiplied 
by the maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
The TSC can be a mechanical telescoping link that 
can be installed between the hitch receiver and the 
trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable 
friction associated with the telescoping motion to 
dampen any unwanted trailer swaying motions 
while traveling.
The electronic TSC (if equipped) recognizes a 
swaying trailer and automatically applies individual 
wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power to 
attempt 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 connecting point of the vehicle. 
These kinds of hitches are commonly used to tow 
small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A Weight-Distributing Hitch works by applying 
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are 
typically used for heavier loads to distribute trailer 
tongue weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and 
the trailer axle(s). When used in accordance with 
manufacturer’s directions, it provides for a more 
level ride, offering more consistent steering and 
brake control 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. TSC and a Weight Distributing (load 
equalizing) Hitch are recommended for heavier TW 
and may be required depending on vehicle and 
trailer configuration/loading to comply with GAWR 
requirements.
WARNING!
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.
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight Distributing 
Hitch system may reduce handling, 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 manufac-
turer or a reputable Recreational Vehicle 
dealer for additional information.
4
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 131   

132STARTING AND OPERATING  
TRAILER HITCH CLASSIFICATION
The following chart provides the industry standard for the maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can tow and should be used to assist you in selecting 
the correct trailer hitch for your intended towing condition.
TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)   
The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight ratings towable for your given drivetrain.
NOTE:The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and should never exceed the weight referenced on the 
Tire and Loading Information placard.
Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions
Class Max. Trailer Hitch Industry Standards
Class I - Light Duty 2,000 lb (907 kg)
Class II - Medium Duty 3,500 lb (1,587 kg)
Class III - Heavy Duty 6,000 lb (2,721 kg)
Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty 10,000 lb (4,535 kg)
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given drivetrain.
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.
Engine/Transmission Trailer Tow 
Package GCWR
Frontal Area Maximum GTW Maximum Trailer TW
3.6L/Automatic Yes
8,600 lb (3,900 kg) 40 sq ft (3.72 sq m) 3,600 lb (1,632 kg) 360 lb (163 kg)
No 6,500 lb (2,948 kg) 40 sq ft (3.72 sq m) 1500 lb (680 kg) 149 lb (67 kg)
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 132   

134STARTING AND OPERATING  
(Continued)
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT 
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight 
stamped on your fascia/bumper or trailer hitch.
Weight Distribution
Consider the following items when computing the 
weight on the rear axle of the vehicle:
The tongue weight of the trailer.
The weight of any other type of cargo or equip -
ment put in or on your vehicle.
The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:Remember that everything put into or on the trailer 
adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional 
factory-installed options or dealer-installed options 
must be considered as part of the total load on 
your vehicle  
Úpage 306.
TOWING REQUIREMENTS 
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle 
drivetrain components, the following guidelines 
are recommended. Perform the maintenance listed in the “Scheduled 
Servicing”  
Úpage 271 When towing a trailer, 
never exceed the GAWR or GCWR ratings.
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 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.
WARNING!
Make certain that the load is secured in the 
trailer and will not shift during travel. When 
trailering cargo that is not fully secured, 
dynamic load shifts can occur that may be 
difficult for the driver to control. You could lose 
control of your vehicle and have a collision.
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not 
overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading 
can cause a loss of control, poor performance 
or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transmis -
sion, steering, suspension, chassis structure 
or tires.
Safety chains must always be used between 
your vehicle and trailer. Always connect the 
chains to the hook retainers of the vehicle 
hitch. Cross the chains under the trailer 
tongue and allow enough slack for turning 
corners.
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 134   

STARTING AND OPERATING137
Seven-Pin Connector
TOWING TIPS 
Before towing, practice turning, stopping, and 
backing up the trailer in an area located away from 
heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission
Select the DRIVE range when towing. The 
transmission controls include a drive strategy to 
avoid frequent shifting when towing. For increased 
engine braking on steep downhill grades, select 
the LOW range.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
When using the Cruise Control, if you experience 
speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), 
disengage until you can get back to cruising 
speed.
Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with light 
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
1 — Battery
2 — Backup Lamps
3 — Right Stop/Turn
4 — Electric Brakes
5 — Ground
6 — Left Stop/Turn
7 — Running Lamps
4
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 137   

140STARTING AND OPERATING  
(Continued)
DRIVING THROUGH WATER 
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to 
ensure safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.
Flowing/Rising Water
Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through 
shallow standing water, consider the following 
Warnings and Cautions before doing so.
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where 
water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm 
run-off). Flowing water can wear away the road 
or path's surface and cause your vehicle to sink 
into deeper water. Furthermore, flowing and/or 
rising water can carry your vehicle away swiftly. 
Failure to follow this warning may result in 
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your 
passengers, and others around you.
WARNING!
Driving through standing water limits your 
vehicle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed 
5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through 
standing water.
Driving through standing water limits your 
vehicle’s braking capabilities, which increases 
stopping distances. Therefore, after driving 
through standing water, drive slowly and 
lightly press on the brake pedal several times 
to dry the brakes.
Failure to follow these warnings may result in 
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your 
passengers, and others around you.
CAUTION!
Always check the depth of the standing water 
before driving through it. Never drive through 
standing water that is deeper than the bottom 
of the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.
Determine the condition of the road or the 
path that is under water and if there are any 
obstacles in the way before driving through 
the standing water.
Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through standing water. This will minimize 
wave effects.
Driving through standing water may cause 
damage to your vehicle’s drivetrain compo -
nents. Always inspect your vehicle’s fluids 
(i.e., engine oil, transmission, axle, etc.) for 
signs of contamination (i.e., fluid that is milky 
or foamy in appearance) after driving through 
standing water. Do not continue to operate 
the vehicle if any fluid appears contaminated, 
as this may result in further damage. Such 
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle 
Limited Warranty.
Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can 
cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause 
serious internal damage to the engine. Such 
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle 
Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
21_RUV_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 140