JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2012 WK2 / 4.G Owners Manual

•Normal Ride Height (NRH)– This is the standard
position of the suspension and is meant for normal
driving.
•Off-Road 1 (OR1) (Raises the vehicle approximately
1.3 in (33 mm) – This position should be the default
position for all off-road driving until OR2 is needed. A
smoother and more comfortable ride will result. Press
the “Up” button once from the NRH position while the
vehicle speed is below 38 mph (61 km/h). When in the
OR1 position, if the vehicle speed remains between
40 mph (64 km/h) and 50 mph (80 km/h) for greater
than 20 seconds or if the vehicle speed exceeds 50 mph
(80 km/h), the vehicle will be automatically lowered
to NRH. Refer to “Off-Road Driving Tips” in “Starting
and Operating” for further information.
•Off-Road 2 (OR2) (Raises the vehicle approximately
2.6 in (65 mm) – This position is intended for off-
roading use only where maximum ground clearance is required. To enter OR2, press the “Up” button twice
from the NRH position or once from the OR1 position
while vehicle speed is below 20 mph (32 km/h). While
in OR2, if the vehicle speed exceeds 25 mph (40 km/h)
the vehicle height will be automatically lowered to
OR1. Refer to “Off-Road Driving Tips” in “Starting
and Operating” for further information.
•Aero Mode (Lowers the vehicle approximately 0.5 in
(13 mm)
– This position provides improved aerody-
namics by lowering the vehicle. The vehicle will
automatically enter Aero Mode when the vehicle
speed remains between 62 mph (99 km/h) and 66 mph
(106 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or if the vehicle
speed exceeds 66 mph (106 km/h). 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). The vehicle will
enter Aero Mode, regardless of vehicle speed if the
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Selec-Terrain™ knob is turned to the “SPORT” posi-
tion. Turning the Selec-Terrain™ knob to the “AUTO”
position will return the system to normal operation.
•Park Mode (Lowers the vehicle approximately 1.5 in
(38 mm)– This position lowers the vehicle for easier
passenger entry and exit as well as lowering the rear of
the vehicle for easier loading and unloading of cargo.
To enter Park Mode, press the “Down” button once
while the vehicle speed is below 25 mph (40 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 Park Mode
change will be cancelled. To exit Park Mode, press the
“Up” button once while in Park Mode or drive the
vehicle over 15 mph (24 km/h). The Selec-Terrain™ switch will automatically change the
vehicle to the proper height based on the position of the
Selec-Terrain™ switch. The height can be changed from
the default Selec-Terrain™ setting by normal use of the
air suspension buttons. Refer to “Selec-Terrain™” in
“Starting and Operating” for further information.
The system requires that the engine be running for all
changes. When lowering the vehicle all of the doors,
including the liftgate, 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.
The Quadra-Lift™ air suspension 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.
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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 Quadra-Lift™ air
suspension system has a feature which allows the auto-
matic leveling to be disabled. Press and hold both the
“Up” and “Down” buttons simultaneously between 5
and 10 seconds, a message will appear in the EVIC
stating leveling has been disabled immediately after both
buttons have been released. Refer to “Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC)” in “Understanding Your
Instrument Panel” for further information. Driving the
vehicle over 5 mph (8 km/h) will return the air suspen-
sion to normal operation. Refer to “Jacking and Tire
Changing” in “What To Do In Emergencies” for further
information.WARNING!
The air suspension system uses a high pressure
volume of air to operate the system. To avoid per-
sonal injury or damage to the system, see your
authorized dealer for service.
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
Display Messages
When the appropriate conditions exist, a message will
appear in the EVIC display. Refer to “Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC)” in “Understanding Your
Instrument Panel” for further information.
An audible chime will be heard whenever a system error
has been detected.5
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Operation
The indicator lamps 3 through 6 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 on the “Up” button, the highest flashing indica-
tor lamp is the position the system is working to achieve.
When lowering, if multiple indicators are flashing on the
Upbutton the lowest solid indicator lamp is the posi-
tion the system is working to achieve.
Pressing the “UP” button once will move the suspension
one position higher from the current position, assuming
all conditions are met (i.e. engine running, speed below
threshold, etc). The “UP” button can be pressed multiple
times, each press 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). Pressing the “DOWN” button once will move the sus-
pension one position lower from the current level, as-
suming all conditions are met (i.e. engine running, doors
closed, speed below threshold, etc). The “DOWN” button
can be pressed multiple times. Each press will lower the
requested level by one position down to a minimum of
Park 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 EVIC messages will operate the same for automatic
changes and user requested changes.
•Off-Road 2 (OR2) – Indicator lamps 4, 5, and 6 will be
illuminated when the vehicle is in OR2.
•Off-Road 1 (OR1) – Indicator lamps 4 and 5 will be
illuminated when the vehicle is in OR1.
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•Normal Ride Height (NRH) – Indicator lamp 4 will be
illuminated when the vehicle is in this position.
•Park Mode – Indicator lamp 3 will be illuminated
when the vehicle is in Park Mode. If Park Mode is
requested while vehicle speed is between 15 mph
(24 km/h) and 25 mph (40 km/h), indicator lamp 4
will remain on solid and indicator lamp 3 will flash as
the system waits for the vehicle to reduce speed. If
vehicle speed is reduced to, and kept below, 15 mph
(24 km/h) indicator lamp 4 will turn off and indicator
lamp 3 will flash until Park Mode is achieved at which
point indicator lamp 3 will go solid. If during the
height change to Park Mode, the vehicle speed exceeds
15 mph (24 km/h), the height change will be paused
until the vehicle speed either goes below 15 mph
(24 km/h) and the height change continues to Park
Mode, or exceeds 25 mph (40 km/h) and the vehicle
height will return to NRH. Park Mode may be selectedwhile the vehicle is not moving provided that the
engine is still running and all doors remain closed.ON-ROAD DRIVING TIPS
Utility vehicles have higher ground clearance and a
narrower track to make them capable of performing in a
wide variety of off-road applications. Specific design
characteristics give them a higher center of gravity than
ordinary cars.
An advantage of the higher ground clearance is a better
view of the road, allowing you to anticipate problems.
They are not designed for cornering at the same speeds as
conventional two-wheel drive vehicles any more than
low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfacto-
rily in off-road conditions. If at all possible, avoid sharp
turns or abrupt maneuvers. As with other vehicles of this
type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in
loss of control or vehicle rollover.
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OFF-ROAD DRIVING TIPS
NOTE:Prior to off-road driving, remove the front air
dam to prevent damage. The front air dam is attached to
the lower front fascia with seven quarter turn fasteners
and can be removed by hand.
Quadra-Lift™ – If Equipped
When off-roading, it is recommended that the lowest
useable vehicle height that will clear the current obstacle
or terrain be selected. The vehicle height should then be
raised as required by the changes in terrain.
The Selec-Terrain™ switch will automatically change the
vehicle to the optimized height based on the Selec-
Terrain™ switch position. The vehicle height can be
changed from the default height for each Selec-Terrain™
mode by normal use of the air suspension switches. Refer
to “Quadra-Lift™ – If Equipped” in “Starting and Oper-
ating” for further information.
When To Use 4WD LOW Range – If Equipped
When off-road driving, shift to 4WD LOW for additional
traction. This range should be limited to extreme situa-
tions such as deep snow, mud, or sand where additional
low speed pulling power is needed. Vehicle speeds in
excess of 25 mph (40 km/h) should be avoided when in
4WD LOW range.
Front Air Dam
1 — Front Bumper
2 — Front Air Dam Fasteners
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CAUTION!
Do not use 4WD LOW range when operating the
vehicle on dry pavement. Driveline hardware dam-
age can result.
Driving Through Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
water, there are a number of precautions that must be
considered before entering the water.
NOTE:Your vehicle is capable of water fording in up to
20 inches (51 cm) of water, while crossing small rivers or
streams. To maintain optimal performance of your vehi-
cle’s heating and ventilation system it is recommended to
switch the system into recirculation mode during water
fording.
CAUTION!
When driving through water, do not exceed 5 mph
(8 km/h). Always check water depth before entering,
as a precaution, and check all fluids afterward. Driv-
ing through water may cause damage that may not be
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure
safety and prevent damage to your vehicle. If you must
drive through water, try to determine the depth and the
bottom condition (and location of any obstacles) prior to
entering. Proceed with caution and maintain a steady
controlled speed less than 5 mph (8 km/h) in deep water
to minimize wave effects.
Flowing Water
If the water is swift flowing and rising (as in storm
run-off), avoid crossing until the water level recedes
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and/or the flow rate is reduced. If you must cross
flowing water avoid depths in excess of 9 inches (23 cm).
The flowing water can erode the streambed, causing your
vehicle to sink into deeper water. Determine exit point(s)
that are downstream of your entry point to allow for
drifting.
Standing Water
Avoid driving in standing water deeper than 20 inches
(51 cm), and reduce speed appropriately to minimize
wave effects. Maximum speed in 20 inches (51 cm) of
water is less than 5 mph (8 km/h).
Maintenance
After driving through deep water, inspect your vehicle
fluids and lubricants (engine oil, transmission oil, axle,
transfer case) to assure the fluids have not been contami-
nated. Contaminated fluid (milky, foamy in appearance)
should be flushed/changed as soon as possible to pre-
vent component damage.Driving In Snow, Mud And Sand
In heavy snow, when pulling a load, or for additional
control at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low
gear and shift the transfer case to 4WD LOW if necessary.
Refer to “Four-Wheel Drive Operation” in “Starting and
Operating” for further information. Do not shift to a
lower gear than necessary to maintain forward motion.
Over-revving the engine can spin the wheels and traction
will be lost.
Avoid abrupt downshifts on icy or slippery roads, because
engine braking may cause skidding and loss of control.
Hill Climbing
NOTE:Before attempting to climb a hill, determine the
conditions at the crest and/or on the other side.
Before climbing a steep hill, shift the transmission to a
lower gear and shift the transfer case to 4WD LOW. Use
first gear and 4WD LOW for very steep hills.
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If you stall or begin to lose forward motionwhile
climbing a steep hill, allow your vehicle to come to a stop
and immediately apply the brakes. Restart the engine,
and shift into REVERSE. Back slowly down the hill,
allowing the compression braking of the engine to help
regulate your speed. If the brakes are required to control
vehicle speed, apply them lightly and avoid locking or
skidding the tires.
WARNING!
If the engine stalls, you lose forward motion, or
cannot make it to the top of a steep hill or grade,
never attempt to turn around. To do so may result in
tipping and rolling the vehicle. Always back care-
fully straight down a hill in REVERSE gear. Never
back down a hill in NEUTRAL using only the brake. Remember, never drive diagonally across a hill always
drive straight up or down.
If the wheels start to slip as you approach the crest of a
hill, ease off the accelerator and maintain forward motion
by turning the front wheels slowly. This may provide a
fresh “bite” into the surface and will usually provide
traction to complete the climb.
Traction Downhill
Shift the transmission into a low gear, and the transfer
case into 4WD LOW range. Let the vehicle go slowly
down the hill with all four wheels turning against engine
compression drag. This will permit you to control the
vehicle speed and direction.
When descending mountains or hills, repeated braking
can cause brake fade with loss of braking control. Avoid
repeated heavy braking by downshifting the transmis-
sion whenever possible.5
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After Driving Off-Road
Off-road operation puts more stress on your vehicle than
does most on-road driving. After going off-road, it is
always a good idea to check for damage. That way you
can get any problems taken care of right away and have
your vehicle ready when you need it.
•Completely inspect the underbody of your vehicle.
Check tires, body structure, steering, suspension, and
exhaust system for damage.
•Inspect the radiator for mud and debris and clean as
required.
•Check threaded fasteners for looseness, particularly on
the chassis, drivetrain components, steering, and sus-
pension. Retighten them, if required, and torque to the
values specified in the Service Manual.
•Check for accumulations of plants or brush. These
things could be a fire hazard. They might hide damage
to fuel lines, brake hoses, axle pinion seals, and
propeller shafts.
•After extended operation in mud, sand, water, or
similar dirty conditions, have the radiator, fan, brake
rotors, wheels, brake linings, and axle yokes inspected
and cleaned as soon as possible.
WARNING!
Abrasive material in any part of the brakes may cause
excessive wear or unpredictable braking. You might
not have full braking power when you need it to
prevent a collision. If you have been operating your
vehicle in dirty conditions, get your brakes checked
and cleaned as necessary.
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