cylinder Ram 2500 2017 Owner's Manual

The emergency key allows for entry into the vehicle should
the battery in the vehicle or the key fob go dead. You can
keep the emergency key with you when valet parking.
To remove the emergency key, slide the mechanical latch
on the backside of the key fob sideways with your thumb
and then pull the key out with your other hand.
NOTE:When using the emergency key to gain access to
your vehicle, be aware that the security alarm may be
triggered. Put the nose side (side opposite of the emer-
gency key) of the key fob against the ENGINE START/
STOP button and push to disarm the security system.
NOTE:You can insert the double-sided emergency key
into the door lock cylinder with either side up.
Key Fob Emergency Key
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Brake Warning Light
Red TelltaleLight What It Means
English
Metric
Brake Warning Light
This light monitors various brake functions, including brake fluid level and parking brake appli-
cation. If the brake light turns on it may indicate that the parking brake is applied, that the brake
fluid level is low, or that there is a problem with the anti-lock brake system reservoir.
If the light remains on when the parking brake has been disengaged, and the fluid level is at the
full mark on the master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a possible brake hydraulic system mal-
function or that a problem with the Brake Booster has been detected by the Anti-Lock Brake Sys-
tem (ABS) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. In this case, the light will remain on until
the condition has been corrected. If the problem is related to the Brake Booster, the ABS pump
will run when applying the brake, and a brake pedal pulsation may be felt during each stop.
NOTE:
Brake Warning Light may illuminate due to excessive wear to brake pads.
242 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capacity
in the event of a failure to a portion of the hydraulic
system. A leak in either half of the dual brake system is
indicated by the Brake Warning Light, which will turn on
when the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has
dropped below a specified level.
The light will remain on until the cause is corrected.
NOTE:The light may flash momentarily during sharp
cornering maneuvers, which change fluid level conditions.
The vehicle should have service performed, and the brake
fluid level checked.
If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is necessary.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is
dangerous. Part of the brake system may have failed. It
will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have a
collision. Have the vehicle checked immediately. Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD).
CAUTION!
In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning
Light will turn on along with the ABS Light. Immedi-
ate repair to the ABS system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by
placing the ignition in the ON/RUN position. The light
should illuminate for approximately two seconds. The light
should then turn off unless the parking brake is applied or
a brake fault is detected. If the light does not illuminate,
have the light inspected by an authorized dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking brake is
applied with the ignition placed in the ON/RUN position.
NOTE: This light shows only that the parking brake is
applied. It does not show the degree of brake application.4
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 243

Power Steering Fluid Check — 2500/3500 Models
Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined service
interval is not required. The fluid should only be checked
if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are apparent,
and/or the system is not functioning as anticipated. Coor-
dinate inspection efforts through an authorized dealer.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your power steering
system as the chemicals can damage your power steer-
ing components. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and
with the engine off to prevent injury from moving
parts and to ensure accurate fluid level reading. Do not
overfill. Use only manufacturer’s recommended power
steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all
surfaces. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts”
in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.
FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY 5.7L/6.4L ENGINES
ONLY — IF EQUIPPED
This feature offers improved fuel economy by shutting off
four of the engine’s eight cylinders during light load and
cruise conditions. The system is automatic with no driver
inputs or additional driving skills required.
NOTE: This system may take some time to return to full
functionality after a battery disconnect.
PARKING BRAKE
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking
brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to leave the trans-
mission in PARK.
The foot operated parking brake is located below the lower
left corner of the instrument panel. To apply the park
brake, firmly push the park brake pedal fully. To release the
parking brake, pull the parking brake release handle.
492 STARTING AND OPERATING

Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as
seat tracks, door hinge pivot points and rollers, liftgate,
tailgate, decklid, sliding doors and hood hinges, should be
lubricated periodically with a lithium based grease, such as
MOPAR Spray White Lube to assure quiet, easy operation
and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the applica-
tion of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be wiped
clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating excess oil
and grease should be removed. Particular attention should
also be given to hood latching components to ensure
proper function. When performing other underhood ser-
vices, the hood latch, release mechanism and safety catch
should be cleaned and lubricated.
The external lock cylinders should be lubricated twice a
year, preferably in the Fall and Spring. Apply a small
amount of a high quality lubricant, such as MOPAR Lock
Cylinder Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder.
Windshield Wiper Blades
Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the
windshield periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a
mild nonabrasive cleaner. This will remove accumulations
of salt or road film.
Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods may
cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use washer
fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt from a
dry windshield.
Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from
the windshield. Keep the blade rubber out of contact with
petroleum products such as engine oil, gasoline, etc.
NOTE:Life expectancy of wiper blades varies depending
on geographical area and frequency of use. Poor perfor-
mance of blades may be present with chattering, marks,
water lines or wet spots. If any of these conditions are
present, clean the wiper blades or replace as necessary.
656 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

•Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY
the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in
unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically. Refer
to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper maintenance
intervals.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possi-
bly 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.
Brake Fluid Level Check
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. The brake master cylinder has a translucent plastic reser-
voir. On the outboard side of the reservoir, there is a
“MAX” mark and a “MIN” mark. The fluid level must be
kept within these two marks. Do not add fluid above the
MAX mark because leakage may occur at the 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.
Use only the manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid.
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts” in “Main-
taining Your Vehicle” for further information.
WARNING!
•
Use only manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid.
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.
Using the wrong type of brake fluid can severely
damage your brake system and/or impair its perfor-
mance. The proper type of brake fluid for your
vehicle is also identified on the original factory
installed hydraulic master cylinder reservoir.
(Continued)
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 667

ComponentFluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Front and Rear Axle – 2500/3500 Models We recommend you use SAE 75W-85 HD Ram GL-5
Synthetic Axle Lubricant. Limited slip additive is not
required for Limited-Slip Rear Axles.
Brake Master Cylinder We recommend you use MOPAR DOT 3. If DOT 3 brake
fluid is not available, then DOT 4 is acceptable.
Power Steering Reservoir – 2500/3500 Models We recommend you use MOPAR Power Steering Fluid +4
or MOPAR ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid.
702 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:
•Check engine oil level
• Check windshield washer fluid level
• Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage. Rotate tires at the first sign of irregular wear,
even if it occurs before the oil indicator system turns on.
• Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, power steering (2500/3500 Models
Only) and automatic transmission (six-speed only) and
fill as needed
• Check function of all interior and exterior lights
Maintenance Chart
Required Maintenance
Refer to the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages
for required maintenance.
At Every Oil Change Interval As Indicated By Oil
Change Indicator System:
•Change oil and filter.
• Rotate the tires. Rotate at the first sign of irregular
wear, even if it occurs before the oil indicator
system turns on.
• Inspect battery and clean and tighten terminals as
required.
• Inspect automatic transmission fluid if equipped
with dipstick.
• Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, hoses and
park brake.
• Inspect engine cooling system protection and hoses.
• Inspect exhaust system.
• Inspect engine air cleaner if using in dusty or
off-road conditions.
• Lube the front drive shaft fitting (2500/3500 (4x4)
models only). 8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 705

Shifting........................... .395, 405
Special Additives ........................ .670
Axle Fluid ........................... .668, 701
Axle Lubrication .......................... .668
Back-Up Camera .......................... .171
Bar, Stabilizer/Sway System ...................455
Battery .............................. .245, 648
Charging System Light ....................245
Keyless Key Fob Replacement ................25
Belts, Seat .................................95
Body Builders Guide ..........................6
Body Mechanism Lubrication ..................656
B-Pillar Location .......................... .513
Brake Assist System ........................ .497
Brake Control System, Electronic ................495
Brake Fluid .......................... .667, 701
Brake System ......................... .494, 667
Fluid Check ........................... .667
Master Cylinder ........................ .667
Parking .............................. .492
Warning Light .......................... .242
Brake/Transmission Interlock ..................387
Bulb Replacement ...................... .688, 690Bulbs, Light
........................... .98, 688
Cab Top Clearance Lights .....................694
Camera, Rear ............................ .171
Camper ................................ .220
Capacities, Fluid .......................... .697
Caps, Filler Oil (Engine) ........................... .642
Power Steering ......................... .492
Radiator (Coolant Pressure) .................664
Carbon Monoxide Warning .................95, 545
Cargo Light ............................. .146
Car Washes .............................. .673
Center High Mounted Stop Light ...............693
Center

Seat Storage Compartment ...............195
Certification Label ......................... .549
Chart, Tire Sizing .......................... .509
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light). . . .637
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety ................94
Checks, Safety .............................94
Child Restraint .............................69
Child Restraints Booster Seats ............................73
Child Restraints ..........................69
Child Seat Installation ...................82, 85
10
INDEX 717