towing JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2016 WK2 / 4.G Owner's Manual

5. Properly secure the rear wheels to the dolly, following the dolly manufacturer’sinstructions.
6. Install a suitable clamping device, designed for towing, to secure the front wheels in the straight position.
CAUTION!
Towing with the rear wheels on the ground will cause severe transmission damage.
Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
Four-Wheel Drive Models Without 4WD LOW Range
Recreational towing is not allowed. These models do not have a NEUTRAL (N)
position in the transfer case.
Four-Wheel Drive Models With 4WD LOW Range
The transfer case must be shifted into NEUTRAL (N) and the transmission must be
in PARK for recreational towing. The NEUTRAL (N) selection button is adjacent to
the transfer case selector switch. Shifts into and out of transfer case NEUTRAL (N)
can take place with the selector switch in any mode position.
CAUTION!
• DO NOT dolly tow any 4WD vehicle. Internal damage to the transmission or transfer case will occur if a dolly is used when recreational towing.
• Tow only in a forward direction. Towing this vehicle backwards can cause severe
damage to the transfer case.
• The transmission must be in PARK for recreational towing.
• Before recreational towing, perform the procedure outlined under “Shifting
into NEUTRAL (N)” to be certain that the transfer case is fully in NEUTRAL
(N). Otherwise, internal damage will result.
• Failure to follow these procedures can cause severe transmission and/or
transfer case damage. Damage from improper towing is not covered under the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
• Do not use a bumper-mounted clamp-on tow bar on your vehicle. The bumper
face bar will be damaged.
UTILITY
168

Shifting Into NEUTRAL (N)
WARNING!
You or others could be injured or killed if you leave the vehicle unattended with the
transfer case in the NEUTRAL (N) position without first fully engaging the parking
brake. The transfer case NEUTRAL (N) position disengages both the front and rear
driveshafts from the powertrain and will allow the vehicle to move, even if the
transmission is in PARK. The parking brake should always be applied when the
driver is not in the vehicle.
CAUTION!
It is necessary to follow these steps to be certain that the transfer case is fully in
NEUTRAL (N) before recreational towing to prevent damage to internal parts.
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for recreational towing:
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, with the engine running.
2. Press and hold the brake pedal.
3. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
4. If vehicle is equipped with Quadra-Lift air suspension, ensure the vehicle is set to Normal Ride Height.
5. Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, press and hold the recessed transfer case NEUTRAL (N) button (located by the selector switch) for four seconds. The light
behind the N symbol will blink, indicating shift in progress. The light will stop
blinking (stay on solid) when the shift to NEUTRAL (N) is complete. A “FOUR
WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM IN NEUTRAL” message will display on the Driver
Information Display (DID).
6. After the shift is completed and the NEUTRAL (N) light stays on, release the NEUTRAL (N) button.
7. Shift the transmission into REVERSE.
8. Release the brake pedal for five seconds and ensure that there is no vehicle movement.
9. Press and hold the brake pedal. Shift the transmission back into NEUTRAL
10. Firmly apply the parking brake.
11. With the transmission and transfer case in NEUTRAL, push and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button until the engine turns off.
12. Move the transmission gear selector to PARK. Release the brake pedal.
UTILITY
169

SELEC-TRACK
Selec-Track combines the capabilities of
the vehicle control systems, along with
driver input, to provide the best perfor-
mance for all terrains.
Rotate the mode control knob to select
the following Selec-Track positions:
•Sport - Dry weather, on-road calibra-
tion. Performance based tuning that
provides a rear wheel drive feel but with improved handling and acceleration over
a two-wheel drive vehicle. The active suspension system will be in a semi firm
mode, and a green flag will light up in the instrument cluster.
• Snow - Tuning set for additional stability in inclement weather. Use on and off road
on loose traction surfaces such as snow.
• Auto - Fully automatic full time four-wheel drive operation can be used on and off
road. This position balances traction with seamless steering feel to provide
improved handling and acceleration over two-wheel drive vehicles.
• Track - This position offers track road calibration for use on high traction surfaces.
Driveline is maximized for traction. Some binding may be felt on less forgiving
surfaces.
• To w - Use this mode for towing. Vehicle suspension will go to Firm mode.
Active Damping System
This vehicle is equipped with an electronic controlled damping system. This system
reduces body roll and pitch in many driving situations including cornering, accelera-
tion and braking. There are 3 modes:
•Street Mode (Available in terrain positions AUTO, SNOW and CUSTOM.) — Used
during highway speeds where a touring suspension feel is desired.
• Sport Mode (Available in terrain positions AUTO, SPORT, CUSTOM and TOW.) —
Provides a firm suspension for better handling.
• Track Firm (Available in terrain positions AUTO, TRACK and CUSTOM.) —
Provides a full firm suspension for an aggressive track experience.
Selec-Track switch
SRT
173

DIESEL ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS
The diesel engine does not require a break-in period due to its construction. Normal
operation is allowed, providing the following recommendations are followed:
• Warm up the engine before placing it under load.
• Do not operate the engine at idle for prolonged periods.
• Use the appropriate transmission gear to prevent engine lugging.
• Observe vehicle oil pressure and temperature indicators.
• Check the coolant and oil levels frequently.
• Vary throttle position at highway speeds when carrying or towing significantweight.
NOTE:
Light duty operation such as light trailer towing or no load operation will extend the
time before the engine is at full efficiency. Reduced fuel economy and power may be
seen at this time.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a high-quality energy
conserving type lubricant. Oil changes should be consistent with anticipated climate
conditions under which vehicle operations will occur. NON-DETERGENT OR
STRAIGHT MINERAL OILS MUST NEVER BE USED.
DIESEL ENGINE STARTING PROCEDURES
Normal Starting Procedure
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Ensure the gear selector is in the PARK position.
3. Press and hold the brake pedal while pushing the ENGINE START/STOP button once and the system will engage the starter to crank the engine.
NOTE: • A delay of the start of up to five seconds is possible under very cold conditions.The “Wait to Start” telltale will be illuminated during the pre-heat process,
When the engine Wait To Start light goes off the engine will automatically crank.
• If you wish to stop the cranking of the engine prior to the engine starting, push the button again.
4. Check that the oil pressure warning light has turned off.
5. Release the parking brake.
DIESEL
180

– Transmission Temperature Warning Light
This light indicates that there is excessive transmission fluid temperature that might
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.
CAUTION!
Continuous driving with the Transmission Temperature Warning Light illuminated
will eventually cause severe transmission damage or transmission failure.
WARNING!
If you continue operating the vehicle when the Transmission Temperature Warning
Light is illuminated you could cause the fluid to boil over, come in contact with hot
engine or exhaust components and cause a fire.
– Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Light
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). The light will turn on when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON/RUN position and may stay on for as long as four
seconds.
If the ABS light remains on or turns on while driving, it indicates that the Anti-Lock
portion of the brake system is not functioning and that service is required. However,
the conventional brake system will continue to operate normally if the BRAKE
warning light is not on.
If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be serviced as soon as possible to
restore the benefits of Anti-Lock brakes. If the ABS light does not turn on when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON/RUN position, have the light inspected by an
authorized dealer.
– Air Bag Warning Light
This light will turn on for four to eight seconds as a bulb check when the ignition
switch is first turned to the ON/RUN position. If the light is either not on during
starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the system inspected at an
authorized dealer as soon as possible. Refer to “Occupant Restraints” in “Things To
Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” in your Owner’s Manual on the DVD for further
information.
NOTE:
The Air Bag System is designed to be maintenance free.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
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– Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
This light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system.
If a problem is detected, the light will come on while the engine is running. Cycle the
ignition when the vehicle has completely stopped and the gear selector 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.
– Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
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 Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) which display in the Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC) or Driver Information Display (DID) when one or more of your tires is
significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure EVIC or DID
display 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 EVIC or DID display.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
191

– Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of an onboard diagnostic system called
OBD II that monitors engine and automatic transmission control systems. The light
will illuminate when the key is in the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the bulb
does not come on when turning the key from OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition
checked promptly.
Certain conditions, poor fuel quality, etc., may illuminate the light after engine start.
The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on through several of your typical
driving cycles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive normally and will not require
towing.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) on could cause
damage to the engine 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.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as referenced above, can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating conditions. This can cause a fire if you
drive slowly or park over flammable substances such as dry plants, wood,
cardboard, etc. This could result in death or serious injury to the driver, occupants
or others.
– Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” in the instrument cluster will
come on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON/RUN position. It should go out
with the engine running. If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” comes
on continuously with the engine running, a malfunction has been detected in the ESC
system. 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), see your
authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the problem diagnosed and corrected.
NOTE:
• The “ESC Off Indicator Light” and the “ESC Activation/Malfunction IndicatorLight” come on momentarily each time the ignition switch is turned to ON/RUN.
• Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN, the ESC system will be ON, even if it was turned off previously.
• The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop when ESC becomes inactive following the maneuver
that caused the ESC activation.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
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CAUTION!
Tow hooks are for emergency use only, to rescue a vehicle stranded off road. Do not
use tow hooks for tow truck hookup or highway towing. You could damage your
vehicle.
MANUAL PARK RELEASE
WARNING!
Always secure your vehicle by fully applying the parking brake, before activating
the Manual Park Release. Activating the Manual Park Release will allow your
vehicle to roll away if it is not secured by the parking brake or by proper connection
to a tow vehicle. Activating the Manual Park Release on an unsecured vehicle
could lead to serious injury or death for those in or around the vehicle.
In order to move the vehicle in cases where the transmission will not shift out of
PARK (such as a dead battery), a Manual Park Release is available.
Follow these steps to use the Manual Park Release:
1. Firmly apply the parking brake.
2. Open the center console and locate the Manual Park Release cover, remove it by snapping the cover away from the console hinges.
3. Using a screwdriver or similar tool, push the metal latch in towards the
tether strap.
Manual Park Release Cover Removed
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
210

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 vehicles may
also be towed as described under “Recreational Towing” in the “Starting and
Operating” section in the Owners Manual on the DVD.
NOTE:
Vehicles equipped with Quadra-Lift must be placed in Transport mode, before tying
them down (from the body) on a trailer or flatbed truck. Refer to the section on
Quadra-Lift for more information. If the vehicle cannot be placed in Transport mode
(for example, engine will not run), tie-downs must be fastened to the axles (not to the
body). Failure to follow these instructions may cause fault codes to be set and/or
cause loss of proper tie-down tension.
Towing
Condition Wheels OFF the
Ground Two-Wheel Drive
Models Four-Wheel Drive
Models Without
4WD LOW Range Four-Wheel Drive
Models With
4WD LOW Range
Flat Tow NONE NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED See instructions
in “Recreational Towing” under “Utility”
• Transmission
in PARK
• Transfer case
in NEUTRAL
(N)
•
Tow in forward
direction
Dolly Tow Front
NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED
Rear OKNOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer ALL OKOKOK
NOTE:
SRT vehicles and 4WD models without 4WD LOW range should only be towed with all
four wheelsOFFthe ground.
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 bumpers or
associated brackets. State and local laws regarding vehicles under tow must be
observed.
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If you must use the accessories (wipers, defrosters, etc.) while being towed, the
ignition must be in the ON/RUN position, not the ACC position.
If the key fob is unavailable, or the vehicle's battery is discharged, refer to “Manual
Park Release” in this section for instructions on shifting the transmission out of
PARK for towing.
CAUTION!
• Do not use sling type equipment when towing. Vehicle damage may occur.
• When securing the vehicle to a flat bed truck, do not attach to front or rearsuspension components. Damage to your vehicle may result from improper
towing.
Two-Wheel Drive Models
The manufacturer recommends towing your vehicle with all four wheels OFFthe
ground using a flatbed.
If flatbed equipment is not available, and the transmission is operable, the vehicle
may be towed (with rear wheels on the ground) under the following conditions:
• The transmission must be in NEUTRAL. Refer to "Manual Park Release" in this section for instructions on shifting the transmission to NEUTRAL when the engine
is off.
• The towing speed must not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
• The towing distance must not exceed 30 miles (48 km).
If the transmission is not operable, or the vehicle must be towed faster than 30 mph
(48 km/h) or farther than 30 miles (48 km), tow with the rear wheels OFFthe ground.
Acceptable methods are to tow the vehicle on a flatbed, or with the front wheels
raised and the rear wheels on a towing dolly, or (when using a suitable steering wheel
stabilizer to hold the front wheels in the straight position) with the rear wheels raised
and the front wheels on the ground.
CAUTION!
Towing faster than 30 mph (48 km/h) or farther than 30 miles (48 km) with rear
wheels on the ground can cause severe transmission damage. Damage from
improper towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
213