2023 RAM 1500 lights

STARTING AND OPERATING133
NOTE:
The 4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW positions are designed
for loose, slippery road surfaces only. Driving in the
4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW positions on dry hard
surfaced roads may cause increased tire wear and
damage to the driveline components.
 The transfer case N (Neutral) button is located in the
center of the 4WD Control Switch and is pushed by
using a ballpoint pen or similar object. The transfer
case N (Neutral) position is to be used for recreational
towing only
Úpage 187. Transfer Case Position Indicator Lights
The Transfer Case Position Indicator Lights (4WD HIGH,
4WD LOW, and 4WD AUTO) are located in the instrument
cluster and indicate the current and desired transfer case
selection. When you select a different transfer case
position, the indicator lights will do the following:

1. The current position indicator light will turn off.

2. The selected position indicator light will flash until the
transfer case completes the shift.
3. When the shift is complete, the indicator light for the selected position will stop flashing and remain on.
If the transfer case does not shift into the desired position,
one or more of the following events may occur:

1. The indicator light for the current position will remain on.

2. The newly selected position indicator light will continue to flash.
3. If the transfer case will not shift, there will be a cluster
message stating the 4WD shift has canceled.
NOTE:Before retrying a selection, make certain that all the
necessary requirements for selecting a new transfer case
position have been met. To retry the selection, push the
current position, wait five seconds, and retry selection.
The SERV 4WD Warning Light monitors the electronic shift
four-wheel drive system. If this light remains on after
engine start-up or illuminates during driving, it means that
the four-wheel drive system is not functioning properly and
that service is required.
NOTE:Do not attempt to make a shift while only the front or rear
wheels are spinning. This could cause damage to driveline
components.
When operating your vehicle in 4WD LOW, the engine
speed is approximately three times that of the 2WD, 4WD
AUTO or 4WD HIGH positions at a given road speed. Take
care not to overspeed the engine and do not exceed
25 mph (40 km/h).
Proper operation of four-wheel drive vehicles depends on
tires of equal size, type and circumference on each wheel.
Any difference in tire size can cause damage to the
drivetrain.
Because four-wheel drive provides improved traction,
there is a tendency to exceed safe turning and stopping
speeds. Do not go faster than road conditions permit.
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 drive shaft 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.
 The transmission may not engage PARK if the vehicle
is moving. Always bring the vehicle to a complete
stop before shifting to PARK, and verify that the
transmission gear position indicator solidly indicates
PARK (P) without blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is
completely stopped, and the PARK position is
properly indicated, before exiting the vehicle.
WARNING!
Always engage the parking brake when powering down
the vehicle if the SERV 4WD Warning Light is
illuminated. Not engaging the parking brake may allow
the vehicle to roll which may cause personal injury or
death.
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STARTING AND OPERATING135
The vehicle will return to NRH from Aero Mode if the
vehicle speed remains between 30 mph (48 km/h)
and 35 mph (56 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or
if the vehicle speed falls below 30 mph (48 km/h).
NOTE:
Automatic Aero mode will be disabled if a trailer is
detected to prevent shifting loads.
 Speed thresholds for raising/lowering the vehicle
automatically at higher speeds only apply if
Automatic Aero Mode is enabled in your Uconnect
Radio settings.
To enter Aero Height manually push the height selector
switch down once from NRH at any vehicle speed. To
return to NRH push the height selector switch up once
while vehicle speed is less than 56 mph (90 km/h).
NOTE:Automatic Aero Mode may be disabled through vehicle
settings in the instrument cluster display Úpage 98 or
through your Uconnect Radio (if equipped) Úpage 191.
 Entry/Exit Height (Lowers the vehicle approximately
2 inches [51 mm]) – This position lowers the vehicle
for easier passenger entry and exit as well as lowering
the vehicle for easier loading and unloading of cargo.
To enter Entry/Exit Mode, push the height selector
switch down once from the NRH while the vehicle
speed is below 33 mph (53 km/h). Once the vehicle
speed goes below 15 mph (24 km/h) the vehicle
height will begin to lower. If the vehicle speed remains
between 15 mph (24 km/h) and 25 mph (40 km/h) for
greater than 60 seconds, or the vehicle speed exceeds
25 mph (40 km/h) the Entry/Exit change will be canceled. To return to Normal Height Mode, push the height
selector switch up once while in Entry/Exit or drive the
vehicle over 15 mph (24 km/h).
NOTE:Entry/Exit Height may be achieved using the Remote
Lowering feature on your key fob for easier entry/loading
Úpage 16.
The system requires that the ignition be in the ON/RUN
position or the engine running for all user requested
changes. When lowering the vehicle, all of the doors must
be closed. If a door is opened at any time while the vehicle
is lowering, the change will not be completed until the
open door(s) is closed.
This system uses a lifting and lowering pattern which
keeps the headlights from incorrectly shining into
oncoming traffic. When raising the vehicle, the rear of the
vehicle will move up first and then the front. When
lowering the vehicle, the front will move down first and
then the rear.
After the engine is turned off, it may be noticed that the air
suspension system operates briefly; this is normal. The
system is correcting the position of the vehicle to ensure a
proper appearance.
To assist with changing a spare tire, the air suspension
system has a feature which allows the automatic leveling
to be disabled
Úpage 98. Default Ride Height:

Select Aero Height or Normal Ride Height as the default
for all vehicle speeds and operation. This is the
selected height that the suspension will level for speed
changes (e.g. raising from Entry/Exit Height at speed,
lowering from Off-Road Height at speed, etc.).
 Default ride height can be changed by manually
adjusting the Air Suspension switch to Normal Ride
Height or Aero Ride Height and staying in the selected
height for 2.5 seconds. It will be stored as the default
ride height and the height will be maintained until a
new default ride height is selected.
NOTE:If equipped with a touchscreen radio, all enabling/
disabling of air suspension features must be done through
the radio
Úpage 191.
AIR SUSPENSION MODES
The air suspension system has multiple modes to protect
the system in unique situations. The engine should be
running to change between Air Suspension Modes.
CAUTION!
When in Entry/Exit Height, be aware of your
surroundings, you may not have the clearance required
for certain areas and vehicle damage may occur.
WARNING!
The air suspension system uses a high pressure
volume of air to operate the system. To avoid personal
injury or damage to the system, see an authorized
dealer for service.
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138STARTING AND OPERATING
Entry/Exit Height (Lowers the vehicle approximately
3 inches [73 mm]) – This position lowers the vehicle
for easier passenger entry and exit as well as lowering
the vehicle for easier loading and unloading of cargo.
To enter Entry/Exit Mode, push the height selector
switch down twice from the NRH while the vehicle
speed is below 33 mph (53 km/h). Once the vehicle
speed goes below 15 mph (24 km/h) the vehicle
height will begin to lower. If the vehicle speed remains
between 15 mph (24 km/h) and 25 mph (40 km/h) for
greater than 60 seconds, or the vehicle speed exceeds
25 mph (40 km/h) the Entry/Exit change will be canceled. To return to Normal Height Mode, push the
height selector switch up twice while in Entry/Exit or
drive the vehicle over 15 mph (24 km/h). Entry/Exit Height may not be available due to vehicle payload, an
instrument cluster display message is shown when this
occurs
Úpage 98.
The system requires that the ignition be in the ON/RUN
position or the engine running for all user requested
changes. When lowering the vehicle, all of the doors must
be closed. If a door is opened at any time while the vehicle
is lowering, the change will not be completed until the
open door(s) is closed. This system uses a lifting and lowering pattern which
keeps the headlights from incorrectly shining into
oncoming traffic. When raising the vehicle, the rear of the
vehicle will move up first and then the front. When
lowering the vehicle, the front will move down first and
then the rear.
After the engine is turned off, it may be noticed that the air
suspension system operates briefly; this is normal.
The system is correcting the position of the vehicle to
ensure a proper appearance.
To assist with changing a spare tire, the air suspension
system has a feature which allows the automatic leveling
to be disabled
Úpage 191.
Default Ride Height:
 Select Aero Height or Normal Ride Height as the default
for all vehicle speeds and operation. This is the
selected height that the suspension will level for speed
changes (e.g. raising from Entry/Exit Height at speed,
lowering from Off-Road Height at speed, etc.).
 Default ride height can be changed by manually
adjusting the Air Suspension switch to Normal Ride
Height or Aero Ride Height and staying in the selected
height for 2.5 seconds. It will be stored as the default
ride height and the height will be maintained until a
new default ride height is selected.
NOTE:If equipped with a touchscreen radio, all enabling/
disabling of air suspension features must be done through
the radio
Úpage 191.
AIR SUSPENSION MODES
The air suspension system has multiple modes to protect
the system in unique situations:
Automatic Aero Mode
To improve aerodynamics, the air suspension system has
a feature which will put the vehicle into Aero height
automatically at higher speeds
Úpage 98.
Tire Jack Mode
To assist with changing a tire, the air suspension system
has a feature which allows the automatic leveling to be
disabled
Úpage 191.
Transport Mode
For towing your vehicle with four wheels off the road, the
air suspension system has a feature which will put the
vehicle into Entry/Exit height and disable the automatic
load leveling system
Úpage 191.
CAUTION!
When in Entry/Exit Height, be aware of your
surroundings, you may not have the clearance required
for certain areas and vehicle damage may occur.
WARNING!
The air suspension system uses a high pressure
volume of air to operate the system. To avoid personal
injury or damage to the system, see an authorized
dealer for service.

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STARTING AND OPERATING149

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 Detected 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.
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 mean
that the Forward Collision Warning system is applying the
brakes autonomously.
Overtake Aid
When driving with Adaptive Cruise Control (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 Stop
In the event that the ACC system brings your vehicle to a
standstill while following the vehicle in front, if the vehicle
in front starts moving within two seconds of your vehicle
coming to a standstill, your vehicle will resume motion
without the need for any driver action.
If the vehicle in front does not start moving within two
seconds of your vehicle coming to a standstill, the driver
will either have to push the RES (resume) button, or apply
the accelerator pedal to reengage the ACC to the existing
set speed.
NOTE:After the ACC system holds your vehicle at a standstill for
approximately three consecutive minutes, the parking
brake will be activated, and the ACC system will be
canceled.
While ACC is holding your vehicle at a standstill, if the
driver seat belt is unbuckled or the driver door is opened,
the parking brake will be activated, and the ACC system
will be canceled.
1 — Longest Distance Setting (Four Bars)
2 — Medium Distance Setting (Two Bars)
3 — Long Distance Setting (Three Bars)
4 — Short Distance Setting (One Bar)
WARNING!
When the ACC system is resumed, the driver must
ensure that there are no pedestrians, vehicles or
objects in the path of the vehicle. Failure to follow these
warnings can result in a collision and death or serious
personal injury.
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182STARTING AND OPERATING
Display Messages
The trailer brake control interacts with the instrument
cluster display. Display messages, along with a single
chime, will be displayed when a malfunction is determined
in the trailer connection, trailer brake control, or on the
trailer
Úpage 98.
NOTE:
An aftermarket controller may be available for use with
trailers with air or EOH trailer brake systems. To deter -
mine the type of brakes on your trailer and the avail -
ability of controllers, check with your trailer
manufacturer or dealer.
 Removal of the ITBM will cause errors and it may cause
damage to the electrical system and electronic
modules of the vehicle. See an authorized dealer if an
aftermarket module is to be installed.
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-pin 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 connect 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.

Four-Pin Connector

WARNING!
Connecting a trailer that is not compatible with the
ITBM system may result in reduced or complete loss of
trailer braking. There may be a increase in stopping
distance or trailer instability which could result in
personal injury.
CAUTION!
Connecting a trailer that is not compatible with the
ITBM system may result in reduced or complete loss of
trailer braking. There may be a increase in stopping
distance or trailer instability which could result in
damage to your vehicle, trailer, or other property.
1 — Ground
2 — Park
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Right Stop/Turn

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STARTING AND OPERATING183

Seven-Pin Connector

Trailer Light Check
This feature will run the trailer lights through a sequence
to check the trailer light function. It is available in the
Instrument Cluster under the Trailer Tow menu
Úpage 103. When activated the feature will enable all of the exterior
lights sequentially for up to five minutes for time to walk
around and verify functionality. The following exterior
lights will remain on for the entirety of the sequence:

Park/Running Lamps
 Side Marker Lamps (if equipped)
 License Lamp
 Signature Lamp (if equipped)
 Low Beams
 Fog Lamps (if equipped)
 Daytime Running Lamps
During this time the following lights will sequence, each
activating for three seconds:

1. Brake and CHMSL (third brake light)

2. Left turn signal
3. Right turn signal
4. Reverse Lamps
5. High Beam
This light check sequence will continue for a total of five
minutes. The sequence will only activate if the following conditions
are met:

Vehicle is equipped with the Trailer Tow Package
 Vehicle is in PARK
 Vehicle is not in motion
 Ignition is in ACC or ON/RUN
 Remote start is inactive
 Brakes are not applied
 Left turn signal is not applied
 Right turn signal is not applied
 Hazard switch is not applied
The sequence will cancel if any of the following conditions
occur:
 Brakes are applied
 Vehicle is shifted from PARK
 Vehicle is no longer stationary
 Left turn signal activated from stalk
 Right turn signal is activated from stalk
 Hazard switch is activated
 Any button on the key fob is pushed
 Ignition button is pushed
 High Beam stalk position is changed
 Sequence is canceled in the instrument cluster
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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188STARTING AND OPERATING
5. Release the parking brake.
6. Shift the transmission into REVERSE.
7. Release the brake pedal for five seconds and ensure
that there is no vehicle movement.
8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 with the transmission in DRIVE.
9. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL. Apply the parking brake. Turn off the engine. For vehicles with Keyless
Enter ‘n Go™, push and hold the ENGINE START/
STOP button until the engine shuts off. The
transmission will automatically select PARK when the
engine is turned off.
10. Turn the ignition off.
11. Attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle using a suitable tow bar.
12. Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN mode, but do not start the engine.
13. Release the parking brake.
14. Turn the ignition OFF.NOTE:
 Steps 2 and 3 are requirements that must be met
before pushing the N (Neutral) button, and must
continue to be met until the shift has been completed.
If any of these requirements are not met before
pushing the N (Neutral) button or are no longer met
during the shift, the N (Neutral) indicator light will flash
continuously until all requirements are met or until the
N (Neutral) button is released.
 The ignition must be in the ON/RUN mode for a shift to
take place and for the position indicator lights to be
operable. If the ignition is not in the ON/RUN mode, the
shift will not take place and no position indicator lights
will be on or flashing.
 A flashing N (Neutral) position indicator light indicates
that shift requirements have not been met.
 If the vehicle is equipped with air suspension, the
engine should be started and left running for a
minimum of 60 seconds (with all the doors closed) at
least once every 24 hours. This process allows the air
suspension to adjust the vehicle’s ride height to
compensate for temperature effects.
Shifting Out Of N (Neutral)
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for
normal usage:

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, leaving it
connected to the tow vehicle.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal.
3. Start the engine. Apply the parking brake. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
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).
5. When the N (Neutral) indicator light turns off, release the N (Neutral) button.
6. Turn the engine off. The transmission will automat -
ically select PARK when the engine is turned off.
7. Release the brake pedal.

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STARTING AND OPERATING189
8. Disconnect vehicle from the tow vehicle.
9. Press and hold the brake pedal.
10. Start the engine.
11. Release the parking brake.
12. Shift the transmission into DRIVE, release the brake
pedal, and check that the vehicle operates normally.
NOTE:
Steps 3 and 4 are requirements that must be met
before pushing the button to shift out of N (Neutral),
and must continue to be met until the shift has been
completed. If any of these requirements are not met
before pushing the button or are no longer met during
the shift, the N (Neutral) indicator light will flash contin -
uously until all requirements are met or until the button
is released.
 The ignition must be in the ON/RUN mode for a shift to
take place and for the position indicator lights to be
operable. If the ignition is not in the ON/RUN mode, the
shift will not take place and no position indicator lights
will be on or flashing.
 A flashing N (Neutral) position indicator light indicates
that shift requirements have not been met.
DRIVING TIPS
DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES
Acceleration
Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slippery
surfaces may cause the driving wheels to pull erratically to
the right or left. This phenomenon occurs when there is a
difference in the surface traction under the rear (driving)
wheels.
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure
safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.
Flowing/Rising Water
Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through shallow
standing water, consider the following Cautions and
Warnings before doing so.
WARNING!
Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous.
Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the rear
wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle and
possibly have a collision. Accelerate slowly and
carefully whenever there is likely to be poor traction
(ice, snow, wet, mud, loose sand, etc.).
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where water is
flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off). Flowing water
can wear away the road or path's surface and cause
your vehicle to sink into deeper water. Furthermore,
flowing and/or rising water can carry your vehicle away
swiftly. Failure to follow this warning may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
WARNING!
Driving through standing water limits your vehicle’s
traction capabilities. Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h)
when driving through standing water.
 Driving through standing water limits your vehicle’s
braking capabilities, which increases stopping
distances. Therefore, after driving through standing
water, drive slowly and lightly press on the brake
pedal several times to dry the brakes.
 Failure to follow these warnings may result in injuries
that are serious or fatal to you, your passengers, and
others around you.
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