engine RAM PROMASTER CITY 2022 Owner's Guide
Page 61 of 260
STARTING AND OPERATING59
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the 
Transmission 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 temperature 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 EIGHTH or NINTH gear, are 
inhibited until the transmission fluid is warm 
 
Ú
 page 59. 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 transmission. 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 an authorized dealer at your earliest 
possible convenience. An authorized dealer has diag -
nostic equipment to assess the condition of your 
transmission. If the transmission cannot be reset, 
authorized dealer service is required.
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 
accelerations, the clutch automatically 
disengages.
NOTE:The torque converter clutch will not engage until 
the transmission 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 ERS shift control allows the driver to limit the 
highest available gear. For example, if you set the 
transmission gear limit to FIFTH gear, the 
transmission 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 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 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.4
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60STARTING AND OPERATING  
NOTE:To select the proper gear position for maximum 
deceleration (engine braking), move the gear 
selector into the ERS position, then simply press 
and hold it forward “-”. The transmission will shift 
to the range from which the vehicle can best be 
slowed down.
POWER STEERING 
The standard power steering system provides 
increased vehicle response and ease of 
maneuverability. 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 
wheel travel 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 an authorized dealer. If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper 
indicated level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled 
fluid from all surfaces  Ú
page 241.CRUISE CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED
When engaged, the Cruise Control takes over 
accelerator operations at speeds greater than 
25 mph (40 km/h).
The Cruise Control buttons are located on the right 
side of the steering wheel.
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.
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 the 
manufacturer recommended power steering 
fluid.
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.
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66STARTING AND OPERATING  
NOTE:If snow, ice, mud, or any foreign substance builds 
up on the camera lens, clean the lens, rinse with 
water, and dry with a soft cloth. Do not cover the 
lens.
REFUELING THE VEHICLE 
The gas cap is located on the left side of the 
vehicle. If the gas cap is lost or damaged, be sure 
to use the correct replacement cap for this vehicle
1. Open the fuel filler door.
2. Remove the fuel cap by rotating it counter -
clockwise.
 Fuel Filler Cap
NOTE:The driver's side sliding door cannot be opened 
while the fuel door is open. This feature operates 
only when the sliding door is in a closed position 
prior to opening the fuel door.
3. Fully insert the gasoline nozzle into the filler 
pipe.
4. Fill the vehicle with fuel.
NOTE:
When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, 
the fuel tank is full.
Wait five seconds before removing the fuel 
nozzle to allow excess fuel to drain from the 
nozzle.
5. Remove gasoline nozzle, reinstall fuel cap and  close fuel filler door.
CAUTION!
To avoid vehicle damage, ParkView should 
only be used as a parking aid. The ParkView 
camera is unable to view every obstacle or 
object in your drive path.
To avoid vehicle damage, the vehicle must be 
driven slowly when using ParkView to be able 
to stop in time when an obstacle is seen. It is 
recommended that the driver look frequently 
over his/her shoulder when using ParkView.
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or 
near the vehicle when the gas cap is removed 
or the tank is being filled.
Never add fuel when the engine is running. 
This is in violation of most state and federal 
fire regulations and may cause the Malfunc -
tion Indicator Light (MIL) to turn on.
A fire may result if gasoline is pumped into a 
portable container that is inside of a vehicle. 
You could be burned. Always place gas 
containers on the ground while filling.
CAUTION!
Damage to the fuel system or emissions 
control system could result from using an 
improper fuel tank filler tube cap. A poorly 
fitting cap could let impurities into the fuel 
system and may cause the Malfunction Indi -
cator Light (MIL) to turn on, due to fuel vapors 
escaping from the system.
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not 
“top off” the fuel tank after filling.
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STARTING AND OPERATING69
Tongue Weight (TW)
The TW is the downward force exerted on the hitch 
ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of 
the load on your vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied 
by the maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
The TSC can be a mechanical telescoping link that 
can be installed between the hitch receiver and the 
trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable 
friction associated with the telescoping motion to 
dampen any unwanted trailer swaying motions 
while traveling.
If equipped, the electronic TSC recognizes a 
swaying trailer and automatically applies individual 
wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power to 
attempt to eliminate the trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue 
weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch 
ball or some other connecting point of the vehicle. 
These kinds of hitches are commonly used to tow 
small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
The weight-distributing hitch works by applying 
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are 
typically used for heavier loads to distribute trailer 
tongue weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and 
the trailer axle(s). When used in accordance with 
the manufacturer's directions, it provides for a 
more level ride, offering more consistent steering 
and brake control thereby enhancing towing 
safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic sway 
control also dampens sway caused by traffic and 
crosswinds and contributes positively to tow  vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer Sway Control 
(TSC) and a weight distributing (load equalizing) 
hitch are recommended for heavier Tongue 
Weights (TW) and may be required depending on 
vehicle and trailer configuration/loading to comply 
with Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) 
requirements.WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight Distributing 
Hitch system may reduce handling, stability, 
braking performance, and could result in a 
collision.
Weight Distributing Systems may not be 
compatible with Surge Brake Couplers. 
Consult with your hitch and trailer manufac-
turer or a reputable Recreational Vehicle 
dealer for additional information.
4
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STARTING AND OPERATING71
TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM 
T
RAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)   
NOTE:For trailer towing information (maximum trailer 
weight ratings) refer to the following website 
addresses: 
ramtrucks.com/en/towing_guide/
ramtruck.ca (Canada)
rambodybuilder.com
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT 
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight 
stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch.
Weight Distribution
 Consider the following items when computing the 
weight on the rear axle of the vehicle:The tongue weight of the trailer.
The weight of any other type of cargo or equip
-
ment put in or on your vehicle.
The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:Remember that everything put into or on the trailer 
adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional 
factory-installed options or dealer-installed options 
must be considered as part of the total load on 
your vehicle. Refer to the Tire And Loading Infor -
mation placard for the maximum combined weight 
of occupants and cargo for your vehicle  
Ú page 221.
TOWING REQUIREMENTS 
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle 
drivetrain components, the following guidelines 
are recommended.
Perform the maintenance listed in Scheduled 
Servicing for the proper maintenance intervals  
Úpage 189. When towing a trailer, never exceed 
the GAWR or GCWR ratings.
CAUTION!
Always load a trailer with 60% of the weight in 
the front of the trailer. This places 10% of the 
GTW on the tow hitch of your vehicle. Loads 
balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear 
can cause the trailer to sway severely side to 
side which will cause loss of control of the 
vehicle and trailer. Failure to load trailers heavier 
in front is the cause of many trailer collisions.
CAUTION!
Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 
500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is driven. 
The engine, axle or other parts could be 
damaged.
Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that 
a trailer is towed, do not drive over 50 mph 
(80 km/h) and do not make starts at full 
throttle. This helps the engine and other parts 
of the vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.
4
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72STARTING AND OPERATING  
(Continued)
Towing Requirements — Tires
Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a 
compact spare tire.
Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when 
towing while using a full size spare tire.
Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to 
the safe and satisfactory operation of your 
vehicle.
Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation 
pressures before trailer usage.
Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire 
damage before towing a trailer.
When replacing tires with a higher load carrying 
capacity they will not increase the vehicle's 
GVWR and GAWR limits.
For further information  Ú page 217.
WARNING!
Make certain that the load is secured in the 
trailer and will not shift during travel. When 
trailering cargo that is not fully secured, 
dynamic load shifts can occur that may be 
difficult for the driver to control. You could lose 
control of your vehicle and have a collision.
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not 
overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading 
can cause a loss of control, poor performance 
or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transmis -
sion, steering, suspension, chassis structure 
or tires.
Safety chains must always be used between 
your vehicle and trailer. Always connect the 
chains to the hook retainers of the vehicle 
hitch. Cross the chains under the trailer 
tongue and allow enough slack for turning 
corners.
Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on 
a grade. When parking, apply the parking 
brake on the tow vehicle. Put the tow vehicle 
transmission in PARK. For four-wheel drive 
vehicles, make sure the transfer case is not in 
NEUTRAL. Always, block or "chock" the trailer 
wheels.
GCWR must not be exceeded.
Total weight must be distributed between the 
tow vehicle and the trailer such that the 
following four ratings are not exceeded :
GVWR
GTW
GAWR
Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch 
utilized.
WARNING!
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74STARTING AND OPERATING  
Seven-Pin Connector
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, use 
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control to 
select a lower gear range.
NOTE:Using a lower gear range while operating the 
vehicle under heavy loading conditions will 
improve performance and extend transmission life 
by reducing excessive shifting and heat build up. 
This action will also provide better engine braking.
Electronic Range Select (ERS)
When using the ERS shift control, select the 
highest gear that allows for adequate perfor -
mance and avoids frequent downshifts. For 
example, choose “5” if the desired speed can be 
maintained. Choose “4” or “3” if needed to 
maintain the desired speed.
To prevent excess heat generation, avoid 
continuous driving at high RPM. Reduce vehicle 
speed as necessary to avoid extended driving at 
high RPM. Return to a higher gear range or 
vehicle speed when grade and road conditions 
allow.
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.
1 — Backup Lamps
2 — Running Lamps
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Ground
5 — Battery
6 — Right Stop/Turn
7 — Electric Brakes
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STARTING AND OPERATING77
(Continued)
(Continued)
Flowing/Rising Water
Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through 
shallow standing water, consider the following 
Cautions and Warnings before doing so.
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where 
water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm 
run-off). Flowing water can wear away the road 
or path's surface and cause your vehicle to sink 
into deeper water. Furthermore, flowing and/or 
rising water can carry your vehicle away swiftly. 
Failure to follow this warning may result in 
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your 
passengers, and others around you.
WARNING!
Driving through standing water limits your 
vehicle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed 
5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through 
standing water.
Driving through standing water limits your 
vehicle’s braking capabilities, which increases 
stopping distances. Therefore, after driving 
through standing water, drive slowly and 
lightly press on the brake pedal several times 
to dry the brakes.
Failure to follow these warnings may result in 
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your 
passengers, and others around you.
CAUTION!
Always check the depth of the standing water 
before driving through it. Never drive through 
standing water that is deeper than the bottom 
of the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.
Determine the condition of the road or the 
path that is under water and if there are any 
obstacles in the way before driving through 
the standing water.
WARNING!
Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving  through standing water. This will minimize 
wave effects.
Driving through standing water may cause 
damage to your vehicle’s drivetrain compo -
nents. Always inspect your vehicle’s fluids 
(i.e., engine oil, transmission, axle, etc.) for 
signs of contamination (i.e., fluid that is milky 
or foamy in appearance) after driving through 
standing water. Do not continue to operate 
the vehicle if any fluid appears contaminated, 
as this may result in further damage. Such 
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle 
Limited Warranty.
Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can 
cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause 
serious internal damage to the engine. Such 
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle 
Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
4
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84MULTIMEDIA  
Doors & Locks
Key Off/Engine Off Options
When the Doors & Locks button is pressed on the touchscreen, the system displays the options related to locking and unlocking the vehicle’s doors.
NOTE:Depending on the vehicle’s options, feature settings may vary.
Setting Name Description
Sound Horn With Lock This setting will sound the horn when the key fob’s Lock button is pushed. The 
“Off” setting will not sound the horn. The “1st Press” setting will sound the 
horn when the Lock button is pushed once. The “2nd Press” setting will sound 
the horn when the Lock button is pushed twice.
Auto Door Locks This setting will allow you to change if the doors lock automatically when the 
vehicle reaches 12 mph (20 km/h).
When the Key Off/Engine Off Options button is pressed on the touchscreen, the system displays the option related to vehicle shut off. These settings will only 
activate when the ignition is set to OFF.
NOTE:Depending on the vehicle’s options, feature settings may vary.
Setting Name
Description
Radio Off Delay This setting will allow you to set the amount of time the radio remains on after 
the vehicle has been turned off. The “0 min” setting will shut the radio off the 
moment the vehicle is turned off. The “20 min” setting will leave the radio on 
for 20 minutes after the vehicle has been turned off or until one of the doors 
has been opened.
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132SAFETY  
(Continued)
ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL (EBC) 
S
YSTEM 
Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced 
Electronic Brake Control (EBC) system that 
includes the Brake Assist System (BAS), Traction 
Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), 
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Roll 
Mitigation (ERM) and Trailer Sway Control (TSC). All 
systems work together to enhance vehicle stability 
and control in various driving conditions and are 
commonly referred to as ESC.
Brake Assist System (BAS) 
BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s braking 
capability during emergency braking maneuvers. 
The system detects an emergency braking 
situation 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.Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 
ESC enhances directional control and stability of 
the vehicle under various driving conditions. ESC 
corrects for over/under steering of the vehicle by 
applying the brake of the appropriate wheel to 
counteract the above conditions. Engine power 
may also be reduced to help the vehicle maintain 
the desired path.
Oversteer — when the vehicle is turning more 
than appropriate for the steering wheel position.
Understeer — when the vehicle is turning less 
than appropriate for the steering wheel position. ESC uses sensors in the vehicle to determine the 
vehicle path intended by the driver and compares 
it to the actual path of the vehicle. When the actual 
path does not match the intended path, ESC 
applies the brake of the appropriate wheel to 
assist in counteracting the oversteer or understeer 
condition.
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.
WARNING!
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot 
prevent the natural laws of physics from 
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the 
traction afforded by prevailing road condi
-
tions. ESC cannot prevent accidents, including 
those resulting from excessive speed in turns, 
driving on very slippery surfaces, or hydro -
planing. ESC also cannot prevent accidents 
resulting from loss of vehicle control due to 
inappropriate driver input for the conditions. 
Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can 
prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ESC 
equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a 
reckless or dangerous manner which could 
jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of 
others.
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