automatic transmission DODGE DURANGO 2023 User Guide

108STARTING AND OPERATING
AutoStick mode has the following operational
benefits:
The transmission will automatically downshift
as the vehicle slows (to prevent engine lugging)
and will display the current gear.
The transmission will automatically downshift to
FIRST gear when coming to a stop. After a stop,
the driver should manually upshift (+) the trans -
mission as the vehicle is accelerated.
You can start out, from a stop, in FIRST or
SECOND gear. Tapping (+) at a stop will allow
starting in SECOND gear. Starting out in
SECOND gear can be helpful in snowy or icy
conditions.
If a requested downshift would cause the
engine to over-speed, that shift will not occur.
The system will ignore attempts to upshift at too
low of a vehicle speed.
Holding the (-) paddle pressed, or holding the
gear selector in the (-) position, will downshift
the transmission to the lowest gear possible at
the current speed.
Transmission shifting will be more noticeable
when AutoStick is enabled.
The system may revert to automatic shift mode
if a fault or overheat condition is detected. To disengage AutoStick mode, return the gear
selector to the DRIVE (D) position, or press and
hold the (+) paddle shifter until "D" is indicated in
the instrument cluster. You can shift in or out of
AutoStick mode at any time without taking your
foot off the accelerator pedal.
SPORT MODE — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle is equipped with a SPORT Mode
feature. The engine, transmission, and steering
systems are all set to their SPORT settings. SPORT
Mode will provide improved throttle response and
modified transmission shift points for an enhanced
driving experience, as well as greater amount of
steering feel. This mode may be activated and
deactivated by pushing the SPORT button on the
instrument panel switch bank.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION
SINGLE-SPEED OPERATING
I
NSTRUCTIONS/PRECAUTIONS —
I
F EQUIPPED
This system contains a single-speed (HI range only)
transfer case, which provides convenient full-time
All-Wheel Drive (AWD). No driver interaction is
required. The Brake Traction Control (BTC) System,
which combines standard ABS and Traction
Control, provides resistance to any wheel that is
slipping to allow additional torque transfer to
wheels with traction.
NOTE:This system is not appropriate for conditions where
AWD LOW is recommended Ú page 150.
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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114STARTING AND OPERATING
STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
The Stop/Start function is designed to reduce fuel
consumption. The system will stop the engine
automatically during a vehicle stop if the required
conditions are met. Releasing the brake pedal or
pressing the accelerator pedal will automatically
re-start the engine.
This vehicle has been upgraded with a heavy duty
starter, enhanced battery, and other upgraded
engine parts, to handle the additional engine
starts.
AUTOSTOP MODE
The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every
normal customer engine start. At that time, the
system will go into STOP/START READY.
To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following
Must Occur:
The system must be in STOP/START READY
state. A STOP/START READY message will be
displayed in the instrument cluster display
within the Stop/Start section Ú page 79.
The vehicle must be completely stopped.
The gear selector must be in a forward gear and
the brake pedal pressed.
The engine will shut down, the tachometer will
move to the zero position and the Stop/Start
telltale will illuminate indicating you are in Autostop. Customer settings will be maintained
upon return to an engine running condition.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check
many safety and comfort conditions to see if they
are fulfilled. Detailed information about the
operation of the Stop/Start system may be viewed
in the instrument cluster display Stop/Start
Screen. In the following situations, the engine will
not stop:
Driver’s seat belt is not buckled.
Driver’s door is not closed.
Battery temperature is too warm or cold.
Battery charge is low.
The vehicle is on a steep grade.
Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an
acceptable cabin temperature has not been
achieved.
HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower
speed.
HVAC is set to MAX A/C.
Engine has not reached normal operating
temperature.
The transmission is not in a forward gear.
Hood is open.
Brake pedal is not pressed with sufficient pres -
sure.
Accelerator pedal input.
Engine temp is too high.
5 mph (8 km/h) threshold has not been
achieved from previous Autostop.
Steering angle is beyond threshold.
ACC is on and speed is set.
It may be possible for the vehicle to be driven
several times without the Stop/Start system going
into a STOP/START READY state under more
extreme conditions of the items listed above.
TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN
A
UTOSTOP MODE
While in a forward gear, the engine will start when
the brake pedal is released or the accelerator
pedal is pressed. The transmission will
automatically re-engage upon engine restart.
Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start
Automatically While In Autostop Mode:
The transmission selector is moved out of
DRIVE.
To maintain cabin temperature comfort.
HVAC is set to full defrost mode.
HVAC system temperature or fan speed is
manually adjusted.

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STARTING AND OPERATING119
The instrument cluster display will return to the last
display selected after five seconds of no ACC
display activity.
Activating Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
The minimum set speed for the ACC system is
20 mph (32 km/h).
When the system is turned on and in the ready
state, the instrument cluster display will read “ACC
Ready.”
When the system is off, the instrument cluster
display will read “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Off.”
NOTE:You cannot engage ACC under the following condi -
tions:
When in 4WD Low
When the brakes are applied
When the parking brake is applied
When the automatic transmission is in PARK,
REVERSE or NEUTRAL
When the vehicle speed is below the minimum
speed range
When the brakes are overheated
When the driver’s door is open at low speeds
When the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled at low
speeds
When there is a stationary vehicle in front of
your vehicle in close proximity
To Activate/Deactivate
Push and release the Adaptive Cruise Control
(ACC) on/off button. The ACC menu in the
instrument cluster displays “ACC Ready.”
To turn the system off, push and release the
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) on/off button again.
At this time, the system will turn off and the
instrument cluster displays “Adaptive Cruise
Control (ACC) Off.”
To Set A Desired Speed
When the vehicle reaches the speed desired, push
the SET (+) button or the SET (-) button and
release. The instrument cluster display will show
the set speed.
NOTE:Fixed Speed Cruise Control can be used without
ACC enabled. To change between the different
modes, push the ACC on/off button which turns
the ACC and the Fixed Speed Cruise Control off.
Pushing the Fixed Speed Cruise Control on/off
button will result in turning on (changing to) Fixed
Speed Cruise Control mode.
If ACC is set when the vehicle speed is below
20 mph (32 km/h), the set speed will default to
20 mph (32 km/h).
NOTE:Fixed Speed Cruise Control cannot be set below
20 mph (32 km/h).
If either system is set when the vehicle speed is
above 20 mph (32 km/h), the set speed shall be
the current speed of the vehicle.
WARNING!
Leaving the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
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 a collision. Always leave the system off
when you are not using it.
WARNING!
In Fixed Speed Cruise Control mode (ACC not
enabled), the system will not react to vehicles
ahead. In addition, the proximity warning does
not activate and no alarm will sound even if you
are too close to the vehicle ahead since neither
the presence of the vehicle ahead nor the
vehicle-to-vehicle distance is detected. Be sure
to maintain a safe distance between your vehicle
and the vehicle ahead. Always be aware which
mode is selected.4

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STARTING AND OPERATING145

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
Select the DRIVE (D) range when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy to
avoid frequent shifting when towing. However, if
frequent shifting does occur while in DRIVE, you
can use the AutoStick shift control to manually
select a lower gear.
If equipped with Tow N Go, it is recommended to
place the vehicle in tow mode by pushing the TOW
button.
NOTE:Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions, will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup. This
action will also provide better engine braking.
AutoStick
When using the AutoStick 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 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
4

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SAFETY209
Do not drive your vehicle after the air bags have
deployed. If you are involved in another collision,
the air bags will not be in place to protect you.
NOTE:
Air bag covers may not be obvious in the interior
trim, but they will open during air bag deploy -
ment.
After any collision, the vehicle should be taken
to an authorized dealer immediately.
Enhanced Accident Response System
In the event of an impact, if the communication
network remains intact, and the power remains
intact, depending on the nature of the event, the
Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) will determine
whether to have the Enhanced Accident Response
System perform the following functions:
Cut off fuel to the engine (if equipped).
Cut off battery power to the electric motor (if
equipped).
Flash hazard lights as long as the battery has
power.
Turn on the interior lights, which remain on as
long as the battery has power or for 15 minutes
from the intervention of the Enhanced Accident
Response System.
Unlock the power door locks.
Your vehicle may also be designed to perform any
of these other functions in response to the
Enhanced Accident Response System:
Turn off the Fuel Filter Heater, Turn off the HVAC
Blower Motor, Close the HVAC Circulation Door
Cut off battery power to the:
Engine
Electric Motor (if equipped)
Electric power steering
Brake booster
Electric park brake
Automatic transmission gear selector
Horn
Front wiper
Headlight washer pump (if equipped)
NOTE:After an accident, remember to cycle the ignition to
the STOP (OFF/LOCK) position and remove the key
from the ignition switch to avoid draining the battery. Carefully check the vehicle for fuel leaks in
the engine compartment and on the ground near
the engine compartment and fuel tank before
resetting the system and starting the engine. If
there are no fuel leaks or damage to the vehicle
electrical devices (e.g. headlights) after an
accident, reset the system by following the
procedure described below. If you have any doubt,
contact an authorized dealer.
Enhanced Accident Response System
Reset Procedure
In order to reset the Enhanced Accident Response
System functions after an event, the ignition switch
must be changed from ignition START or ON/RUN
to ignition OFF. Carefully check the vehicle for fuel
leaks in the engine compartment and on the
ground near the engine compartment and fuel
tank before resetting the system and starting the
engine.
After an accident, if the vehicle will not start after
performing the reset procedure, the vehicle must
be towed to an authorized dealer to be inspected
and to have the Enhanced Accident Response
System reset.
WARNING!
Deployed air bags and seat belt pretensioners
cannot protect you in another collision. Have the
air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and the seat
belt retractor assemblies replaced by an
authorized dealer immediately. Also, have the
Occupant Restraint Controller System serviced
as well.
6

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240IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
NOTE:When using a portable battery booster pack, follow
the manufacturer's operating instructions and
precautions.
PREPARATIONS FOR JUMP START
The battery in your vehicle is located under the
passenger's front seat. There are remote terminals
located under the hood to assist in jump starting.

UnderHood Jump Starting Location

NOTE:Be sure that the disconnected cable ends do not
touch each other, or either vehicle, before properly
connected for jump starting. See the following steps to prepare for jump
starting:

1. Apply the parking brake, shift the automatic
transmission into PARK (P) and turn the
ignition OFF.

2. Turn off the heater, radio, and all electrical accessories.
3. Remove the protective cover over the remote positive (+) battery post. Pull upward on the
cover to remove it.
4. Remove the protective cover over the remote negative (-) battery post.
5. If using another vehicle to jump start the battery, park the vehicle within the jumper
cable’s reach, apply the parking brake and
make sure the ignition is OFF.
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE
Remote Positive (+) Post (Covered With
Protective Cap)
Remote Negative (-) Post (Covered With
Protective Cap)
WARNING!
Do not allow vehicles to touch each other as this
could establish a ground connection and
personal injury could result.
WARNING!
Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan
whenever the hood is raised. It can start
anytime the ignition switch is ON. You can be
injured by moving fan blades.
Remove any metal jewelry such as rings,
watch bands and bracelets that could make
an inadvertent electrical contact. You could be
seriously injured.
Batteries contain sulfuric acid that can burn
your skin or eyes and generate hydrogen gas
which is flammable and explosive. Keep open
flames or sparks away from the battery.
WARNING!
Failure to follow this jump starting procedure
could result in personal injury or property
damage due to battery explosion.
CAUTION!
Failure to follow these procedures could result in
damage to the charging system of the booster
vehicle or the discharged vehicle.

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246IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
This section describes procedures for towing a disabled vehicle using a commercial towing service.
If the transmission and drivetrain are operable, disabled 4x4 vehicles may also be towed as described under Ú page 146.
Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to prevent damage to your vehicle. Use only tow bars and other equipment designed for this purpose, following
equipment manufacturer’s instructions. Use of safety chains is mandatory. Attach a tow bar or other towing device to main structural members of the vehicle,
not to fascia/bumpers or associated brackets. State and local laws regarding vehicles under tow must be observed.
If you must use the accessories (wipers, defrosters, etc.) while being towed, the ignition must be in the ON/RUN mode, not the ACC mode.
If the vehicle's battery is discharged, instructions on shifting the automatic transmission out of PARK (P) in order to move the vehicle can be found on
Ú page 243. Towing Condition Wheels OFF The Ground
Rear-Wheel Drive
Models All-Wheel Drive Models
With Single-Speed
Transfer Case All-Wheel Drive Models With Two-Speed
Transfer Case
Flat Tow NONENOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWEDDetailed Instructions
Ú page 146
Transmission in PARK
Transfer case in NEUTRAL (N)
Tow in forward direction
Wheel Lift Or Dolly Tow Front
NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED
Rear OKNOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED
Flatbed ALLBEST METHOD OKBEST METHOD
NOTE:When towing your vehicle, always follow applicable state and provincial laws. Contact state and provincial Highway Safety offices for additional details.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE269
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against
using any special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an
engineered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore, do
not add any fluid additives to the transmission.
Avoid using transmission sealers as they may
adversely affect seals.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not
require adjustment under normal operating
conditions. Routine fluid level checks are not
required; therefore the transmission has no
dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your
transmission fluid level using special service tools.
If you notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit an authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level
checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper
fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not required.
However, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the
transmission is disassembled for any reason.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid
to ensure optimum transmission performance and
life. Use only the manufacturer's specified
transmission fluid Úpage 307. It is important to
maintain the transmission fluid at the correct level
using the recommended fluid.
NOTE:No chemical flushes should be used in any trans -
mission; only the approved lubricant should be
used.
FRONT/REAR AXLE FLUID
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are
not required. When the vehicle is serviced for other
reasons the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly
should be inspected. If gear oil leakage is
suspected inspect the fluid level.
Front Axle Fluid Level Check
The front axle oil level needs to be no lower than
1/8 inch (3 mm) below the bottom of the fill hole.
The front axle fill and drain plugs should be
tightened to 22 to 29 ft lbs (30 to 40 N·m).
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An authorized
dealer has the proper tools to adjust the fluid
level accurately.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
torque converter shudder Ú page 307.
CAUTION!
Do not overtighten the plugs as it could damage
them and cause them to leak.
8

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS307
ENGINE FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS
CHASSIS FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS
Component Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Engine Coolant We recommend using Mopar® Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile
(240,000 km) Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology) meeting the
requirements of the manufacturer Material Standard MS.90032.
Engine Oil – 3.6L & 5.7L Engine
We recommend using Mopar® SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic Engine Oil which
meets the requirements of the manufacturer Material Standard MS-6395.
Equivalent full synthetic SAE 0W-20 engine oil can be used but must have the
API Starburst trademark Ú
page 256.
Fuel Selection – 3.6L Engine 87 Octane (R+M)/2 Method , 0-15% Ethanol (Do not use E-85).
Fuel Selection – 5.7L Engine 89 Octane Recommended - 87 Octane Acceptable (R+M)/2 Method, 0-15%
Ethanol (Do not use E-85).
Component
Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Automatic Transmission Use only Mopar® ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid or
equivalent. Failure to use the correct fluid may affect the function or
performance of your transmission.
Transfer Case We recommend using Mopar® ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Axle Differential (Front-Rear) – Without Electronic Limited-Slip Differential
(ELSD) We recommend using Mopar® GL-5 Synthetic Axle Lubricant SAE 75W-85.
Axle Differential (Rear) – With Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (ELSD) We recommend using Mopar® GL-5 Synthetic Axle Lubricant SAE 75W-85
with integrated friction modifier.
Brake Master Cylinder We recommend using Mopar® DOT 3 Brake Fluid, SAE J1703.
9

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313
INDEX
A
About Your Brakes......................................... 302Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
(Cruise Control).................................... 115, 117Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)............... 266Adding Fuel.................................................... 135Additives, Fuel............................................... 304AdjustDown........................................................... 34Forward....................................................... 34Rearward..................................................... 34Up................................................................ 34Air BagAir Bag Operation...................................... 201Air Bag Warning Light...................... 199, 201Driver Knee Air Bag................................... 205Enhanced Accident Response......... 209, 248Event Data Recorder (EDR)....................... 248Front Air Bag............................................. 201If Deployment Occurs................................ 208Knee Impact Bolsters................................ 205Maintaining Your Air Bag System.............. 210Maintenance............................................. 210Redundant Air Bag Warning Light.............200Side Air Bags............................................. 206Transporting Pets...................................... 225
Air Bag Light.................................. 88, 199, 226
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter)... 257
Air Conditioner Maintenance........................ 258Air Conditioner Refrigerant.................. 258, 259Air Conditioner System................................. 258Air ConditioningRear............................................................. 58Air Conditioning Filter.................... 60, 257, 259Air Conditioning System................................... 59Air Conditioning, Operating Tips....................... 60Air Filter........................................................ 257Air PressureTires......................................................... 289AlarmArm The System................................... 20, 21Disarm The System..................................... 20Rearm The System...................................... 21Security Alarm............................................. 91Alarm SystemSecurity Alarm............................................. 20All Wheel Drive (AWD)................................... 108Alterations/ModificationsVehicle........................................................... 9Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)................. 266, 306Disposal................................................... 267Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)...................... 177
Anti-Lock Warning Light...................................91Assist, Hill Start............................................. 181Audio Systems (Radio).................................. 153Auto Down Power Windows..............................69Automatic Headlights.......................................47Automatic High Beams.....................................47Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)..............59Automatic Transmission......................... 98, 104Adding Fluid.............................................. 269Fluid And Filter Change............................. 269Fluid Change............................................. 269Fluid Level Check...................................... 269Fluid Type........................................ 269, 307Special Additives...................................... 269Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode... 107Auxiliary Driving Systems.............................. 183Auxiliary Electrical Outlet (Power Outlet)..........65Auxiliary Power Outlet......................................65Axle Fluid....................................................... 307
B
Battery................................................... 89, 255Charging System Light.................................89Keyless Key Fob Replacement....................14Battery Saver Feature......................................49Belts, Seat.................................................... 226
11

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