power steering Ram 1500 2020 Owner's Manual

3

Ventilated Seats — If Equipped .................................. 52
Plastic Grocery Bag Retainers ..................................... 54
 HEAD RESTRAINTS ......................................................... 54
Front Head Restraints ................................................... 54
Rear Head Restraints .................................................... 55
 STEERING WHEEL ............................................................ 56
Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column ............................. 56
Heated Steering Wheel — If Equipped ..................... 57
 DRIVER ADJUSTABLE PEDALS — IF EQUIPPED ...... 58
 MIRRORS ............................................................................ 59
Inside Day/Night Mirror — If Equipped ................. 59
Automatic Dimming Mirror — If Equipped ............ 60
Outside Mirrors ............................................................ 61
Driver's Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror — If
Equipped......................................................................... 61
Power Mirrors — If Equipped .................................... 61
Power Folding Outside Mirrors For Standard And
Trailer Tow — If Equipped .......................................... 62
Trailer Towing Mirrors — If Equipped ..................... 64
Heated Mirrors — If Equipped ................................... 65
Tilt Side Mirrors In Reverse — If Equipped .............. 65
Illuminated Vanity Mirror — If Equipped ................ 65
 EXTERIOR LIGHTS ............................................................ 66
Headlight Switch ........................................................... 66
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) — If Equipped ..... 67
Multifunction Lever .....................................................68
High/Low Beam Switch ...............................................68
Automatic High Beam Headlamp Control — If
Equipped ........................................................................68
Flash-To-Pass..................................................................69
Automatic Headlights — If Equipped........................70
Parking Lights And Panel Lights ................................70
Headlights On With Wipers (Available With
Automatic Headlights Only)........................................70
Headlight Delay .............................................................70
Lights-On Reminder......................................................71
Front Fog Lights — If Equipped .................................71
Turn Signals ...................................................................71
Lane Change Assist — If Equipped ............................71
Cargo Light With Bed Lights — If Equipped ............72
Battery Saver...................................................................73
 INTERIOR LIGHTS ............................................................73
Courtesy Lights ..............................................................73
Illuminated Entry ..........................................................75
 WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS ......................75
Windshield Wipers........................................................75
Rain Sensing Wipers — If Equipped ..........................77
 CLIMATE CONTROLS .....................................................78
Manual Climate Control Overview ............................78
Automatic Climate Control Overview .......................82
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STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING THE ENGINE .............................................. 290
Automatic Transmission ............................................ 291
Tip Start Feature ......................................................... 291
Keyless Enter-N-Go — Ignition................................. 291
Normal Starting Using ENGINE START/STOP
Button ............................................................................ 292
Cold Weather Operation (Below –22°F Or
−30°C) ........................................................................... 296
After Starting................................................................ 296
 ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED .............. 296
 ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS ............ 297
 PARKING BRAKE ............................................................ 297
Electric Park Brake (EPB) ........................................... 297
 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ................................... 302
Ignition Park Interlock ................................................ 303
Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System ........... 304
Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission ..................... 304
 FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION — IF
 EQUIPPED ........................................................................ 310
Four-Position Electronically Shifted Transfer Case
(Eight Speed Transmission Only) — If
Equipped ...................................................................... 311
Five-Position Electronically Shifted Transfer Case
(Eight Speed Transmission Only) — If
Equipped ...................................................................... 314 
ACTIVE-LEVEL FOUR CORNER AIR SUSPENSION
SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED ...............................................319
Description.................................................................... 319
Air Suspension Modes ................................................322
Instrument Cluster Display Messages ......................323
Operation ......................................................................323
 ACTIVE-LEVEL FOUR CORNER AIR SUSPENSION
SYSTEM (REBEL MODELS ONLY) — IF
EQUIPPED .........................................................................325
Description.................................................................... 325
Air Suspension Modes ................................................328
Instrument Cluster Display Messages ......................329
Operation ......................................................................329
 AXLE LOCKER SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED ..................331
 LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED ...... 332
 POWER STEERING ..........................................................333
Electric Power Steering ..............................................333
 FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY 5.7L ENGINES ONLY —
IF EQUIPPED .....................................................................333
 STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED .....................334
Automatic Mode ..........................................................334
Possible Reasons The Engine Does Not
Autostop........................................................................334
To Start The Engine While In Autostop Mode ........335
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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE 29
To Enter Remote Start Mode
Push and release the Remote Start button on the key fob
twice within five seconds. The parking lights will flash,
vehicle doors will lock, and the horn will chirp twice (if
programmed). Once the vehicle has started, the engine will
run for 15 minutes.
NOTE:
• If your power door locks were unlocked, Remote Start willautomatically lock the doors.
• If an engine fault is present or fuel level is low, the vehicle will start and then shut down in 10 seconds.
• The park lamps will turn on and remain on during Remote Start mode.
• For security, power window and power sunroof operation (if equipped) are disabled when the vehicle is in the
Remote Start mode.
• The engine can be started two consecutive times (two 15 minute cycles) with the key fob. However, the ignition
must be placed in the ON/RUN position before you can
repeat the start sequence for a third cycle.
To Exit Remote Start Mode Without Driving The
Vehicle
Push and release the remote start button one time or allow
the engine to run for the entire 15 minute cycle.
NOTE:
To avoid unintentional shutdowns, the system will disable
with a one time push of the remote start button for two
seconds after receiving a valid remote start request.
To Exit Remote Start Mode And Drive The Vehicle
Before the end of the 15 minute cycle, push and release the
unlock button on the key fob to unlock the doors and disarm
the vehicle security alarm system (if equipped). Then, prior
to the end of the 15 minute cycle, place the ignition in the
ON/RUN position.
Remote Start Comfort Systems — If Equipped
When Remote Start is activated, the heated steering wheel
and driver heated seat features will automatically turn on in
cold weather. In warm weather, the driver vented seat
feature will automatically turn on when the remote start is
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106 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
1. Pull the hood release lever located below the steeringwheel at the base of the instrument panel.
2. Reach into the opening beneath the center of the hood and push the safety latch lever to the left to release it,
before raising the hood.
Safety Latch LocationTo Close The Hood
Hoods equipped with gas props are closed from the point
where the props no longer hold the hood open.
TAILGATE
Opening
The power tailgate may be opened by pushing the tailgate
release pad located on the tailgate door.
The tailgate damper strut will lower the tailgate to the open
position (if equipped).
WARNING!
Be sure the hood is fully latched before driving your
vehicle. If the hood is not fully latched, it could open
when the vehicle is in motion and block your vision.
Failure to follow this warning could result in serious
injury or death.
CAUTION!
To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to
close it. Use a firm downward push at the front center of
the hood to ensure that both latches engage.
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132 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
NOTE:
400 Watts is the maximum for the inverter, not each outlet. If
three outlets are in use, 400 Watts is shared amongst the
devices plugged in.
If equipped, a 115 Volt (400 Watts Maximum) inverter may
be located inside the ram box of your vehicle. The inverter
can be turned on by the Instrument Panel Power Inverter
switch located to the left of the steering wheel. The RamBox
inverter can power cellular phones, electronics and other low
power devices requiring power up to 400 Watts. Certain
high-end video game consoles exceed this power limit, as
will most power tools.
The Instrument Panel Power Inverter switch is only found on
vehicles equipped with a RamBox. The switch only controls
on/off operation of the power outlet in the RamBox; it does
not control on/off operation of the power outlets located
inside the cabin of the vehicle.Ram Box Power Inverter
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182 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
NOTE:
This light may turn on if the accelerator and brake pedals are
pressed at the same time.
If the light continues to flash when the vehicle 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. The light will
come on when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or
ACC/ON/RUN position and remain on briefly as a bulb
check. If the light does not come on during starting, have the
system checked by an authorized dealer. — Electric Power Steering Fault Warning Light

This warning light will turn on when there's a fault with the
Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Refer to “Power Steering”
in “Starting And Operating” for further information.
— Tailgate Open Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the tailgate is open.
NOTE:
If the vehicle is moving, there will also be a single chime.
— Trailer Brake Disconnected Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the Trailer Brake has
been disconnected.
— Transmission Temperature Warning Light — If
Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to warn of a high transmis -
sion fluid temperature. This may occur with strenuous usage
such as trailer towing. If this light turns on, stop the vehicle
and run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the trans -
mission in PARK or NEUTRAL, until the light turns off.
Once the light turns off, you may continue to drive normally.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose a
safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be
obtained as soon as possible.
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.
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SAFETY 201
it then applies the appropriate brake and may also reduce
engine power to lessen the chance that wheel lift will occur.
ERM can only reduce the chance of wheel lift occurring
during severe or evasive driving maneuvers; it cannot
prevent wheel lift due to other factors, such as road condi-
tions, leaving the roadway, or striking objects or other vehi -
cles.
NOTE:
ERM is disabled anytime the ESC is in “Full Off” mode (if
equipped). Refer to “Electronic Stability Control (ESC)” in
this section for a complete explanation of the available ESC
modes. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system enhances
directional control and stability of the vehicle under various
driving conditions. ESC corrects for oversteering or under
-
steering of the vehicle by applying the brake of the appro -
priate wheel(s) to assist in counteracting the oversteer or
understeer condition. Engine power may also be reduced to
help the vehicle maintain the desired path.
ESC uses sensors in the vehicle to determine the vehicle path
intended by the driver and compares it to the actual path of
the vehicle. When the actual path does not match the
intended path, ESC applies the brake of the appropriate
wheel to assist in counteracting the oversteer or understeer
condition.
• Oversteer — when the vehicle is turning more than appro -
priate for the steering wheel position.
• Understeer — when the vehicle is turning less than appro -
priate for the steering wheel position.
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” located
in the instrument cluster will start to flash as soon as the ESC
system becomes active. The “ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light” also flashes when the TCS is active. If the
“ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” begins to
WARNING!
Many factors, such as vehicle loading, road conditions
and driving conditions, influence the chance that wheel
lift or rollover may occur. ERM cannot prevent all wheel
lift or roll overs, especially those that involve leaving the
roadway or striking objects or other vehicles. The
capabilities of an ERM-equipped vehicle must never be
exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could
jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others.
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210 SAFETY

6. Push the “ESC Off” button located in the lower switch bankbelow the climate control four times within 20 seconds. The
“ESC Off Indicator Light” should turn on and turn off two
times.

7. Rotate the steering wheel back to center and then an addi -
tional slightly more than one-half turn to the right.
8. Turn the ignition to the OFF mode and then back to ON. If the sequence was completed properly, the “ESC Off
Indicator Light” will blink several times to confirm HSA
is disabled.
9. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting.
Traction Control System (TCS)
The Traction Control System (TCS) monitors the amount of
wheel spin of each of the driven wheels. If wheel spin is
detected, the TCS may apply brake pressure to the spinning
wheel(s) and/or reduce engine power to provide enhanced
acceleration and stability. A feature of the TCS, Brake
Limited Differential (BLD), functions similar to a limited slip
differential and controls the wheel spin across a driven axle.
If one wheel on a driven axle is spinning faster than the other,
the system will apply the brake of the spinning wheel. This will allow more engine torque to be applied to the wheel that
is not spinning. BLD may remain enabled even if TCS and
ESC are in a reduced mode.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
Trailer Sway Control (TSC) uses sensors in the vehicle to
recognize an excessively swaying trailer and will take the
appropriate actions to attempt to stop the sway. TSC will
become active automatically once an excessively swaying
trailer is recognized.
NOTE:
TSC cannot stop all trailers from swaying. Always use
caution when towing a trailer and follow the trailer tongue
weight recommendations. Refer to “Trailer Towing” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information.
When TSC is functioning, the “ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light” will flash, the engine power may be reduced
and you may feel the brakes being applied to individual
wheels to attempt to stop the trailer from swaying. TSC is
disabled when the ESC system is in the “Partial Off” or “Full
Off” modes.
WARNING!
If TSC activates while driving, slow the vehicle down,
stop at the nearest safe location, and adjust the trailer
load to eliminate trailer sway.
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246 SAFETY
The air bag system must be ready to protect you in a colli-
sion. The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) monitors the
internal circuits and interconnecting wiring associated with
the electrical Air Bag System Components. Your vehicle may
be equipped with the following Air Bag System Compo -
nents:
Air Bag System Components
• Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
• Air Bag Warning Light
• Steering Wheel and Column
• Instrument Panel
• Knee Impact Bolsters
• Driver and Front Passenger Air Bags
• Seat Belt Buckle Switch
• Supplemental Side Air Bags
• Front and Side Impact Sensors
• Seat Belt Pretensioners
• Seat Track Position Sensors
• Occupant Classification System Air Bag Warning Light
The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic
parts of the air bag system whenever the ignition
switch is in the START or ON/RUN position. If the
ignition switch is in the OFF position or in the ACC position,
the air bag system is not on and the air bags will not inflate.
The ORC contains a backup power supply system that may
deploy the air bag system even if the battery loses power or
it becomes disconnected prior to deployment.
The ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in the instru-
ment panel for approximately four to eight seconds for a
self-check when the ignition switch is first in the ON/RUN
position. After the self-check, the Air Bag Warning Light will
turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the
system, it turns on the Air Bag Warning Light, either
momentarily or continuously. A single chime will sound to
alert you if the light comes on again after initial startup.
The ORC also includes diagnostics that will illuminate the
instrument panel Air Bag Warning Light if a malfunction is
detected that could affect the air bag system. The diagnostics
also record the nature of the malfunction. While the air bag
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SAFETY 263
(Continued)
Your vehicle may also be designed to perform any of these
other functions in response to the Enhanced Accident
Response System:
• Turn off the Fuel Filter Heater, Turn off the HVAC BlowerMotor, Close the HVAC Circulation Door
• Cut off battery power to the: • Engine
• Electric Motor (if equipped)
• Electric power steering
• Brake booster
• Electric park brake
• Automatic transmission gear selector
• Horn
• Front wiper
• Headlamp washer pump
NOTE:
After an accident, remember to cycle the ignition to the STOP
(OFF/LOCK) position and remove the key from the ignition
switch to avoid draining the battery. Carefully check the
vehicle for fuel leaks in the engine compartment and on the
ground near the engine compartment and fuel tank before
resetting the system and starting the engine. If there are no
fuel leaks or damage to the vehicle electrical devices (e.g. headlights) after an accident, reset the system by following
the procedure described below. If you have any doubt,
contact an authorized dealer.
Enhanced Accident Response System Reset Procedure
In order to reset the Enhanced Accident Response System
functions after an event, the ignition switch must be changed
from ignition START or ON/RUN to ignition OFF. Carefully
check the vehicle for fuel leaks in the engine compartment
and on the ground near the engine compartment and fuel
tank before resetting the system and starting the engine.
Maintaining Your Air Bag System
WARNING!
• Modifications to any part of the air bag system could cause it to fail when you need it. You could be injured
if the air bag system is not there to protect you. Do not
modify the components or wiring, including adding
any kind of badges or stickers to the steering wheel hub
trim cover or the upper passenger side of the instru -
ment panel. Do not modify the front bumper, vehicle
body structure, or add aftermarket side steps or
running boards.
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