2021 RAM PROMASTER check engine

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE223
COOLING SYSTEM Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze)
protection every 12 months (before the onset of
freezing weather, where applicable). If the
engine coolant is dirty, the system should be
drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh OAT
coolant (conforming to MS-12106) only by an
authorized dealer. Check the front of the A/C
condenser for any accumulation of bugs,
leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently spraying
water from a garden hose vertically down the
face of the condenser.
Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE:

Some vehicles require special tools to add
coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems
properly could lead to severe internal engine
damage. If any coolant is needed to be added to
the system please contact an authorized dealer.

If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or
contains visible sediment, have an authorized
dealer clean and flush with OAT coolant
(conforming to MS.90032).
For the proper maintenance intervals
Úpage 212.
Selection Of Coolant
For further information Ú page 268.
NOTE:
Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other
than specified Organic Additive Technology
(OAT) engine coolant, may result in engine
damage and may decrease corrosion protec-
tion. OAT engine coolant is different and
should not be mixed with Hybrid Organic
Additive Technology (HOAT) engine coolant or
any “globally compatible” coolant. If a
non-OAT engine coolant is introduced into the
cooling system in an emergency, the cooling
system will need to be drained, flushed, and
refilled with fresh OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032), by an authorized dealer as soon
as possible.
Do not use water alone or alcohol-based
engine coolant products. Do not use addi-
tional rust inhibitors or antirust products, as
they may not be compatible with the radiator
engine coolant and may plug the radiator.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot
engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from
your radiator. If you see or hear steam
coming from under the hood, do not open
the hood until the radiator has had time to
cool. Never open a cooling system pressure
cap when the radiator or coolant bottle is
hot.
Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry
away from the radiator cooling fan when
the hood is raised. The fan starts automati -
cally and may start at any time, whether the
engine is running or not.
When working near the radiator cooling fan,
disconnect the fan motor lead and turn the
ignition to the OFF mode. The fan is
temperature controlled and can start at any
time the ignition is in the ON mode.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE225
Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze)
is a regulated substance requiring proper
disposal. Check with your local authorities to
determine the disposal rules for your
community. To prevent ingestion by animals or
children, do not store ethylene glycol-based
coolant in open containers or allow it to remain
in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a child
or pet, seek emergency assistance
immediately. Clean up any ground spills
immediately.
Coolant Level
The coolant expansion bottle provides a quick
visual method for determining that the coolant
level is adequate. With engine off and cold, the
level of the engine coolant (antifreeze) in the
bottle should be between the “MIN” and “MAX”
marks.
Cooling System Notes
NOTE:
When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/
kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor
coming from the front of the engine compart -
ment. This is normally a result of moisture from
rain, snow, or high humidity accumulating on
the radiator and being vaporized when the ther -
mostat opens, allowing hot engine coolant (anti -
freeze) to enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment
shows no evidence of radiator or hose leaks,
the vehicle may be safely driven. The vapor will
soon dissipate.
Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator
and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine
coolant needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion bottle must also be
protected against freezing.
If frequent engine coolant additions are
required, the cooling system should be pres
-
sure tested for leaks.
Maintain engine coolant concentration at a
minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) and distilled water for proper
corrosion protection of your engine which
contains aluminum components.
Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle
overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your
vehicle is equipped with air conditioning,
keep the front of the condenser clean.
Do not change the thermostat for Summer or
Winter operation. If replacement is ever
necessary, install ONLY the correct type ther -
mostat. Other designs may result in unsatis -
factory engine cooling performance, poor gas
mileage, and increased emissions.
WARNING!
Do not open hot engine cooling system.
Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when
the engine is overheated. Do not loosen or
remove the cap to cool an overheated
engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in
the cooling system. To prevent scalding or
injury, do not remove the pressure cap
while the system is hot or under pressure.
Do not use a pressure cap other than the
one specified for your vehicle. Personal
injury or engine damage may result.
8

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226SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance,
all brake system components should be
inspected periodically Úpage 212.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be
checked when performing under the hood
service or immediately if the brake system
warning lamp indicates system failure. 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 cylinder area before removing
cap. With disc brakes the fluid level can be
expected to fall as the brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in fluid level may
be caused by a leak and a system check should
be conducted Ú
page 268.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Selection Of Lubricant

It is important to use the proper transmission
fluid to ensure optimum transmission
performance and life. Use only the
manufacturer’s specified transmission fluid

Ú
page 270. It is important to maintain the

WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure
and possibly a collision. Driving with your foot
resting or riding on the brake pedal can result
in abnormally high brake temperatures,
excessive lining wear, and possible brake
damage. You would not have your full braking
capacity in an emergency.
WARNING!
Use only FCA's recommended brake fluid
Ú page 268. Using the wrong type of brake
fluid can severely damage your brake
system and/or impair its performance. The
proper type of brake fluid for your vehicle is
also identified on the original factory
installed hydraulic master cylinder
reservoir.
To avoid contamination from foreign matter
or moisture, use only new brake fluid or
fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container. Keep the master cylinder reser -
voir cap secured at all times. Brake fluid in
a open container absorbs moisture from
the air resulting in a lower boiling point. This
may cause it to boil unexpectedly during
hard or prolonged braking, resulting in
sudden brake failure. This could result in a
collision.
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can
result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine
parts, causing the brake fluid to catch fire.
Brake fluid can also damage painted and
vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
Do not allow petroleum based fluid to
contaminate the brake fluid. Brake seal
components could be damaged, causing
partial or complete brake failure. This could
result in a collision.
WARNING! (Continued)

21_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 226

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE227

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.

Special Additives
The manufacturer 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. The only exception to this policy is the use of special dyes
for diagnosing fluid leaks in six-speed
transmissions. 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 filler tube
is capped and no dipstick is provided. Your
authorized dealer can check your transmission
fluid level using a special service dipstick. If you
notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit your 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
For the proper maintenance intervals
Ú
page 212.
In addition, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if
the transmission is disassembled for any
reason.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may
cause deterioration in transmission shift
quality and/or torque converter shudder, and
will require more frequent fluid and filter
changes Ú page 270.
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.
8

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228SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
FUSES
General Information
The fuses protect electrical systems against
excessive current.
When a device does not work, you must check
the fuse element inside the blade fuse for a
break/melt.
Also, please be aware that when using power
outlets for extended periods of time with the
engine off may result in vehicle battery
discharge.
Blade Fuses

WARNING!
When replacing a blown fuse, always use
an appropriate replacement fuse with the
same amp rating as the original fuse. Never
replace a fuse with another fuse of higher
amp rating. Never replace a blown fuse with
metal wires or any other material. Do not
place a fuse inside a circuit breaker cavity
or vice versa. Failure to use proper fuses
may result in serious personal injury, fire
and/or property damage.
Before replacing a fuse, make sure that the
ignition is off and that all the other services
are switched off and/or disengaged.
If the replaced fuse blows again, contact an
authorized dealer.
If a general protection fuse for safety
systems (air bag system, braking system),
power unit systems (engine system, trans
-
mission system) or steering system blows,
contact an authorized dealer.
CAUTION!
If it is necessary to wash the engine
compartment, take care not to directly hit the
fuse box, and the windshield wiper motors
with water.
1 — Fuse Element
2 — Blade Fuse with a good/functional
fuse element
3 — Blade fuse with a bad/not functional
fuse element (blown fuse)

21_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 228

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS265
Inspect the wheel mounting surface prior to
mounting the tire and remove any corrosion or
loose particles.

Wheel Mounting Surface

Tighten the lug nuts/bolts in a star pattern until
each nut/bolt has been tightened twice. Ensure
that the socket is fully engaged on the lug nut/
bolt (do not insert it halfway).
Torque Patterns

After 25 miles (40 km), check the lug nut/bolt torque to be sure that all the lug nuts/bolts are
properly seated against the wheel.FUEL REQUIREMENTS
While operating on gasoline with the required
octane number, hearing a light knocking sound
from the engine is not a cause for concern.
However, if the engine is heard making a heavy
knocking sound, see a dealer immediately. Use
of gasoline with a lower than recommended
octane number can cause engine failure and
may void or not be covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such
as hard starting, stalling, and hesitations. If you
experience these symptoms, try another brand
of gasoline before considering service for the
vehicle.
3.6L ENGINE
This engine is designed to meet all
emissions regulations and provide
optimum fuel economy and
performance when using high quality
unleaded “Regular” gasoline having a posted
octane number of 87 as specified by the (R+M)/
2 method. The use of higher octane “Premium”
gasoline is not required, as it will not provide
any benefit over “Regular” gasoline in these
engines.
WARNING!
To avoid the risk of forcing the vehicle off the
jack, do not tighten the lug nuts/bolts fully
until the vehicle has been lowered. Failure to
follow this warning may result in personal
injury.
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275
INDEX
A
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)............... 224Adding Washing Fluid.................................... 217Additives, Fuel............................................... 266Advance Phone Connectivity......................... 121Air Bag........................................................... 174Air Bag Operation...................................... 175Air Bag Warning Light................................ 173Enhanced Accident Response...................210Event Data Recorder (EDR)....................... 210If Deployment Occurs................................ 178Maintaining Your Air Bag System.............. 179Maintenance............................................. 179Side Air Bags............................................. 175Transporting Pets...................................... 187Air Bag Light..................................48, 173, 187Air Cleaner, Engine
(Engine Air Cleaner Filter).............................. 219Air Conditioner Maintenance......................... 219Air Conditioner Refrigerant.................. 219, 220Air Conditioner System.................................. 219Air Conditioning Filter............................. 35, 220Air Conditioning, Operating Tips................ 34, 35Air Filter......................................................... 219Air PressureTires.......................................................... 249
AlarmSecurity Alarm...................................... 13, 50Alarm SystemSecurity Alarm............................................. 13Alterations/ModificationsVehicle........................................................... 7Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)................. 223, 268Disposal................................................... 225Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)...................... 149Anti-Lock Warning Light................................... 53Assist, Hill Start............................................. 153Audio Settings............................................... 107Audio Systems (Radio)..................................... 88Auto Down Power Windows............................. 39Auto Up Power Windows.................................. 39Automatic Door Locks...................................... 15Automatic Transmission.........................60, 227Adding Fluid.............................................. 227Fluid And Filter Change............................ 227Fluid Change............................................ 227Fluid Level Check............................ 226, 227Fluid Type........................................ 226, 270Special Additives...................................... 227AUX Cord.......................................................... 37Auxiliary Driving Systems.............................. 155
B
Battery................................................... 48, 217Charging System Light.................................48Keyless Key Fob Replacement....................11Belts, Seat.................................................... 187Blind Spot Monitoring................................... 155BluetoothConnecting To A Particular Mobile PhoneOr Audio Device After Pairing
................ 116Body Builders Guide........................................... 7Body Mechanism Lubrication........................ 221B-Pillar Location............................................ 245Brake Assist System..................................... 150Brake Control System, Electronic.................. 150Brake Fluid........................................... 226, 270Brake System....................................... 226, 264Anti-Lock (ABS)......................................... 149Fluid Check............................................... 226Master Cylinder........................................ 226Parking........................................................59Warning Light...............................................49Brake, Parking.................................................59Brake/Transmission Interlock..........................60Bulb Replacement........................................ 235Bulbs, Light.......................................... 188, 23511

21_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 275

276 C
Camera, Rear
.................................................. 73Capacities, Fluid............................................ 268Caps, Filler Fuel............................................................. 75Oil (Engine)................................................ 215Power Steering............................................ 67Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...................... 224Car Washes................................................... 261Carbon Monoxide Warning............................ 189Cargo Area Cover............................................. 41Cargo Compartment........................................ 41Cargo Light...................................................... 28Certification Label........................................... 76Change Oil Indicator........................................ 45Changing A Flat Tire....................................... 190Chart, Tire Sizing............................................ 241Check Engine Light
(Malfunction Indicator Light)........................... 56Checking Your Vehicle For Safety.................. 186Checks, Safety............................................... 186Child Restraint............................................... 181Child RestraintsBooster Seats............................................ 184Child Seat Installation............................... 186Infant And Child Restraints....................... 183Older Children And Child Restraints..........183Clean Air Gasoline......................................... 266CleaningWheels...................................................... 255
Climate Control................................................ 31Manual........................................................ 31Rear............................................................. 34Cold Weather Operation.................................. 57Compact Spare Tire...................................... 253Contract, Service.......................................... 272Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap)............ 224Cooling System............................................. 223Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)...................... 224Coolant Level................................... 223, 225Cooling Capacity....................................... 268Disposal Of Used Coolant......................... 225Drain, Flush, And Refill............................. 223Inspection................................................. 225Points To Remember................................ 225Pressure Cap............................................ 224Radiator Cap............................................ 224Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze)..... 223, 268Corrosion Protection..................................... 260Cruise Control (Speed Control)........................ 67Cruise Light...................................................... 54Cupholders................................................... 263Customer Assistance.................................... 271Customer Programmable Features.................. 89Cybersecurity................................................... 88
D
Dealer Service.............................................. 218Defroster, Windshield................................... 187Deleting A Phone.......................................... 117
Diagnostic System, Onboard............................55Dimmer Control Switch....................................29Dimmer SwitchHeadlight.....................................................26DipsticksAutomatic Transmission........................... 227Oil (Engine)............................................... 216Power Steering............................................67Disable Vehicle Towing................................. 209Disconnecting............................................... 117DisposalAntifreeze (Engine Coolant)...................... 225Disturb.......................................................... 120Door Ajar..........................................................49Door Ajar Light.................................................49Door Locks.......................................................14Automatic....................................................15Doors...............................................................14Driver’s Seat Back Tilt......................................15DrivingThrough Flowing, Rising, Or Shallow Standing Water
..........................86
E
Electric Brake Control System....................... 150Electric Remote Mirrors...................................24Electrical Power Outlets...................................37Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control)........67Electronic Stability Control (ESC)................... 150Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light.........49

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