engine overheat RAM PROMASTER 2022 Owners Manual

5
SAFETY TIPS ........................................................ 172 Transporting Passengers .............................. 172Transporting Pets ......................................... 173
Connected Vehicles....................................... 173
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside
The Vehicle ................................................... 173Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make
Outside The Vehicle ...................................... 174Exhaust Gas ................................................... 175Carbon Monoxide Warnings ......................... 175
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS ......................... 176
SOS AND ASSIST SYSTEM ................................. 176
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING.......................... 180
Preparations For Jacking .............................. 180Jack Location — If Equipped ......................... 181Spare Tire Removal ....................................... 182
Jacking Instructions ...................................... 184Wheel Covers ................................................. 187
TIRE SERVICE KIT — IF EQUIPPED ..................... 187
Tire Service Kit Storage ................................ 187
Tire Service Kit Components And
Operation ....................................................... 187
Tire Service Kit Usage Precautions .............. 188
Sealing A Tire With Tire Service Kit .............. 189
JUMP STARTING................................................... 192
Preparations For Jump Start......................... 192Jump Starting Procedure .............................. 193Battery Location ............................................ 194 IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS .......................... 194
GEAR SELECTOR OVERRIDE ............................. 195
FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE .............................. 196
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE ......................... 196 Automatic Transmission ............................... 197
ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE
SYSTEM (EARS) ................................................... 197
EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ........................ 197
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING ................................... 198
Maintenance Plan ......................................... 199
ENGINE COMPARTMENT .................................... 202
3.6L Engine .................................................. 202
Checking Oil Level ......................................... 203
Adding Washer Fluid ..................................... 203
Maintenance-Free Battery ........................... 204Pressure Washing ......................................... 204
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE..................................... 204
Engine Oil ....................................................... 205
Engine Oil Filter ............................................. 205Engine Air Cleaner Filter .............................. 205Air Conditioner Maintenance ....................... 206
Body Lubrication ........................................... 207Windshield Wiper Blades ............................. 207
Exhaust System ............................................ 208
Cooling System .............................................. 209
Brake System ............................................... 211
Automatic Transmission ............................... 212 Fuses.............................................................. 213
Bulb Replacement ....................................... 220
TIRES .................................................................... 225
Tire Safety Information ................................ 225Tires — General Information ......................... 233
Tire Types....................................................... 236Spare Tires — If Equipped ............................ 237
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care ........................ 239Snow Traction Devices ................................. 240
Tire Rotation Recommendations ................. 241
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM
TIRE QUALITY GRADES ...................................... 242
Treadwear...................................................... 242
Traction Grades ............................................. 242Temperature Grades..................................... 242
STORING THE VEHICLE ...................................... 243
BODYWORK .......................................................... 243
Protection From Atmospheric Agents .......... 243
Body And Underbody Maintenance ............. 243
Preserving The Bodywork ............................. 244
INTERIORS ........................................................... 244
Seats And Fabric Parts ................................. 244
Plastic And Coated Parts .............................. 245
Leather Surfaces........................................... 245
Glass Surfaces ............................................. 246Cleaning The Instrument Panel
Cupholders .................................................... 246

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 5

42GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
Defrost Mode

Air comes from the windshield and side
window demist outlets. When the defrost
button is selected, the blower level may
increase. Use Defrost mode with maximum
temperature settings for best windshield and side
window defrosting and defogging. When toggling the
front defrost mode button, the Climate Control system
will return to the previous setting.

Mix Mode
Air is directed through the floor, defrost,
and side window demister outlets.
This setting works best in cold or snowy
conditions that require extra heat to the
windshield. This setting is good for maintaining
comfort while reducing moisture on the
windshield.
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. A solution of 50% OAT (Organic
Additive Technology) coolant that meets the
requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032
and 50% water is recommended Ú page 251.
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 Úpage 243.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 42

52GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
BASE / MIDLINE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
D
ESCRIPTIONS

1. Speedometer

Indicates vehicle speed.
2. Instrument Cluster Display
The instrument cluster display features a
driver interactive display Ú page 55.
3. Tachometer
Indicates the engine speed in revolutions
per minute (RPM x 1000).
4. Fuel Gauge
The gauge shows the level of fuel in the
fuel tank when the ignition switch is in the
ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to
the side of the vehicle where the
fuel door is located. 5. Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge shows engine
coolant temperature. Any reading within the
normal range indicates that the engine
cooling system is operating satisfactorily.
The gauge pointer will likely indicate a
higher temperature when driving in hot
weather or up mountain grades. It should
not be allowed to exceed the upper limits of
the normal operating range.
NOTE:The hard telltales will illuminate for a bulb check
when the ignition is first cycled.
WARNING!

A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or
others could be badly burned by steam or boiling
coolant. It is recommended to call an authorized
dealer for service if your vehicle overheats


Ú
page 209.

CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could
damage your vehicle. If the temperature gauge
reads “H” pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle the
vehicle with the air conditioner turned off until
the pointer drops back into the normal range.
If the pointer remains on the “H”, turn the
engine off immediately and call an authorized
dealer for service.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 52

54GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS

1. Tachometer

This gauge measures engine revolutions
per minute (RPM x 1000). Before the
pointer reaches the red area, ease up on
the accelerator to prevent engine damage.
2. Instrument Cluster Display
When the appropriate conditions exist, this
display shows instrument cluster display
messages Ú page 55.
Odometer/Trip Odometer Display Area

US Federal regulations require that upon
transfer of vehicle ownership, the seller certify
to the purchaser the correct mileage that the
vehicle has been driven. If your odometer needs
to be repaired or serviced, the repair technician
should leave the odometer reading the same as
it was before the repair or service. If the techni -
cian cannot do so, then the odometer must be
set at zero, and a sticker must be placed in the
door jamb stating what the mileage was before
the repair or service. It is a good idea for you to
make a record of the odometer reading before
the repair/service, so that you can be sure that
it is properly reset, or that the door jamb sticker
is accurate if the odometer must be reset at
zero.

Gear Selector Status (PRND)

The gear selector status “P, R, N, D, 1, 2, 3, 4,
etc.” are displayed indicating the gear selector
position. Telltales “1, 2, 3, 4, etc.” indicate the
manual mode has been engaged and the gear
selected is displayed
Ú
page 73.

3. Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge shows engine
coolant temperature. Any reading within the
normal range indicates that the engine
cooling system is operating satisfactorily.
The pointer will likely indicate a higher
temperature when driving in hot weather
or up mountain grades. It should not be
allowed to exceed the upper limits of the
normal operating range. 4. Fuel GaugeThe pointer shows the level of fuel in the
fuel tank when the ignition switch is in the
ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to
the side of the vehicle where the
fuel door is located Ú page 108.
5. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or
others could be badly burned by steam or boiling
coolant. You may want to call an authorized
dealer for service if your vehicle overheats.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could
damage your vehicle. If the temperature gauge
reads “H,” pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle the
vehicle with the air conditioner turned off until
the pointer drops back into the normal range. If
the pointer remains on the “H,” turn the engine
off immediately and call an authorized dealer for
service.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 54

60GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
The light also will turn on when the parking brake
is applied with the ignition switch in the ON/RUN
position.
NOTE:This light shows only that the parking brake is
applied. It does not show the degree of brake
application.
Battery Charge Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the
battery is not charging properly. If it stays
on while the engine is running, there may
be a malfunction with the charging
system. Contact an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
This indicates a possible problem with the
electrical system or a related component.
Door Open Warning Light

This indicator will illuminate when one or
more door(s) are not fully closed. A pop-up
appears on the instrument cluster display
showing which door is open.

NOTE:If the vehicle is moving and a door is opened, there
will also be a single chime.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault
Warning Light
This warning light will turn on when
there's a fault with the EPS system
Ú page 78.
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 194.

Hood Open Warning Light
The telltale turns on when the hood is not
properly closed. Along with the icon, an
image of the vehicle with an open hood
cap appears on the display.
Close the hood properly.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could
pose a safety risk to yourself and others. Service
should be obtained as soon as possible.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 60

78STARTING AND OPERATING
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 55. 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 55.NOTE:

Even if the power steering system is no longer
operational, 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.
Instrument
Cluster
Display 1
23456789D
Actual
Gear(s)
Allowed 1 1–2 1–3 1–4 1–5 1–6 1–7 1–8 1–9 1–9

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 78

86STARTING AND OPERATING
NOTE:
If your vehicle is at standstill longer than two
seconds, the driver will either have to push the
RES (resume) button, or apply the accelerator
pedal to reengage the Adaptive Cruise Control
(ACC) to the existing set speed.
ACC cannot be resumed if there is a stationary
vehicle in front of your vehicle in close proximity.
To Vary The Speed Setting
To Increase Or Decrease The Set Speed
After setting a speed, you can increase the set
speed by pushing the SET (+) button, or decrease
speed by pushing the SET (-) button. U.S. Speed (mph)
Pushing the SET (+)
, or SET (-) button once will
result in a 1 mph speed adjustment. Each
subsequent tap of the button results in an
adjustment of 1 mph.

If the button is continually pushed, the set speed
will continue to adjust in 5 mph increments until
the button is released. The new set speed is
reflected in the instrument cluster display.

Metric Speed (km/h)
Pushing the SET (+) , or SET (-) button once will
result in a 1 km/h speed adjustment. Each
subsequent tap of the button results in an
adjustment of 1 km/h.

If the button is continually pushed, the set speed
will continue to adjust in 10 km/h increments
until the button is released. The new set speed is
reflected in the instrument cluster display.

NOTE:When you override and push the SET (+) button or
SET (-) button, the new set speed will be the current
speed of the vehicle.
When ACC Is Active

When you use the SET (-) button to decelerate, if
the engine’s braking power does not slow the
vehicle sufficiently to reach the set speed, the
brake system will automatically slow the vehicle.

The ACC system decelerates the vehicle to a full
stop when following the vehicle in front. If your
vehicle follows the vehicle in front to a standstill,
after two seconds 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.
The ACC system maintains set speed when
driving uphill and downhill. However, a slight
speed change on moderate hills is normal.
In addition, downshifting may occur while
climbing uphill or descending downhill. This is
normal operation and necessary to maintain set
speed. When driving uphill and downhill, the
ACC system will cancel if the braking tempera -
ture exceeds normal range (overheated).
Setting The Following Distance In ACC
The specified following distance for ACC can be set
by varying the distance setting between four bars
(longest), three bars (long), two bars (medium) and
one bar (short). Using this distance setting and
the vehicle speed, ACC calculates and sets the
distance to the vehicle ahead. This distance
setting will show in the instrument cluster display.
WARNING!

The Resume function should only be used if traffic
and road conditions permit. Resuming a set speed
that is too high or too low for prevailing traffic and
road conditions could cause the vehicle to
accelerate or decelerate too sharply for safe
operation. Failure to follow these warnings can result
in a collision and death or serious personal injury.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 86

116STARTING AND OPERATING
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.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 116

194IN 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.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 194

196IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE
If your vehicle becomes stuck in mud, sand, or
snow, it can often be moved using a rocking
motion. Turn the steering wheel right and left to
clear the area around the front wheels. Shift back
and forth between DRIVE (D) and REVERSE (R),
while gently pressing the accelerator. Use the least
amount of accelerator pedal pressure that will
maintain the rocking motion, without spinning the
wheels or racing the engine.
NOTE:Push the ESC OFF button, to place the Electronic
Stability Control System (ESC) in “Partial OFF”
mode, before rocking the vehicle Ú page 138.
Once the vehicle has been freed, push the ESC OFF
button again to restore “ESC ON” mode.
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE

This section describes procedures for towing a disabled
vehicle using a commercial towing service.

CAUTION!

Racing the engine or spinning the wheels may lead
to transmission overheating and failure. Allow the
engine to idle with the transmission in NEUTRAL for
at least one minute after every five rocking-motion
cycles. This will minimize overheating and reduce the
risk of transmission failure during prolonged efforts
to free a stuck vehicle.

WARNING!

Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces
generated by excessive wheel speeds may cause
damage, or even failure, of the axle and tires. A tire
could explode and injure someone. Do not spin your
vehicle's wheels faster than 30 mph (48 km/h) or for
longer than 30 seconds continuously without
stopping when you are stuck and do not let anyone
near a spinning wheel, no matter what the speed.

CAUTION!
When “rocking” a stuck vehicle by shifting
between DRIVE and REVERSE, do not spin the
wheels faster than 15 mph (24 km/h), or
drivetrain damage may result.
Spinning the wheels too fast may lead to
transmission overheating and failure. It can
also damage the tires. Do not spin the wheels
above 30 mph (48 km/h) while in gear
(no transmission shifting occurring).
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.

22_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 196