service Ram 3500 Chassis Cab 2020 Workshop Manual

STARTING AND OPERATING217

1. Stop the vehicle.

2. Shift the transmission into PARK, if
possible. If not, shift the transmission to
NEUTRAL.
3. Push and hold the ignition switch until the engine turns off.
4. Wait approximately 30 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no longer detected, the trans -
mission will return to normal operation.
NOTE:
Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit an authorized dealer
at your earliest possible convenience. An autho -
rized dealer has diagnostic equipment to
assess the condition of your transmission.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized
dealer service is required.Electronic Range Select (ERS) Operation
The Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control
allows the driver to limit the highest available
gear when the transmission is in DRIVE. For
example, if you set the transmission gear limit
to 4 (FOURTH gear), the transmission will not
shift above FOURTH gear (except to prevent
engine overspeed), but will shift through the
lower gears normally.
You can switch between DRIVE and ERS mode
at any vehicle speed. When the transmission
gear selector is in DRIVE, the transmission will
operate automatically, shifting between all
available gears. Tapping the GEAR – switch (on
the steering wheel) will activate ERS mode,
display the current gear in the instrument
cluster, and set that gear as the top available
gear. Once in ERS mode, tapping the GEAR – or
GEAR + switch will change the top available
gear.
ERS Control

To exit ERS mode, simply push and hold the
GEAR + switch until the gear limit display disap -
pears from the instrument cluster.
1 — GEAR + Switch
2 — GEAR – Switch
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine
braking on a slippery surface. The drive
wheels could lose their grip and the vehicle
could skid, causing a collision or personal
injury.
5

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 217

220STARTING AND OPERATING
This electronically shifted transfer case is
designed to be driven in the two–wheel drive
position (2WD) for normal street and highway
conditions on dry hard surfaced roads. Driving
the vehicle in 2WD will have greater fuel
economy benefits as the front axle is not
engaged in 2WD.
When additional traction is required, the
transfer case 4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW posi -
tions can be used to maximize torque to the
front driveshaft, forcing the front and rear
wheels to rotate at the same speed. This is
accomplished by pushing the desired position
on the 4WD control switch.
Refer to “Shifting Procedure” in this section for
specific shifting instructions.
The 4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW positions are
designed for loose, slippery road surfaces only.
Driving in the 4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW posi -
tions on dry hard surfaced roads may cause
increased tire wear and damage to the driveline
components. NOTE:
The transfer case Neutral button is located in
the center of the 4WD Control Switch and is
pushed by using a ballpoint pen or similar
object. The transfer case Neutral position is to
be used for recreational towing only. Refer to
“Recreational Towing” in “Starting And Oper
-
ating” for further information.
Transfer Case Position Indicator Lights
The Transfer Case Position Indicator Lights
(4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW) are located in the
instrument cluster and indicate the current and
desired transfer case selection. When you
select a different transfer case position, the
indicator lights will do the following:
If All Of The Following Shift Conditions Are Met:

1. The current position indicator light will turn off.

2. The selected position indicator light will flash until the transfer case completes the
shift.
3. When the shift is complete, the indicator light for the selected position will stop
flashing and remain on. If One Or More Of The Following Shift Conditions
Are Not Met:

1. The indicator light for the current position
will remain on.

2. The newly selected position indicator light will continue to flash.
3. The transfer case will not shift.
NOTE:
Before retrying a selection, make certain that all
the necessary requirements for selecting a new
transfer case position have been met. To retry
the selection, push the current position, wait
five seconds, and retry selection. To find the
shift requirements, refer to the “Shifting Proce-
dure” for your transfer case, located in this
section.
The “SVC 4WD Warning Light” monitors the
electronic shift four-wheel drive system. If this
light remains on after engine start up or illumi -
nates during driving, it means that the
four-wheel drive system is not functioning prop -
erly and that service is required.

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 220

224STARTING AND OPERATING
If All Of The Following Shift Conditions Are Met:

1. The current position indicator light will turn off.

2. The selected position indicator light will flash until the transfer case completes the
shift.
3. When the shift is complete, the indicator light for the selected position will stop
flashing and remain on.
If One Or More Of The Following Shift Conditions
Are Not Met:

1. The indicator light for the current position will remain on.

2. The newly selected position indicator light will continue to flash.
3. The transfer case will not shift.
NOTE:
Before retrying a selection, make certain that all
the necessary requirements for selecting a new
transfer case position have been met. To retry
the selection, turn the control switch back to the
current position, wait five seconds, and retry selection. To find the shift requirements, refer
to the "Shifting Procedure" for your transfer
case, located in this section.
The “SVC 4WD Warning Light” monitors the
electronic shift four-wheel drive system. If this
light remains on after engine start up or illumi
-
nates during driving, it means that the
four-wheel drive system is not functioning prop -
erly and that service is required.
NOTE:
Do not attempt to make a shift while only the
front or rear wheels are spinning, as this can
cause damage to driveline components.
When operating your vehicle in 4WD LOW, the
engine speed is approximately three times that
of the 2WD or 4WD HIGH positions at a given
road speed. Take care not to overspeed the
engine and do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h). Proper operation of four-wheel drive vehicles
depends on tires of equal size, type and circum
-
ference on each wheel. Any difference in tire
size can cause damage to the drivetrain.
Because four-wheel drive provides improved
traction, there is a tendency to exceed safe
turning and stopping speeds. Do not go faster
than road conditions permit.
Shifting Procedure
NOTE:
If any of the requirements to select a new
transfer case position have not been met, the
transfer case will not shift. The position indi -
cator light for the previous position will
remain ON and the newly selected position
indicator light will continue to flash until all
the requirements for the selected position
have been met. To retry a shift: return the
control switch back to the original position,
make certain all shift requirements have
been met, wait five seconds and try the shift
again.
WARNING!
Always engage the parking brake when
powering down the vehicle if the “SVC 4WD
Warning Light” is illuminated. Not engaging
the parking brake may allow the vehicle to
roll, which may cause personal injury.

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 224

STARTING AND OPERATING229
POWER STEERING
Hydraulic Power Steering
The standard power steering system will give
you good vehicle response and increased ease
of maneuverability in tight spaces. The system
will provide mechanical steering capability if
power assist is lost.
If for some reason the power assist is inter -
rupted, it will still be possible to steer your
vehicle. Under these conditions, you will
observe a substantial increase in steering
effort, especially at very low vehicle speeds and
during parking maneuvers.
NOTE:
Increased noise levels at the end of the
steering wheel travel are considered normal
and do not indicate that there is a problem
with the power steering system.
Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the
power steering pump may make noise for a
short amount of time. This is due to the cold,
thick fluid in the steering system. This noise
should be considered normal, and it does not
in any way damage the steering system.
Power Steering Fluid Check
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. Check
fluid level when the engine is cold and off. Coor -
dinate inspection efforts through an authorized
dealer. 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
And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”
for further information.
CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system at
the end of the steering wheel travel will
increase the steering fluid temperature and it
should be avoided when possible. Damage to
the power steering pump may occur.
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.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your power
steering system as the chemicals can
damage your power steering components.
Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.5

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 229

STARTING AND OPERATING241
Installing a snow plow, front-end protector,
an aftermarket grille or modifying the grille is
not recommended. Doing so may block the
sensor and inhibit ACC/FCW operation.
“Clean Front Windshield” Warning
The “ACC/FCW Limited Functionality Clean
Front Windshield” warning will display and also
a chime will indicate when conditions tempo -
rarily limit system performance. This most often
occurs at times of poor visibility, such as in
snow or heavy rain and fog. The ACC system
may also become temporarily blinded due to
obstructions, such as mud, dirt, or ice on wind -
shield, driving directly into the sun and fog on
the inside of glass. In these cases, the instru -
ment cluster display will show “ACC/FCW
Limited Functionality Clean Front Windshield”
and the system will have degraded perfor -
mance.
The “ACC/FCW Limited Functionality Clean
Front Windshield” message can sometimes be
displayed while driving in adverse weather
conditions. The ACC/FCW system will recover
after the vehicle has left these areas. Under
rare conditions, when the camera is not
tracking any vehicles or objects in its path this
warning may temporarily occur. If weather conditions are not a factor, the driver
should examine the windshield and the camera
located on the back side of the inside rear view
mirror. They may require cleaning or removal of
an obstruction.
When the condition that created limited func
-
tionality is no longer present, the system will
return to full functionality.
NOTE:
If the “ACC/FCW Limited Functionality Clean
Front Windshield” message occurs frequently
(e.g. more than once on every trip) without any
snow, rain, mud, or other obstruction, have the
windshield and forward facing camera
inspected at your authorized dealer.
Service ACC/FCW Warning
If the system turns off, and the instrument
cluster displays “ACC/FCW Unavailable Service
Required” or “Cruise/FCW Unavailable Service
Required”, there may be an internal system
fault or a temporary malfunction that limits ACC
functionality. Although the vehicle is still driv -
able under normal conditions, ACC will be
temporarily unavailable. If this occurs, try acti -
vating ACC again later, following an ignition
cycle. If the problem persists, see your autho -
rized dealer.
Precautions While Driving With ACC
In certain driving situations, ACC may have
detection issues. In these cases, ACC may
brake late or unexpectedly. The driver needs to
stay alert and may need to intervene.
NOTE:
Aftermarket add-ons such as snow plows, lift
kits, and brush/grille bars can hinder module
performance. Ensure the radar/camera has
no obstructions in the field of view.
Height modifications can limit module perfor -
mance and functionality.
Do not put stickers or easy passes over the
camera/radar field of view.
Any modifications to the vehicle that may
obstruct the field of view of the radar/camera
are not recommended.
Cleaning Instructions
Dust and dirt can accumulate on the cover and
block the camera lens. Clean the camera lens
with a soft microfiber cloth, being careful not to
damage or scratch the module.
5

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 241

STARTING AND OPERATING249
Adjustable Chime Volume Settings
The rear chime volume settings are program -
mable through the Uconnect system. Refer to
“Uconnect Settings” in “Multimedia” for further
information.
The chime volume settings include low,
medium, and high. The factory default volume is
medium.
Enabling And Disabling ParkSense
ParkSense can be enabled and disabled with
the ParkSense switch.
When the gear selector is moved to
REVERSE and the system is disabled,
the instrument cluster display will
show the vehicle graphic with “Off”
over the arcs for as long as the vehicle is in
REVERSE.
NOTE:
The ParkSense system will automatically
disable when the system detects that a trailer
with trailer brakes has been connected to the
Integrated Trailer Brake Module. The instru -
ment cluster display will show an “Off” message
over the arcs if the ParkSense system is off, or
a “Trailer” message if the system is on, for as
long as the vehicle is in REVERSE. The ParkSense switch LED will be on when Park
-
Sense is disabled or defective. The ParkSense
switch LED will be off when the system is
enabled.
If the ParkSense switch is pushed, and the
system is disabled or requires service, the Park -
Sense switch LED will blink momentarily, and
then the LED will be on.
Service The ParkSense Rear Park Assist
System
During vehicle start up, when the Rear Park -
Sense System has detected a faulted condition,
the instrument cluster display will show the
"Rear ParkSense Unavailable Service Required"
or the "Rear ParkSense Unavailable Wipe
Sensors" message.
When the gear selector is moved into REVERSE,
a vehicle graphic will show in the instrument
cluster display, along with the display overlay
“Rear ParkSense Unavailable Wipe Sensors.” If
the system needs service, the display overlay
will read “Rear ParkSense Unavailable Service
Required” Under this condition, ParkSense will
not operate. If "Rear ParkSense Unavailable Wipe Sensors"
appears in the instrument cluster display make
sure the outer surface and the underside of the
rear fascia/bumper is clean and clear of snow,
ice, mud, dirt or other obstruction, and then
cycle the ignition. If the message continues to
appear, see an authorized dealer.
If "Rear ParkSense Unavailable Service
Required" appears in the instrument cluster
display, see an authorized dealer.Cleaning The ParkSense System
Clean the ParkSense sensors with water, car
wash soap and a soft cloth. Do not use rough or
hard cloths. Do not scratch or poke the sensors.
Otherwise, you could damage the sensors.
ParkSense System Usage Precautions
NOTE:
Ensure that the rear bumper is free of snow,
ice, mud, dirt and debris to keep the Park
-
Sense system operating properly.
Jackhammers, large trucks, and other vibra -
tions could affect the performance of Park -
Sense.
5

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 249

254STARTING AND OPERATING
Front Park Assist Audible Alerts
ParkSense will turn off the Front Park Assist
audible alert (chime) after approximately three
seconds when an obstacle has been detected,
the vehicle is stationary, and brake pedal is
applied.
Adjustable Chime Volume Settings
The Front and Rear chime volume settings are
programmable through the Uconnect system.
Refer to “Uconnect Settings” in “Multimedia”
for further information.
The chime volume settings include low,
medium, and high. The factory default volume is
medium.
Enabling And Disabling Front And/Or Rear
ParkSense
Front ParkSense can be enabled and disabled
with the Front ParkSense switch.
Rear ParkSense can be enabled and disabled
with the Rear ParkSense switch.
When the gear selector is moved to
REVERSE and the Front or Rear
system is disabled, the instrument
cluster display will show a vehicle
graphic with an “Off” message overlay over the
system that is off (Front or Rear system). This vehicle graphic will be displayed for as long as
the vehicle is in REVERSE.
The Front or Rear ParkSense switch LED will be
on when Front or Rear ParkSense is disabled or
requires service. The Front or Rear ParkSense
switch LED will be off when the Front or Rear
system is enabled. If the Front or Rear Park
-
Sense switch is pushed, and the system
requires service, the Front or Rear ParkSense
switch LED will blink momentarily, and then the
LED will be on.
Service The ParkSense Front/Rear Park
Assist System
During vehicle start up, when the Front/Rear
ParkSense System has detected a faulted
condition, the instrument cluster display will
show the "Front/Rear ParkSense Unavailable
Service Required" or the "Front/Rear Park -
Sense Unavailable Wipe Sensors" message.
When the gear selector is moved into REVERSE,
a vehicle graphic will show in the instrument
cluster display, along with the display overlay
“Wipe Sensors.” If the system needs service,
the display overlay will read “Service.” Under
this condition, ParkSense will not operate. If "Front/Rear ParkSense Unavailable Wipe
Sensors" appears in the instrument cluster
display make sure the outer surface and the
underside of the rear fascia/bumper is clean
and clear of snow, ice, mud, dirt or other
obstruction, and then cycle the ignition. If the
message continues to appear, see an autho
-
rized dealer.
If "Front/Rear ParkSense Unavailable Service
Required" appears in the instrument cluster
display, see an authorized dealer.
Cleaning The ParkSense System
Clean the ParkSense sensors with water, car
wash soap and a soft cloth. Do not use rough or
hard cloths. Do not scratch or poke the sensors.
Otherwise, you could damage the sensors.
ParkSense System Usage Precautions
NOTE:
Ensure that the front and rear bumpers are
free of snow, ice, mud, dirt and debris to keep
the ParkSense system operating properly.
Jackhammers, large trucks, and other vibra -
tions could affect the performance of Park -
Sense.

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 254

STARTING AND OPERATING269
REFUELING THE VEHICLE — DIESEL ENGINE
NOTE:
When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the
fuel tank is full.
Tighten the fuel filler cap until you hear a
“clicking” sound. This is an indication that the
fuel filler cap is properly tightened.
Make sure that the fuel filler cap is tightened
each time the vehicle is refueled.
Fuel Filler Cap
If the fuel filler cap is lost or damaged, be sure
the replacement cap is for use with this vehicle.
Avoid Using Contaminated Fuel
Fuel that is contaminated by water or dirt can
cause severe damage to the engine fuel
system. Proper maintenance of the engine fuel
filter and fuel tank is essential. Refer to “Dealer
Service” in “Servicing And Maintenance” for
further information.
Bulk Fuel Storage — Diesel Fuel
If you store quantities of fuel, good mainte -
nance of the stored fuel is also essential. Fuel
contaminated with water will promote the
growth of “microbes.” These microbes form
“slime” that will clog the fuel filtration system
and lines. Drain condensation from the supply
tank and change the line filter on a regular
basis.
NOTE:
When a diesel engine is allowed to run out of
fuel, air is pulled into the fuel system.
If the vehicle will not start, refer to “Priming If
The Engine Has Run Out Of Fuel” in “Servicing
And Maintenance” for further information.CAUTION!
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not
“top off” the fuel tank after filling.
WARNING!
A fire may result if gasoline is pumped into a
portable container that is inside of a vehicle.
You could be burned. Always place gas
containers on the ground while filling.
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or
near the vehicle when the fuel filler cap is
removed or the tank filled.
Never add fuel to the vehicle when the
engine is running.
CAUTION!
Damage to the fuel system or emission
control system could result from using an
improper fuel tank filler tube cap. A poorly
fitting cap could let impurities into the fuel
system.
WARNING!
Do not open the high pressure fuel system
with the engine running. Engine operation
causes high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel
spray can cause serious injury or death.
5

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 269

STARTING AND OPERATING271
Adding Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
The DEF gauge (located on the instrument
cluster) will display the level of DEF remaining in
the tank. Refer to “Instrument Cluster” and
“Instrument Cluster Descriptions” in “Getting To
Know Your Instrument Panel” for further infor -
mation.
NOTE:
Driving conditions (altitude, vehicle speed,
load, etc.) will effect the amount of DEF that
is used in your vehicle.
Another factor is that outside temperature
can affect DEF consumption. In cold condi -
tions, 12°F (-11°C) and below, the DEF
gauge needle can stay on a fixed position and
may not move for extended periods of time.
This is a normal function of the system.
There is an electric heater inside the DEF
tank that automatically works when neces -
sary. And if the DEF supply does freeze, the
truck will operate normally until it thaws.
DEF Fill Procedure
NOTE:
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for the correct fluid type.

1. Remove cap from DEF tank (located on
drivers side of the vehicle or in fuel door).

DEF Filler Cap And Fuel Fill Chassis Cab Models

2. Insert DEF fill adapter/nozzle into DEF tank filler neck. NOTE:The DEF gauge may take up to five seconds
to update after adding a gallon or more of
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to the DEF tank.
If you have a fault related to the DEF
system, the gauge may not update to the
new level. See an authorized dealer for
service.
The DEF gauge may also not immediately
update after a refill if the temperature of the
DEF fluid is below 39°F (4°C). The DEF line
heater will possibly warm up the DEF fluid
and allow the gauge to update after a period
of run time. Under very cold conditions, it is
possible that the gauge may not reflect the
new fill level for several drives.
Excessive overfilling of the DEF tank can
result in a MIL lamp/fault code and inaccu
-
rate level readings.1 — Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fill Location
2 — Diesel Fuel Fill Location
5

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 271

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY295

Assist And SOS Buttons

If equipped, the overhead console contains an
ASSIST and a SOS button. NOTE:
Your vehicle may be transmitting data as
authorized by the subscriber.
The SOS and ASSIST buttons will only func
-
tion if you are connected to an operable LTE
(voice/data) or 4G (data) network. Other
Uconnect services will only be operable if
your SiriusXM Guardian™ service is active
and you are connected to an operable LTE
(voice/data) or 4G (data) network.
ASSIST Call
The ASSIST Button is used to automatically
connect you to any one of the following support
centers:
Roadside Assistance – If you get a flat tire, or
need a tow, just push the ASSIST button and
you’ll be connected to someone who can
help. Roadside Assistance will know what
vehicle you’re driving and its location. Addi -
tional fees may apply for roadside assis -
tance.
SiriusXM Guardian™ Customer Care –
In-vehicle support for SiriusXM Guardian™.
Vehicle Customer Care – Total support for all
other vehicle issues.
SOS Call

1. Push the SOS Call button on the overhead console.

NOTE:
In case the SOS Call button is pushed in error,
there will be a 10 second delay before the SOS
Call system initiates a call to a SOS operator. To
cancel the SOS Call connection, push the SOS
call button on the overhead console or press
the cancellation button on the Device Screen.
Termination of the SOS Call will turn off the
green LED light on the overhead console.
2. The LED light located between the ASSIST and SOS buttons on the overhead console
will turn green once a connection to a SOS
operator has been made.
1 — ASSIST Button
2 — SOS Button
WARNING!
ALWAYS obey traffic laws and pay attention to
the road. ALWAYS drive safely with your hands
on the steering wheel. You have full
responsibility and assume all risks related to
the use of the features and applications in
this vehicle. Only use the features and
applications when it is safe to do so. Failure
to do so may result in an accident involving
serious injury or death.
6

2020_RAM_CHASSIS_CAB_OM_USA=GUID-6C67832B-7839-4CCF-BEFC-CDF988F949EA=1=en=.book Page 295