radiator cap Ram 1500 2020 Owner's Manual

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY 475
If frequent jump starting is required to start your vehicle you
should have the battery and charging system inspected at an
authorized dealer.
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
In any of the following situations, you can reduce the poten-
tial for overheating by taking the appropriate action.
• On the highways — slow down.
• In city traffic — while stopped, place the transmission in NEUTRAL (N), but do not increase the engine idle speed
while preventing vehicle motion with the brakes. NOTE:
There are steps that you can take to slow down an impending
overheat condition:
• If your Air Conditioner (A/C) is on, turn it off. The A/C
system adds heat to the engine cooling system and turning
the A/C off can help remove this heat.
• You can also turn the temperature control to maximum heat, the mode control to floor and the blower control to
high. This allows the heater core to act as a supplement to
the radiator and aids in removing heat from the engine
cooling system.
CAUTION!
Accessories plugged into the vehicle power outlets draw
power from the vehicle’s battery, even when not in use
(i.e., cellular devices, etc.). Eventually, if plugged in long
enough without engine operation, the vehicle’s battery
will discharge sufficiently to degrade battery life and/or
prevent the engine from starting.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot engine coolant
(antifreeze) or steam from your radiator. If you see or
hear steam coming from under the hood, do not open the
hood until the radiator has had time to cool. Never try to
open a cooling system pressure cap when the radiator or
coolant bottle is hot.6
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506 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic converter
will not require maintenance. However, it is important to
keep the engine properly tuned to assure proper catalyst
operation and prevent possible catalyst damage.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control systems can
result in civil penalties being assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe and
abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop the
vehicle, turn off the engine and allow it to cool. Service,
including a tune-up to manufacturer's specifications, should
be obtained immediately.To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter damage:
• Do not interrupt the ignition when the transmission is in
gear and the vehicle is in motion.
• Do not try to start the vehicle by pushing or towing the vehicle.
• Do not idle the engine with any ignition components disconnected or removed, such as when diagnostic testing,
or for prolonged periods during very rough idle or
malfunctioning operating conditions.Cooling System
• Damage to the catalytic converter can result if yourvehicle is not kept in proper operating condition. In the
event of engine malfunction, particularly involving
engine misfire or other apparent loss of performance,
have your vehicle serviced promptly. Continued opera -
tion of your vehicle with a severe malfunction could
cause the converter to overheat, resulting in possible
damage to the converter and vehicle. CAUTION!
(Continued)
WARNING!
• You or others can be badly burned by hot engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from your radiator. If you
see or hear steam coming from under the hood, do not
open the hood until the radiator has had time to cool.
Never open a cooling system pressure cap when the
radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
• Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry away from the radiator cooling fan when the hood is raised. The fan
starts automatically and may start at any time, whether
the engine is running or not.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 507
Engine Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every
12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where
applicable). If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty
in appearance, the system should be drained, flushed and
refilled with fresh coolant. Check the front of the A/C
condenser (if equipped) or radiator for any accumulation of
bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently spraying water
from a garden hose vertically down the face of the A/C
condenser (if equipped) or the back of the radiator core.
Check the engine cooling system hoses for brittle rubber,
cracking, tears, cuts and tightness of the connection at the
coolant recovery bottle and radiator. Inspect the entire
system for leaks.
DO NOT REMOVE THE COOLANT PRESSURE CAP
WHEN THE COOLING SYSTEM IS HOT. Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE:
Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant properly.
Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to severe
internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to be added
to the system please contact an authorized dealer.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or contains visible
sediment, have an authorized dealer clean and flush with
OAT coolant (antifreeze) (conforming to MS.90032).
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Selection Of Coolant
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica
-
tions” for further information.
NOTE:
• Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than specified Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant (anti -
freeze), may result in engine damage and may decrease
corrosion protection. Organic Additive Technology (OAT)
engine coolant is different and should not be mixed with
Hybrid Organic Additive Technology (HOAT) engine
coolant (antifreeze) or any “globally compatible” coolant
• When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon
-
nect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition to the OFF
mode. The fan is temperature controlled and can start at
any time the ignition is in the ON mode.
WARNING! (Continued)
7
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 509
NOTE:
• It is the owner's responsibility to maintain the proper levelof protection against freezing according to the tempera -
tures occurring in the area where the vehicle is operated.
• Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant prop -
erly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to
severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to
be added to the system, please contact a local authorized
dealer.
• Mixing engine coolant (antifreeze) types is not recom -
mended and can result in cooling system damage. If
HOAT and OAT coolant are mixed in an emergency, have
a authorized dealer drain, flush, and refill with OAT
coolant (conforming to MS.90032) as soon as possible.
Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of engine
coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that engine coolant (anti -
freeze) will return to the radiator from the coolant expansion
bottle/recovery tank if so equipped.
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any accu-
mulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces. Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is a regu-
lated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your
local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your
community. To prevent ingestion by animals or children, do
not store ethylene glycol-based coolant in open containers or
allow it to remain in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a
child or pet, seek emergency assistance immediately. Clean
up any ground spills immediately.WARNING!
• Do not open hot engine cooling system. Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when the engine is over -
heated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to cool an over -
heated engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in the
cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury, do not
remove the pressure cap while the system is hot or
under pressure.
• Do not use a pressure cap other than the one specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine damage may
result.
7
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510 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Checking Coolant Level — 3.6L Engine
The level of the coolant in the pressurized coolant bottle
should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” range on the
bottle when the engine is cold.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is no
need to remove the cap unless checking for coolant freeze
point or replacing engine coolant (antifreeze). Advise your
service attendant of this. As long as the engine operating
temperature is satisfactory, the coolant bottle need only be
checked once a month. When additional engine coolant
(antifreeze) is needed to maintain the proper level, it should
be added to the coolant bottle. Do not overfill.Checking Coolant Level — 5.7L Engines
With the engine OFF and cold, the level of the engine coolant
should be between the ADD and SAFE range on the dipstick.
To check the coolant level:
1. Open the coolant reservoir.
Opening The Coolant Reservoir
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 511
2. Lift and remove the plastic dipstick from the reservoirneck.
Coolant Reservoir Dipstick
3. Check the coolant level on the dipstick.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is no
need to remove the radiator cap unless checking for engine
coolant (antifreeze) freeze point or replacing engine coolant
(antifreeze). Advise your service attendant of this. As long as
the engine operating temperature is satisfactory, the coolant
bottle need only be checked once a month. 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 mois
-
ture from rain, snow, or high humidity accumulating on the
radiator and being vaporized when the thermostat opens,
allowing hot engine coolant (antifreeze) 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.
7
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512 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions arerequired, 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 protection of your
engine which contains aluminum components.
• 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 oper -
ation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the
correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsat -
isfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance, poor
gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically. Refer
to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper
maintenance intervals. Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under the hood service or immediately if
the brake system warning lamp indicates system failure.
If necessary, add fluid to bring level within the designated
marks on the side of the reservoir of the brake master
cylinder. Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area
before removing cap.
With disc brakes the fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in fluid
level may be caused by a leak and a system check should be
conducted.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica
-
tions” for further information.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly
a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding on
the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake
damage. You would not have your full braking capacity
in an emergency.
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658
Audio Systems (Radio) .......................................................... 557
Auto Down Power Windows .................................................. 95Auto Unlock, Doors ................................................................ 308
Automatic Door Locks ............................................................. 41
Automatic Headlights .............................................................. 70
Automatic High Beams ............................................................ 68
Automatic Tailgate Release ................................................... 107
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) ................................ 91
Automatic Transmission ................................................ 304, 514 Adding Fluid ....................................................................... 514Fluid And Filter Change .................................................... 514
Fluid Change........................................................................ 514
Fluid Level Check ....................................................... 513, 514
Fluid Type .................................................................... 513, 556
Special Additives................................................................. 514
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode ...................... 308
Auxiliary Driving Systems .................................................... 211
Axle Fluid......................................................................... 515, 556
Axle Lubrication...................................................................... 515 B
Back-Up .................................................................................... 396
Back-Up Camera ..................................................................... 396
Battery............................................................................... 181, 491 Charging System Light....................................................... 181
Keyless Key Fob Replacement ............................................ 21
Battery Saver Feature ............................................................... 73 Belts, Seat ..................................................................................286
Blind Spot Monitoring ............................................................ 211
Body Builders Guide ................................................................14
Body Mechanism Lubrication ...............................................502
B-Pillar Location ......................................................................521
Brake Assist System ................................................................200
Brake Control System .............................................................199
Brake Fluid .......................................................................512, 556
Brake System....................................................................512, 546 Fluid Check ..........................................................................512
Master Cylinder ...................................................................512Parking ..................................................................................297
Warning Light......................................................................179
Brake/Transmission Interlock ..............................................304
Bulb Replacement ...................................................................436
Bulbs, Light ......................................................................289, 436 C
Camera...................................................................................... 396
Camera, Rear....................................................................396, 398
Camper .....................................................................................146
Capacities, Fuel........................................................................553
Caps, Filler Oil (Engine) ..................................................................487, 493
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...............................................509
Car Washes ..............................................................................540
Carbon Monoxide Warning ...........................................286, 552
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659
Cargo Light ................................................................................ 72
Cellular Phone ......................................................................... 626
Center High Mounted Stop Light......................................... 443
Center Seat Storage Compartment ....................................... 118
Chart, Tire Sizing .................................................................... 517
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light) ........... 196
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety ........................................ 285
Checks, Safety .......................................................................... 285
Child Restraint ........................................................................ 265
Child Restraints Booster Seats ........................................................................ 269
Child Seat Installation ................................................ 278, 280
How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt ......................... 276Infant And Child Restraints .............................................. 266Locating The LATCH Anchorages ................................... 274
Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children ..................... 270Older Children And Child Restraints .............................. 268
Seating Positions ................................................................. 270
Clean Air Gasoline .................................................................. 549
Cleaning Wheels................................................................................... 535
Climate Control ......................................................................... 78 Automatic ............................................................................... 82
Manual .................................................................................... 78
Cold Weather Operation........................................................ 296
Compact Spare Tire ................................................................ 533 Contract, Service......................................................................654
Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) ..................................509
Cooling System ........................................................................506
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze) .............................................508
Coolant Level ...............................................................507, 510Cooling Capacity .................................................................553
Disposal Of Used Coolant..................................................509Drain, Flush, And Refill .....................................................507
Inspection ............................................................................. 510
Points To Remember ........................................................... 511Pressure Cap ........................................................................509Radiator Cap ........................................................................509Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze) .....................507, 553, 554
Corrosion Protection ...............................................................539
Cruise Control (Speed Control) ............................................340
Cruise Light .....................................................................193, 194
Cupholders...............................................................................126
Customer Assistance ..............................................................652
Cybersecurity ...........................................................................558 D
Daytime Running Lights ..........................................................67
Dealer Service ..........................................................................492
Defroster, Rear Window ..........................................................78
Defroster, Windshield ......................................................78, 287
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers ....................................................76
Diagnostic System, Onboard .................................................195
11
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666
R
Radial Ply Tires ....................................................................... 527
Radiator Cap (Coolant Pressure Cap).......................... 507, 509
Radio Operation ...................................................................... 626
Rain Sensitive Wiper System................................................... 77
Rear Axle (Differential) .......................................................... 515
Rear Camera ............................................................................ 398
Rear Cargo Area Utility Rails................................................ 144
Rear Cross Path ....................................................................... 216
Rear ParkSense System .......................................................... 361
Rear Window, Sliding .............................................................. 97
Reclining Rear Seats ................................................................. 45
Recreational Towing ............................................................... 422 Shifting Into Transfer Case Neutral (N) .......................... 424
Shifting Out Of Transfer Case Neutral (N) ..................... 426
Reformulated Gasoline .......................................................... 549
Refrigerant ............................................................................... 497
Release, Hood .......................................................................... 105
Release, Tailgate ...................................................................... 107
Reminder, Seat Belt................................................................. 236
Remote Keyless Entry .............................................................. 19 Panic Alarm ........................................................................... 20
Programming Additional Key Fobs ............................. 24, 31
Remote Starting Exit Remote Start Mode ....................................................... 29 Uconnect Customer Programmable
Features.................................................................569, 590, 612
Uconnect Settings ................................................569, 590, 612
Replacement Bulbs..................................................................436
Replacement Keys .....................................................................32
Replacement Tires ...................................................................530
Reporting Safety Defects ........................................................655
Restraints, Child ......................................................................265
Restraints, Head ........................................................................54 Rotation, Tires..........................................................................537 S
Safety Checks Inside Vehicle .................................................286
Safety Checks Outside Vehicle ..............................................289
Safety Defects, Reporting .......................................................655
Safety Information, Tire .........................................................516
Safety Tips ................................................................................285
Safety, Exhaust Gas.................................................................286
Schedule, Maintenance........................................................... 482
Seat Belt Reminder ..................................................................179
Seat Belts ...........................................................................236, 286 Adjustable Shoulder Belt....................................................241
Adjustable Upper Shoulder Anchorage...........................241
Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage...................241
Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) ................................244
Child Restraints ...................................................................265Energy Management Feature ............................................243
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 666