2023 JEEP CHEROKEE ECU

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE55
OPENING AND CLOSING THE SUNROOF
The sunroof has two programmed open positions: comfort
stop position and full open position. The comfort stop
position is set to minimize wind buffeting when driving
with side windows closed and sunroof open. If the
sunshade is closed when initiating a sunroof open or vent
command, the sunshade will automatically open to the
half open position prior to the sunroof opening.
Express Open/Close
Push the switch rearward to open and release it within one
second, the sunroof will open to the comfort stop position
and automatically stop. Push the switch rearward and
release it again, the sunroof will open to the full open
position and automatically stop. This is called Express
Open.
Push the switch forward to close and release it within one
second and the sunroof will close automatically from any
position. The sunroof will close fully and stop
automatically. This is called Express Close. During Express Open or Express Close operation, any
movement of the sunshade switch will stop the shade.
Manual Open/Close
Push and hold the switch rearward to open. The sunroof
will open to the comfort stop position and automatically
stop. Push the switch rearward and hold it again, the
sunroof will open to the full open position and
automatically stop.
To close the sunroof, push and hold the switch in the
forward position.
Any release of the switch during open or close operation
will stop the sunroof movement. The sunroof will remain in
a partially opened position until the switch is operated and
held again.OPENING AND CLOSING THE POWER
S
HADE
The sunshade has two programmed open positions: half
open and full open. When opening the sunshade from the
closed position the sunshade will always stop at the half
open position regardless of express or manual open
operation. The switch must be actuated again to continue
on to full open position.
If the sunroof is open or vented the sunshade cannot be
closed beyond the half open position. Pushing the
sunshade close switch when the sunroof is open/vented
and the sunshade is at half open position will first
automatically close sunroof prior to the sunshade closing. Express Open/Close
Push the sunshade switch rearward to open and release it
within one second, the sunshade will open to the half open
position and stop automatically. Push and release the
switch again from the half open position and the
sunshade will open to the full open position and stop
automatically. This is called Express Open.
Push the sunshade switch forward to close and release it
within one second. If the sunroof is in closed position the
sunshade will full close automatically from any position. If
the sunroof is open or vented the sunshade will close to
the half open position and stop; push and release the
sunshade switch forward again to automatically close
both the sunroof and sunshade completely. This is called
Express Close.
During Express Open or Express Close operation, any
movement of the sunshade switch will stop the shade.
Manual Open/Close
Push and hold the sunshade switch rearward to open. The
shade will open to the half open position and stop
automatically. Push and hold the sunshade switch
rearward again and the shade will open automatically to
the full open position.
Push and hold the sunshade switch forward to close. If the
sunroof is in closed position the sunshade will full close
from any position. If the sunroof is open or vented the
sunshade will close to the half open position and stop;
pushing and holding the sunshade switch forward again
will close both the sunroof and sunshade completely.
Any release of the switch will stop the movement and the
sunshade will remain in a partially opened position until
the switch is pushed again.

In a collision, there is a greater risk of being thrown
from a vehicle with an open sunroof. You could also
be seriously injured or killed. Always fasten your seat
belt properly and make sure all passengers are also
properly secured.
 Do not allow small children to operate the sunroof.
Never allow your fingers, other body parts, or any
object, to project through the sunroof opening. Injury
may result.
WARNING!
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56GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
PINCH PROTECT FEATURE
This feature will detect an obstruction in the closing of the
sunroof during the Express Close operation. If an
obstruction in the path of the sunroof is detected, the
sunroof will automatically retract. Remove the obstruction
if this occurs.
NOTE:If three consecutive sunroof close attempts result in Pinch
Protect reversals, Pinch Protect will disable and the
sunroof must be closed in Manual Mode.
VENTING SUNROOF
Push and release the Vent switch within one-half second
and the sunroof will open to the vent position. This is
called “Express Vent”, and it will occur regardless of
sunroof position. During Express Vent operation, any
movement of the switch will stop the sunroof.
IGNITION OFF OPERATION
The power sunroof switch will remain active for up to
approximately 10 minutes after the ignition switch is
placed in the OFF position. Opening either front door will
cancel this feature.
NOTE:Ignition Off timing is programmable through the Uconnect
system Úpage 126.
SUNROOF MAINTENANCE
Use only a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to clean
the glass panel. Periodically check for and clear out any
debris that may have collected in the tracks.
HOOD
OPENING THE HOOD
Two latches must be released to open the hood.

1. Pull the hood release lever located under the
driver’s side of the instrument panel.

Hood Release

2. Move to the outside of the vehicle and pull the safety latch release lever forward (toward you). The safety
latch release lever is located behind the front edge of
the hood, slightly off-center to the right.

Hood Safety Latch Release Lever Location

NOTE:
 Vehicle must be at a stop and the gear selector must
be in PARK.
 While lifting the hood, use both hands.
 Before lifting the hood, check that the wiper arms are
not in motion and not in the lifted position.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE59
There are pinch sensors attached to the side of the lift -
gate opening. Light pressure anywhere along these
strips will cause the liftgate to return to the open posi -
tion.
 If the power liftgate encounters multiple obstructions
within the same cycle, the system will automatically
stop. If this occurs, the liftgate must be operated manu -
ally.
 The power liftgate will release, but not power open, in
temperatures below −12°F (−24°C). Be sure to
remove any buildup of snow or ice from the liftgate
before opening the liftgate.
 If the liftgate is left open for an extended period of time,
the liftgate may need to be closed manually to reset
power liftgate functionality.
Gas props support the liftgate in the open position.
However, because the gas pressure drops with
temperature, it may be necessary to assist the props when
opening the liftgate in cold weather.NOTE:Allow the power system to open the liftgate. Manually
pushing or pulling the liftgate may activate the liftgate
obstacle detection feature and stop the power operation
or reverse its direction.
CARGO AREA FEATURES
Cargo Load Floor
The cargo load floor system has a load capacity of 300 lb
(136 kg).
To provide additional storage area, each rear seat can be
folded flat. This allows for extended cargo space and still
maintains some rear seating room
Úpage 28.
Cargo Tie-Down Hooks And Loops
The tie-downs located on the cargo area floor should be
used to secure loads safely when the vehicle is moving.
Cargo tie-down loops are located on the trim panels.
WARNING!
 Driving with the liftgate open can allow poisonous
exhaust gases into your vehicle. You and your
passengers could be injured by these fumes. Keep
the liftgate closed when you are operating the
vehicle.
 If you are required to drive with the liftgate open,
make sure that all windows are closed, and the
climate control blower switch is set at high speed. Do
not use the recirculation mode.
WARNING!
During power operation, personal injury or cargo
damage may occur. Ensure the liftgate travel path is
clear. Make sure the liftgate is closed and latched
before driving away.
WARNING!
Cargo tie-downs are not safe anchors for a child seat
tether strap. In a sudden stop or accident, a tie-down
could pull loose and allow the child seat to come
loose. A child could be badly injured. Use only the
anchors provided for child seat tethers.
 To help protect against personal injury, passengers
should not be seated in the rear cargo area. The rear
cargo space is intended for load carrying purposes
only, not for passengers, who should sit in seats and
use seat belts.
The weight and position of cargo and passengers can
change the vehicle center of gravity and vehicle
handling. To avoid loss of control resulting in personal
injury, follow these guidelines for loading your vehicle:
 Do not carry loads that exceed the load limits
described on the label attached to the left door or left
door center pillar.
 Always place cargo evenly on the cargo floor. Put
heavier objects as low and as far forward as possible.
 Place as much cargo as possible in front of the rear
axle. Too much weight or improperly placed weight
over or behind the rear axle can cause the vehicle to
sway.
 Do not pile luggage or cargo higher than the top of
the seatback. This could impair visibility or become a
dangerous projectile in a sudden stop or accident.
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60GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
(Continued)
Rear Storage Bins
The rear storage bins are located in the rear of the vehicle
on the sides of the load floor.
ROOF LUGGAGE RACK — IF EQUIPPED
The load carried on the roof, when equipped with a
luggage rack, must not exceed 150 lb (68 kg), and it
should be uniformly distributed over the cargo area.
Crossbars should always be used whenever cargo is
placed on the roof rack. Check the straps frequently to be
sure that the load remains securely attached.
NOTE:Crossbars can be purchased at an authorized dealer
through Mopar® parts.
External racks do not increase the total load carrying
capacity of the vehicle. Be sure that the total occupant
and luggage load inside the vehicle, plus the load on the
luggage rack, does not exceed the maximum vehicle load
capacity.
WARNING!
Cargo must be securely tied down before driving your
vehicle. Improperly secured loads can fly off the vehicle,
particularly at high speeds, resulting in personal injury
or property damage. Follow the roof rack cautions when
carrying cargo on your roof rack.
CAUTION!
To avoid damage to the roof rack and vehicle, do not
exceed the maximum roof rack load capacity. Always
distribute heavy loads as evenly as possible and
secure the load appropriately.
 Long loads, which extend over the windshield, should
be secured to both the front and rear of the vehicle.
Place a blanket or other protection between the
surface of the roof and the load.
 Travel at reduced speeds and turn corners carefully
when carrying large or heavy loads on the roof rack.
Wind forces, due to natural causes or nearby truck
traffic, can add sudden upward lift to a load. It is
recommended to not carry large flat loads, such as
wood panels or surfboards, which may result in
damage to the cargo or your vehicle.
 Loads should always be secured to crossbars first,
with tie down loops used as additional securing
points if needed. Tie loops are intended as supple -
mentary tie down points only. Do not use ratcheting
mechanisms with the tie loops. Check the straps
frequently to be sure that the load remains securely
attached.
CAUTION!

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68GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
After a trip:
Check if any aftermarket equipment was installed
(additional lights, upfitter electrical accessories, audio
systems, alarms) and review specifications if any (load
and Ignition Off Draw currents).
 Evaluate the latest driving cycles (distance, driving
time and parking time).
 The vehicle should have service performed if the
message is still present during consecutive trips and
the evaluation of the vehicle and driving pattern did not
help to identify the cause.
WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES
The warning/indicator lights will illuminate in the
instrument panel together with a dedicated message and/
or acoustic signal when applicable. These indications are
indicative and precautionary and as such must not be
considered as exhaustive. Always refer to the information
in this chapter in the event of a failure indication. All active
telltales will display first if applicable. The system check
menu may appear different based upon equipment
options and current vehicle status. Some telltales are
optional and may not appear.
RED WARNING LIGHTS
Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light
This warning light indicates when the driver or
passenger seat belt is unbuckled. When the
ignition is first placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/
ON/RUN position and if the driver’s seat belt is
unbuckled, a chime will sound and the light will turn on.
When driving, if the driver or front passenger seat belt remains unbuckled, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will flash
or remain on continuously and a chime will sound
Úpage 159.
Air Bag Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
fault with the air bag, and will turn on for four to
eight seconds as a bulb check when the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/
RUN position. This light will illuminate with a single chime
when a fault with the air bag has been detected, it will stay
on until the fault is cleared. If the light is either not on
during startup, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the
system inspected at an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
Brake Warning Light
This warning light monitors various brake
functions, including brake fluid level and
parking brake application. If the brake light
turns on it may indicate that the parking brake
is applied, that the brake fluid level is low, or that there is
a problem with the Anti-Lock Brake System reservoir.
If the light remains on when the parking brake has been
disengaged, and the fluid level is at the full mark on the
master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a possible brake
hydraulic system malfunction or that a problem with the
Brake Booster has been detected by the Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.
In this case, the light will remain on until the condition has
been corrected. If the problem is related to the brake
booster, the ABS pump will run when applying the brake,
and a brake pedal pulsation may be felt during each stop. The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capacity
in the event of a failure to a portion of the hydraulic
system. A leak in either half of the dual brake system is
indicated by the Brake Warning Light, which will turn on
when the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has
dropped below a specified level.
The light will remain on until the cause is corrected.
NOTE:The light may flash momentarily during sharp cornering
maneuvers, which change fluid level conditions. The
vehicle should have service performed, and the brake
fluid level checked.
If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is necessary.
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning
Light will turn on along with the ABS Light. Immediate
repair to the ABS system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by
turning the ignition switch from the OFF position to the
ON/RUN position. The light should illuminate for
approximately two seconds. The light should then turn off
unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is
detected. If the light does not illuminate, have the light
inspected by an authorized dealer.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is
dangerous. Part of the brake system may have failed. It
will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have a
collision. Have the vehicle checked immediately.

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70GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
light turns on while driving, pull the vehicle to the side of
the road at a safe location, stop the vehicle, shut off the
engine as soon as possible, check the oil level and correct
the oil level if it is low. Contact an authorized dealer.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected.
This light may or may not indicate how much oil is in the
engine. If the oil level is low and corrected, the engine can
be restarted. Otherwise the vehicle should be serviced by
an authorized dealer
Úpage 208.
NOTE:The light may flash, a message in the center of the dash
may display momentarily “low oil pressure” and a chime
may occur during sharp cornering maneuvers. If this
happen it may indicate a low oil level. The oil level should
be checked and dealer service performed if this occurs.
Oil Temperature Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate the
engine oil temperature is high. If the light turns
on while driving, stop the vehicle and shut off
the engine as soon as possible. Wait for oil
temperature to return to normal levels.
Transmission Temperature Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to warn of a
high transmission fluid temperature. This may
occur with strenuous usage such as trailer
towing. If this light turns on, stop the vehicle
and run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the
transmission in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), until the light
turns off. Once the light turns off, you may continue to
drive normally.
Vehicle Security Warning Light —
If Equipped
This light will flash at a fast rate for
approximately 15 seconds when the Vehicle
Security System is arming, and then will flash
slowly until the vehicle is disarmed.
YELLOW WARNING LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Fault
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
fault in the ACC system. Contact a local
authorized dealer for service
Úpage 92.
Electric Park Brake Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate the
Electric Park Brake is not functioning properly
and service is required. Contact an authorized
dealer.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning
Light
This warning light monitors the ABS. The light
will turn on when the ignition is placed in the
ON/RUN or ACC/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 as soon as possible.
However, the conventional brake system will continue to
operate normally, assuming the Brake Warning Light is
also not on.
If the ABS light does not turn on when the ignition is placed
in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position, have the brake
system inspected by an authorized dealer.CAUTION!
If the vehicle is driven with low oil levels severe engine
damage can occur. Have the vehicle checked
immediately.
WARNING!
If you continue operating the vehicle when the
Transmission Temperature Warning Light is illuminated
you could cause the fluid to boil over, come in contact
with hot engine or exhaust components and cause a
fire.
CAUTION!
Continuous driving with the Transmission Temperature
Warning Light illuminated will eventually cause severe
transmission damage or transmission failure.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL75
(Continued)
Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light
This light will turn on when the Cruise Control
has been turned on, but not set Úpage 90.
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.
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.
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM
(OBD II) C
YBERSECURITY
Your vehicle is required to have an OBD II and a
connection port to allow access to information related to
the performance of your emissions controls. Authorized
service technicians may need to access this information to
assist with the diagnosis and service of your vehicle and
emissions system
Úpage 126.
EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND
MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS
In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an
inspection of your vehicle's emissions control system.
Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.
For states that require an Inspection and
Maintenance (I/M), this check verifies the
Malfunction Indicator Light is functioning and is
not on when the engine is running, and that the
OBD II system is ready for testing.
The OBD ll system may not be ready if your vehicle was
recently serviced, recently had a depleted battery or a
battery replacement. If the OBD ll system should be
determined not ready for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail
the test.
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.
WARNING!
ONLY an authorized service technician should
connect equipment to the OBD II connection port in
order to read the VIN, diagnose, or service your
vehicle.
 If unauthorized equipment is connected to the OBD II
connection port, such as a driver-behavior tracking
device, it may:
 Be possible that vehicle systems, including
safety related systems, could be impaired or a
loss of vehicle control could occur that may
result in an accident involving serious injury or
death.
 Access, or allow others to access, information
stored in your vehicle systems, including
personal information.
WARNING!
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STARTING AND OPERATING79
(Continued)

EPB Switch

To apply the parking brake manually, pull up on the EPB
switch momentarily. You may hear a sound from the back
of the vehicle while the parking brake engages. Once the
parking brake is fully engaged, the red Brake Warning
Light in the instrument cluster and an indicator on the
switch will illuminate. If your foot is on the brake pedal
while you apply the parking brake, you may notice a small
amount of brake pedal movement. The parking brake can
be applied even when the ignition switch is OFF but the
Brake Warning Light will not illuminate. The parking brake
can only be released when the ignition is in the ON/RUN
position.
NOTE:The EPB Warning Light will illuminate if the EPB switch is
held for longer than 90 seconds in either the released or
applied position. The light will extinguish upon releasing
the switch.
If the Auto Park Brake feature is enabled, the parking
brake will automatically engage whenever the
transmission is placed into PARK, while the ignition is turned OFF. If your foot is on the brake pedal, you may
notice a small amount of brake pedal movement while the
parking brake is engaging.
The parking brake will release automatically when the
ignition is ON, the transmission is in DRIVE (D) or REVERSE
(R) and the driver seat belt is buckled.
To release the parking brake manually, the ignition switch
must be in the ON/RUN position. Put your foot on the
brake pedal, then push the EPB switch down momentarily.
You may hear a sound from the back of the vehicle while
the parking brake disengages. You may also notice a small
amount of movement in the brake pedal. Once the parking
brake is fully disengaged, the Brake Warning Light in the
instrument cluster and the LED indicator on the switch will
extinguish.
NOTE: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. 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.
WARNING!

Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the
parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully
when parked to guard against vehicle movement and
possible injury or damage.
 When exiting the vehicle, always turn the ignition off,
secure the key fob and lock your 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 seri -
ously or fatally injured. Children should be warned
not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the
gear selector.
 Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle, or in
a location accessible to children, and do not leave a
vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ in the
ACC or ON/RUN position. A child could operate power
windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
 Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged before
driving; failure to do so can lead to brake failure and
a collision.
 Always fully apply the parking brake when leaving
your vehicle, or it may roll and cause damage or
injury. Also be certain to leave the transmission in
PARK. Failure to do so may allow the vehicle to roll
and cause damage or injury.
CAUTION!
If the Brake System Warning Light remains on with the
parking brake released, a brake system malfunction is
indicated. Have the brake system serviced by an
authorized dealer immediately.
WARNING!
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