automatic transmission fluid Ram ProMaster 2019 Owner's Manual

STARTING AND OPERATING
CONTENTS
STARTING THE ENGINE ..................137
▫ Automatic Transmission ..................137
▫ Normal Starting ....................... .137
▫ Cold Weather Operation (Below –22°F Or
30°C) ............................. .137
▫ If Engine Fails To Start ..................137
▫ After Starting ......................... .138
 ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED . . . .138
 ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS . . . .139
 PARKING BRAKE ...................... .139
 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ..............141
▫ Key Ignition Park Interlock ................142
▫ Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System . . . .142
▫ Six-Speed Automatic Transmission ...........142
POWER STEERING ..................... .149
▫ Power Steering Fluid Check ...............150
 SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED ..........151
▫ To Activate .......................... .151
▫ To Set A Desired Speed ...................152
▫ To Vary The Speed Setting ................152
▫ To Accelerate For Passing .................153
▫ To Resume Speed ...................... .153
▫ To Deactivate ......................... .153
 PARKSENSE REAR PARK ASSIST — IF
EQUIPPED ........................... .154
▫ ParkSense Rear Park Assist Sensors ..........154
▫ ParkSense Rear Park Assist Alerts ...........154
▫ ParkSense Rear Park Assist Failure Indications . .156
6

started in this range. Apply the parking brake and shift the
transmission into PARK if you must exit the vehicle.
WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the
ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe practices
that limit your response to changing traffic or road
conditions. You might lose control of the vehicle and
have a collision.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any other
reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL can cause
severe transmission damage.
Refer to “Recreational Towing” in “Starting And Op-
erating” and “Towing A Disabled Vehicle” in “In Case
Of Emergency” for further information.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and highway
driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts and downshifts,
and the best fuel economy. The transmission automatically upshifts through all forward gears. The DRIVE position
provides optimum driving characteristics under all normal
operating conditions.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such as when
operating the vehicle under heavy loading conditions, in
hilly terrain, traveling into strong head winds, or while
towing a heavy trailer), select Tow/Haul mode or use the
Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control (refer to
Elec-
tronic Range Select (ERS) Operation in this section for
further information) to select a lower gear range. Under
these conditions, using a lower gear range will improve
performance and extend transmission life by reducing
excessive shifting and heat buildup.
During cold temperatures, transmission operation may be
modified depending on engine and transmission tempera-
ture as well as vehicle speed. This feature improves warm
up time of the engine and transmission to achieve maxi-
mum efficiency. Engagement of the torque converter clutch
is inhibited until the transmission fluid is warm (refer to
the “Note” under “Torque Converter Clutch” in this sec-
tion). During extremely cold temperatures (-16°F [-27°C] or
below), operation may briefly be limited to third gear only.
Normal operation will resume once the transmission tem-
perature has risen to a suitable level.
146 STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine braking on a
slippery surface. The drive wheels could lose their grip
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
and the vehicle could skid, causing a collision or
personal injury.
Instrument
Cluster Dis-
play 123456D
Actual
Gear(s) Al- lowed 1
1–2 1–31–41–51–6 1–6
NOTE: To select the proper gear position for maximum
deceleration (engine braking), move the gear selector into
the ERS position, then tap it forward (-) repeatedly as the
vehicle slows. The transmission will shift to the range from
which the vehicle can best be slowed down.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an electronically con-
trolled Overdrive (sixth gear). The transmission will auto-
matically shift into Overdrive if the following conditions
are present:
• The gear selector is in the DRIVE position. •
The transmission fluid has reached an adequate tem-
perature.
• The engine coolant has reached an adequate tempera-
ture.
• The vehicle speed is sufficiently high.
• The driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator.When To Use TOW/HAUL Mode
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying a
heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission shifting occurs,
push the TOW/HAUL switch to activate TOW/HAUL
148 STARTING AND OPERATING

mode. This will improve performance and reduce the
potential for transmission overheating or failure due to
excessive shifting. When operating in TOW/HAUL mode,
transmission upshifts are delayed, and the transmission
will automatically downshift (for engine braking) during
steady braking maneuvers.
The “TOW/HAUL Indicator Light” will illuminate in the
instrument cluster to indicate that TOW/HAUL mode has
been activated. Pushing the switch a second time restores
normal operation. Normal operation is always the default
at engine start-up. If TOW/HAUL mode is desired, the
switch must be pushed each time the engine is started.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle. A
clutch within the torque converter engages automatically
at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly different
feeling or response during normal operation in the upper
gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during some
accelerations, the clutch automatically disengages.NOTE:
•
The torque converter clutch will not engage, until the
transmission fluid and engine coolant are warm [usually
after 1 to 3 miles (2 to 5 km) of driving]. Because the
engine speed is higher when the torque converter clutch
is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is not
shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is normal. Using
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control, when the
transmission is sufficiently warm, will demonstrate that
the transmission is able to shift into and out of Over-
drive.
• If the vehicle has not been driven for several days, the
first few seconds of operation after shifting the transmis-
sion into gear may seem sluggish. This is due to the fluid
partially draining from the torque converter into the
transmission. This condition is normal and will not
cause damage to the transmission. The torque converter
will refill within five seconds after starting the engine.
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.
6
STARTING AND OPERATING 149

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
CONTENTS
SCHEDULED SERVICING .................225
▫ Maintenance Plan ..................... .226
▫ Heavy Duty Use Of The Vehicle ............228
 ENGINE COMPARTMENT .................229
▫ 3.6L Engine ......................... .229
▫ Checking Oil Level — Gas Engine ...........230
▫ Adding Washer Fluid ...................230
▫ Maintenance-Free Battery .................230
 DEALER SERVICE ...................... .231
▫ Engine Oil .......................... .232
▫ Engine Oil Filter ...................... .233
▫ Engine Air Cleaner Filter .................233
▫ Air Conditioner Maintenance ..............234
▫ Body Lubrication ..................... .236▫
Windshield Wiper Blades .................236
▫ Exhaust System ....................... .237
▫ Cooling System ....................... .238
▫ Brake System ........................ .243
▫ Automatic Transmission (3.6L Gasoline Engine
Only) .............................. .244
 RAISING THE VEHICLE ..................245
 TIRES ............................... .245
▫ Tire Safety Information ..................245
▫ Tires — General Information ..............254
▫ Tire Types ........................... .261
▫ Spare Tires — If Equipped ................262
▫ Wheel
And Wheel Trim Care ..............265
▫ Tire Chains (Traction Devices) .............266
8

Mileage or time passed (which-ever comes first)
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
100,000
110,000
120,000
130,000
140,000
150,000
Or Years: 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Or Kilometers:
32,000
48,000
64,000
80,000
96,000
112,000
128,000
144,000
160,000
176,000
192,000
208,000
224,000
240,000
Inspect the brake pads, replace as
necessary. XXX X X X X
Additional Maintenance
Replace engine air filter. XX X XX
Replace cabin/air conditioning
filter. XXX X X X X
Replace Brake Fluid every two
years. * XXX X X X X
Replace spark plugs. ** X
Flush and replace the engine coolant
at 10 years or 150,000 miles
(240,000 km) whichever comes first.XX
Change automatic transmission
fluid and filter. XX
Inspect and replace PCV valve if
necessary. X
* The brake fluid change interval is time based only,
mileage intervals do not apply.** The spark plug change interval is mileage based only,
yearly intervals do not apply.
8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 227

WARNING!(Continued)
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
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 And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”. It
is important to maintain the transmission fluid at the
correct level using the recommended 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 And Lubricants” in
“Technical Specifications” for fluid specifications.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission. Automatic Transmis-
sion Fluid (ATF) is an engineered product and its perfor-
mance may be impaired by supplemental additives. There-
fore, 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 in six-speed transmissions.
Avoid using transmission sealers as they may adversely
affect seals.
244 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Chassis
ComponentFluid, Lubricant, Or Genuine Part
Automatic Transmission Use Only ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid. Failure to
use ATF+4 fluid may affect the function or performance of
your transmission. We recommend Mopar ATF+4 Fluid.
Brake Master Cylinder We recommend you use Mopar DOT 4.
DOT 4 brake fluid must be changed every two years
regardless of mileage.
Power Steering Reservoir Use Pentosin CHF 11S power steering fluid meeting FCA
Material Standard MS-11655.
284 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze).............240
Adding Washing Fluid ...................... .230
Additives, Fuel ........................... .279
AirBag..................................112 Air Bag Operation ........................114
Air Bag Warning Light .....................111
Enhanced Accident Response ................222
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .................222
If Deployment Occurs .....................119
Maintaining Your Air Bag System .............122
Maintenance ........................... .122
Side Air Bags ...........................115
Transporting Pets ....................... .129
Air Bag Light ....................... .74, 111, 131
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) ......233
Air Conditioner Maintenance ..................234
Air Conditioner Refrigerant ................234, 235
Air Conditioner System ..................... .234
Air Conditioning Filter ....................52, 235
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips .............51, 53
Air Filter ............................... .233
Air Pressure Tires................................. .256
Alarm Security Alarm ........................ .21, 77Alarm System
Security Alarm ...........................21
Alterations/Modifications Vehicle .................................6
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ................239, 282
Disposal .............................. .242
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ..................88
Anti-Lock Warning Light ......................80
Assist, Hill Start ............................94
Audio Systems (Radio) ...................... .286
Auto Down Power Windows ...................54
Automatic Door Locks ........................23
Automatic Transmission ..................141, 245
Adding Fluid .......................... .245
Fluid And Filter Change ...................245
Fluid Change .......................... .245
Fluid Level Check .....................244,
245
Fluid Type ......................... .244, 284
Special Additives ........................ .244
AUXCord .............................. .298
Auxiliary Driving Systems .....................95
Battery .............................. .74, 230
Charging System Light .....................74
Keyless Key Fob Replacement ................17
316 INDEX

Emergency, In Case OfFreeing Vehicle When Stuck .................219
Jacking ........................... .194, 245
Jump Starting .......................... .213
Emission Control System Maintenance ............84
Engine ................................. .229
Air Cleaner ............................ .233
Block Heater ........................... .138
Break-In Recommendations .................139
Compartment .......................... .229
Compartment Identification .................229
Coolant (Antifreeze) ...................239, 282
Cooling .............................. .238
Exhaust Gas Caution ...................130, 281
Fails To Start ........................... .137
Flooded, Starting ........................ .137
Fuel Requirements ....................278, 282
Jump Starting .......................... .213
Oil .............................. .232, 282
Oil Filler Cap .......................... .229
Oil Filter .............................. .233
Oil Selection ........................ .232, 282
Oil Synthetic ........................... .233
Overheating ........................... .217
Starting .............................. .137Engine Oil Viscosity
........................ .232
Engine Oil Viscosity Chart ....................232
Enhanced Accident Response Feature ............222
Entry System, Illuminated .....................44
Ethanol ................................. .279
Exhaust Gas Cautions ....................130, 281
Exhaust System ....................... .130, 237
Exterior Lights ......................... .38, 133
Filters Air Cleaner ............................ .233
Air Conditioning ..................... .52, 235
Engine Oil ......................... .233,
282
Engine Oil Disposal ...................... .233
Flashers Hazard Warning ........................ .179
Turn Signals ......................... .82, 133
Flooded Engine Starting ..................... .137
Fluid Capacities ........................... .282
Fluid Leaks .............................. .133
Fluid Level Checks Automatic Transmission ....................245
Brake ................................ .243
Cooling System ......................... .239
Power Steering ......................... .150
12
INDEX 319