engine Ram 1500 2013 Get to Know Guide 

CAUTION!
Use of aftermarket exhaust brakes is not recommended and could lead to engine
damage.
WARNING!
Do not use the exhaust brake feature when driving in icy or slippery conditions as
the increased engine braking can cause the rear wheels to slide and the vehicle to
swing around with the possible loss of vehicle control, which may cause a collision
possibly resulting in personal injury or death.
IDLE-UP FEATURE (AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ONLY)
•The Idle-Up Feature uses the speed control switches to increase engine idle speed
and quickly warm the vehicle’s interior. This feature must be enabled by your dealer.
See your local dealer.
•With the transmission in PARK, the parking brake applied, and the engine running,
push the speed control ON/OFF switch on, then push the SET switch.
• The engine RPM will go up to 1100 RPM. To increase the RPM, push and hold the RESUME/ACCEL switch and the idle speed will increase to approximately
1500 RPM. To decrease the RPM, push and hold the SET/DECEL switch and the
idle speed will decrease to approximately 1100 RPM.
• To cancel the Idle Up Feature, either push the CANCEL switch, push the ON/OFF switch or push the brake pedal.
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ENGINE MOUNTED FUEL FILTER/WATER SEPARATOR
Draining Fuel/Water Separator
•
If the “Water in Fuel” indicator lightis illuminated and an audible chime is
heard five times, you should stop the engine and drain the water from the separator.
• The drain is located on the bottom of the Fuel Filter and Water Separator assembly which is located on the driver's side of the engine.
• Turn the drain valve (located on the side of the filter) counterclockwise 1/4 turn, then turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position to allow any accumulated
water to drain.
• When clean fuel is visible, close the drain and switch the ignition to OFF.
• Refer to the Owner's Manual on the DVD for further details.
Fuel Filter Replacement
• With the engine off and a drain pan under the fuel filter drain hose, open the water drain valve 1/4 turn counterclockwise and completely drain fuel and water into the
approved container.
• Close the water drain valve and remove the lid using a socket or strap wrench; rotate counterclockwise for removal. Remove the used o-ring and discard it.
• Remove the used filter cartridge from the housing and dispose of according to your local regulations.
• Wipe clean the sealing surfaces of the lid and housing and install the new o-ring into ring groove on the filter housing and lubricate with clean engine oil.
• Install a new filter in the housing. Push down on the cartridge to ensure it is properly seated. Do not pre-fill the filter housing with fuel.
• Install the lid onto the housing and tighten to 22.5 ft lbs (30.5 N·m). Do not overtighten the lid.
• Start the engine and confirm no leaks are present.
The engine mounted filter housing is equipped with a No-Filter-No-Run (NFNR)
feature. Engine will not run if:
1. No filter is installed.
2.
Inferior/Non-approved filter is used. Use of OEM filter is required to ensure vehicle
will run.
CAUTION!
•Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving surfaces. Drain the filter into an appro-
priate container.
•Do not prefill the fuel filter when installing a new fuel filter. There is a possibility
debris could be introduced into the fuel filter during this action. It is best to install
the filter dry and allow the in-tank lift pump to prime the fuel system.
•If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” remains on, DO NOT START the engine
before you drain water from the fuel filter to avoid engine damage.
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UNDERBODY MOUNTED FUEL FILTER/WATER SEPARATOR
Draining Fuel/Water Separator
•
If the “Water in Fuel” indicator lightis illuminated and an audible chime is
heard five times, you should stop the engine and drain the water from the separator.
• The drain is located on the bottom of the Fuel Filter and Water Separator assembly which is located in front of the rear axle above the drive shaft. The best access to
this water drain valve is from under the vehicle.
• Turn the drain valve (located on the side of the filter) counterclockwise 1 full turn, then turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position to allow any accumulated
water to drain.
• When clean fuel is visible, close the drain and switch the ignition to OFF.
• Refer to the Owner's Manual on the DVD for further details.
Underbody Fuel Filter Replacement
• With the engine off and a drain pan under the fuel filter drain hose, open the water drain valve 1 full turn counterclockwise and completely drain fuel and water into
the approved container.
• Close the water drain valve and remove the lid using a socket or strap wrench; rotate counterclockwise for removal. Remove the used o-ring and discard it.
• Remove the used filter cartridge from the housing and dispose of according to your local regulations.
• Wipe clean the sealing surfaces of the lid and housing and install the new o-ring into ring groove on the filter housing and lubricate with clean engine oil.
• Install a new filter in the housing. Push down on the cartridge to ensure it is properly seated. Do not pre-fill the filter housing with fuel.
• Start the engine and confirm no leaks are present.
The underbody mounted filter housing will cause the engine not to run if:
1. No filter is installed.
NOTE:
• Using a fuel filter that does not meet the manufacturer's filtration and water separating requirements can severely impact fuel system life and reliability.
• The WIF sensor is re-usable. Service kit comes with new o-ring for filter canister and WIF sensor.
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CAUTION!
•Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving surfaces. Drain the filter into an appro-
priate container.
•Do not prefill the fuel filter when installing a new fuel filter. There is a possibility
debris could be introduced into the fuel filter during this action. It is best to install
the filter dry and allow the in-tank lift pump to prime the fuel system.
• If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” remains on, DO NOT START the enginebefore you drain water from the fuel filter to avoid engine damage.
ADDING FUEL – DIESEL ENGINE ONLY
• Your vehicle is equipped with a cap-less fuel system.
• Most fuel cans will not open the flapper door.
• A funnel is provided to open the flapper door to allow emergency refueling with afuel can.
Emergency Fuel Can Refueling
1. Retrieve funnel from the jack storage area under the passenger seat.
2. Insert the funnel into same filler pipe opening as the fuel nozzle.
3. Ensure the funnel is inserted fully to hold flapper door open.
4. Pour fuel into funnel opening.
5. Remove the funnel from filler pipe, clean off prior to putting back in the jack storage area under the passenger seat.
EXHAUST REGENERATION
• Under certain conditions, your Cummins®diesel engine and exhaust after-
treatment system may never reach the conditions required to remove the trapped
particulate matter. If this occurs, the “Exhaust System — Regeneration Required
Now” message will be displayed on the EVIC screen in your cluster and you will
hear one chime to alert you of this condition. Driving your vehicle at highway
speeds for as little as 45 minutes can remedy the condition and allow the engine
and exhaust after-treatment system to remove the trapped particulate matter.
• PLEASE NOTE: Under typical operating conditions, NO indications of regenera- tion state will be displayed. If you do reach 80% of filter capacity, the following
messages will assist you in inducing and understanding the regeneration process.
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Perform Service
• Your vehicle will require emissions maintenance at a set interval. To help remindyou when this maintenance is due, the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC) will display “Perform Service”. When the “Perform Service” message is
displayed on the EVIC it is necessary to have the emissions maintenance
performed. Emissions maintenance may include replacing the Closed Crankcase
Ventilation (CCV) filter element, and cleaning of the EGR Cooler. The procedure for
clearing and resetting the "Perform Service" indicator message is located in the
appropriate Service Information.
Exhaust System — Regeneration Required Now
• “Exhaust System—Regeneration Required Now” will be displayed on the EVIC if the exhaust particulate filter reaches 80% of its maximum storage capacity.
Exhaust Filter XX% Full
• Indicates that the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is approaching full.
Exhaust System — Regeneration in Process Exhaust Filter XX% Full
• Indicates that the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is self-cleaning. Maintain your current driving condition until regeneration is completed.
Exhaust System — Regeneration Completed
•
Indicates that the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) self-cleaning is completed. If this
message is displayed, you will hear one chime to assist in alerting you of this condition.
Exhaust Service Required — See Dealer Now
• Regeneration has been disabled due to a system malfunction. The Powertrain control Module (PCM) will register a fault code and the instrument panel will
display the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).
Exhaust Filter Full — Power Reduced See Dealer
• The PCM derates the engine in order to limit the likelihood of permanent damage to the after-treatment system. If this condition is not corrected and a dealer service
is not performed, extensive exhaust after-treatment damage can occur. Have your
vehicle serviced by your local authorized dealer.
CAUTION!
See your authorized dealer, as damage to the exhaust system could occur with the
exhaust filter full.
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COOL-DOWN IDLE CHART
TURBO "COOL DOWN" CHART
Driving Conditions Load Turbo TempIdle Time
(in minutes)
Before Shut Down
Stop and Go EmptyCoolLess than 1
Stop and Go MediumWarm 1
Highway Speeds Medium Warm2
City Traffic Max. GCWR Warm3
Highway Speeds Max. GCWR Warm4
Uphill Grade Max. GCWR Hot5
DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) sometimes known simply by the name of its active
component, UREA—is a key component of selective catalytic reduction (SCR)
systems, which help diesel vehicles meet stringent emission regulations. DEF is a
liquid reducing agent that reacts with engine exhaust in the presence of a catalyst
to convert smog-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water
vapor.
• Your vehicle is equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction system in order to meet the very stringent diesel emissions standards required by the Environmental
Protection Agency. Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) is the first and only
technology in decades to be as good for the environment as it is good for business
and vehicle performance.
• The purpose of the SCR system is to reduce levels of NOx (oxides of nitrogen emitted from engines) that are harmful to our health and the environment to an
almost near-zero level. Small quantities of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) are injected
into the exhaust upstream of a catalyst where, when vaporized, convert smog-
forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen (N2) and water vapor (H2O),
two natural components of the air we breathe. You can operate with the comfort
that your vehicle is contributing to a cleaner, healthier world environment for this
and generations to come.
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System Overview
• This vehicle is equipped with a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) injection system anda Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) catalyst to meet the emission requirements.
• The DEF injection system consists of the following components: • DEF tank
• DEF pump
• DEF injector
• Electronically-heated DEF lines
• DEF control module
• NOx sensors
• NH3 sensor
• Temperature sensors
• SCR catalyst
• The DEF injection system and SCR catalyst enable the achievement of diesel emissions requirements; while maintaining outstanding fuel economy, drivability,
torque and power ratings.
NOTE:
• Your vehicle is equipped with a DEF injection system. You may occasionally hear an audible clicking noise. This is normal operation.
• The DEF pump will run for a period of time after engine shutdown to purge the DEF system. This is normal operation.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid Storage
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is considered a very stable product with a long shelf life. If DEF is kept in temperatures between 10° to 90°F (-12° to 32°C), it will last
a minimum of one year.
• DEF is subject to freezing at the lowest temperatures. For example, DEF may freeze at temperatures at or below 12° F (-11° C). The system has been designed
to operate in this environment.
NOTE:
When working with DEF, it is important to know that:
• Any containers or parts that come into contact with DEF must be DEF compatible (plastic or stainless steel). Copper, brass, aluminum, iron or non-stainless steel
should be avoided as they are subject to corrosion by DEF.
• If DEF is spilled, it should be wiped up completely.
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•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 telltale. When the system detects a malfunction,
the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously
illuminated. This sequence will continue each time the vehicle is restarted 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 TPMS from functioning properly. Always
check the TPMS malfunction telltale 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.
NOTE:
Tire pressures change by approximately 1 psi (7 kPa) per 12° F (7° C) of air temperature
change. Keep this in mind when checking tire pressure inside a garage, especially in the
Winter. Example: If garage temperature is 68°F (20°C) and the outside temperature is
32°F (0°C), then the cold tire inflation pressure should be increased by 3 psi (21 kPa),
which equals 1 psi (7 kPa) for every 12°F (7°C) for this outside temperature condition.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original equipment 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. Aftermarket
wheels can cause sensor damage. Do not use tire sealant from a can, or balance
beads if your vehicle is equipped with a TPMS, as damage to the sensors may result.
- Engine Temperature Warning Light
• This light warns of an overheated engine condition.
• If the light turns on and a warning chime sounds while driving, safely pull over and stop the vehicle. If the A/C system is on, turn it off. Also, shift the transmission into
NEUTRAL and idle the vehicle. If the temperature reading does not return to
normal, turn the engine off immediately.
• We recommend that you do not operate the vehicle or engine damage will occur. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or others could be badly burned by
steam or boiling coolant. You may want to call an authorized dealer for service if
your vehicle overheats.
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BRAKE- Brake Warning Light
• The Brake Warning light illuminates when there is either a system malfunction or the parking brake is applied. If the light is on and the parking brake is not applied,
it indicates a possible brake hydraulic malfunction, brake booster problem or an
Anti-Lock Brake System problem.
• Please have your vehicle serviced immediately.
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., may illuminate 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 (ESC) OFF Indicator Light
• If the ESC OFF indicator light comes on when the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is off.
- Charging System Light
• This light shows the status of the electrical charging system. If the charging system 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, stop the 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, we recommend you drive to the nearest service center and have the vehicle serviced
immediately.
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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 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.
- Air Bag Warning Light
• If the light is not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the vehicle serviced by an authorized service center immediately.
- SERV (Service) 4WD Indicator Light
• The SERV 4WD light monitors the electric shift four-wheel drive system. If the SERV 4WD light stays on or comes on during driving, it means that the four-wheel
drive system is not functioning properly and that service is required.
• For vehicles equipped with a premium cluster this indicator will display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).
- 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.
OIL CHANGE EVIC INDICATOR
Message
•If an “oil change” message (shown as "Change Oil Soon" and "Oil Change Needed")
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.
- Low Coolant Level Indicator Light
• This light indicates low coolant level. If the light turns on while driving, stop the vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible.
• We recommend you do not operate the vehicle or engine damage will occur. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
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