2023 RAM 1500 Owners Manual

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL111
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.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will indicate when the ESC
system is Active. The ESC Indicator Light in the
instrument cluster will come on when the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/
RUN position, and when ESC is activated. It should go out
with the engine running. If the ESC Indicator Light comes
on continuously with the engine running, a malfunction
has been detected in the ESC system. If this warning light
remains on after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle
has been driven several miles (kilometers) at speeds
greater than 30 mph (48 km/h), see an authorized dealer
as soon as possible to have the problem diagnosed and
corrected.
 The ESC OFF Indicator Light and the ESC Indicator Light
come on momentarily each time the ignition is placed
in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position.
 The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds
when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop
when ESC becomes inactive.
 This light will come on when the vehicle is in an ESC
event.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light indicates the ESC is off.
Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN or
ACC/ON/RUN, the ESC system will be on, even
if it was turned off previously.
Service LaneSense Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
LaneSense system is not operating and
requires service. Please contact an authorized
dealer.
Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level is less than a quarter tank,
and the Distance to Empty is less than
50 miles, this light will turn on and remain on
until fuel is added.
A single warning chime will sound with Low Fuel Warning.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
windshield washer fluid is low.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator
Warning Light (MIL)
The MIL is a part of an Onboard Diagnostic
System called OBD II that monitors engine and
automatic transmission control systems. This
warning light will illuminate when the ignition is
in the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the bulb
does not come on when turning the ignition switch from
OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition checked promptly.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap,
poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the light after engine
start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on
through several typical driving styles. In most situations,
the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing.
When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to alert
serious conditions that could lead to immediate loss of
power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle
should be serviced by an authorized dealer as soon as
possible if this occurs.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating conditions. This
can cause a fire if you drive slowly or park over
flammable substances such as dry plants, wood,
cardboard, etc. This could result in death or serious
injury to the driver, occupants or others.
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112GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Rear Axle Locker Fault Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to indicate
when a rear axle locker fault has been
detected.
Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
fault in the FCW System. Contact an authorized
dealer for service
Úpage 274.
Service Stop/Start System Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
Stop/Start system is not functioning properly
and service is required. Contact an authorized
dealer for service.
Service 4WD Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to signal a fault
with the 4WD system. If the light stays on or
comes on during driving, it means that the 4WD
system is not functioning properly and that
service is required. We recommend you drive to the
nearest service center and have the vehicle serviced
immediately.
Cruise Control Fault Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate the
Cruise Control System is not functioning
properly and service is required. Contact an
authorized dealer.
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 previously
mentioned, 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.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been
equipped with a TPMS that illuminates a low tire pressure
telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly
underinflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure
telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires
as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper
pressure. Driving on a significantly underinflated tire
causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread
life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping
ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper
tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to
maintain correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has
not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS
low tire pressure telltale.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator Light
(MIL) on could cause damage to the vehicle control
system. It also could affect fuel economy and
driveability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic
converter damage and power loss will soon occur.
Immediate service is required.
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.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL113
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS
malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not
operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is
combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the
system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for
approximately one minute and then remain continuously
illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent
vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When
the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may
not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as
intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of
reasons, including the installation of replacement or
alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the
TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS
malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or
wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or
alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to
function properly.YELLOW INDICATOR LIGHTS
Air Suspension Aerodynamic Height
Indicator Light— If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air
suspension system is set to the Aerodynamic
setting.
Air Suspension Normal Height Indicator
Light— If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air
suspension system is set to the Normal setting
Úpage 134.
Air Suspension Off-Road 1 Indicator
Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air
suspension system is set to the Off-Road 1
setting
Úpage 134.
Air Suspension Off-Road 2 Indicator
Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air
suspension system is set to the Off-Road 2
setting
Úpage 134.
Air Suspension Payload Protection
Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate to indicate
that the maximum payload may have been
exceeded or load leveling cannot be achieved
at its current ride height. Protection mode will
automatically be selected to “protect” the air suspension
system, air suspension adjustment is limited due to
payload.
Air Suspension Ride Height Raising
Indicator Light— If Equipped
This light will blink and alert the driver that the
vehicle is changing to a higher ride height.
Air Suspension Ride Height Lowering
Indicator Light— If Equipped
This light will blink and alert the driver that the
vehicle is changing to a lower ride height.
Cargo Light On Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the
cargo light is activated by pushing the cargo
light button on the headlight switch.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original
equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and
warning have been established for the tire size
equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable system
operation or sensor damage may result when using
replacement equipment that is not of the same size,
type, and/or style. Aftermarket wheels can cause
sensor damage. Using aftermarket tire sealants may
cause the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
sensor to become inoperable. After using an
aftermarket tire sealant it is recommended that you
take your vehicle to an authorized dealer to have your
sensor function checked.
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114GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Off
Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light illuminates to indicate that
Forward Collision Warning is off.
NEUTRAL Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the 4WD power
transfer case is in the NEUTRAL mode and the
front and rear driveshafts are disengaged from
the powertrain.
Rear Axle Lock Indicator Light
This light indicates when the rear axle lock has
been activated.
Entry/Exit Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the vehicle is
automatically lowered from ride height position
downward for easy entry and exit of the vehicle
Úpage 134.
TOW/HAUL Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when TOW/
HAUL mode is selected.
Trailer Merge Assist Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate to indicate
when Trailer Merge Assist has been activated
Úpage 269.
4WD Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in
the four-wheel drive mode, and the front and
rear driveshafts are mechanically locked
together forcing the front and rear wheels to
rotate at the same speed.
4WD Low Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in
the 4WD Low mode. The front and rear
driveshafts are mechanically locked together
forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at
the same speed. Low range provides a greater gear
reduction ratio to provide increased torque at the wheels
Úpage 130.
4WD High Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in
the 4WD High mode. The front and rear
driveshafts are mechanically locked together
forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at
the same speed.
GREEN INDICATOR LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With
Target Indicator Light — If Equipped
This will display when the ACC is set and a
vehicle in front is detected Úpage 145.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With
No Target Detected Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This light will turn on when the ACC is SET and
there is no vehicle in front detected
Úpage 145.
ECO Mode Indicator Light
This light will turn on when ECO mode is active.
Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the
front fog lights are on.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL115
LaneSense Indicator Light — If Equipped
The LaneSense indicator light illuminates solid
green when both lane markings have been
detected and the system is “armed” and ready
to provide visual and torque warnings if an
unintentional lane departure occurs
Úpage 161.
Parking/Headlights On Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the
parking lights or headlights are turned on.
Turn Signal Indicator Lights
When the left or right turn signal is activated,
the turn signal indicator will flash
independently and the corresponding exterior
turn signal lamps will flash. Turn signals can be
activated when the multifunction lever is moved down
(left) or up (right).
NOTE:
 A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is driven
more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either turn signal on.
 Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if either indi -
cator flashes at a rapid rate.
 If equipped with fog lamps, the fog lamp on the side of
the activated turn signal will also illuminate to provide
additional light when turning.
Cruise Control SET Indicator Light —
If Equipped With Premium Instrument
Cluster Display
This light will turn on when the cruise control is
set Úpage 143.
Stop/Start Active Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the
Stop/Start function is in “Autostop” mode
Úpage 141.
4WD AUTO Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in
the four-wheel drive auto mode, and the front
axle is engaged, but the vehicle's power is sent
to the rear wheels. Four-wheel drive will be
automatically engaged when the vehicle senses a loss of
traction
Úpage 130.
WHITE INDICATOR LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Ready
Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the vehicle
equipped with ACC has been turned on but not
set
Úpage 145.
Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the
cruise control is ready, but not set Úpage 143.
Selec-Speed Control (SSC) Indicator
Light — If Equipped
This indicator shows when the SSC feature is
turned on. The light will be on solid when SSC is
armed. SSC can only be armed when the
transfer case is in the “4WD Low” position and
the vehicle speed is less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If these conditions are not met while attempting to use the SSC
feature, the SSC indicator light will flash on/off.
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116GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
LaneSense Indicator Light — If Equipped
When the LaneSense system is ON, but not
armed, the LaneSense indicator light
illuminates solid white. This occurs when only
left, right, or neither lane line has been
detected. If a single lane line is detected, the system is
ready to provide only visual warnings if an unintentional
lane departure occurs on the detected lane line
Úpage 161.
Cruise Control SET Indicator Light —
If Equipped With Base/Midline Instrument
Cluster Display
This light will turn on when the cruise control is
set Úpage 143.
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 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 191.
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.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL117
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 (MIL) is functioning
and is not on when the engine is running, and
that the OBD II system is ready for testing.
Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The OBD II
system may not be ready if your vehicle was recently
serviced, recently had a depleted battery or a battery
replacement. If the OBD II system should be determined
not ready for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test. Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated test, which you
can use prior to going to the test station. To check if your
vehicle's OBD II system is ready, you must do the following:

1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, but do
not crank or start the engine.

NOTE:If you crank or start the engine, you will have to start this
test over.
2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, you will see the Malfunction Indicator Light
(MIL) symbol come on as part of a normal bulb check.
3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will happen:
 The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds and then
return to being fully illuminated until you turn OFF
the ignition or start the engine. This means that
your vehicle's OBD II system is not ready and you
should not proceed to the I/M station.
 The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully illu -
minated until you place the ignition in the off posi -
tion or start the engine. This means that your
vehicle's OBD II system is ready and you can
proceed to the I/M station. If your OBD II system is
not ready, you should see an
authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle was
recently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement,
you may need to do nothing more than drive your vehicle
as you normally would in order for your OBD II system to
update. A recheck with the approved test routine may then
indicate that the system is now ready.
Regardless of whether your vehicle's OBD II system is
ready or not, if the MIL is illuminated during normal vehicle
operation you should have your vehicle serviced before
going to the I/M station. The I/M station can fail your
vehicle because the MIL is on with the engine running.
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118
(Continued)
STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING THE ENGINE
Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, adjust both
inside and outside mirrors, and fasten your seat belt.
The starter should not be operated for more than
10-second intervals. Waiting at least 10 to 15 seconds
between such intervals will protect the starter from
overheating.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Start the engine with the transmission in PARK position.
Apply the brake before shifting into any driving range.
NOTE:
This vehicle is equipped with a transmission shift inter -
locking system. The brake pedal must be pressed to
shift out of PARK.
 If equipped with an 8-speed transmission, starting the
vehicle in NEUTRAL is not possible unless the Manual
Park Release has been activated
Úpage 328.
TIP START FEATURE
Do not press the accelerator. Cycle the ignition switch
briefly to the START position and release it. The starter
motor will continue to run and will automatically
disengage when the engine is running.
KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ — IGNITION
This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition
switch with the push of a button, as long as the Remote
Start/Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ key fob is in the passenger
compartment.
NORMAL STARTING USING ENGINE
START/STOP B
UTTON
To Turn On The Engine Using The ENGINE START/STOP
Button

1. The transmission must be in PARK.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal while pushing the
ENGINE START/STOP button once.
3. The system starts the vehicle. If the vehicle fails to start, the starter will disengage automatically after
10 seconds.
4. If you wish to stop the cranking of the engine prior to the engine starting, push the button again.WARNING!
When leaving the vehicle, always make sure the
keyless ignition node 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 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
the ignition of 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.
Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehi -
cles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause
serious injury or death.
WARNING!

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