four wheel drive Ram 1500 2020 Owner's Manual

6
STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING THE ENGINE .............................................. 290
Automatic Transmission ............................................ 291
Tip Start Feature ......................................................... 291
Keyless Enter-N-Go — Ignition................................. 291
Normal Starting Using ENGINE START/STOP
Button ............................................................................ 292
Cold Weather Operation (Below –22°F Or
−30°C) ........................................................................... 296
After Starting................................................................ 296
 ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED .............. 296
 ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS ............ 297
 PARKING BRAKE ............................................................ 297
Electric Park Brake (EPB) ........................................... 297
 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ................................... 302
Ignition Park Interlock ................................................ 303
Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System ........... 304
Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission ..................... 304
 FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION — IF
 EQUIPPED ........................................................................ 310
Four-Position Electronically Shifted Transfer Case
(Eight Speed Transmission Only) — If
Equipped ...................................................................... 311
Five-Position Electronically Shifted Transfer Case
(Eight Speed Transmission Only) — If
Equipped ...................................................................... 314 
ACTIVE-LEVEL FOUR CORNER AIR SUSPENSION
SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED ...............................................319
Description.................................................................... 319
Air Suspension Modes ................................................322
Instrument Cluster Display Messages ......................323
Operation ......................................................................323
 ACTIVE-LEVEL FOUR CORNER AIR SUSPENSION
SYSTEM (REBEL MODELS ONLY) — IF
EQUIPPED .........................................................................325
Description.................................................................... 325
Air Suspension Modes ................................................328
Instrument Cluster Display Messages ......................329
Operation ......................................................................329
 AXLE LOCKER SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED ..................331
 LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED ...... 332
 POWER STEERING ..........................................................333
Electric Power Steering ..............................................333
 FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY 5.7L ENGINES ONLY —
IF EQUIPPED .....................................................................333
 STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED .....................334
Automatic Mode ..........................................................334
Possible Reasons The Engine Does Not
Autostop........................................................................334
To Start The Engine While In Autostop Mode ........335
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 6

8
LANESENSE — IF EQUIPPED ...................................... 391
LaneSense Operation .................................................. 391
Turning LaneSense On Or Off ................................... 391
LaneSense Warning Message .................................... 392
Changing LaneSense Status ....................................... 395
 PARKVIEW REAR BACK UP CAMERA ...................... 396
 SURROUND VIEW CAMERA SYSTEM — IF
EQUIPPED ......................................................................... 398
 REFUELING THE VEHICLE .......................................... 403
 VEHICLE LOADING ....................................................... 405
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) .................... 405
Payload.......................................................................... 405
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) ......................... 406
Tire Size......................................................................... 406
Rim Size ........................................................................ 406
Inflation Pressure......................................................... 406
Curb Weight ................................................................. 406
Loading ......................................................................... 406
 TRAILER TOWING .......................................................... 407
Common Towing Definitions .................................... 407
Trailer Hitch Type and Maximum Trailer
Weight ........................................................................... 411
Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight
Ratings) ......................................................................... 413
Trailer And Tongue Weight .......................................413
Towing Requirements ................................................413
Towing Tips .................................................................420
 SNOWPLOW .................................................................... 421
 RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME,
ETC.) ...................................................................................422
Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle ........422
Recreational Towing — Two-Wheel Drive
Models ...........................................................................423
Recreational Towing — Four-Wheel Drive
Models ...........................................................................423
 DRIVING TIPS ...................................................................427
Driving On Slippery Surfaces ...................................427
Driving Through Water .............................................427
Off-Road Driving Tips ................................................429
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS................................. 431
 ASSIST AND SOS SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED ..............431
 BULB REPLACEMENT ....................................................436
Replacement Bulbs ......................................................436
Replacing Exterior Bulbs ............................................438
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 8

9
FUSES.................................................................................. 444
External Power Distribution Center ........................ 445
Internal Power Distribution Center ......................... 449
 JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING .............................. 454
Jack Location ................................................................ 454
Removal Of Jack And Tools ....................................... 455
Removing The Spare Tire ........................................... 458
Preparations For Jacking ............................................ 462
Jacking Instructions ..................................................... 463
To Stow The Flat Or Spare ........................................ 468
Reinstalling The Jack And Tools ............................... 470
 JUMP STARTING ............................................................ 472
Preparations For Jump Start ...................................... 472
Jump Starting Procedure ............................................ 473
 IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS .................................. 475
 MANUAL PARK RELEASE ............................................ 476
 FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE ...................................... 477
 TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE ................................ 478
Two-Wheel Drive Models .......................................... 480
Four-Wheel Drive Models.......................................... 480
Emergency Tow Hooks — If Equipped ................... 481
 ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE SYSTEM
(EARS) ................................................................................ 481
 EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ................................ 481
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING .............................................482
Maintenance Plan ........................................................483
Heavy Duty Use Of The Vehicle ...............................486
 ENGINE COMPARTMENT ............................................487
3.6L Engine With Stop/Start .....................................487
5.7L Engine Without Stop/Start ................................488
5.7L Engine With Stop/Start ......................................489
Checking Oil Level ......................................................490
Adding Washer Fluid..................................................490
Maintenance-Free Battery .......................................... 491
Pressure Washing ........................................................491
 DEALER SERVICE ........................................................... 492
Engine Oil — Gas Engine .......................................... 492
Engine Oil Filter ........................................................... 494
Engine Air Cleaner Filter ............................................494
Air Conditioner Maintenance ....................................496
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection ................................501
Body Lubrication .........................................................502
Windshield Wiper Blades ...........................................503
Exhaust System ........................................................... 505
Cooling System ........................................................... 506
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 9

13
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Dear Customer, congratulations on selecting your new
vehicle. Be assured that it represents precision workman-
ship, distinctive styling, and high quality.
This is a specialized utility vehicle. It can go places and
perform tasks that are not intended for conventional
passenger vehicles. It handles and maneuvers differently
from many passenger vehicles both on-road and off-road, so
take time to become familiar with your vehicle. If equipped,
the two-wheel drive version of this vehicle was designed for
on-road use only. It is not intended for off-road driving or
use in other severe conditions suited for a four-wheel drive
vehicle. Before you start to drive this vehicle, read the
Owner’s Manual. Be sure you are familiar with all vehicle
controls, particularly those used for braking, steering, trans -
mission, and transfer case shifting. Learn how your vehicle
handles on different road surfaces. Your driving skills will
improve with experience. When driving off-road, or
working the vehicle, don’t overload the vehicle or expect the
vehicle to overcome the natural laws of physics. Always
observe federal, state, provincial and local laws wherever
you drive. As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or
a collision. Refer to “Driving Tips” in “Starting and Oper
-
ating” for further information.
This Owner’s Manual has been prepared with the assistance
of service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your vehicle. It is supple -
mented by Warranty Information, and customer oriented
documents located online. Within this information, you will
find a description of the services that FCA US LLC offers to
its customers, the Warranty Certificate and the details of the
terms and conditions for maintaining its validity. Please take
the time to read all of these publications carefully before
driving your vehicle for the first time. Following the instruc -
tions, recommendations, tips, and important warnings in
this manual will help assure safe and enjoyable operation of
your vehicle.
This Owner’s Manual describes all versions of this vehicle.
Options and equipment dedicated to specific markets or
versions are not expressly indicated in the text. Therefore,
you should only consider the information which is related to
the trim level, engine, and version that you have purchased.
Any content introduced throughout the Owner’s Informa -
1
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 13

190 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
— Rear Axle Lock Indicator Light
This light indicates when the rear axle lock has been acti -
vated.
— 4WD Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the
four-wheel drive mode, and the front and rear driveshafts
are mechanically locked together forcing the front and rear
wheels to rotate at the same speed.
— 4WD Low Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the
four-wheel drive LOW mode. The front and rear driveshafts
are mechanically locked together forcing the front and rear
wheels to rotate at the same speed. Low range provides a
greater gear reduction ratio to provide increased torque at
the wheels.
Refer to “Four-Wheel Drive Operation — If Equipped” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information on
four-wheel drive operation and proper use. — 4WD High Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the
four-wheel drive HIGH mode. The front and rear driveshafts
are mechanically locked together forcing the front and rear
wheels to rotate at the same speed.
— NEUTRAL Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the 4WD power transfer case
is in the NEUTRAL mode and the front and rear driveshafts
are disengaged from the powertrain.
— Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Cleaning In Progress
Indicator Light — Diesel Versions With DPF Only
The symbol switches on constantly to indicate that the DPF
system needs to eliminate the trapped pollutants (particu-
late) through the regeneration process. The symbol does not
switch on during every DPF regeneration, but only when
driving conditions require that the driver is notified. To turn
off the symbol, keep the vehicle in motion until the regener -
ation process is over. On average, the process lasts
15 minutes.
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 190

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 193
— Turn Signal Indicator Lights
When the left or right turn signal is activated, the turn signal
indicator will flash independently and the corresponding
exterior turn signal lamps will flash. Turn signals can be acti -
vated when the multifunction lever is moved down (left) or
up (right).
NOTE:
• A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is driven more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either turn signal on.
• Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if either indi -
cator flashes at a rapid rate.
• If equipped with fog lamps, the fog lamp on the side of the activated turn signal will also illuminate to provide addi -
tional light when turning.
— Cruise Control SET Indicator Light — If Equipped
With 7 Inch Instrument Cluster Display
This light will turn on when the speed control is set.
Refer to “Speed Control” in “Starting And Operating” for
further information. — Stop/Start Active Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the Stop/Start func -
tion is in “Autostop” mode.
— 4WD AUTO Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the
four-wheel drive auto mode, and the front axle is engaged,
but the vehicle's power is sent to the rear wheels. Four-wheel
drive will be automatically engaged when the vehicle senses
a loss of traction.
For further information on four-wheel drive operation and
proper use, refer to “Four-Wheel Drive Operation — If
Equipped” in “Starting And Operating.”
White Indicator Lights
— Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Ready Light — If
Equipped
This light will illuminate when the vehicle equipped with
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) has been turned on but not
set.
Refer to “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) — If Equipped” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information.
3
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 193

200 SAFETY
Brake Assist System (BAS)
The Brake Assist System (BAS) is designed to optimize the
vehicle’s braking capability during emergency braking
maneuvers. The system detects an emergency braking situa-
tion by sensing the rate and amount of brake application, and
then applies optimum pressure to the brakes. This can help
reduce braking distances. The BAS complements the
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). Applying the brakes very
quickly results in the best BAS assistance. To receive the
benefit of the system, you must apply continuous braking
pressure during the stopping sequence, (do not “pump” the
brakes). Do not reduce brake pedal pressure unless braking
is no longer desired. Once the brake pedal is released, the
BAS is deactivated. Brake System Warning Light
The red “Brake System Warning Light” will turn on when
the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode and may stay on
for as long as four seconds.
If the “Brake System Warning Light” remains on or comes on
while driving, it indicates that the brake system is not func
-
tioning properly and that immediate service is required. If
the “Brake System Warning Light” does not come on when
the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode, have the light
repaired as soon as possible.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
This function manages the distribution of the braking torque
between the front and rear axles by limiting braking pressure
to the rear axle. This is done to prevent overslip of the rear
wheels to avoid vehicle instability, and to prevent the rear
axle from entering ABS before the front axle.
Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)
The Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) system anticipates the
potential for wheel lift by monitoring the driver’s steering
wheel input and the speed of the vehicle. When ERM deter -
mines that the rate of change of the steering wheel angle and
vehicle’s speed are sufficient to potentially cause wheel lift,
WARNING!
The Brake Assist System (BAS) cannot prevent the
natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing road
conditions. BAS cannot prevent collisions, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving on
very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. The capabilities
of a BAS-equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a
reckless or dangerous manner, which could jeopardize
the user's safety or the safety of others.
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 200

210 SAFETY

6. Push the “ESC Off” button located in the lower switch bankbelow the climate control four times within 20 seconds. The
“ESC Off Indicator Light” should turn on and turn off two
times.

7. Rotate the steering wheel back to center and then an addi -
tional slightly more than one-half turn to the right.
8. Turn the ignition to the OFF mode and then back to ON. If the sequence was completed properly, the “ESC Off
Indicator Light” will blink several times to confirm HSA
is disabled.
9. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting.
Traction Control System (TCS)
The Traction Control System (TCS) monitors the amount of
wheel spin of each of the driven wheels. If wheel spin is
detected, the TCS may apply brake pressure to the spinning
wheel(s) and/or reduce engine power to provide enhanced
acceleration and stability. A feature of the TCS, Brake
Limited Differential (BLD), functions similar to a limited slip
differential and controls the wheel spin across a driven axle.
If one wheel on a driven axle is spinning faster than the other,
the system will apply the brake of the spinning wheel. This will allow more engine torque to be applied to the wheel that
is not spinning. BLD may remain enabled even if TCS and
ESC are in a reduced mode.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
Trailer Sway Control (TSC) uses sensors in the vehicle to
recognize an excessively swaying trailer and will take the
appropriate actions to attempt to stop the sway. TSC will
become active automatically once an excessively swaying
trailer is recognized.
NOTE:
TSC cannot stop all trailers from swaying. Always use
caution when towing a trailer and follow the trailer tongue
weight recommendations. Refer to “Trailer Towing” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information.
When TSC is functioning, the “ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light” will flash, the engine power may be reduced
and you may feel the brakes being applied to individual
wheels to attempt to stop the trailer from swaying. TSC is
disabled when the ESC system is in the “Partial Off” or “Full
Off” modes.
WARNING!
If TSC activates while driving, slow the vehicle down,
stop at the nearest safe location, and adjust the trailer
load to eliminate trailer sway.
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 210

SAFETY 229
• The TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance,and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire
pressure using an accurate tire pressure gauge, even if
under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumi -
nation of the TPMS Warning Light.
• Seasonal temperature changes will affect tire pressure, and the TPMS will monitor the actual tire pressure in the tire.
Tire Pressure Monitor Display The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses wireless
technology with wheel rim mounted electronic sensors to
monitor tire pressure levels. Sensors, mounted to each wheel
as part of the valve stem, transmit tire pressure readings to
the receiver module.
NOTE:
It is particularly important for you to check the tire pressure
in all of the tires on your vehicle monthly and to maintain the
proper pressure.
The TPMS consists of the following components:
• Receiver module
• Four tire pressure monitoring sensors
• Various tire pressure monitoring system messages, which
display in the instrument cluster
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light
4
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 229

246 SAFETY
The air bag system must be ready to protect you in a colli-
sion. The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) monitors the
internal circuits and interconnecting wiring associated with
the electrical Air Bag System Components. Your vehicle may
be equipped with the following Air Bag System Compo -
nents:
Air Bag System Components
• Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
• Air Bag Warning Light
• Steering Wheel and Column
• Instrument Panel
• Knee Impact Bolsters
• Driver and Front Passenger Air Bags
• Seat Belt Buckle Switch
• Supplemental Side Air Bags
• Front and Side Impact Sensors
• Seat Belt Pretensioners
• Seat Track Position Sensors
• Occupant Classification System Air Bag Warning Light
The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic
parts of the air bag system whenever the ignition
switch is in the START or ON/RUN position. If the
ignition switch is in the OFF position or in the ACC position,
the air bag system is not on and the air bags will not inflate.
The ORC contains a backup power supply system that may
deploy the air bag system even if the battery loses power or
it becomes disconnected prior to deployment.
The ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in the instru-
ment panel for approximately four to eight seconds for a
self-check when the ignition switch is first in the ON/RUN
position. After the self-check, the Air Bag Warning Light will
turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the
system, it turns on the Air Bag Warning Light, either
momentarily or continuously. A single chime will sound to
alert you if the light comes on again after initial startup.
The ORC also includes diagnostics that will illuminate the
instrument panel Air Bag Warning Light if a malfunction is
detected that could affect the air bag system. The diagnostics
also record the nature of the malfunction. While the air bag
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 246