12 v Ram ProMaster 2020 Owner's Manual

STARTING AND OPERATING99
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has
come to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for
prolonged periods with the engine running. The
engine may be started in this range. Apply the
parking brake and shift the transmission into
PARK if you must exit the vehicle.
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 characteris -
tics under all normal operating conditions. When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain, trav
-
eling 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 “Electronic Range Select (ERS) Opera -
tion” in this section for further information) to
select a lower gear range. Under these condi -
tions, using a lower gear range will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
During cold temperatures, transmission opera -
tion may be modified depending on engine and
transmission temperature as well as vehicle
speed. This feature improves warm up time of
the engine and transmission to achieve
maximum efficiency. Engagement of the torque
converter clutch is inhibited until the transmis -
sion fluid is warm refer to the “Note” under
“Torque Converter Clutch” in this section.
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 temperature has
risen to a suitable level.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 Operating” and “Towing A Disabled
Vehicle” in “In Case Of Emergency” for further
information.
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100STARTING AND OPERATING
Transmission Limp Home Mode
Transmission function is monitored electroni -
cally for abnormal conditions. If a condition is
detected that could result in transmission
damage, Transmission Limp Home Mode is acti -
vated. In this mode, the transmission remains
in third gear regardless of which forward gear is
selected. PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL will
continue to operate. The Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) may be illuminated. Transmission
Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle to be
driven to an authorized dealer for service
without damaging the transmission. In the event of a momentary problem, the trans
-
mission can be reset to regain all forward gears
by performing the following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the ignition OFF.
4. Wait approximately 10 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 your authorized
dealer at your earliest possible convenience.
Your authorized dealer has diagnostic equip -
ment to assess the condition of your transmis -
sion.
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. For example, if you set the transmission
gear limit to 4 (fourth gear), the transmission
will not shift above fourth gear, but will shift
through the lower gears normally.
You can switch between DRIVE and ERS mode
at any vehicle speed. When the gear selector is
in the DRIVE position, the transmission will
operate automatically, shifting between all
available gears. Moving the gear selector to the
ERS position (beside DRIVE) will activate ERS
mode, display the current gear in the instru -
ment cluster, and set that gear as the top avail -
able gear. Once in ERS mode, moving the gear
selector forward (-) or rearward (+) will change
the top available gear.
To exit ERS mode, simply return the gear
selector to the DRIVE position.
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.

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STARTING AND OPERATING101
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 elec -
tronically controlled Overdrive (sixth gear). The
transmission will automatically shift into Over -
drive if the following conditions are present:
The gear selector is in the DRIVE position.
The transmission fluid has reached an
adequate temperature.
The engine coolant has reached an adequate
temperature.
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 trans -
mission shifting occurs, push the TOW/HAUL
switch to activate TOW/HAUL 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 down -
shift (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 opera -
tion. 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.
Instrument
Cluster Display 1
23456D
Actual Gear(s)
Allowed 1
1–21–31–41–51–61–6
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102STARTING AND OPERATING
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy
has been included in the automatic transmis -
sion 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 auto -
matically 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 Elec -
tronic Range Select (ERS) shift control, when
the transmission is sufficiently warm, will
demonstrate that the transmission is able to
shift into and out of Overdrive.
If the vehicle has not been driven for several
days, the first few seconds of operation after
shifting the transmission 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.
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.
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.

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STARTING AND OPERATING103
Power Steering Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a
defined service interval is not required. The fluid
should be checked at every oil change if a leak
is suspected, abnormal noises are apparent,
and/or the system is not functioning as antici -
pated. Coordinate 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.
SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED
When engaged, the Speed Control takes over
accelerator operations at speeds greater than
25 mph (40 km/h) up to the maximum speed of
100 mph (160 km/h).
The Speed Control lever is located on the left
side of the steering column.
Speed Control Lever NOTE:
In order to ensure proper operation, the Speed
Control system has been designed to shut down
if multiple Speed Control functions are operated
at the same time. If this occurs, the Speed
Control system can be reactivated by rotating
the Speed Control ON/OFF center ring and
resetting the desired vehicle set speed.
To Activate
Rotate the center ring upward on the Speed
Control lever to turn the system on. The Cruise
Indicator Light in the instrument cluster display
will illuminate. To turn the system off, rotate the
center ring upward a second time. The Cruise
Indicator Light will turn off. The system should
be turned off when not in use.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.
WARNING!
Leaving the Speed Control system on when
not in use is dangerous. You could
accidentally set the system or cause it to go
faster than you want. You could lose control
and have an accident. Always leave the
system off when you are not using it.
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104STARTING AND OPERATING
To Set A Desired Speed
Turn the Speed Control on. When the vehicle
has reached the desired speed, move the
Speed Control lever upward SET (+) and
release. Release the accelerator and the
vehicle will operate at the selected speed.
NOTE:
The vehicle should be traveling at a steady
speed and on level ground before moving the
Speed Control lever upward SET (+).
To Vary The Speed Setting
To Increase Speed
When the Speed Control is set, you can increase
speed by tapping the Speed Control lever up
SET (+).
The driver's preferred units can be selected
through the radio settings (if equipped). Refer to
”Uconnect Settings” in “Multimedia” for more
information. The speed increment shown is
dependent on the chosen speed unit of U.S.
(mph) or Metric (km/h): U.S. Speed (mph)

Tapping the Speed Control lever up SET (+)
once will result in a 1 mph increase in set
speed. Each subsequent tap of the lever
results in an increase of 1 mph.
If the lever is continually held up, the set
speed will continue to increase until the lever
is released, then the new set speed will be
established.
Metric Speed (km/h)
Tapping the Speed Control lever up SET (+)
once will result in a 1 km/h increase in set
speed. Each subsequent tap of the lever
results in an increase of 1 km/h.
If the lever is continually held up, the set
speed will continue to increase until the lever
is released, then the new set speed will be
established.
To Decrease Speed
When the Speed Control is set, you can
decrease speed by tapping the Speed Control
lever down (-). The driver's preferred units can be selected
through the radio settings if equipped. Refer to
”Uconnect Settings” in “Multimedia” for more
information. The speed decrement shown is
dependent on the chosen speed unit of U.S.
(mph) or Metric (km/h):
U.S. Speed (mph)

Tapping the Speed Control lever down (-)
once will result in a 1 mph decrease in set
speed. Each subsequent tap of the lever
results in a decrease of 1 mph.
If the lever is continually held down, the set
speed will continue to decrease until the
lever is released, then the new set speed will
be established.
Metric Speed (km/h)
Tapping the Speed Control lever down (-)
once will result in a 1 km/h decrease in set
speed. Each subsequent tap of the lever
results in a decrease of 1 km/h.
If the lever is continually held down, the set
speed will continue to decrease until the
lever is released, then the new set speed will
be established.

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STARTING AND OPERATING105
To Accelerate For Passing
Press the accelerator as you would normally.
When the pedal is released, the vehicle will
return to the set speed.
Using Speed Control On Hills
The transmission may downshift on hills to
maintain the vehicle set speed.
NOTE:
The Speed Control system maintains speed up
and down hills. A slight speed change on
moderate hills is normal.
On steep hills, a greater speed loss or gain may
occur so it may be preferable to drive without
Speed Control.
To Resume Speed
To resume a previously set speed, push the RES
button and release. Resume can be used at any
speed above 20 mph (32 km/h) up to the
maximum speed of 100 mph (160 km/h).
To Deactivate
A soft tap on the brake pedal, pushing the RES
button, or normal brake pressure while slowing
the vehicle will deactivate Speed Control
without erasing the set speed memory. Rotating
the center ring upward to turn the system off or
placing the ignition in the STOP (OFF/LOCK)
position erases the set speed memory.
PARKSENSE REAR PARK ASSIST — IF
EQUIPPED
The ParkSense Rear Park Assist system
provides an audible indication of the distance
between the rear fascia/bumper and a
detected obstacle when backing up (e.g. during
a parking maneuver). Refer to “ParkSense
System Usage Precautions” in this section for
limitations of this system and recommenda -
tions.
The ParkSense Rear Park Assist is automati -
cally activated when the transmission is placed
into REVERSE. As the distance from an obstacle
behind the vehicle decreases, the audible alert
becomes more frequent.
Interaction With Trailer Towing
The Rear Park Assist system is automatically
deactivated when a trailer is hitched to the
vehicle. The system will be automatically acti -
vated as soon as the trailer is removed.
WARNING!
Speed Control can be dangerous where the
system cannot maintain a constant speed.
Your vehicle could go too fast for the
conditions, and you could lose control and
have an accident. Do not use Speed Control
in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding,
icy, snow-covered or slippery.
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106STARTING AND OPERATING
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Sensors
The four ParkSense Rear Park Assist sensors,
located in the rear fascia/bumper, monitor the
area behind the vehicle that is within the
sensors’ field of view. The sensors can detect
obstacles, in the horizontal direction, from
approximately 12 inches (30 cm) up to
55 inches (140 cm) from the center of the rear
fascia/bumper and up to 24 inches (60 cm)
from the corners of the rear fascia/bumper,
depending on the location, type and orientation
of the obstacle. Rear Park Assist Sensors Location
If several obstacles are detected, the Park -
Sense Rear Park Assist system indicates the
nearest obstacle. The minimum height of a detectable obstacle
corresponds to the maximum height of an
obstacle that would clear the underside of the
vehicle during the parking maneuver.
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Alerts
If an obstacle is behind the vehicle when
REVERSE gear is engaged, an audible alert is
activated.
The tones emitted by the loudspeaker inform
the driver that the vehicle is approaching an
obstacle. The pauses between the tones are
directly proportional to the distance from the
obstacle. Pulses emitted in quick succession
indicate the presence of a very close obstacle. A
continuous tone indicates that the obstacle is
less than 12 inches (30 cm) away.

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STARTING AND OPERATING107
Audible And Visual Signals Supplied By The ParkSense Rear Park Assist System
SIGNAL MEANING INDICATION
Obstacle Distance An obstacle is present within the sensors' field
of viewAudible Signal
(dashboard loudspeaker)
• Sound pulses emitted at a rate that increases
as the distance decreases.
• Emits continuous tone at 12 inches (30 cm).
• Adjustable volume level programmable
through personal settings in the instrument
cluster display. Refer to “Instrument Cluster
Display” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument
Panel”.
Failure Sensor or System failuresVisual Signal (instrument panel)
• Icon appears on display.
• Message is displayed in instrument cluster
display (if equipped).
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108STARTING AND OPERATING
While audible signals are emitted, the audio
system is not muted.
The audible signal is turned off immediately if
the distance increases. The tone cycle remains
constant if the distance measured by the inner
sensors is constant. If this condition occurs for
the external sensors, the signal is turned off
after three seconds (stopping warnings during
maneuvers parallel to walls).
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Failure
Indications
A malfunction of the ParkSense Rear Park
Assist sensors or system is indicated, during
REVERSE gear engagement, by the instrument
panel warning icon.
The warning icon is illuminated and a
message is displayed in the instru -
ment cluster display (if equipped).
Refer to “Warning Lights And
Messages” in “Getting To Know Your Instru -
ment Panel” for further information.
The sensors and wiring are tested continuously
when the ignition is in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN)
position. Failures are indicated immediately if
they occur when the system is on. Even if the system is able to identify that a
specific sensor is in failure condition, the instru
-
ment cluster display shall indicate that the Park-
Sense Rear Park Assist system is unavailable,
without reference to the sensor in failure condi -
tion. If even a single sensor fails, the entire
system must be disabled. The system is turned
off automatically.
Cleaning The ParkSense System
Clean the Rear Park Assist sensors with water,
car wash soap and a soft cloth. Do not use
rough or hard cloths. In washing stations, clean
sensors quickly keeping the vapor jet/high pres -
sure washing nozzles at least 4 inches (10 cm)
from the sensors. Do not scratch or poke the
sensors. Otherwise, you could damage the
sensors.
ParkSense Rear Park Assist System Usage
Precautions
NOTE:
Ensure that the outer surface and the under -
side of the rear bumper is clean and clear of
snow, ice, mud, dirt or other obstruction to
keep the Rear Park Assist system operating
properly.
Jackhammers, large trucks, and other vibra -
tions could affect the performance of Rear
Park Assist.
Clean the Rear Park Assist sensors regularly,
taking care not to scratch or damage them.
The sensors must not be covered with ice,
snow, slush, mud, dirt or debris. Failure to do
so can result in the system not working prop -
erly. The Rear Park Assist system might not
detect an obstacle behind the fascia/
bumper, or it could provide a false indication
that an obstacle is behind the fascia/
bumper.
Objects such as bicycle carriers, etc., must
not be placed within 12 inches (30 cm) from
the rear fascia/bumper while driving the
vehicle. Failure to do so can result in the
system misinterpreting a close object as a
sensor problem, causing a failure indication
to be displayed in the instrument cluster
display.

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