ignition RAM 1500 2023 Owners Manual

SAFETY311
SAFETY TIPS
TRANSPORTING PASSENGERS
NEVER TRANSPORT PASSENGERS IN THE CARGO AREA.
TRANSPORTING PETS
Air Bags deploying in the front seat could harm your pet.
An unrestrained pet will be thrown about and possibly
injured, or injure a passenger during panic braking or in a
collision.
Pets should be restrained in the rear seat (if equipped)
in pet harnesses or pet carriers that are secured by
seat belts.
CONNECTED VEHICLES
Privacy of any wireless and wired communications cannot
be assured. Third parties may unlawfully intercept
information and private communications without your
consent. For further information, refer to “Data Collection
& Privacy” in your Uconnect Radio Instruction Manual or
“Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) Cybersecurity”
Úpage 116.
SAFETY CHECKS YOU SHOULD MAKE
I
NSIDE THE VEHICLE
Seat Belts
Inspect the seat belt system periodically, checking for
cuts, frays, and loose parts. Damaged parts must be
replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the
system. If your vehicle is involved in a collision, or if you have
questions regarding the seat belt or retractor conditions,
take your vehicle to an authorized FCA dealer or
authorized FCA Certified Collision Care Program facility for
inspection.
Air Bag Warning Light
The Air Bag Warning Light will turn on for four to
eight seconds as a bulb check when the
ignition switch is first placed in 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. After the bulb check, this light will illuminate with
a single chime when a fault with the Air Bag System has
been detected. It will stay on until the fault is removed.
If the light comes on intermittently or remains on while
driving, have an authorized dealer service the vehicle
immediately.
See
Úpage 282 for further information.
Defroster
Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should be able to
feel the air directed against the windshield. See an
authorized dealer for service if your defroster is
inoperable.
WARNING!
 Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehi -
cles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause
serious injury or death.
 It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area,
inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people
riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously
injured or killed.
 Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle
that is not equipped with seats and seat belts.
 Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and
using a seat belt properly.
WARNING!
It is not possible to know or to predict all of the possible
outcomes if your vehicle’s systems are breached. It may
be possible that vehicle systems, including safety
related systems, could be impaired or a loss of vehicle
control could occur that may result in an accident
involving serious injury or death.
6

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314
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS
The Hazard Warning Flashers button is located on the
upper switch bank just below the radio.

Hazard Warning Flashers Button
Hazard Warning Flashers Button
NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with a 12–inch Uconnect
display, the Hazard Warning Flashers button is located
above the display.

Hazard Warning Flashers Button with 12-inch display

Push the button to turn on the Hazard Warning Flashers.
When the button is activated, all directional turn signals
will flash on and off to warn oncoming traffic of an
emergency. Push the button a second time to turn off the
Hazard Warning Flashers.
This is an emergency warning system and it should not be
used when the vehicle is in motion. Use only when your
vehicle is disabled or signaling a safety hazard warning for
other motorists.
When leaving the vehicle to seek assistance, the Hazard
Warning Flashers will continue to operate even though the
ignition is placed in the OFF position.
NOTE:With extended use the Hazard Warning Flashers may wear
down your battery.
ASSIST AND SOS SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

ASSIST And SOS Buttons

If equipped, the overhead console contains an ASSIST and
a SOS button.
1 — ASSIST Button
2 — SOS Button

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316IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
(Continued)
SOS Call System Limitations
Vehicles sold in Mexico
DO NOT have SOS Call system
capabilities.
SOS or other emergency line operators in Mexico may not
answer or respond to SOS system calls.
If the SOS Call system detects a malfunction, any of the
following may occur at the time the malfunction is
detected, and at the beginning of each ignition cycle:
 The overhead console lights located within the ASSIST
and SOS buttons will continuously illuminate red.
 The Device Screen will display the following message:
“Vehicle device requires service. Please contact an
authorized dealer.”
 Where applicable, an In-Vehicle Audio message will
state “Vehicle device requires service. Please contact
an authorized dealer.” Even if the SOS Call system is fully functional, factors
beyond FCA US LLC’s control may prevent or stop the SOS
Call system operation. These include, but are not limited
to, the following factors:

The ignition is in the OFF position
 The vehicle’s electrical systems are not intact
 The SOS Call system software and/or hardware are
damaged during a crash
 The vehicle battery loses power or becomes
disconnected during a vehicle crash
 LTE (voice/data) or 4G (data) network and/or Global
Positioning Satellite signals are unavailable or
obstructed
 Equipment malfunction at the SOS operator facility
 Operator error by the SOS operator
 LTE (voice/data) or 4G (data) network congestion
 Weather
 Buildings, structures, geographic terrain, or tunnels
WARNING!
If anyone in the vehicle could be in danger (e.g., fire
or smoke is visible, dangerous road conditions or
location), do not wait for voice contact from an Emer -
gency Services Agent. All occupants should exit the
vehicle immediately and move to a safe location.
 Never place anything on or near the vehicle’s oper -
able network and GPS antennas. You could prevent
operable network and GPS signal reception, which
can prevent your vehicle from placing an emergency
call. An operable network and GPS signal reception is
required for the SOS Call system to function properly.
 The SOS Call system is embedded into the vehicle’s
electrical system. Do not add aftermarket electrical
equipment to the vehicle’s electrical system. This
may prevent your vehicle from sending a signal to
initiate an emergency call. To avoid interference that
can cause the SOS Call system to fail, never add
aftermarket equipment (e.g., two-way mobile radio,
CB radio, data recorder, etc.) to your vehicle’s elec -
trical system or modify the antennas on your vehicle.
IF YOUR VEHICLE LOSES BATTERY POWER FOR ANY
REASON (INCLUDING DURING OR AFTER AN ACCI -
DENT), THE UCONNECT FEATURES, APPS AND
SERVICES, AMONG OTHERS, WILL NOT OPERATE.
 Modifications to any part of the SOS Call system
could cause the air bag system to fail when you need
it. You could be injured if the air bag system is not
there to help protect you.
WARNING!
Ignoring the overhead console light could mean you
will not have SOS Call services. If the overhead
console light is illuminated and no SOS call placed,
have an authorized dealer service the SOS Call
system immediately.
The Occupant Restraint Control module turns on the
air bag Warning Light on the instrument panel if a
malfunction in any part of the system is detected.
If the Air Bag Warning Light is illuminated, have an
authorized dealer service the Occupant Restraint
Control system immediately.
WARNING!

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY317
NOTE:
Your vehicle may be transmitting data as authorized by
the subscriber.
 Never place anything on or near the vehicle’s LTE
(voice/data) or 4G (data) and GPS antennas. You could
prevent LTE (voice/data) or 4G (data) and GPS signal
reception, which can prevent your vehicle from placing
an emergency call. An operable LTE (voice/data) or 4G
(data) network connection and a GPS signal is required
for the SOS Call system to function properly.
NOTE:Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment.
Automatic SOS — If Equipped
Automatic SOS is a hands-free safety service that can
immediately connect you with help in the event that your
vehicle’s airbags deploy. Please refer to your provided
radio supplement for complete information.
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING
Use this QR code to access your digital
experience. NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with an air suspension system,
there is a feature which allows the automatic leveling to be
disabled to assist with changing a tire. This feature can be
activated through the Uconnect system
Úpage 209.
PREPARATIONS FOR JACKING
NOTE:If your vehicle is equipped with Air Suspension, you will
need to enable Tire Jack Mode in the Uconnect system
before changing the tire
Úpage 134.

1. Park on a firm, level surface. Avoid ice or slippery areas.

2. Turn on the Hazard Warning Flashers.
3. Apply the parking brake.
4. Shift the transmission into PARK (P).
5. Turn the ignition OFF.
WARNING!
 Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of the
vehicle close to moving traffic. Pull far enough off the
road to avoid the danger of being hit when operating
the jack or changing the wheel.
 Being under a jacked-up vehicle is dangerous. The
vehicle could slip off the jack and fall on you. You
could be crushed. Never put any part of your body
under a vehicle that is on a jack. If you need to get
under a raised vehicle, take it to a service center
where it can be raised on a lift.
 Never start or run the engine while the vehicle is on
a jack.
 The jack is designed to be used as a tool for changing
tires only. The jack should not be used to lift the
vehicle for service purposes. The vehicle should be
jacked on a firm level surface only. Avoid ice or slip -
pery areas.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of the
vehicle close to moving traffic. Pull far enough off the
road to avoid being hit when operating the jack or
changing the wheel.
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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY325
JUMP STARTING
If your vehicle has a discharged battery, it can be jump
started using a set of jumper cables and a battery in
another vehicle, or by using a portable battery booster
pack. Jump starting can be dangerous if done improperly,
so please follow the procedures in this section carefully.
NOTE:When using a portable battery booster pack, follow the
manufacturer's operating instructions and precautions.
PREPARATIONS FOR JUMP START
The battery in your vehicle is located in the front of the
engine compartment, behind the left headlight assembly.

Positive (+) Battery Post Location

NOTE:
The positive battery post may be covered with a protective
cap. Lift up on the cap to gain access to the positive
battery post. Do not jump off fuses. Only jump directly off
positive post which has a positive (+) symbol on or around
the post.
See the following steps to prepare for jump starting:

1. Shift the automatic transmission into PARK, apply the parking brake and turn the ignition OFF.

2. Turn off the heater, radio, and all electrical accessories.
3. If using another vehicle to jump start the battery, park the vehicle within the jumper cables’ reach, apply the
parking brake and make sure the ignition is OFF. 4. Pull upward and remove the protective cover over the
positive (+) battery post.
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE
WARNING!
Do not attempt jump starting if the battery is frozen. It
could rupture or explode and cause personal injury.
CAUTION!
Do not use a portable battery booster pack or any other
booster source with a system voltage greater than
12 Volts or damage to the battery, starter motor,
alternator or electrical system may occur.
WARNING!
Do not allow vehicles to touch each other as this could
establish a ground connection and personal injury
could result.
WARNING!
 Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan whenever
the hood is raised. It can start anytime the ignition
switch is ON. You can be injured by moving fan
blades.
 Remove any metal jewelry such as rings, watch
bands and bracelets that could make an inadvertent
electrical contact. You could be seriously injured.
 Batteries contain sulfuric acid that can burn your
skin or eyes and generate hydrogen gas which is
flammable and explosive. Keep open flames or
sparks away from the battery.
WARNING!
Failure to follow this jump starting procedure could
result in personal injury or property damage due to
battery explosion.
CAUTION!
Failure to follow these procedures could result in
damage to the charging system of the booster vehicle
or the discharged vehicle.
7

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY331
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
per FCA US LLC instructions. Use of safety chains is
mandatory. Attach a tow bar or other towing device to
main structural members of the vehicle, not to fascia/
bumpers or associated brackets. State and local laws
regarding vehicles under tow must be observed.
If you must use the accessories (wipers, defrosters, etc.)
while being towed, the ignition must be in the ON/RUN
mode, not the ACC mode.
If the key fob is unavailable or the vehicle's battery is
discharged, find Instructions on shifting the transmission
out of PARK in order to move the vehicle
Úpage 328.
TWO-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
FCA US LLC recommends towing your vehicle with all four
wheels OFF the ground using a flatbed.
If flatbed equipment is not available, and the transmission
is operable, the vehicle may be towed (with front wheels
on the ground) under the following conditions:
 The transmission must be in NEUTRAL (N). Instructions
on shifting the transmission to NEUTRAL (N) when the
engine is OFF
Úpage 328.
 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) and farther than 30 miles (48 km), tow with the rear wheels OFF the
ground. An acceptable method to tow the vehicle on a
flatbed are as follows:
 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.
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
FCA US LLC recommends towing with all wheels OFF the
ground.
CAUTION!
 Do not use sling type equipment when towing.
Vehicle damage may occur.
 When securing the vehicle to a flatbed truck, do not
attach to front or rear suspension components.
Damage to your vehicle may result from improper
towing.
CAUTION!
Towing this vehicle in violation of the approved
requirements can cause severe transmission damage.
Damage from improper towing is not covered under the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
Front or rear wheel lifts must not be used (if the
remaining wheels are on the ground). Internal
damage to the transmission or transfer case will
occur if a front or rear wheel lift is used when towing.
 Towing this vehicle in violation of the approved
requirements can cause severe transmission and/or
transfer case damage. Damage from improper
towing is not covered under the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
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344SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation
NOTE:Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is present
before replacing the engine air cleaner filter.

1. Install the engine air cleaner filter onto the engine
air cleaner filter assembly.

2. Install the engine air cleaner filter cover onto the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
3. Tighten the fasteners (four) on the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
4. Install the engine cover.
G/T AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE
Clean Engine Air Filter
The G/T air filter comes equipped with a unique filter
media which is washable. See the following cleaning
procedure to prolong the life of the air filter component.
For recommended cleaning/replacement intervals
Úpage 334.

1. Spray the air filter with the recommended Mopar® air filter cleaner or apply mild dishwashing detergent
and water and let sit for at least 10 minutes to
loosen dirt before rinsing.

NOTE:Never use strong detergents, high pressure, or gasoline on
the air filter.
2. Rinse the air filter with cool low-pressure water applied from the inside (clean side) out in order to
flush the dirt out of the filter. Continue to rinse the
filter until all traces of the cleaner have been
removed.
NOTE:It may be necessary to repeat steps 1 and 2 if the air filter
is not completely clean.
3. After rinsing the air filter, gently shake off the excess water and allow air filter to dry naturally.
NOTE:Do not use forced air pressure as it may damage the
filtering capabilities of the filter’s microfibers and also void
its warranty.
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.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling —
R–1234yf
R–1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a
Hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the
Environmental Protection Agency and is an ozone-friendly
substance with a low global-warming potential. It is
recommended that air conditioning service be performed
by an authorized dealer using recovery and recycling
equipment.
NOTE:Use only the manufacturer approved A/C system PAG
compressor oil, and refrigerants.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 334.
WARNING!
Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants
approved by the manufacturer for your air condi -
tioning system. Some unapproved refrigerants are
flammable and can explode, injuring you. Other
unapproved refrigerants or lubricants can cause the
system to fail, requiring costly repairs. Refer to
Warranty Information Book, for further warranty
information.
 The air conditioning system contains refrigerant
under high pressure. To avoid risk of personal injury
or damage to the system, adding refrigerant or any
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
conditioning components. Such damage is not covered
by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
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.

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346SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
6. Remove the cabin air filter by pulling it straight out of
the housing.

Cabin Air Filter

7. Install the cabin air filter with the arrow on the filter pointing toward the floor. When installing the filter
cover, press on each end until you hear an audible
click. 8. Reinstall the glove compartment on the hinges.
9. Pull the tension tether outward and reinstall the glove
compartment past the travel stops by pushing in on
the glove compartment sides.
Glove Compartment

NOTE:
Ensure the glove compartment door hinges and glove
compartment travel stops are fully engaged.
10. Reattach the glove compartment tension tether by inserting the tether clip in the glove compartment and
sliding the clip away from the face of the glove
compartment door.
ACCESSORY DRIVE BELT INSPECTION
When inspecting accessory drive belts, small cracks that
run across the ribbed surface of the belt from rib to rib, are
considered normal. This is not a reason to replace the belt.
However, cracks running along a rib (not across) are not
normal. CAUTION!
The cabin air filter is identified with an arrow to indicate
airflow direction through the filter. Failure to properly
install the filter will result in the need to replace it more
often.
1 — Glove Compartment Travel Stop
2 — Glove Compartment Tension Tether
3 — Glove Compartment Door
WARNING!
Do not attempt to inspect an accessory drive belt
with vehicle running.
 When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon -
nect the fan motor lead. The fan is temperature
controlled and can start at any time regardless of
ignition mode. You could be injured by the moving
fan blades.
 You can be badly injured working on or around a
motor vehicle. Only do service work for which you
have the knowledge and the proper equipment.
If you have any doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a competent
mechanic.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE349
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
Engine Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every
12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where
applicable). If the engine coolant 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 (conforming to MS.90032).
For the proper maintenance intervals
Úpage 334.
CAUTION!
The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded
fuel only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effective -
ness of the catalyst as an emissions control device
and may seriously reduce engine performance and
cause serious damage to the engine.
 Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your
vehicle 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 operation of your vehicle with a severe
malfunction could cause the converter to overheat,
resulting in possible damage to the converter and
vehicle.
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.
 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.
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354SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Drain And Refill
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 334.
Lubricant Selection
For further information Úpage 397.
NOTE:The presence of water in the gear lubricant will result in
corrosion and possible failure of differential components.
Operation of the vehicle in water, as may be encountered
in some off-highway types of service, will require draining
and refilling the axle to avoid damage.
Limited-Slip Differentials
Rear axles equipped with a Limited Slip Differential
require that 5 oz. (148 ml) Mopar® Limited Slip Additive
be added to the gear lubricant
Úpage 397. The Mopar®
Limited Slip Additive should be added to the gear lubricant
whenever a fluid change is made to an axle equipped with
a Limited Slip Differential.
NOTE:When refilling a limited slip differential axle which requires
a friction modification additive, the additive should be
added before the gear lubricant to ensure proper
additive fill.
TRANSFER CASE
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler plug.
The fluid level should be to the bottom edge of the filler
plug hole (or within 1/8 inch of the bottom) with the
vehicle in a level position.
Drain And Refill
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 334.
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer recommended fluid Úpage 397.
FUSES
General Information
WARNING!
 When replacing a blown fuse, always use an appro -
priate replacement fuse with the same amp rating as
the original fuse. Never replace a fuse with another
fuse of higher amp rating. The use of a fuse with a
rating other than indicated may result in a dangerous
electrical system overload. If a properly rated fuse
continues to blow, it indicates a problem in the circuit
that must be corrected. Never replace a blown fuse
with metal wires or any other material. Do not place
a fuse inside a circuit breaker cavity or vice versa.
Failure to use proper fuses may result in serious
personal injury, fire and/or property damage.
 Before replacing a fuse, make sure that the ignition
is off and that all the other services are switched off
and/or disengaged.
 If the replaced fuse blows again, contact an
authorized dealer.
 If a general protection fuse for safety systems (air
bag system, braking system), power unit systems
(engine system, transmission system) or steering
system blows, contact an authorized dealer.

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