
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL53
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) 
Warning Light 
The warning light switches on and a 
message is displayed to indicate that 
the tire pressure is lower than the 
recommended value and/or that slow 
pressure loss is occurring. In these cases, 
optimal tire duration and fuel consumption may 
not be guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition 
mentioned above, the display will show the 
indications corresponding to each tire.
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), 
should be checked monthly when cold and 
inflated to the inflation pressure recommended 
by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle 
placard or tire inflation pressure label. If your 
vehicle has tires of a different size than the size  indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation 
pressure label, you should determine the 
proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has 
been equipped with a TPMS that illuminates a 
low tire pressure telltale when one or more of 
your tires is significantly underinflated. 
Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale 
illuminates, you should stop and check your 
tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to 
the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly 
underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat 
and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also 
reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and 
may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping 
ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for 
proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s 
responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, 
even if under-inflation has not reached the level 
to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire 
pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a 
TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when 
the system is not operating properly. The TPMS 
malfunction indicator is combined with the low 
tire pressure telltale. When the system detects 
a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain 
continuously illuminated. This sequence will 
continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as 
long as the malfunction exists. When the 
malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system 
may not be able to detect or signal low tire 
pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may 
occur for a variety of reasons, including the 
installation of replacement or alternate tires or 
wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS 
from functioning properly. Always check the 
TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or 
more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure 
that the replacement or alternate tires and 
wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function 
properly.
CAUTION!
Do not continue driving with one or more flat 
tires as handling may be compromised. Stop 
the vehicle, avoiding sharp braking and 
steering. If a tire puncture occurs, repair 
immediately using the dedicated tire repair 
kit and contact an authorized dealer as soon 
as possible.
3
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 53   

54GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL  
Vehicle Security Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when 
the vehicle security system has 
detected an attempt to break into the 
vehicle.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Warning 
Light (MIL)  
The Engine Check/Malfunction 
Indicator Light (MIL) is a part of an 
Onboard Diagnostic System called 
OBD II that monitors engine and 
automatic transmission control systems. This 
warning light will illuminate when the ignition is in 
the ON/RUN position before engine start. After 
placing the ignition to the ON/RUN position, if 
there is a problem with the Sentry Key System, 
the Vehicle Security Light will turn on. This 
condition will result in the engine being shut off 
after two seconds. If the bulb does not come on 
when turning the ignition switch from OFF to ON/
RUN, have the condition checked promptly.
NOTE:
This warning light will illuminate when the 
vehicle security system has detected an 
attempt to break into the vehicle.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing 
gas cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the 
light after engine start. The vehicle should be 
serviced if the light stays on through several 
typical driving styles. In most situations, the 
vehicle will drive normally and will not require 
towing. When the engine is running, the MIL may flash 
to alert serious conditions that could lead to 
immediate loss of power or severe catalytic 
converter damage. The vehicle should be 
serviced by an authorized dealer as soon as 
possible if this occurs.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original 
equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures 
and warning have been established for the 
tire size equipped on your vehicle. 
Undesirable system operation or sensor 
damage may result when using replacement 
equipment that is not of the same size, type, 
and/or style. Aftermarket wheels can cause 
sensor damage. Using aftermarket tire 
sealants may cause the Tire Pressure 
Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor to become 
inoperable. After using an aftermarket tire 
sealant it is recommended that you take your 
vehicle to an authorized dealer to have your 
sensor function checked.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as refer
-
enced above, can reach higher temperatures 
than in normal operating conditions. This can 
cause a fire if you drive slowly or park over 
flammable substances such as dry plants, 
wood, cardboard, etc. This could result in 
death or serious injury to the driver, occu -
pants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction 
Indicator Light (MIL) on could cause damage 
to the vehicle control system. It also could 
affect fuel economy and driveability. If the 
MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter 
damage and power loss will soon occur. 
Immediate service is required.
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 54   

76STARTING AND OPERATING  
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.
Tire Size
The tire size on the Vehicle Certification Label 
represents the actual tire size on your vehicle. 
Replacement tires must be equal to the load 
capacity of this tire size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire 
size listed.
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your 
vehicle for all loading conditions up to full GAWR.
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the 
total weight of the vehicle with all fluids, 
including vehicle fuel, at full capacity 
conditions, and with no occupants or cargo 
loaded into the vehicle. The front and rear curb 
weight values are determined by weighing your 
vehicle on a commercial scale before any 
occupants or cargo are added.
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.
Loading   
To load your vehicle properly, first figure out its 
empty weight, axle-by-axle and side-by-side. 
Store heavier items down low and be sure you 
distribute their weight as evenly as possible. 
Stow all loose items securely before driving. If 
weighing the loaded vehicle shows that you 
have exceeded either GAWR, but the total load 
is within the specified GVWR, you must 
redistribute the weight. Improper weight 
distribution can have an adverse effect on the 
way your vehicle steers and handles and the 
way the brakes operate.
NOTE:
Refer to the “Vehicle Certification Label” affixed 
to the B-Pillar or the rear of the driver's door for 
your vehicle's GVWR and GAWRs.
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.
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 76   

STARTING AND OPERATING77
TRAILER TOWING  
In this section you will find safety tips and 
information on limits to the type of towing you 
can reasonably do with your vehicle. Before 
towing a trailer, carefully review this information 
to tow your load as efficiently and safely as 
possible.
To maintain the New Vehicle Limited Warranty 
coverage, follow the requirements and 
recommendations in this manual concerning 
vehicles used for trailer towing.
Common Towing Definitions
The following trailer towing related definitions 
will assist you in understanding the following 
information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) 
The 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 75.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the total allowable weight of your 
vehicle and trailer when weighed in 
combination.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The 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 75.
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.
If equipped, the electronic TSC 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.
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.
4
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 77   

80STARTING AND OPERATING  
(Continued)
Towing Requirements — Tires
Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a 
compact spare tire.
Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when towing while using a full size spare tire.
Proper tire inflation pressures are essential 
to the safe and satisfactory operation of your 
vehicle.
Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation 
pressures before trailer usage.
Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire 
damage before towing a trailer.
When replacing tires with a higher load 
carrying capacity they will not increase the 
vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.
For further information  Ú page 234.
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 colli -
sion.
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do 
not overload your vehicle or trailer. Over -
loading can cause a loss of control, poor 
performance or damage to brakes, axle, 
engine, transmission, 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.
Vehicles with trailers should not be parked 
on a grade. When parking, apply the 
parking brake on the tow vehicle. Put the 
tow vehicle transmission in PARK. For 
four-wheel drive vehicles, make sure the 
transfer case is not in NEUTRAL. Always, 
block or "chock" the trailer wheels.
GCWR must not be exceeded.
Total weight must be distributed between 
the tow vehicle and the trailer such that the 
following four ratings are not exceeded :
GVWR
GTW
GAWR
Tongue weight rating for the trailer 
hitch utilized.
WARNING! (Continued)
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 80   

SAFETY147
(Continued)
ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light 
And ESC OFF Indicator Light 
The ESC Activation/Malfunction 
Indicator Light in the instrument 
cluster will come on when the ignition 
switch is turned to the MAR (ON/RUN) 
position for four seconds. If the ESC Activation/
Malfunction Indicator Light comes on 
continuously with the engine running, a 
malfunction has been detected in the ESC 
system. If this light remains on after several 
ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been driven 
several miles (km) at speeds greater than 
30 mph (48 km/h), see an authorized dealer as 
soon as possible to have the problem 
diagnosed and corrected.
WARNING!
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot 
prevent the natural laws of physics from 
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase 
the traction afforded by prevailing road 
conditions. ESC cannot prevent accidents, 
including those resulting from excessive 
speed in turns, driving on very slippery 
surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also cannot 
prevent accidents resulting from loss of 
vehicle control due to inappropriate driver 
input for the conditions. Only a safe, atten -
tive, and skillful driver can prevent acci -
dents. The capabilities of an ESC equipped 
vehicle must never be exploited in a reck -
less or dangerous manner which could 
jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of 
others.Vehicle modifications, or failure to properly 
maintain your vehicle, may change the 
handling characteristics of your vehicle, 
and may negatively affect the performance 
of the ESC system. Changes to the steering 
system, suspension, braking system, tire 
type and size or wheel size may adversely 
affect ESC performance. Improperly 
inflated and unevenly worn tires may also 
degrade ESC performance. Any vehicle 
modification or poor vehicle maintenance 
that reduces the effectiveness of the ESC 
system can increase the risk of loss of 
vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal 
injury and death.
WARNING!  (Continued)
6
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 147   

150SAFETY  
tire sidewall. The tire pressure will also increase 
as the vehicle is driven — this is normal and 
there should be no adjustment for this 
increased pressure.
See  Úpage 234 on how to properly inflate the 
vehicle’s tires.
The TPMS will warn the driver of a low tire 
pressure if the tire pressure falls below the 
low-pressure warning limit for any reason, 
including low temperature effects and natural 
pressure loss through the tire.
The TPMS will continue to warn the driver of low 
tire pressure as long as the condition exists, 
and will not turn off until the tire pressure is at 
or above the recommended cold placard 
pressure. Once the low tire pressure warning 
(TPMS Warning Light) illuminates, you must 
increase the tire pressure to the recommended 
cold placard pressure in order for the TPMS 
Warning Light to turn off. The system will 
automatically update and the TPMS Warning 
Light will turn off once the system receives the 
updated tire pressures. The vehicle may need to 
be driven for up to 20 minutes above 15 mph 
(24 km/h) in order for the TPMS to receive this 
information. NOTE:
When filling warm tires, the tire pressure may 
need to be increased up to an additional 4 psi 
(28 kPa) above the recommended cold placard 
pressure in order to turn the TPMS Warning 
Light off.
For example, your vehicle may have a 
recommended cold (parked for more than three 
hours) placard pressure of 30 psi (207 kPa). If 
the ambient temperature is 68°F (20°C) and 
the measured tire pressure is 27 psi (186 kPa), 
a temperature drop to 20°F (-7°C) will 
decrease the tire pressure to approximately
23 psi (158 kPa). This tire pressure is 
sufficiently low enough to turn on the TPMS 
Warning Light. Driving the vehicle may cause 
the tire pressure to rise to approximately 27 psi 
(186 kPa), but the TPMS Warning Light will still 
be on. In this situation, the TPMS Warning Light 
will turn off only after the tires are inflated to the 
vehicle’s recommended cold placard pressure 
value.CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the orig
-
inal equipment tires and wheels. TPMS 
pressures and warning have been estab -
lished for the tire size equipped on your 
vehicle. Undesirable system operation or 
sensor damage may result when using 
replacement equipment that is not of the 
same size, type, and/or style. Aftermarket 
wheels can cause sensor damage.
Using aftermarket tire sealants may cause 
the Tire Pressure Monitoring System 
(TPMS) sensor to become inoperable. After 
using an aftermarket tire sealant it is 
recommended that you take your vehicle to 
an authorized dealership to have your 
sensor function checked.
After inspecting or adjusting the tire pres -
sure always reinstall the valve stem cap. 
This will prevent moisture and dirt from 
entering the valve stem, which could 
damage the TPMS sensor.
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 150   

152SAFETY  
Check TPMS Warnings
The Tire Pressure Monitoring Warning Light will 
flash on and off for 75 seconds and remain on 
solid when a system fault is detected, an 
audible chime will be activated and a proper 
text message will be displayed. If the ignition 
key is cycled, this sequence will repeat 
providing the system fault still exists. The Tire 
Pressure Monitoring Warning Light will turn off 
when the fault condition no longer exists. A 
system fault can occur with any of the following 
scenarios:
1. Jamming due to electronic devices or 
driving next to facilities emitting the same 
radio frequencies as the TPM sensors.
2. Installing some form of aftermarket window  tinting that affects radio wave signals.
3. Snow or ice around the wheels or wheel  housings. 4. Using tire chains on the vehicle.
5. Using wheels/tires not equipped with TPM 
sensors.
NOTE:
Your vehicle can be equipped with either a Tire 
Service Kit, a compact spare tire or a regular 
size spare tire (with or without original TPMS 
sensor).
1. Tire Service Kit (original tire sealant – if  equipped): After fixing the punctured tire 
with original tire sealant, the original 
situation will be restored, so system will 
turn off the telltale during the normal drive.
2. Compact Spare Tire – if equipped: The  compact spare wheel is not equipped with a 
TPMS sensor. So when mounted, during the 
normal drive the system will turn on the 
telltale (flashing for approximately 
75 seconds then remains solid). This 
condition persists until a wheel equipped 
with original TPMS sensor has been 
mounted on the vehicle. 3. Regular size spare tire (not equipped with 
TPMS sensor): When mounted, during the 
normal drive the system will turn on the 
telltale (flashing for approximately 
75 seconds then remains solid). This 
condition persists until a wheel equipped 
with original TPMS sensor has been 
mounted on the vehicle. Then the system 
will be restored and the telltale will turn off 
during the normal drive.
4. Regular size spare tire (equipped with TPMS  sensor): When mounted, the telltale will 
turn off during the normal drive.
5. In all the above cases, please check the  replacement tire inflation pressure before 
driving your vehicle.
6. In case of tire replacement, if the vehicle is  driven for short periods of time, then the 
system can take a while to be restored.
NOTE:
For a correct Tire Pressure Monitoring behavior, 
please wait for about 20 minutes in key-off 
during each tire substitution.
21_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 152