2023 RAM 1500 four wheel drive

STARTING AND OPERATING179
(Continued)
Some trailers (such as boat trailers) will need to
recalibrate while loaded and unloaded.
NOTE:

The system may not detect a trailer in low light condi -
tions. In sunny conditions, the performance may be
degraded as shadows pass over the trailer.
 The driver is always responsible for safe operation of
truck and trailer.
 The driver is always in control of the truck as well as the
trailer and is responsible for controlling the throttle and
brakes.
 The system may not function when the camera lens is
blocked, blurred (covered with water, snow, ice, dirt,
etc) and will not work unless the tailgate is upright and
fully latched.
TOWING REQUIREMENTS
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain
components, the following guidelines are recommended. Perform the maintenance listed in the Scheduled
Servicing section for the proper maintenance intervals
Úpage 333. When towing a trailer, never exceed the
GAWR or GCWR ratings.
Towing Requirements — Tires
 Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact
spare tire.
 Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when towing
while using a full size spare tire.
 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 370.
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!
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 179

186STARTING AND OPERATING
RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME)
TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE
NOTE:
When towing your vehicle, always follow applicable
state and provincial laws. Contact state and provincial
Highway Safety offices for additional details.
 Vehicles equipped with Active-Level Four Corner Air
Suspension must be placed in Transport mode before
tying them down (from the body) on a trailer or flatbed
truck
Úpage 134. If the vehicle cannot be placed in
Transport mode (for example, engine will not run),
tie-downs must be fastened to the axles (not to the
body). Failure to follow these instructions may cause
fault codes to be set and/or cause loss of proper
tie-down tension.
RECREATIONAL TOWING — TWO-WHEEL
D
RIVE MODELS
DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the drivetrain will
result.
Recreational towing (for two-wheel drive models) is
allowed ONLY if the rear wheels are OFF the ground.
This may be accomplished using a tow dolly or vehicle
trailer. If using a tow dolly, follow this procedure:
NOTE:If vehicle is equipped with air suspension, ensure the
vehicle is set to Normal Ride Height.

1. Properly secure the dolly to the tow vehicle, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.

2. Drive the rear wheels onto the tow dolly. 3. Apply the parking brake. Place the transmission
in PARK.
4. Properly secure the rear wheels to the dolly, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.
5. Turn the ignition OFF.
6. Install a suitable clamping device, designed for towing, to secure the front wheels in the straight
position.
Towing Condition Wheels OFF The Ground Two-Wheel Drive Models Four-Wheel Drive Models
Flat TowNONENOT ALLOWED See Instructions
 Transmission in PARK
 Transfer case in N (Neutral)
 Tow in forward direction
Dolly Tow Front
NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED
Rear OK NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer ALLOK OK
CAUTION!
Towing with the rear wheels on the ground will cause
severe transmission damage. Damage from improper
towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 186

STARTING AND OPERATING187
(Continued)
RECREATIONAL TOWING —
F
OUR-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
NOTE:The transfer case must be shifted into N (Neutral) for
recreational towing. The transmission must be shifted into
PARK for recreational towing. Refer to the following for the
proper transfer case N (Neutral) shifting procedure for
your vehicle.
Shifting Into N (Neutral)
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for
recreational towing.
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on level ground,
with the engine running. Apply the parking brake.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal.
3. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL. The driver's door must be closed (or the driver's seat belt buckled) so
that the transmission will remain in NEUTRAL when
the brake pedal is released.
NOTE:If vehicle is equipped with air suspension, ensure the
vehicle is set to Normal Ride Height.
4. Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, push and hold the recessed transfer case N (Neutral) button (at the
center of the transfer case switches). The N (Neutral)
indicator light will illuminate, and remain lit, when the
shift to N (Neutral) is complete. After the shift is
completed and the N (Neutral) light stays on, release
the N (Neutral) button.
CAUTION!
DO NOT dolly tow any 4WD vehicle. Towing with only
one set of wheels on the ground (front or rear) will
cause severe transmission and/or transfer case
damage. Tow with all four wheels either ON the
ground, or OFF the ground (using a vehicle trailer).
 Tow only in the forward direction. Towing this vehicle
backwards can cause severe damage to the transfer
case.
 Before recreational towing, the transfer case must
be in N (Neutral). To be certain the transfer case is
fully in N (Neutral), perform the procedure outlined
under “Shifting Into N (Neutral)”. Internal transmis -
sion damage will result, if the transfer case is not in
N (Neutral) during towing.
 The transmission must be in PARK for recreational
towing.
 Ensure that the Electric Park Brake is released, and
remains released, while being towed.
Towing this vehicle in violation of the above require -
ments can cause severe transmission and/or
transfer case damage. Damage from improper
towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
 Do not disconnect the rear driveshaft because fluid
will leak from the transfer case, causing damage to
internal parts.
 Do not use a fascia/bumper-mounted clamp-on tow
bar on your vehicle. The fascia/bumper face bar will
be damaged.
WARNING!
You or others could be injured or killed if you leave the
vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the N
(Neutral) position without first fully engaging the
parking brake. The transfer case N (Neutral) position
disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the
powertrain and will allow the vehicle to roll, even if the
transmission is in PARK. The parking brake should
always be applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.
CAUTION!CAUTION!
It is necessary to follow these steps to be certain that
the transfer case is fully in N (Neutral) before
recreational towing to prevent damage to internal parts.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 187

262
(Continued)
SAFETY
SAFETY FEATURES
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)
The ABS provides increased vehicle stability and brake
performance under most braking conditions. The system
automatically prevents wheel lock and enhances vehicle
control during braking.
The ABS performs a self-check cycle to ensure that the
ABS is working properly each time the vehicle is started
and driven. During this self-check, you may hear a slight
clicking sound as well as some related motor noises.
The ABS is activated during braking when the system
detects one or more wheels are beginning to lock. Road
conditions such as ice, snow, gravel, bumps, railroad
tracks, loose debris, or panic stops may increase the
likelihood of ABS activation(s).
You also may experience the following normal
characteristics when the ABS activates:
ABS motor noise or clicking sounds (you may continue
to hear for a short time after the stop)
 Brake pedal pulsations
 A slight drop of the brake pedal at the end of the stop The ABS is designed to function with the Original
Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) tires. Modification may
result in degraded ABS performance.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning
Light
The yellow ABS Warning Light will turn on when the ignition
is placed in the ON/RUN mode and may stay on for as long
as four seconds.
If the ABS Warning Light remains on or comes on while
driving, it indicates that the anti-lock portion of the brake
system is not functioning and that service is required.
However, the conventional brake system will continue to
operate normally if the ABS Warning Light is on.
If the ABS Warning Light is on, the brake system should be
serviced as soon as possible to restore the benefits of
Anti-Lock Brakes. If the ABS Warning Light does not come
on when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN mode, have
the light repaired as soon as possible.
WARNING!

The ABS contains sophisticated electronic equip -
ment that may be susceptible to interference caused
by improperly installed or high output radio transmit -
ting equipment. This interference can cause possible
loss of anti-lock braking capability. Installation of
such equipment should be performed by qualified
professionals.
 Pumping of the Anti-Lock Brakes will diminish their
effectiveness and may lead to a collision. Pumping
makes the stopping distance longer. Just press firmly
on your brake pedal when you need to slow down or
stop.
 The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics
from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase
braking or steering efficiency beyond that afforded
by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the
traction afforded.
The ABS cannot prevent collisions, including those
resulting from excessive speed in turns, following
another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning.
 The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner that could jeopardize the user’s safety or the
safety of others.
WARNING!

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 262

SAFETY263
REAR SEAT REMINDER ALERT (RSRA)
RSRA alerts of the possible presence of an object,
passenger, or pet in the rear seats through a visual and
auditory notification. When the system is activated, it
displays the message “Check Rear Seat” on the
instrument cluster display and sounds an auditory alert
upon the driver placing the ignition in the OFF position to
exit the vehicle. The system will activate automatically if a
rear door is opened within 10 minutes of the ignition being
placed in the ON/RUN position. RSRA should be used as a
reminder to check the rear seats, it does not directly
detect objects, passengers, or pets and is only activated
when the previous conditions are met.
To enable or disable RSRA, see
Úpage 191.
ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL (EBC)
S
YSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced Electronic
Brake Control (EBC) system. This system includes
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS),
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Roll
Mitigation (ERM), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill
Start Assist (HSA), and Traction Control System (TCS).
These systems work together to enhance both vehicle
stability and control in various driving conditions.
Your vehicle may also be equipped with Trailer Sway
Control (TSC) and Hill Descent Control (HDC).
Brake Assist System (BAS)
The BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s braking
capability during emergency braking maneuvers. The
system detects an emergency braking situation by sensing
the rate and amount of brake application, and then
applies optimum pressure to the brakes. This can help
reduce braking distances. The BAS complements the
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). Applying the brakes very
quickly results in the best BAS assistance. To receive the
benefit of the system, you must apply continuous braking
pressure during the stopping sequence (do not “pump”
the brakes). Do not reduce brake pedal pressure unless
braking is no longer desired. Once the brake pedal is
released, the BAS is deactivated.
Brake System Warning Light
The red Brake System Warning Light will turn on when the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN mode and may stay on for
as long as four seconds.
If the Brake System Warning Light remains on or comes on
while driving, it indicates that the brake system is not
functioning properly and that immediate service is
required. If the Brake System Warning Light does not
come on when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN mode,
have the light repaired as soon as possible.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
EBD manages the distribution of the braking torque
between the front and rear axles by limiting braking
pressure to the rear axle. This is done to prevent overslip
of the rear wheels to avoid vehicle instability, and to
prevent the rear axle from entering the Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS) before the front axle.
WARNING!
 Before exiting a vehicle, always come to a complete
stop, then shift the automatic transmission into
PARK and apply the parking brake.
 Always make sure the keyless ignition node is in the
OFF position, key fob is removed from the vehicle
and vehicle is locked.
 Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with
access to an unlocked vehicle. Leaving children 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 gear selector.
 Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehi -
cles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause
serious injury or death.
WARNING!
The Brake Assist System (BAS) cannot prevent the
natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing road
conditions. BAS cannot prevent collisions, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving
on very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. The
capabilities of a BAS-equipped vehicle must never be
exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner, which
could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of
others.
6

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 263

SAFETY277
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM
(TPMS)
TPMS will warn the driver of a low tire pressure based on
the vehicle recommended cold placard pressure.
NOTE:The TPMS Warning Light will illuminate in the instrument
cluster and a chime will sound when tire pressure is low in
one or more of the four active road tires. In addition, the
instrument cluster will display a graphic showing the
pressure values of each tire with the low tire pressure
values in a different color, or the Uconnect radio will
display a TPMS message; when this occurs you must
increase the tire pressure to the recommended cold
placard pressure in order for the TPMS Warning Light to
turn off.
The tire pressure will vary with temperature by about 1 psi
(7 kPa) for every 12°F (6.5°C). This means that when the
outside temperature decreases, the tire pressure will
decrease. Tire pressure should always be set based on
cold inflation tire pressure. This is defined as the tire
pressure after the vehicle has not been driven for at least
three hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km) after a
three hour period. The cold tire inflation pressure must not
exceed the maximum inflation pressure molded into the
tire sidewall. The tire pressure will also increase as the
vehicle is driven — this is normal and there should be no
adjustment for this increased pressure.
See
Úpage 370 on how to properly inflate the vehicle’s
tires. The TPMS will warn the driver of a low tire pressure if the
tire pressure falls below the low-pressure warning limit for
any reason, including low temperature effects and natural
pressure loss through the tire
Úpage 402.
The TPMS will continue to warn the driver of low tire
pressure as long as the condition exists, and will not turn
off until the tire pressure is at or above the recommended
cold placard pressure. Once the low TPMS Warning Light
illuminates, increase the tire pressure to the
recommended cold placard pressure in order for the
TPMS Warning Light to turn off. The system will
automatically update and the TPMS Warning Light will turn
off once the system receives the updated tire pressures.
The vehicle may need to be driven for up to 20 minutes
above 15 mph (24 km/h) in order for the TPMS to receive
this information.
NOTE:When filling warm tires, the tire pressure may need to be
increased up to an additional 4 psi (28 kPa) above the
recommended cold placard pressure in order to turn the
TPMS Warning Light off.
For example, your vehicle may have a recommended cold
(parked for more than three hours) placard pressure of
30 psi (207 kPa). If the ambient temperature is 68°F
(20°C) and the measured tire pressure is 27 psi
(186 kPa), a temperature drop to 20°F (-7°C) will
decrease the tire pressure to approximately 23 psi
(158 kPa). This tire pressure is sufficiently low enough
to turn on the TPMS Warning Light. Driving the vehicle may cause the tire pressure to rise to
approximately 27 psi (186 kPa), but the TPMS Warning
Light will still be on. In this situation, the TPMS Warning
Light will turn off only after the tires are inflated to the
vehicle’s recommended cold placard pressure value.
CAUTION!

The TPMS has been optimized for the original equip -
ment 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 equip -
ment 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 dealership to have your sensor func -
tion checked.
 After inspecting or adjusting the tire pressure always
reinstall the valve stem cap. This will prevent mois -
ture and dirt from entering the valve stem, which
could damage the TPMS sensor.
6

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 277

278SAFETY
NOTE:
The TPMS is not intended to replace normal tire care
and maintenance or to provide warning of a tire failure
or condition.
 The TPMS should not be used as a tire pressure gauge
while adjusting your tire pressure, unless your vehicle
is equipped with a Tire Fill Alert (TFA) system.
 Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the
tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinfla -
tion also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and
may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
 The TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire mainte -
nance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain
correct tire pressure using an accurate tire pressure
gauge, even if underinflation has not reached the level
to trigger illumination of the TPMS Warning Light.
 Seasonal temperature changes will affect tire pres -
sure, and the TPMS will monitor the actual tire pres -
sure in the tire.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System Display

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses wireless
technology with wheel rim mounted electronic sensors to
monitor tire pressure levels. Sensors, mounted to each
wheel as part of the valve stem, transmit tire pressure
readings to the receiver module.
NOTE:It is particularly important for you to check the tire
pressure in all of the tires on your vehicle monthly and to
maintain the proper pressure.
The TPMS consists of the following components:
 Receiver module
 Four Tire Pressure Monitoring System sensors
 Various Tire Pressure Monitoring System messages,
which display in the instrument cluster
 Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Low
Pressure Warnings
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light will illuminate in the instrument
cluster and a chime will sound when tire
pressure is low in one or more of the four active
road tires. In addition, the instrument cluster will display a
graphic showing the pressure values of each tire with the
low tire pressure values in a different color. An "Inflate to
XX" message will also be displayed.

Low Tire Pressure Display

Should this occur, you should stop as soon as possible
and inflate the tires with a low pressure condition
(those in a different color in the instrument cluster
graphic) to the vehicle’s recommended cold placard
pressure inflation value as shown in the "Inflate to XX"
message. Once the system receives the updated tire
pressures, the system will automatically update, the
graphic display in the instrument cluster will return to its
original color, and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Warning Light will turn off. The vehicle may need to be
driven for up to 20 minutes above 15 mph (24 km/h) in
order for the TPMS to receive this information.
NOTE:When filling warm tires, the tire pressure may need to be
increased up to an additional 4 psi (28 kPa) above the
recommended cold placard pressure in order to turn the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light off.

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SAFETY279
Service TPMS Warning
If a system fault is detected, the Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) Warning Light will flash on and off for 75
seconds and then remain on solid. The system fault will
also sound a chime. In addition, the instrument cluster will
display a "SERVICE TPM SYSTEM" message for a minimum
of five seconds and then display dashes (--) in place of the
pressure value to indicate which sensor is not being
received.
If the ignition switch is cycled, this sequence will repeat,
providing the system fault still exists. If the system fault no
longer exists, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Warning Light will no longer flash, and the "SERVICE TPM
SYSTEM" message will no longer display, and a pressure
value will display in place of the dashes. A system fault can
occur due to any of the following:
Signal interference due to electronic devices or driving
next to facilities emitting the same radio frequencies
as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System sensors
 Installing aftermarket window tinting that contains
materials that may block radio wave signals
 Accumulation of snow or ice around the wheels or
wheel housings
 Using tire chains on the vehicle
 Using wheels/tires not equipped with TPMS sensors
A system fault may occur due to an incorrect TPMS sensor
location condition. When a system fault occurs due to an
incorrect TPMS sensor location, the Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light will flash on and
off for 75 seconds and then remain on solid. The system fault will also sound a chime. In addition, the
instrument cluster will display a Tire Pressure Temporarily
Unavailable message in place of the tire pressure display
screen. If the ignition switch is cycled, this sequence will
repeat, providing the system fault still exists. If the system
fault no longer exists, the “Tire Pressure Monitoring
System Warning Light” will no longer flash and the tire
pressure display screen will be displayed showing the tire
pressure values the correct locations.
Vehicles With Non-Matching Full Size Spare Or Compact
Spare

The non-matching full size spare or compact spare tire
does not have a TPMS sensor. Therefore, the TPMS will
not monitor the pressure in the non-matching full size
spare or compact spare tire.
 If you install the non-matching full size spare or
compact spare tire in place of a road tire that has a
pressure below the low-pressure warning limit, upon
the next ignition switch cycle, the Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light and a
“LOW TIRE” message will remain on and a chime will
sound. In addition, the graphic in the instrument
cluster will still display a pressure value in a different
color and an “Inflate to XX” message.
 After driving the vehicle for up to 20 minutes above
15 mph (24 km/h), the Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) Warning Light will flash on and off for
75 seconds and then remain on solid. In addition, the
instrument cluster will display a "SERVICE TPM
SYSTEM" message for a minimum of five seconds and
then display dashes (--) in place of the pressure value. 
For each subsequent ignition switch cycle, a chime will
sound, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light will flash on and off for 75 seconds and
then remain on solid, and the instrument cluster will
display a "SERVICE TPM SYSTEM" message for a
minimum of five seconds and then display dashes (--)
in place of the pressure value.
 Once you repair or replace the original road tire and
reinstall it on the vehicle in place of the non-matching
full size spare or compact spare, the TPMS will update
automatically. In addition, the Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) Warning Light will turn off and the
graphic in the instrument cluster will display a new
pressure value instead of dashes (--), as long as no tire
pressure is below the low-pressure warning limit in any
of the four active road tires. The vehicle may need to be
driven for up to 20 minutes above 15 mph (24 km/h)
in order for the TPMS to receive this information.
Tire Fill Alert
This feature notifies the user when the placard tire
pressure is attained while inflating or deflating the tire.
You may choose to disable or enable the Tire Fill Alert
feature through use of the Uconnect Settings in the radio.
NOTE:
Only one tire can be filled at a time when using the Tire
Fill Alert system.
 The Tire Fill Alert feature cannot be entered if an
existing TPMS fault is set to “active” or if the system is
in deactivation mode (if equipped).
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