2021 RAM 1500 transmission

392IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
This section describes procedures for towing a
disabled vehicle using a commercial towing
service.
If the transmission and drivetrain are operable,
disabled vehicles may also be towed as
described on Úpage 230. NOTE:
Vehicles equipped with the Active-Level Four
Corner Air Suspension System must be placed
in Transport mode, before tying them down
(from the body) on a trailer or flatbed truck
Ú
page 165. If the vehicle cannot be placed in
Transport mode (for example, engine will not
run), tie-downs must be fastened to the axles
(not to the body). Failure to follow these instruc -
tions may cause fault codes to be set and/or
cause loss of proper tie-down tension.When “rocking” a stuck vehicle by shifting
between DRIVE and REVERSE, do not spin
the wheels faster than 15 mph (24 km/h), or drivetrain damage may result.
Revving the engine or spinning the wheels
too fast may lead to transmission over -
heating and failure. It can also damage the
tires. Do not spin the wheels above 30 mph
(48 km/h) while in gear (no transmission
shifting occurring).
CAUTION! (Continued)
Towing Condition Wheels OFF The
Ground 2WD Models
4WD Models
Flat Tow NONE If transmission is operable:

• Transmission in NEUTRAL
• 30 mph (48 km/h) max speed
• 30 miles (48 km) max distance Detailed instruction on
Ú page 230
• Automatic Transmission in PARK
• Transfer Case in NEUTRAL (N)
• Tow in forward direction
Wheel Lift Or Dolly Tow Front
NOT ALLOWED
Rear OK NOT ALLOWED
Flatbed ALL BEST METHOD BEST METHOD

21_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 392

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY393
(Continued)
Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to
prevent damage to your vehicle. Use only tow
bars and other equipment designed for this
purpose, following equipment FCA’s
instructions. Use of safety chains is mandatory.
Attach a tow bar or other towing device to main
structural members of the vehicle, not to
fascia/bumpers or associated brackets. State
and local laws regarding vehicles under tow
must be observed.
If you must use the accessories (wipers,
defrosters, etc.) while being towed, the ignition
must be in the ON/RUN mode, not the ACC
mode.
If the key fob is unavailable or the vehicle's
battery is discharged, find Instructions on
shifting the transmission out of PARK
Ú page 390.TWO-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
FCA recommends towing your vehicle with all
four wheels OFF the ground using a flatbed.
If flatbed equipment is not available, and the
transmission is operable, the vehicle may be
towed (with rear wheels on the ground) under
the following conditions:
The transmission must be in NEUTRAL (N).
Instructions on shifting the transmission to
NEUTRAL (N) when the engine is off
Ú page 390.
The towing speed must not exceed 30 mph
(48 km/h).
The towing distance must not exceed
30 miles (48 km).
If the transmission is not operable, or the
vehicle must be towed faster than 30 mph
(48 km/h) and farther than 30 miles (48 km), tow with the rear wheels OFF the ground.
Acceptable methods to tow the vehicle on a
flatbed are as follows:
The front wheels raised and the rear wheels
on a towing dolly
Using a suitable steering wheel stabilizer to
hold the front wheels in the straight position
with the rear wheels raised when and the
front wheels ON the ground.
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
FCA recommends towing with all wheels OFF
the ground. Acceptable methods are to tow the
vehicle on a flatbed or with one end of vehicle
raised and the opposite end on a towing dolly.
CAUTION!
Do not use sling type equipment when
towing. Vehicle damage may occur.
When securing the vehicle to a flat bed
truck, do not attach to front or rear suspen -
sion components. Damage to your vehicle
may result from improper towing.
CAUTION!
Towing this vehicle in violation of the above
requirements can cause severe transmission
damage. Damage from improper towing is not
covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
CAUTION!
Front or rear wheel lifts must not be used (if
the remaining wheels are on the ground).
Internal damage to the transmission or
transfer case will occur if a front or rear
wheel lift is used when towing.
7

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426SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Special Additives
FCA strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission. Automatic
Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired
by supplemental additives. Therefore, do not
add any fluid additives to the transmission.
Avoid using transmission sealers as they may
adversely affect seals.
Fluid Level Check
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 transmission has no
dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your
transmission fluid level using special service
tools. If you notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit an authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level
checked. Operating the vehicle with an
improper fluid level can cause severe
transmission damage.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not
required. However, change the fluid and filter if
the fluid becomes contaminated (with water,
etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for
any reason.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission
fluid to ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use only the
recommended transmission fluid
Úpage 478.
It is important to maintain the transmission fluid
at the correct level using the recommended
fluid. No chemical flushes should be used in any
transmission; only the approved lubricant
should be used.
REAR AXLE AND 4X4 FRONT DRIVING
A
XLE FLUID LEVEL
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks
are not required. When the vehicle is serviced
for other reasons the exterior surfaces of the
axle assembly should be inspected. If gear oil
leakage is suspected inspect the fluid level
Ú page 478. This inspection should be made
with the vehicle in a level position.
The fluid level should be even with the bottom
of the fill hole (within 1/4 in (6.4 mm) of edge of
hole) for the front axle and rear axle.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage
your transmission components. Such damage
is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An
authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may
cause deterioration in transmission shift
quality and/or torque converter shudder
Ú page 478.

21_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 426

478TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
CHASSIS FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS
Component Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Automatic TransmissionUse only Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid, or equivalent. Failure to use
the correct fluid may affect the function or performance of your transmission.
Transfer Case – 48-11 Active On-Demand 2–speed
Transfer Case (With 4WD AUTO) We recommend you use Mobil Fluid LT.
Transfer Case – 48-12 Part Time 2–Speed Transfer
Case (Without 4WD AUTO) We recommend you use Shell Spirax S2 ATF A389.
Front Axle We recommend you use Mopar GL-5 Synthetic Axle Lubricant SAE 75W-85.
Rear Axle (3.21/3.55) We recommend you use Mopar Synthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-90 (MS-A0160).
Limited-Slip Rear Axles require the addition of 5 oz. (148 ml) Mopar Limited Slip Additive
(MS-10111).
Rear Axle (3.92) We recommend you use Mopar Synthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-140 (MS-8985).
Limited-Slip Rear Axles require the addition of 5 oz. (148 ml) Mopar Limited Slip Additive
(MS-10111).
Max Tow Rear Axle (3.92) We recommend You Use Dana SAE 80W90 Axle Lubricant.
Brake Master Cylinder We recommend you use Mopar DOT 3 Brake Fluid, SAE J1709.

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483
INDEX
A
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (Cruise
Control)
................................................ 177, 179Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)............... 422Adding Fuel.......................................... 208, 210Additives, Fuel............................................... 469AdjustDown........................................................... 36Forward....................................................... 36Rearward..................................................... 36Up................................................................ 36Adjustable Pedals............................................ 43Advance Phone Connectivity......................... 279Air BagAir Bag Operation...................................... 344Air Bag Warning Light...................... 342, 345Enhanced Accident Response......... 353, 394Event Data Recorder (EDR)....................... 394Front Air Bag............................................. 345If Deployment Occurs................................ 352Knee Impact Bolsters................................ 349Maintaining Your Air Bag System.............. 354Maintenance............................................. 354Redundant Air Bag Warning Light.............343Transporting Pets...................................... 369Air Bag Light............................... 126, 342, 369
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner
Filter)............................................................ 411Air Conditioner Maintenance........................ 415Air Conditioner Refrigerant........................... 415Air Conditioner System................................. 415Air Conditioning................................................ 63Air Conditioning Filter..............................67, 415Air Conditioning System................................... 65Air Conditioning, Operating Tips....................... 66Air Filter........................................................ 411Air PressureTires......................................................... 450Air Suspension..................................... 165, 169AlarmSecurity Alarm....................................26, 127Alterations/ModificationsVehicle......................................................... 11Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)................. 422, 474Disposal................................................... 423Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)...................... 310Anti-Lock Warning Light................................ 132Assist, Hill Start............................................. 317Audio Settings............................................... 266Audio Systems (Radio).................................. 236Auto Down Power Windows............................. 78Automatic Door Locks...................................... 30
Automatic Headlights.......................................54Automatic High Beams.....................................53Automatic Tailgate Release.............................85Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)..............65Automatic Transmission....................... 156, 426Adding Fluid.............................................. 426Fluid And Filter Change............................. 426Fluid Change............................................. 426Fluid Level Check...................................... 426Fluid Type........................................ 426, 478Special Additives...................................... 426Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode... 159AutoPark....................................................... 141AUX Camera......................................... 204, 208Auxiliary Driving Systems.............................. 318Axle Fluid.............................................. 426, 478Axle Lubrication............................................ 426
B
Back-Up......................................................... 202Back-Up Camera........................................... 202Battery................................................. 128, 409Charging System Light.............................. 128Keyless Key Fob Replacement....................18Battery Saver Feature......................................57Belts, Seat.................................................... 369
11

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484
Blind Spot Monitoring
.................................... 318Bluetooth Connecting To A Particular Mobile PhoneOr Audio Device After Pairing
................275Body Builders Guide........................................ 11Body Mechanism Lubrication........................ 418B-Pillar Location............................................. 447Brake Assist System...................................... 311Brake Control System.................................... 311Brake Fluid.......................................... 425, 478Brake System...................................... 425, 467Fluid Check............................................... 425Master Cylinder......................................... 425Parking...................................................... 151Warning Light............................................ 126Brake/Transmission Interlock....................... 155Bulb Replacement......................................... 437Bulbs, Light.......................................... 371, 437
C
Camera.......................................................... 202Camera, AUX........................................ 204, 208Camera, Rear...................................... 202, 204Camper............................................................ 97Capacities, Fuel............................................. 474Caps, FillerOil (Engine)................................................ 404Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...................... 423Car Washes................................................... 462
Carbon Monoxide Warning................... 371, 372Cargo Light....................................................... 56CD................................................................. 268Cellular Phone.............................................. 309Center High Mounted Stop Light................... 442Center Seat Storage Compartment.................. 68Charge Air Cooler.......................................... 424Chart, Tire Sizing........................................... 444Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator
Light)............................................................. 138Checking Your Vehicle For Safety................. 369Checks, Safety.............................................. 369Child Restraint.............................................. 355Child RestraintsBooster Seats........................................... 358Child Seat Installation..................... 364, 365How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt.... 363Infant And Child Restraints....................... 357Locating The LATCH Anchorages.............. 362Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children.. 360Older Children And Child Restraints......... 357Seating Positions...................................... 359Clean Air Gasoline......................................... 469CleaningWheels..................................................... 456Climate Control................................................ 60Automatic.................................................... 60Manual........................................................ 63Cold Weather Operation............................... 146
Compact Spare Tire...................................... 455Connected Services...................................... 282Connected Services FAQ............................... 301Connected Services Features....................... 286Connected Services, Getting Started............ 284Connected Services, Introduction................. 282Contract, Service........................................... 480Controls........................................................ 259Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap)............ 423Cooling System............................................. 421Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)...................... 422Coolant Level................................... 421, 423Cooling Capacity....................................... 474Disposal Of Used Coolant......................... 423Drain, Flush, And Refill............................. 422Inspection................................................. 423Points To Remember................................ 424Pressure Cap............................................ 423Radiator Cap............................................. 423Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze)......................... 422, 474, 475Corrosion Protection..................................... 461Cruise ControlAccel/Decel.............................................. 178Cancel....................................................... 179Resume.................................................... 179Cruise Control (Speed Control)............. 177, 179Cruise Light................................................... 136Customer Assistance.................................... 479Cybersecurity................................................ 236

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490
Seats
................................................. 34, 35, 36Adjustment........................................... 34, 36Easy Entry................................................... 37Head Restraints.......................................... 40Memory....................................................... 32Power.......................................................... 36Rear Folding................................................ 34Reclining Rear............................................. 36Tilting.......................................................... 34Security System...................................... 26, 127Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze)...................475Send & Go........................................... 293, 302Sentry Key (Immobilizer).................................. 20Service Assistance......................................... 479Service Contract............................................ 480Service Manuals............................................ 482Settings, Audio.............................................. 266Shifting.......................................................... 154Automatic Transmission............................ 156Transfer Case, Shifting Into Transfer Case Neutral (N)................................... 232Transfer Case, Shifting Out Of TransferCase Neutral (N)................................... 233Shoulder Belts............................................... 336Side Steps, Power............................................ 28Signals, Turn..................................55, 136, 371Sirius Satellite Radio..................................... 261Favorites................................................... 264Replay....................................................... 262
SiriusXM Satellite RadioBrowse in SXM......................................... 264Favorites................................................... 264Replay...................................................... 262Sliding Rear Window, Power............................ 79Smart Watch................................................. 300Snow Chains (Tire Chains)............................ 458Snow Plow.................................................... 227Snow Tires.................................................... 454SOS Call............................................... 286, 301Spare Tires.......................................... 455, 456Spark Plugs................................................... 475Speed Control (Cruise Control)..................... 179Starting....................................... 140, 143, 144Automatic Transmission........................... 141Button......................................................... 21Cold Weather............................................ 146Engine Fails To Start................................. 144Starting And Operating......................... 143, 144Starting Procedures............................. 143, 144Starting Procedures (Gas Engines)............... 140SteeringPower....................................................... 174Tilt Column.................................................. 31Wheel, Heated...................................... 31, 32Wheel, Tilt.................................................... 31Steering Wheel Audio Controls..................... 259Steering Wheel Mounted Sound System...... 259
Steps, Power Side............................................28Stolen Vehicle Assistance.................... 297, 303Storage............................................................68Storage Compartment, Center Seat.................68Storage, Vehicle..................................... 66, 461Store Radio Presets...................................... 265Storing Your Vehicle...................................... 461Sun Roof..................................... 80, 81, 82, 84Sunglasses Storage.........................................70Sunshade Operation........................................81SuspensionAir.................................................... 165, 169Sway Control, Trailer..................................... 318Synthetic Engine Oil...................................... 410
T
Tailgate Removal.............................................86Tailgate, Electronic Lowering...........................85Telescoping Steering Column...........................31Temperature Control, Automatic (ATC).............65TiltDown...........................................................37Up................................................................37Tilt Steering Column.........................................31Tip Start........................................................ 143Tire And Loading Information Placard........... 447Tire Markings................................................ 443Tire Safety Information.................................. 443

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491
Tires
................................... 371, 449, 455, 460Aging (Life Of Tires)................................... 452Air Pressure............................................... 449Chains....................................................... 458Compact Spare......................................... 455Dual........................................................... 467General Information........................ 449, 455High Speed................................................ 451Inflation Pressure...................................... 450Life Of Tires............................................... 452Load Capacity............................................ 447Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)........................................ 131, 327Quality Grading.......................................... 460Radial........................................................ 451Replacement............................................. 453Rotation.................................................... 460Safety.............................................. 443, 449Sizes.......................................................... 444Snow Tires................................................. 454Spare Tires...................................... 455, 456Spinning.................................................... 452Trailer Towing............................................ 222Tread Wear Indicators............................... 452Wheel Nut Torque..................................... 467To Open Hood.................................................. 84Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight....................... 219Tonneau Cover....................................... 97, 462Tonneau Cover Cleaning................................ 462
Towing................................................. 214, 392Disabled Vehicle....................................... 392Guide........................................................ 218Recreational............................................. 230Weight...................................................... 218Towing Behind A Motorhome........................ 230Traction......................................................... 234Traction Control............................................ 318Trailer Reverse Steering Control................... 219Trailer Sway Control (TSC)............................. 318Trailer Towing............................................... 214Hitches..................................................... 218Minimum Requirements........................... 221Mirrors......................................................... 48Tips........................................................... 227Trailer And Tongue Weight........................ 219Wiring....................................................... 225Trailer Towing Guide..................................... 218Trailer Weight................................................ 218Transfer Case............................................... 427Electronically Shifted....................... 161, 163Fluid......................................................... 478Transmission................................................ 156Automatic........................................ 156, 426Fluid......................................................... 478Maintenance............................................ 426Shifting..................................................... 154Transporting Pets.......................................... 369Tread Wear Indicators.................................. 452Turn Signals......................... 55, 136, 439, 441
U
UconnectPhone Call Features
................................. 276Things You Should Know About Your Uconnect Phone................................... 279Uconnect App................................................ 284Uconnect Phone................................... 272, 273Answer Or Ignore An Incoming Call — Call Currently In Progress..................... 278Answer Or Ignore An Incoming Call — No Call Currently In Progress................ 277Bluetooth Communication Link................ 281Call Continuation...................................... 279Call Controls............................................. 277Call Termination....................................... 279Cancel Command..................................... 273Connecting To A Particular Mobile Phone Or Audio Device After Pairing................ 275Help Command......................................... 273Join Calls.................................................. 279Making A Phone Or Audio Device AFavorite................................................ 275Making A Second Call While Current Call Is In Progress........................................ 278Managing Your Favorites.......................... 276Natural Speech......................................... 272Operation.................................................. 272Overview................................................... 27111

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