2023 RAM 1500 engine

132STARTING AND OPERATING
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 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.
Shifting Procedure
If any of the requirements to select a new transfer case
position have not been met, then the transfer case will
not shift. The position indicator light for the previous
position will remain on and the newly selected position
indicator light will continue to flash until all the require -
ments for the selected position have been met.
 If all the requirements to select a new transfer case
position have been met, then the current position indi -
cator light will turn off and the selected position indi -
cator light will flash until the transfer case completes
the shift. When the shift is complete, the position indi -
cator light for the selected position will stop flashing
and remain on.
FIVE-POSITION ELECTRONICALLY
S
HIFTED TRANSFER CASE —
I
F EQUIPPED
This is an electronic shift transfer case and is operated by
the 4WD Control Switch (Transfer Case Switch), which is
located on the instrument panel.

Five-Position/On-Demand Transfer Case
Five-Position/On-Demand Transfer Case — GT Models

This electronically shifted transfer case provides five
positions:
 Two-Wheel Drive High Range (2WD) — This range is for
normal street and highway driving on dry hard surfaced
roads. Driving the vehicle in 2WD will have greater fuel
economy benefits as the front axle is not engaged in
2WD.
 Four-Wheel Drive Automatic High Range (4WD AUTO) —
This range sends power to the front wheels automati -
cally when the vehicle senses a loss of traction. This
range may be used during varying road conditions.
 Four-Wheel Drive High Range (4WD HIGH) — This range
provides torque to the front driveshaft (engages
four-wheel drive) which allows front and rear wheels to
spin at the same speed. This provides additional trac -
tion for loose or slippery road surfaces only.
 Four-Wheel Drive Low Range (4WD LOW) — This range
provides low speed four-wheel drive. It maximizes
torque (increased torque over 4WD HIGH) to the front
driveshaft; allowing front and rear wheels to rotate at
the same speed. This range provides additional trac -
tion and maximum pulling power for loose or slippery
road surfaces only. Do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h)
in this range.
 N (Neutral) — This range disengages both the front and
rear driveshafts from the powertrain. To be used for flat
towing behind another vehicle
Úpage 187.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 132

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.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 133

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.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 135

136STARTING AND OPERATING
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.
Automatic Aero Mode may be disabled through vehicle
settings in the Uconnect Radio (if equipped)
Úpage 191.
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.
Wheel Alignment Mode
Before performing a wheel alignment, this mode must be
enabled which will put the vehicle into NRH and disable
automatic leveling
Úpage 191.
Protection Strategy
In order to protect the air suspension system, the vehicle
will disable load leveling as required (suspension
overloaded, battery charge low, etc.). Load leveling will
automatically resume as soon as system operation
requirements are met. See an authorized dealer if system
does not resume.
NOTE:For towing with air suspension Úpage 173.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
M
ESSAGES
When the appropriate conditions exist, a message will
appear in the instrument cluster display Úpage 98.
An audible chime will be heard whenever a system error
has been detected.
See an authorized dealer for system service if normal
operation does not resume.
OPERATION

Air Suspension Switch

The indicator lamps 1 through 5 will illuminate to show the
current position of the vehicle. Flashing indicator lamps
will show a position which the system is working to
achieve. When raising, if multiple indicator lamps are
flashing, the highest flashing indicator lamp is the position
the system is working to achieve.
When lowering, if multiple indicators are flashing, the
lowest solid indicator lamp is the position the system is
working to achieve. Pushing the height selector up once will move the
suspension one position higher from the current position,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., ignition in ON/RUN
position, engine running, speed below threshold, etc.).
The height selector switch can be pushed up multiple
times, each push will raise the requested level by one
position up to a maximum position of OR2 or the highest
position allowed based on current conditions
(i.e., vehicle speed, etc.).
Pushing the height selector down once will move the
suspension one position lower from the current level,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., ignition in ON/RUN
position, engine running, doors closed, speed below
threshold, etc.). The height selector switch can be pushed
down multiple times, each push will lower the requested
level by one position down to a minimum of Entry/Exit
Mode or the lowest position allowed based on current
conditions (i.e., vehicle speed, etc.).
Automatic height changes will occur based on vehicle
speed and the current vehicle height. The indicator lamps
and instrument cluster display messages will operate the
same for automatic changes and user requested changes.

Off-Road 2 (OR2) – Indicator lamps 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 will
be illuminated.
 Off-Road 1 (OR1) – Indicator lamps 5, 4, 3 and 2 will be
illuminated.
 Normal Ride Height (NRH) – Indicator lamps 5, 4 and 3
will be illuminated.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 136

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.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 138

STARTING AND OPERATING139
Wheel Alignment Mode
Before performing a wheel alignment, this mode must be
enabled which moves the vehicle to normal ride height
and disables the automatic leveling
Úpage 191.
Protection Strategy
In order to protect the air suspension system, the vehicle
will disable load leveling as required (suspension
overloaded, battery charge low, etc.). Load leveling will
automatically resume as soon as system operation
requirements are met. See an authorized dealer if system
does not resume.
NOTE:For towing with air suspension Úpage 173.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
M
ESSAGES
When the appropriate conditions exist, a message will
appear in the instrument cluster display Úpage 98.
An audible chime will be heard whenever a system error
has been detected.
See an authorized dealer for system service if normal
operation does not resume.
OPERATION

Air Suspension Switch

The indicator lamps 1 through 4 will illuminate to show the
current position of the vehicle. Flashing indicator lamps
will show a position which the system is working to
achieve. When raising or lowering, the flashing indicator
lamp is the position the system is working to achieve.
Pushing the height selector switch up once will move the
suspension one position higher from the current position,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., key in ON/RUN
position, engine running, speed below threshold, etc.).
The height selector switch can be pushed up multiple
times, each push will raise the requested level by one
position up to a maximum position of OR or the highest
position allowed based on current conditions
(i.e., vehicle speed, etc.). Pushing the height selector switch down once will move
the suspension one position lower from the current level,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., key in ON/RUN
position, engine running, doors closed, speed below
threshold, etc.). The height selector switch can be pushed
down multiple times, each push will lower the requested
level by one position down to a minimum of Entry/Exit
Mode or the lowest position allowed based on current
conditions (i.e., vehicle speed, etc.).
Automatic height changes will occur based on vehicle
speed and the current vehicle height. The indicator lamps
and instrument cluster display messages will operate the
same for automatic changes and user requested changes.

Off-Road 1 (OR1) – Indicator lamps 4, 3, 2, and 1 will
be illuminated.
 Normal Ride Height (NRH) – Indicator lamps 4, 3, and
2 will be illuminated.
 Aero Height– Indicator lamps 4 and 3 will be
illuminated.
 Entry/Exit – Indicator lamp 4 will be illuminated.
Entry/Exit can be requested up to 33 mph (53 km/h).
If vehicle speed is reduced to, and kept below, 15 mph
(24 km/h) indicator lamp 3 will flash and indicator
lamp 4 will remain solid until Entry/Exit is achieved at
which point indicator lamp 3 will turn off.
 Automatic Aero Mode – Indicator lamps 5 and 4 will be
illuminated.
 Transport Mode – No indicator lamps will be illumi -
nated. Transport Mode is disabled by driving the
vehicle or disabling through the Uconnect settings.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 139

STARTING AND OPERATING141
The limited-slip differential is especially helpful during
slippery driving conditions. With both rear wheels on a
slippery surface, a slight application of the accelerator will
supply maximum traction. When starting with only one
rear wheel on an excessively slippery surface, slight
momentary application of the parking brake may be
necessary to gain maximum traction.
Care should be taken to avoid sudden accelerations when
both rear wheels are on a slippery surface. This could
cause both rear wheels to spin, and allow the vehicle to
slide sideways on the crowned surface of a road or in a
turn.
POWER STEERING
ELECTRIC POWER STEERING
The electric power steering system will provide increased
vehicle response and ease of maneuverability. The power
steering system adapts to different driving conditions.
If the steering icon is flashing, it indicates that the vehicle
needs to be taken to an authorized dealer for service. It is
likely the vehicle has lost power steering assistance. If the steering icon is displayed and the “POWER
STEERING SYSTEM OVER TEMP” message is displayed on
the instrument cluster screen, this indicates an over
temperature condition in the power steering system. Once
driving conditions are safe, pull over and let the vehicle
idle for a few moments until the icon and message turn off
Úpage 98.
If the steering icon is displayed and the “SERVICE POWER
STEERING – ASSIST OFF” message is displayed on the
instrument cluster screen, this indicates the vehicle needs
to be taken to an authorized dealer for service
Úpage 98.
NOTE:
 Even if the power steering assistance is no longer oper -
ational, it is still possible to steer the vehicle. Under
these conditions there will be a substantial increase in
steering effort, especially at low speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
 If the condition persists, see an authorized dealer for
service.
FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY 5.7L ENGINES
ONLY — IF EQUIPPED
This feature offers improved fuel economy by shutting off
four of the engine's eight cylinders during light load and
cruise conditions. The system is automatic with no driver
inputs or additional driving skills required.
NOTE:This system may take some time to return to full function -
ality after a battery disconnect.
STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
The Stop/Start function, included with eTorque equipped
vehicles, is developed to save fuel and reduce emissions.
The system will stop the engine automatically as the
vehicle decelerates at low speeds if the required
conditions are met. Releasing the brake pedal or shifting
out of DRIVE will automatically restart the engine.
Vehicles equipped with eTorque contain a heavy-duty
motor generator and an additional hybrid electric battery
to store energy from vehicle deceleration used to expand
engine off energy storage and for engine startup after a
stop, as well as providing engine torque assist when
conditions are met to enable this.
AUTOSTOP MODE
The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every normal
customer engine start. It will remain in STOP/START NOT
READY until you drive forward with a vehicle speed greater
than 2 mph (3 km/h). At that time, the system will go into
STOP/START READY and if all other conditions are met,
the system may go into STOP/START AUTOSTOP ACTIVE
Autostop mode.
WARNING!
When servicing vehicles equipped with a limited-slip or
locking differential, never run the engine with one rear
wheel off the ground as the vehicle may drive through
the rear wheel remaining on the ground and result in
unintended movement.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 141

142STARTING AND OPERATING
To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following Must Occur:

1. The system must be in STOP/START READY state. A
STOP/START READY message is displayed in the
instrument cluster within the Stop/Start section

Ú
page 98.

2. The vehicle must be decelerating and likely coming to a complete stop.
3. The transmission gear selector must be in DRIVE and the brake pedal pressed.
The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to the
zero position and the Stop/Start telltale will illuminate
indicating you are in an Autostop. While in an Autostop,
the Climate Controls system may automatically adjust
airflow to maintain cabin comfort. Customer settings will
be maintained upon return to an engine running condition.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions to see if they are fulfilled.
In following situations, the engine will not Autostop:
 Driver’s seat belt is not buckled
 Driver’s door is not closed
 The vehicle is on a steep grade
 Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an accept -
able cabin temperature has not been achieved 
HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower speed
 Engine has not reached normal operating temperature
 Engine or exhaust temperature is too high
 The battery is charging
 The transmission is not in DRIVE
 Hood is open
 Transfer case is in 4WD LOW
 TOW/HAUL mode is selected
 Accelerator pedal input
 Excessive 12 Volt loads
 Brake application is adequate to obtain and maintain
a stop
It may be possible to operate the vehicle several
consecutive times in extreme conditions and not meet all
criteria to enable an Autostop state.TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN
A
UTOSTOP MODE
While in DRIVE, the engine will start when the brake pedal
is released or the accelerator pedal is pressed and the
transmission will automatically reengage upon engine
restart. Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start
Automatically While In Autostop Mode
The engine will start automatically when:

The transmission selector is moved from DRIVE to
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, or PARK
 To maintain cabin temperature near the HVAC settings
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode
 12 Volt demand requires engine restart
 Stop/Start OFF switch is pushed
 Transfer case is in 4WD LOW
 The emissions system override is present
 A Stop/Start system error is present
Conditions That Force An Automatic Shift To Park While In
Autostop Mode
The engine will not start automatically and the
transmission will be placed in PARK if:
 The driver door is open and brake pedal released
 The driver door is open and the driver seat belt is
unbuckled
 The engine hood has been opened
 A Stop/Start system error is present
The engine may then be restarted by moving the
transmission shift selector out of PARK (e.g., to DRIVE) or,
in some cases, only by a key start. The instrument cluster
will display a “SHIFT OUT OF PARK” message, or a
“STOP/START KEY START REQUIRED” message, to
indicate which action is required
Úpage 98.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 142