2023 JEEP GLADIATOR light

180STARTING AND OPERATING
Setting The Following Distance In ACC
The specified following distance for ACC can be set
by varying the distance setting between four bars
(longest), three bars (long), two bars (medium) and
one bar (short). Using this distance setting and the
vehicle speed, ACC calculates and sets the
distance to the vehicle ahead. This distance
setting displays in the instrument cluster display.

Distance Settings

To increase the distance setting, push the
Distance Increase button and release. Each time
the button is pushed, the distance setting
increases by one bar (longer). To decrease the distance setting, push the
Distance Decrease button and release. Each time
the button is pushed, the distance setting
decreases by one bar (shorter).
If there is no vehicle ahead, the vehicle will
maintain the set speed. If a slower moving vehicle
is detected in the same lane, the instrument
cluster displays the ACC Set with Target Indicator
Light, and the system adjusts vehicle speed
automatically to maintain the distance setting,
regardless of the set speed.
The vehicle will then maintain the set distance
until:
The vehicle ahead accelerates to a speed above
the set speed
The vehicle ahead moves out of your lane or
view of the sensor
The distance setting is changed
The system disengages Ú
page 177
The maximum braking applied by ACC is limited;
however, the driver can always apply the brakes
manually, if necessary.
NOTE:The brake lights will illuminate whenever the ACC
system applies the brakes.
A Proximity Warning will alert the driver if ACC
predicts that its maximum braking level is not
sufficient to maintain the set distance. If this occurs, a visual alert “BRAKE!” will flash in the
instrument cluster display and a chime will sound
while ACC continues to apply its maximum braking
capacity.
NOTE:The “BRAKE!” screen in the instrument cluster
display is a warning for the driver to take action
and does not necessarily mean that the Forward
Collision Warning system is applying the brakes
autonomously.
Overtake Aid
When driving with ACC engaged and following a
vehicle, the system will provide an additional
acceleration up to the ACC set speed to assist in
passing the vehicle. This additional acceleration is
triggered when the driver utilizes the left turn
signal and will only be active when passing on the
left hand side.
ACC Operation At A Stop (Automatic
Transmission Only)
In the event that the ACC system brings your
vehicle to a standstill while following the vehicle in
front, your vehicle will resume motion without the
need for any driver action if the vehicle in front
starts moving within two seconds of your vehicle
coming to a standstill.
If the vehicle in front does not start moving within
two seconds of your vehicle coming to a standstill,
the ACC with Stop system will cancel and the
1 — Longest Distance Setting (Four Bars)
2 — Medium Distance Setting (Two Bars)
3 — Long Distance Setting (Three Bars)
4 — Short Distance Setting (One Bar)

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192STARTING AND OPERATING
3. Fully insert the gasoline nozzle into the filler pipe. Fill the vehicle with fuel.
4. When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the fuel tank is full. Wait five seconds before
removing the fuel nozzle to allow excess fuel to
drain from nozzle.
5. Remove gasoline nozzle, reinstall fuel cap and close the fuel filler door.
NOTE:
When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the
fuel tank is full.
Tighten the fuel filler cap about a quarter turn
until you hear one click. This is an indication that
the cap is properly tightened.
If the fuel filler cap is not tightened properly, the
MIL will come on. Be sure the cap is tightened
every time the vehicle is refueled.
LOOSE FUEL FILLER CAP MESSAGE
After fuel has been added, the vehicle diagnostic
system can determine if the fuel filler cap is
possibly loose, improperly installed, or damaged. If
the system detects a malfunction, the “gASCAP”
message will display in the odometer display.
Tighten the gas cap until a "clicking" sound is heard. This is an indication that the gas cap is
properly tightened. Push the odometer reset
button to turn the message off. If the problem
persists, the message will appear the next time the
vehicle is started. This might indicate a damaged
cap. If the problem is detected twice in a row, the
system will turn on the MIL. Resolving the problem
will turn the MIL off.
REFUELING THE VEHICLE — DIESEL ENGINE
(IF EQUIPPED)
The fuel filler cap is located on the driver's side of
the vehicle. If the fuel filler cap is lost or damaged,
be sure the replacement cap is the correct one for
this vehicle.

1. Open the fuel filler door.

Fuel Filler Door

WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or
near the vehicle when the fuel door is open or
the tank is being filled.
Never add fuel when the engine is running.
This is in violation of most state and federal
fire regulations and may cause the Malfunc -
tion Indicator Light (MIL) to turn on.
A fire may result if fuel is pumped into a
portable container that is inside of a vehicle.
You could be burned. Always place fuel
containers on the ground while filling.
CAUTION!
Damage to the fuel system or emission control
system could result from using an improper
fuel filler cap. A poorly fitting cap could let
impurities into the fuel system. Also, a poorly
fitting aftermarket cap can cause the Malfunc -
tion Indicator Light (MIL) to illuminate, due to
fuel vapors escaping from the system.
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not
“top off” the fuel tank after filling.

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TRAILER HITCH CLASSIFICATION
The following chart provides the industry standard for the maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can tow and should be used to assist you in selecting
the correct trailer hitch for your intended towing condition.
TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)
Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions
Class Max. Trailer Hitch Industry Standards
Class I - Light Duty 2,000 lb (907 kg)
Class II - Medium Duty 3,500 lb (1,587 kg)
Class III - Heavy Duty 6,000 lb (2,722 kg)
Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty 10,000 lb (4,535 kg)
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given drivetrain in
this section.
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.
Model GCWRFrontal Area Maximum GTWMaximum Trailer TW
(See Note)
Sport - Manual Transmission 9,100 lb (4,128 kg) 40 ft2 (3.72 m2)4,000 lb (1,814 kg)
400 lb (181 kg)
Sport - Automatic Transmission 9,650 lb (4,377 kg)
40 ft
2 (3.72 m2)4,500 lb (2,041 kg)
450 lb (204 kg)
Diesel Sport - Automatic Transmission 12,100 lb (5,488 kg)
40 ft
2 (3.72 m2)6,500 lb (2,948 kg)
650 lb (295 kg)
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STARTING AND OPERATING203
Towing Requirements — Tires
Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to
the safe and satisfactory operation of your
vehicle.
Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation
pressures before trailer usage.
Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire
damage before towing a trailer.
Replacing tires with a higher load carrying
capacity will not increase the vehicle's GVWR
and GAWR limits.
For further information Úpage 395.
Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system
or vacuum system of your vehicle with that of
the trailer. This could cause inadequate braking
and possible personal injury.
An electronically actuated trailer brake
controller is required when towing a trailer with
electronically actuated brakes. When towing a
trailer equipped with a hydraulic surge actuated
brake system, an electronic brake controller is
not required.
NOTE:This vehicle has an aftermarket brake controller
connector under the dash to the left of the brake
pedal. This will be a four pin connector and will be
gray in color.
Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers
over 1,000 lb (453 kg) and required for trailers
in excess of 2,000 lb (907 kg).Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And
Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer
size, stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are
required for motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four- and
seven-pin wiring harness. Use a factory approved
trailer harness and connector.
NOTE:Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring
harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to the
vehicle but you must mate the harness to a trailer
connector. Refer to the following illustrations.
NOTE:
Disconnect the trailer wiring connector from the
vehicle (or any other device plugged into
vehicle’s electrical connectors) before
launching a boat into water.
Be sure to reconnect once clear from water
area.
WARNING!
Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's
hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your
brake system and cause it to fail. You might
not have brakes when you need them and
could have an accident.
Towing any trailer will increase your stopping
distance. When towing, you should allow for
additional space between your vehicle and the
vehicle in front of you. Failure to do so could
result in an accident.
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lb (453 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they
should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do
this could lead to accelerated brake lining wear,
higher brake pedal effort, and longer stopping
distances.
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204STARTING AND OPERATING

Four-Pin Connector
Seven-Pin Connector

TOWING TIPS
Before towing, practice turning, stopping and
backing the trailer in an area away from heavy
traffic.
If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer
towing, all starts must be in first gear to avoid
excessive clutch slippage.
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped
Select the DRIVE range when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy to
avoid frequent shifting when towing. However, if
frequent shifting does occur while in DRIVE, you
can use the AutoStick shift control to manually
select a lower gear.
NOTE:Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions, will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat build-up. This
action will also provide better engine braking.
AutoStick — If Equipped
When using the AutoStick shift control, select
the highest gear that allows for adequate perfor -
mance and avoids frequent downshifts. For
example, choose “5” if the desired speed can be
maintained. Choose “4” or “3” if needed to
maintain the desired speed.
To prevent excess heat generation, avoid
continuous driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and
road conditions allow.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
When using the Cruise Control, if you experience
speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h),
disengage until you can get back to cruising
speed.
Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with light
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
1 — Ground
2 — Park
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Right Stop/Turn
1 — Backup Lamps
2 — Running Lamps
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Ground
5 — Battery
6 — Right Stop/Turn
7 — Electric Brakes

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208STARTING AND OPERATING
3. After all bolts and nuts have been removed, pull the side step assembly off of the vehicle.
4. To reinstall the side steps align the studs to the body side holes and fasten all nuts on all four
brackets. Then secure all four bolts to the
underbody. Repeat the reassembly procedure
for the other side.
Bumper End Cap Removal — If Equipped
The end caps on your vehicle’s front bumper can
be removed by following the steps below:
NOTE:Bumper end caps are removable on steel bumpers
only.

1. Loosen the two bolts that retain the GAWR bracket (Bolts #1 and #2) to the end cap
using a T45 Torx bit screw driver. Do not
remove the bolts.

Bolt #1 Bolt #2

2. Remove the remaining eight bolts.
3. Gently remove the end cap from the vehicle and store it where it will not get damaged.
4. Repeat this procedure on the other side.
The Basics Of Off-Road Driving
You will encounter many types of terrain driving
off-road. You should be familiar with the terrain
and area before proceeding. There are many types
of surface conditions: hard-packed dirt, gravel,
rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow and ice. Every
surface has a different effect on your vehicle's
steering, handling and traction. Controlling your
vehicle is one of the keys to successful off-road
driving, so always keep a firm grip on the steering
wheel and maintain a good driving posture. Avoid
sudden accelerations, turns or braking. In most
cases, there are no road signs, posted speed limits or signal lights. Therefore, you will need to use your
own good judgment on what is safe and what is
not. When on a trail, you should always be looking
ahead for surface obstacles and changes in
terrain. The key is to plan your future driving route
while remembering what you are currently driving
over.
NOTE:It is recommended that the Stop/Start system be
disabled during off-road use.
When To Use 4L Range
When off-road driving, shift into 4L for additional
traction and control on slippery or difficult terrain,
ascending or descending steep hills, and to
increase low speed pulling power. This range
should be limited to extreme situations such as
deep snow, mud, steep inclines, or sand where
WARNING!
Always wear your seat belt and firmly tie down
cargo. Unsecured cargo can become projectiles
in an off-road situation.
CAUTION!
Never park your vehicle over dry grass or other
combustible materials. The heat from your
vehicle exhaust system could cause a fire.

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STARTING AND OPERATING209
additional low speed pulling power is needed.
Vehicle speeds in excess of 25 mph (40 km/h)
should be avoided when in 4L range.
Simultaneous Brake And Throttle
Operation
Many off-road driving conditions require the
simultaneous use of the brake and throttle
(two-footed driving). When climbing rocks, logs, or
other stepped objects, using light brake pressure
with light throttle will keep the vehicle from jerking
or lurching. This technique is also used when you
need to stop and restart a vehicle on a steep
incline.
Driving In Snow, Mud And Sand
SNOW
In heavy snow or for additional control and traction
at slower speeds, shift the transmission into a low
gear and the transfer case into 4L if necessary. Do
not shift to a lower gear than necessary to maintain
headway. Over-revving the engine can spin the
wheels and traction will be lost. If you start to slow
to a stop, try turning your steering wheel no more than a quarter turn quickly back and forth, while
still applying throttle. This will allow the tires to get
fresh traction and help maintain your momentum.
MUD
Deep mud creates a great deal of suction around
the tires and is very difficult to get through. You
should use DRIVE, with the transfer case in the 4L
position to maintain your momentum. If you start to
slow to a stop, try turning your steering wheel no
more than a quarter turn quickly back and forth for
additional traction. Mud holes pose an increased
threat of vehicle damage and getting stuck. They
are normally full of debris from previous vehicles
getting stuck. As a good practice before entering
any mud hole, get out and determine how deep it
is, if there are any hidden obstacles and if the
vehicle can be safely recovered if stuck.
SAND
Soft sand is very difficult to travel through with full
tire pressure. When crossing soft, sandy spots in a
trail, maintain your vehicle's momentum and do
not stop. The key to driving in soft sand is using the
appropriate tire pressure, accelerating slowly, avoiding abrupt maneuvers and maintaining the
vehicle's momentum. If you are going to be driving
on large soft sandy areas or dunes, reduce your
tire pressure to a minimum of 15 psi (103 kPa) to
allow for a greater tire surface area. Reduced tire
pressure will drastically improve your traction and
handling while driving on the soft sand, but you
must return the tires to normal air pressure before
driving on pavement or other hard surfaces. Be
sure you have a way to reinflate the tires prior to
reducing the pressure.
Crossing Obstacles (Rocks And Other High
Points)
While driving off-road, you will encounter many
types of terrain. These varying types of terrain bring
different types of obstacles. Before proceeding,
review the path ahead to determine the correct
approach and your ability to safely recover the
vehicle if something goes wrong. Keeping a firm
grip on the steering wheel, bring the vehicle to a
complete stop and then inch the vehicle forward
CAUTION!
Do not use 4L range when operating the vehicle
on dry pavement. Driveline hardware damage
can result.
CAUTION!
On icy or slippery roads, do not downshift at high
engine RPM or vehicle speeds, because engine
braking may cause skidding and loss of control.
CAUTION!
Reduced tire pressures may cause tire
unseating and total loss of air pressure. To
reduce the risk of tire unseating, while at a
reduced tire pressure, reduce your speed and
avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers.
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210STARTING AND OPERATING
until it makes contact with the object. Apply the
throttle lightly while holding a light brake pressure
and ease the vehicle up and over the object.
USING A SPOTTER
There are many times where it is hard to see the
obstacle or determine the correct path.
Determining the correct path can be extremely
difficult when you are confronting many obstacles.
In these cases have someone guide you over,
through, or around the obstacle. Have the person
stand a safe distance in front of you where they
can see the obstacle, watch your tires and
undercarriage, and guide you through.
CROSSING LARGE ROCKS
When approaching large rocks, choose a path
which ensures you drive over the largest of them
with your tires. This will lift your undercarriage over
the obstacle. The tread of the tire is tougher and
thicker than the side wall and is designed to take
the abuse. Always look ahead and make every
effort to cross the large rocks with your tires.
CROSSING A RAVINE, GULLY, DITCH,
WASHOUT OR RUT
When crossing a ravine, gully, ditch, washout or a
large rut, the angled approach is the key to
maintaining your vehicle's mobility. Approach
these obstacles at a 45-degree angle and let each
tire go through the obstacle independently. You
need to use caution when crossing large obstacles
with steep sides. Do not attempt to cross any large
obstacle with steep sides at an angle great enough
to put the vehicle at risk of a rollover. If you get
caught in a rut, dig a small trench to the right or left
at a 45-degree angle ahead of the front tires. Use
the removed dirt to fill the rut ahead of the turnout
you just created. You should now be able to drive
out following the trench you just created at a
45-degree angle.
CROSSING LOGS
To cross a log, approach it at a slight angle
(approximately 10 to 15 degrees). This allows one
front tire to be on top of the log while the other just
starts to climb the log. While climbing the log,
modulate your brake and accelerator to avoid
spinning the log out from under your tires. Then
ease the vehicle off the log using your brakes.
GETTING HIGH-CENTERED
If you get hung up or high-centered on an object,
get out of the vehicle and try to determine what the
vehicle is hung up on, where it is contacting the
underbody and what is the best direction to
recover the vehicle. Depending on what you are in
contact with, jack the vehicle up and place a few
rocks under the tires so the weight is off of the high
point when you let the vehicle down. You can also
try rocking the vehicle or winching the vehicle off
the object.
WARNING!
Crossing obstacles can cause abrupt steering
system loading which could cause you to lose
control of your vehicle.
CAUTION!
Never attempt to straddle a rock that is large
enough to strike your axles or undercarriage.
Never attempt to drive over a rock which is
large enough to contact the door sills.
WARNING!
There is an increased risk of rollover when
crossing an obstacle, at any angle, with steep
sides.
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to cross a log with a greater
diameter than the running ground clearance or
the vehicle will become high-centered.
CAUTION!
Winching or rocking the vehicle off hard objects
increases the risk of underbody damage.

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