air conditioning Ram 1500 2019 Owner's Manual

CLIMATE CONTROLS
Climate Controls Without A Touchscreen Overview
The controls for the manual heating and air conditioning
system in this vehicle consist of a series of outer rotary
dials and inner push knobs. These comfort controls can be
set to obtain desired interior conditions.
Manual Climate Controls
80 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE

Manual Climate Control Descriptions
IconDescription
MAX A/C Setting
Rotate the temperature control knob until it is set to MAX A/C. This is the coldest setting and
puts the A/C to maximum power.
A/C Button
Push the A/C button to engage the Air Conditioning (A/C). A LED will illuminate when the
A/C system is engaged.
Recirculation Button
Push and release this button to change the system between recirculation mode and outside air
mode. Recirculation can be used when outside conditions such as smoke, odors, dust, or high
humidity are present.
NOTE:
•Continuous use of the Recirculation mode may make the inside air stuffy and window fog-
ging may occur. Extended use of this mode is not recommended.
•The use of the Recirculation mode in cold or damp weather could cause windows to fog on
the inside, because of moisture buildup inside the vehicle. Select the outside air position for
maximum defogging.
•Recirculation can be used in all modes except for Defrost.
•The A/C can be deselected manually without disturbing the mode control selection.
3
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE 81

IconDescription
Climate Control OFF Button
This button turns the Climate Control System off.
Climate Control Functions
A/C (Air Conditioning)
The Air Conditioning (A/C) button allows the operator to
manually activate or deactivate the air conditioning sys-
tem. When the air conditioning system is turned on, cool
dehumidified air will flow through the outlets into the
cabin. For improved fuel economy, press the A/C button to
turn off the air conditioning and manually adjust the
blower and airflow mode settings. Also, make sure to select
only Panel, Bi-Level, or Floor modes.
NOTE:
•
If fog or mist appears on the windshield or side glass,
select Defrost mode, and increase blower speed if needed.
• If your air conditioning performance seems lower than
expected, check the front of the A/C condenser (located
in front of the radiator), for an accumulation of dirt or
insects. Clean with a gentle water spray from the front of
the radiator and through the condenser. MAX A/C
MAX A/C sets the control for maximum cooling perfor-
mance.
Press and release to toggle between MAX A/C and the
prior settings. The button illuminates when MAX A/C is
on.
In MAX A/C, the blower level and mode position can be
adjusted to desired user settings. Pressing other settings
will cause the MAX A/C operation to switch to the selected
setting and MAX A/C to exit.
Recirculation
When outside air contains smoke, odors, or high humidity,
or if rapid cooling is desired, you may wish to recirculate
interior air by pressing the Recirculation control button.
The Recirculation indicator will illuminate when this but-
ton is selected. Press the button a second time to turn off
the Recirculation mode and allow outside air into the
vehicle.
92 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE

Operating Tips
NOTE:Refer to the chart at the end of this section for
suggested control settings for various weather conditions.
Summer Operation
The engine cooling system must be protected with a
high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide proper corrosion
protection and to protect against engine overheating. OAT
coolant (conforming to MS.90032) is recommended.
Winter Operation
To ensure the best possible heater and defroster perfor-
mance, make sure the engine cooling system is functioning
properly and the proper amount, type, and concentration
of coolant is used. Use of the Air Recirculation mode
during Winter months is not recommended, because it may
cause window fogging.
Vacation/Storage
Before you store your vehicle, or keep it out of service (i.e.,
vacation) for two weeks or more, run the air conditioning
system at idle for about five minutes, in fresh air with the
blower setting on high. This will ensure adequate system
lubrication to minimize the possibility of compressor dam-
age when the system is started again.
Window Fogging
Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in mild, rainy,
and/or humid weather. To clear the windows, select De-
frost or Mix mode and increase the front blower speed. Do
not use the Recirculation mode without A/C for long
periods, as fogging may occur.
CAUTION!
Failure to follow these cautions can cause damage to
the heating elements:
• Use care when washing the inside of the rear win-
dow. Do not use abrasive window cleaners on the
interior surface of the window. Use a soft cloth and a
mild washing solution, wiping parallel to the heat-
ing elements. Labels can be peeled off after soaking
with warm water.
• Do not use scrapers, sharp instruments, or abrasive
window cleaners on the interior surface of the win-
dow.
• Keep all objects a safe distance from the window.
94 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE

Towing Tips
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping, and
backing up the trailer in an area located away from heavy
traffic.
Automatic Transmission
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy to avoid
frequent shifting when towing. However, if frequent shift-
ing does occur while in DRIVE, select TOW/HAUL mode
or select a lower gear range (using the Electronic Range
Select (ERS) shift control).
NOTE:Using TOW/HAUL mode or selecting a lower
gear range (using the ERS shift control) while operating the
vehicle under heavy loading conditions will improve per-
formance and extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat build up. This action will also
provide better engine braking.
Tow/Haul Mode
To reduce potential for automatic transmission overheat-
ing, activate TOW/HAUL mode when driving in hilly
areas, or select a lower gear range (using the Electronic
Range Select (ERS) shift control) on more severe grades.
Speed Control — If Equipped
• Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
• When using the speed control, if you experience speed
drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed.
• Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to
maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission overheat-
ing, take the following actions:
City Driving
• In city traffic — while stopped, place the transmission in
NEUTRAL, but do not increase engine idle speed.
Highway Driving
• Reduce speed.
• Temporarily turn off air conditioning.
422 STARTING AND OPERATING

3. Remove the air cleaner filter element from the housingassembly.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation
NOTE: Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is
present before replacing the air filter element.
1. Install the air cleaner filter element into the housing assembly with the air cleaner filter inspection surface
facing downward. 2. Install the air cleaner cover onto the housing assembly.
3. Tighten the fasteners (six) on the air cleaner filter
assembly
Air Conditioner Maintenance
For best possible performance, your air conditioner should
be checked and serviced by an authorized dealer at the
start of each warm season. This service should include
cleaning of the condenser fins and a performance test.
Drive belt tension should also be checked at this time.
WARNING!
•Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants ap-
proved by the manufacturer for your air conditioning
system. Some unapproved refrigerants are flam-
mable and can explode, injuring you. Other unap-
proved refrigerants or lubricants can cause the sys-
tem to fail, requiring costly repairs. Refer to
Warranty Information Book, for further warranty
information.
• The air conditioning system contains refrigerant un-
der high pressure. To avoid risk of personal injury or
damage to the system, adding refrigerant or any
(Continued)
Air Cleaner Filter
1 — Air Cleaner Cover
2 — Air Cleaner Filter
8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 503

WARNING!(Continued)
repair requiring lines to be disconnected should be
done by an experienced technician.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your air conditioning
system as the chemicals can damage your air condition-
ing components. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling — R–1234yf
R–1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluo-
roolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the Environmental
Protection Agency and is an ozone-friendly substance with
a low global-warming potential. The manufacturer recom-
mends that air conditioning service be performed by an
authorized dealer using recovery and recycling equipment.
NOTE:Use only manufacturer approved A/C system
PAG compressor oil, and refrigerants.
Cabin Filter Replacement (A/C Air Filter)
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper mainte-
nance intervals.
WARNING!
Do not remove the cabin air filter while the vehicle is
running, or while the ignition is in the ACC or ON/
RUN mode. With the cabin air filter removed and the
blower operating, the blower can contact hands and
may propel dirt and debris into your eyes, resulting in
personal injury.
The cabin air filter is located in the fresh air inlet behind the
glove compartment. Perform the following procedure to
replace the filter:
1. Open the glove compartment and remove all contents.
504 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

When additional engine coolant (antifreeze) is needed to
maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant
bottle. Do not overfill.
Points To Remember
NOTE:When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/
kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor coming
from the front of the engine compartment. This is normally
a result of moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity
accumulating on the radiator and being vaporized when
the thermostat opens, allowing hot engine coolant (anti-
freeze) to enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be
safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
• Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
• Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in the
coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant (antifreeze)
needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion
bottle must also be protected against freezing. •
If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are
required, the cooling system should be pressure tested
for leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a
minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) and distilled water for proper corrosion pro-
tection of your engine which contains aluminum com-
ponents.
• Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow
hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is
equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY
the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in
unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
518 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (Cruise Control) . . . .343
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze).............515
Adding Fuel ............................. .404
Additives, Fuel ........................... .559
Adjust Down .................................47
Forward ................................47
Rearward ...............................47
Up....................................47
Adjustable Pedals ...........................60
Air Bag Air Bag Operation ....................... .247
Air Bag Warning Light .................243, 248
Enhanced Accident Response .............260, 484
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .................485
FrontAirBag .......................... .248
If Deployment Occurs .....................259
Knee Impact Bolsters ..................... .255
Maintaining Your Air Bag System .............262
Maintenance ........................... .262
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light ............244
Transporting Pets ....................... .284
Air Bag Light ...................... .179, 243, 285
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) ......501
Air Conditioner Maintenance ..................503 Air Conditioner Refrigerant
................503, 504
Air Conditioner System ..................... .503
Air Conditioning ............................80
Air Conditioning Filter ....................95, 504
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips ................94
Air Conditioning System ......................93
Air Filter ............................... .501
Air Pressure Tires................................. .533
Air Suspension ........................ .322, 328
Alarm Panic ..................................21
Security Alarm....................... .33, 181
Alterations/Modifications Vehicle .................................6
Android Auto ............................ .667
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ................514, 563
Disposal .............................. .516
Anti-Lock

Brake System (ABS) .................198
Anti-Lock Warning Light .....................188
Apple CarPlay ........................... .669
Assist, Hill Start .......................... .200
Audio Systems (Radio) ...................... .569
Auto Down Power Windows ...................96
Automatic Door Locks ........................41
680 INDEX

Engine Oil Viscosity........................ .499
Engine Oil Viscosity Chart ....................499
Enhanced Accident Response Feature .........260, 484
Entry System, Illuminated .....................76
Ethanol ................................. .560
Exhaust Gas Cautions ....................285, 562
Exhaust System ........................ .285, 511
Exterior Lighting ............................68
Exterior Lights ......................... .68, 287
Filters Air Cleaner ............................ .501
Air Conditioning ..................... .95, 504
Engine Oil ......................... .501, 564
Engine Oil Disposal ...................... .500
Flashers Turn Signals ..................... .73, 192, 287
Flash-To-Pass ..............................71
Flat Tire Stowage .......................... .470
Fluid, Brake ............................. .566
Fluid Capacities ........................... .563
Fluid Leaks .............................. .288
Fluid Level Checks Brake ................................ .519
Fluids And Lubricants ...................... .564Fog Lights
............................ .72, 446
Fold-Flat Seats .............................43
Forward Collision Warning ....................221
Four-Way Hazard Flasher .....................435
Four Wheel Drive ......................... .313
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle ..................... .480
Front Axle (Differential) ..................... .521
Fuel ................................... .558
Adding .............................. .404
Additives ............................. .559
Clean Air ............................. .559
Ethanol .............................. .560
Gasoline .............................. .558
Light ................................ .186
Materials
Added........................ .559
Methanol ............................. .560
Octane Rating ....................558, 559, 564
Requirements ....................... .558, 563
Tank Capacity .......................... .563
Fuses .................................. .449
Garage Door Opener (HomeLink) ...............109
Gasoline, Clean Air ........................ .559
Gasoline, Reformulated ..................... .559
General Information ........................ .231
684 INDEX