2023 RAM PROMASTER brakes

98STARTING AND OPERATING
NARROW VEHICLES
Some narrow vehicles traveling near the outer
edges of the lane or edging into the lane are not
detected until they have moved fully into the lane.
There may not be sufficient distance to the vehicle
ahead.

Narrow Vehicle Example

STATIONARY OBJECTS AND VEHICLES
ACC does not react to stationary objects or
vehicles. For example, ACC will not react in
situations where the vehicle you are following
exits your lane and the vehicle ahead is stopped in
your lane. It will consider this stopped vehicle a
stationary object as it did not previously detect
movement from it. Always be attentive and ready
to apply the brakes if necessary.
Stationary Object And Stationary Vehicle Example

TRAFFIC SIGN ASSIST SYSTEM —
IF EQUIPPED
The Traffic Sign Assist (TSA) system uses a camera
mounted on the windshield, as well as map data
when the vehicle is equipped with Navigation, to
detect recognizable road signs such as:
Speed limits
School zones
No passing zones
NOTE:
The TSA system will automatically display the
road sign detected in the unit of measurement
(mph or km/h) selected within Uconnect
Settings or within the instrument cluster display.
If no speed limit signs are detected, the system
will revert to the speed limit signs that are
stored in the Navigation system.

The system always checks the traffic signs indi-
cating the current speed limit signs. The system is
able to recognize and display up to two different
road signs in the instrument cluster display.

ACTIVATION/DEACTIVATION
The TSA System can be enabled/disabled within
the Uconnect system through the Safety/Driver
Assistance menu. System ON is signaled by road
signs shown on the instrument cluster display.
NOTE:Even if the system is OFF, the speed limit sign will
be displayed when the driver selects it in the HOME
screen.
TRAFFIC SIGN ASSIST MODES
TSA has three selectable modes of operation that
are available through the Uconnect system.
Visual
When Visual is selected, the system will alert
the driver when the current speed of the vehicle
exceeds the detected speed limit by showing a
graphic in the instrument cluster display.

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 98

112STARTING AND OPERATING
PARKSENSE ACTIVE PARK ASSIST
SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

The ParkSense Active Park Assist system is intended to
assist the driver during parallel and perpendicular
parking maneuvers by identifying a proper parking
space, providing audible/visual instructions through
the instrument cluster display, and controlling the
steering wheel. The ParkSense Active Park Assist
system is defined as “semi-automatic” since the driver
maintains control of the accelerator, gear selector and
brakes. Depending on the driver's parking maneuver
selection, the system is capable of maneuvering a
vehicle into a parallel or a perpendicular parking space
on either side (i.e., driver side or passenger side).

NOTE:
The driver is always responsible for controlling
the vehicle, responsible for any surrounding
objects, and must intervene as required.
The system is provided to assist the driver and
not to substitute the driver.
During a semi-automatic maneuver, if the
driver touches the steering wheel after being
instructed to remove their hands from the
steering wheel, the system will cancel, and the
driver will be required to manually complete the
parking maneuver.
The system may not work in all conditions
(e.g. environmental conditions such as heavy
rain, snow, etc., or if searching for a parking
space that has surfaces that will absorb the
ultrasonic sensor waves).

It is important to keep the sensors clean in order for
the system to operate correctly. During cleaning
make sure not to scratch or damage them; avoid
using dry or rough cloths. The sensors should be
washed using clean water with addition of car
shampoo if necessary. In washing stations, clean
the sensors quickly, keeping the steam jet/high
pressure washing nozzles at least 4 in (10 cm) away
from the sensors.

New vehicles from the dealership must have at
least 31 miles (50 km) accumulated before the
ParkSense Active Park Assist system is fully cali -
brated and performs accurately. This is due to
the system’s dynamic vehicle calibration to
improve the performance of the feature.
The driver must control the vehicle’s brakes.
The automatic emergency braking feature is
NOT intended to substitute for the driver during
REVERSE maneuvers.
ENABLING AND DISABLING THE
P
ARKSENSE ACTIVE PARK ASSIST
S
YSTEM
The ParkSense Active Park Assist system
can be enabled and disabled with the
ParkSense Active Park Assist switch,
located on the switch panel below the
Uconnect display.
To enable or disable the system, push the
ParkSense Active Park Assist switch once
(LED turns on). Pushing the switch a second time
will disable the system (LED turns off).

The ParkSense Active Park Assist system will turn off
automatically for any of the following conditions:

Parking maneuver is completed.

Vehicle speed is greater than 18 mph (30 km/h)
when searching for a parking space.

Vehicle speed is greater than 5 mph (7 km/h) during active steering guidance into the parking
space.
Steering wheel is touched during active steering
guidance into the parking space.
If parking maneuver has not been completed
after 3 minutes.
ParkSense Front/Rear Park Assist switch is
pushed.

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 112

STARTING AND OPERATING119
CHANGING LANESENSE STATUS

The LaneSense system has settings to adjust the
intensity of the torque warning and the warning zone
sensitivity (Early/Medium/Late) that you can configure
through the Uconnect system
Ú
page 134.

NOTE:
When enabled the system operates above
37 mph (60 km/h) and below 112 mph
(180 km/h).
The warnings are disabled with use of the turn
signal.
The system will not apply torque to the steering
wheel whenever a safety system engages
(Anti-Lock Brakes, Traction Control System,
Electronic Stability Control, Forward Collision
Warning, etc.).
PARKVIEW REAR BACK UP CAMERA
Your vehicle is equipped with the ParkView Rear
Back Up Camera that allows you to see an
on-screen image of the rear surroundings of your
vehicle whenever the gear selector is put into
REVERSE and/or when the rear doors are opened.
The image will be displayed on the touchscreen
display along with a caution note to “Check Entire
Surroundings” across the top of the screen. After five seconds this note will disappear. The ParkView
Rear Back Up Camera is located on the top rear of
the vehicle below the center light.

Rear Back Up Camera Location

When the vehicle is shifted out of REVERSE and/or
when the rear doors are closed, the rear camera
mode is exited and the previous screen appears.
When engaged in the REVERSE gear, with Camera
Delay turned on, the camera image will continue to
be displayed for up to 10 seconds after switching
out of the REVERSE position, unless the speed of
the vehicle does not exceed 8 mph (13 km/h), or
that the gear is placed in the NEUTRAL or PARK
position. The touchscreen X button to disable the
camera image is made available ONLY when the
vehicle is not in REVERSE.
NOTE:The image displayed on the display may appear
slightly deformed.
When displayed, active grid lines will illustrate the
width of the vehicle and will show separate zones
that will help indicate the distance to the rear of
the vehicle. The following table shows the
approximate distances for each zone:
Zone Distance To The Rear Of The
Vehicle
Red 0 - 1 ft (0 - 30 cm)
Yellow 1 ft - 3 ft (30 cm - 1 m) Green 3 ft or greater (1 m or greater)
WARNING!
Drivers must be careful when backing up even
when using the Rear Back Up Camera. Always
check carefully behind your vehicle, and be
sure to check for pedestrians, animals, other
vehicles, obstructions, or blind spots before
backing up. You are responsible for the safety
of your surroundings and must continue to pay
attention while backing up. Failure to do so can
result in serious injury or death.
4

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 119

124STARTING AND OPERATING
RIM SIZE
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire
size listed.
INFLATION PRESSURE
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your
vehicle for all loading conditions up to full Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
CURB WEIGHT
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total
weight of the vehicle with all fluids, including
vehicle fuel, at full capacity conditions, and with
no occupants or cargo loaded into the vehicle. The
front and rear curb weight values are determined
by weighing your vehicle on a commercial scale
before any occupants or cargo are added.
OVERLOADING
The load carrying components (axle, springs,
tires, wheels, etc.) of your vehicle will provide
satisfactory service as long as you do not exceed
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the
front and rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
The best way to figure out the total weight of your
vehicle is to weigh it when it is fully loaded and
ready for operation. Weigh it on a commercial scale
to ensure that it is not over the GVWR. Figure out the weight on the front and rear axle of
the vehicle separately. It is important that you
distribute the load evenly over the front and rear
axles.
Overloading can cause potential safety hazards
and shorten useful service life. Heavier axles or
suspension components do not necessarily
increase the vehicle's GVWR.
LOADING
To load your vehicle properly, first figure out its
empty weight, axle-by-axle and side-by-side. Store
heavier items down low and be sure you distribute
their weight as evenly as possible. Stow all loose
items securely before driving. If weighing the
loaded vehicle shows that you have exceeded
either Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), but the
total load is within the specified Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR), you must redistribute the
weight. Improper weight distribution can have an
adverse effect on the way your vehicle steers and
handles and the way the brakes operate.
NOTE:Refer to the Vehicle Certification Label affixed to
the rear of the driver's door for your vehicle's GVWR
and GAWRs.
TRAILER TOWING
In this section you will find safety tips and
information on limits to the type of towing you can
reasonably do with your vehicle. Before towing a
trailer, carefully review this information to tow your
load as efficiently and safely as possible.
To maintain the New Vehicle Limited Warranty
coverage, follow the requirements and
recommendations in this manual concerning
vehicles used for trailer towing.
COMMON TOWING DEFINITIONS
The following trailer towing related definitions
will assist you in understanding the following
information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your
vehicle. This includes driver, passengers, cargo
and tongue weight. The total load must be limited
so that you do not exceed the GVWR Ú
page 123.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the total allowable weight of your
vehicle and trailer when weighed in combination.

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 124

STARTING AND OPERATING125
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the
weight of all cargo, consumables and equipment
(permanent or temporary) loaded in or on the
trailer in its “loaded and ready for operation”
condition.
The recommended way to measure GTW is to
put your fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale.
The entire weight of the trailer must be supported
by the scale.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front
and rear axles. Distribute the load over the front
and rear axles evenly. Make sure that you do not
exceed either front or rear GAWR Ú page 123.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The TW is the downward force exerted on the hitch
ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of
the load on your vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied
by the maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
The TSC can be a mechanical telescoping link that
can be installed between the hitch receiver and the
trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable
friction associated with the telescoping motion to
dampen any unwanted trailer swaying motions
while traveling.
If equipped, an electronic TSC recognizes a
swaying trailer and automatically applies individual
wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power to
attempt to eliminate the trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue
weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch
ball or some other connecting point of the vehicle.
These kinds of hitches are commonly used to tow
small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch

A Weight-Distributing Hitch system works by applying
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are typically
used for heavier loads to distribute trailer tongue
weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and the trailer
axle(s). When used in accordance with the
manufacturer's directions, it provides for a more level
ride, offering more consistent steering and brake
control thereby enhancing towing safety. The addition
of a friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens sway
caused by traffic and crosswinds and contributes
positively to tow vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer sway
control and a Weight-Distributing (load equalizing)
Hitch are recommended for heavier Tongue Weights
(TW) and may be required depending on vehicle and
trailer configuration/loading to comply with Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.

WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous
driving condition can result if either rating is
exceeded. You could lose control of the vehicle
and have a collision.WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight-Distributing
Hitch system may reduce handling, stability,
braking performance, and could result in a
collision.
Weight-Distributing Hitch systems may not be
compatible with surge brake couplers. Consult
with your hitch and trailer manufacturer or a
reputable Recreational Vehicle dealer for
additional information.
4

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 125

STARTING AND OPERATING127
(Continued)
(Continued)
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight
stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch.

Weight Distribution
Consider the following items when computing the
weight on the rear axle of the vehicle:The tongue weight of the trailer.
The weight of any other type of cargo or equip
-
ment put in or on your vehicle.
The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the trailer
adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional
factory-installed options or dealer-installed options
must be considered as part of the total load on your
vehicle. Refer to the Tire And Loading Information
Placard for the maximum combined weight of occu -
pants and cargo for your vehicle
Ú
page 253.

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 Ú
page 221. When towing a trailer,
never exceed the GAWR or GCWR ratings.WARNING!
Always load a trailer with 60% of the weight in
the front of the trailer. This places 10% of the
GTW on the tow hitch of your vehicle. Loads
balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear
can cause the trailer to sway severely side to
side which will cause loss of control of the
vehicle and trailer. Failure to load trailers heavier
in front is the cause of many trailer collisions.
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
overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading
can cause a loss of control, poor performance
or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transmis -
sion, steering, suspension, chassis structure
or tires.
CAUTION!
4

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 127

128STARTING AND OPERATING
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 249.
Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system
or vacuum system of your vehicle with that of
the trailer. This could cause inadequate braking
and possible personal injury.
An electronically actuated trailer brake
controller is required when towing a trailer with
electronically actuated brakes. When towing a
trailer equipped with a hydraulic surge actuated
brake system, an electronic brake controller is
not required.
Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers
over 1,000 lb (453 kg) and may be required for
any trailer, for example trailers in excess of 2,
000 lb (907 kg). Trailer brake requirements vary
by local law, consult local legal requirements
where the trailer is to be towed for trailer brake
requirements.

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!
WARNING!
Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's
hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your
brake system and cause it to fail. You might
not have brakes when you need them and
could have an accident.
Towing any trailer will increase your stopping
distance. When towing, you should allow for
additional space between your vehicle and the
vehicle in front of you. Failure to do so could
result in an accident.
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lb (453 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they
should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do
this could lead to accelerated brake lining wear,
higher brake pedal effort, and longer stopping
distances.

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 128

STARTING AND OPERATING129
Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And
Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer
size, stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are
required for motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four- and
seven-pin wiring harness. Use a factory approved
trailer harness and connector.
NOTE:Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring
harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to the
vehicle but you must mate the harness to a trailer
connector. Refer to the following illustrations.
NOTE:
Disconnect the trailer wiring connector from
the vehicle (or any other device plugged into
vehicle’s electrical connectors) before
launching a boat into water.

Be sure to reconnect after clear from water area.
Four-Pin Connector
Seven-Pin Connector

1 — Ground
2 — Tail Lamp
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Right Stop/Turn
1 — Backup Lamps
2 — Tail Lamp
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Ground
5 — Battery
6 — Right Stop/Turn
7 — Electric Brakes
4

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 129