towing DODGE NITRO 2011 1.G User Guide

INTRODUCTION/WELCOME
Welcome From Chrysler Group LLC....2
CONTROLS AT A GLANCE
Driver Cockpit...............4
Instrument Cluster .............6
GETTING STARTED
KeyFOB ..................8
Remote Start................8
Theft Alarm .................9
Seat Belt ..................9
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) —
Airbags ..................10
Child Restraints .............11
Front Seats ................13
Rear Seats ................14
Heated Seats ...............15
Tilt Steering Column ...........16
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLETurn Signal/Lights Lever .........17
Wiper/Washer Lever ...........18
Speed Control Lever ...........19
Manual Climate Controls .........20
Automatic Temperature Controls
(ATC) ...................20
Parksense
®Rear Park Assist .......21
Power Sunroof ..............21
Wind Buffeting ..............23
ELECTRONICSYour Vehicle's Sound System ......24
Non-Touch-Screen Radios ........26
Touch-Screen Radios ...........29
Steering Wheel Audio Controls ......36
Uconnect™ Phone ............36
Uconnect™ Voice Command .......38
Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC) ...................39
Programmable Features .........40
Universal Garage Door Opener
(HomeLink
®) ...............42
Power Outlet ...............44
OFF-ROAD CAPABILITIESFour-Wheel Drive Operation .......45
UTILITYCargo Area Features...........46
Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer
Weight Ratings) ..............47
Recreational Towing (Behind
Motorhome, Etc.) .............48
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES24-Hour Towing Assistance .......49
Instrument Cluster Warning Lights . . . 49
If Your Engine Overheats .........52
Jacking And Tire Changing ........53
Jump-Starting ..............56
Shift Lever Override ...........58
Towing A Disabled Vehicle ........59
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle .........60
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .......61
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLEOpening The Hood............62
Engine Compartment ...........63
Fluids And Capacities ..........65
Maintenance Chart ............66
Fuses ...................69
Tire Pressures ...............73
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care .......73
Exterior Bulbs ..............74
CONSUMER ASSISTANCEChrysler Group LLC Customer Center . . 75
Chrysler Canada Inc. Customer
Center...................75
Assistance For The Hearing Impaired . . 75
Publications Ordering ..........75
Reporting Safety Defects In The
50 United States And
Washington, D.C. .............76
MOPAR ACCESSORIESAuthentic Accessories By MOPAR®...77
INDEX..................78
TABLE OF CONTENTS

TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)
Engine/Transmission ModelFrontal AreaMax GTW (Gross Trailer Wt) Tongue Wt. (See Note)
3.7L/Automatic 4x2 32 sq ft (2.97 sq m) 2,000 lbs (907 kg) 200 lbs (91 kg)
3.7L/Automatic 4x4 32 sq ft (2.97 sq m) 2,000 lbs (907 kg) 200 lbs (91 kg)
4.0L/Automatic 4x2 32 sq ft (2.97 sq m) 2,000 lbs (907 kg) 200 lbs (91 kg)
4.0L/Automatic 4x4 32 sq ft (2.97 sq m) 2,000 lbs (907 kg) 200 lbs (91 kg)
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.
NOTE: The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and should never exceed the
weight referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
When Towing Trailers With Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) Between 3,500 Lbs (1 588 kg) And 5,000 Lbs (2 268 kg)The following chart provides maximum trailer weight ratings towable for the following engine/transmission combinations, ONLY if using a
weight distributing hitch.
Engine/Transmission Model Frontal AreaMax GTW (Gross Trailer Wt) Tongue Wt. (See Note)
3.7L/Automatic
w/Trailer Tow Package 4x2 64 sq ft (5.94 sq m) 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)
500 lbs (227 kg)
3.7L/Automatic
w/Trailer Tow Package 4x4 64 sq ft (5.94 sq m) 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)
500 lbs (227 kg)
4.0L/Automatic
w/Trailer Tow Package 4x2 64 sq ft (5.94 sq m) 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)
500 lbs (227 kg)
4.0L/Automatic
w/Trailer Tow Package 4x4 64 sq ft (5.94 sq m) 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)
500 lbs (227 kg)
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.
NOTE: The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and should never exceed the
weight referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
UTILITY
47

RECREATIONAL
TOWING (BEHIND
MOTORHOME, ETC.)
Recreational Towing — Two-Wheel Drive
Models
• Recreational towing is allowed if therear wheels are OFFthe ground. This
may be accomplished using a tow
dolly or vehicle trailer. If using a tow
dolly, follow this procedure:
• Properly secure the dolly to the tow vehicle, following the dolly
manufacturer's instructions.
• Drive the rear wheels onto the tow dolly, firmly set the parking brake
and place the transmission in PARK.
• Turn the ignition switch to the unlocked OFF position.
• Install a suitable clamping device, designed for towing, to secure the
front wheels in the straight position.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable and secure it away from the
battery post.
• Flat towing (with all four wheels on the
ground) is allowed ONLY if the
driveshaft is removed. Towing with the
rear wheels on the ground while the
driveshaft is connected will result in
severe transmission damage.
• The parking brake mustbe firmly
engaged and the wheels chocked
during driveshaft removal and
installation. The parking brake must
remain engaged unless the vehicle is
securely and properly connected to
the tow vehicle, or the driveshaft is
completely reinstalled. See your
authorized dealer for proper
driveshaft removal and reinstallation
procedures, including flange
orientation/alignment, use of
thread-locking compound, proper
bolt torque specifications, etc.
Towing — Four-Wheel Drive Or All-Wheel
Drive Models
Recreational Towing (All Four Wheels On
The Ground)
• Recreational towing is NOT allowed. These models do not have a
NEUTRAL position in the transfer
case.
NOTE: This vehicle may be towed on a
flatbed or vehicle trailer provided all four
wheels are OFF the ground.
• Refer to your Owner's Manual on theDVD for further details.
CAUTION!
Front or rear wheel lifts should not
be used. Internal damage to the
transmission or transfer case will
occur if a front or rear wheel lift is
used when recreational towing.
WARNING!
If the driveshaft is removed, the
vehicle can roll even if the
transmission is in PARK, which
could cause serious injury or death.
UTILITY
48

24-HOUR TOWING ASSISTANCE
• Dial toll-free 1-800-521-2779 or 1-800-363-4869 for Canadian residents.
• Provide your name, vehicle identification number and license plate number.
• Provide your location, including telephone number, from which you are calling.
• Briefly describe the nature of the problem and answer a few simple questions.
• You will be given the name of the service provider and an estimated time of arrival.If you feel you are in an “unsafe situation”, please let us know. With your consent,
we will contact local police or safety authorities.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WARNING LIGHTS
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Indicator Light
• If this indicator light flashes during acceleration, apply as little throttle aspossible. While driving, ease up on the accelerator. Adapt your speed and driving
to the prevailing road conditions. To improve the vehicle's traction when starting
off in deep snow, sand or gravel, it may be desirable to switch the ESC system off.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
• Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly, when coldand 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 Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or
more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire
pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as
possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly
under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the
vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
• IF THE LIGHT STARTS FLASHING INDICATING A LOW TIRE PRESSURE, ADJUST THE AIR
PRESSURE IN THE LOW TIRE TO THE AIR PRESSURE SHOWN ON THE VEHICLE PLACARD
OR TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE LABEL LOCATED ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR. NOTE: AFTER
INFLATION, THE VEHICLE MAY NEED TO BE DRIVEN FOR 20 MINUTES BEFORE THE
FLASHING LIGHT WILL TURN OFF.
• 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 under-inflation
has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure
telltale.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
49

WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is dangerous. Part of the brake
system may have failed. It will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have a
collision. Have the vehicle checked immediately.
- Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
• Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor fuel quality, etc., mayilluminate the MIL after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light
stays on through several typical driving cycles. In most situations, the vehicle will
drive normally and not require towing.
• If the MIL flashes when the engine is running, serious conditions may exist that could lead to immediate loss of power or severe catalytic converter damage. We
recommend you do not operate the vehicle. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
- Electronic Stability Control OFF Warning Light
• If the ESC OFF warning light comes on continuously with the engine running, amalfunction has been detected.
• If this 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), we
recommend you drive to the nearest service center and have the vehicle serviced
immediately.
- Charging System Light
• This light shows the status of the electrical charging system. If the chargingsystem light remains on, it means that the vehicle is experiencing a problem with
the charging system.
• We recommend you do not continue driving if the charging system light is on. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
- Oil Pressure Warning Light
• This light indicates low engine oil pressure. If the light turns on while driving, stopthe vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible. A chime will sound for four
minutes when this light turns on.
• We recommend you do not operate the vehicle or engine damage will occur. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
- Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Light
• This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).
• If the light is not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, werecommend you drive to the nearest service center and have the vehicle serviced
immediately.
- Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
• This light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)system.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
51

• If a problem is detected, the light will come on while the engine is running. Cyclethe ignition when the vehicle has completely stopped and the shift lever is placed
in the PARK position; the light should turn off.
• If the light remains lit with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be drivable; however, see an authorized service center immediately. If the light is
flashing when the engine is running, immediate service is required and you may
experience reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your
vehicle may require towing.
- Airbag Warning Light
• If the light is not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, have thevehicle serviced by an authorized service center immediately.
- SERV (Service) 4WD Indicator Light
• If the light stays on or comes on during driving, it means that the 4WD system isnot functioning properly and that service is required. We recommend you drive to
the nearest service center and have the vehicle serviced immediately.
- Transmission Temperature Warning Light
• This light indicates that there is excessive transmission fluid temperature thatmight occur with severe usage such as trailer towing. If this light turns on, stop the
vehicle and run the engine at idle, with the transmission in NEUTRAL, until the
light turns off. Once the light turns off, you may continue to drive normally.
Fuel Cap/Loose Gas Cap Message
• If a “gas cap” message (shown as gASCAP) appears, tighten the gas cap until a“clicking” sound is heard.
• Press the odometer reset button to turn the message off.
• If the message continues to appear for more than three days after tightening the gas cap, see your authorized service center.
Oil Change Indicator
Message
• If an “oil change” message (shown as CHAngE OIL) appears and a single chime sounds, it is time for your next required oil change.
Resetting The Light After Servicing
• Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position (do not start engine).
• Fully depress the accelerator pedal three times within 10 seconds.
• Turn the ignition switch to the OFF/LOCK position.
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
• In any of the following situations, you can reduce the potential for overheating by taking the appropriate action.
• On the highways — slow down.
• In city traffic — while stopped, shift transmission into NEUTRAL, but do not
increase engine idle speed.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
52

TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLEModelFlat Towing (all four
wheels on the ground)Flatbed Towing (all four
wheels suspended OFF the
ground)Front Wheels Raised, Rear
Wheels on the Ground
Rear Wheels Raised, Front
Wheels on the Ground
Two-Wheel Drive NOT Permitted
Recommended Method Shift lever must be in
NEUTRAL, the speed
less then 30 mph
(48 km/h) and the
distance traveled less
than 15 mi (24 km).Shift lever must be in
NEUTRAL, the speed
less then 30 mph
(48 km/h) and the
distance traveled less
than 15 mi (24 km).
Four-Wheel Drive NOT Permitted
Recommended Method NOT Permitted NOT Permitted
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
59

MAINTENANCE CHART
Miles:
8,000 16,000 24,000 32,000 40,000 48,000 56,000 64,000 72,000 80,000 88,000 96,000 104,000
Or Months: 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72 78
Or Kilometers:
13,000 26,000 39,000 52,000 65,000 78,000 91,000 104,000 117,000 130,000 143,000 156,000 169,000
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter. XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Rotate the tires, rotate at the first sign of irregular
wear, even if it occurs before scheduled mainte-
nance. XXXXXXXXXXXXX
If using your vehicle for any of the following: dusty or
off-road conditions. Inspect the engine air cleaner
filter; replace if necessary. XXX
Inspect the brake linings; replace if necessary. X X XXXX
Inspect the CV joints. XXXX
Inspect the exhaust system. X XXXX
Replace the engine air cleaner filter. X X X
Inspect the front and rear axle fluid, change if using
your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent
trailer towing. XXXX
Inspect the transfer case fluid. X X
Change the transfer case fluid if using your vehicle
for the following: police, taxi, fleet or frequent trailer
towing. X
Adjust the parking brake on vehicles equipped with
four wheel disc brakes. XX
Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter if
using your vehicle for any of the following: police,
taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing. X
Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and boot seals
for cracks or leaks and all parts for damage, wear,
improper looseness or end play; replace if necessary. XXXXXX
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
66

Instrument Cluster Warning
Lights ................. 6,49
Integrated Power Module (Fuses) . . . 70
Intermittent Wipers (Delay Wipers) . . 18
Introduction............... 2
Jack Location .............. 53
Jump Starting .............. 56
KeyFob .................. 8
Key Fob Programmable Features . . . 40
Lane Change Assist .......... 18
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for
CHildren) ................ 11
Lights Four-Wheel Drive Indicator ..... 52
Headlights .............. 17
Park .................. 17
Transmission Warning ........ 52
TurnSignal .............. 18
Warning (Instrument Cluster
Description) .............. 6
Maintenance Record .......... 68
MaintenanceSchedule ........ 66
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check
Engine) ................. 51
MOPAR
®Accessories ......... 77
Navigation .............. 32,34
OilChangeIndicator .......... 52
Oil Change Indicator, Reset ...... 52
Oil Pressure Light ........... 51
Oil, Engine Capacity ............... 65
Overheating, Engine .......... 52
Panic Alarm ............... 8
Park Sense System, Rear ....... 21
Phone (Pairing) ............. 36
Phone (Uconnect) ........... 36
Power Glass Sunroof ............ 21
Outlet (Auxiliary Electrical
Outlet) ................ 44 Seats
................. 13
Steering ................ 65
Preparation for Jacking ........ 54
Programmable Electronic Features . . 40
Radio Operation .......... 26,29
Rain Sensitive Wiper System ..... 18
Rear Park Sense System ........ 21
Rear Seat, Folding ........... 14
Recreational Towing .......... 48
Remote Starting System ........ 8
ReplacementBulbs .......... 74
Restraints, Child ............ 11
RollOverWarning ............ 3
Seat Belts ................. 9
Seats ................... 13
Adjustment .............. 13
Folding Front Passenger ...... 13
Heated ................ 15
Power ................. 13
RearFolding ............. 14
Setting the Clock .......... 28,31
Shift Lever Override .......... 58
Signals, Turn .............. 18
SIRIUS Travel Link ........... 35
SpareTire ................ 53
SparkPlugs ............... 65
Speed Control (Cruise Control) .... 19
Starting Remote ................. 8
Steering TiltColumn .............. 16
Steering Wheel Audio Controls .... 36
Store Radio Presets ........ 28,31
Stuck, Freeing ............. 60
SunRoof ................ 21
Supplemental Restraint System -
Airbag .................. 10
Temperature Control, Automatic
(ATC) ................... 20
Theft Alarm (Security Alarm) ...... 9
Theft System Arming .......... 9
Theft System Disarming ......... 9
Tilt Steering Column .......... 16
Tires Air Pressure ............. 73
INDEX
79

Changing ............... 54
FlatChanging ............ 54
Jacking ................ 54
PressureWarningLight ....... 49
Towing .................. 47 24-Hour Towing Assistance ..... 49
Disabled Vehicle ........... 59
Recreational ............. 48
Towing Vehicle Behind a
Motorhome ............... 48
Trailer Towing Trailer and Tongue Weight ..... 47
Trailer Weight .............. 47
Transfer Case Fluid ................. 65
Transmission Fluid ................. 65 TurnSignals ............... 18
Uconnect™Phone ........... 36
USBPort ................ 32
Voice Command
............ 38
WarningLights ............. 49
Washer,Rear .............. 18
Washers, Windshield .......... 18
Wheel and Wheel Trim Care ...... 73
Wind Buffeting ............. 23
Windows, Express Down ......... 8
Windshield Washers .......... 18
Windshield Wipers ........... 18
Wiper,Rear ............... 18
INDEX
80