Ram ProMaster City 2020 Owner's Manual

168 STARTING AND OPERATING
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for prolonged
periods with the engine running. Apply the parking brake
and shift the transmission into PARK if you must exit the
vehicle.DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and highway
driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts and downshifts,
and the best fuel economy. The transmission automatically
upshifts through all forward gears. The DRIVE position
provides optimum driving characteristics under all normal
operating conditions.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such as when
operating the vehicle under heavy loading conditions, in
hilly terrain, traveling into strong head winds, or while
towing a heavy trailer), use the Electronic Range Select (ERS)
shift control refer to “Electronic Range Select (ERS) Opera
-
tion” in this section for further information to select a lower
gear range. Under these conditions, using a lower gear range
will improve performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
If the transmission temperature exceeds normal operating
limits, the transmission controller may modify the transmis -
sion shift schedule, reduce engine torque, and/or expand the
range of torque converter clutch engagement. This is done to
prevent transmission damage due to overheating.
WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the
ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe practices
that limit your response to changing traffic or road
conditions. You might lose control of the vehicle and
have a collision.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any other
reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL can cause
severe transmission damage.
Refer to “Recreational Towing” in “Starting And
Operating” and “Towing A Disabled Vehicle” in “In
Case Of Emergency” for further information.
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STARTING AND OPERATING 169
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the “Transmis-
sion Temperature Warning Light” may illuminate and the
transmission may operate differently until the transmission
cools down.
During cold temperatures, transmission operation may be
modified depending on engine and transmission tempera -
ture as well as vehicle speed. This feature improves warm up
time of the engine and transmission to achieve maximum
efficiency. Engagement of the torque converter clutch, and
shifts into 8th or 9th gear, are inhibited until the transmission
fluid is warm refer to the “Note” under “Torque Converter
Clutch” in this section. Normal operation will resume once
the transmission temperature has risen to a suitable level.
Transmission Limp Home Mode
Transmission function is monitored electronically for
abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected that could
result in transmission damage, Transmission Limp Home
Mode is activated. In this mode, the transmission may
operate only in a fixed gear, or may remain in NEUTRAL.
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be illuminated.
Limp Home Mode may allow the vehicle to be driven to an
authorized dealer for service without damaging the trans -
mission. In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission can
be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the
following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the ignition OFF.
4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no
longer detected, the transmission will return to normal
operation.
NOTE:
Even if the transmission can be reset, we recommend that
you visit your authorized dealer at your earliest possible
convenience. Your authorized dealer has diagnostic equip -
ment to assess the condition of your transmission. If the
transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer service is
required.
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170 STARTING AND OPERATING
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle. A
clutch within the torque converter engages automatically at
calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly different
feeling or response during normal operation in the upper
gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during some acceler-
ations, the clutch automatically disengages.
NOTE:
The torque converter clutch will not engage until the trans -
mission fluid is warm [usually after 1 to 3 miles (2 to 5 km)
of driving]. Because the engine speed is higher when the
torque converter clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the
transmission is not shifting properly when cold. This is
normal. The torque converter clutch will function normally
once the transmission is sufficiently warm.
Electronic Range Select (ERS) Operation
The Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control allows the
driver to limit the highest available gear. For example, if you
set the transmission gear limit to 5 (fifth gear), the transmis -
sion will not shift above fifth 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 posi
-
tion, 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 top available gear.
Once in ERS mode, moving the gear selector forward (-) or
rearward (+) will change the top available gear, which will
be displayed in the instrument cluster.
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 posi -
tion, then simply press and hold it forward (-). The transmis -
sion will shift to the range from which the vehicle can best be
slowed down.
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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STARTING AND OPERATING 171
POWER STEERING
The standard power steering system will give you good
vehicle response and increased ease of maneuverability in
tight spaces. The system will provide mechanical steering
capability if power assist is lost.

If for some reason the power assist is interrupted, it will still be
possible to steer your vehicle. Under these conditions, you will
observe a substantial increase in steering effort, especially at
very low vehicle speeds and during parking maneuvers.

NOTE:
• Increased noise levels at the end of the steering wheeltravel are considered normal and do not indicate that there
is a problem with the power steering system.
• Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the power steering pump may make noise for a short amount of time. This is
due to the cold, thick fluid in the steering system. This
noise should be considered normal, and it does not in any
way damage the steering system.
Power Steering Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined service
interval is not required. The fluid should only be checked if
a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are apparent, and/or
the system is not functioning as anticipated. Coordinate
inspection efforts through your authorized dealer. CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system at the end of
the steering wheel travel will increase the steering fluid
temperature and it should be avoided when possible.
Damage to the power steering pump may occur.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and with
the engine off to prevent injury from moving parts and
to ensure accurate fluid level reading. Do not overfill.
Use only manufacturer's recommended power steering
fluid.
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172 STARTING AND OPERATING
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all
surfaces. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information.
SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED
When engaged, the Speed Control takes over accelerator
operations at speeds greater than 25 mph (40 km/h).
The Speed Control buttons are located on the right side of the
steering wheel.Speed Control Buttons
To Activate
Push the on/off button to activate the Speed Control. The
cruise indicator light in the instrument cluster display will
illuminate. To turn the system off, push the on/off button a
second time. The cruise indicator light will turn off. The
system should be turned off when not in use.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your power steering
system as the chemicals can damage your power steering
components. Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
1 — On/Off
2 — RES (+)/Resume/Accel
3 — SET (–)/Set Speed/Decel
4 — CAN/Cancel
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STARTING AND OPERATING 173
To Set A Desired Speed
Turn the Speed Control on. When the vehicle has reached the
desired speed greater than 25 mph (40 km/h), push the SET(-) button and release. Release the accelerator and the vehicle
will operate at the selected speed.
NOTE:
The vehicle should be traveling at a steady speed and on
level ground before pushing the SET (-) button.
To Vary The Speed Setting
To Increase Speed
When the Speed Control is set, you can increase speed by
pushing the RES (+) button.
The speed increment is dependent on the chosen speed unit
of U.S. (mph) or Metric (km/h):
U.S. Speed (mph)
• Pushing the RES (+) button once will result in a 1 mph increase in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button
results in an increase of 1 mph.
• If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will continue to increase until the button is released, then the
new set speed will be established.
Metric Speed (km/h)
• Pushing the RES (+) button once will result in a 1 km/h increase in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button
results in an increase of 1 km/h.
• If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will continue to increase until the button is released, then the
new set speed will be established.
WARNING!
Leaving the Speed Control system on when not in use is
dangerous. You could accidentally set the system or
cause it to go faster than you want. You could lose
control and have an accident. Always leave the system
off when you are not using it.
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174 STARTING AND OPERATING
To Decrease Speed
When the Speed Control is set, you can decrease speed by
pushing the SET (-) button.
The speed decrement is dependent on the chosen speed unit
of U.S. (mph) or Metric (km/h):
U.S. Speed (mph)
• Pushing the SET (-) button once will result in a 1 mphdecrease in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button
results in a decrease of 1 mph.
• If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will continue to decrease until the button is released, then the
new set speed will be established.
Metric Speed (km/h)
• Pushing the SET (-) button once will result in a 1 km/h decrease in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button
results in a decrease of 1 km/h.
• If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will continue to decrease until the button is released, then the
new set speed will be established.To Accelerate For Passing
Press the accelerator as you would normally. When the pedal
is released, the vehicle will return to the set speed.
Using Speed Control On Hills
The transmission may downshift on hills to maintain the
vehicle set speed.
NOTE:
The Speed Control system maintains speed up and down
hills. A slight speed change on moderate hills is normal.
On steep hills, a greater speed loss or gain may occur so it
may be preferable to drive without Speed Control.
WARNING!
Speed Control can be dangerous where the system
cannot maintain a constant speed. Your vehicle could go
too fast for the conditions, and you could lose control
and have an accident. Do not use Speed Control in heavy
traffic or on roads that are winding, icy, snow-covered or
slippery.
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STARTING AND OPERATING 175
To Resume Speed

To resume a previously set speed, push the RES (+) button and
release. Resume can be used at any speed above 20 mph
(32 km/h) up to the maximum speed of 100 mph (160 km/h).

To Deactivate
A soft tap on the brake pedal, pushing the CAN button, or
normal brake pressure while slowing the vehicle will deacti-
vate the Speed Control without erasing the set speed from
memory.
Pushing the on/off button or turning the ignition switch off
erases the set speed from memory.
PARKSENSE REAR PARK ASSIST — IF EQUIPPED
The ParkSense system provides an audible indication of the
distance between the rear fascia/bumper and a detected
obstacle when backing up (e.g. during a parking maneuver).
Refer to “ParkSense Rear Park Assist System Usage Precau-
tions” in this section for limitations of this system and recom -
mendations.
The ParkSense system is automatically activated when the
transmission is placed into REVERSE. As the distance from
an obstacle behind the vehicle decreases, the audible alert
becomes more frequent.
Interaction With Trailer Towing
The ParkSense system is automatically deactivated when a
trailer equipped by Mopar is hitched to the vehicle. The
system will be automatically activated as soon as the trailer
is removed. If it does not happen, turning the key ignition
switch to OFF and then to ON again would be needed. If a
non-Mopar trailer hitch is mounted, the sensor deactivation
cannot be guaranteed.
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176 STARTING AND OPERATING
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Sensors

The four ParkSense sensors, located in the rear fascia/bumper,
monitor the area behind the vehicle that is within the sensors’
field of view. The sensors can detect obstacles, in the horizontal
direction, from approximately 12 inches (30 cm) up to 55 inches
(140 cm) from the center of the rear fascia/bumper and up to
24 inches (60 cm) from the corners of the rear fascia/bumper,
depending on the location, type and orientation of the obstacle.

ParkSense Rear Park Assist Sensors Locations If several obstacles are detected, the ParkSense system indi
-
cates the nearest obstacle.
The minimum height of a detectable obstacle corresponds to
the maximum height of an obstacle that would clear the
underside of the vehicle during the parking maneuver.
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Alerts
If an obstacle is behind the vehicle when REVERSE gear is
engaged, an audible alert is activated.
The tones emitted by the loudspeaker inform the driver that
the vehicle is approaching an obstacle. The pauses between
the tones are directly proportional to the distance from the
obstacle. Pulses emitted in quick succession indicate the
presence of a very close obstacle. A continuous tone indicates
that the obstacle is less than 12 inches (30 cm) away.
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STARTING AND OPERATING 177
While audible signals are emitted, the audio system is
muted.
The audible signal is turned off immediately if the distance
increases. The tone cycle remains constant if the distance
measured by the inner sensors is constant. If this condition occurs
for the external sensors, the signal is turned off after three seconds
(stopping warnings during maneuvers parallel to walls).

ParkSense Rear Park Assist Failure Indications
A malfunction of the ParkSense sensors or system is indi
-
cated, during REVERSE gear engagement, by the instrument
panel warning icon.
The warning icon is illuminated and a message is
displayed on the instrument cluster display (if
equipped). Refer to “Warning Lights And
Messages” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.

The sensors and wiring are tested continuously when the
ignition is in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position. Failures are
indicated immediately if they occur when the system is on.

Even if the system is able to identify that a specific sensor is
in failure condition, the instrument cluster display shall
indicate that the ParkSense system is unavailable, without
reference to the sensor in failure condition. If even a single
sensor fails, the entire system must be disabled. The system
is turned off automatically.
Audible And Visual Signals Supplied By The Park
Assist System
SIGNAL MEANING INDICATION
Obstacle
Distance An obstacle
is present
within the sensors' field of view Audible signal
(dashboard
loudspeaker)
• Sound pulses emitted at a rate
that increases as the distance
decreases
• Emits continuous tone at
12 inches (30 cm)
• Adjustable volume level
programmable through personal
settings in the instrument cluster
display. Refer to “Instrument
Cluster Display” in “Getting To
Know Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.
Failure Sensor or
system
failures Visual Signal
(instrument panel)
• Icon appears on display
• Message is displayed on
instrument cluster display (if
equipped)
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