Chrysler 300 SRT - 2014 User Manual

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OWNER’S MANUAL
300 SRT
VEHICLES SOLD IN CANADA
DRIVING AND ALCOHOL
Drunken driving is one of the most frequent causes of accidents.
This manual illustrates and describes the operation of features and equipment that are either standard or optional on this vehicle. This manual may also include a description of features and equipment that are no longer available or were not ordered on this vehicle. Please disregard any features and equipment described in this manual that are not on this vehicle.
Your driving ability can be seriously impaired with blood alcohol levels far below the legal minimum. If you are drinking, don’t drive. Ride witha designatednon-drinking driver, call a cab,a friend, or use public transportation.
WARNING!
Driving after drinking can lead to an accident. Your percep­tions are less sharp, your reflexes are slower, and your judg­ment is impaired when you have been drinking. Never drink and then drive.
Chrysler Group LLC reserves the right to make changes in design and specifications, and/or make additions to or improve­ments to its products without imposing any obligation upon itself to install them on products previously manufactured.
Copyright © 2013 Chrysler Group LLC
SECTION PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
INTRODUCTION .............................................................3
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE .............................9
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ............................105
4
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL ..................................299
5
STARTING AND OPERATING .................................................367
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES ..............................................457
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ...............................................481
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES .................................................537
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE ........................................555
10
INDEX ....................................................................565
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

INTRODUCTION

CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ........................4
1
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ........6
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL ..............4
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS ..............6
VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS ....7
4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on selecting your new Chrysler Group LLC vehicle. Be assured that it represents precision workmanship, distinctive styling, and high quality - all essentials that are traditional to our vehicles.
This Owner’s Manual has been prepared with the assis­tance of service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your vehicle. It is supplemented by Warranty Information, and various customer-oriented documents. Please take the time to read these publications carefully. Following the instruc­tions and recommendations in this manual will help assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle.
NOTE: After reviewing the owner information, it should be stored in the vehicle for convenient referenc­ing and remain with the vehicle when sold.
When it comes to service, remember that your authorized dealer knows your vehicle best, has factory-trained tech­nicians and genuine parts, and cares about your satisfac­tion.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

Consult the Table of Contents to determine which section contains the information you desire.
Since the specification of your vehicle depends on the items of equipment ordered, certain descriptions and illustrations may differ from your vehicle’s equipment.
The detailed index at the back of this Owner’s Manual contains a complete listing of all subjects.
Consult the following table for a description of the symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout this Owner’s Manual:
INTRODUCTION 5
1
6 INTRODUCTION

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

This Owners Manual contains WARNINGS against op- erating procedures that could result in a collision or bodily injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against proce­dures that could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do not read this entire Owners Manual, you may miss important information. Observe all Warnings and Cau­tions.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is on the left front corner of the instrument panel. The VIN is visible from outside of the vehicle through the windshield. This number also appears on the Automobile Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on your vehicle, the vehicle registration, and the title.
VIN Location
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is also located on the right front strut tower inside the engine compart­ment.
INTRODUCTION 7

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS

VIN Location
NOTE: It is illegal to remove or alter the VIN.
WARNING!
Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety and may lead to a collision resulting in serious injury or death.
1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS
A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS .............12
Keyless Ignition Node (KIN) ..............12
KeyFob ............................13
Ignition Or Accessory On Message ..........15
SENTRY KEY® .........................16
Replacement Keys .....................17
Customer Key Programming ..............18
General Information ....................18
VEHICLE SECURITY ALARM — IF EQUIPPED . . .18
Rearming Of The System ................19
2
To Arm The System.....................19
To Disarm The System ...................19
Tamper Alert .........................21
ILLUMINATED ENTRY — IF EQUIPPED ......21
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) ...........21
To Unlock The Doors ...................22
To Lock The Doors .....................23
To Unlatch The Trunk ...................23
Using The Panic Alarm ..................24
Programming Additional Transmitters .......24
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Transmitter Battery Replacement ...........24
TRUNK LOCK AND RELEASE .............43
General Information ....................26
REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED . .26
How To Use Remote Start ................27
DOOR LOCKS .........................29
Manual Door Locks .....................29
Power Door Locks .....................31
Child-Protection Door Lock System —
Rear Doors ..........................33
KEYLESS ENTER-N-GO™ .................34
WINDOWS ...........................39
Power Windows .......................39
Wind Buffeting .......................42
TRUNK SAFETY WARNING................44
Trunk Emergency Release ................44
OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS ................45
Lap/Shoulder Belts ....................49
Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure .....54
Seat Belts In Passenger Seating Positions ......55
Automatic Locking Retractor Mode (ALR) — If
Equipped ............................56
Energy Management Feature ..............57
Seat Belt Pretensioners ..................57
Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System
(BeltAlert®) ..........................57
Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ...........58
Seat Belt Extender .....................59
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
SAFETY TIPS .........................100
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) —
Air Bags ............................59
Air Bag Deployment Sensors And Controls ....66
Event Data Recorder (EDR) ...............74
Child Restraints .......................75
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS ....99
Transporting Passengers .................100
Exhaust Gas .........................101
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle .............................102
Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle .........................104
2
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

Your vehicle uses a keyless ignition system. This system consists of a Key Fob with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and a Keyless Ignition Node (KIN).
Keyless Enter-N-Go™ Feature
This vehicle is equipped with the Keyless Enter-N-Go™ feature, (refer to Keyless Enter-N-Go™in Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehiclefor further informa­tion).

Keyless Ignition Node (KIN)

This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a button, as long as the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is in the passenger compartment.
The Keyless Ignition Node (KIN) has four operating positions, three of which are labeled and will illuminate when in position. The three positions are OFF, ACC, and ON/RUN. The fourth position is START, during start RUN will illuminate.
NOTE: In case the ignition switch does not change with the push of a button, the RKE transmitter (Key Fob) may have a low or dead battery. In this situation a back up method can be used to operate the ignition switch. Put the nose side (side opposite of the emergency key) of the Key Fob against the ENGINE START/STOP button and push to operate the ignition switch.
Keyless Ignition Node (KIN)
1 — OFF 2 — ACC (ACCESSORY) 3 — ON/RUN
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13

Key Fob

The Key Fob also contains the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and an emergency key, which stores in the rear of the Key Fob.
The emergency key allows for entry into the vehicle should the battery in the vehicle or the Key Fob go dead. The emergency key is also for locking/unlocking the glove compartment. You can keep the emergency key with you when valet parking.
To remove the emergency key, slide the mechanical latch on the back of the Key Fob sideways with your thumb and then pull the key out with your other hand.
2
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Mechanical Latch On The Back Of The Key Fob Emergency Key Removal
NOTE: You can insert the double-sided emergency key
into the lock cylinders with either side up.

Ignition Or Accessory On Message

Opening the driver’s door when the ignition is in ACC or ON (engine not running), a chime will sound to remind you to cycle the ignition to OFF. In addition to the chime, the ignition or accessory on message will display in the cluster.
NOTE: With the Uconnect® system, the power window switches, radio, power sunroof (if equipped), and power outlets will remain active for up to 10 minutes after the ignition is cycled to the OFF position. Opening either front door will cancel this feature. The time for this feature is programmable. Refer to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
WARNING!
When leaving the vehicle, always remove the Key Fob from the vehicle 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 shift lever.
Do not leave the Key Fob in or near the vehicle, or in a location accessible to children, and do not leave the ignition of a vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go™ in the ACC or ON/RUN mode. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
(Continued)
2
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat build-up may cause serious injury or death.
CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always remove the Key Fob from vehicle, cycle the ignition OFF and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

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 a Key Fob with a factory-mated Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, a Keyless Ignition Node (KIN) and a RF receiver to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only Key Fobs that are pro­grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system will not allow the engine to crank if an invalid Key Fob is used to start and operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two seconds if an invalid Key Fob is used to start the engine.
After placing the ignition to the ON/RUN position, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used an invalid Key Fob to start the engine. Either of these conditions will result in the engine being shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electron­ics. Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible by an authorized dealer.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

Replacement Keys

NOTE: Only Key Fobs that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle. Once a Key Fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle.
2
CAUTION!
Do not make modifications or alterations to the immobilizer system. Modifications or alterations to the immobilization system may result in a loss of security protection.
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.
All of the Key Fobs provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
CAUTION!
Always remove the Key Fobs from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unat­tended.
For vehicles equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go™, always remember to place the ignition in the OFF position.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided with a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). Keep the PIN in a secure location. This number is required for authorized dealer replacement of Key Fobs.
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Duplication of Key Fobs may be performed at an autho­rized dealer. This procedure consists of programming a blank Key Fob to the vehicle electronics. A blank Key Fob is one that has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry Key® Immobilizer Sys­tem serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer.

Customer Key Programming

Programming Key Fobs or RKE transmitters may be performed at an authorized dealer.

General Information

The Sentry Key® system complies with FCC rules part 15 and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference that may be
received, including interference that may cause unde­sired operation.
NOTE: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

VEHICLE SECURITY ALARM — IF EQUIPPED

The Vehicle Security Alarm monitors the vehicle doors for unauthorized entry and the ignition switch (and Keyless Enter-N-Go™ Start/Stop button) for unauthor­ized operation. While the Vehicle Security Alarm is armed, interior switches for door locks and decklid release are disabled. If something triggers the alarm, the Vehicle Security Alarm will prevent the vehicle from starting and provide the following audible and visible signals: the horn will pulse, the park lamps and/or turn signals will flash, and the Vehicle Security Light in the instrument cluster will flash.

Rearming Of The System

If something triggers the alarm, and no action is taken to disarm it, the Vehicle Security Alarm will turn the horn off after three minutes, turn all of the visual signals off after 15 minutes, and then the Vehicle Security Alarm will rearm itself.

To Arm The System

Follow these steps to arm the Vehicle Security Alarm:
1. Remove the key from the ignition system (refer to
Starting Proceduresin Starting And Operatingfor further information).
For vehicles equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go™, make sure the vehicle ignition system is OFF.
For vehicles not equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go™, make sure the vehicle ignition system is OFFand the key is physically removed from the ignition.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
2. Perform one of the following methods to lock the vehicle:
Press LOCK on the interior power door lock switch
with the driver and/or passenger door open.
Press the LOCK button on the exterior Passive Entry
Door Handle with a valid FOB available in the same exterior zone (refer to Keyless Enter-N-Go™in Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehiclefor further infor­mation).
Press the LOCK button on the Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) transmitter.

To Disarm The System

The Vehicle Security Alarm can be disarmed using any of the following methods:
Press the UNLOCK button on the Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) transmitter.
2
20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Grasp the Passive Entry Unlock Door Handle if equipped, refer to “Keyless Enter-N-Go™” in “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.
Cycle the vehicle ignition system out of the OFF position.
For vehicles equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go™, press the Keyless Enter-N-Go™ START/STOP button (requires at least one valid Key Fob in the vehicle).
For vehicles not equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go™, insert a valid key into the ignition switch and turn the key to the ON position.
NOTE:
The driver’s door key cylinder and the trunk button on the RKE transmitter cannot arm or disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm.
When the Vehicle Security Alarm is armed, the interior power door lock switches will not unlock the doors.
The Vehicle Security Alarm is designed to protect your vehicle; however, you can create conditions where the system will give you a false alarm. If one of the previ­ously described arming sequences has occurred, the Vehicle Security Alarm will arm regardless of whether you are in the vehicle or not. If you remain in the vehicle and open a door, the alarm will sound. If this occurs, disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm.
If the Vehicle Security Alarm is armed and the battery becomes disconnected, the Vehicle Security Alarm will remain armed when the battery is reconnected; the exterior lights will flash, the horn will sound. If this occurs, disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm.

Tamper Alert

If something has triggered the Vehicle Security Alarm in your absence, the horn will sound three times and the exterior lights will blink three times when you disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm. Check the vehicle for tampering.

ILLUMINATED ENTRY — IF EQUIPPED

The courtesy lights will turn on when you use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to unlock the doors or open any door.
This feature also turns on the approach lighting in the outside mirrors (if equipped). Refer to “Mirrors” in “Understanding The Features Of Your Vehicle” for fur­ther information.
The lights will fade to off after approximately 30 seconds or they will immediately fade to off once the ignition is cycled to the ON/RUN position from the OFF position.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21
NOTE:
The front courtesy overhead console and door cour­tesy lights will turn on if the dimmer control is in the “Dome ON” position (extreme top position).
The Illuminated Entry system will not operate if the dimmer control is in the “Dome defeat” position (extreme bottom position).

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE)

The RKE system allows you to lock or unlock the doors, open the trunk, or activate the Panic Alarm from dis­tances up to approximately 66 ft (20 m) using a hand-held Key Fob with RKE transmitter. The RKE transmitter does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system.
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22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
NOTE: Driving at speeds 5 mph (8 km/h) and above disables the system from responding to all RKE transmit­ter buttons for all RKE transmitters.
Key Fob With RKE Transmitter

To Unlock The Doors

Push and release the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter once to unlock the driver’s door or twice within five seconds to unlock all doors. The turn signal lights will flash to acknowledge the unlock signal. The illuminated entry system will also turn on.
If the vehicle is equipped with Passive Entry, refer to Keyless Enter-N-Go™ under “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.
1st Push Of Key Fob Unlocks
This feature lets you program the system to unlock either the driver’s door or all doors on the first push of the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter. To change the current setting, refer to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Under­standing Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
Flash Lights With Lock
This feature will cause the signal lights to flash when the doors are locked with the RKE transmitter. This feature can be turned on or turned off. To change the current setting, refer to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
Headlight Illumination On Approach
This feature activates the headlights for up to 90 seconds when the doors are unlocked with the RKE transmitter. The time for this feature is programmable on vehicles equipped through Uconnect®. To change the current setting, refer to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information.

To Lock The Doors

Push and release the LOCK button on the RKE transmit­ter to lock all doors. The turn signal lights will flash and the horn will chirp to acknowledge the signal.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23
If the vehicle is equipped with Passive Entry, refer to “Keyless Enter-N-Go™” under “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.
Sound Horn With Lock
This feature will cause the horn to chirp when the doors are locked with the RKE transmitter. This feature can be turned on or turned off. To change the current setting, refer to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information.

To Unlatch The Trunk

Push the TRUNK button on the RKE transmitter two times within five seconds to unlatch the trunk.
If the vehicle is equipped with Passive Entry, refer to Keyless Enter-N-Go™ under “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.
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24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Using The Panic Alarm

To turn the Panic Alarm feature on or off, push and hold the PANIC button on the RKE transmitter for at least one second and release. When the Panic Alarm is on, the headlights, park lights and turn signals will flash, the horn will pulse on and off, and the interior lights will turn on.
The Panic Alarm will stay on for three minutes unless you turn it off by either pushing the PANIC button a second time or drive the vehicle at a speed of 15 mph (24 km/h) or greater.
You may need to be less than 35 ft (11 m) from the vehicle when using the RKE transmitter to turn off the Panic Alarm due to the radio frequency noises emitted by the system.

Programming Additional Transmitters

Programming Key Fobs or RKE transmitters may be performed at an authorized dealer.

Transmitter Battery Replacement

The recommended replacement battery is one CR2032 battery.
NOTE:
The interior lights will turn off if you cycle the ignition switch to the ACC or ON/RUN position while the Panic Alarm is activated. However, the exterior lights and horn will remain on.
NOTE:
Perchlorate Material — special handling may apply. See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate
Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back housing or the printed circuit board.
1. Remove the emergency key by sliding the mechanical latch on the back of the RKE transmitter sideways with your thumb and then pull the key out with your other hand.
Emergency Key Removal
2. Insert the tip of the emergency key or a #2 flat blade screwdriver into the slot and gently pry the two halves
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25
of the RKE transmitter apart. Make sure not to damage the seal during removal.
2
Separating The RKE Transmitter Case
3. Remove the battery by turning the back cover over (battery facing downward) and tapping it lightly on a solid surface such as a table or similar, then replace the battery. When replacing the battery, match the + sign
26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
on the battery to the + sign on the inside of the battery clip, located on the back cover. Avoid touching the new battery with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol.
4. To assemble the RKE transmitter case, snap the two halves together.

General Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and RSS 210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
This device may not cause harmful interference.
NOTE: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
If your RKE transmitter fails to operate from a normal distance, check for these two conditions:
1. A weak battery in the transmitter. The expected life of the battery is a minimum of three years.
2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station tower, airport transmitter, and some mobile or CB radios.

REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired op­eration.
This system uses the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to start the engine conve­niently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of
approximately 300 ft (91 m).
NOTE:
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27
Battery at an acceptable charge level
The vehicle must be equipped with an automatic
transmission to be equipped with Remote Start.
Obstructions between the vehicle and RKE transmitter may reduce this range.

How To Use Remote Start

All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will remote start:
Shift lever in PARK
Doors closed
Hood closed
Trunk closed
Hazard switch off
Brake switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
RKE panic button not pushed
System not disabled from previous remote start event
Vehicle security alarm not active
Ignition in OFF position
WARNING!
Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains Carbon Mon­oxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Carbon Monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious in­jury or death when inhaled.
Keep Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitters away from children. Operation of the Remote Start System, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.
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28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Remote Start Abort Message On Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) — If Equipped
The following messages will display in the EVIC if the vehicle fails to remote start or exits remote start prema­turely:
Remote Start Aborted — Door Ajar
Remote Start Aborted — Hood Ajar
Remote Start Aborted — Trunk Ajar
Remote Start Aborted — Fuel Low
Remote Start Disabled — Start Vehicle To Reset
The EVIC message stays active until the ignition is cycled to the ON/RUN position.
To Enter Remote Start Mode
Press and release the REMOTE START button on the RKE transmitter twice within five sec­onds. The vehicle doors will lock, parking
lights will flash and the horn will chirp twice (if programmed). Then, the engine will start and the vehicle will remain in the Remote Start mode for a 15-minute cycle.
NOTE:
If an engine fault is present or fuel level is low, the
vehicle will start and then shut down in 10 seconds.
The park lamps will turn on and remain on during
Remote Start mode.
For security, power window and power sunroof op­eration (if equipped) are disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode.
The engine can be started two consecutive times (two 15-minute cycles) with the RKE transmitter. However, the ignition must be cycled to the RUN position before you can repeat the start sequence for a third cycle.
To Exit Remote Start Mode Without Driving The Vehicle
Push and release the REMOTE START button one time or allow the engine to run for the entire 15-minute cycle.
NOTE: To avoid unintentional shutdowns, the system will disable the one time push of the REMOTE START button for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29
To Exit Remote Start Mode And Drive The Vehicle
Before the end of 15-minute cycle, push and release the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter to unlock the doors and disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm (if equipped). Then, prior to the end of the 15-minute cycle, push and release the START/STOP button.
NOTE: The message “Push Start Button” will display in the EVIC until you push the START button.
DOOR LOCKS Manual Door Locks
To lock each door, push the door lock knob on each door trim panel downward. To unlock the front doors, pull the inside door handle to the first detent. To unlock the rear doors, pull the door lock knob on the door trim panel upward.
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30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Door Lock Knob
If the door lock knob is down when you shut the door, the door will lock. Therefore, make sure the Key Fob is not inside the vehicle before closing the door.
WARNING!
For personal security and safety in the event of a collision, lock the vehicle doors before you drive as well as when you park and leave the vehicle.
When leaving 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 shift lever.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
Do not leave the Key Fob in or near the vehicle, or in a location accessible to children, and do not leave the ignition of a vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go™ in the ACC or ON/RUN mode. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.

Power Door Locks

A power door lock switch is on each front door trim panel. Use this switch to lock or unlock the doors.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31
2
Power Door Lock Switch
The doors can also be locked and unlocked with the Keyless Enter-N-Go™ (Passive Entry) system. For further information, refer to Keyless Enter-N-Go™ under “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.
32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
If you press the power door lock switch while the ignition is in the ACC or ON/RUN position, and any front door is open, the power locks will not operate. This prevents you from accidentally locking the Key Fob in the vehicle. Cycling the ignition to the OFF position or closing the door will allow the locks to operate. If a door is open, and the ignition is in the ACC or ON/RUN position, a chime will sound as a reminder to remove the Key Fob.
Automatic Door Locks — If Equipped
The auto door lock feature default condition is enabled. When enabled, the door locks will lock automatically when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 15 mph (24 km/h). The auto door lock feature can be enabled or disabled by your authorized dealer per written request of the customer. Please see your authorized dealer for service.
Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit
The doors will unlock automatically on vehicles with power door locks if:
1. The Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit feature is en­abled.
2. The vehicle was in motion, then speed returned to 0 mph (0 km/h) and the transmission shift lever is placed in PARK.
3. The driver door is opened.
4. The doors were not previously unlocked.
Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit Programming
To change the current setting, refer to “Uconnect® Set­tings” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
NOTE: Use the Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit feature in accordance with local laws.

Child-Protection Door Lock System — Rear Doors

To provide a safer environment for small children riding in the rear seats, the rear doors are equipped with Child-Protection Door Lock system.
To Engage Or Disengage The Child-Protection Door Lock System
1. Open the rear door.
2. Insert the tip of the emergency key into the lock and rotate to the LOCK or UNLOCK position.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the opposite rear door.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33
2
Child-Protection Door Lock Function
WARNING!
Avoid trapping anyone in a vehicle in a collision. Remember that the rear doors can only be opened from the outside when the Child-Protection locks are engaged (locked).
34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
NOTE: For emergency exit from the rear seats when the Child-Protection Door Lock System is engaged, manually raise the door lock knob to the unlocked position, roll down the window, and open the door using the outside door handle.

KEYLESS ENTER-N-GO™

The Passive Entry system is an enhancement to the vehicle’s Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system and a feature of Keyless Enter-N-Go™ . This feature allows you to lock and unlock the vehicle’s door(s) without having to press the RKE transmitter lock or unlock buttons.
NOTE:
Passive Entry may be programmed ON/OFF; refer to
“Uconnect® Settings” in “Understanding Your Instru­ment Panel” for further information.
If wearing gloves on your hands, or if it has been raining on the Passive Entry door handle, the unlock sensitivity can be affected, resulting in a slower re­sponse time.
If the vehicle is unlocked by the Passive Entry Door Handle and no door goes ajar within 60 seconds, the vehicle will re-lock and if equipped will arm the security alarm.
To Unlock From The Driver’s Side
With a valid Passive Entry RKE transmitter within 5 ft (1.5 m) of the driver’s door handle, grab the front driver door handle to unlock the driver’s door automatically. The interior door panel lock knob will raise when the door is unlocked.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35
To Unlock From The Passenger Side
With a valid Passive Entry RKE transmitter within 5 ft (1.5 m) of the passenger door handle, grab the front passenger door handle to unlock all four doors automati­cally. The interior door panel lock knob will raise when the door is unlocked.
NOTE: All doors will unlock when the front passenger door handle is grabbed regardless of the driver’s door unlock preference setting (“Unlock Driver Door 1st Press” or “Unlock All Doors 1st Press”).
2
Grab The Door Handle To Unlock
NOTE: If “Unlock All Doors 1st Press” is programmed all
doors will unlock when you grab hold of the front driver’s door handle. To select between “Unlock Driver Door 1st Press” and “Unlock All Doors 1st Press”, refer to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Understanding Your Instru­ment Panel” for further information.
Preventing Inadvertent Locking Of Passive Entry RKE Transmitter In Vehicle
To minimize the possibility of unintentionally locking a Passive Entry RKE transmitter inside your vehicle, the Passive Entry system is equipped with an automatic door unlock feature which will function if the ignition is in the OFF position.
36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
If one of the vehicle doors is open and the door panel switch is used to lock the vehicle, once all open doors have been closed the vehicle checks the inside and outside of the vehicle for any valid Passive Entry RKE transmitters. If one of the vehicle’s Passive Entry RKE transmitters is detected inside the vehicle, and no other valid Passive Entry RKE transmitters are detected out­side the vehicle, the Passive Entry System automatically unlocks all vehicle doors and chirps the horn three times (on the third attempt ALL doors will lock and the Passive Entry RKE transmitter can be locked in the vehicle).
NOTE: The vehicle will only unlock the doors when the doors are locked using the door panel switch, a valid Passive Entry RKE transmitter is detected inside the vehicle, and no valid Passive Entry RKE transmitter is detected outside the vehicle. The vehicle will not unlock the doors when any of the following conditions are true:
The doors are locked using the RKE transmitter.
The doors are locked using the LOCK button on the
Passive Entry door handles.
The doors are manually locked using the door lock knobs.
There is a valid Passive Entry RKE transmitter outside the vehicle and within 5 ft (1.5 m) of either Passive Entry door handle.
Three attempts are made to lock the doors using the door panel switch and then close the doors.
To Enter The Trunk
With a valid Passive Entry RKE transmitter within 3 ft (1.0 m) of the deck lid, press the button on the right side of CHMSL, (Center High Mounted Stop Light) which is located on the deck lid.
Trunk Passive Entry Button
NOTE: If you inadvertently leave your vehicle’s Passive
Entry RKE transmitter in the trunk and try to close the deck lid, the deck lid will automatically unlatch, unless another one of the vehicle’s Passive Entry RKE transmit­ters is outside the vehicle and within 3 ft (1.0 m) of the deck lid.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37
To Lock The Vehicle’s Doors
With one of the vehicle’s Passive Entry RKE transmitters within 5 ft (1.5 m) of the driver or passenger front door handles, press the door handle LOCK button to lock all four doors.
Press The Door Handle Button To Lock
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38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Do NOT grab the door handle, when pressing the door handle lock button. This could unlock the door(s).
DO NOT Grab The Door Handle When Locking
NOTE:
After pressing the door handle LOCK button, you must wait two seconds before you can lock or unlock the doors, using either Passive Entry door handle. This is done to allow you to check if the vehicle is locked by pulling the door handle, without the vehicle reacting and unlocking.
The Passive Entry system will not operate if the RKE transmitter battery is dead.
The vehicle doors can also be locked by using the RKE transmitter lock button or the lock button located on the vehicle’s interior door panel.
WINDOWS Power Windows
The window controls on the driver’s door control all the door windows.
Power Window Switches
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39
There are single window controls on each passenger door trim panel, which operate the passenger door windows. The window controls will operate only when the ignition is in the ACC or ON/RUN position.
NOTE: For vehicles equipped with the Uconnect®, the power window switches will remain active for up to 10 minutes after the ignition is cycled to the OFF position. Opening either front door will cancel this feature. The time is programmable. Refer to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further in­formation.
WARNING!
Never leave children unattended in a vehicle, and do not let children play with power windows. Do not leave the Key Fob in or near the vehicle, or in a location accessible to children, and do not leave the
(Continued)
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40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
ignition of a vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter-N­Go™ in the ACC or ON/RUN mode. Occupants, particularly unattended children, can become en­trapped by the windows while operating the power window switches. Such entrapment may result in serious injury or death.
AUTO-Down Feature
The driver door power window switch and some model passenger door power window switches have an AUTO­down feature. Press the window switch to the second detent, release, and the window will go down automati­cally.
To open the window part way, press the window switch to the first detent and release it when you want the window to stop.
To stop the window from going all the way down during the AUTO-down operation, pull up on the switch briefly.
AUTO-Up Feature With Anti-Pinch Protection — If Equipped
Lift the window switch to the second detent, release, and the window will go up automatically.
To stop the window from going all the way up during the AUTO-up operation, push down on the switch briefly.
To close the window part way, lift the window switch to the first detent and release it when you want the window to stop.
NOTE:
If the window runs into any obstacle during auto­closure, it will reverse direction and then go back down. Remove the obstacle and use the window switch again to close the window.
Any impact due to rough road conditions may trigger the auto-reverse function unexpectedly during auto­closure. If this happens, pull the switch lightly to the first detent and hold to close the window manually.
WARNING!
There is no anti-pinch protection when the window is almost closed. Be sure to clear all objects from the window before closing.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41
Reset Auto-Up
Should the Auto Up feature stop working, the window may need to be reset. To reset Auto Up:
1. Make sure the door is fully closed.
2. Pull the window switch up to close the window completely and continue to hold the switch up for an additional two seconds after the window is closed.
3. Push the window switch down firmly to the second detent to open the window completely and continue to hold the switch down for an additional two seconds after the window is fully open.
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42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Window Lockout Switch
The window lockout switch on the driver’s door trim panel allows you to disable the window controls on the rear passenger doors and the rear sunscreen (if equipped). To disable the window controls and the rear sunscreen, press and release the window lockout button (setting it in the DOWN position). To enable the window controls and the rear sunscreen, press and release the window lockout button again (setting it in the UP position).
Window Lockout Switch

Wind Buffeting

Wind buffeting can be described as the perception of pressure on the ears or a helicopter-type sound in the ears. Your vehicle may exhibit wind buffeting with the windows down, or the sunroof (if equipped) in certain
open or partially open positions. This is a normal occur­rence and can be minimized. If the buffeting occurs with the rear windows open, then open the front and rear windows together to minimize the buffeting. If the buffeting occurs with the sunroof open, adjust the sun­roof opening to minimize the buffeting.

TRUNK LOCK AND RELEASE

The trunk lid can be released from inside the vehicle by pressing the TRUNK RELEASE button located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43
NOTE: The transmission must be in PARK before the button will operate.
The trunk lid can be released from outside the vehicle by pressing the TRUNK button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter twice within five seconds or by using the external release switch located on the underside of the
Trunk Release
Button
decklid overhang. The release fea­ture will function only when the vehicle is in the unlock condition.
With the ignition in the ON/RUN position, the Trunk Open symbol will display in the instrument cluster indicating that the trunk is open. The odometer display will reappear once the trunk is closed.
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44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
With the ignition in the OFF position, the Trunk Open symbol will display until the trunk is closed.
Refer to “Keyless Enter-N-Go™” in “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for more information on trunk operation with the Passive Entry feature.

TRUNK SAFETY WARNING

WARNING!
Do not allow children to have access to the trunk, either by climbing into the trunk from outside, or through the inside of the vehicle. Always close the trunk lid when your vehicle is unattended. Once in the trunk, young children may not be able to escape, even if they entered through the rear seat. If trapped in the trunk, children can die from suffocation or heat stroke.

Trunk Emergency Release

As a security measure, a Trunk Internal Emergency Release lever is built into the trunk latching mechanism. In the event of an individual being locked inside the trunk, the trunk can be simply opened by pulling on the glow-in-the­dark handle attached to the trunk latching mechanism.
Trunk Emergency Internal Release

OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

Some of the most important safety features in your vehicle are the restraint systems:
Three-point lap and shoulder belts for the driver and all passengers
Advanced Front Air Bags for driver and front passen­ger
Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag
Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC)
for the driver and passengers seated next to a window
Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB)
An energy-absorbing steering column and steering
wheel
Knee bolsters/blockers for front seat occupants
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45
Front seat belts incorporate pretensioners that may enhance occupant protection by managing occupant energy during an impact event
Active Hood System
All seat belt systems (except the driver’s) include
Automatic Locking Retractors (ALRs), which lock the seat belt webbing into position by extending the belt all the way out and then adjusting the belt to the desired length to restrain a child seat or secure a large item in a seat — if equipped
Please pay close attention to the information in this section. It tells you how to use your restraint system properly, to keep you and your passengers as safe as possible.
If you will be carrying children too small for adult-sized seat belts, the seat belts or the Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH) feature also can be used to hold
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46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
infant and child restraint systems. For more information on LATCH, refer to Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH).
NOTE: The Advanced Front Air Bags have a multistage inflator design. This allows the air bag to have different rates of inflation based on several factors, including the severity and type of collision.
Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize the risk of harm from a deploying air bag:
1. Children 12 years old and under should always ride
buckled up in a rear seat.
WARNING!
Never place a rear facing infant seat in front of an
air bag. A deploying Passenger Advanced Front Air Bag can cause death or serious injury to a child 12 years or younger, including a child in a rearward facing infant seat.
Only use a rearward-facing child restraint in a vehicle with a rear seat.
Children that are not big enough to wear the vehicle seat belt properly (see section on Child Restraints) should be secured in the rear seat in child restraints or belt­positioning booster seats. Older children who do not use child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats should ride properly buckled up in the rear seat. Never allow children to slide the shoulder belt behind them or under their arm.
If a child from 2 to 12 years old (not in a rear facing child seat) must ride in the front passenger seat, move the seat as far back as possible and use the proper child restraint. (Refer to “Child Restraints”).
You should read the instructions provided with your child restraint to make sure that you are using it properly.
2. All occupants should always wear their lap and
shoulder belts properly.
3. The driver and front passenger seats should be
moved back as far as practical to allow the Advanced Front Air Bags room to inflate.
4. Do not lean against the door or window. Your vehicle
has Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC) or Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB), and if deployment occurs, the SABIC and SAB air bags will inflate forcefully into the space between you and the door.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 47
5. If the air bag system in this vehicle needs to be
modified to accommodate a disabled person, contact the Customer Center. Phone numbers are provided under If You Need Assistance.
WARNING!
Relying on the air bags alone could lead to more severe injuries in a collision. The air bags work with your seat belt to restrain you properly. In some collisions, the air bags won’t deploy at all. Always wear your seat belts even though you have air bags.
(Continued)
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48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
Being too close to the steering wheel or instrument panel during Advanced Front Air Bag deployment could cause serious injury, including death. Air bags need room to inflate. Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to reach the steering wheel or instrument panel.
Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) and Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB) also need room to inflate. Do not lean against the door or window. Sit upright in the center of the seat.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
In a collision, you and your passengers can suffer much greater injuries if you are not properly buck­led up. You can strike the interior of your vehicle or other passengers, or you can be thrown out of the vehicle. Always be sure you and others in your vehicle are buckled up properly.
Being too close to the Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) and/or Seat-Mounted Side Air Bag (SAB) during deployment could cause you to be severely injured or killed.
Buckle up even though you are an excellent driver, even on short trips. Someone on the road may be a poor driver and cause a collision that includes you. This can happen far away from home or on your own street.
Research has shown that seat belts save lives, and they can reduce the seriousness of injuries in a collision. Some of the worst injuries happen when people are thrown from the vehicle. Seat belts reduce the possibility of ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should be belted at all times.

Lap/Shoulder Belts

All seating positions in your vehicle are equipped with lap/shoulder belts.
The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during very sudden stops or impacts. This feature allows the shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under normal conditions. However, in an collision, the belt will lock and reduce your risk of striking the inside of the vehicle or being thrown out.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49
WARNING!
Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts.
Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a seat belt properly.
Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seat belts are designed to go around the large bones of your body. These are the strongest parts of your body and can take the forces of a collision best.
Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make your injuries in a collision much worse. You might suffer internal injuries, or you could even slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instructions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep your passengers safe, too.
(Continued)
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50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
Two people should never be belted into a single seat belt. People belted together can crash into one another in a collision, hurting one another badly. Never use a lap/shoulder belt or a lap belt for more than one person, no matter what their size.
Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions
1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and adjust the seat.
Pulling Out The Lap/Shoulder Belt Latch Plate
2. The seat belt latch plate is above the back of your seat. Grasp the latch plate and pull out the belt. Slide the latch plate up the webbing as far as necessary to make the belt go around your lap.
3. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.”
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51
WARNING!
A belt that is buckled into the wrong buckle will
not protect you properly. The lap portion could ride too high on your body, possibly causing internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.
A belt that is too loose will not protect you prop­erly. In a sudden stop, you could move too far forward, increasing the possibility of injury. Wear your seat belt snugly.
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Inserting Latch Plate Into Buckle
(Continued)
52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
A belt that is worn under your arm is dangerous. Your body could strike the inside surfaces of the vehicle in a collision, increasing head and neck injury. A belt worn under the arm can cause inter­nal injuries. Ribs aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. Wear the belt over your shoulder so that your strongest bones will take the force in a colli­sion.
A shoulder belt placed behind you will not protect you from injury during a collision. You are more likely to hit your head in a collision if you do not wear your shoulder belt. The lap and shoulder belt are meant to be used together.
4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull up a bit on the shoulder belt. To loosen the lap belt if it is too tight, tilt the latch plate and pull on the lap belt. A snug belt reduces the risk of sliding under the belt in a collision.
Removing Slack From Belt
WARNING!
A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of
internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as possible and keep it snug.
A twisted belt may not protect you properly. In a collision, it could even cut into you. Be sure the belt is straight. If you can’t straighten a belt in your vehicle, take it to your authorized dealer immedi­ately and have it fixed.
5. Position the shoulder belt on your chest so that it is comfortable and not resting on your neck. The retrac­tor will withdraw any slack in the belt.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53
6. To release the belt, push the red button on the buckle. The belt will automatically retract to its stowed posi­tion. If necessary, slide the latch plate down the webbing to allow the belt to retract fully.
WARNING!
A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision and leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they have been damaged (i.e., bent retractor, torn web­bing, etc.).
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54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage
In the driver and front passenger seats, the shoulder belt can be adjusted upward or downward to position the belt away from your neck. Push and fully depress the button above the webbing to release the anchorage, then move it up or down to the position that fits you best.
Adjusting Upper Shoulder Belt
As a guide, if you are shorter than average you will prefer a lower position, and if you are taller than average you will prefer a higher position. When you release the anchorage try to move it up and down to make sure that it is locked in position.
In the rear seat, move toward the center of the seat to position the belt away from your neck.

Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure

Use the following procedure to untwist a twisted lap/ shoulder belt.
1. Position the latch plate as close as possible to the anchor point.
2. At about 6 to 12 in (15 to 30 cm) above the latch plate, grasp and twist the belt webbing 180 degrees to create a fold that begins immediately above the latch plate.
3. Slide the latch plate upward over the folded webbing. The folded webbing must enter the slot at the top of the latch plate.
4. Continue to slide the latch plate up until it clears the folded webbing.

Seat Belts In Passenger Seating Positions

The seat belts in the passenger seating positions are equipped with Automatic Locking Retractors (ALR) which are used to secure a child restraint system. For additional information, refer to Child Restraints under “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information. The chart below defines the type of feature for each seating position.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55
Driver Center Passenger
First Row N/A N/A ALR
Second
Row
N/A — Not Applicable
ALR — Automatic Locking Retractor
If the passenger seating position is equipped with an ALR and is being used for normal usage:
Only pull the belt webbing out far enough to comfortably wrap around the occupant’s mid-section so as to not activate the ALR. If the ALR is activated, you will hear a ratcheting sound as the belt retracts. Allow the webbing to retract completely in this case and then carefully pull out only the amount of webbing necessary to comfort­ably wrap around the occupant’s mid-section. Slide the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a click.
ALR ALR ALR
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56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Automatic Locking Retractor Mode (ALR) — If Equipped

In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre­locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt. The Automatic Locking Mode is avail­able on all passenger-seating positions with a combina­tion lap/shoulder belt. Use the Automatic Locking Mode anytime a child safety seat is installed in a seating position that has a belt with this feature. Children 12 years old and under should always be properly re­strained in a vehicle with a rear seat.
How To Engage The Automatic Locking Mode
1. Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.
2. Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is extracted.
3. Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the Automatic Locking Mode.
How To Disengage The Automatic Locking Mode
Unbuckle the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the Automatic Locking Mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.
WARNING!
The belt and retractor assembly must be replaced if the seat belt assembly Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) feature or any other seat belt function is not working properly when checked according to the procedures in the Service Manual.
Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions.

Energy Management Feature

This vehicle has a safety belt system with an Energy Management feature in the front seating positions to help further reduce the risk of injury in the event of a head-on collision.
This safety belt system has a retractor assembly that is designed to release webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help reduce the belt force acting on the occupant’s chest.

Seat Belt Pretensioners

The seat belts for both front seating positions are equipped with pretensioning devices that are designed to remove slack from the seat belt in the event of a collision. These devices may improve the performance of the seat belt by assuring that the belt is tight about the occupant early in a collision. Pretensioners work for all size occu­pants, including those in child restraints.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57
NOTE: These devices are not a substitute for proper seat belt placement by the occupant. The seat belt still must be worn snugly and positioned properly.
The pretensioners are triggered by the Occupant Re­straint Controller (ORC). Like the air bags, the preten­sioners are single use items. A deployed pretensioner or a deployed air bag must be replaced immediately.

Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System (BeltAlert®)

BeltAlert® is a feature intended to remind the driver and front passenger (if equipped with front passenger BeltAlert®) to fasten their seat belts. The feature is active whenever the ignition is on. If the driver or front seat passenger is unbelted, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will turn on and remain on until both front seat belts are fastened.
The BeltAlert® warning sequence begins after the vehicle speed is over 5 mph (8 km/h), by blinking the Seat Belt
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58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Reminder Light and sounding an intermittent chime. Once the sequence starts, it will continue for the entire duration or until the respective seatbelts are fastened. After the sequence completes, the Seat Belt Reminder Light remains illuminated until the respective seat belts are fastened. The driver should instruct all other occu­pants to fasten their seat belts. If a front seat belt is unbuckled while traveling at speeds greater than 5 mph (8 km/h), BeltAlert® will provide both audio and visual notification.
The front passenger seat BeltAlert® is not active when the front passenger seat is unoccupied. BeltAlert® may be triggered when an animal or heavy object is on the front passenger seat or when the seat is folded flat (if equipped). It is recommended that pets be restrained in the rear seat (if equipped) in pet harnesses or pet carriers that are secured by seat belts, and cargo is properly stowed.
BeltAlert® can be enabled or disabled by your autho­rized dealer. Chrysler Group LLC does not recommend deactivating BeltAlert®.
NOTE: Although BeltAlert® has been deactivated, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will continue to illuminate while the driver’s or front passenger (if equipped with BeltAlert®) seat belt remains unfastened.

Seat Belts And Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use the seat belts throughout their pregnancy. Keeping the mother safe is the best way to keep the baby safe.
Pregnant women should wear the lap part of the belt across the thighs and as snug across the hips as possible. Keep the belt low so that it does not come across the abdomen. That way the strong bones of the hips will take the force if there is a collision.

Seat Belt Extender

If a seat belt is too short even when fully extended and when the adjustable upper shoulder belt anchorage (if so equipped) is in its lowest position, your authorized dealer can provide you with a seat belt extender. This extender should be used only if the existing belt is not long enough. When it is not required, remove the ex­tender and store it.
WARNING!
Using a seat belt extender when not needed can increase the risk of injury in a collision. Only use when the seat belt is not long enough when it is worn low and snug and in the recommended seating posi­tions. Remove and store the extender when not needed.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) — Air Bags

This vehicle has Advanced Front Air Bags for both the driver and front passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint systems. The driver’s Advanced Front Air Bag is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger’s Advanced Front Air Bag is mounted in the instrument panel, above the glove compartment. The words SRS AIRBAG are embossed on the air bag covers. In addition, the vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag mounted in the instrument panel below the steering column.
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60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Advanced Front Air Bag And Knee Bolster Locations
1 — Driver And Passenger Ad­vanced Front Air Bags 3 — Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag/Knee Bolster
2 — Knee Bolster
NOTE: The Driver and Front Passenger Advanced Front Air Bags are certified to the new Federal regulations for Advanced Air Bags.
The Advanced Front Air Bags have a multistage inflator design. This allows the air bag to have different rates of inflation based on several factors, including the severity and type of collision.
This vehicle may be equipped with driver and/or front passenger seat track position sensors that may adjust the inflation rate of the Advanced Front Air Bags based upon seat position.
This vehicle may be equipped with a driver and/or front passenger seat belt buckle switch that detects whether the driver or front passenger seat belt is fastened. The seat belt buckle switch may adjust the inflation rate of the Advanced Front Air Bags.
This vehicle is equipped with Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC) to protect the driver, front, and rear passengers sitting next to a window. The SABIC air bags are located above the side windows and their covers are labeled: SRS AIRBAG.
This vehicle is equipped with Supplemental Seat­Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB) to provide enhanced protection for an occupant during a side impact. The Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags are located in the outboard side of the front seats.
NOTE:
Air Bag covers may not be obvious in the interior trim, but they will open during air bag deployment.
After any collision, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized dealer immediately.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61
Air Bag System Components
Your vehicle may be equipped with the following air bag system components:
Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
Air Bag Warning Light
Steering Wheel and Column
Instrument Panel
Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag
Knee Impact Bolsters
Driver Advanced Front Air Bag
Passenger Advanced Front Air Bag
Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB)
Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC)
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62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Front and Side Impact Sensors
Front Seat Belt Pretensioners, Seat Belt Buckle Switch,
and Seat Track Position Sensors
Advanced Front Air Bag Features
The Advanced Front Air Bag system has multistage driver and front passenger air bags. This system provides output appropriate to the severity and type of collision as determined by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), which may receive information from the front impact sensors.
The first stage inflator is triggered immediately during an impact that requires air bag deployment. This low output is used in less severe collisions. A higher energy output is used for more severe collisions.
WARNING!
No objects should be placed over or near the air bag on the instrument panel, because any such objects could cause harm if the vehicle is in a collision severe enough to cause the air bag to inflate.
Do not put anything on or around the air bag covers or attempt to open them manually. You may damage the air bags and you could be injured because the air bags may no longer be functional. The protective covers for the air bag cushions are designed to open only when the air bags are inflating.
Do not drill, cut or tamper with the knee bolster in any way.
Do not mount any accessories to the knee bolster such as alarm lights, stereos, citizen band radios, etc.
Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB)
Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB) may provide enhanced protection to help protect an occupant during a side impact. The SAB is marked with an air bag label sewn into the outboard side of the front seats.
Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bag Label
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63
When the air bag deploys, it opens the seam between the front and side of the seat’s trim cover. Each air bag deploys independently; a left side impact deploys the left air bag only and a right-side impact deploys the right air bag only.
Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC)
SABIC air bags may offer side-impact protection to front and rear seat outboard occupants in addition to that provided by the body structure. Each air bag features inflated chambers placed adjacent to the head of each outboard occupant that reduce the potential for side­impact head injuries. The curtains deploy downward, covering both windows on the impact side.
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64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC)
Label Location
NOTE:
Air Bag covers may not be obvious in the interior trim, but they will open during air bag deployment.
Being too close to the side air bags during deployment could cause you to be severely injured or killed.
The system includes side impact sensors that are cali­brated to deploy the side air bags during impacts that require air bag occupant protection.
WARNING!
Your vehicle is equipped with left and right Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC), do not stack luggage or other cargo up high enough to block the location of the SABIC. The area where the SABIC is located should remain free from any obstructions.
Do not use accessory seat covers or place objects between you and the side air bags; the performance could be adversely affected and/or objects could be pushed into you, causing serious injury.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
Your vehicle is equipped with SABIC air bags, do not have any accessory items installed which will alter the roof, including adding a sunroof to your vehicle. Do not add roof racks that require perma­nent attachments (bolts or screws) for installation on the vehicle roof. Do not drill into the roof of the vehicle for any reason.
SAB and SABIC air bags are a supplement to the seat belt restraint system. Occupants, including children who are up against or very close to SAB or SABIC air bags can be seriously injured or killed. Occupants, especially chil­dren, should not lean on or sleep against the door, side windows, or area where the SAB or SABIC air bags inflate, even if they are in an infant or child restraint.
Always sit upright as possible with your back against the seat back, use the seat belts properly, and use the
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65
appropriate sized child restraint, infant restraint or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.
Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag
The Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag provides enhanced protection and works together with the Driver Advanced Front Air Bag during a frontal impact.
Knee Impact Bolsters
The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees of the driver and front passenger, and position the front occu­pants for the best interaction with the Advanced Front Air Bags.
Along with seat belts and pretensioners, Advanced Front Air Bags and the Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag work with the knee impact bolsters to provide improved protection for the driver and front passenger.
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66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Air Bag Deployment Sensors And Controls

Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
The ORC is part of a Federally regulated safety system required for this vehicle.
The ORC determines if deployment of the front and/or side air bags in a frontal or side collision is required. Based on the impact sensor’s signals, a central electronic ORC deploys the Advanced Front Air Bags, SABIC air bags, SAB, Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag, and front seat belt pretensioners, as required, depending on several factors, including the severity and type of impact.
Advanced Front Air Bags and Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag are designed to provide additional protec­tion by supplementing the seat belts in certain frontal collisions depending on several factors, including the severity and type of collision. Advanced Front Air Bags
and Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag are not expected to reduce the risk of injury in rear, side, or rollover collisions.
The Advanced Front Air Bags and Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag will not deploy in all frontal collisions, including some that may produce substantial vehicle damage — for example, some pole collisions, truck underrides, and angle offset collisions. On the other hand, depending on the type and location of impact, Advanced Front Air Bags and Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag may deploy in crashes with little vehicle front-end damage but that produce a severe initial decel­eration.
The side air bags will not deploy in all side collisions. Side air bag deployment will depend on the severity and type of collision.
Because air bag sensors measure vehicle deceleration over time, vehicle speed and damage by themselves are not good indicators of whether or not an air bag should have deployed.
Seat belts are necessary for your protection in all colli­sions, and also are needed to help keep you in position, away from an inflating air bag.
The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the air bag system whenever the ignition is in the START or ON/RUN position. If the ignition is in the OFF position or in the ACC position, the air bag system is not on and the air bags will not inflate.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67
The ORC contains a backup power supply system that may deploy the air bags even if the battery loses power or it becomes disconnected prior to deployment.
Also, the ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in the instrument panel for approxi­mately four to eight seconds for a self-check
when the ignition is first turned on. After the self-check, the Air Bag Warning Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the Air Bag Warning Light, either momentarily or continuously. A single chime will sound if the light comes on again after initial startup.
It also includes diagnostics that will illuminate the instru­ment cluster Air Bag Warning Light if a malfunction is noted that could affect the air bag system. The diagnos­tics also record the nature of the malfunction.
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68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING!
Ignoring the Air Bag Warning Light in your instru­ment panel could mean you won’t have the air bags to protect you in a collision. If the light does not come on as a bulb check when the ignition is first turned on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you drive, have an authorized dealer service the air bag system immediately.
Driver And Passenger Advanced Front Air Bag Inflator Units
The Driver and Passenger Advanced Front Air Bag Inflator Units are located in the center of the steering wheel and on the right side of the instrument panel. When the ORC detects a collision requiring the Ad­vanced Front Air Bags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of non-toxic gas is generated to inflate the Advanced Front Air Bags. Different air bag inflation rates
are possible, based on several factors, including the collision type and severity. The steering wheel hub trim cover and the upper right side of the instrument panel separate and fold out of the way as the air bags inflate to their full size. The air bags fully inflate in about 50 to 70 milliseconds. This is about half of the time it takes to blink your eyes. The air bags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and front passenger.
The Advanced Front Air Bag gas is vented through the vent holes in the sides of the air bag. In this way, the air bags do not interfere with your control of the vehicle.
Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag Inflator Unit
The Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag unit is located in the instrument panel trim beneath the steering column. When the ORC detects a collision requiring the Advanced Front Air Bags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of non-toxic gas is generated to inflate the
Supplemental Driver Side Knee Air Bag. The trim cover separates and folds out of the way allowing the air bag to inflate to the full size. The air bag fully inflates in about 15 to 20 milliseconds.
Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bag (SAB) Inflator Units
The Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Air Bags (SAB) are designed to activate only in certain side collisions.
The ORC determines if a side collision requires the side air bags to inflate, based on the severity and type of collision.
Based on the severity and type of collision, the side air bag inflator on the crash side of the vehicle may be triggered, releasing a large quantity of non-toxic gas. The inflating SAB exits through the seat seam into the space between the occupant and the door. The SAB fully inflates in about 10 milliseconds. The side air bag moves
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 69
at a very high speed and with such a high force that it could injure you if you are not seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area where the side air bag inflates. This especially applies to children.
Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) Inflator Units
During collisions where the impact is confined to a particular area of the side of the vehicle, the ORC may deploy the SABIC air bags, depending on the severity and type of collision. In these events, the ORC will deploy the SABIC only on the impact side of the vehicle.
A quantity of non-toxic gas is generated to inflate the side curtain air bag. The inflating side curtain air bag pushes the outside edge of the headliner out of the way and covers the window. The air bag inflates in about 30 milliseconds (about one-quarter of the time that it takes to blink your eyes) with enough force to injure you if you are not belted and seated properly, or if items are
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70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
positioned in the area where the side curtain air bag inflates. This especially applies to children. The side curtain air bag is only about 3-1/2 in (9 cm) thick when it is inflated.
Because air bag sensors estimate deceleration over time, vehicle speed and damage are not good indicators of whether or not an air bag should have deployed.
Front And Side Impact Sensors
In front and side impacts, impact sensors can aid the ORC in determining appropriate response to impact events.
Enhanced Accident Response System
In the event of an impact causing air bag deployment, if the communication network remains intact, and the power remains intact, depending on the nature of the
event the ORC will determine whether to have the Enhanced Accident Response System perform the follow­ing functions:
Cut off fuel to the engine.
Flash hazard lights as long as the battery has power or
until the ignition key is turned off.
Turn on the interior lights, which remain on as long as
the battery has power, until the ignition key is re­moved or the ignition switch is changed to OFF using the Keyless Go START/STOP button.
Unlock the doors automatically.
In order to reset the Enhanced Accident Response System functions after an event, the ignition switch must be changed from IGN ON to IGN OFF.
If A Deployment Occurs
The Advanced Front Air Bags are designed to deflate immediately after deployment.
NOTE: Front and/or side air bags will not deploy in all collisions. This does not mean something is wrong with the air bag system.
If you do have a collision which deploys the air bags, any or all of the following may occur:
The nylon air bag material may sometimes cause abrasions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front passenger as the air bags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals. They are not permanent and normally heal quickly.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 71
However, if you haven’t healed significantly within a few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately.
As the air bags deflate, you may see some smoke-like particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the process that generates the non-toxic gas used for air bag inflation. These airborne particles may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin or eye irritation, rinse the area with cool water. For nose or throat irritation, move to fresh air. If the irritation continues, see your doctor. If these particles settle on your clothing, follow the garment manufacturer’s in­structions for cleaning.
Do not drive your vehicle after the air bags have de­ployed. If you are involved in another collision, the air bags will not be in place to protect you.
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72 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING!
Maintaining Your Air Bag System
Deployed air bags and seat belt pretensioners cannot protect you in another collision. Have the air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and the front seat belt retrac­tor assemblies replaced by an authorized dealer im­mediately. Also, have the Occupant Restraint Con­troller (ORC) system serviced as well.
WARNING!
Modifications to any part of the air bag system could cause it to fail when you need it. You could be injured if the air bag system is not there to protect you. Do not modify the components or wiring, including adding any kind of badges or stickers to the steering wheel hub trim cover or the upper right side of the instrument panel. Do not modify the front bumper, vehicle body structure, or add aftermarket side steps or running boards.
It is dangerous to try to repair any part of the air bag system yourself. Be sure to tell anyone who works on your vehicle that it has an air bag system.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
Do not attempt to modify any part of your air bag system. The air bag may inflate accidentally or may not function properly if modifications are made. Take your vehicle to an authorized dealer for any air bag system service. If your seat, including your trim cover and cushion, needs to be serviced in any way (including removal or loosening/tightening of seat attachment bolts), take the vehicle to your authorized dealer. Only manufacturer approved seat accessories may be used. If it is necessary to modify the air bag system for persons with dis­abilities, contact your authorized dealer.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 73
Air Bag Warning Light
You will want to have the air bags ready to inflate for your protection in a collision. The Air Bag Warning Light monitors the internal
circuits and interconnecting wiring associated with air bag system electrical components. While the air bag system is designed to be maintenance free. If any of the following occurs, have an authorized dealer service the air bag system immediately.
The Air Bag Warning Light does not come on during
the four to eight seconds when the ignition is first cycled to the ON/RUN.
The Air Bag Warning Light remains on after the four to
eight-second interval.
The Air Bag Warning Light comes on intermittently or
remains on while driving.
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74 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
NOTE: If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine related gauges are not working, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may also be disabled. The air bags may not be ready to inflate for your protection. Promptly check the fuse block for blown fuses. Refer to “Fuses” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for the proper air bag fuses. See your authorized dealer if the fuse is good.
vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time, typically 30 seconds or less. The EDR in this vehicle is designed to record such data as:
How various systems in your vehicle were operating;
Whether or not the driver and passenger safety belts
were buckled/fastened;

Event Data Recorder (EDR)

This vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder (EDR). The main purpose of an EDR is to record, in certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as an air bag deployment or hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in understanding how a vehicle’s systems per­formed. The EDR is designed to record data related to
How far (if at all) the driver was depressing the
accelerator and/or brake pedal; and,
How fast the vehicle was traveling.
These data can help provide a better understanding of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur.
NOTE: EDR data are recorded by your vehicle only if a non-trivial crash situation occurs; no data are recorded by the EDR under normal driving conditions and no per­sonal data (e.g., name, gender, age, and crash location) are recorded. However, other parties, such as law en­forcement, could combine the EDR data with the type of personally identifying data routinely acquired during a crash investigation.
To read data recorded by an EDR, special equipment is required, and access to the vehicle or the EDR is needed. In addition to the vehicle manufacturer, other parties, such as law enforcement, that have the special equip­ment, can read the information if they have access to the vehicle or the EDR.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 75

Child Restraints

Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up at all times, including babies and children. Every state in the United States, and every Canadian province, requires that small children ride in proper restraint systems. This is the law, and you can be prosecuted for ignoring it.
Children 12 years or younger should ride properly buckled up in a rear seat, if available. According to crash statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seats rather than in the front.
There are different sizes and types of restraints for children from newborn size to the child almost large enough for an adult safety belt. Always check the child seat Owner’s Manual to make sure you have the correct seat for your child. Carefully read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the child restraint Owner’s Manual and on all the labels attached to the car seat.
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76 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety Standards. You should also make sure that you can install it in the vehicle where you will use it.
NOTE:
For additional information, refer to www.seatcheck.org or call 1–866–SEATCHECK. Cana­dian residents should refer to Transport Canada’s website for additional information:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/safedrivers­childsafety-index-53.htm
WARNING!
In a collision, an unrestrained child can become a projectile inside the vehicle. The force required to hold even an infant on your lap could become so great that you could not hold the child, no matter how strong you are. The child and others could be badly injured. Any child riding in your vehicle should be in a proper restraint for the child’s size.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 77
Summary Of Recommendations For Restraining Children In Vehicles
Child Size, Height, Weight Or Age Recommended Type Of Child Restraint
Infants and Toddlers Children who are two years old or
younger and who have not reached the
height or weight limits of their child
restraint
Small Children Children who are at least two years old
or who have out-grown the height or weight limit of their rear-facing child
restraint
Larger Children Children who have out-grown their
forward-facing child restraint, but are
too small to properly fit the vehicle’s
seat belt
Children Too Large for
Child Restraints
Children 12 years old or younger, who
have out-grown the height or weight
limit of their booster seat
Either an Infant Carrier or a Convertible
five-point Harness, facing forward in the
Vehicle Seat Belt, seated in the rear seat
Child Restraint, facing rearward in the
2
rear seat of the vehicle
Forward-Facing Child Restraint with a
rear seat of the vehicle
Belt Positioning Booster Seat and the
vehicle seat belt, seated in the rear seat
of the vehicle
of the vehicle
78 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Infants And Child Restraints
Safety experts recommend that children ride rearward­facing in the vehicle until they are two years old or until they reach either the height or weight limit of their rear facing child safety seat. Two types of child restraints can be used rearward-facing: infant carriers and convertible child seats.
The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the vehicle. It is recommended for children from birth until they reach the weight or height limit of the infant carrier. Convertible child seats can be used either rearward­facing or forward-facing in the vehicle. Convertible child seats often have a higher weight limit in the rearward­facing direction than infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing by children who have outgrown
their infant carrier but are still less than at least two years old. Children should remain rearward-facing until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their convertible child seat.
WARNING!
Never place a rear facing infant seat in front of an air bag. A deploying Passenger Advanced Front Air Bag can cause death or serious injury to a child 12 years or younger, including a child in a rearward facing infant seat.
Only use a rearward-facing child restraint in a vehicle with a rear seat.
Older Children And Child Restraints
Children who are two years old or who have outgrown their rear-facing convertible child seat can ride forward­facing in the vehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible child seats used in the forward-facing direc­tion are for children who are over two years old or who have outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit of their rear-facing convertible child seat. Children should remain in a forward-facing child seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by the child seat.
All children whose weight or height is above the forward-facing limit for the child seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle’s seat belts fit properly. If the child cannot sit with knees bent over
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 79
the vehicle’s seat cushion while the child’s back is against the seatback, they should use a belt-positioning booster seat. The child and belt-positioning booster seat are held in the vehicle by the seat belt.
WARNING!
Improper installation can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. It could come loose in a collision. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the child restraint manufacturer’s directions exactly when installing an infant or child restraint.
(Continued)
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80 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
After a child restraint is installed in the vehicle, do not move the vehicle seat forward or rearward because it can loosen the child restraint attach­ments. Remove the child restraint before adjusting the vehicle seat position. When the vehicle seat has been adjusted, reinstall the child restraint.
When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the vehicle with the seat belt or LATCH anchor­ages, or remove it from the vehicle. Do not leave it loose in the vehicle. In a sudden stop or accident, it could strike the occupants or seatbacks and cause serious personal injury.
Children Too Large For Booster Seats
Children who are large enough to wear the shoulder belt comfortably, and whose legs are long enough to bend over the front of the seat when their back is against the seatback, should use the seat belt in a rear seat. Use this simple 5-step test to decide whether the child can use the vehicle’s seat belt alone:
1. Can the child sit all the way back against the back of the vehicle seat?
2. Do the child’s knees bend comfortably over the front of the vehicle seat – while they are still sitting all the way back?
3. Does the shoulder belt cross the child’s shoulder between their neck and arm?
4. Is the lap part of the belt as low as possible, touching the child’s thighs and not their stomach?
5. Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip?
If the answer to any of these questions was “no,” then the child still needs to use a booster seat in this vehicle. If the child is using the lap/shoulder belt, check belt fit peri­odically and make sure the seat belt buckle is latched. A child’s squirming or slouching can move the belt out of position. If the shoulder belt contacts the face or neck, move the child closer to the center of the vehicle, or use a booster seat to position the seat belt on the child correctly.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 81
WARNING!
Never allow a child to put the shoulder belt under an arm or behind their back. In a crash, the shoulder belt will not protect a child properly, which may result in serious injury or death. A child must always wear both the lap and shoulder portions of the seat belt correctly.
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82 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Recommendations For Attaching Child Restraints
Restraint Type
Rear-Facing
Child Restraint
Rear-Facing
Child Restraint
Forward-Facing
Child Restraint
Forward-Facing
Child Restraint
Combined Weight of the Child + Child
Restraint
Up to 65 lbs
(29.5 kg)
More than
65 lbs (29.5 kg)
Up to 65 lbs
(29.5 kg)
More than
65 lbs (29.5 kg)
Use any attachment method shown with an “X” Below
LATCH –
Lower Anchors
Only
XX
Seat Belt Only
X
LATCH –
Lower Anchors
+ Top Tether
Anchor
XX
Seat Belt + Top
Tether Anchor
X
Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children (LATCH) Restraint System
Your vehicle is equipped with the child restraint anchor­age system called LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren. The LATCH system
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 83
has three vehicle anchor points for installing LATCH­equipped child seats. There are two lower anchorages located at the back of the seat cushion where it meets the seatback and one top tether anchorage located behind the seating position. These anchorages are used to install LATCH-equipped child seats without using the vehicle’s seat belts. Some seating positions may have a top tether anchorage but no lower anchorages. In these seating positions, the seat belt must be used with the top tether anchorage to install the child restraint. Please see the following table for more information.
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84 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
LATCH Positions For Installing Child Restraints In This Vehicle
Lower Anchorage Symbol 2 anchorages per seating
position
Top Tether Anchorage Symbol
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 85
What is the weight limit (child’s weight + weight of the child restraint) for using the LATCH anchorage system to attach the child restraint?
Can the LATCH anchorages and the seat
belt be used together to attach a rear-
facing or forward-facing child restraint?
Can a child seat be installed in the center
position using the inner LATCH lower an-
chorages?
65 lbs (29.5 kg) Use the LATCH anchorage system until
the combined weight of the child and the
child restraint is 65 lbs (29.5 kg). Use the
seat belt and tether anchor instead of the
LATCH system once the combined weight
is more than 65 lbs (29.5 kg).
No Do not use the seat belt when you use the
LATCH anchorage system to attach a rear-
facing or forward-facing child restraint.
N/A
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86 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Can two child restraints be attached using
No Never “share” a LATCH anchorage with
a common lower LATCH anchorage?
Can the rear-facing child restraint touch
Yes The child seat may touch the back of the
the back of the front passenger seat?
Can the head restraints be removed? Yes, center position
only.
two or more child restraints. If the center position does not have dedicated LATCH
lower anchorages, use the seat belt to in-
stall a child seat in the center position next
to a child seat using the LATCH anchor-
ages in an outboard position.
front passenger seat if the child restraint
manufacturer also allows contact. See your
child restraint owner ’s manual for more
information.
Locating The LATCH Anchorages
The lower anchorages are round bars that are found at the rear of the seat cushion where it meets the seatback, below the anchorage sym-
bols on the seatback. They are just visible when you lean into the rear seat to install the child restraint. You will easily feel them if you run your finger along the gap between the seatback and seat cushion.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 87
2
LATCH Anchorages
88 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Locating The LATCH Anchorages
There are tether strap anchorages behind each
rear seating position located in the panel be-
tween the rear seatback and the rear window.
They are found under a plastic cover with the tether anchorage symbol on it.
Tether Strap Anchorages
LATCH-compatible child restraint systems will be equipped with a rigid bar or a flexible strap on each side. Each will have a hook or connector to attach to the lower anchorage and a way to tighten the connection to the anchorage. Forward-facing child restraints and some rear-facing infant restraints will also be equipped with a
tether strap. The tether strap will have a hook at the end to attach to the top tether anchorage and a way to tighten the strap after it is attached to the anchorage.
Center Seat LATCH
If a child restraint installed in the center position blocks the seat belt webbing or buckle for the outboard position, do not use that outboard position. If a child seat in the center position blocks the outboard LATCH anchors or seat belt, do not install a child seat in that outboard position.
WARNING!
Never use the same lower anchorage to attach more than one child restraint. Please refer to “Installing The LATCH Child Restraint System” for typical installation instructions.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 89
Always follow the directions of the child restraint manufacturer when installing your child restraint. Not all child restraint systems will be installed as described here.
To Install A LATCH-compatible Child Restraint
1. If the selected seating position has a Switchable Auto­matic Locking Retractor (ALR) seat belt, stow the seat belt following the instructions below. See the section “Installing Child Restraints Using the Vehicle Seat Belt” to check what type of seat belt each seating position has.
2. Loosen the adjusters on the lower straps and on the tether strap of the child seat so that you can more easily attach the hooks or connectors to the vehicle anchorages.
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90 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
3. Place the child seat between the lower anchorages for that seating position. For some second row seats, you may need to recline the seat and/or raise the head restraint to get a better fit. If the rear seat can be moved forward and rearward in the vehicle, you may wish to move it to its rear-most position to make room for the child seat. You may also move the front seat forward to allow more room for the child seat.
4. Attach the lower hooks or connectors of the child restraint to the lower anchorages in the selected seat­ing position.
5. If the child restraint has a tether strap, connect it to the top tether anchorage. See the section “Installing Child Restraints Using the Top Tether Anchorage” for direc­tions to attach a tether anchor.
6. Tighten all of the straps as you push the child restraint rearward and downward into the seat. Remove slack in the straps according to the child restraint manufac­turer’s instructions.
7. Test that the child restraint is installed tightly by pulling back and forth on the child seat at the belt path. It should not move more than 1 inch (25.4 mm) in any direction.
How To Stow An Unused ALR Seatbelt
When using the LATCH attaching system to install a child restraint, stow all ALR seat belts that are not being used by other occupants or being used to secure child restraints. An unused belt could injure a child if they play with it and accidentally lock the seatbelt retractor. Before installing a child restraint using the LATCH system, buckle the seat belt behind the child restraint and out of the child’s reach. If the buckled seat belt interferes with the child restraint installation, instead of buckling it
behind the child restraint, route the seat belt through the child restraint belt path and then buckle it. Do not lock the seatbelt. Remind all children in the vehicle that the seat belts are not toys and that they should not play with them.
WARNING!
Improper installation of a child restraint to the LATCH anchorages can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions ex­actly when installing an infant or child restraint.
Child restraint anchorages are designed to with­stand only those loads imposed by correctly-fitted child restraints. Under no circumstances are they to be used for adult seat belts, harnesses, or for attaching other items or equipment to the vehicle.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 91
Installing Child Restraints Using The Vehicle Seat Belt
The seat belts in the passenger seating positions are equipped with a Switchable Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) that is designed to keep the lap portion of the seat belt tight around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to use a locking clip. The ALR retractor can be “switched” into a locked mode by pulling all of the webbing out of the retractor and then letting the webbing retract back into the retractor. If it is locked, the ALR will make a clicking noise while the webbing is pulled back into the retractor. For additional information on ALR, refer to the “Automatic Locking Mode” description un­der “Occupant Restraints.”
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92 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Lap/Shoulder Belt Systems for Installing Child Restraints in this Vehicle
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 93
What is the weight limit (child’s weight + weight of the child re­straint) for using the Tether Anchor with the seat belt to attach a forward facing child restraint?
Can the rear-facing child restraint
touch the back of the front passen-
ger seat?
Can the head restraints be re-
moved?
Can the buckle stalk be twisted to
tighten the seat belt against the belt
path of the child restraint?
Weight limit of the Child Restraint Always use the tether anchor when
using the seat belt to install a for-
ward facing child restraint, up to
the recommended weight limit of
the child restraint.
Yes Contact between the front passen-
ger seat and the child restraint is
allowed, if the child restraint
manufacturer also allows contact.
Yes, center position only.
Yes In positions with cinching latch
plates (CINCH), the buckle stalk may be twisted up to 3 full turns. Do not twist the buckle stalk in a
seating position with an ALR re-
tractor.
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94 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Installing A Child Restraint With A Switchable Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR)
4. Pull on the webbing to make the lap portion tight against the child seat.
1. Place the child seat in the center of the seating position. For some second row seats, you may need to recline the seat and/or raise the head restraint to get a better fit. If the rear seat can be moved forward and rearward in the vehicle, you may wish to move it to its rear-most position to make room for the child seat. You may also move the front seat forward to allow more room for the child seat.
2. Pull enough of the seat belt webbing from the retractor to pass it through the seat belt path of the child restraint. Do not twist the belt webbing in the seat belt path.
3. Slide the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click”.
5. To lock the seat belt, pull down on the shoulder part of the seat belt until you have pulled all the seat belt webbing out of the retractor. Then, allow the webbing to retract back into the retractor. As the webbing retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This means the seat belt is now in the Automatic Locking mode.
6. Try to pull the webbing out of the retractor. If it is locked, you should not be able to pull out any web­bing. If the retractor is not locked, repeat step 5.
7. Finally, pull up on any excess webbing to tighten the lap portion around the child restraint while you push the child restraint rearward and downward into the vehicle seat.
8. If the child restraint has a top tether strap and the seating position has a top tether anchorage, connect the tether strap to the anchorage and tighten the tether strap. See the section “Installing Child Restraints Using the Top Tether Anchorage” for directions to attach a tether anchor.
9. Test that the child restraint is installed tightly by pulling back and forth on the child seat at the seat belt path. It should not move more than 1 inch (25.4 mm) in any direction.
Any seat belt system will loosen with time, so check the seat belt occasionally, and pull it tight if necessary.
Installing A Child Restraint With A Cinching Latch Plate (CINCH) — If Equipped
1. Place the child seat in the center of the seating position. For some second row seats, you may need to recline the seat and/or raise the head restraint to get a
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 95
better fit. If the rear seat can be moved forward and rearward in the vehicle, you may wish to move it to its rear-most position to make room for the child seat. You may also move the front seat forward to allow more room for the car seat.
2. Next, pull enough of the seat belt webbing from the retractor to pass it through the belt path of the child restraint. Do not twist the belt webbing in the belt path.
3. Slide the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click”.
4. Finally, pull up on any excess webbing to tighten the lap portion around the child restraint while you push the child restraint rearward and downward into the vehicle seat.
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96 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
5.
If the child restraint has a top tether strap and the seating position has a top tether anchorage, connect the tether strap to the anchorage and tighten the tether strap. Refer to “Installing Child Restraints Using The Top Tether Anchorage” for directions to attach a tether anchor.
6. Test that the child restraint is installed tightly by pulling back and forth on the child seat at the belt path. It should not move more than 1 inch (25 mm) in any direction.
Any seat belt system will loosen with time, so check the belt occasionally, and pull it tight if necessary.
If the buckle or the cinching latch plate is too close to the belt path opening of the child restraint, you may have trouble tightening the seat belt. If this happens, disconnect the latch plate from the buckle and twist the short buckle­end belt up to three full turns to shorten it. Insert the latch plate into the buckle with the release button facing out,
away from the child restraint. Repeat steps 4 to 6, above, to complete the installation of the child restraint.
If the belt still cannot be tightened after you shorten the buckle, disconnect the latch plate from the buckle, turn the buckle around one half turn, and insert the latch plate into the buckle again. If you still cannot make the child restraint installation tight, try a different seating position.
Installing Child Restraints Using The Top Tether Anchorage
1. Look behind the seating position where you plan to install the child restraint to find the tether anchorage. You may need to move the
seat forward to provide better access to the tether anchorage. If there is no top tether anchorage for that seating position, move the child restraint to another position in the vehicle if one is available.
2. Rotate or lift the cover to access the anchor directly behind the seat where you are placing the child restraint.
3. Route the tether strap to provide the most direct path for the strap between the anchor and the child seat. If your vehicle is equipped with adjustable rear head restraints, raise the head restraint, and where possible, route the tether strap under the head restraint and between the two posts. If not possible, lower the head restraint and pass the tether strap around the outboard side of the head restraint.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 97
2
Adjustable Headrest Release Push Button
98 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Adjustable Headrest Downward Position Tether Strap Mounting
1 — Cover A — Tether Strap Hook 3 — Attaching Strap B — Tether Anchor
4. Attach the tether strap hook of the child restraint to the top tether anchorage as shown in the diagram.
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