
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL47
Transmission Fault Warning Light
This light will illuminate (together with a 
message in the instrument cluster 
display and a buzzer) to indicate a 
transmission fault. Contact an 
authorized dealer if the message remains after 
restarting the engine.
Engine Oil Level Warning Light
This warning light appears on the panel 
when the engine oil level falls below the 
minimum recommended value. Restore 
the correct engine oil level or contact an 
authorized dealer for service.
YELLOW WARNING LIGHTS
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning 
Light 
This light monitors the ABS. The light will 
turn on when the ignition is placed in the 
ON/RUN or MAR/ON/RUN position and 
may stay on for as long as four seconds.
If the ABS light remains on or turns on while 
driving, then the Anti-Lock portion of the brake 
system is not functioning and service is required. 
However, the conventional brake system will 
continue to operate normally if the brake warning 
light is not on. If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be 
serviced as soon as possible to restore the 
benefits of Anti-Lock Brakes. If the ABS light does 
not turn on when the ignition is placed in the ON/
RUN or MAR/ON/RUN position, have the light 
inspected by an authorized dealer.
Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level reaches 
approximately 2–3 gal (9–11 L) this 
light will turn on, and remain on until 
fuel is added.
Generic Warning Light
The Generic Warning Light will 
illuminate if any of the following 
conditions occur: Engine Oil Pressure 
Sensor Failure, External Light Failure, 
Parking Sensor Failure, Fuel Cut-Off Fail/
Intervention, Generic Failure on Trailer, or Air Bag 
telltale recovery.
The telltale will blink in case of an Air Bag Warning 
Light Failure. Contact an authorized dealer 
immediately for service.
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.
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
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 47   

50GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL  
Cruise Control Indicator Light —
If Equipped  
This indicator light will illuminate when 
the cruise control is activated  
Úpage 60.
NOTE:There will be no change in the indicator light when 
the desired speed is set.
BLUE INDICATOR LIGHTS
High Beam Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate to 
indicate that the high beam headlights 
are on. With the low beams activated, 
push the multifunction lever forward 
(toward the front of the vehicle) to turn on the high 
beams. Pull the multifunction lever rearward 
(toward the rear of the vehicle) to turn off the high 
beams. If the high beams are off, pull the lever 
toward you for a temporary high beam on, “flash to 
pass” scenario.
WHITE INDICATOR LIGHTS
Speed Warning Indicator Light — 
If Equipped
When Set Speed Warning is turned on, 
the speed warning telltale will illuminate 
in the instrument cluster with a number 
matching the set speed. When the set 
speed is exceeded, a single chime will sound along 
with pop-up message of speed warning exceeded.
Speed Warning can be turned on and off in the 
instrument cluster display  Ú page 40.
NOTE:The number “55” is only an example of a speed 
that can be set.
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II   
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated 
Onboard Diagnostic system called OBD II. This 
system monitors the performance of the 
emissions, engine, and transmission control 
systems. When these systems are operating 
properly, your vehicle will provide excellent 
performance and fuel economy, as well as engine 
emissions well within current government 
regulations. If any of these systems require service, the OBD II 
system will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light 
(MIL). It will also store diagnostic codes and other 
information to assist your service technician in 
making repairs. Although your vehicle will usually 
be drivable and not need towing, see an authorized 
dealer for service as soon as possible.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause 
further damage to the emission control 
system. It could also affect fuel economy and 
driveability. The vehicle must be serviced 
before any emissions tests can be performed.
If the MIL is flashing while the vehicle is 
running, severe catalytic converter damage 
and power loss will soon occur. Immediate 
service is required.
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 50   

52  
STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING THE ENGINE 
Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, 
adjust both inside and outside mirrors, and fasten 
your seat belts.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The gear selector must be in the PARK (P) or 
NEUTRAL (N) position before you can start the 
engine. Press the brake pedal before shifting to 
any driving gear.
NOTE:You must press the brake pedal before shifting out 
of PARK.
NORMAL STARTING
Turn the ignition switch to the AVV (START) position 
and release it when the engine starts. If the engine 
fails to start within 10 seconds, turn the ignition 
switch to the STOP (OFF/LOCK) position, wait 10 to 
15 seconds, then repeat this procedure.
COLD WEATHER OPERATION 
To ensure reliable starting at low temperatures, 
use of an externally powered electric engine block 
heater (available from an authorized dealer) is 
recommended.
To prevent possible engine damage while starting 
at low temperatures, this vehicle will inhibit engine 
cranking when the ambient temperature is less 
than -31°F (-35° C) and the oil temperature 
sensor reading indicates an engine block heater 
has not been used. The message “Plug In Engine 
Heater” will be displayed in the instrument cluster 
when the ambient temperature is below -25°F 
(-32° C) at the time the engine is shut off as a 
reminder.
EXTENDED PARK STARTING
NOTE:Extended Park condition occurs when the vehicle 
has not been started or driven for at least 30 days.
1. Install a battery charger or jumper cables to the battery to ensure a full battery charge 
during the crank cycle.
2. Place the ignition in the AVV (START) position  and release it when the engine starts.
3. If the engine fails to start within ten seconds,  place the ignition in the STOP (OFF/LOCK) 
position, wait 10 to 15 seconds to allow the 
starter to cool, then repeat the Extended Park 
Starting procedure.
4. If the engine fails to start after eight attempts,  allow the starter to cool for at least 
10 minutes, then repeat the procedure.
WARNING!
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with 
access to an unlocked vehicle.
Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended 
is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child 
or others could be seriously or fatally injured. 
Children should be warned not to touch the 
parking brake, brake pedal or the transmis -
sion 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.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank 
continuously for more than 10 seconds at a 
time. Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 52   

54STARTING AND OPERATING  
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS 
A long break-in period is not required for the engine 
and drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your 
vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles 
(500 km). After the initial 60 miles (100 km), 
speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are 
desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within 
the limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good 
break-in. Wide-open throttle acceleration in low 
gear can be detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory 
is a high-quality energy conserving type lubricant. 
Oil changes should be consistent with anticipated 
climate conditions under which vehicle operations 
will occur. For the recommended viscosity and 
quality grades  Ú page 240.
NOTE:A new engine may consume some oil during its first 
few thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This 
should be considered a normal part of the break-in 
and not interpreted as a concern. Please check 
your oil level with the engine oil indicator often 
during the break-in period. Add oil as required.
PARKING BRAKE 
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the 
parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to 
leave an automatic transmission in PARK.
The parking brake lever is located in the center 
console. To apply the parking brake, pull the lever 
up as firmly as possible. To release the parking 
brake, pull the lever up slightly, push the center 
button, then lower the lever completely.
Parking Brake
 When the parking brake is applied with the ignition 
switch in the ON position, the Brake Warning Light 
in the instrument cluster display will illuminate.
NOTE:
When the parking brake is applied and the auto
-
matic transmission is placed in gear, the Brake 
Warning Light will flash. If vehicle speed is 
detected, a chime will sound to alert the driver. 
Fully release the parking brake before 
attempting to move the vehicle.
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 downhill grade 
and away from the curb on an uphill grade. For 
vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, 
apply the parking brake before placing the gear 
selector in PARK, otherwise the load on the 
transmission locking 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.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral 
Oil in the engine or damage may result.
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 54   

56STARTING AND OPERATING  
KEY IGNITION PARK INTERLOCK
This vehicle is equipped with a Key Ignition Park 
Interlock which requires the transmission to be in 
PARK before the ignition can be turned to the full 
STOP (OFF/LOCK) (key removal) position. The key 
can only be removed from the ignition when the 
ignition is in the STOP (OFF/LOCK) position, and 
once removed, the transmission is locked in PARK.
BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT 
I
NTERLOCK (BTSI) SYSTEM 
This vehicle is equipped with a BTSI that holds the 
transmission gear selector in PARK unless the 
brakes are applied. To shift the transmission out of 
PARK, the ignition must be in the MAR (ON/RUN) 
position (engine running or not) and the brake 
pedal must be pressed. The brake pedal must also be pressed to shift from 
NEUTRAL into DRIVE or REVERSE when the vehicle 
is stopped or moving at low speeds.
9-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION 
The transmission gear range (PRND) is displayed 
both beside the gear selector and in the 
instrument cluster display. To select a gear range, 
push the lock button on the gear selector and 
move the lever rearward or forward. You must also 
press the brake pedal to shift the transmission out 
of PARK (or NEUTRAL, when the vehicle is stopped 
or moving at low speeds). Select the DRIVE range 
for normal driving.
NOTE:In the event of a mismatch between the gear 
selector position and the actual transmission gear 
(for example, driver selects REVERSE while driving 
forward), the position indicator will blink continu
-
ously until the selector is returned to the proper 
position, or the requested shift can be completed.
The electronically controlled transmission adapts 
its shift schedule based on driver inputs, along 
with environmental and road conditions. The 
transmission electronics are self-calibrating; 
therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle may 
be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition, 
and precision shifts will develop within a few 
hundred miles or kilometers. The 9-speed transmission has been developed to 
meet the needs of current and future FWD/AWD 
vehicles. Software and calibration is refined to 
optimize the customer’s driving experience and 
fuel economy. By design, some vehicle and 
driveline combinations utilize NINTH gear only in 
very specific driving situations and conditions.
Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when 
the accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is 
stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on the brake 
pedal when shifting between these gears.
The transmission gear selector provides PARK, 
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, DRIVE, and Electronic Range 
Select (ERS) shift positions. Manual downshifts can 
be made using the ERS shift control. Moving the gear 
selector into the ERS “-”/”+” position (beside the 
DRIVE position) activates ERS mode, displays the 
current gear in the instrument cluster, and prevents 
automatic upshifts beyond this gear. In ERS mode, 
toggling the gear selector forward “-” or rearward “+” 
will change the highest available gear 
 Ú
page 59.
NOTE:If the gear selector cannot be moved to the PARK, 
REVERSE, or NEUTRAL position (when pushed 
forward) it is probably in the ERS “+”/”-” position 
(beside the DRIVE position). In ERS mode, the 
transmission gear limit (1, 2, 3, etc.) is displayed in 
the instrument cluster. Move the gear selector to 
the right (into the DRIVE [D] position) for access to 
PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL.
CAUTION!
Shift into or out of PARK or REVERSE only after 
the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
Do not shift between PARK, REVERSE, 
NEUTRAL, or DRIVE when the engine is above 
idle speed.
Before shifting into any gear, make sure your 
foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal.
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 56   

58STARTING AND OPERATING  
The following indicators should be used to ensure 
that you have properly engaged the transmission 
into the PARK position:
When shifting into PARK, push the lock button 
on the gear selector and firmly move the gear 
selector all the way forward until it stops and is 
fully seated.
Look at the transmission gear position display 
and verify that it indicates the PARK position.
With brake pedal released, verify that the gear 
selector will not move out of PARK.
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward. 
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has come 
to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for 
prolonged periods with the engine running. Apply 
the parking brake and shift the transmission into 
PARK if you must exit the vehicle.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and 
highway driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts 
and downshifts, and the best fuel economy. The 
transmission automatically upshifts through all 
forward gears.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such 
as when operating the vehicle under heavy loading 
conditions, in hilly terrain, traveling into strong 
head winds, or while towing a heavy trailer), use 
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control to 
select a lower gear range   Úpage 59. Under these 
conditions, using a lower gear range will improve 
performance and extend transmission life by 
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
If the transmission temperature exceeds normal 
operating limits, the transmission controller may 
modify the transmission shift schedule, reduce 
engine torque, and/or expand the range of torque 
converter clutch engagement. This is done to 
prevent transmission damage due to overheating.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with 
access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing chil -
dren to be in a vehicle unattended is 
dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or 
others could be seriously or fatally injured. 
Children should be warned not to touch the 
parking brake, brake pedal or the transmis -
sion gear selector.
Do not leave the ignition key in or near the 
vehicle (or in a location accessible to chil-
dren). A child could operate power windows, 
other controls, or move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
Before moving the transmission gear selector 
out of PARK, you must turn the ignition to the 
ON/RUN position, and also press the brake 
pedal. Otherwise, damage to the gear selector 
could result.
DO NOT race the engine when shifting from 
PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range, as 
this can damage the drivetrain.
WARNING!
WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the 
ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe 
practices that limit your response to changing 
traffic or road conditions. You might lose control 
of the vehicle and have a collision.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any 
other reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL 
can cause severe transmission damage.
For Recreational Towing  Ú page 75.
For Towing A Disabled Vehicle  Ú page 187.
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 58   

STARTING AND OPERATING59
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the 
Transmission Temperature Warning Light may 
illuminate and the transmission may operate 
differently until the transmission cools down.
During cold temperatures, transmission 
operation may be modified depending on engine 
and transmission temperature as well as vehicle 
speed. This feature improves warm up time of the 
engine and transmission to achieve maximum 
efficiency. Engagement of the torque converter 
clutch, and shifts into EIGHTH or NINTH gear, are 
inhibited until the transmission fluid is warm 
 
Ú
 page 59. Normal operation will resume once 
the transmission temperature has risen to a 
suitable level.
Transmission Limp Home Mode
Transmission function is monitored electronically 
for abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected 
that could result in transmission damage, 
Transmission Limp Home Mode is activated. In this 
mode, the transmission may operate only in a fixed 
gear, or may remain in NEUTRAL. The Malfunction 
Indicator Light (MIL) may be illuminated. Limp 
Home Mode may allow the vehicle to be driven to 
an authorized dealer for service without damaging 
the transmission. In the event of a momentary problem, the 
transmission can be reset to regain all forward 
gears by performing the following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the ignition OFF.
4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the 
problem is no longer detected, the 
transmission will return to normal operation.
NOTE:
Even if the transmission can be reset, we recommend 
that you visit an authorized dealer at your earliest 
possible convenience. An authorized dealer has diag -
nostic equipment to assess the condition of your 
transmission. If the transmission cannot be reset, 
authorized dealer service is required.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has 
been included in the automatic transmission on 
your vehicle. A clutch within the torque converter 
engages automatically at calibrated speeds. This 
may result in a slightly different feeling or response 
during normal operation in the upper gears. When 
the vehicle speed drops or during some 
accelerations, the clutch automatically 
disengages.
NOTE:The torque converter clutch will not engage until 
the transmission fluid is warm [usually after 1 to 
3 miles (2 to 5 km) of driving]. Because the engine 
speed is higher when the torque converter clutch is 
not engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is 
not shifting properly when cold. This is normal. The 
torque converter clutch will function normally once 
the transmission is sufficiently warm.
Electronic Range Select (ERS) Operation 
The ERS shift control allows the driver to limit the 
highest available gear. For example, if you set the 
transmission gear limit to FIFTH gear, the 
transmission will not shift above FIFTH gear, but 
will shift through the lower gears normally.
You can switch between DRIVE and ERS mode at 
any vehicle speed. When the gear selector is in the 
DRIVE position, the transmission will operate 
automatically, shifting between all available gears.
Moving the gear selector to the ERS position (beside 
DRIVE) will activate ERS mode, display the current 
gear in the instrument cluster, and set that gear as 
the top available gear. Once in ERS mode, moving 
the gear selector forward “-” or rearward “+” will 
change the top available gear, which will be 
displayed in the instrument cluster.
To exit ERS mode, simply return the gear selector 
to the DRIVE position.4
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 59   

STARTING AND OPERATING61
Cruise Control Buttons
TO ACTIVATE
Push the on/off button to activate the Cruise 
Control. The cruise indicator light in the instrument 
cluster display will illuminate. To turn the system 
off, push the on/off button a second time. The 
cruise indicator light will turn off. The system 
should be turned off when not in use.
TO SET A DESIRED SPEED
Turn the Cruise Control on. When the vehicle has 
reached the desired speed greater than 25 mph 
(40 km/h), push the SET (-) button and release. 
Release the accelerator and the vehicle will 
operate at the selected speed.
NOTE:The vehicle should be traveling at a steady speed 
and on level ground before pushing the SET (-) 
button.
TO VARY THE SPEED SETTING
To Increase Or Decrease The Set Speed
When the Cruise Control is set, you can increase 
speed by pushing the RES  (+) button, or decrease 
the speed by pushing the SET  (-) button. U.S. Speed (mph)
Pushing the RES 
(+) or SET  (-) button once will 
result in a 1 mph speed adjustment. Each 
subsequent tap of the button results in an 
adjustment of 1 mph.
If the button is continually pushed, the set 
speed will continue to adjust until the button is 
released, then the new set speed will be estab -
lished.
Metric Speed (km/h)
Pushing the RES  (+) or SET  (-) button once will 
result in a 1 km/h speed adjustment. Each 
subsequent tap of the button results in an 
adjustment of 1 km/h.
If the button is continually pushed, the set 
speed will continue to adjust until the button is 
released, then the new set speed will be estab -
lished.
TO ACCELERATE FOR PASSING
While the Cruise Control is set, press the 
accelerator to pass as you would normally. When 
the pedal is released, the vehicle will return to the 
set speed.
1 — On/Off
2 — CAN/Cancel
3 — RES (+)/Resume/Accel
4 — SET (–)/Set Speed/Decel
WARNING!
Leaving the Cruise Control system on when not 
in use is dangerous. You could accidentally set 
the system or cause it to go faster than you 
want. You could lose control and have an 
accident. Always leave the system off when you 
are not using it.
4
22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 61