automatic transmission RAM PROMASTER CITY 2022 Owners Manual

3
TRIP COMPUTER .................................................... 43 Trip Button ........................................................43
Trip Functions ..................................................43
Values Displayed ..............................................44
WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES ................... 44
Red Warning Lights ..........................................44
Yellow Warning Lights ......................................47
Green Indicator Lights......................................49
Blue Indicator Lights ........................................50
White Indicator Lights ......................................50
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II ....... 50
Onboard Diagnostic System
(OBD II) Cybersecurity ......................................51
EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMS ............................................................ 51
STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING THE ENGINE ........................................ 52
Automatic Transmission ..................................52
Normal Starting ................................................52
Cold Weather Operation .................................52
Extended Park Starting ....................................52
If Engine Fails To Start .....................................53
After Starting.....................................................53
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED ............ 53
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS .......... 54
PARKING BRAKE .................................................. 54 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ...............................55
Key Ignition Park Interlock...............................56
Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI)
System .............................................................56
9-Speed Automatic Transmission ..................56
POWER STEERING ................................................60
Power Steering Fluid Check ............................60
CRUISE CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED .......................60
To Activate ........................................................61
To Set A Desired Speed ...................................61
To Vary The Speed Setting...............................61
To Accelerate For Passing ...............................61
To Resume Speed ............................................62
To Deactivate ...................................................62
PARKSENSE REAR PARK ASSIST —
IF EQUIPPED ...........................................................62
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Sensors .............62
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Alerts .................63
ParkSense Rear Park Assist Failure
Indications ........................................................64
Cleaning The ParkSense Rear Park Assist
System ..............................................................64
ParkSense Rear Park Assist System Usage
Precautions.......................................................64
PARKVIEW REAR BACK UP CAMERA .................65
REFUELING THE VEHICLE .....................................66 VEHICLE LOADING ................................................. 67
Vehicle Certification Label............................... 67
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) ............. 67
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) .................. 67
Tire Size ............................................................ 67
Rim Size ............................................................ 67
Inflation Pressure ............................................. 67
Curb Weight ...................................................... 67
Overloading ...................................................... 68
Loading ............................................................ 68
TRAILER TOWING .................................................. 68
Common Towing Definitions............................ 68
Trailer Hitch Classification............................... 70
Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer
Weight Ratings) ............................................... 71
Trailer And Tongue Weight .............................71
Towing Requirements ..................................... 71
Towing Tips ...................................................... 74
RECREATIONAL TOWING
(BEHIND MOTORHOME) ....................................... 75

Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle .... 75

Recreational Towing — Automatic Transmission .. 76

DRIVING TIPS ......................................................... 76
Driving On Slippery Surfaces .......................... 76
Driving Through Water ....................................76

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 3

5
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE ..................................... 195 Engine Oil ....................................................... 195
Engine Oil Filter ............................................. 196
Engine Air Cleaner Filter .............................. 196Air Conditioner Maintenance ....................... 196
Body Lubrication............................................ 197
Windshield Wiper Blades .............................. 197Exhaust System ............................................ 198
Cooling System ............................................. 199
Brake System ............................................... 202
Automatic Transmission .............................. 203Upfitter Connectors — If Equipped ............... 204
Fuses.............................................................. 207
Bulb Replacement ......................................... 213
TIRES ..................................................................... 217
Tire Safety Information ................................ 217
Tires — General Information ........................ 225
Tire Types ....................................................... 228
Spare Tires — If Equipped ............................. 229
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care ........................ 231
Tire Chains and Traction Devices ................ 232
Tire Rotation Recommendations ................. 232
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM
TIRE QUALITY GRADES ...................................... 232
Treadwear ...................................................... 232Traction Grades ............................................. 233
Temperature Grades ..................................... 233
STORING THE VEHICLE ...................................... 233 BODYWORK ......................................................... 233
Protection From Atmospheric Agents .......... 233
Body And Underbody Maintenance.............. 234Preserving The Bodywork ............................. 234
INTERIORS .......................................................... 235
Seats And Fabric Parts ................................. 235
Plastic And Coated Parts .............................. 235Leather Surfaces ........................................... 235Glass Surfaces ............................................. 235
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) ........ 236
BRAKE SYSTEM ................................................... 236
WHEEL AND TIRE TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .. 236
Torque Specifications ................................... 236
FUEL REQUIREMENTS ........................................ 237
2.4L Engine ................................................... 237
Reformulated Gasoline ................................ 238Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends ........................ 238
E-85 Usage In Non-Flex Fuel Vehicles ......... 238CNG And LP Fuel System Modifications ...... 238MMT In Gasoline ........................................... 238Materials Added To Fuel ............................... 239
Fuel System Cautions ................................... 239
FLUID CAPACITIES ............................................. 240
ENGINE FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS................... 240
CHASSIS FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS ................ 241
CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
SUGGESTIONS FOR OBTAINING SERVICE FOR
YOUR VEHICLE .................................................... 242
Prepare For The Appointment ...................... 242
Prepare A List ................................................ 242
Be Reasonable With Requests..................... 242
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE ................................ 242
FCA US LLC Customer Center....................... 242
FCA Canada Inc. Customer Center .............. 242
Mexico............................................................ 243
Puerto Rico And US Virgin Islands ............... 243
Customer Assistance For The Hearing
Or Speech Impaired (TDD/TTY) .................... 243
Service Contract ........................................... 243
WARRANTY INFORMATION ................................ 244
MOPAR® PARTS ................................................. 244
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS .......................... 244
In The 50 United States And
Washington, D.C............................................ 244
In Canada ...................................................... 244
PUBLICATION ORDER FORMS .......................... 245
GENERAL INFORMATION.................................... 245

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 5

12GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry Key Immobilizer system prevents
unauthorized vehicle operation by disabling the
engine. The system does not need to be armed or
activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of
whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked.
The system uses ignition keys which have an
embedded electronic chip (transponder) to
prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore,
only keys that are programmed to the vehicle can
be used to start and operate the vehicle.
If the Vehicle Security Light is on after the key is
placed in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position, it
indicates that there is a problem with the
electronics.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
NOTE:A key which has not been programmed is also
considered an invalid key, even if it is cut to fit the
ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle
Úpage 245.
IGNITION SWITCH

1. Place the gear selector in PARK.

2. Rotate the key to the STOP (OFF/LOCK)
position.
3. Remove the key from the ignition switch lock cylinder.

Ignition Switch Positions

CAUTION!
The Sentry Key Immobilizer system is not
compatible with some aftermarket Remote
Starting systems. Use of these systems may
result in vehicle starting problems and loss of
security protection.
1 — AVV (START)
2 — MAR (ACC/ON/RUN)
3 — STOP (OFF/LOCK)
WARNING!

Before exiting a vehicle, always shift the trans -
mission into PARK, apply the parking brake, and
remove the key fob from the vehicle. When
leaving the vehicle, always lock your vehicle. In
case you switch off the vehicle and the transmis -
sion is not in PARK, a warning message will
appear on the cluster which indicates you to shift
the transmission into PARK and then you can
remove the key within 15 seconds. If 15 seconds
expire, you have to rotate the key from the STOP
(OFF/LOCK) position to the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN)
position and come back to the STOP (OFF/LOCK)
position in order to remove the key.

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 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.
Do not leave children or animals inside parked
vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup
may cause serious injury or death.

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 12

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.

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 48

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

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 53

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.

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 54

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

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 55

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

58STARTING AND OPERATING
The following indicators should be used to ensure
that you have properly engaged the transmission
into the PARK position:
When shifting into PARK, push the lock button
on the gear selector and firmly move the gear
selector all the way forward until it stops and is
fully seated.
Look at the transmission gear position display
and verify that it indicates the PARK position.
With brake pedal released, verify that the gear
selector will not move out of PARK.
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. 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.
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), use
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control to
select a lower gear range Úpage 59. Under these
conditions, using a lower gear range will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
If the transmission temperature exceeds normal
operating limits, the transmission controller may
modify the transmission shift schedule, reduce
engine torque, and/or expand the range of torque
converter clutch engagement. This is done to
prevent transmission damage due to overheating.
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.
CAUTION!
Before moving the transmission gear selector
out of PARK, you must turn the ignition to the
ON/RUN position, and also press the brake
pedal. Otherwise, damage to the gear selector
could result.
DO NOT race the engine when shifting from
PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range, as
this can damage the drivetrain.
WARNING!
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.
For Recreational Towing Ú page 75.
For Towing A Disabled Vehicle Ú page 187.

22_VM_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 58