2023 RAM PROMASTER heating

26GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
Swivel Seat — If Equipped
The swivel seat lever is located at the lower front
inboard side of the seat. The seat may be turned
through 180° toward the seat on the opposite side
and approximately 35° toward the door. The seat
may be locked in the driving position or at the
180° position. To swivel the seat, pull the swivel
seat inboard lever outward, turn the seat to the
desired position and release the lever.

Swivel Seat Lever

If the vehicle is equipped with interlocking swivel
seats, the seats must be locked in the facing
forward position while driving. If the seats are not
in the correct position, a warning will appear in the
instrument cluster display. If the driver or the passenger seats are not locked
in the facing forward position before the first
vehicle movement, shifting out of park is not
allowed until the seats are both locked in the
facing forward position. When the seats are not in
the right position and the first vehicle movement
after ignition START is attempted, a chime and a
message will appear in the instrument cluster
display. Rotate and lock the swivel seats in the
correct position before trying again.
If the driver or the passenger seats are not locked
in the facing forward position during movement
of the vehicle, a message will appear in the
instrument cluster display and an intermittent
chime will sound until key-off or until the swivel
seats are locked in the facing forward position.
Stop and move the swivel seats in the correct
position before proceeding.
If a fault is present in the system and it is not
possible to check the correct position of the swivel
seats, a message and the generic warning light
appears in the instrument cluster display to inform
about the failure. In these conditions, check the
status of the swivel seats and do not drive the
vehicle until the swivel seats are locked in the
facing forward position.
HEATED SEATS — IF EQUIPPED
On some models, the front driver and
passenger seats may be equipped with
heaters in both the seat cushions and
seatbacks. The controls for the front
heated seats are located on the lower outboard
side of the seat.

Heated Seat Switch

Push the switch once to turn on the heated seats.
Push the switch a second time to shut the heating
elements off.

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 26

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE41
NOTE:
For Manual Climate Controls, if the system is
in Mix, Floor or Defrost mode, the A/C can be
turned off, but the A/C system could remain
active to prevent fogging of the windows.
If fog or mist appears on the windshield or side
glass, select Defrost mode, and increase blower
speed if needed.
If your air conditioning performance seems
lower than expected, check the front of the A/C
condenser (located in front of the radiator), for
an accumulation of dirt or insects. Clean with a
gentle water spray from the front of the radiator
and through the condenser.
Recirculation Button

Press and release this button to change the
system between recirculation mode and
outside air mode. The Recirculation indicator
and the A/C indicator illuminate when the
Recirculation button is pressed. Recirculation can be
used when outside conditions such as smoke, odors,
dust, or high humidity are present. Recirculation can be
used in all modes except for Defrost. Recirculation may
be unavailable if conditions exist that could create
fogging on the inside of the windshield. The A/C can be deselected manually without disturbing the mode
control selection. Continuous use of the Recirculation
mode may make the inside air stuffy and window
fogging may occur. Extended use of this mode is not
recommended. Recirculation mode may automatically
adjust to optimize customer experience for warming,
cooling, dehumidification, etc.
On systems with Manual Climate Controls, if equipped,
the Recirculation mode is not allowed in Defrost mode
to improve window clearing operation. Recirculation
is disabled automatically if this mode is selected.
Attempting to use Recirculation while in this mode
causes the LED in the control button to blink and
then turns off.

MAX Defrost Button

Push the MAX Defrost button to change
the current airflow setting to Defrost mode.
The indicator illuminates when this feature is
on. Max defrost set maximum temperature
setting for best windshield and side window defrosting
and defogging. If MAX Defrost mode is turned off, the
Climate Control system will return to the previous
setting. Air comes from the windshield and side window
demist outlets.

Rear Defrost Button — If Equipped
Push and release the Rear Defrost
Control button to turn on the rear window
defroster and the heated outside mirrors
(if equipped). The Rear Defrost indicator
illuminates when the rear window defroster is on.
The rear window defroster automatically turns off
after 10 minutes the first time it is activated after
the first key cycle. If the key cycle is engaged again,
the rear window defroster will automatically turn
off 5 minutes after it is activated.
CAUTION!
Failure to follow these cautions can cause
damage to the heating elements:
Use care when washing the inside of the rear
window. Do not use abrasive window cleaners
on the interior surface of the window. Use a
soft cloth and a mild washing solution, wiping
parallel to the heating elements. Labels can
be peeled off after soaking with warm water.
Do not use scrapers, sharp instruments, or
abrasive window cleaners on the interior
surface of the window.
Keep all objects a safe distance from the
window.
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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48GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
WIRELESS CHARGING PAD —
I
F EQUIPPED

Wireless Charging Pad

Your vehicle may be equipped with a 15W 3A Qi
wireless charging pad located below the center
stack. This charging pad is designed to wirelessly
charge your Qi enabled mobile phone. Qi is a
standard that allows wireless charging of your
mobile phone.

Your mobile phone must be designed for Qi wireless
charging. If the phone is not equipped with Qi wireless
charging functionality, an aftermarket sleeve or a
specialized back plate can be purchased from your
mobile phone provider or a local electronics retailer.
Please see your phone’s owner’s manual for further
information.
The wireless charging pad is equipped with an
anti-slip mat to hold your mobile phone in place,
and an LED indicator light.
LED Indicator Status:
NOTE:Using a phone case may interfere with wireless
charging.
No Light: Charging pad is idle or searching for a
device.
Blue Light: Device is detected, and is charging.
Red Light/Flashing: Internal error, or foreign
object is detected.
Important Notes Regarding This Vehicle’s Wireless
Charging Pad:
With a compatible mobile phone placed on the
charging pad, when the ignition is switched to
the OFF position, a phone reminder message
will appear on the instrument cluster to warn
the customer.
Wireless charging is not as fast as when the
phone is connected to a wired charger.
The phone’s protective case must be removed
when placed on the wireless charging pad.
iPhone® 12 (including iPod®) is equipped with
software to protect the device from overheating.
When the software is active, the rate of charge
is slowed down to protect the device.
Phones must always be placed on the wireless
charging pad within the outline shown on the
pad so that its charging parts connect with the
charging coils of the system. Movement of the
phone during charging may prevent or slow the
rate of charge.
Having multiple applications open on the phone
while charging will reduce the charging effi -
ciency, and may even shut down an application
that is actively running (i.e. Apple CarPlay®).
This may also cause the phone to overheat.

Wireless chargers may implement certain methods
to prevent the phone from overheating during
charging such as slowing down the rate of charge.
In certain instances, the device may shut down for a
brief period of time (when the device reaches a
certain temperature). If this happens, it does not
mean there is a fault with the wireless charing pad.
This may just be a protective measure to prevent
damage to the phone.

CAUTION!
The key fob should not be placed on the
charging pad or within 6 inches (15 cm) of it.
Doing so can cause excessive heat buildup and
damage to the fob. Placing the fob in close
proximity of the charging pad blocks the fob from
being detected by the vehicle and prevents the
vehicle from starting.

23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 48

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.
4

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130STARTING AND OPERATING
TOWING TIPS
Before towing, practice turning, stopping, and
backing up the trailer in an area located away from
heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission

The DRIVE range can be selected when towing.
The transmission controls include a drive strategy to
avoid frequent shifting when towing. However, if
frequent shifting does occur while in DRIVE, select
TOW/HAUL mode or select a lower gear range (using
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control).

NOTE:Using TOW/HAUL mode or selecting a lower gear
range (using the ERS shift control) while operating
the vehicle under heavy loading conditions will
improve performance and extend transmission life
by reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
This action will also provide better engine braking.
When towing a loaded trailer up steep grades at
low speeds, holding your vehicle in FIRST gear
(using the ERS shift control) can help to avoid
transmission overheating.Tow/Haul Mode
To reduce potential for automatic transmission
overheating, activate TOW/HAUL mode when
driving in hilly areas, or select a lower gear range
(using the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift
control) on more severe grades.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
When using the Cruise Control, if you experience
speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h),
disengage until you can get back to cruising
speed.
Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with light
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME)
TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE
Towing Condition Wheels OFF the Ground Automatic Transmission
Flat Tow NONENOT ALLOWED
Dolly Tow Front
OK
Rear NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer ALLOK
NOTE:When towing your vehicle, always follow applicable state and provincial laws. Contact state and provincial Highway Safety offices for additional details.

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192SAFETY
(Continued)
EXHAUST GAS
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry
into the vehicle body is a properly maintained
engine exhaust system.Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the
exhaust system, when exhaust fumes can be
detected inside the vehicle, or when the underside
or rear of the vehicle is damaged, have an
authorized dealer inspect the complete exhaust
system and adjacent body areas for broken,
damaged, deteriorated, or mispositioned parts.
Open seams or loose connections could permit
exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger
compartment. In addition, inspect the exhaust
system each time the vehicle is raised for
lubrication or oil change. Replace as required.
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNINGS
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain
carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless
and odorless. Breathing it can make you
unconscious and can eventually poison you.
To avoid breathing (CO), follow these safety tips:
Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in
confined areas any longer than needed to
move your vehicle in or out of the area.
If you are required to drive with the trunk/lift
-
gate/rear doors open, make sure that all
windows are closed and the climate control
BLOWER switch is set at high speed. DO NOT
use the recirculation mode.
If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with
the engine running, adjust your heating or
cooling controls to force outside air into the
vehicle. Set the blower at high speed.
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is
deadly. Follow the precautions below to prevent
carbon monoxide poisoning:

Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain carbon
monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, which can
kill. Never run the engine in a closed area, such as
a garage, and never sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running for an extended period. If the
vehicle is stopped in an open area with the engine
running for more than a short period, adjust the
ventilation system to force fresh, outside air into
the vehicle.

Guard against carbon monoxide with proper
maintenance. Have the exhaust system
inspected every time the vehicle is raised.
Have any abnormal conditions repaired
promptly. Until repaired, drive with all side
windows fully open.
When exiting the vehicle, always make sure
the ignition is in the OFF position, remove the
key fob from the vehicle, and lock your vehicle.
WARNING!

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216IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
4. Disconnect the opposite end of the positive (+)
jumper cable from the remote positive (+) post
of the discharged vehicle, and reinstall the
protective cap.
5. Close the cover of the Front Power Distribution Center.
If frequent jump starting is required to start your
vehicle you should have the battery and charging
system inspected at an authorized dealer.
BATTERY LOCATION
There are two remote jump starting posts under
the hood which is the recommended jump start
location. If access to the battery is needed, an
access panel on the driver’s side floor will allow for
battery access.
Battery Access Panel
Battery Location

IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
If the vehicle is overheating, it will need to be
serviced by an authorized dealer.
In any of the following situations, you can reduce
the potential for overheating by taking the
appropriate action.
On the highways — slow down.
In city traffic — while stopped, place the trans -
mission in NEUTRAL (N), but do not increase the
engine idle speed while preventing vehicle
motion with the brakes.
NOTE:There are steps that you can take to slow down an
impending overheat condition:
If your Air Conditioner (A/C) is on, turn it off.
The A/C system adds heat to the engine cooling
system and turning the A/C off can help remove
this heat.
You can also turn the temperature control to
maximum heat, the mode control to floor and
the blower control to high. This allows the heater
core to act as a supplement to the radiator and
aids in removing heat from the engine cooling
system.
CAUTION!
Accessories plugged into the vehicle power
outlets draw power from the vehicle’s battery,
even when not in use (i.e., cellular devices, etc.).
Eventually, if plugged in long enough without
engine operation, the vehicle’s battery will
discharge sufficiently to degrade battery life
and/or prevent the engine from starting.

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