check engine Ram ProMaster 2017 Owner's Guide

WARNING!
Commercially available windshield washer solvents
are flammable. They could ignite and burn you. Care
must be exercised when filling or working around the
washer solution.
After the engine has warmed, operate the defroster for a
few minutes to reduce the possibility of smearing or
freezing the fluid on the cold windshield. MOPAR All
Weather Windshield Washer Solution or equivalent, used
with water as directed on the container, aids cleaning
action, reduces the freezing point to avoid line clogging,
and is not harmful to paint or trim.
Cooling System
WARNING!
• When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon-
nect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition switch to
the OFF position. The fan is temperature controlled
and can start at anytime the ignition switch is in the
ON position.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
•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 is hot.
Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every 12
months (before the onset of freezing weather, where appli-
cable). If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty, the system
should be drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh OAT
coolant (conforming to MS-12106) only by an authorized
dealer. Check the front of the A/C condenser for any
accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently
spraying water from a garden hose vertically down the face
of the condenser.
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 your local autho-
rized dealer.
290 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!
•Do not open hot engine cooling system. Never add
engine coolant (antifreeze) when the engine is over-
heated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to cool an
overheated engine. Heat causes pressure to build up
in the cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury,
do not remove the pressure cap while the system is
hot or under pressure.
• Do not use a pressure cap other than the one speci-
fied for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine
damage may result.
Disposal Of Used Engine Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) is a
regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with
your local authorities to determine the disposal rules for
your community. To prevent ingestion by animals or
children, do not store ethylene glycol-based engine coolant
in open containers or allow it to remain in puddles on the
ground. If ingested by a child or pet, seek emergency
assistance immediately. Clean up any ground spills imme-
diately.
Coolant Level
The coolant expansion bottle provides a quick visual
method for determining that the coolant level is adequate.
With engine off and cold, the level of the engine coolant
(antifreeze) in the bottle should be between the “MIN” and
“MAX” marks.
Points To Remember
NOTE: When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/
kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor coming
from the front of the engine compartment. This is normally
a result of moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity
accumulating on the radiator and being vaporized when
the thermostat opens, allowing hot engine coolant (anti-
freeze) to enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be
safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
• Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
• Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in the
coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant (antifreeze)
needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion
bottle must also be protected against freezing.
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 293

•If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are
required, the cooling system should be pressure tested
for leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a
minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) and distilled water for proper corrosion pro-
tection of your engine which contains aluminum com-
ponents.
• Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow
hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is
equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
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.
Master Cylinder — Brake Fluid Level Check
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing underhood services, or immediately if
the “Brake System Warning Light” indicates system failure.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing
the cap. Add fluid to bring the level up to the top of the
“FULL” mark on the side of the master cylinder reservoir.
Overfilling of fluid is not recommended because it may
cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the level up to the requirements
described on the brake fluid reservoir. With disc brakes,
294 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake pads wear.
However, low fluid level may be caused by a leak and a
checkup may be needed.
Use only manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid. Refer
to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts” in “Maintain-
ing 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.
• To avoid contamination from foreign matter or mois-
ture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that has been
in a tightly closed container. Keep the master cylin-
der reservoir cap secured at all times. Brake fluid in
a open container absorbs moisture from the air
resulting in a lower boiling point. This may cause it
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
to boil unexpectedly during hard or prolonged brak-
ing, resulting in sudden brake failure. This could
result in a collision.
• Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in
spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts, causing the
brake fluid to catch fire. Brake fluid can also damage
painted and vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
• Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be
damaged, causing partial or complete brake failure.
This could result in a collision.
Automatic Transmission (3.6L Gasoline Engine
Only)
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to
ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use
only the manufacturer’s specified transmission fluid. Refer
to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts” in this section
for fluid specifications. It is important to maintain the
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 295

transmission fluid at the correct level using the recom-
mended fluid. No chemical flushes should be used in any
transmission; only the approved lubricant should be used.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufactur-
er’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration in
transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder, and will require more frequent fluid and
filter changes. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genu-
ine Parts” in this section for fluid specifications.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid additives
to the transmission. The only exception to this policy is the
use of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid using
transmission sealers as they may adversely affect seals.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as
the chemicals can damage your transmission compo-
nents. Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not require
adjustment under normal operating conditions. Routine
fluid level checks are not required, therefore the transmis-
sion filler tube is capped and no dipstick is provided. Your
authorized dealer can check your transmission fluid level
using a special service dipstick. If you notice fluid leakage
or transmission malfunction, visit your authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level checked.
Operating the vehicle with an improper fluid level can
cause severe transmission damage.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your autho-
rized dealer immediately. Severe transmission damage
may occur. Your authorized dealer has the proper tools
to adjust the fluid level accurately.
296 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:
•Check engine oil level
• Check windshield washer fluid level
• Check the tire inflation pressures and look for unusual
wear or damage
• Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, and power steering and fill as needed
• Check function of all interior and exterior lights
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the maintenance schedules on the following page
for the required maintenance intervals.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 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. 8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 321

Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze).............291
Adding Fuel ............................. .227
Adding Washer Fluid ....................... .289
Additives, Fuel ........................... .225
AirBag ..................................31 Air Bag Operation .........................33
Enhanced Accident Response ................274
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .................274
If A Deployment Occurs ....................37
Knee Impact Bolsters .......................34
Maintaining Your Air Bag System ..............41
Air Bag Light .......................... .51, 103
Air Bag Maintenance .........................41
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) ......284
Air Conditioner Maintenance ..................286
Air Conditioning Filter ...................164, 287
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips ............163, 165
Air Conditioning Refrigerant ...............286, 287
Air Conditioning System .....................286
Air Pressure, Tires ......................... .209
Alarm (Security Alarm) .......................14
Alarm System (Security Alarm) .................14
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle ................7
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ................291, 315
Disposal .............................. .293Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
.................191
Anti-Lock Warning Light .....................117
Appearance Care .......................... .297
Assist, Hill Start .......................... .197
Auto Down Power Windows ...................19
Automatic Door Locks ........................18
Automatic Transaxle .........................11
Automatic Transmission ..................177, 297
Adding Fluid ....................... .296, 297
Fluid And Filter Changes ...................297
Fluid Change .......................... .297
Fluid Level Check ....................... .296
Fluid Type ......................... .295, 317
Gear Ranges ........................... .180
Special

Additives ........................ .296
Battery .............................. .104, 286
Charging System Light ....................104
Keyless Key Fob Replacement ................16
Belts, Seat .................................51
Body Builders Guide ..........................6
Body Mechanism Lubrication ..................289
B-Pillar Location .......................... .204
Brake Assist System ........................ .193
Brake Control System, Electronic ................191
334 INDEX

Brake Fluid.............................. .317
Brake, Parking ............................ .189
Brake System ......................... .191, 294
Anti-Lock (ABS) ........................ .191
Fluid Check ........................... .294
Parking .............................. .189
Warning Light .......................... .107
Brake/Transmission Interlock ..................179
Bulb Replacement .......................311,312
Bulbs, Light ........................... .53, 311
Camera, Rear ..............................89
Capacities, Fluid .......................... .315
Caps, Filler Fuel ................................. .227
Power Steering ......................... .189
Radiator (Coolant Pressure) .................292
Carbon Monoxide Warning .................50, 226
Cargo Light ...............................78
Car Washes .............................. .297
Cellular Phone ........................... .157
Certification Label ......................... .228
Chains, Tire ............................. .217
Chart, Tire Sizing .......................... .200
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light). . . .279 Checking Your Vehicle For Safety
................50
Checks, Safety .............................50
Child Restraint .............................42
Child Restraints Booster Seats ............................45
Child Restraints ..........................42
Child Seat Installation ......................48
Infants And Child Restraints .................44
Older Children And Child Restraints ...........44
Clean Air Gasoline ........................ .223
Climate Control ........................... .157
Cold Weather Operation ..................... .176
Compact Disc (CD) Maintenance ................156
Compact Spare Tire ........................ .212
Console, Overhead ..........................91
Contract, Service .......................... .328
Coolant

Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) .............292
Cooling System ........................... .290
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze) .................291
Coolant Capacity ........................ .315
Coolant Level ....................... .290, 293
Disposal Of Used Coolant ..................293
Drain, Flush, And Refill ....................290
Inspection ............................. .293
Points To Remember ..................... .29310
INDEX 335

Pressure Cap........................... .292
Radiator Cap .......................... .292
Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze) .......291, 315, 316
Corrosion Protection ....................... .297
Cruise Light ..............................119
Cupholders ........................... .94, 301
Customer Assistance ....................... .326
Customer Programmable Features ...............144
Dealer Service ............................ .280
Defroster, Windshield ........................51
Diagnostic System, Onboard ...................278
Dimmer Control ............................75
Dimmer Switch, Headlight .....................76
Dipsticks Automatic Transmission ....................296
Oil (Engine) ........................... .281
Power Steering ......................... .189
Disabled Vehicle Towing .....................272
Disposal Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) .................293
Door Ajar ............................... .104
Door Ajar Light ........................... .104
Door Locks ................................17
Door Locks, Automatic .......................18 Driving
Through Flowing, Rising, Or Shallow Standing
Water ................................ .187
Electric Remote Mirrors .......................59
Electronic Brake Control System ................191
Brake Assist System ...................... .193
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control) ..........82
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) ...............193
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light .........105
Emergency, In Case Of Freeing Vehicle When Stuck .................271
Jump Starting .......................... .267
Emission Control System Maintenance ............279
Engine Air Cleaner ............................ .284
Block Heater ........................... .177
Break-In Recommendations ..................49
Checking Oil Level ...................... .281
Compartment .......................... .277
Compartment

Identification .................277
Coolant (Antifreeze) ...................290, 316
Cooling .............................. .290
Exhaust Gas Caution ...................50, 226
Fails To Start ........................... .176
336 INDEX

Flooded, Starting........................ .176
Fuel Requirements ....................223, 315
Jump Starting .......................... .267
Oil ........................... .281, 315, 316
Oil Filter .............................. .283
Oil Selection ........................ .282, 315
Oil Synthetic ........................... .283
Overheating ........................... .242
Starting .............................. .176
Engine Oil Viscosity ........................ .282
Engine Oil Viscosity Chart ....................282
Enhanced Accident Response Feature ............274
Entry System, Illuminated .....................14
Ethanol ................................. .224
Exhaust Gas Caution .....................50, 226
Exhaust System ........................ .50, 284
Exterior Lighting ............................74
Exterior Lights .............................53
Filters Air Cleaner ............................ .284
Air Conditioning .....................164, 287
Engine Oil ......................... .283, 316
Engine Oil Disposal ...................... .283Flashers
Hazard Warning ........................ .242
Turn Signal ......................... .53, 118
Flooded Engine Starting ..................... .176
Fluid Capacities ........................... .315
Fluid Leaks ...............................53
Fluid Level Checks Automatic Transmission ....................296
Brake ................................ .294
Cooling System ......................... .290
Power Steering ......................... .189
Fluids, Lubricants And Genuine Parts ............316
Fog Lights ................................76
Four-Way Hazard Flasher .....................242
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle ..................... .271
Fuel ................................... .223
Adding .............................. .227
Additives ............................. .225
Clean

Air ............................. .223
Ethanol .............................. .224
Filler Cap (Gas Cap) ..................... .227
Gasoline .............................. .223
Materials Added ........................ .225
Methanol ............................. .224
Octane Rating ....................... .223, 316
Requirements ....................... .223, 315
10
INDEX 337