GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE39
Windshield Wiper/Washer Lever
WINDSHIELD WIPER OPERATION
Rotate the windshield wiper knob to one of the first
two detent positions for intermittent settings, the
third detent for low wiper operation and the fourth
for high wiper operation.
Windshield Washers
To use the washer, pull the windshield wiper/washer
lever toward the steering wheel to activate. The wipers
will activate automatically for three cycles after the
lever is released, and then resume the intermittent
interval previously selected. If the lever is pulled while in the off position, the wipers
will operate for three cycles and then turn off.
Mist
Use the Mist feature when weather conditions
make occasional usage of the wipers necessary.
Push the lever upward to the MIST position and
release for a single wiping cycle.NOTE:The mist feature does not activate the washer
pump; therefore, no washer fluid will be sprayed on
the windshield. The washer function must be used
in order to spray the windshield with washer fluid.
For information on wiper care and replacement,
see Ú
page 231.
RAIN SENSING WIPERS — IF EQUIPPED
This feature senses moisture on the windshield and
automatically activates the wipers. Rotate the end of
the multifunction lever to one of two detent positions
for intermittent settings to activate this feature.
NOTE:If the windshield wiper lever is rotated from the
O (off) position to the first intermittent setting or
from the first intermittent setting to the second
intermittent setting, the wipers will perform an
immediate wipe cycle to clean the windshield.
The sensitivity of the system can be adjusted with
the windshield wiper lever. Wiper delay position
one is the least sensitive, and wiper delay position
two is the most sensitive. Place the wiper switch in
the O (off) position when not using the system.
NOTE:
The Rain Sensing feature will not operate when the
wiper switch is in the low or high-speed position.
The Rain Sensing feature may not function prop -
erly when ice, or dried salt water is present on
the windshield.
Use of products containing wax or silicone may
reduce Rain Sensing performance.
The Rain Sensing feature can be turned on and
off using the Uconnect system Ú page 134.
1 — Pull Back For Front Washer
2 — Rotate For Intermittent Settings
3 — Push Upward For Mist
WARNING!
Sudden loss of visibility through the windshield
could lead to a collision. You might not see other
vehicles or other obstacles. To avoid sudden
icing of the windshield during freezing weather,
warm the windshield with the defroster before
and during windshield washer use.2
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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE43
Climate Control OFF Button
Press and release this button to turn the
Climate Control ON/OFF.
ADDITIONAL REAR CLIMATE CONTROL —
I
F EQUIPPED
These switches, mounted on the instrument panel
to the left of the steering column, activate the
additional rear heating/air conditioning system.
NOTE:These switches must be enabled for operation by
the Upfitter.
Additional Rear Climate Controls Switches
Rear Blower Control
Push this button to turn on the rear climate
controls. An indicator light will turn on when
the rear climate control is on.
OPERATING TIPS
Refer to the chart at the end of this section for
suggested control settings for various weather
conditions.
Summer Operation
The engine cooling system must be protected
with a high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide
proper corrosion protection and to protect against
engine overheating. OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) is recommended.
Winter Operation
To ensure the best possible heater and defroster
performance, make sure the engine cooling
system is functioning properly and the proper
amount, type, and concentration of coolant is
used. Use of the Air Recirculation mode during
Winter months is not recommended, because it
may cause window fogging.
Vacation Storage
For information on maintaining the Climate Control
system when the vehicle is being stored for an
extended period of time, see Ú page 265.
Window Fogging
Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in mild, rainy,
and/or humid weather. To clear the windows, select
Defrost or Mix mode and increase the front blower
speed. Do not use the Recirculation mode without A/C
for long periods, as fogging may occur.
Outside Air Intake
Make sure the air intake, located directly in front of
the windshield, is free of obstructions, such as
leaves. Leaves collected in the air intake may
reduce airflow, and if they enter the air distribution
box, they could plug the water drains. In Winter
months, make sure the air intake is clear of ice,
slush, and snow.
Cabin Air Filter
The Climate Control system filters out dust and
pollen from the air. Contact an authorized dealer to
service your cabin air filter, and to have it replaced
when needed.
2
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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE47
POWER INVERTER — IF EQUIPPED
There is a 115 Volt, 150 Watt inverter outlet
located on the instrument panel, to the right of
the radio, to convert DC current to AC current.
This outlet can power cellular phones, electronics
and other low power devices requiring power up to
150 Watts. Certain game consoles will exceed this
power limit, as will most power tools.
Power Inverter Location
To turn on the power inverter outlet, simply plug in
the device. The outlet automatically turns off when
the device is unplugged.
The power inverter is designed with built-in overload
protection. If the power rating of 150 Watts is
exceeded, the power inverter will automatically shut
down. Once the electrical device has been removed
from the outlet the inverter should automatically reset.
To avoid overloading the circuit, check the power
ratings on electrical devices prior to using the inverter.
AUXILIARY SWITCHES — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with two auxiliary
switches located on the instrument panel to the
left of the steering column which can be used to
power various electronic devices. Connections to
the switches are found in the right central pillar
fuse panel at the base of the passenger side
B-pillar.
Auxiliary Switches
Auxiliary Switch 1 is configured to constant battery
feed, while Auxiliary Switch 2 is configured to
ignition feed.
For further information on using the auxiliary
switches, please refer to the Ram Body Builder’s
Guide by accessing
www.rambodybuilder.com
and choosing the appropriate links.
After the use of high power draw accessories, or
long periods of the vehicle not being started (with
accessories still plugged in), the vehicle must be
driven a sufficient length of time to allow the
generator to recharge the vehicle's battery.
CAUTION!
WARNING!
To avoid serious injury or death:
Do not insert any objects into the receptacles.
Do not touch with wet hands.
Close the lid when not in use.
If this outlet is mishandled, it may cause an
electric shock and failure.
2
23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 47
56GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
Your vehicle will be equipped with an instrument
cluster display, which offers useful information
to the driver. With the ignition in the OFF mode,
opening/closing of a door will activate the display
for viewing, and display the total miles, or
kilometers, in the odometer. Your instrument
cluster display is designed to display important
information about your vehicle’s systems and
features. Using a driver interactive display located
on the instrument panel, your instrument cluster
display can show you how systems are working and
give you warnings when they are not. The steering
wheel mounted controls allow you to scroll through
the main menus and submenus. You can access
the specific information you want and make
selections and adjustments.
LOCATION AND CONTROLS
The instrument cluster display features a driver
interactive display that is located in the instrument
cluster.
Instrument Cluster Display and Controls
This system allows the driver to select a variety
of useful information by pushing the switches
mounted on the instrument panel. Examples of
menu items are:
Buzzer Volume
Exit Menu
If equipped with a Uconnect system, some
customer programmable features will display in
the radio Ú page 134. The system allows the driver to select information
by pushing the following buttons mounted on the
instrument panel to the left of the steering column:
Instrument Cluster Display Control Buttons
Left Arrow Button
Push and release the left arrow button to
access the information screens or submenu
screens of a main menu item.
CAUTION!
The simultaneous illumination of multiple safety
warning lights can signal the failure of the
instrument cluster display. If this happens
contact an authorized dealer
1 — Instrument Cluster Display Screen
2 — Instrument Cluster Display Controls
1 — Left Arrow Button
2 — Up Arrow Button
3 — Right Arrow Button
4 — Down Arrow Button
5 — OK Button
23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 56
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL67
Drowsy Driver Detected Warning Light —
If Equipped
Drowsy driver detection helps to avoid
crashes caused by fatigue by advising
drivers to take a break in time. Once a
Drowsy Driver is detected, A pop-up will
display continuously until the driver presses the
OK button to clear.
Once the pop-up message is cleared, it is stored
until the condition is no longer true.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault
Warning Light
This warning light will turn on when
there's a fault with the EPS system
Ú page 85.
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning
Light
This warning light will illuminate to inform of
a problem with the ETC system. If a problem
is detected while the vehicle is running, the
light will either stay on or flash depending on
the nature of the problem. Cycle the ignition when
the vehicle is safely and completely stopped and the
transmission is placed in the PARK (P) position.
The light should turn off. If the light remains on with the
vehicle running, your vehicle will usually be drivable;
however, see an authorized dealer for service as soon
as possible.
If the light continues to flash when the vehicle is
running, immediate service is required and you may
experience reduced performance, an elevated/
rough idle, or engine stall and your vehicle may
require towing. The light will come on when the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or MAR/ON/RUN
position and remain on briefly as a bulb check. If the
light does not come on during starting, have the
system checked by an authorized dealer.
Engine Temperature Warning Light
This light warns of an overheated
engine condition. If the engine coolant
temperature is too high, this indicator will
illuminate and a single chime will sound.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over and
stop the vehicle. If the Air Conditioning (A/C) system is
on, turn it off. Also, shift the transmission into NEUTRAL
and idle the vehicle. If the temperature reading does
not return to normal, turn the engine off immediately
and call for service
Ú
page 216.
Generic Warning Light
The Generic Warning Light will illuminate
to signal the failure of one or more safety
warning lights with a corresponding
message. The safety systems that may
cause the Generic Warning Light to illuminate
include but are not limited too: Seat belt Reminder,
Electric Park Brake, Brakes, Air Bag, and Swivel
Seat failure.
The telltale will remain on in case of swivel seat
failure and will blink in case of Air Bag Warning
Light Failure. Contact an authorized dealer
immediately for service.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could
pose a safety risk to yourself and others. Service
should be obtained as soon as possible.
3
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70GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Service Active Lane Management Warning
Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
Active Lane Management system is not
operating and requires service. Please
see an authorized dealer.
Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to
indicate a fault in the FCW System or an
external blockage on the frontal camera.
Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Service Required/Call For Service Warning
Light
This warning light will illuminate when
service is needed. A pop-up will appear in
the display to signal the need for service.
Contact an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
Speed Limiter Fail Warning Light —
If Equipped
This light will illuminate when there is a
failure in the speed limiter system.
Swivel Seat (Driver or Passenger) Fail
Warning Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the driver
or passenger swivel seat fails.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light
The warning light switches on and a
message is displayed to indicate that
the tire pressure is lower than the
recommended value and/or that slow
pressure loss is occurring. In these cases, optimal
tire duration and fuel consumption may not be
guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition
mentioned previously, the display will show the
indications corresponding to each tire.
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation
pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer
on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label.
If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label, you should determine the proper tire
inflation pressure for those tires.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter can reach
higher temperatures than in normal operating
conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive
slowly or park over flammable substances such
as dry plants, wood, cardboard, etc. This could
result in death or serious injury to the driver,
occupants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause damage to the
vehicle control system. It also could affect fuel
economy and driveability. If the MIL is flashing,
severe catalytic converter damage and power
loss will soon occur. Immediate service is
required.
WARNING!
Do not continue driving with one or more flat
tires as handling may be compromised. Stop the
vehicle, avoiding sharp braking and steering. If a
tire puncture occurs, repair immediately using
the dedicated tire repair kit and contact an
authorized dealer as soon as possible.
23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 70
78STARTING AND OPERATING
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS
A long break-in period is not required for the engine and
drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km).
After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or
55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within
the limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good
break-in. Wide-open throttle acceleration in low
gear can be detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory
is a high-quality energy conserving type lubricant.
Oil changes should be consistent with anticipated
climate conditions under which vehicle operations
will occur. For the recommended viscosity and
quality grades see Úpage 273.
NOTE:A new engine may consume some oil during its first
few thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This
should be considered a normal part of the break-in
and not interpreted as a problem. Please check
your oil level with the engine oil indicator often
during the break-in period. Add oil as required.
PARKING BRAKE
ELECTRIC PARK BRAKE (EPB)
Your vehicle is equipped with an EPB that offers
simple operation, and some additional features
that make the parking brake more convenient and
useful.
The parking brake is primarily intended to prevent
the vehicle from rolling while parked. Before
leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking
brake is applied. Also, be certain to leave the
transmission in PARK.
You can engage the parking brake in two ways:
Manually, by applying the parking brake switch.
Automatically, by enabling the Auto Park Brake
feature in the Customer Programmable
Features section of the Uconnect settings.
The parking brake switch is located on the
instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel
(below the headlamp switch).
Electric Park Brake Switch
To apply the parking brake manually, pull up on the
switch momentarily. You may hear a slight sound
from the back of the vehicle while the parking brake
engages. Once the park brake is fully engaged, the
Brake Warning Light in the instrument cluster and an
indicator on the switch will illuminate. If your foot is on
the brake pedal while you apply the parking brake, you
may notice a small amount of brake pedal movement.
The parking brake can be applied even when the
ignition switch is OFF but the Brake Warning Light will
not illuminate, however, it can only be released when
the ignition is in the ON/RUN position.
NOTE:The EPB Warning Light will illuminate if the EPB
switch is held for longer than 20 seconds in either
the released or applied position. The light will extin -
guish upon releasing the switch.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral
Oil in the engine or damage may result.
23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 78
STARTING AND OPERATING85
NOTE:Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit an authorized dealer at
your earliest possible convenience. An authorized
dealer has diagnostic equipment to assess the
condition of your transmission. If the transmission
cannot be reset, authorized dealer service is
required.
Electronic Range Select (ERS) Operation
The ERS shift control allows the driver to select the max
gear limit. For example, if you set the transmission gear
limit to FOURTH gear, the transmission will not shift
above FOURTH gear, but will shift through the lower
gears normally.
You can switch between DRIVE and ERS mode at any
vehicle speed. When the gear selector is in the DRIVE
position, the transmission will operate automatically,
shifting between all available gears. Moving the gear
selector to the ERS position (beside DRIVE) will activate
ERS mode, display the current gear in the instrument
cluster, and set that gear as the max gear limit. Once in
ERS mode, moving the gear selector forward “-” or
rearward “+” will change the max gear limit.
NOTE:The transmission will still continue to use the
optimal highest gear, for the current driving condi -
tions, within the selected gear range limit.
To exit ERS mode, simply return the gear selector
to the DRIVE position.
NOTE:To select the proper gear position for maximum
deceleration (engine braking), move the gear
selector into the ERS position, then tap it forward
“-” repeatedly as the vehicle slows. The trans -
mission will shift to the range from which the
vehicle can best be slowed down.
When To Use TOW/HAUL Mode
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying a
heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission shifting
occurs, push the TOW/HAUL switch to activate
TOW/HAUL mode. This will improve performance and
reduce the potential for transmission overheating or
failure due to excessive shifting. When operating in
TOW/HAUL mode, transmission upshifts are delayed,
and the transmission will automatically downshift
(for engine braking) during steady braking maneuvers.
The TOW/HAUL Indicator Light will illuminate in the
instrument cluster to indicate that TOW/HAUL
mode has been activated. Pushing the switch a
second time restores normal operation. Normal operation is always the default at engine start-up.
If TOW/HAUL mode is desired, the switch must be
pushed each time the engine is started.
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 the 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 Ú
page 56.
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 the dealer for service Ú page 56.
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine braking
on a slippery surface. The drive wheels could
lose their grip and the vehicle could skid,
causing a collision or personal injury.
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