ECU CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2023 User Guide

36GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
Head Restraints — Second Row Quad
Seats
The second row outboard head restraints, as well as the
removable 8th passenger seat (if equipped), may have
adjustable head restraints.
NOTE:If equipped with Stow ‘n Go seating, the head restraints
are non-adjustable and non-removable. Do not pull on
non-adjustable head restraints when folding the seat.
To raise the head restraint, pull upward on the head
restraint. To lower the head restraint, push the adjustment
button, located at the base of the head restraint, and push
downward.
To remove the head restraint, raise it as far as it can go.
Then, push the release button and the adjustment button
at the base of each post while pulling the head restraint
up. Seatback angle may need to be adjusted to fully remove the head restraint. To reinstall the head restraint,
put the head restraint posts into the holes and push
downward. Then, adjust the head restraint to the
appropriate height.
Head Restraints — Third Row
The outboard head restraints can be manually folded
forward for improved rearward visibility. Pull the release
strap to fold them forward.

Release Straps

NOTE:
 The head restraints must be raised manually when
occupying the third row.
 Do not fold if there are passengers seated in the third
row seats.

The head restraint in the center position can be raised and
lowered for tether routing or height adjustment

Ú
page 134.

NOTE:To remove the center head restraint, raise it as far as it
can go. Then, push the release button and the adjustment
button at the base of each post while pulling the head
restraint up. To reinstall the head restraint, put the head
restraint posts into the holes and push downward. Then,
using the adjustment button, adjust the head restraint to
the appropriate height.

Adjustment Button

WARNING!
A loose head restraint thrown forward in a collision or
hard stop could cause serious injury or death to occu -
pants of the vehicle. Always securely stow removed
head restraints in a location outside the occupant
compartment.
 ALL the head restraints MUST be reinstalled in the
vehicle to properly protect the occupants. Follow the
preceding reinstallation instructions prior to oper -
ating the vehicle or occupying a seat.
WARNING!
ALL the head restraints MUST be reinstalled in the
vehicle to properly protect the occupants. Follow the
preceding reinstallation instructions prior to operating
the vehicle or occupying a seat.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 36

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE51
NOTE:
Push the lock rod inward for the locked position.

 Pull outward on the lock rod for the unlocked position.

2. Pull the latch located near the second row seat to open the floor panel.

Floor Latch

STORAGE BIN SAFETY WARNING
Carefully follow these warnings to help prevent personal
injury or damage to your vehicle:
SEAT STORAGE BIN COVER EMERGENCY
RELEASE LEVER
As a security measure, the Seat Storage Bin Cover has
an Emergency Release Lever built into the latching
mechanism.

Storage Bin Cover Emergency Release Lever

NOTE:
In the event of an individual being locked inside the
storage bin, the storage bin cover can be opened from
inside of the bin by pushing on the glow-in-the-dark lever
attached to the storage bin cover latching mechanism.
WARNING!
In a collision, serious injury could result if the seat
storage bin covers are not properly latched.
 Do not drive the vehicle with the storage bin covers
open.
 Keep the storage bin covers closed and latched while
the vehicle is in motion.
 Do not operate the storage bin covers while the
vehicle is in motion.
 Do not use a storage bin latch as a tie down.
CAUTION!
The storage bin cover must lie flat and be latched to
avoid damage from contact with the front seat tracks,
which have minimal clearance to the cover. If the
storage bin cover is left in the open position, front seat
adjustment may damage the cover.
WARNING!
Always close the storage bin covers when your
vehicle is unattended.
 Do not allow children to have access to the second
row seat storage bins. Once in the storage bin, young
children may not be able to escape. If trapped in the
storage bin, children can die from suffocation or heat
stroke.
 In a collision, serious injury could result if the seat
storage bin covers are not properly latched.
 Do not drive the vehicle with the storage bin covers
open. Keep the storage bin covers closed and
latched while the vehicle is in motion.
 Do not operate the storage bin covers while the
vehicle is in motion.
 Do not use a storage bin latch as a tie down.
CAUTION!
The storage bin cover must lie flat and be latched to
avoid damage from contact with the front seat tracks,
which have minimal clearance to the cover. If the
storage bin cover is left in the open position, front seat
adjustment may damage the cover.
2

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL67
NOTE:
The charging system is independent from load reduc -
tion. The charging system performs a diagnostic on the
charging system continuously.
 If the Battery Charge Warning Light is on it may indicate
a problem with the charging system
Úpage 68.
The electrical loads that may be switched off (if equipped),
and vehicle functions which can be effected by load
reduction:
 Heated Seat/Vented Seats/Heated Wheel
 Heated/Cooled Cup Holders — If Equipped
 Rear Defroster And Heated Mirrors
 HVAC System
 115 Volts AC Power Inverter System
 Audio and Telematics System
Loss of the battery charge may indicate one or more of the
following conditions:
 The charging system cannot deliver enough electrical
power to the vehicle system because the electrical
loads are larger than the capability of charging system.
The charging system is still functioning properly.
 Turning on all possible vehicle electrical loads (e.g.
HVAC to max settings, exterior and interior lights, over -
loaded power outlets +12 Volts, 150W, USB ports)
during certain driving conditions (city driving, towing,
frequent stopping).
 Installing options like additional lights, upfitter elec -
trical accessories, audio systems, alarms and similar
devices. 
Unusual driving cycles (short trips separated by long
parking periods).
 The vehicle was parked for an extended period of time
(weeks, months).
 The battery was recently replaced and was not charged
completely.
 The battery was discharged by an electrical load left on
when the vehicle was parked.
 The battery was used for an extended period with the
engine not running to supply radio, lights, chargers,
+12 Volt portable appliances like vacuum cleaners,
game consoles and similar devices.
What to do when an electrical load reduction action
message is present (“Battery Saver On” or “Battery Saver
Mode”)
During a trip:
 Reduce power to unnecessary loads if possible:
 Turn off redundant lights (interior or exterior)
 Check what may be plugged in to power outlets
+12 Volts, 150W, USB ports
 Check HVAC settings (blower, temperature)
 Check the audio settings (volume)
After a trip:
 Check if any aftermarket equipment was installed
(additional lights, upfitter electrical accessories, audio
systems, alarms) and review specifications if any (load
and Ignition Off Draw currents).
 Evaluate the latest driving cycles (distance, driving
time and parking time). 
The vehicle should have service performed if the
message is still present during consecutive trips and
the evaluation of the vehicle and driving pattern did not
help to identify the cause.WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES
The warning/indicator lights will illuminate in the
instrument panel together with a dedicated message
and/or acoustic signal when applicable. These indications
are indicative and precautionary and as such must not
be considered as exhaustive and/or alternative to the
information contained in the Owner’s Manual, which you
are advised to read carefully in all cases. Always refer to
the information in this chapter in the event of a failure
indication. All active warning/indicator lights will display
first if applicable. The system check menu may appear
different based upon equipment options and current
vehicle status. Some warning/indicator lights are optional
and may not appear.
RED WARNING LIGHTS
Air Bag Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
fault with the air bag, and will turn on for four to
eight seconds as a bulb check when the ignition is
placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position.
This light will illuminate with a single chime when a fault with
the air bag has been detected, it will stay on until the fault is
cleared. If the light is either not on during startup, stays on, or
turns on while driving, have the system inspected at an
authorized dealer as soon as possible.

3

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70GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Vehicle Security Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will flash at a fast rate for
approximately 15 seconds when the vehicle
security system is arming, and then will flash
slowly until the vehicle is disarmed.
YELLOW WARNING LIGHTS
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning
Light
This warning light monitors the ABS. The light
will turn on when the ignition is placed in the
ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position and may
stay on for as long as four seconds.
If the ABS light remains on or turns on while driving,
then the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system is not
functioning and service is required as soon as possible.
However, the conventional brake system will continue to
operate normally, assuming the Brake Warning Light is not
also on.
If the ABS light does not turn on when the ignition is placed
in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position, have the brake
system inspected by an authorized dealer.
Electric Park Brake Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate the
Electric Park Brake is not functioning properly
and service is required. Contact an authorized
dealer.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active
Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light will indicate when the ESC
system is Active. The ESC Indicator Light in the
instrument cluster will come on when the ignition is
placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position,
and when ESC is activated. It should go out with the engine
running. If the ESC Indicator Light comes on continuously with
the engine running, a malfunction has been detected in the
ESC system. If this warning light remains on after several
ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been driven several miles
(kilometers) at speeds greater than 30 mph (48 km/h), see an
authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the problem
diagnosed and corrected.

 The ESC OFF Indicator Light and the ESC Indicator Light
come on momentarily each time the ignition is placed
in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position.
 The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds
when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop
when ESC becomes inactive.
 This light will come on when the vehicle is in an ESC
event.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light indicates the ESC is off.
Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN or
ACC/ON/RUN, the ESC system will be on, even
if it was turned off previously.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator
Warning Light (MIL)

The Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
is a part of an Onboard Diagnostic System called
OBD II that monitors engine and automatic
transmission control systems. This warning light
will illuminate when the ignition is in the ON/RUN position
before engine start. If the bulb does not come on when turning
the ignition switch from OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition
checked promptly.

Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap,
poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the light after engine
start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on
through several typical driving styles. In most situations,
the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing.
When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to alert
serious conditions that could lead to immediate loss of
power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle
should be serviced by an authorized dealer as soon as
possible if this occurs.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating conditions.
This can cause a fire if you drive slowly or park over
flammable substances such as dry plants, wood,
cardboard, etc. This could result in death or serious
injury to the driver, occupants or others.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL73
BLUE INDICATOR LIGHTS
High Beam Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate to indicate
that the high beam headlights are on. With the
low beams activated, push the multifunction
lever forward (toward the front of the vehicle) to
turn on the high beams. Pull the multifunction lever
rearward (toward the rear of the vehicle) to turn off the
high beams. If the high beams are off, pull the lever toward
you for a temporary high beam on, “flash to pass”
scenario.
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated Onboard
Diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors the
performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic
transmission control systems. When these systems are
operating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent
performance and fuel economy, as well as emissions well
within current government regulations. If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist your service technician in making repairs. Although
your vehicle will usually be drivable and not need towing,
see an authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM
(OBD II) CYBERSECURITY
Your vehicle is required to have OBD II and a connection
port to allow access to information related to the
performance of your emissions controls. Authorized
service technicians may need to access this information to
assist with the diagnosis and service of your vehicle and
emissions system
Úpage 104.
CAUTION!

Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause further
damage to the emission control system. It could also
affect fuel economy and driveability. The vehicle
must be serviced before any emissions tests can be
performed.
 If the MIL is flashing while the vehicle is running,
severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
WARNING!
ONLY an authorized service technician should
connect equipment to the OBD II connection port in
order to read the VIN, diagnose, or service your
vehicle.
 If unauthorized equipment is connected to the OBD II
connection port, such as a driver-behavior tracking
device, it may:
 Be possible that vehicle systems, including
safety related systems, could be impaired or a
loss of vehicle control could occur that may
result in an accident involving serious injury or
death.
 Access, or allow others to access, information
stored in your vehicle systems, including
personal information.
3

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 73

76STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
(Continued)
ALWAYS DO A VISUAL CHECK
that your vehicle is in PARK
by looking for the “P” in the instrument cluster display and
on the gear selector. As an added precaution, always apply
the parking brake.
If the vehicle is not in PARK and the driver attempts to turn
off the engine, if certain conditions are met, the vehicle
will AutoPark, automatically shifting the vehicle’s
transmission to the PARK position. The gear selector will
automatically reset itself to the PARK position. The
vehicle’s ignition will then move to the OFF position
(engine off). When AutoPark is activated the instrument
cluster will display the message “AutoPark Engaged”.
AutoPark will engage when all of these conditions are met:
 Vehicle is equipped with a gear selector
 Vehicle is not in PARK
 Vehicle speed is 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h) or less
 Driver has pushed the ENGINE START/STOP button
If the vehicle is not in PARK and the driver exits the vehicle
with the engine running, if certain conditions are met, the
vehicle will AutoPark, automatically shifting the vehicle’s
transmission to the PARK position. The Electric Park Brake
SAFE HOLD feature will also activate in some conditions
Úpage 80. AutoPark will engage when all of these conditions are met:

Vehicle is equipped with a gear selector
 Vehicle is not in PARK
 Vehicle speed is 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h) or less
 Driver’s door is ajar
 Driver’s seat belt is unbuckled
 Brake pedal is not pressed
The message “ AutoPark Engaged ” will display in the
instrument cluster.
AutoPark In Stop/Start Autostop Mode
AutoPark will engage when all of these conditions are met:
 Vehicle is equipped with a gear selector
 Vehicle is not in PARK
 Vehicle speed is 1.2 mph (1.9 km/h) or less
 Driver’s door is ajar
 Driver’s seat belt is unbuckled or brake pedal is not
pressed
The message “ AutoPark Engaged ” will display in the
instrument cluster.
CAUTION!
Engine will remain running.
WARNING!
 Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the
parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully
when exiting the vehicle to guard against vehicle
movement and possible injury or damage.
Your vehicle could move and injure you and others if
it is not in PARK. Check by trying to move the trans -
mission gear selector out of PARK with the brake
pedal released. Make sure the transmission is in
PARK before exiting the vehicle.
 The transmission may not engage PARK if the vehicle
is moving. Always bring the vehicle to a complete
stop before shifting to PARK, and verify that the
transmission gear position indicator solidly indicates
PARK (P) without blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is
completely stopped, and the PARK position is prop -
erly indicated, before exiting the vehicle.

 It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL if the
engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not
firmly pressing the brake pedal, the vehicle could accel -
erate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control
of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift
into gear when the engine is idling normally and your foot
is firmly pressing the brake pedal.

 Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure
those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles,
you should never exit a vehicle while the engine is
running. Before exiting a vehicle, always come to a
complete stop, then apply the parking brake, shift
the transmission into PARK, and turn the ignition
OFF. When the ignition is in the OFF position, the
transmission is locked in PARK, securing the vehicle
against unwanted movement.
WARNING!

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 76

78STARTING AND OPERATING
TO TURN OFF THE ENGINE USING
ENGINE START/STOP B
UTTON

1. Place the gear selector in PARK, then push and
release the ENGINE START/STOP button.

2. The ignition switch will return to the OFF position.
3. If the gear selector is not in PARK, the ENGINE START/STOP button must be held for two seconds or
three short pushes in a row with the vehicle speed
above 5 mph (8 km/h) before the engine will shut off.
The ignition switch position will remain in the ACC
position until the gear selector is in PARK and the
button is pushed twice to the OFF position. If the gear
selector is not in PARK and the ENGINE START/STOP
button is pushed once, the instrument cluster will
display a “Vehicle Not In Park” message and the
engine will remain running. Never leave a vehicle out
of the PARK position, or it could roll.
NOTE:If the ignition switch is left in the ACC or RUN (engine not
running) position and the transmission is in PARK, the
system will automatically time out after 30 minutes of
inactivity and the ignition will switch to the OFF position.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED
The engine block heater warms the engine and permits
quicker starts in cold weather.
Connect the cord to a 110-115 Volt AC electrical outlet
with a grounded, three-wire extension cord. For ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C), the engine
block heater is recommended. For ambient temperatures
below -20°F (-29°C), the engine block heater is required.
The engine block heater cord is routed under the hood,
behind to the passenger’s side headlamp. See the
following steps to properly use the engine block heater:

1. Locate the engine block heater cord (behind the
passenger’s side headlamp).

2. Undo the hook-and-loop strap that secures the heater cord in place.
3. Pull the cord to the front of the vehicle and plug it into a grounded, three-wire extension cord.
4. After the vehicle is running, reattach the cord to the hook-and-loop strap and properly stow it away behind
the passenger’s side headlamp.
NOTE:
The engine block heater cord is a factory installed
option. If your vehicle is not equipped, heater cords are
available from an authorized dealer.
 The engine block heater will require 110 Volt AC and
6.5 Amps to activate the heater element.
 The engine block heater must be plugged in at least
one hour to have an adequate warming effect on the
engine.
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS
A long break-in period is not required for the engine and
drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km).
After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or
55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within the
limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good break-in.
Wide-open throttle acceleration in low gear can be
detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a
high-quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil changes
should be consistent with anticipated climate conditions
under which vehicle operations will occur. For the
recommended viscosity and quality grades
Úpage 197.
NOTE:A new engine may consume some oil during its first few
thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This should be
considered a normal part of the break-in and not inter -
preted as a problem.
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the engine block heater cord
before driving. Damage to the 110-115 Volt electrical
cord could cause electrocution.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral Oil in
the engine or damage may result.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 78

80STARTING AND OPERATING
If exceptional circumstances should make it necessary to
engage the parking brake while the vehicle is in motion,
push on the EPB switch for as long as engagement is
desired. The Brake Warning Light will illuminate, and a
continuous chime will sound. The rear stop lamps will also
be illuminated automatically while the vehicle remains in
motion. To disengage the parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, release the switch. If the vehicle is brought to a
complete stop using the parking brake, when the vehicle
reaches approximately 3 mph (4.8 km/h), the parking
brake will remain engaged.
In the unlikely event of a malfunction of the EPB system,
a yellow EPB Warning Light will illuminate. This may be
accompanied by the Brake Warning Light flashing. In this
case, urgent service of the EPB system is required. Do not
rely on the parking brake to hold the vehicle stationary.
Auto Park Brake

The Electric Park Brake (EPB) can be programmed to be applied
automatically whenever the vehicle is at a standstill and the
automatic transmission is placed in PARK. Auto Park Brake is
enabled and disabled by customer selection through the
customer programmable features


Ú
page 105.

SafeHold
SafeHold is a safety feature of the Electric Park Brake
(EPB) system that will engage the parking brake
automatically if the vehicle is left unsecured. If the
automatic transmission is not in PARK, the seat belt is
unbuckled, the driver door is open, the vehicle is at a
standstill, and there is no attempt to press the brake pedal
or accelerator pedal, the parking brake will automatically
engage to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
SafeHold can be temporarily bypassed by pushing the EPB
while the driver door is open and brake pedal is pressed.
Once manually bypassed, SafeHold will be enabled again
once the vehicle reaches 12 mph (20 km/h) or the ignition
is cycled to the OFF position and back to ON again.
Brake Service Mode
We recommend having your brakes serviced by an
authorized dealer. You should only make repairs for
which you have the knowledge and the right equipment.
You should only enter Brake Service Mode during brake
service.
When servicing your rear brakes, it may be necessary for
you or your technician to push the rear piston into the rear
caliper bore. With the Electric Park Brake (EPB) system,
this can only be done after retracting the EPB actuator.
Fortunately, actuator retraction can be done easily by
entering Brake Service Mode in your vehicle
Úpage 105.
This menu-based system will guide you through the steps
necessary to retract the EPB actuator in order to perform
rear brake service.
Brake Service Mode has requirements that must be met in
order to be activated:
 The vehicle must be at a standstill.
 The parking brake must be unapplied.
 The transmission must be in PARK or NEUTRAL.
While in Brake Service Mode, the EPB Warning Light will
flash continuously while the ignition switch is ON.
When brake service work is complete, the following steps
must be followed to reset the parking brake system to
normal operation:
 Ensure the vehicle is at a standstill.
 Press the brake pedal with moderate force.
 Apply the EPB.

Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged before
driving; failure to do so can lead to brake failure and
a collision.
 Always fully apply the parking brake when leaving
your vehicle, or it may roll and cause damage or
injury. Also be certain to leave the transmission in
PARK. Failure to do so may allow the vehicle to roll
and cause damage or injury.
 Driving the vehicle with the parking brake engaged,
or repeated use of the parking brake to slow the
vehicle may cause serious damage to the brake
system.
CAUTION!
If the Brake System Warning Light remains on with the
parking brake released, a brake system malfunction
is indicated. Have the brake system serviced by an
authorized dealer immediately.
WARNING!

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STARTING AND OPERATING81
(Continued)
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
You must press and hold the brake pedal while shifting out
of PARK.
IGNITION PARK INTERLOCK
This vehicle is equipped with an Ignition Park Interlock
which requires the transmission to be in PARK before the
ignition can be turned to the OFF position. This helps the
driver avoid inadvertently leaving the vehicle without
placing the transmission in PARK. This system also locks
the transmission in PARK whenever the ignition is in the
OFF position.
NOTE:The transmission is NOT locked in PARK when the ignition
is in the ACC position (even though the engine will be off).
Ensure that the transmission is in PARK, and the ignition
is OFF (not in ACC position) before exiting the vehicle.
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or around a motor
vehicle. Do only that service work for which you have
the knowledge and the right equipment. If you have any
doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take
your vehicle to a competent mechanic.
WARNING!
Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the
parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully
when exiting the vehicle to guard against vehicle
movement and possible injury or damage.
 Your vehicle could move and injure you and others if
it is not in PARK. Check by trying to move the trans -
mission gear selector out of PARK with the brake
pedal released. Make sure the transmission is in
PARK before exiting the vehicle.
 The transmission may not engage PARK if the vehicle
is moving. Always bring the vehicle to a complete
stop before shifting to PARK, and verify that the
transmission gear position indicator solidly indicates
PARK (P) without blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is
completely stopped, and the PARK position is prop -
erly indicated, before exiting the vehicle.

 It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL if the
engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not
firmly pressing the brake pedal, the vehicle could accel -
erate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control
of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift
into gear when the engine is idling normally and your foot
is firmly pressing the brake pedal.

 Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure
those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles,
you should never exit a vehicle while the engine is
running. Before exiting a vehicle, always come to a
complete stop, then apply the parking brake, shift
the transmission into PARK, and turn the ignition
OFF. When the ignition is in the OFF position, the
transmission is locked in PARK, securing the vehicle
against unwanted movement.
 When exiting the vehicle, always make sure the igni -
tion is in the OFF position, remove the key fob from
the vehicle, and lock the vehicle.

 Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with access to
an unlocked vehicle. Allowing children to be in a vehicle
unattended is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child
or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Children
should be warned not to touch the parking brake, brake
pedal or the transmission gear selector.
 Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle (or in a loca -
tion accessible to children), and do not leave the ignition
in the ACC or ON/RUN position. A child could operate
power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.

WARNING!CAUTION!
Damage to the transmission may occur if the following
precautions are not observed:
 Shift into or out of PARK or REVERSE only after the
vehicle has come to a complete stop.
 Do not shift between PARK, REVERSE, NEUTRAL, or
DRIVE when the engine is above idle speed.
 Before shifting into any gear, make sure your foot is
firmly pressing the brake pedal.
4

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94STARTING AND OPERATING
Payload
The payload of a vehicle is defined as the allowable load
weight a truck can carry, including the weight of the driver,
all passengers, options and cargo.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum permissible load on the front
and rear axles. The load must be distributed in the cargo
area so that the GAWR of each axle is not exceeded.
Each axle GAWR is determined by the components in
the system with the lowest load carrying capacity (axle,
springs, tires or wheels). Heavier axles or suspension
components sometimes specified by purchasers for
increased durability do not necessarily increase the
vehicle's GVWR.
Tire Size
The tire size on the Vehicle Certification Label represents
the actual tire size on your vehicle. Replacement tires
must be equal to the load capacity of this tire size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire size
listed.
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle for
all loading conditions up to full GAWR.
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total weight
of the vehicle with all fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full
capacity conditions, and with no occupants or cargo
loaded into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight values are determined by weighing your vehicle on a
commercial scale before any occupants or cargo are
added.
Loading
The actual total weight and the weight of the front and rear
of your vehicle at the ground can best be determined by
weighing it when it is loaded and ready for operation.
The entire vehicle should first be weighed on a commercial
scale to ensure that the GVWR has not been exceeded.
The weight on the front and rear of the vehicle should then
be determined separately to be sure that the load is
properly distributed over the front and rear axle. Weighing
the vehicle may show that the GAWR of either the front or
rear axles has been exceeded but the total load is within
the specified GVWR. If so, weight must be shifted from
front to rear or rear to front as appropriate until the
specified weight limitations are met. Store the heavier
items down low and be sure that the weight is distributed
equally. Stow all loose items securely before driving.
Improper weight distributions can have an adverse effect
on the way your vehicle steers and handles and the way
the brakes operate.
TRAILER TOWING
In this section you will find safety tips and information on
limits to the type of towing you can reasonably do with your
vehicle. Before towing a trailer, carefully review this
information to tow your load as efficiently and safely as
possible.
To maintain the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage,
follow the requirements and recommendations in this
manual concerning vehicles used for trailer towing.
COMMON TOWING DEFINITIONS
The following trailer towing related definitions will assist
you in understanding the following information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle. This
includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongue weight.
The total load must be limited so that you do not exceed
the GVWR
Úpage 93.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all cargo,
consumables and equipment (permanent or temporary)
loaded in or on the trailer in its "loaded and ready for
operation" condition.
The recommended way to measure GTW is to put your fully
loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the
trailer must be supported by the scale.
WARNING!
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or
the maximum front and rear GAWR. If you do, parts on
your vehicle can break, or it can change the way your
vehicle handles. This could cause you to lose control.
Overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.

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