ignition RAM PROMASTER CITY 2022 Owner's Manual

46GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning
Light
This warning light will illuminate to
inform of a problem with the ETC
system. If a problem is detected while
the vehicle is running, the light will
either stay on or flash depending on the nature of
the problem. Cycle the ignition when the vehicle is
safely and completely stopped and the
transmission is placed in the PARK (P) position.
The light should turn off. If the light remains on with
the vehicle running, your vehicle will usually be
drivable; however, see an authorized dealer for
service as soon as possible.
If the light continues to flash when the vehicle is
running, immediate service is required and you
may experience reduced performance, an
elevated/rough idle, or engine stall and your
vehicle may require towing. The light will come on
when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or MAR/
ON/RUN position and remain on briefly as a bulb
check. If the light does not come on during starting,
have the system checked by an authorized dealer.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
Light
This warning light warns of an
overheated engine condition. If the
engine coolant temperature is too high,
this indicator will illuminate and a single chime will sound. If the temperature reaches the
upper limit, a continuous chime will sound for four
minutes or until the engine is able to cool,
whichever comes first.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over
and stop the vehicle. If the Air Conditioning (A/C)
system is on, turn it off. Also, shift the transmission
into NEUTRAL (N) and idle the vehicle. If the
temperature reading does not return to normal,
turn the engine off immediately and call for service
Ú
page 183.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to
indicate low engine oil pressure. If the
light turns on while driving, stop the
vehicle, shut off the engine as soon as
possible, and contact an authorized dealer. A
chime will sound when this light turns on.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is
corrected. This light does not indicate how much oil
is in the engine. The engine oil level must be
checked under the hood.

Transmission Temperature Warning Light —
If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate to warn
of a high transmission fluid
temperature. This may occur with
strenuous usage such as trailer towing.
If this light turns on, stop the vehicle and run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the
transmission in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), until the
light turns off. Once the light turns off, you may
continue to drive normally.
Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light
When the ignition is first placed in the
ON/RUN or MAR/ON/RUN position, if
the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled, a
chime will sound and the light will turn
on. When driving, if the driver or front passenger
seat belt remains unbuckled, the Seat Belt
Reminder Light will flash or remain on continuously
and a chime will sound Ú page 137.
WARNING!
If you continue operating the vehicle when the
Transmission Temperature Warning Light is
illuminated you could cause the fluid to boil over,
come in contact with hot engine or exhaust
components and cause a fire.
CAUTION!
Continuous driving with the Transmission
Temperature Warning Light illuminated will
eventually cause severe transmission damage
or transmission failure.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL47
Transmission Fault Warning Light
This light will illuminate (together with a
message in the instrument cluster
display and a buzzer) to indicate a
transmission fault. Contact an
authorized dealer if the message remains after
restarting the engine.
Engine Oil Level Warning Light
This warning light appears on the panel
when the engine oil level falls below the
minimum recommended value. Restore
the correct engine oil level or contact an
authorized dealer for service.
YELLOW WARNING LIGHTS
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning
Light
This light monitors the ABS. The light will
turn on when the ignition is placed in the
ON/RUN or MAR/ON/RUN position and
may stay on for as long as four seconds.
If the ABS light remains on or turns on while
driving, then the Anti-Lock portion of the brake
system is not functioning and service is required.
However, the conventional brake system will
continue to operate normally if the brake warning
light is not on. If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be
serviced as soon as possible to restore the
benefits of Anti-Lock Brakes. If the ABS light does
not turn on when the ignition is placed in the ON/
RUN or MAR/ON/RUN position, have the light
inspected by an authorized dealer.
Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level reaches
approximately 2–3 gal (9–11 L) this
light will turn on, and remain on until
fuel is added.
Generic Warning Light
The Generic Warning Light will
illuminate if any of the following
conditions occur: Engine Oil Pressure
Sensor Failure, External Light Failure,
Parking Sensor Failure, Fuel Cut-Off Fail/
Intervention, Generic Failure on Trailer, or Air Bag
telltale recovery.
The telltale will blink in case of an Air Bag Warning
Light Failure. Contact an authorized dealer
immediately for service.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light
The warning light switches on and a
message is displayed to indicate that
the tire pressure is lower than the
recommended value and/or that slow
pressure loss is occurring. In these cases, optimal
tire duration and fuel consumption may not be
guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition
mentioned above, the display will show the
indications corresponding to each tire.

Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the
inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label. If your vehicle has tires of a different
size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or
tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the
proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.

CAUTION!
Do not continue driving with one or more flat
tires as handling may be compromised. Stop the
vehicle, avoiding sharp braking and steering. If a
tire puncture occurs, repair immediately using
the dedicated tire repair kit and contact an
authorized dealer as soon as possible.
3

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48GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been
equipped with a TPMS that illuminates a low tire
pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is
significantly underinflated. Accordingly, when the low
tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and
check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them
to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly
underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can
lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel
efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the
vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for
proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s
responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even
if underinflation has not reached the level to trigger
illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS
malfunction indicator to indicate when the system
is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction
indicator is combined with the low tire pressure
telltale. When the system detects a malfunction,
the telltale will flash for approximately one minute
and then remain continuously illuminated. This
sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle
start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When
the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the
system may not be able to detect or signal low tire
pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may
occur for a variety of reasons, including the
installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from
functioning properly. Always check the TPMS
malfunction telltale after replacing one or more
tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the
replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow
the TPMS to continue to function properly.
Vehicle Security Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when
the vehicle security system has
detected an attempt to break into the
vehicle.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator
Warning Light (MIL)

The Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) is a part of an Onboard
Diagnostic System called OBD II that
monitors engine and automatic
transmission control systems. This warning light will
illuminate when the ignition is in the ON/RUN position
before engine start. After placing the ignition to the
ON/RUN position, if there is a problem with the Sentry
Key System, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on.
This condition will result in the engine being shut off
after two seconds. If the bulb does not come on when
turning the ignition switch from OFF to ON/RUN, have
the condition checked promptly.

NOTE:This warning light will illuminate when the vehicle
security system has detected an attempt to break
into the vehicle.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas
cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the light
after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if
the light stays on through several typical driving
styles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive
normally and will not require towing.

When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to alert
serious conditions that could lead to immediate loss
of power or severe catalytic converter damage. The
vehicle should be serviced by an authorized dealer as
soon as possible if this occurs.

CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original
equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures
and warning have been established for the tire
size equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable
system operation or sensor damage may result
when using replacement equipment that is not
of the same size, type, and/or style. Aftermarket
wheels can cause sensor damage. Using
aftermarket tire sealants may cause the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor to
become inoperable. After using an aftermarket
tire sealant it is recommended that you take
your vehicle to an authorized dealer to have your
sensor function checked.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL49
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Warning
Light — If Equipped
The ESC Indicator Light in the
instrument cluster will come on when
the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or
MAR/ON/RUN position, and when ESC
is activated. It should go out with the engine
running. If the ESC Indicator Light comes on continuously with the engine running, a
malfunction has been detected in the ESC system.
If this light remains on after several ignition cycles,
and the vehicle has been driven several miles
(kilometers) at speeds greater than 30 mph
(48 km/h), see an authorized dealer as soon as
possible to have the problem diagnosed and
corrected.
The ESC OFF Indicator Light and the ESC Indi
-
cator Light come on momentarily each time the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or MAR/ON/
RUN position.
Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN or
MAR/ON/RUN, the ESC system will be on, even
if it was turned off previously.
The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking
sounds when it is active. This is normal; the
sounds will stop when ESC becomes inactive.
This light will come on when the vehicle is in an
ESC event.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF
Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light indicates the ESC is off.

Each time the ignition is turned to
ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN, the ESC
system will be on, even if it was turned
off previously.

GREEN INDICATOR LIGHTS
Turn Signal Indicator Lights
When the left or right turn signal is
activated, the turn signal indicator will
flash independently and the
corresponding exterior turn signal lamps
will flash. Turn signals can be activated when the
multifunction lever is moved down (left) or up
(right).
NOTE:
A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is
driven more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either
turn signal on.
Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if
either indicator flashes at a rapid rate.
Parking/Headlights On Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when
the parking lights or headlights are
turned on Ú page 24.
Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when
the front fog lights are on Ú page 24.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as
referenced above, can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating
conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive
slowly or park over flammable substances such
as dry plants, wood, cardboard, etc. This could
result in death or serious injury to the driver,
occupants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause damage to the
vehicle control system. It also could affect fuel
economy and driveability. If the MIL is flashing,
severe catalytic converter damage and power
loss will soon occur. Immediate service is
required.
3

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL51
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM
(OBD II) CYBERSECURITY
Your vehicle is required to have an OBD II and a
connection port to allow access to information
related to the performance of your emissions
controls. Authorized service technicians may need
to access this information to assist with the
diagnosis and service of your vehicle and
emissions system Úpage 78.
EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND
MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS
In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to
pass an inspection of your vehicle's emissions
control system. Failure to pass could prevent
vehicle registration.
For states that require an Inspection
and Maintenance (I/M), this check
verifies the Malfunction Indicator Light
(MIL) is functioning and is not on when
the engine is running, and that the OBD II system
is ready for testing.
The OBD ll may not be ready if your vehicle was
recently serviced, recently had a depleted battery
or a battery replacement. If the OBD ll system
should be determined not ready for the I/M test,
your vehicle may fail the test.
Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated test,
which you can use prior to going to the test station.
To check if your vehicle's OBD II system is ready,
you must do the following:

1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, but do not crank or start the engine.

NOTE:If you crank or start the engine, you will have to
start this test over. 2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to the
ON position, you will see the MIL symbol come
on as part of a normal bulb check.
3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will happen:
The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds and
then return to being fully illuminated until you
turn OFF the ignition or start the engine. This
means that your vehicle's OBD II system is not
ready and you should not proceed to the I/M
station.
The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully
illuminated until you place the ignition in the off
position or start the engine. This means that
your vehicle's OBD II system is ready and you
can proceed to the I/M station.
If your OBD II system is not ready, you should see
an authorized dealer or repair facility. If your
vehicle was recently serviced or had a battery
failure or replacement, you may need to do nothing
more than drive your vehicle as you normally would
in order for your OBD II system to update. A
recheck with the above test routine may then
indicate that the system is now ready.
WARNING!
ONLY an authorized service technician should
connect equipment to the OBD II connection
port in order to read the VIN, diagnose, or
service your vehicle.
If unauthorized equipment is connected to the
OBD II connection port, such as a
driver-behavior tracking device, it may:
Be possible that vehicle systems,
including safety related systems, could be
impaired or a loss of vehicle control could
occur that may result in an accident
involving serious injury or death.
Access, or allow others to access, infor -
mation stored in your vehicle systems,
including personal information.
3

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52
STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING THE ENGINE
Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat,
adjust both inside and outside mirrors, and fasten
your seat belts.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The gear selector must be in the PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N) position before you can start the
engine. Press the brake pedal before shifting to
any driving gear.
NOTE:You must press the brake pedal before shifting out
of PARK.
NORMAL STARTING
Turn the ignition switch to the AVV (START) position
and release it when the engine starts. If the engine
fails to start within 10 seconds, turn the ignition
switch to the STOP (OFF/LOCK) position, wait 10 to
15 seconds, then repeat this procedure.
COLD WEATHER OPERATION
To ensure reliable starting at low temperatures,
use of an externally powered electric engine block
heater (available from an authorized dealer) is
recommended.
To prevent possible engine damage while starting
at low temperatures, this vehicle will inhibit engine
cranking when the ambient temperature is less
than -31°F (-35° C) and the oil temperature
sensor reading indicates an engine block heater
has not been used. The message “Plug In Engine
Heater” will be displayed in the instrument cluster
when the ambient temperature is below -25°F
(-32° C) at the time the engine is shut off as a
reminder.
EXTENDED PARK STARTING
NOTE:Extended Park condition occurs when the vehicle
has not been started or driven for at least 30 days.

1. Install a battery charger or jumper cables to the battery to ensure a full battery charge
during the crank cycle.

2. Place the ignition in the AVV (START) position and release it when the engine starts.
3. If the engine fails to start within ten seconds, place the ignition in the STOP (OFF/LOCK)
position, wait 10 to 15 seconds to allow the
starter to cool, then repeat the Extended Park
Starting procedure.
4. If the engine fails to start after eight attempts, allow the starter to cool for at least
10 minutes, then repeat the procedure.
WARNING!
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with
access to an unlocked vehicle.
Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended
is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child
or others could be seriously or fatally injured.
Children should be warned not to touch the
parking brake, brake pedal or the transmis -
sion gear selector.
Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle
(or in a location accessible to children). A child
could operate power windows, other controls,
or move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank
continuously for more than 10 seconds at a
time. Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 52

STARTING AND OPERATING53
IF ENGINE FAILS TO START
If the engine fails to start after you have followed
the “Normal Starting” or “Extreme Cold Weather”
procedure, and has not experienced an extended
park condition as identified in “Extended Park
Starting” procedure, it may be flooded. Push the
accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold
it there. Crank the engine for no more than 10
seconds. This should clear any excess fuel in case
the engine is flooded. Leave the ignition key in the
MAR (ON/RUN) position, release the accelerator
pedal and repeat the “Normal Starting” procedure.
AFTER STARTING
The idle speed is controlled automatically, and it
will decrease as the engine warms up.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED
The engine block heater warms the engine and
permits quicker starts in cold weather.
Connect the cord to a 110-115 Volt AC electrical
outlet with a grounded, three-wire extension cord.
For ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C), the
engine block heater is recommended. For ambient
temperatures below -20°F (-29°C), the engine
block heater is required.
The engine block heater cord is routed under the
hood, behind to the driver’s side headlamp. Follow
the steps below to properly use the engine block
heater:

1. Locate the engine block heater cord (behind
the driver’s side headlamp).

2. Undo the hook-and-loop strap that secures the heater cord in place. 3. Pull the cord to the front of the vehicle and
plug it into a grounded, three-wire extension
cord.
4. After the vehicle is running, reattach the cord to the hook-and-loop strap and properly stow
away behind the driver’s side headlamp.
NOTE:
The engine block heater cord is a factory
installed option. If your vehicle is not equipped,
heater cords are available from an authorized
dealer.
The engine block heater will require 110 Volts
AC and 6.5 Amps to activate the heater
element.
The engine block heater must be plugged in at
least one hour to have an adequate warming
effect on the engine.
WARNING!
Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into
the throttle body air inlet opening in an
attempt to start the vehicle. This could result
in flash fire causing serious personal injury.
Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to
get it started. Vehicles equipped with an auto -
matic transmission cannot be started this
way. Unburned fuel could enter the catalytic
converter and once the engine has started,
ignite and damage the converter and vehicle.
If the vehicle has a discharged battery,
booster cables may be used to obtain a start
from a booster battery or the battery in
another vehicle. This type of start can be
dangerous if done improperly Ú page 181.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not
continuously crank the engine for more than 10
seconds at a time. Wait 10 to 15 seconds before
trying again.
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the engine block
heater cord before driving. Damage to the
110-115 Volt electrical cord could cause
electrocution.
4

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54STARTING AND OPERATING
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS
A long break-in period is not required for the engine
and drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your
vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles
(500 km). After the initial 60 miles (100 km),
speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are
desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within
the limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good
break-in. Wide-open throttle acceleration in low
gear can be detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory
is a high-quality energy conserving type lubricant.
Oil changes should be consistent with anticipated
climate conditions under which vehicle operations
will occur. For the recommended viscosity and
quality grades Ú page 240.
NOTE:A new engine may consume some oil during its first
few thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This
should be considered a normal part of the break-in
and not interpreted as a concern. Please check
your oil level with the engine oil indicator often
during the break-in period. Add oil as required.
PARKING BRAKE
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the
parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to
leave an automatic transmission in PARK.
The parking brake lever is located in the center
console. To apply the parking brake, pull the lever
up as firmly as possible. To release the parking
brake, pull the lever up slightly, push the center
button, then lower the lever completely.

Parking Brake
When the parking brake is applied with the ignition
switch in the ON position, the Brake Warning Light
in the instrument cluster display will illuminate.
NOTE:
When the parking brake is applied and the auto
-
matic transmission is placed in gear, the Brake
Warning Light will flash. If vehicle speed is
detected, a chime will sound to alert the driver.
Fully release the parking brake before
attempting to move the vehicle.
This light only shows that the parking brake is
applied. It does not show the degree of brake
application.
When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the
front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade
and away from the curb on an uphill grade. For
vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission,
apply the parking brake before placing the gear
selector in PARK, otherwise the load on the
transmission locking mechanism may make it
difficult to move the gear selector out of PARK. The
parking brake should always be applied whenever
the driver is not in the vehicle.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral
Oil in the engine or damage may result.

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STARTING AND OPERATING55
(Continued)
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
You must press and hold the brake pedal while
shifting out of PARK.
WARNING!
When exiting the vehicle, always remove the
key fob from the ignition and lock your vehicle.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with
access to an unlocked vehicle.
Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended
is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child
or others could be seriously or fatally injured.
Children should be warned not to touch the
parking brake, brake pedal or the gear
selector.
Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle,
or in a location accessible to children. A child
could operate power windows, other controls,
or move the vehicle.
Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged
before driving; failure to do so can lead to
brake failure and a collision.
Always fully apply the parking brake when
leaving your vehicle or it may roll and cause
damage or injury. Also, be certain to leave an
automatic transmission in PARK. Failure to do
so may cause the vehicle to roll and cause
damage or injury.
CAUTION!
If the Brake System Warning Light remains on
with the parking brake released, a brake system
malfunction is indicated. Have the brake system
serviced by an authorized dealer immediately.
WARNING!
It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or
NEUTRAL if the engine speed is higher than
idle speed. If your foot is not firmly pressing
the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate
quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose
control of the vehicle and hit someone or
something. Only shift into gear when the
engine is idling normally and your foot is firmly
pressing the brake pedal.
Unintended movement of a vehicle could
injure those in or near the vehicle. As with all
vehicles, you should never exit a vehicle while
the engine is running. Before exiting a vehicle
always come to a complete stop, then apply
the parking brake, shift the transmission into
PARK, turn the engine OFF, and remove the
ignition key. Once the key is removed, the
transmission is locked in PARK, securing the
vehicle against unwanted movement.
When leaving the vehicle, always remove the
ignition key from the vehicle and lock the
vehicle.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with
access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing chil -
dren to be in a vehicle unattended is
dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or
others could be seriously or fatally injured.
Children should be warned not to touch the
parking brake, brake pedal or the transmis -
sion gear selector.
Do not leave the ignition key in or near the
vehicle (or in a location accessible to chil-
dren). A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.
WARNING!
4

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56STARTING AND OPERATING
KEY IGNITION PARK INTERLOCK
This vehicle is equipped with a Key Ignition Park
Interlock which requires the transmission to be in
PARK before the ignition can be turned to the full
STOP (OFF/LOCK) (key removal) position. The key
can only be removed from the ignition when the
ignition is in the STOP (OFF/LOCK) position, and
once removed, the transmission is locked in PARK.
BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT
I
NTERLOCK (BTSI) SYSTEM
This vehicle is equipped with a BTSI that holds the
transmission gear selector in PARK unless the
brakes are applied. To shift the transmission out of
PARK, the ignition must be in the MAR (ON/RUN)
position (engine running or not) and the brake
pedal must be pressed. The brake pedal must also be pressed to shift from
NEUTRAL into DRIVE or REVERSE when the vehicle
is stopped or moving at low speeds.
9-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The transmission gear range (PRND) is displayed
both beside the gear selector and in the
instrument cluster display. To select a gear range,
push the lock button on the gear selector and
move the lever rearward or forward. You must also
press the brake pedal to shift the transmission out
of PARK (or NEUTRAL, when the vehicle is stopped
or moving at low speeds). Select the DRIVE range
for normal driving.
NOTE:In the event of a mismatch between the gear
selector position and the actual transmission gear
(for example, driver selects REVERSE while driving
forward), the position indicator will blink continu
-
ously until the selector is returned to the proper
position, or the requested shift can be completed.
The electronically controlled transmission adapts
its shift schedule based on driver inputs, along
with environmental and road conditions. The
transmission electronics are self-calibrating;
therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle may
be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition,
and precision shifts will develop within a few
hundred miles or kilometers. The 9-speed transmission has been developed to
meet the needs of current and future FWD/AWD
vehicles. Software and calibration is refined to
optimize the customer’s driving experience and
fuel economy. By design, some vehicle and
driveline combinations utilize NINTH gear only in
very specific driving situations and conditions.
Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when
the accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is
stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on the brake
pedal when shifting between these gears.

The transmission gear selector provides PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, DRIVE, and Electronic Range
Select (ERS) shift positions. Manual downshifts can
be made using the ERS shift control. Moving the gear
selector into the ERS “-”/”+” position (beside the
DRIVE position) activates ERS mode, displays the
current gear in the instrument cluster, and prevents
automatic upshifts beyond this gear. In ERS mode,
toggling the gear selector forward “-” or rearward “+”
will change the highest available gear

Ú
page 59.

NOTE:If the gear selector cannot be moved to the PARK,
REVERSE, or NEUTRAL position (when pushed
forward) it is probably in the ERS “+”/”-” position
(beside the DRIVE position). In ERS mode, the
transmission gear limit (1, 2, 3, etc.) is displayed in
the instrument cluster. Move the gear selector to
the right (into the DRIVE [D] position) for access to
PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL.
CAUTION!
Shift into or out of PARK or REVERSE only after
the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
Do not shift between PARK, REVERSE,
NEUTRAL, or DRIVE when the engine is above
idle speed.
Before shifting into any gear, make sure your
foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal.

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 56