tow JEEP COMPASS 2023 Owner's Guide

138STARTING AND OPERATING
SIDE DISTANCE WARNING (SDW)
S
YSTEM
The Side Distance Warning system has the
function of detecting the presence of side
obstacles near the vehicle using the parking
sensors located in the front and rear bumpers.
Side Distance Warning Display
The Side Distance Warning screen will only be
displayed if this feature is enabled within Uconnect
Settings Ú page 165.
The system warns the driver with an acoustic
signal and when selected, with visual indications
on the instrument panel display Ú page 77.
NOTE:ParkSense will reduce the volume of the radio if on
when the system is sounding an audible tone.
Activation/Deactivation
The system can operate only after driving a short
distance and if the vehicle speed is between 0 and
7 mph (0 and 11 km/h). The system can be
activated/deactivated via the "Settings" menu of
the Uconnect system. If the ParkSense System is
deactivated via the ParkSense switch, then the
side distance warning system will automatically be
deactivated.

Side Distance Warning System Status

Before using ParkSense, it is strongly recom -
mended 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 vehi -
cles or obstacles because the hitch ball will be
much closer to the obstacle than the rear
fascia when the vehicle sounds the continuous
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 recom -
mended that the driver looks over his/her
shoulder when using ParkSense.
WARNING!
WARNING ALERTS
Distance
(in/cm) Less than
30 inches
(76 cm)30 –
65 inches
(76–165 cm)
Arcs-Left 11th Flashing 12th Flashing
Arcs-Right 11th Flashing 12th Flashing
Audible Alert
Chime Audible alert only when the
vehicle is on course for a
collision
Radio Volume
Reduced Yes
Yes
1 — System Not Active
2 — System Active

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 138

STARTING AND OPERATING139
NOTE:The vehicle needs to be driven approximately one
car length in order for the Side Distance Warning
system to activate.
Operation With A Trailer
The system is automatically deactivated when the
trailer's electric plug is inserted in the vehicle's tow
hook socket. The rear sensors are automatically
reactivated when the trailer's cable plug is
removed.
ParkSense Usage Precautions
Some conditions may influence the performance
of the Side Distance Warning system:
NOTE:
Ensure that the front and rear bumper are free
of snow, ice, mud, dirt and debris to keep the
ParkSense system operating properly.
Construction equipment, large trucks, and
other vibrations could affect the performance
of ParkSense.
When you turn ParkSense off, the message
in the instrument cluster display will read
“PARKSENSE OFF.” Furthermore, once you turn
ParkSense off, it remains off until you turn it on
again, even if you cycle the ignition key.
ParkSense, when on, will reduce the volume of
the radio when it is sounding a tone.
Clean the ParkSense sensors regularly, taking
care not to scratch or damage them. The
sensors must not be covered with ice, snow,
slush, mud, dirt or debris. Failure to do so can
result in the system not working properly. The
ParkSense system might not detect an obstacle
behind or in front of the fascia/bumper, or it
could provide a false indication that an obstacle
is behind or in front of the fascia/bumper.
The presence of a tow hook without a trailer may
interfere with the correct operation of the
parking sensors. Before using the ParkSense
system, it is recommended to remove the
removable tow hook ball assembly and any
attachments from the vehicle when it is not
used for towing operations. If you leave the tow
hook fitted when not towing a trailer, the tow
hook could be detected as an obstacle by the
sensors. Contact your authorized dealer to
update the ParkSense system operations.
WARNING!
Drivers must be careful when backing up even
when using ParkSense. Always check carefully
behind your vehicle, look behind you, and be
sure to check for pedestrians, animals, other
vehicles, obstructions, and blind spots before
backing up. You are responsible for safety and
must continue to pay attention to your
surroundings. Failure to do so can result in
serious injury or death.

Before using ParkSense, it is strongly recom -
mended 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 vehi -
cles or obstacles because the hitch ball will be
much closer to the obstacle than the rear
fascia when the vehicle sounds the continuous
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.

4

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 139

STARTING AND OPERATING143
(Continued)
(Continued)
NOTE:
It is the driver's responsibility to use the brake
and accelerator during the semi-automatic
parking maneuver.
It is the driver's responsibility to use the brake
and stop the vehicle. The driver should check
their surroundings and be prepared to stop the
vehicle either when instructed to, or when driver
intervention is required.
When the system instructs the driver to remove
their hands from the steering wheel, the driver
should check their surroundings and begin to
back up slowly.
The ParkSense Active Park Assist system will
allow a maximum of six shifts between DRIVE
and REVERSE. If the maneuver cannot be
completed within six shifts, the system will
cancel and the instrument cluster display will
instruct the driver to complete the maneuver
manually.
The system will cancel the maneuver if the
vehicle speed exceeds 5 mph (7 km/h) during
active steering guidance into the parking space.
The system will provide a warning to the driver
at 3 mph (5 km/h) that tells them to slow down.
The driver is then responsible for completing the
maneuver if the system is canceled.
If the system is canceled during the maneuver
for any reason, the driver must take control of
the vehicle.
WARNING!
Drivers must be careful when performing
parallel or perpendicular parking maneuvers
even when using the ParkSense Active Park
Assist system. Always check carefully behind
and in front of your vehicle, look behind and in
front of you, and be sure to check for pedes
-
trians, animals, other vehicles, obstructions,
and blind spots before backing up and moving
forward. You are responsible for safety and
must continue to pay attention to your
surroundings. Failure to do so can result in
serious injury or death.
Before using the ParkSense Active Park Assist
system, it is strongly recommended that the
ball mount and hitch ball assembly be discon -
nected 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 continuous 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!
The ParkSense Active Park Assist system 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.
WARNING!
4

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 143

STARTING AND OPERATING145
The sensors may not detect objects of a partic -
ular shape or made from particular materials
(very thin poles, trailer beams, panels, nets,
bushes, anti-parking posts, pavements, rubbish
bins, motor vehicles, etc.). Always take great
care to check that the vehicle and its path are
actually compatible with the parking place iden -
tified by the system.
The use of wheels and tires that are different
size to the original equipment could affect the
operation of the system.
The operation of the rear sensors is automati -
cally deactivated when the trailer's electric plug
is inserted in the vehicle's tow hook socket,
while the front sensors stay active and can
provide acoustic and visual warnings. If this situ -
ation occurs, Active Park Assist will not work.
The rear sensors are automatically reactivated
when the trailer's cable plug is removed.
In "Search in Progress" mode, the system could
incorrectly identify a parking place to carry out
the maneuver (e.g. by a junction, driveways,
roads crossing the direction of travel, etc.).
In the case of parking maneuvers on roads with
inclines, the performance of the system could
be inferior and it may deactivate.
If a parking maneuver is being carried out
between two parked vehicles alongside a curb,
the system may cause the vehicle to drive up
onto the curb.
Some maneuvers at very tight bends might be
impossible to be carried out.
Take great care to ensure that conditions do not
change during the parking maneuver (e.g. if
there are persons and/or animals in the parking
place, moving vehicles, etc.) and intervene
immediately if necessary.

During parking maneuvers, pay attention to vehi -
cles approaching from the opposite direction.
Always abide by the law and road regulations.

NOTE:
Correct system operation is not guaranteed if
snow chains or the compact spare tire are fitted.
The function only informs the driver about the
last appropriate parking place (parallel or
perpendicular) detected by the parking sensors.
Some messages displayed are accompanied by
acoustic warnings.
ACTIVE LANE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM —
IF EQUIPPED
ACTIVE LANE MANAGEMENT OPERATION
The Active Lane Management (ALM) system uses a
forward facing camera to detect lane markings or
road edges and measure vehicle position within
the lane boundaries. It also uses the Blind Spot Monitoring sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent
lanes while the driver is preparing to change lanes.
The system is operational at speeds above 37 mph
(60 km/h) and below 112 mph (180 km/h).
When both lane markings are detected, and the
vehicle drifts out of the lane (no turn signal
applied), the Active Lane Management system
provides a visual warning in the instrument cluster,
as well as a steering assist torque (if configured in
Uconnect Settings), to prompt the driver to remain
within the lane boundaries. If the driver continues
to drift out of the lane, the system provides a
flashing visual warning through the instrument
cluster display as well as a haptic steering wheel
vibration (if configured in Uconnect Settings) when
the vehicle crosses the lane boundary.
The warning will be in the form of a vibration in the
steering wheel, and/or automatic steering
assistance to direct the vehicle back toward the
center of the lane.
When both lane markings are detected, and the
driver uses the turn signal to indicate a lane
change while the system detects another vehicle in
the Blind Spot Monitoring zone on that side of the
vehicle, the Active Lane Management system
provides a warning in the form of steering assist
and/or steering vibration (depending on radio
settings) to guide the vehicle back to the center of
the lane.
4

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 145

154STARTING AND OPERATING
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)
The 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 Ú page 153.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The 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.
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 Ú
page 153.
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.
CAUTION!
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.
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.

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 154

STARTING AND OPERATING155
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
The TSC can be a mechanical telescoping link that
can be installed between the hitch receiver and the
trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable
friction associated with the telescoping motion to
dampen any unwanted trailer swaying motions
while traveling.
If equipped, the electronic TSC recognizes a
swaying trailer and automatically applies individual
wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power to
attempt to eliminate the trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue
weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch
ball or some other connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of hitches are commonly used to tow
small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A Weight-Distributing system works by applying
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are
typically used for heavier loads to distribute trailer
tongue weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and
the trailer axle(s). When used in accordance with
the manufacturer's directions, it provides for a
more level ride, offering more consistent steering
and brake control thereby enhancing towing
safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic sway
control also dampens sway caused by traffic and
crosswinds and contributes positively to tow
vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer sway control and
a Weight-Distributing (load equalizing) Hitch are recommended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW)
and may be required depending on vehicle and
trailer configuration/loading to comply with Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.
TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight-Distributing
Hitch system may reduce handling, stability,
braking performance, and could result in a
collision.
Weight-Distributing systems may not be
compatible with surge brake couplers. Consult
with your hitch and trailer manufacturer or a
reputable Recreational Vehicle dealer for
additional information.
Engine/Transmission
ModelMaximum GTW Maximum Trailer TW
2.4L / 6 Speed Auto FWDTrailer towing is not recommended.
2.4L / 9 Speed Auto FWD or 4WD2,000 lb (907 kg) 200 lb (90 kg)
When towing a trailer, the technically permissible laden weight may be exceeded by not more than 10% or 220 lb (100 kg), whichever is lower provided that the operating speed is restricted to 62 mph (100 km/h) or less.
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds and loads.
Towing limits quoted represent the maximum towing ability of the vehicle at its Gross Combined Mass to restart on a 12 percent gradient at sea level. The performance and economy of all models will be reduced when used for towing.
4

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 155

156STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight
stamped on your trailer hitch.
Weight Distribution

Consider the following items when computing the
weight on the front/rear axles of the vehicle:
The trailer tongue weight of the trailer.
The weight of any other type of cargo or equip -
ment put in or on your vehicle.
The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:Remember that everything put into or on the trailer
adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional
factory-installed options, or authorized
dealer-installed options, must be considered as
part of the total load on your vehicle. Refer to the
tire loading information placard located on the
driver’s door pillar for the maximum combined
weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle.
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 and the proper maintenance intervals
Ú
page 267. 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
overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading
can cause a loss of control, poor performance
or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transmis -
sion, steering, suspension, chassis structure
or tires.
Safety chains must always be used between
your vehicle and trailer. Always connect the
chains to the hook retainers of the vehicle
hitch. Cross the chains under the trailer
tongue and allow enough slack for turning
corners.

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 156

STARTING AND OPERATING157
Towing Requirements — Tires
Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a
compact spare tire.
Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when
towing while using a full size spare tire.
Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to
the safe and satisfactory operation of your
vehicle.
Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation
pressures before trailer usage.
Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire
damage before towing a trailer.
Replacing tires with a higher load carrying
capacity will not increase the vehicle's GVWR
and GAWR limits.
For further information Úpage 298.
Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system
or vacuum system of your vehicle with that of
the trailer. This could cause inadequate braking
and possible personal injury.
An electronically actuated trailer brake
controller is required when towing a trailer with
electronically actuated brakes. When towing a
trailer equipped with a hydraulic surge actuated
brake system, an electronic brake controller is
not required.
Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers
over 1,000 lb (453 kg) and required for trailers
in excess of 2,000 lb (907 kg).
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

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 157

158STARTING AND OPERATING
Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And
Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer
size, stoplights and turn signals on the trailer are
required for motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four- and
seven-pin wiring harness. Use a factory approved
trailer harness and connector.
NOTE:Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring
harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to the
vehicle but you must mate the harness to a trailer
connector. Refer to the following illustrations.
NOTE:
Disconnect trailer wiring connector from the
vehicle before launching a boat (or any other
device plugged into vehicle’s electrical connect)
into water.
Be sure to reconnect once clear from water
area.
Four-Pin Connector

WARNING!
Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's
hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your
brake system and cause it to fail. You might
not have brakes when you need them and
could have an accident.
Towing any trailer will increase your stopping
distance. When towing, you should allow for
additional space between your vehicle and the
vehicle in front of you. Failure to do so could
result in an accident.
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lb (453 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they
should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do
this could lead to accelerated brake lining wear,
higher brake pedal effort, and longer stopping
distances.
1 — Ground
2 — Park
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Right Stop/Turn

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 158

STARTING AND OPERATING159

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. For increased
engine braking on steep downhill grades, select
the LOW range.
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

22_MP_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 159