wheel CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2023 User Guide

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL71
Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level reaches approximately
1.85 gal (7 L) this warning light will turn on, and
remain on until fuel is added.
A single warning chime will sound with Low Fuel Warning.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
windshield washer fluid is low.
Service Automatic Emergency Braking
(AEB) or Pedestrian Emergency Braking
(PEB) Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
fault in the AEB Warning System. Contact an
authorized dealer for service
Úpage 129.
Service Stop/Start System Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
Stop/Start system is not functioning properly
and service is required. Contact an authorized
dealer for service
Úpage 85.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light
The warning light switches on and a message is
displayed to indicate that the tire pressure is
lower than the recommended value and/or
that slow pressure loss is occurring. In these
cases, optimal tire duration and fuel consumption may not
be guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition previously
mentioned, the display will show the indications
corresponding to each tire.
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation
pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on
the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated
on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you
should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for
those tires.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been
equipped with a TPMS that illuminates a low tire pressure
light when one or more of your tires is significantly
underinflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure
light illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as
soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure.
Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the tire
to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also
reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect
the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper
tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to
maintain correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has
not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS
low tire pressure light.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS
malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not
operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is
combined with the low tire pressure light. When the
system detects a malfunction, the light will flash for
approximately one minute and then remain continuously
illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent
vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When
the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may
not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as
intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of
reasons, including the installation of replacement or
alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause damage to the vehicle
control system. It also could affect fuel economy and
driveability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic
converter damage and power loss will soon occur.
Immediate service is required.
CAUTION!
Do not continue driving with one or more flat tires as
handling may be compromised. Stop the vehicle,
avoiding sharp braking and steering. If a tire puncture
occurs, repair immediately using the dedicated tire
repair kit and contact an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
3

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 71

72GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS
malfunction light after replacing one or more tires or
wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or
alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to
function properly.
YELLOW INDICATOR LIGHTS
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) or
Pedestrian Emergency Braking (PEB) OFF
Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light illuminates to indicate that
Forward Collision Warning is off.
GREEN INDICATOR LIGHTS
Cruise Control Set Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the
cruise control is set to the desired speed
Úpage 86.
Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the
front fog lights are on.
KeySense Indicator Light — If Equipped
The KeySense indicator is illuminated when a
KeySense key is detected upon startup of the
vehicle. The indicator will remain lit for the
entire key cycle as a reminder that the
KeySense key is in use. While the KeySense key is in use,
the vehicle will respond to settings associated with the
KeySense profile
Úpage 10.
Parking/Headlights On Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the
parking lights or headlights are turned on.
Stop/Start Active Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the
Stop/Start function is in “Autostop” mode
Úpage 85.
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
activated 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.
WHITE INDICATOR LIGHTS
Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the
cruise control is ready, but not set Úpage 86.
Set Speed Display Indicator Light
The Set Speed Display indicator light indicates
the set speed for the Cruise Control.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original equip -
ment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and warning
have been established for the tire size equipped on
your vehicle. Undesirable system operation or sensor
damage may result when using replacement equipment
that is not of the same size, type, and/or style. After -
market wheels can cause sensor damage. Using after -
market tire sealants may cause the Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor to become inopera -
ble. After using an aftermarket tire sealant it is recom -
mended that you take your vehicle to an authorized
dealer to have your sensor function checked.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 72

STARTING AND OPERATING79
(Continued)
PARKING BRAKE
ELECTRIC PARK BRAKE (EPB)
Your vehicle is equipped with an EPB that offers simple
operation, and some additional features that make the
parking brake more convenient and useful.
The parking brake is primarily intended to prevent the
vehicle from rolling while parked. Before leaving the
vehicle, make sure that the parking brake is applied.
Also, be certain to leave the transmission in PARK.
You can engage the parking brake in two ways;
Manually, by applying the EPB switch.
 Automatically, by enabling the Auto Park Brake feature
in the customer programmable features
Úpage 105.
The EPB is located in the integrated center stack.

Electric Park Brake Switch

To apply the parking brake manually, push the switch
momentarily. You may hear a sound from the back of the
vehicle while the parking brake engages. Once the parking brake is fully engaged, the Brake Warning Light in the
instrument cluster and an indicator on the switch will
illuminate. If your foot is on the brake pedal while you
apply the parking brake, you may notice a small amount of
brake pedal movement. The parking brake can be applied
even when the ignition switch is OFF, however, it can only
be released when the ignition switch in the ACC or
ON/RUN position.
NOTE:The EPB Warning Light will illuminate if the EPB switch is
held for longer than 180 seconds. The light will extinguish
upon releasing the switch.
If the Auto Park Brake feature is enabled, the parking
brake will automatically engage whenever the
transmission is placed into PARK. Once the parking brake
is engaged, the Brake Warning Light in the instrument
cluster and the LED indicator on the switch will illuminate.
If your foot is on the brake pedal, you may notice a small
amount of brake pedal movement while the parking brake
is engaging.
The parking brake will release automatically when the
ignition is cycled to the ON/RUN position, the transmission
is in DRIVE or REVERSE, and the driver seat belt is buckled
and an attempt is made to drive the vehicle away by
pressing the accelerator pedal.

To release the parking brake manually, the ignition switch must
be in the ON/RUN position. Press on the brake pedal, then
push the parking brake switch momentarily. You may hear a
sound from the back of the vehicle while the parking brake
disengages. You may also notice a small amount of movement
in the brake pedal. Once the parking brake is fully disengaged,
the Brake Warning Light in the instrument cluster and the LED
indicator on the switch will extinguish.

NOTE:When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the front
wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away from
the curb on an uphill grade. Apply the parking brake before
placing the gear selector in PARK, otherwise the load on
the transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult
to move the gear selector out of PARK. The parking brake
should always be applied whenever the driver is not in the
vehicle.
WARNING!

Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the
parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully
when parked to guard against vehicle movement and
possible injury or damage.
 When exiting the vehicle, always make sure the igni -
tion is in the OFF position, remove the key fob from
the vehicle, and lock your 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 seri -
ously 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 location 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.4

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82STARTING AND OPERATING
BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT
I
NTERLOCK (BTSI) SYSTEM
This vehicle is equipped with a BTSI that holds the
transmission gear selector in PARK unless the brakes are
applied. To shift the transmission out of PARK, the engine
must be running and the brake pedal must be pressed.
The brake pedal must also be pressed to shift from
NEUTRAL into DRIVE or REVERSE when the vehicle is
stopped or moving at low speeds.
9-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

The transmission is controlled using a rotary electronic gear
selector located on the center console. The transmission gear
selector has PARK, REVERSE, NEUTRAL, DRIVE, and LOW shift
positions. Using the LOW position manually downshifts the
transmission to a lower gear based on vehicle speed. The
transmission gear range (PRNDL) is displayed both above the
gear selector and in the instrument cluster. To select a gear
range, simply rotate the gear selector. Push down on the gear
selector and then rotate it, to access the L position. You must
also press the brake pedal to shift the transmission out of PARK
(or NEUTRAL, when stopped or moving at low speeds). To shift
past multiple gear ranges at once (such as PARK to DRIVE),
simply rotate the gear selector to the appropriate detent. Select
the DRIVE range for normal driving.

NOTE:In the event of a mismatch between the gear selector
position and the actual transmission gear (for example,
driver selects PARK while driving), the position indicator
will blink continuously until the selector is returned to the
proper position, or the requested shift can be completed. The electronically controlled transmission adapts its shift
schedule based on driver inputs, along with environmental
and road conditions. The transmission electronics are
self-calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on a new
vehicle may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal
condition, and precision shifts will develop within a few
hundred miles (kilometers).

The 9-speed transmission has been developed to meet the
needs of current and future FWD/AWD vehicles. Software
and calibration is refined to optimize the customer’s driving
experience and fuel economy. By design, some vehicle and
driveline combinations utilize NINTH gear only in very specific
driving situations and conditions.

Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when the
accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is stopped.
Be sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when shifting
between these gears.

Transmission Gear Selector

GEAR RANGES
Do not press the accelerator pedal when shifting from
PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range.
NOTE:After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to allow the
selected gear to engage before accelerating. This is espe
-
cially important when the engine is cold.
PARK (P)
This range supplements the parking brake by locking the
transmission. The engine can be started in this range.
Never attempt to use PARK while the vehicle is in motion.
Apply the parking brake when exiting the vehicle in this
range.
When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake before
shifting the transmission to PARK. As an added
precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a
downhill grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade.
When exiting the vehicle, always:
 Apply the parking brake.
 Shift the transmission into PARK.
 Turn the ignition off.
 Remove the key fob from the vehicle.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 82

84STARTING AND OPERATING
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, if possible. If not,
shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.
3. Push and hold the ignition switch until the engine turns off.
4. Wait approximately 30 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 diagnostic 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
engine and/or transmission 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 the vehicle is cold. This is normal. The torque
converter clutch will function normally once the powertrain
is sufficiently warm.
ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION

Your vehicle is equipped with an Active Noise Cancellation
system. This system is designed to address exhaust and engine
noise. The system relies on four microphones embedded in the
headliner, which monitor exhaust and engine noise, and assists
an onboard frequency generator, which creates counteracting
sound waves in the audio system’s speakers. This helps keep
the vehicle quiet at idle and during drive.

POWER STEERING
The electric power steering system will provide increased
vehicle response and ease of maneuverability. The power
steering system adapts to different driving conditions.
If the Steering icon is displayed and the “POWER STEERING
SYSTEM OVER TEMP” message is displayed on the instrument
cluster screen, this indicates an over temperature condition in
the power steering system. Once driving conditions are safe,
pull over and let the vehicle idle for a few moments until the
icon and message turn off


Ú
page 67.
If the “SERVICE POWER STEERING" or "POWER
STEERING ASSIST OFF - SERVICE SYSTEM”
message and a steering wheel icon are displayed
on the instrument cluster screen, it indicates that
the vehicle needs to be taken to an authorized dealer for
service. It is likely the vehicle has lost power steering
assistance

Ú
page 67.

NOTE:
Even if the power steering assistance is no longer oper -
ational, it is still possible to steer the vehicle. Under
these conditions there will be a substantial increase in
steering effort, especially at low speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
 The power steering system is fully electric; it requires
no power steering fluid.
 If the condition persists, see an authorized dealer for
service.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose a
safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be
obtained as soon as possible.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 84

86STARTING AND OPERATING
TO MANUALLY TURN OFF THE
S
TOP/START SYSTEM

Stop/Start OFF Switch

Push the Stop/Start OFF switch (located on the
switch bank). The light on the switch will illuminate.
The “STOP/START OFF” message will appear in the
instrument cluster display and the Autostop mode
will be disabled
Úpage 67.
NOTE:The Stop/Start system will reset itself back to the ON
position every time the ignition is turned OFF and back ON.
TO MANUALLY TURN ON THE
S
TOP/START SYSTEM
After turning off the Stop/Start system, push the
Stop/Start OFF switch again (located on the switch bank).
The light on the switch will turn off.
SYSTEM MALFUNCTION

If there is a malfunction in the Stop/Start system, the system
will not shut down the engine. A “Service STOP/START System”
message and a yellow Stop/Start telltale will appear in the
instrument cluster display

Ú
page 62.

If the “Service STOP/START System” message appears in
the instrument cluster display, have the system checked
by an authorized dealer.
CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with the Cruise Control
system for cruising at a constant preset speed.
CRUISE CONTROL
When engaged, the Cruise Control takes over accelerator
operations at speeds greater than 20 mph (32 km/h).
The Cruise Control buttons are located on the right side of
the steering wheel.

Cruise Control Buttons

1 — On/Off
2 — CANC/Cancel
3 — SET (+)/Accel
4 — RES/Resume
5 — SET (-)/Decel
WARNING!
Cruise 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 Cruise Control in
heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, icy,
snow-covered or slippery.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 86

92STARTING AND OPERATING
PARKVIEW REAR BACK UP CAMERA

The ParkView Rear Back Up Camera allows you to see an
on-screen image of the rear surroundings of your vehicle
whenever the gear selector is put into REVERSE. The image will
be displayed on the touchscreen display along with a caution
note “Check Entire Surroundings” across the top of the screen.
After five seconds, this note will disappear. The ParkView Rear
Back Up Camera is located on the rear of the vehicle above the
rear license plate.

NOTE:The ParkView Rear Back Up Camera has programmable
modes of operation that may be selected through the
Uconnect system
Úpage 105.
When the vehicle is shifted out of REVERSE with camera
delay turned off, the rear camera mode is exited and the
previous screen appears.
When the vehicle is shifted out of REVERSE with camera
delay turned on, the camera image will continue to be
displayed for up to 10 seconds unless the vehicle speed
exceeds 8 mph (13 km/h), the vehicle is shifted into PARK, or the ignition is placed in the OFF position.
A touchscreen X button to disable the camera image is
made available when the vehicle is not in REVERSE gear.
Display of the camera image after shifting out of REVERSE
can be disabled through the camera settings menu with
the Uconnect system.
When enabled, active guidelines are overlaid on the image
to illustrate the width of the vehicle and its projected
backup path based on the steering wheel position. Different colored zones indicate the distance to the rear of
the vehicle.
The following table shows the approximate distances for
each zone:
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.

Before using ParkSense, it is strongly recommended
that the ball mount and hitch ball assembly be
disconnected from the vehicle when the vehicle is
not used for towing. Failure to do so can result in
injury or damage to vehicles or obstacles because
the hitch ball will be much closer to the obstacle than
the rear fascia when the vehicle sounds the contin -
uous tone. Also, the sensors could detect the ball
mount and hitch ball assembly, depending on its size
and shape, giving a false indication that an obstacle
is behind the vehicle.
CAUTION!
 ParkSense is only a parking aid and it is unable to
recognize every obstacle, including small obstacles.
Parking curbs might be temporarily detected or not
detected at all. Obstacles located above or below the
sensors will not be detected when they are in close
proximity.

 The vehicle must be driven slowly when using ParkSense
in order to be able to stop in time when an obstacle is
detected. It is recommended that the driver looks over
his/her shoulder when using ParkSense.

WARNING!
Zone Distance To The Rear Of The Vehicle
Red 0 - 1 ft (0 - 30 cm)
Yellow 1 ft - 6.5 ft (30 cm - 2 m)
Green 6.5 ft or greater (2 m or greater)
WARNING!
Drivers must be careful when backing up even when
using the ParkView Rear Back Up Camera. Always
check carefully behind your vehicle, and be sure to
check for pedestrians, animals, other vehicles,
obstructions, or blind spots before backing up. You are
responsible for the safety of your surroundings and
must continue to pay attention while backing up.
Failure to do so can result in serious injury or death.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 92

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.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 94

STARTING AND OPERATING95
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle
and trailer when weighed in combination.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear
axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles
evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or
rear GAWR
Úpage 93.
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.
The electronic TSC (if equipped) 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

A 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
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. TSC and a Weight-Distributing (load equalizing) Hitch
are recommended for heavier TW and may be required
depending on vehicle and trailer configuration/loading to
comply with GAWR requirements.

WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the maximum
front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can
result if either rating is exceeded. You could lose control
of the vehicle and have a collision.
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight-Distributing Hitch
system may reduce handling, stability, braking perfor -
mance, and could result in a collision.

 Weight-Distributing Hitch systems may not be compatible
with surge brake couplers. Consult with your hitch and
trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational Vehicle
dealer for additional information.

4

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 95

STARTING AND OPERATING99
(Continued)
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on
your fascia/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 equipment 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

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”
Úpage 192. When towing a trailer, never exceed the
GAWR or GCWR ratings.
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.
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 over -
load your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a
loss of control, poor performance or damage to
brakes, axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspen -
sion, 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!
4

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