engine coolant RAM 1500 2023 Owners Manual

11
When the truck is used to carry a slide-in camper, the total cargo load of the truck consists
of the manufacturer’s camper weight figure, the weight of installed additional camper
equipment not included in the manufacturer’s camper weight figure, the weight of camper
cargo, and the weight of passengers in the camper. The total cargo load should not exceed
the truck’s cargo weight rating and the camper’s CG should fall within the truck’s
recommended CG zone when installed.
Secure loose items to prevent weight shifts that could affect the balance of your vehicle.
When the truck camper is loaded, drive to a scale and weigh the front and rear wheels
separately, to determine axle loads. Individual axle loads should not exceed either of the
Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR). The total of the axle loads should not exceed the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). If weight ratings are exceeded, move or remove items to
get the total weight below the ratings.
NOTE:These ratings are also provided on the Vehicle Certification Label located on the driver’s
side B-pillar. See Úpage 172 for more information.
For any additional instructions, please contact your conversion/camper manufacturer or
an authorized dealer.
VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS
SYMBOL GLOSSARY
Some car components have colored labels with symbols indicating precautions to be
observed when using this component. It is important to follow all warnings when operating
your vehicle. See below for the definition of each symbol
Úpage 107.
NOTE:Warning and Indicator lights are different based upon equipment options and current
vehicle status. Some telltales are optional and may not appear.
WARNING!
Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle could seriously affect its roadworthiness
and safety and may lead to a collision resulting in serious injury or death.
Red Warning Lights
Air Bag Warning Light
Úpage 108
Battery Charge Warning Light
Úpage 108
Brake Warning Light
Úpage 108
Door Open Warning Light
Úpage 108
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning Light
Úpage 109
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault Warning Light
Úpage 109
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
Úpage 109
1

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 11

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE59
AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL
(ATC) — I
F EQUIPPED
Automatic Operation

1. Push the AUTO button on the faceplate, or the AUTO
button on the touchscreen on the Automatic
Temperature Control (ATC) Panel.

2. Next, adjust the temperature that you would like the system to maintain by adjusting the driver and
passenger temperature control buttons. Once the
desired temperature is displayed, the system will
achieve and automatically maintain that
temperature.
3. When the system is set up for your comfort level, it is not necessary to change the settings. You will
experience the greatest efficiency by simply allowing
the system to function automatically.
NOTE:
It is not necessary to move the temperature settings for
cold or hot vehicles. The system automatically adjusts
the temperature, mode, and blower speed to provide
comfort as quickly as possible.
 The temperature can be displayed in US or Metric units
by selecting the US/Metric customer-programmable
feature within Uconnect Settings
Úpage 191.
To provide you with maximum comfort in the Automatic
mode during cold start-ups, the blower fan will remain on
low until the engine warms up. The blower will increase in
speed and transition into Auto mode.
Manual Operation Override
This system offers a full complement of manual override
features. The AUTO symbol in the front ATC display will be
turned off when the system is being used in the manual
mode.
CLIMATE VOICE RECOGNITION —
I
F EQUIPPED
Adjust vehicle temperatures hands-free and keep
everyone comfortable while you keep moving ahead.
Push the VR button on the steering wheel. After the beep,
say one of the following commands:
 “Set driver temperature to 70 degrees”
 “Set passenger temperature to 70 degrees”
Did you know: Voice Command for Climate may only be
used to adjust the interior temperature of your vehicle.
Voice Command will not work to adjust the heated seats
or steering wheel if equipped.
OPERATING TIPS
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
performance, 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
For information on maintaining the Climate Control system
when the vehicle is being stored for an extended period of
time, see
Úpage 387.
Window Fogging
Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in mild, rainy,
and/or humid weather. To clear the windows, select
Defrost 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.
Outside Air Intake
Make sure the air intake, located directly in front of the
windshield, is free of obstructions, such as leaves. Leaves
collected in the air intake may reduce airflow, and if they
enter the air distribution box, they could plug the water
drains. In Winter months, make sure the air intake is clear
of ice, slush, and snow.
Cabin Air Filter
The Climate Control system filters out dust and pollen
from the air. Contact an authorized dealer to service your
cabin air filter, and to have it replaced when needed.
2

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 59

94GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
MIDLINE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
D
ESCRIPTIONS — GASOLINE

1. Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM x 1000).
2. Voltmeter When the vehicle is in the RUN state, the gauge
indicates the electrical system voltage. The
pointer should stay within the normal range if the
battery is charged. If the pointer moves to either
extreme left or right and remains there during
normal driving, the electrical system should be
serviced.
NOTE:In vehicles equipped with Stop/Start, a reduced voltage
may be present during an Autostop.
3. Instrument Cluster Display
When the appropriate conditions exist, this display
shows the instrument cluster display messages
Úpage 98.
 The display always shows one of the main menu
items after ignition on. 4. Oil Pressure Gauge
The pointer should always indicate the oil pres -
sure when the engine is running. A continuous
high or low reading under normal driving condi -
tions may indicate a lubrication system malfunc -
tion. Immediate service should be obtained from
an authorized dealer.
NOTE:In vehicles equipped with Stop/Start, an oil pressure indi -
cation of zero is normal during an Autostop.
5. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
6. Temperature Gauge The pointer shows engine coolant temperature.
The pointer positioned within the normal range
indicates that the engine cooling system is oper -
ating satisfactorily.
 The pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera -
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain
grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be
allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal
operating range. 7. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank
when the ignition is in the ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to the
side of the vehicle where the fuel door
is located.
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
Úpage 350.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads “H,” pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air
conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into
the normal range. If the pointer remains on the “H,”
turn the engine off immediately and call an authorized
dealer for service.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 94

96GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
HIGHLINE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
D
ESCRIPTIONS — GASOLINE

1. Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM x 1000).
2. Instrument Cluster Display When the appropriate conditions exist, this display
shows the instrument cluster display messages
Úpage 98.
 The display always shows one of the main menu
items after ignition on.
3. Speedometer Indicates vehicle speed. 4. Temperature Gauge
The pointer shows engine coolant temperature.
The pointer positioned within the normal range
indicates that the engine cooling system is oper -
ating satisfactorily.
 The pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera -
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain
grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be
allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal
operating range. 5. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank
when the ignition is in the ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to the
side of the vehicle where the fuel door
is located.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
Úpage 350.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads “H,” pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air
conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into
the normal range. If the pointer remains on the “H,”
turn the engine off immediately and call an authorized
dealer for service.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 96

98GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
PREMIUM INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
D
ESCRIPTIONS — GASOLINE

1. Temperature Gauge

The temperature gauge shows engine coolant
temperature. Any reading within 203°F - 230°F
(95°C - 110°C) indicates that the engine cooling
system is operating satisfactorily.
 The pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera -
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain
grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be
allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal
operating range. 2. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
3. Fuel Gauge The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank
when the Keyless Push Button Ignition is in the
ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to the
side of the vehicle where the fuel door
is located.
4. Tachometer Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM x 1000).
5. Instrument Cluster Display The instrument cluster display features a driver
interactive display
Úpage 98.
NOTE:The hard telltales will illuminate for a bulb check when the
ignition is first cycled.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
Depending on your vehicles trim level, features and
options may vary.
Your vehicle will be equipped with an instrument cluster
display, which offers useful information to the driver. With
the ignition in the OFF mode, opening/closing of a door will
activate the display for viewing, and display the total miles,
or kilometers, in the odometer. Your instrument cluster
display is designed to display important information about
your vehicle’s systems and features. Using a driver interactive display located on the
instrument panel, your instrument cluster display can
show you how systems are working and give you warnings
when they are not. The steering wheel mounted controls
allow you to scroll through the main menus and
submenus. You can access the specific information you
want and make selections and adjustments.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
L
OCATION AND CONTROLS

Instrument Cluster Display/Controls Location

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
Úpage 350.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads “H,” pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air
conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into
the normal range. If the pointer remains on the “H,”
turn the engine off immediately and call an authorized
dealer for service.1 — Instrument Cluster Display Screen
2 — Instrument Cluster Display Controls

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 98

102GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
LaneSense — If Equipped
The instrument cluster display displays the current
LaneSense system settings. The information displayed
depends on LaneSense system status and the conditions
that need to be met
Úpage 116.
Vehicle Info
Push and release the up or down arrow button until
the Vehicle Info menu icon is displayed in the instrument
cluster display. Push and release the left or right
arrow button to scroll through the information submenus
and push and release the OK button to select or reset the
resettable submenus.
BASE AND MIDLINE CLUSTER
 Tire Pressure Monitor System
 Air Suspension — If Equipped
 Coolant Temperature — If Equipped
 Trans Temperature
 Oil Temperature
 Oil Pressure — If Equipped
 Oil Life
 Battery Voltage — If Equipped
 Gauge Summary — If Equipped
 Coolant Temp
 Trans Temp
 Oil Temp
 Oil Pressure
 Engine Hours — If Equipped
PREMIUM CLUSTER
Fuel Economy
 Average
 Current
 Range to Empty
 Gauge Summary
 Coolant Temperature — If Equipped
 Battery Voltage — If Equipped
 Trans Temperature
 Oil Summary
 Oil Temperature
 Oil Life
 Oil Pressure — If Equipped
 Tire Pressure Monitor System
 Stop/Start — If Equipped
 Air Suspension Status — If Equipped
 Engine Hours — If Equipped
Off Road – If Equipped
Push and release the up or down arrow button
until the Off Road menu icon is displayed in the instrument
cluster display. Push and release the left or right
arrow button to scroll through the information submenus. 
Vehicle Dynamics
 Front Wheel Angle: displays the graphical and
numerical value of calculated average front wheel
angle from the steering wheel orientation.
 Transfer Case Lock Status: displays “Lock”
graphic only during 4WD High, 4WD Auto, 4WD
Low status.
 Axle Lock And Sway Bar Status (If Equipped):
displays front and rear or rear only axle locker
graphic, and sway bar connection graphic with text
message (connected or disconnected).
 Pitch And Roll
 Displays the pitch and roll of the vehicle in the
graphic with the angle number on the screen.
NOTE:When vehicle speed becomes too high to display the pitch
and roll, “- -” will display in place of the numbers, and the
graphic will be grayed out. A message indicating the
necessary speed for the feature to become available will
also display.
Fuel Economy
Push and release the up or down arrow button until
the Fuel Economy menu item is highlighted in the
instrument cluster display. Push and hold the OK button to
reset Average Fuel Economy.
 Current Fuel Economy
 Average Fuel Economy
 Range To Empty

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 102

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL109
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault
Warning Light
This warning light will turn on when there's a
fault with the EPS system Úpage 141.
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning
Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
problem with the ETC system. If a problem is
detected while the vehicle is running, the light
will either stay on or flash depending on the
nature of the problem. Cycle the ignition when the vehicle
is safely and completely stopped and the transmission is
placed in the PARK position. The light should turn off. If the
light remains on with the vehicle running, your vehicle will
usually be drivable; however, see an authorized dealer for
service as soon as possible.
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.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
Light
This warning light warns of an overheated
engine condition. If the engine coolant
temperature is too high, this indicator will
illuminate and a single chime will sound. If the
temperature reaches the upper limit, a continuous chime
will sound for four minutes or until the engine is able to
cool, whichever comes first.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over and stop
the vehicle. If the Air Conditioning (A/C) system is on, turn
it off. Also, shift the transmission into NEUTRAL (N) and
idle the vehicle. If the temperature reading does not return
to normal, turn the engine off immediately and call for
service
Úpage 327.
Hood Open Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the hood
is ajar/open and not fully closed.
NOTE:If the vehicle is moving, there will also be a single chime.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate, and a chime
will sound, to indicate low engine oil pressure.
If the light and chime turn on while driving,
safely stop the vehicle and turn off the engine
as soon as possible. After the vehicle is safely stopped,
restart the engine and monitor the Oil Pressure Warning
Light. If the Oil Pressure Warning Light is still illuminated,
turn the engine OFF and contact an authorized dealer for
further assistance. Do not operate the vehicle until the
cause is corrected. If the light is no longer illuminated, the
engine can be operated but it is recommended to take the
vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected.
This light does not indicate how much oil is in the engine.
The engine oil level must be checked under the hood.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose a
safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be
obtained as soon as possible.3

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 109

STARTING AND OPERATING121
(Continued)
IF ENGINE FAILS TO START
If the engine fails to start after you have followed the
“Normal Starting” procedure and the vehicle has not
experienced an Extended Park condition as defined
above, it may be flooded. Push the accelerator pedal all
the way to the floor and hold it there while the engine is
cranking. This should clear any excess fuel in case the
engine is flooded.
The starter motor will engage automatically, run for 10
seconds, and then disengage. Once this occurs, release
the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal, wait 10 to 15
seconds, then repeat the “Normal Starting” procedure.
If the engine has been flooded, it may start to run, but not
have enough power to continue running when the ignition
button/key is released. If this occurs, continue cranking
with the accelerator pedal pushed all the way to the floor.
Release the accelerator pedal and the ignition button/key
once the engine is running smoothly.
If the engine shows no sign of starting after a 10 second
period of engine cranking with the accelerator pedal held
to the floor, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the
“Normal Starting” procedure.
AFTER STARTING
The idle speed is controlled automatically, and it will
decrease as the engine warms up.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED

Engine Block Heater Cord Location

The engine block heater warms engine coolant and
permits quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the heater
cord to a ground-fault interrupter protected 110–115 Volt
AC electrical outlet with a grounded, three-wire extension
cord.
To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of
an externally powered electric engine block heater
(available from an authorized dealer) is recommended.
The engine block heater cord is routed under the hood on
the passenger side of the vehicle next to the engine
coolant reservoir.
WARNING!
Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the
throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start
the vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing
serious personal injury.
 Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it
started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans -
mission cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel
could enter the catalytic converter and once the
engine has started, ignite and damage the converter
and vehicle.
 If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster
cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster
battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type of
start can be dangerous if done improperly
Úpage 325.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank the
engine for more than 10 seconds at a time.
Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.
WARNING!
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the engine block heater cord
before driving. Damage to the 110-115 Volt electrical
cord could cause electrocution.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 121

SAFETY313
(Continued)
Lights
Have someone observe the operation of brake lights and
exterior lights while you work the controls. Check turn
signal and high beam indicator lights on the instrument
panel.
Door Latches
Check for proper closing, latching, and locking.
Fluid Leaks
Check area under the vehicle after overnight parking for
fuel, coolant, oil, or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline
fumes are detected or if fuel or brake fluid leaks are
suspected, the cause should be located and corrected
immediately.
EXHAUST GAS
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into
the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust
system.
Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the exhaust
system, when exhaust fumes can be detected inside the
vehicle, or when the underside or rear of the vehicle is
damaged, have an authorized dealer inspect the complete
exhaust system and adjacent body areas for broken,
damaged, deteriorated, or mispositioned parts. Open
seams or loose connections could permit exhaust fumes
to seep into the passenger compartment. In addition,
inspect the exhaust system each time the vehicle is raised
for lubrication or oil change. Replace as required.
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNINGS
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon
monoxide (CO), which is colorless and odorless.
Breathing it can make you unconscious and can
eventually poison you. To avoid breathing (CO), follow
these safety tips:
Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in
confined areas any longer than needed to move your
vehicle in or out of the area.
If you are required to drive with the trunk/liftgate/
rear doors open, make sure that all windows are
closed and the climate control BLOWER switch is set
at high speed. DO NOT use the recirculation mode.
 If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running, adjust your heating or cooling
controls to force outside air into the vehicle. Set the
blower at high speed.
WARNING!
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is deadly.
Follow the precautions below to prevent carbon
monoxide poisoning:
Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain carbon
monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, which can
kill. Never run the engine in a closed area, such as a
garage, and never sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running for an extended period. If the vehicle
is stopped in an open area with the engine running
for more than a short period, adjust the ventilation
system to force fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
 Guard against carbon monoxide with proper mainte -
nance. Have the exhaust system inspected every
time the vehicle is raised. Have any abnormal condi -
tions repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive with all
side windows fully open.
6

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 313

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY327
(Continued)

Fuel Funnel Location

NOTE:
In certain cold conditions, ice may prevent the fuel door
from opening. If this occurs, lightly push on the fuel door
to break the ice buildup and re-release the fuel door using
the inside release button. Do not pry on the door.
Emergency Gas Can Refueling:
Most gas cans will not open the flapper doors. A funnel is
provided to allow emergency refueling with a gas can.
See the following steps for refueling:

1. Retrieve funnel from under the passenger’s front seat.

2. Insert funnel into same filler pipe opening as the fuel nozzle.

Inserting Funnel

3. Ensure funnel is inserted fully to hold flapper doors open.
4. Pour fuel into funnel opening.
5. Remove funnel from filler pipe, clean off prior to putting back in the spare tire storage area.IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
If the vehicle is overheating, it will need to be serviced by
an authorized dealer.
Potential signs of vehicle overheating:
Temperature gauge is at HOT (H)
 Strong smell of coolant
 White smoke coming from engine or exhaust
 Coolant bottle coolant has bubbles present
CAUTION!
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not “top off” the
fuel tank after filling.
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or near the
vehicle when the fuel door is open or the tank is
being filled.
Never add fuel when the engine is running. This is in
violation of most state and federal fire regulations
and may cause the Malfunction Indicator Light to
turn on.
 A fire may result if fuel is pumped into a portable
container that is inside of a vehicle. You could be
burned. Always place fuel containers on the ground
while filling.
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.
WARNING!
7

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 327