2023 CHRYSLER VOYAGER transmission

STARTING AND OPERATING81
(Continued)
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
You must press and hold the brake pedal while shifting out
of PARK.
IGNITION PARK INTERLOCK
This vehicle is equipped with an Ignition Park Interlock
which requires the transmission to be in PARK before the
ignition can be turned to the OFF position. This helps the
driver avoid inadvertently leaving the vehicle without
placing the transmission in PARK. This system also locks
the transmission in PARK whenever the ignition is in the
OFF position.
NOTE:The transmission is NOT locked in PARK when the ignition
is in the ACC position (even though the engine will be off).
Ensure that the transmission is in PARK, and the ignition
is OFF (not in ACC position) before exiting the vehicle.
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or around a motor
vehicle. Do only that service work for which you have
the knowledge and the right equipment. If you have any
doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take
your vehicle to a competent mechanic.
WARNING!
Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the
parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully
when exiting the vehicle to guard against vehicle
movement and possible injury or damage.
 Your vehicle could move and injure you and others if
it is not in PARK. Check by trying to move the trans -
mission gear selector out of PARK with the brake
pedal released. Make sure the transmission is in
PARK before exiting the vehicle.
 The transmission may not engage PARK if the vehicle
is moving. Always bring the vehicle to a complete
stop before shifting to PARK, and verify that the
transmission gear position indicator solidly indicates
PARK (P) without blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is
completely stopped, and the PARK position is prop -
erly indicated, before exiting the vehicle.

 It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL if the
engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not
firmly pressing the brake pedal, the vehicle could accel -
erate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control
of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift
into gear when the engine is idling normally and your foot
is firmly pressing the brake pedal.

 Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure
those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles,
you should never exit a vehicle while the engine is
running. Before exiting a vehicle, always come to a
complete stop, then apply the parking brake, shift
the transmission into PARK, and turn the ignition
OFF. When the ignition is in the OFF position, the
transmission is locked in PARK, securing the vehicle
against unwanted movement.
 When exiting the vehicle, always make sure the igni -
tion is in the OFF position, remove the key fob from
the vehicle, and lock the vehicle.

 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 transmission gear selector.
 Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle (or in a loca -
tion accessible to children), and do not leave the ignition
in the ACC or ON/RUN position. A child could operate
power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.

WARNING!CAUTION!
Damage to the transmission may occur if the following
precautions are not observed:
 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.
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82STARTING AND OPERATING
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 engine
must be running 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 is controlled using a rotary electronic gear
selector located on the center console. The transmission gear
selector has PARK, REVERSE, NEUTRAL, DRIVE, and LOW shift
positions. Using the LOW position manually downshifts the
transmission to a lower gear based on vehicle speed. The
transmission gear range (PRNDL) is displayed both above the
gear selector and in the instrument cluster. To select a gear
range, simply rotate the gear selector. Push down on the gear
selector and then rotate it, to access the L position. You must
also press the brake pedal to shift the transmission out of PARK
(or NEUTRAL, when stopped or moving at low speeds). To shift
past multiple gear ranges at once (such as PARK to DRIVE),
simply rotate the gear selector to the appropriate detent. 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 PARK while driving), the position indicator
will blink continuously 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 (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.

Transmission Gear Selector

GEAR RANGES
Do not press the accelerator pedal when shifting from
PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range.
NOTE:After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to allow the
selected gear to engage before accelerating. This is espe
-
cially important when the engine is cold.
PARK (P)
This range supplements the parking brake by locking the
transmission. The engine can be started in this range.
Never attempt to use PARK while the vehicle is in motion.
Apply the parking brake when exiting the vehicle in this
range.
When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake before
shifting the transmission to PARK. As an added
precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a
downhill grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade.
When exiting the vehicle, always:
 Apply the parking brake.
 Shift the transmission into PARK.
 Turn the ignition off.
 Remove the key fob from the vehicle.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 82

STARTING AND OPERATING83
The following indicators should be used to ensure that you
have properly engaged the transmission into the PARK
position:
Look at the transmission gear position display and
verify that it indicates the PARK position (P), and is not
blinking.
 With the 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. The engine may be
started in this range. 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. The DRIVE position provides optimum driving
characteristics under all normal operating conditions.
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.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the
Transmission Temperature Warning Light will illuminate, a
warning message will appear in the instrument cluster,
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 84. Normal operation will resume once the
transmission temperature has risen to a suitable level.

LOW (L)
Use this range for engine braking when descending
very steep grades. In this range, the transmission will
downshift for increased engine braking. To access the
LOW position, push down on the gear selector and rotate
it fully clockwise.
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.
CAUTION!
 Before moving the transmission gear selector out of
PARK, you must start the engine, 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!

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.
If Recreational Towing
Úpage 101.
If Towing A Disabled Vehicle
Úpage 190.
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84STARTING AND OPERATING
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, if possible. If not,
shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.
3. Push and hold the ignition switch until the engine turns off.
4. Wait approximately 30 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 diagnostic 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
engine and/or transmission 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 the vehicle is cold. This is normal. The torque
converter clutch will function normally once the powertrain
is sufficiently warm.
ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION

Your vehicle is equipped with an Active Noise Cancellation
system. This system is designed to address exhaust and engine
noise. The system relies on four microphones embedded in the
headliner, which monitor exhaust and engine noise, and assists
an onboard frequency generator, which creates counteracting
sound waves in the audio system’s speakers. This helps keep
the vehicle quiet at idle and during drive.

POWER STEERING
The electric power steering system will provide increased
vehicle response and ease of maneuverability. The power
steering system adapts to different driving conditions.
If the Steering icon is displayed and the “POWER STEERING
SYSTEM OVER TEMP” message is displayed on the instrument
cluster screen, this indicates an over temperature condition in
the power steering system. Once driving conditions are safe,
pull over and let the vehicle idle for a few moments until the
icon and message turn off


Ú
page 67.
If the “SERVICE POWER STEERING" or "POWER
STEERING ASSIST OFF - SERVICE SYSTEM”
message and a steering wheel icon are displayed
on the instrument cluster screen, it indicates that
the vehicle needs to be taken to an authorized dealer for
service. It is likely the vehicle has lost power steering
assistance

Ú
page 67.

NOTE:
Even if the power steering assistance is no longer oper -
ational, it is still possible to steer the vehicle. Under
these conditions there will be a substantial increase in
steering effort, especially at low speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
 The power steering system is fully electric; it requires
no power steering fluid.
 If the condition persists, see an authorized dealer for
service.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose a
safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be
obtained as soon as possible.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 84

STARTING AND OPERATING85
STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

The Stop/Start function is designed to reduce fuel
consumption. The system will stop the engine automatically
during a vehicle stop if the required conditions are met.
Releasing the brake pedal, pressing the accelerator pedal or
shifting out of DRIVE (D) will automatically re-start the engine.

This vehicle has been upgraded with a heavy-duty starter,
enhanced battery, and other upgraded engine parts to
handle the additional engine starts.
AUTOSTOP MODE
The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every normal
customer engine start. At that time, the system will go into
STOP/START READY and if all other conditions are met,
can go into a STOP/START AUTOSTOP ACTIVE.
To Activate Auto STOP/START, The Following Must Occur:
The system must be in STOP/START READY state.
A STOP/START READY message will be displayed in
the instrument cluster within the Stop/Start section
Úpage 67.
 The vehicle must be completely stopped.
 The gear selector must be in a forward gear and the
brake pedal pressed.
The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to the
zero position and the Stop/Start telltale will illuminate
indicating you are in Autostop. Customer settings will be
maintained throughout the Auto Stop/Start process.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions for Stop/Start and ensure
they are fulfilled. Detailed information about the operation
of the Stop/Start system may be viewed in the instrument
cluster display Stop/Start screen. In the following
situations the engine will not stop:
 If Stop/Start is manually disabled by the Stop/Start
OFF button.
 Driver’s seat belt is not buckled.
 Driver’s door is not closed.
 Battery temperature is too warm or cold.
 Battery charge is low. During this time a message will
display "Stop/Start Not Ready Battery Charging".
 The vehicle is on a steep grade.
 Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an accept -
able cabin temperature has not been achieved.
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower speed.
 HVAC is set to MAX A/C.
 Engine has not reached normal operating temperature.
 The transmission is not in a forward gear.
 Hood is open.
 Brake pedal is not pressed with sufficient pressure.
 Accelerator pedal input. 
Engine temperature is too high.
 5 mph (8 km/h) threshold has not been achieved from
previous Autostop.
 Steering angle is beyond threshold.
It may be possible for the vehicle to be driven several
times without the Stop/Start system going into a
STOP/START READY state under more extreme conditions
of the items previously listed.
TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN AUTO
S
TOP/START
While in a forward gear, the engine will start when the
brake pedal is released or the accelerator pedal is
pressed. The transmission will automatically re-engage
upon engine restart.
Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start
Automatically While In Auto Stop/Start:
 The transmission selector is moved out of DRIVE.
 To maintain cabin temperature comfort.
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode.
 HVAC system temperature or fan speed is manually
adjusted.
 Battery voltage drops too low. During this time a
message will display "Stop/Start Not Ready Battery
Charging".
 Stop/Start OFF switch is pushed.
 A Stop/Start system error occurs.
 Steering angle beyond threshold.
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STARTING AND OPERATING87
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.
NOTE:The vehicle should be traveling at a steady speed and on
level ground before pushing the SET (+) or SET (-) button.
When the vehicle has reached the desired speed, push
the SET (+) or SET (-) button and release. Release the
accelerator and the vehicle will operate at the selected
speed.
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 SET (+) button, or decrease speed by pushing
the SET (-) button. U.S. Speed (mph)

 Pushing the SET (+), 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 in 5 mph increments until the button
is released. The new set speed is reflected in the instru -
ment cluster display.
Metric Speed (km/h)
 Pushing the SET (+), 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 in 10 km/h increments until the
button is released. The new set speed is reflected in
the instrument cluster display.
To Accelerate For Passing
Press the accelerator as you would normally. When the
pedal is released, the vehicle will return to the set speed.
USING CRUISE CONTROL ON HILLS
The transmission may downshift on hills to maintain the
vehicle set speed.
The Cruise Control system maintains speed up and down
hills. A slight speed change on moderate hills is normal.
On steep hills, a greater speed loss or gain may occur so it
may be preferable to drive without Cruise Control.
To Resume Speed
To resume a previously set speed, push the RES button
and release. Resume can be used at any speed above
20 mph (32 km/h).
To Deactivate
A tap on the brake pedal, pushing the CANC button, or
normal brake pressure will deactivate the Cruise Control
system without erasing the set speed from memory.
Pushing the on/off button or placing the ignition in the OFF
position erases the set speed from memory.
PARKSENSE REAR PARK ASSIST —
IF EQUIPPED
The ParkSense Rear Park Assist system provides visual
and audible indications of the distance between the rear
fascia and a detected obstacle when backing up (e.g.
during a parking maneuver). If your vehicle is equipped
with an automatic transmission, the vehicle brakes may
be automatically applied and released when performing a
reverse parking maneuver if the system detects a possible
collision with an obstacle.
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.
WARNING!
Cruise Control can be dangerous where the system
cannot maintain a constant speed. Your vehicle could
go too fast for the conditions, and you could lose control
and have an accident. Do not use Cruise Control in
heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, icy,
snow-covered or slippery.
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STARTING AND OPERATING97
TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)
The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight ratings towable for your given drivetrain.
NOTE:The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and should never exceed the weight referenced on the Tire And Loading Infor -
mation Placard.
VEHICLE LOADING CHART
Follow these steps to determine the total weight the vehicle can carry:

1. Determine the cargo capacity of your vehicle.

Load Capacity = GVWR – Curb (weight of vehicle full fluids NO occupants).
2. Determine occupant count. For calculation purposes, average weight of an occupant is 150 lb (68 kg).
EXAMPLE:
 GVWR = 6,005 lb (2,723 kg)
 CURB = 4,500 lb (2,041 kg)
 Load Capacity = GVWR – CURB = 6,005 lb (2,723 kg) - 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) = 1,505 lb (682 kg)
4 Occupants (at 150 lb [68 kg]) + Max Trailer =
 1,505 lb (682 kg) – 600 lb (272 kg) (4 x 150 lb [68 kg]) – 360 lb (163 kg) (10% of 3,600 lb [1,632 kg]) = 545 lb (247 kg) of cargo in vehicle
Engine/Transmission Trailer Tow Package GCWRFrontal Area Maximum GTW Maximum Trailer TW
3.6L/Automatic Yes
8,600 lb (3,900 kg) 40 sq ft (3.72 sq m) 3,600 lb (1,632 kg) 360 lb (163 kg)
No 6,500 lb (2,948 kg) 40 sq ft (3.72 sq m) 1500 lb (680 kg) 149 lb (67 kg)
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.
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STARTING AND OPERATING99
(Continued)
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on
your fascia/bumper or trailer hitch.

Weight Distribution

Consider the following items when computing the weight
on the rear axle of the vehicle:
The tongue weight of the trailer.
 The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put
in or on your vehicle.
 The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the trailer adds to the
load on your vehicle. Also, additional factory-installed options or
dealer-installed options must be considered as part of the total
load on your vehicle

Ú
page 221.

TOWING REQUIREMENTS
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain
components, the following guidelines are recommended.
Perform the maintenance listed in “Scheduled Servicing”
Úpage 192. When towing a trailer, never exceed the
GAWR or GCWR ratings.
CAUTION!
 Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles
(805 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle
or other parts could be damaged.
 Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that a
trailer is towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h)
and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the
engine and other parts of the vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
WARNING!
Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer
and will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo
that is not fully secured, dynamic load shifts can
occur that may be difficult for the driver to control.
You could lose control of your vehicle and have a
collision.
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not over -
load your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a
loss of control, poor performance or damage to
brakes, axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspen -
sion, 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!
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