Chrysler Pacifica 2004 User Manual

SECTION PAGE

1

INTRODUCTION

2

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

4

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

5

STARTING AND OPERATING

6

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

7

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

9

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

.............................................................3

..............................9

..............................65

...................................133

.................................................195

..............................................249

...............................................265

..................................................315

.........................................335

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

10

INDEX

....................................................................345

10

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1

m Introduction ...........................4

m How To Use This Manual ..................4

m Warnings And Cautions ...................6

m Vehicle Identification Number ...............6

m Vehicle Modifications / Alterations ...........7

4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared with the assistance of
service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is
supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and
various customer oriented documents. You are urged 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 you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.

When it comes to service, remember that your dealer
knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained techni­cians and genuine Mopart parts, and is interested in
your satisfaction.

WARNING!

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductiveharm. In addition,
certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain prod­ucts of component wear contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

Consult the table of contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.

The detailed index, at the rear of this 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 manual contains WARNINGS against operating
procedures which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against procedures
which could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do
not read this entire manual you may miss important
information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is found on the
left front corner of the instrument panel, 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.
Save this label for a convenient record of your vehicle
identification number and optional equipment.

NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS

WARNING!

Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle
could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety
and may lead to an accident resulting in serious
injury or death.

INTRODUCTION 7

1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

m A Word About Your Keys ..................11

▫ Ignition Key Removal ...................11

▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................12

m Sentry Key ............................12

▫ Replacement Keys ......................14

▫ Sentry Key Programming .................14

▫ General Information ....................15

m Illuminated Entry System ..................15

m Door Locks ............................16

2

▫ Manual Door Locks .....................16

▫ Power Door Locks .....................17

▫ Child Protection Door Lock ...............18

m Remote Keyless Entry .....................19

▫ To Unlock The Doors And Liftgate ..........20

▫ To Lock The Doors And Liftgate ............21

▫ Using The Panic Alarm ..................21

▫ General Information ....................23

▫ Transmitter Battery Service ...............23

10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

m Vehicle Theft Alarm ......................24

m Liftgate ...............................26

▫ Power Liftgate — If Equipped .............27

m Windows .............................30

▫ Power Windows .......................30

m Occupant Restraints ......................31

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................32

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure .....38

▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................40

▫ Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System

(BeltAlert™) ..........................40

▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............41

▫ Seat Belt Extender ......................42

▫ Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental

Restraint System - Airbag ................43

▫ Side Airbags Supplemental Restraint System

(SRS) — If Equipped ....................50

▫ Child Restraint ........................53

m Engine Break-In Recommendations ...........61

m Safety Tips ............................62

▫ Exhaust Gas ..........................62

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The

Vehicle ..............................62

▫ Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make

Outside The Vehicle ....................63

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

You can insert the double sided keys into the locks with
either side up.

The dealer that sold you your new vehicle has the key
code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can

be used to order duplicate keys from your dealer. Ask
your dealer for these numbers and keep them in a safe
place.

Ignition Key Removal

The shift lever must be in PARK. Turn the key to the
LOCK position, then remove the key.

2

12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: The power window switches, radio, power
sunroof, and power outlets will remain active for up to 45
seconds after the ignition switch has been turned off.
Opening either front door will cancel this feature.

WARNING!

Leaving children in a vehicle unattended is danger­ous for a number of reasons. A child or others could
be injured. Children should be warned not to touch
the parking brake, brake pedal or the gear selector
lever. Don’t leave the keys in the ignition. A child
could operate power windows, other controls, or
move the vehicle.

CAUTION!

An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always
remove key from the ignition and lock all doors
when leaving the vehicle unattended.

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

If you open the driver’s door and the key is in the ignition
switch, a chime will sound to remind you to remove the key.

SENTRY KEY

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho­rized operation of the vehicle by disabling the engine.
The system will shut the engine off after 2 seconds of
running if an invalid key is used to start the vehicle. This
system utilizes ignition keys which have an electronic
chip (transponder) embedded into them. Only keys that
have been programmed to the vehicle can be used to start
and operate the vehicle.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be
armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic
regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or
unlocked. During normal operation, the Theft Alarm/
Immobilizer Light will come on for three (3) seconds
immediately after the ignition switch is turned on for a
bulb check. Afterwards, if the bulb remains on, this
indicates a problem with the electronics.

If the bulb begins to flash after the bulb check, this
indicates that an invalid key has been used to start the
vehicle. Both of these conditions will result in the engine
being shut off after two (2) seconds of running.

Keep in mind that a key which has not been programmed
is also considered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the
ignition lock cylinder for that vehicle.

If the Theft Alarm/Immobilizer Light comes on during
normal vehicle operation (vehicle has been running for

longer than 10 seconds), a fault has been detected in the
electronics and the vehicle should be serviced as soon as
possible.

NOTE:

•

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible

with remote starting systems. Use of these systems

may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of

security protection.

•

Exxon/Mobil Speed Pass,™ additional Sentry Keys, or

any other transponder equipped components on the

same keychain will not cause a key-related (transpon-

der) fault unless the additional part is physically held

against the ignition key being used when starting the

vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF electronics

will not cause interference with this system.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have

been programmed to the vehicle electronics.

2

14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Replacement Keys

NOTE: Only keys that have been programmed to the
vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once
a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it can
not be programmed to any other vehicle.

At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four digit PIN number. This number is required
for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may
be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the
Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure
consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle
electronics. A blank key is one which has never been
programmed.

NOTE: When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer
System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to the
dealer.

Sentry Key Programming

You can program new keys to the system if you have two
valid sentry keys by performing the following procedure:

1. Cut the additional Sentry Key Transponder blank(s) to
match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.

2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON for at least 3 seconds but no
longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition switch OFF and
remove the first key.

3. Insert the second valid key and turn the ignition
switch ON within 15 seconds. After ten seconds a chime
will sound and the Theft Alarm Light will begin to flash.
Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the second key.

4. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON within 60 seconds. After 10
seconds a single chime will sound. The TheftAlarm Light
will stop flashing, turn on for 3 seconds; then turn off.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

The new Sentry Key has been programmed. The Keyless
Entry Transmitter will also be programmed during this
procedure.

Repeat this procedure to program up to a total of 8 keys.
If you do not have a programmed sentry key, contact
your dealer for details.

NOTE: If a programmed key has been lost, see your
dealer to have all remaining keys erased from the sys­tems memory. The remaining keys must then repro­grammed. This will prevent the lost key from starting
your vehicle. All vehicle keys must be taken to the dealer
at the time of service to be reprogrammed.

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 undes-

ired operation.

ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM

The courtesy lights will turn on when you use the keyless
entry transmitter or open the doors.

The lights will fade to off after about 30 seconds or they
will immediately fade to off once the ignition switch is
turned on.

NOTE:

•

The overhead console, door courtesy, liftgate and

reading lights will not operate if the dimmer control is

in the “defeat” position (extreme downward position).

2

16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

DOOR LOCKS
Manual Door Locks

Lock the doors by pushing up on the lock knob on each
door trim panel.

If the lock knob is up when you shut the door, the door
will lock. Therefore, make sure the keys are not inside the
vehicle before closing the door.

WARNING!

•

For personal security and safety in the event of an
accident, lock the vehicle doors as you drive as
well as when you park and leave the vehicle.

•

When leaving the vehicle always remove the key
from the ignition lock, and lock your vehicle. Do
not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised
use of vehicle equipment may cause severe per­sonal injuries and death.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

Power Door Locks

A power door lock switch is on each front door trim
panel. Use this switch to lock or unlock the doors.

If you press the power door lock switch while the key is
in the ignition, and any front door is open, the power
locks will not operate. This prevents you from acciden­tally locking your keys in the vehicle. Removing the key

or closing the door will allow the locks to operate. A
chime will sound if the key is in the ignition and a door
is open, as a reminder to remove the key.

Automatic Door Locks

The doors will lock automatically on vehicles with power
door locks if:

1. The Auto Lock feature is enabled,

2. the transmission is in gear,

3. all doors are closed

4. the vehicle speed is above 15 mph (24 km/h) and

5. the doors were not previously locked using the power
door lock switch or remote keyless entry transmitter.

The Automatic Door Locks can be enabled or disabled by
performing the procedure in the Electronic Vehicle Infor­mation Center (EVIC), Customer Programmable Features
section.

2

18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Auto Unlock

The doors will unlock automatically on vehicles with
power door locks if:

1. The Auto Unlock feature is enabled,

2. the transmission was in gear and the vehicle speed
returned to 0 mph (0 km/h),

3. the transmission is in NEUTRAL or PARK,

4. the driver door is opened (excluding liftgate),

5. the doors were not previously unlocked and

6. the vehicle speed is 0 mph (0 km/h).
The Auto Unlock feature can be enabled or disabled by

performing the procedure in the Electronic Vehicle Infor­mation Center (EVIC), Customer Programmable Features
section.

NOTE: Use the Auto Door Locks and Auto Unlock
features in accordance with local laws.

Child Protection Door Lock

To provide a safer environment for small children riding
in the rear seats, the rear doors are equipped with a child
protection door lock system.

WARNING!

Avoid trapping anyone in the vehicle in a collision.
Remember that the rear doors can only be opened
from the outside when the child protection locks are
engaged.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19

To activate the system, open the rear door and move the
child lock control, located near the door’s rear latch, to
the ON position.

When the child lock system is engaged the door can be
opened only by using the outside door handle even
though the inside door lock is in the unlocked position.

2

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors and
liftgate, and activate the panic alarm from distances up to
about 23 feet (7 meters) using a hand held radio trans­mitter. The transmitter need not be pointed at the vehicle
to activate the system.

20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: If the key is in the ignition switch, then all
buttons on that transmitter will be disabled. The buttons
on the remaining transmitters will work. If the vehicle is
shifted out of PARK, all the transmitter buttons are
disabled for all keys.

To unlock the doors and liftgate:

Press and release the UNLOCK button on the transmitter
once to unlock the driver’s door, or twice to unlock all
doors and liftgate. The illuminated entry system also
turns on.

NOTE: If desired, the “Remote Unlock Driver’s Door
1st” feature can be turned on and off by referring to the
Customer Programmable Features of the “Electronic Ve­hicle Information Center (EVIC)” section or by following
these steps.

1. Press the UNLOCK button for 4 to 10 seconds.

2. While the UNLOCK button is pressed, (after 4 sec­onds) press the LOCK button. Release both buttons.

The “Remote Unlock Driver’s Door 1st” feature can be
reactivated by repeating this procedure.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21

To lock the doors and liftgate:

Press and release the LOCK button on the transmitter to
lock all doors and liftgate. The horn will chirp once to
acknowledge the signal. If desired, the “Sound Horn On
Lock” feature can be turned on and off by referring to the
Customer Programmable Features of the “Electronic Ve­hicle Information Center (EVIC)” section or by following
these steps.

1. Press the LOCK button for 4 to 10 seconds.

2. While the LOCK button is pressed (after 4 seconds),
press the PANIC button. Release both buttons.

The “Sound Horn On Lock” feature can be reactivated by
repeating this procedure.

Using The Panic Alarm:

To turn the panic alarm feature ON or OFF, press and
hold the PANIC button on the transmitter for at least one
second and release. When the panic alarm is on, the
headlights and park lights will flash, the horn will pulse
on and off and the interior lights will turn on.

The panic alarm will stay on for 3 minutes unless you
turn it off by pressing the PANIC button a second time or
turn the ignition switch to the ON position.

NOTE: When you turn off the panic alarm by pressing
the PANIC button a second time, you may have to be
closer to the vehicle due to the radio frequency noises of
the system.

2

22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To Open/Close Power Liftgate — If Equipped

Press the LIFTGATE button twice within five seconds to
open/close the power liftgate. The liftgate will beep for 2
seconds and then open/close. If the button is pushed
while the liftgate is being power closed, the liftgate will
reverse to the full open position.

If the liftgate is locked and is not equipped with a
powered liftgate, pressing the button will result in the
liftgate becoming unlocked for 30 seconds allowing you
to manually access the liftgate area. The liftgate will
re-lock automatically within 10 seconds once the liftgate
is closed.

To Turn Off “Flash Lights On Lock/Unlock”
NOTE: If desired, the “Flash Lights On Lock/Unlock”

feature can be turned on and off by referring to the
Customer Programmable Features of the “Electronic Ve­hicle Information Center (EVIC)” section or by following
these steps.

1. Press the LOCK button for 4 to 10 seconds.

2. While the LOCK button is pressed, (after 4 seconds)
press the UNLOCK button. Release both buttons.

The “Flash Lights On Lock/Unlock” feature can be
reactivated by repeating this procedure. The table below
explains the Lamp Flash options.

Function Which Turn Signal

Lamps

Number of

Flashes

Lock All 1
Unlock 1st

Driver’s Side 2

Press
Unlock All

All 2

Doors
Liftgate All 2

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23

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.

•

This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired op­eration.

If your Remote Keyless Entry 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.

Transmitter Battery Service

The recommended replacement battery is one CR2032
battery.

NOTE: Do not touch the battery terminals that are on
the back housing or the printed circuit board.

1. With the transmitter buttons facing down, use a small
screwdriver or similar flat object to pry the two halves of
the transmitter apart. Make sure not to damage the
rubber gasket during removal.

2

24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

2. Remove and replace the battery. Avoid touching the
new battery with your fingers. Skin oils may cause
battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with
rubbing alcohol.

3. To reassemble the transmitter case, snap the two
halves together. Make sure there is an even “gap” be­tween the two halves. Test transmitter operation.

VEHICLE THEFT ALARM

This system monitors the vehicle doors and ignition
switch for unauthorized entry or operation. When the
alarm is activated, the system provides both audible and
visual signals. The horn will pulse, headlights/park
lights will flash, the Vehicle Theft Alarm/Immobilizer
light, located on the instrument panel below the Elec­tronic Vehicle Information Center buttons will flash, and
the vehicle will not start. If the alarm is triggered and no
action is taken to disarm it, the system will turn off the

horn after three minutes and after 15 minutes of light
only operation the system will then rearm itself.

To arm the system: Remove the key from the ignition
switch and either:

1. Press a power door lock switch while the driver’s or
passenger’s door is open.

2. Press the LOCK button on the keyless entry transmit­ter.

After the last door is closed, or if all doors are closed, the
system will arm itself in about 16 seconds. During that
time, the Vehicle Theft Alarm/Immobilizer light will
flash. If it does not illuminate, the system is not arming.
If you open a door during this arming period, the system
will cancel the arming process. You must repeat one of
the previously described arming sequences to rearm the
system.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25

To disarm the system: Press the UNLOCK button on the
keyless entry transmitter. Also, using a valid sentry key
and moving the ignition switch to the ON/START posi­tion will disarm the system. If you disarm the system and
access the liftgate area, the system must be rearmed, as
described previously, when closing the liftgate. If some­thing has triggered the system in your absence, the horn
will sound three times when you disarm the system.
Check the vehicle for tampering.

NOTE:

•

The driver’s door key cylinder and the liftgate button
on the keyless entry transmitter cannot arm or disarm
the system.

•

Once the alarm is set, and the liftgate button on the
keyless entry transmitter is pressed, on a non-power
liftgate vehicle, you have a 30 second one time access

into the liftgate area.If the liftgate is not opened within

30 seconds the liftgate will automatically re-lock

within 10 seconds.

•

The system remains armed during liftgate entry, press-

ing the liftgate button will not disarm the system, if

someone enters the vehicle through the liftgate and

opens any door the alarm will sound.

•

When the system is armed, the doors can not be

unlocked from the interior power door lock switches.
The Vehicle Theft Alarm system 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
system 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
system.

2

26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The alarm system will be activated when the battery is
connected if the system was previously armed. The
exterior lights will flash, the horn will sound, and the
ignition will not start the vehicle. If this occurs, disarm
the system.

LIFTGATE

The liftgate can be unlocked using the remote keyless
entry or by activating the power door lock switches
located on the front doors.

Once unlocked, the liftgate can be opened or closed. To
open the liftgate, depress the liftgate release switch
located in the exterior handle and pull the liftgate open
with one fluid motion.

The liftgate will not manually open if the vehicle is in
gear or the vehicle speed is above 0 mph (0 km/h).

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27

NOTE:

•

If a power malfunction to the power liftgate latch
should occur, an emergency liftgate latch release can
be used to open the liftgate. The emergency liftgate
latch release can be accessed through a snap-in cover
located on the liftgate trim panel.

•

If the liftgate is locked and is not equipped with a
powered liftgate, pressing the button on the remote
keyless entry transmitter will result in the liftgate
becoming unlocked for 30 seconds allowing you to
manually access the liftgate area. The liftgate will
re-lock automatically within 10 seconds once the lift­gate is closed.

Power Liftgate — If Equipped

The power liftgate may be opened manually or by using
the button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. Press
the button on the remote keyless entry transmitter twice
within five seconds, to open the power liftgate. Once the
liftgate is fully open, pressing the button twice within
five seconds a second time will close the liftgate.

2

28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The power liftgate may also be opened by pressing the
switch located on the overhead console.

A beeping signal will sound two seconds before the
liftgate starts to open or close.

WARNING!

During power operation, personal injury or cargo
damage may occur. Ensure the liftgate travel path is
clear. Make sure the liftgate is closed and latched
before driving away.

NOTE:

•

If anything obstructs the power liftgate while it is

closing or opening, the liftgate will automatically

reverse to the closed or open position, provided it

meets sufficient resistance.

•

There are also pinch sensors attached to the side of the

liftgate. Light pressure anywhere along these strips

will cause the liftgate to return to the open position.

•

The power liftgate must be in the full open position for
any of the close buttons to operate. If the liftgate is not
fully open, press the open button to fully open the
liftgate and then press close.

•

If the liftgate release switch is activated while the
power liftgate is closing, the liftgate will reverse to the
full open position.

•

The power liftgate switches will not operate if the
vehicle is in gear or the vehicle speed is above 0 mph
(0 km/h).

•

The power liftgate will not operate in temperatures
below 222°F(230° C) or temperatures above 150° F
(65° C). Be sure to remove any build-up of snow or ice
from the liftgate before pressing any of the power
liftgate switches.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29

•

If the power liftgate encounters multiple obstructions

within the same cycle, the system will automatically

stop and must be opened or closed manually.

WARNING!

•

Driving with the liftgate open can allow poison­ous exhaust gases into your vehicle. You and your
passengers could be injured by these fumes. Keep
the liftgate closed when you are operating the
vehicle.

•

If you are required to drive with the liftgate open,
make sure that all windows are closed, and the
climate control blower switch is set at high speed.
DO NOT use the recirculation mode.

2

30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Gas props support the liftgate in the open position.
However, because the gas pressure drops with tempera­ture, it may be necessary to assist the props when
opening the liftgate in cold weather.

WINDOWS
Power Windows

The window controls on the driver’s door control all the
door windows.

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
switch is in the ON or ACCESSORY position.

The window lock switch on the driver’s door allows you
to disable the window controls on the passenger doors.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31

When the lock switch is pressed the window controls on
the passenger doors will not illuminate and the passen­ger windows will be disabled.

Auto Down Feature

All the power window switches have an auto down
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.

The power window switches remain active for up to 45
seconds after the ignition switch has been turned off.
Opening either front door will cancel this feature.

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, 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.

OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

Some of the most important safety features in your
vehicle are the restraint systems. These include the front
and rear seat belts for the driver and all passengers, front
airbags for both the driver and front passenger, driver
inflatable knee blocker and if equipped, left and right
side curtain airbags for the driver and passengers seated
next to a window. If you will be carrying children too
small for adult-size seat belts, your seat belts or the
LATCH feature (refer to the Child Restraint section in this
manual), can be used to hold infant and child restraint
systems.

2

32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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.

WARNING!

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.

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 the seats in your vehicle are equipped with Lap/
Shoulder Belts.

The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during
very sudden stops or collisions. This feature allows the
shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under
normal conditions. But in a collision, the belt will lock
and reduce the risk of your striking the inside of the
vehicle or being thrown out.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33

WARNING!

•

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area,
inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision,
people riding in these areas are more likely to be
seriously injured or killed.

•

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.

WARNING!

•

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 the
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.

•

Two people should never be belted into a single
seat belt. People belted togethercan crash into one
another in a collision, hurting one another badly.
Never use a lap/shoulder belt or lap belt for more
than one person, no matter what their size.

2

34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions

1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and
adjust the seat.

2. The seat belt latch plate is near the seatback of the
front seats and next to your arm in the rear seats. Grasp
the latch plate and pull out the belt. Slide the latch plate
up the webbing as far as necessary to allow the belt to go
around your lap.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35

3. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latch
plate into the buckle until you hear a “click”.

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 as well. In
a sudden stop you could move too far forward, increas­ing the possibility of injury. Wear your seat belt snugly.

•

A belt that is worn under your arm is very dangerous.
Yourbody 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.

2

36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your
abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull up
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.

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.

• Atwisted belt can’t do its job as well. 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 dealer 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 37

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 (bent retractor, torn webbing,
etc.).

Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage

In the front seats, the shoulder belt anchorage can be
adjusted upward or downward to help position the belt
away from your neck. Press the button to release the
anchorage, and then move it up or down to the position
that serves you best.

2

38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

As a guide, if you are shorter than average, you will
prefer a lower position, and if you are taller than average,
you’ll prefer a higher position. When you release the
anchorage, try to move it up or down to make sure that
it is locked in position.

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 inches (15 to 30 cm) above the latch
plate, grasp and twist the belt webbing 180° 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39

2

4. Continue to slide the latch plate up until it clears the
folded webbing.

40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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 improve the performance of the seat belt
by assuring that the belt is tight about the occupant early
in a collision. Pretensioners are designed to work for all
size occupants.

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 front airbag con­trol module (see Airbag Section). Like the front airbags,
the pretensioners are single use items. After a collision
that is severe enough to deploy the airbags and preten­sioners, both must be replaced.

Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System
(BeltAlert™)

If the driver’s seat belt has not been buckled within 60
seconds of starting the vehicle and if the vehicle speed is
greater than 5 mph (8 km/h), the Enhanced Warning
System (BeltAlert™) will alert the driver to buckle their
seat belt. The driver should also instruct all other occu­pants to buckle their seat belts. Once the warning is
triggered, the Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert™)
will continue to chime and flash the Seat Belt Warning
Light for 96 seconds or until the driver’s seat belt is
buckled.

The Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert™) will be
reactivated if the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled for more
than 10 seconds and the vehicle speed is greater than 5
mph (8 km/h).

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41

The Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert™) can be en­abled or disabled by your authorized dealer or by
following these steps:

NOTE: The following steps must occur within the first
60 seconds of the ignition switch being turned to the ON
or START position. DaimlerChrysler does not recom­mend deactivating the Enhanced Warning System
(BeltAlert).

1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and
buckle the driver’s seat belt.

2. Start the engine and wait for the Seat Belt Warning
Light to turn off.

3. Within 60 seconds of starting the vehicle, unbuckle
and then re-buckle the driver’s seat belt at least three
times within 10 seconds, ending with the seat belt
buckled.

4. Turn off the engine. A single chime will sound to
signify that you have successfully completed the pro­gramming.

The Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert™) can be reac­tivated by repeating this procedure.

NOTE: Although the Enhanced Warning System (BeltA­lert™) has been deactivated, the Seat Belt Warning Light
will continue to illuminate while the driver’s seat belt
remains unbuckled.

Seat Belts and Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use the seat belts
throughout their pregnancies. 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.

2

42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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
equipped) is in its lowest position, your 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 stow it.

WARNING!

Using a seat belt extender when not needed can
increase the risk of injury in a collision. Only use
when the lap 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.

Driver and Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System - Airbag

This vehicle has airbags for both the driver and front
passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint
systems. The driver’s front airbag is mounted in the
center of the steering wheel. The passenger’s front airbag
is mounted in the instrument panel, above the glove
compartment. The words SRS AIRBAG are embossed on
the airbag covers.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43

2

NOTE: The front airbags are certified to the Federal
regulations that allow less forceful deployment in low
speed collisions.

The front airbags have a multi stage inflator design. This
allows the airbag to have different rates of inflation that
are based on collision severity.

44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

This vehicle is also equipped with a driver inflatable knee
blocker located on the instrument panel below the steer­ing column.

This vehicle may also be equipped with left and right
side curtain airbags to protect the driver and passengers
sitting next to a window. If the vehicle is equipped with
side curtain airbags, they are located above the side
windows. Their covers are also labeled SRS AIRBAG.

NOTE: Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior
trim; but they will open to allow airbag deployment.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45

WARNING!

• Do not put anything on or around the airbag covers

or attempt to manually open them. You may damage
the airbags and you could be injured because the
airbags are not there to protect you. These protective
covers for the airbag cushions are designed to open
only when the airbags are inflating.

• If your vehicle is equipped with left and right side

curtain airbags, do not stack luggage or other cargo
up high enough to block the location of the side
curtain airbag.The area where the side curtain airbag
is located should remain free from any obstructions.

• If your vehicle is equipped with left and right side

curtain airbags, 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.

Airbags inflate in moderate to high speed impacts. Along
with seat belts, and pretensioners, front airbags work
with the instrument panel knee blockers to provide
improved protection for the driver and front passenger.
Left and right side curtain airbags also work with seat
belts to improve occupant protection.

The seat belts are designed to protect you in many types
of collisions. The front airbags deploy only in moderate
to severe frontal collisions. If your vehicle is equipped,
the side curtain airbag on the crash side of the vehicle is
triggered in moderate to severe side collisions. In certain
types of collisions where the airbags deploy,you need the
seat belts to keep you in the right position for the airbags
to protect you properly.

Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize the
risk of harm from a deploying airbag.

2

46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

1. Children 12 years old and under should always ride
buckled up in a rear seat.

Infants in rear facing child restraints should NEVER ride
in the frontseat of a vehicle with a passenger frontairbag.
An airbag deployment can cause severe injury or death to
infants in that position.

Children that are not big enough to properly wear the
vehicle seat belt (refer to section on Child Restraint)
should be secured in the rear seat, in a child restraint or
belt-positioning booster seat appropriate for the size and
age of the child. Older children who do not use a child
restraint or belt-positioning booster seat 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 1 to 12 years old must ride in the front
passenger seat because the vehicle is crowded, move the
seat as far back as possible, and use the proper child
restraint. Refer to the section on Child Restraint.

You should read the instructions provided with your
child restraint to make sure that you are using it properly.

2. All occupants should 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 front airbags
room to inflate.

4. If your vehicle has left and right side curtain airbags,
do not lean against the door, airbags will inflate force­fully into the space between you and the door.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 47

WARNING!

•

Relying on the airbags alone could lead to more
severe injuries in a collision. The airbags work
with your seat belt to restrain you properly. In
some collisions the airbags won’t deploy at all.
Always wear your seat belts even though you
have airbags.

•

Being too close to the steering wheel or instru­ment panel during front airbag deployment could
cause serious injury. Airbags need room to inflate.
Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to
reach the steering wheel or instrument panel.

•

If the vehicle has left and right side curtain
airbags, they also need room to inflate. Do not
lean against the door or window. Sit upright in the
center of the seat.

“The Front Airbag System” consists of the following:

•

Airbag Control Module (with integrated impact sen-

sor)

•

AIRBAG Readiness Light

•

Driver Airbag

•

Front Passenger Airbag

•

Seat Belt Pretensioners

•

Steering Wheel and Column

•

Instrument Panel

•

Seat Belt Readiness Light

•

Interconnecting Wiring

•

Passenger Knee Impact Blocker

•

Driver Inflatable Knee Blocker

2

48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

How The Airbag Systems Work

The airbag control module determines if an impact is

•

severe enough to require the airbags to inflate. Based
on the level of collision severity, the control module
determines the proper rate of inflation. The front
airbag inflators are designed to provide different rates
of airbag inflation. The airbag control module will not
detect roll over collisions.

The airbag control module also monitors the readiness
of the electronic parts of the system whenever the
ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These
include all of the items listed under “The Front Airbag
System”, except the passenger knee blocker, instru­ment panel and the steering wheel and column. If the
key is in the OFF position, in the ACC position, or not
in the ignition switch, the front airbags are not on and
will not inflate.

The airbag control module sends a message
to the instrument cluster to turn on the
AIRBAG light in the instrument panel for 6

to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first
turned ON, then turns the light off. If the airbag
control module detects a malfunction in any part of the
system, the airbag light will turn on either momen­tarily or continuously.

WARNING!

Ignoring the AIRBAG light inyour instrument panel
could mean you won’t have the airbags to protect
you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays
on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you
drive, have the airbag system checked right away.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49

•

When the airbag control module detects a collision
requiring the Front Airbags , it signals the inflator
units. A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to
inflate the front airbags. Differentfront airbag inflation
rates are possible, these rates are determined by the
airbag control module based on collision severity. The
front airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as
the front airbags inflate to their full size. The front
airbags fully inflate in about 50 milliseconds. This is
only about half of the time it takes you to blink your
eyes. The front airbags then quickly deflate while
helping to restrain the driver and front passenger. The
driver’s and passenger’s front airbag gas is vented
through the airbag material and small vent openings
towards the instrument panel. In this way the front
airbags do not interfere with your control of the
vehicle.

•

The Supplemental Side Curtain Airbags are designed
to activate only in certain side collisions. When the

airbag control module detects a collision requiring the
side curtain airbags to inflate, it signals the inflators on
the crash side of the vehicle.A quantity of nontoxic gas
is generated to inflate the side curtain airbag. The
inflating side curtain airbag pushes the outside edge of
the headliner out of the way and inflates (in about the
same time it takes to blink your eyes). A properly
belted and seated occupant is less likely to be injured
by the force of the airbag or crash event. Items that are
positioned in the area where the side curtain airbag
inflates can reduce the effectiveness of the airbag and
also increase the likelihood of injuries to the occu­pants, this especially applies to children. The side
curtain airbag is about 4 inches (10 cm) thick when it
is inflated.

•

When the airbag control module detects a collision
requiring the Driver Inflatable Knee Blocker ,it
signals the inflator unit. A quantity of nontoxic gas is
generated to inflate the Driver Inflatable Knee Blocker.

2

50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The Driver Inflatable Knee Blocker inflates rearward
towards the driver’s knees to help protect the knees
and position you for the best interaction with the front
airbag. The Driver Inflatable Knee Blocker fully in­flates in about 50 milliseconds, this is only about half
of the time it takes you to blink your eyes. It then
quickly deflates while helping to protect the driver’s
knees.

•

The Knee Impact Blockers help protect the knees and
position you for the best interaction with the front
airbags.

Side Airbags Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS) — If Equipped

“Supplemental Side Curtain Airbag System”, on ve­hicles equipped, consists of the following:

•

AIRBAG Readiness Light (shared with the front airbag
system)

•

Left and Right Side Curtain Airbags Above Side
Windows

•

Airbag Control Module

•

Interconnecting Wiring

If An Airbag Deployment Occurs

The airbag systems are designed to deploy when the
airbag control modules detect a moderate-to-severe col­lision, to help restrain the driver and front passenger, and
then immediately deflate.

NOTE: A collision that is not severe enough to need
airbag protection will not activate the system. This does
not mean something is wrong with the airbag system.

If you do have a collision which deploys the airbag, any
or all of the following may occur:

•

The airbag material may sometimes cause abrasions
and/or skin reddening to the driver and front passen­ger as the airbags 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. However, if you
haven’t healed significantly within a few days, or if
you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately.

•

As the airbags deflate you may see some smoke-like
particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the
process that generates the nontoxic gas used for airbag
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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51

•

It is not advisable to drive your vehicle after the
airbags have deployed. If you are involved in another
collision, the airbags and seat belt pretensioners will
not be in place to protect you.

WARNING!

Deployed airbags and seat belt pretensioners cannot
protect you in another collision. Have the airbags
and seat belt pretensioners replaced by an autho­rized dealer as soon as possible.

Enhanced Accident Response

If the airbags and seat belt pertensioners deploy after an
impact and the electrical system remains functional,
vehicles equipped with power door locks will unlock
automatically. In addition, approximately 5 seconds after
the vehicle has stopped moving, the interior lights will
illuminate until the ignition switch is turned off.

2

52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Maintaining Your Airbag System

WARNING!

•

Modifications to any part of the airbag system
could cause it to fail when you need it. You could
be injured because the airbags are 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 frame.

•

You need proper knee impact protection in a
collision. Do not mount or locate any aftermarket
equipment on or behind the knee blockers.

•

It is dangerous to try to repair any part of the
airbag system yourself. Be sure to tell anyone who
works on your vehicle that it has airbags.

Airbag Light

You will want to have the airbags ready to inflate for your
protection in a collision. While the airbag system is
designed to be maintenance free, if any of the following
occurs, have an authorized dealer service the system
immediately.

•

The AIRBAG light does not come on or flickers during
the 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first
turned on.

•

The light remains on or flickers after the 6 to 8 second
interval.

•

The light flickers or comes on and remains on while
driving.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53

Child Restraint

Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up at all
times — babies and children, too. Every state in the
United States and all Canadian provinces require that
small children ride in proper restraint systems. This is the
law, and you can be prosecuted for ignoring it.

Children 12 years and under should ride properly buck­led up in a seat appropriate for their age and size.
According to crash statistics, children are safer when
properly restrained in the rear seats, rather than in the
front.

WARNING!

In a collision, an unrestrained child, even a tiny
baby, can become a missile 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.

Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH)

Each vehicle, is equipped with two child restraint anchor­age systems called LATCH, which stands for Lower
Anchors and Tether for CHildren. The LATCH child
restraint anchorage systems are installed on all second­row seats.

2

54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The lower anchor bars of the LATCH System are located
where the seat back meets the seat cushion.

The tether anchors are located on the rear surface of the
seat.

Child restraint systems designed to be compatible with
the vehicles LATCH System are now available. LATCH
child restraints make installation into the vehicle simple
and convenient.

When using the LATCH System, always follow the child
restraint manufactures installation instructions.

NOTE: If your child restraint seat is not LATCH com­patible, install the restraint using the vehicle seat belts.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55

Tether Anchors

There are tether strap anchorages behind all second row
seating positions and the driver’s side third row seating
position. The tether anchors are located in the rear
surface of the seat. When using the tether anchorages in
the second row seating position, ensure that the strap is
routed over the top of the seatback and under the head
restraint between the head restraint posts.

2

56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

When the tether anchorage is used in the third row
seating position, the strap should be positioned straight
over the top of the seatback.

Infants and Children

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 ensure you have the right seat for
your child. Use the restraint that is correct for your child:

•

Safety experts recommend that children ride
rearward-facing in the vehicle until they are at least
one year old and weigh at least 9 kg (20 lbs). Two types
of child restraints can be used rearward-facing: infant
carriers and 9convertible9 child seats. Both types of
child restraints are held in the vehicle by the lap/
shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage
system. Refer to “Lower Anchors and Tether for CHil­dren (LATCH)” in this section.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57

•

The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the
vehicle. It is recommended for children who weigh up
to about 9 kg (20 lbs). 9Convertible9 child seats can be
used either rearward-facing or forward-facing in the
vehicle. Convertible child seats often have a higher
weight limit in the rearward-facing direction than
infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing
by children who weigh more than 9 kg (20 lbs) but are
less than one year old.

•

Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in
the front seat of a vehicle with a front passenger
airbag. An airbag deployment could cause severe
injury or death to infants in this position.

•

Children who weigh more than 9 kg (20 lbs) and who
are older than one year can ride forward-facing in the
vehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible

child seats used in the forward-facing direction are for
children who weigh 9 to 18 kg (20 to 40 lbs) and who
are older than one year.

•

The belt-positioning booster seat is for children weigh­ing more than 18 kg (40 lbs), but who are still too small
to fit the vehicle’s seat belts properly. If the child can
not sit with knees bent over the vehicles seat cushion
while the child’s back is against the seat back, they
should use a belt-positioning booster seat. The child
and booster seat are held in the vehicle by the lap/
shoulder belt. (Some booster seats are equipped with a
front shield and are held in the vehicle by the lap
portion.)

NOTE: For additional information refer to
www.seatcheck.org.

2

58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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 manufacturer’s directions ex­actly when installing an infant or child restraint.

•

A rearward facing child restraint should only be
used in a rear seat. A rearward facing child re­straint in the front seat may be struck by a
deploying passenger airbag which may cause se­vere or fatal injury to the infant.

Here are some tips on getting the most out of your child
restraint:

•

Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it
has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety
Standards. We also recommend that you make sure

that you can install the child restraint in the vehicle
where you will use it, before you buy it.

•

The restraint must be appropriate for your child’s
weight and height. Check the label on the restraint for
weight and height limits.

•

Carefully follow the instructions that come with the
restraint. If you install the restraint improperly, it may
not work when you need it.

The passenger seat belts are equipped with cinching
latch plates, which are designed to keep the lap
portion tight around the child restraint so that it is not
necessary to use a locking clip. Pulling up on the
shoulder portion of the lap/shoulder belt will tighten
the belt. The cinching latch plate will keep the belt
tight, however, any seat belt system will loosen with
time, so check the belt occasionally and pull it tight if
necessary.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59

•

Buckle the child into the seat according to the child
restraint manufacturer’s directions.

•

When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the
vehicle with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle.
Don’t leave it loose in the vehicle. In a sudden stop or
collision, it could strike the occupants or seatbacks and
cause serious personal injury.

Installing A Child Restraint

We urge that you carefully follow the directions of the
manufacturer when installing your child restraint. Many,
but not all, restraint systems will be equipped with
separate straps on each side, with each having a hook or
connector and a means for adjusting the tension in the
strap. Forward-facing toddler restraints and some
rearward-facing infant restraints will also be equipped
with a tether strap, a hook and means for adjusting the
tension in the strap.

In general, you will first loosen the adjusters on the lower
straps and tether straps so that you can more easily attach
the hook or connector to the lower anchorages and tether
anchorages. Then tighten all three straps as you push the
child restraint rearward and downward into the seat.

Child restraint systems having attachments designed to
connect to the lower anchorages are now available. Child
restraints having tether straps and hooks for connection
to the seatback tether anchorage have been available for
some time. In fact, many child restraint manufacturers
will provide add-on tether strap kits for some of their
older products.

Because the lower anchorages are to be introduced to
passenger carrying vehicles over a period of years, child
restraint systems having attachments for those anchor­ages will continue to have features for installation in
vehicles using the lap or lap/shoulder belt. They will also

2

60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

have tether straps, and you are urged to take advantage
of all of the available attachments provided with your
child restraint in any vehicle.

Not all child restraint systems will be installed as we
have described here. Again, carefully follow the instruc­tions that come with the child restraint system.

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.

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 lap/shoulder belt in a rear seat.

•

Make sure that the child is upright in the seat.

•

The lap portion should be low on the hips and as snug
as possible.

•

Check belt fit periodically. 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. Never allow a
child to put the shoulder belt under an arm or behind
their back.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61

Transporting Pets

Airbags deploying in the front seat could harm your pet.
An unrestrained pet could be thrown about and possibly
injured, or injure a passenger during panic braking or in
a collision.

Pets should be restrained in the rear seat in pet harnesses
or pet carriers that are secured by seat belts.

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

A long break-in period is not required for the engine in
your new vehicle.

Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km).
After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or 55
mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable.

While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration, within the
limits of local traffic laws, contributes to a good break-in.
Wide open throttle acceleration in low gear can be
detrimental and should be avoided.

The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a
high quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil
changes should be consistent with anticipated climate
conditions under which vehicle operations will occur.
The recommended viscosity and quality grades are
shown in Section 7 of this manual. NON-DETERGENT
OR STRAIGHT MINERAL OILS MUST NEVER BE
USED.

A new engine may consume some oil during its first few
thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This should be
considered as a normal part of the break-in and not
interpreted as an indication of difficulty.

2

62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

SAFETY TIPS
Exhaust Gas

WARNING!

Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon
monoxide (CO) which is colorless and odorless.
Breathing it can make you unconscious and can
eventually poison you. To avoid breathing (CO)
follow the safety tips below.

Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in confined
areas any longer than needed to move your vehicle in or
out of the area.

If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the engine
running, adjust your heating or cooling controls to force
outside air into the vehicle. Set the blower at high speed.

WARNING!

If you are required to drive with the liftgate open,
make sure that all windows are closed, and the
climate control blower switch is set at high speed.
DO NOT use the recirculation mode.

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle

Seat Belts

Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts,
frays and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced
immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system.

Front seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a
collision. Rear seat belt assemblies must be replaced after
a collision if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn
webbing, etc. If there is any question regarding belt or
retractor condition, replace the belt.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63

Airbag Light

The light should come on and remain on for 6 to 8
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned ON. If the LED is not lit during starting, have it
checked. If the light stays on or comes on while driving,
have the system checked by an authorized dealer.

Defroster

Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should be able to
feel the air directed against the windshield.

Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle

Tires

Examine tires for excessive tread wear or uneven wear
patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or other objects
lodged in the tread. Inspect tread and sidewall for cuts or
cracks. Check wheel nuts for tightness, and tires (includ­ing spare) for proper pressure.

Lights

Have someone observe the operation of exterior lights
while you work the controls. Check turn signal and high
beam indicator lights on the instrument panel.

Fluid Leaks

Check area under vehicle after overnight parking for fuel,
engine coolant, oil or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline
fumes are detected or fuel, power steering fluid or brake
fluid leaks are suspected, the cause should be located and
corrected immediately.

2

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

m Mirrors ...............................69

▫ Heated Remote Control Mirrors ............72

3

▫ Inside Day/Night Mirror .................69

▫ Automatic Dimming Mirror — If Equipped ....70

▫ Driver’s Side Outside Mirror Auto Dimmer — If

Equipped ............................70

▫ Exterior Mirrors Folding Feature ...........70

▫ Outside Mirror — Driver’s Side ............71

▫ Outside Mirror — Passenger’s Side ..........71

▫ Power Remote-Control Mirrors .............72

▫ Illuminated Vanity Mirrors ................73

m Hands–Free Communication (UConnect™) — If

Equipped .............................73

▫ Operation ............................75

▫ Phone Call Features ....................79

▫ Advanced Phone Connectivity .............81

▫ UConnect™ System Features ..............82

66 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

m Seats .................................85

▫ 10–Way Driver’s Power Seat — If Equipped . . .85

▫ 8–Way Driver’s Power Seat — If Equipped ....85

▫ 4–Way Passenger’s Power Seat .............85

▫ Adjustable Head Restraints ...............86

▫ Heated Seats — If Equipped ..............86

▫ Memory Seat — If Equipped ..............88

▫ Second Row Manual Seat Recliner ..........91

▫ Second Row Manual Seat Adjuster ..........92

▫ Second Row Fold & Tumble Seats ...........93

▫ Third Row Easy Exit ....................94

▫ Third Row Seating Flexibility ..............96

▫ Load Floor ...........................97

▫ Plastic Grocery Bag Retainer ..............98

m Adjustable Pedals — If Equipped ............99

m To Open And Close The Hood .............100

m Lights ...............................102

▫ Overhead Console Map/Reading Lights .....102

▫ Interior Lights .......................103

▫ Multi-Function Lever ...................103

▫ Headlights, Parking Lights, Instrument Panel

Lights .............................103

▫ Automatic Headlights ..................105

▫ Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only) .....105

▫ Lights-On Reminder ...................105

▫ Headlight Time Delay ..................105

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 67

▫ Fog Lights — If Equipped ...............106

▫ Turn Signals .........................106

▫ Highbeam/Lowbeam Select Switch .........107

▫ Passing Light ........................107

m Windshield Wipers And Washers ...........107

▫ Windshield Washers ...................107

▫ Mist Feature .........................108

▫ Windshield Wiper Operation .............108

▫ Intermittent Wiper System ...............108

▫ Rear Window Wiper/Washer .............108

m Tilt Steering Column ....................110

m Traction Control Switch — If Equipped .......110

m Electronic Speed Control ..................111

▫ To Activate ..........................112

▫ To Set At A Desired Speed ...............112

▫ To Deactivate ........................112

▫ To Resume Speed .....................113

▫ To Vary The Speed Setting ...............113

▫ To Accelerate For Passing ...............113

m Overhead Console — If Equipped ...........114

▫ Courtesy/Reading Lights ................114

▫ Sunglasses Storage ....................115

m Garage Door Opener — If Equipped .........115

▫ Programming Homelink ................116

▫ Canadian Programming/Gate Programming . .118

▫ Using Homelink ......................119

3

68 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

▫ Erasing Homelink Buttons ...............119

▫ Reprogramming a Single Homelink Button . . .120

▫ Security ............................120

m Power Sunroof — If Equipped .............121

▫ Express Open Feature ..................122

▫ Wind Buffeting .......................123

▫ Sunroof Maintenance ...................123

m Electrical Power Outlets ..................124

▫ Electrical Outlet Use With Engine Off .......125

m Cupholders ...........................126

▫ Front Seat Cupholders ..................126

▫ Second Row Seat Cupholders .............126

▫ Third Row Seat Cupholders ..............126

m Storage ..............................126

▫ Console Features ......................126

▫ Rear Cargo Storage Bin .................127

▫ Retractable Cargo Area Cover — If Equipped . 127

▫ Cargo Tie-Down Hooks .................128

m Roof Luggage Rack — If Equipped ..........130

m Load Leveling System ...................132

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 69

MIRRORS
Inside Day/Night Mirror

Adjust the mirror to center on the view through the rear
window. A two point pivot system allows for horizontal
and vertical adjustment of the mirror.

Annoying headlight glare can be reduced by moving the
small control under the mirror to the night position
(toward rear of vehicle). The mirror should be adjusted
while set in the day position (toward windshield).

3

70 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Automatic Dimming Mirror — If Equipped

If the switch is in the “Auto” position the mirror will
automatically adjust for annoying headlight glare from
vehicles behind you. You can turn the feature on or off by
pressing the button at the base of the mirror.A light in the
mirror will illuminate to indicate when this feature is on.

CAUTION!

To avoid damage to the mirror during cleaning,
never spray any cleaning solution directly onto the
mirror. Apply the solution onto a clean cloth and
wipe the mirror clean.

Driver’s Side Outside Mirror Auto Dimmer — If
Equipped

This mirror automatically adjusts for annoying headlight
glare from vehicles behind you. You can turn this feature
on or off by pressing the button at the base of the
Rearview Mirror.

Exterior Mirrors Folding Feature

All exterior mirrors are hinged and may be moved either
forward or rearward to resist damage. The hinges have
three detent positions; full forward, full rearward, and
normal.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 71

Outside Mirror — Driver’s Side

Adjust the outside mirror to center on the adjacent lane of
traffic, with a slight overlap of the view obtained on the
inside mirror.

Outside Mirror — Passenger’s Side

Adjust the convex outside mirror so you can just see the
side of your vehicle in the portion of the mirror closest to
the vehicle. This type of mirror will give a much wider
view to the rear, and especially of the lane next to your
vehicle.

WARNING!

Vehicles and other objects seen in the right side
convex mirror will look smaller and farther away
than they really are. Relying too much on your right
side mirror could cause you to collide with another
vehicle or other object.

Use your inside mirror when judging the size or
distance of a vehicle seen in this convex mirror.

3

72 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Power Remote-Control Mirrors

Use the mirror select switch, located on the driver’s door
trim panel above the power window switches, to adjust
the view obtained in the outside mirrors.

Press the rocker switch to the L or R for Left or Right
mirror selection. Use the center off position to guard
against accidentally moving a mirror position.

Select a mirror and press one of the four arrows for the
direction you want the mirror to move.

Power mirror preselected positions can be controlled by
the optional Memory Seat Feature. Refer to “Memory
Seat” in section 3 of this manual.

Heated Remote Control Mirrors

These mirrors are heated to melt frost or ice. This feature
is activated whenever you turn on the Rear Window
Defrost.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 73

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors

An illuminated vanity mirror is on the sun visor. To use
the mirror, rotate the sun visor down and swing the
mirror cover upward. The lights turn on automatically.
Closing the mirror cover turns off the lights.

Sun Visor Extension

This feature has a pull out extension on the sun visor for
increased coverage.

HANDS–FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect™) —
IF EQUIPPED

UConnect™ is a voice-activated, hands-free, in-vehicle
communications system. UConnect™; allows you to dial
your cellular phone using simple voice commands (e.g.,
“Call Mike Work” or “Dial 248-555-1212”). Your cellular
phone’s audio is transmitted through your vehicle’s
stereo system; the system will automatically mute your
radio before receiving or sending a call.

UConnect™ allows you to transfer calls between the
system and your cellular phone as you enter or exit your
vehicle, and enables you to mute the system’s micro­phone for private conversations.

3

74 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

The UConnect™; phone book enables you to store up to
32 names and four numbers per name. This system is
driven through your Bluetooth™ Hands-Free Profile
cellular phone. UConnect™ features Bluetooth™ technol­ogy - the global standard that enables different electronic
devices to connect to each other without wires or a
docking station, so UConnect™ works no matter where
you stow your cellular phone (be it your purse, pocket, or
briefcase). UConnect™ allows up to seven cellular
phones to be linked to the system, and it is available in
English, French, or Spanish formats (as equipped).

The rearview mirror contains the microphone for the
system and the control buttons that will enable you to
access the system. The diagram below shows the mirror
with the appropriate buttons. Individual button behavior
is discussed in the “Operation” Section.

The UConnect™ system can be used with any Hands
Free Profile certified Bluetooth™ cellular phone. If your
cellular phone has a different profile (i.e. headset profile),
you will not be able to use any UConnect™ features.

The UConnect™ system is fully integrated into your
vehicle, including your vehicle’s stereo system. All voice

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 75

prompts as well as the other party’s voice in a conversa­tion will be played over your vehicle’s stereo system. The
volume of the UConnect™ system can be controlled
through your normal stereo controls.

The radio display will be used for visual prompts from
the UConnect™ system such as caller ID.

Operation

Voice commands can be used in the operation of the
UConnect™ system and to navigate through the UCon­nect™ menu structure. Voice commands should be given
after each UConnect™ system prompt. You will be
prompted for a specific command and then guided
through the available options. There are two ways to give
commands to the UConnect™ system:

•

You can say 9Dial9 at the 9Ready9 prompt. When
prompted for the phone number you wish to dial, say
the phone number (9123 456 78909).

•

Alternatively as you become familiar with the UCon­nect™ system, you can combine the commands and
say 9Dial 123 456 78909.

Pairing a Cellular Phone to the UConnect™ System

To begin using your UConnect™ system, you must pair
your compatible Bluetooth™ enabled cellular phone. To
complete the registration process, you will need to refer­ence your cellular phone owner’s manual.

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Phone Pairing9.

•

You will be asked to say a four-digit pin number into
the UConnect™ system which you will later need to
enter into your cellular phone during the cellular
phone pairing process. You can enter any four-digit
pin number. You will not need to remember this pin
number after the initial registration process.

3

76 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

•

The UConnect™ system will then prompt you to begin
the cellular phone pairing process on your cellular
phone. Please see your cellular phone user’s manual
for instructions on how to complete this step.

•

For identification purposes, you will be prompted to
give the UConnect™ system a name for your cellular
phone. Each cellular phone that is paired should be
given a unique phone name.

•

You will then be asked to give your cellular phone a
priority level between 1 and 7, 1 having the highest
priority. You can connect up to seven cellular phones
to your UConnect™ system and the priority allows the
UConnect™ system to know which cellular phone to
use if multiple cellular phones are in the vehicle at the
same time. For example, if a priority 3 and priority 5
cellular phone are both in the vehicle, the UConnect™

system will use the priority 3 cellular phone when you
make a call. You can select to use a lower priority
cellular phone at any time.

Making a Phone Call Using Digit Dialing

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Dial9 or 9Call9 followed
by the phone number you wish to dial. For example,
you can say 9Dial 123 456 78909. The phone number
that you enter must be a valid length.

Making a Phone Call Using Your UConnect™
Phonebook

•

Press the “Phone” button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Dial9 or 9Call9 followed
by the name and designation of a phonebook entry
that you wish to dial. For example, you can say 9Call
John Doe Work9.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 77

Add Names to Your UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the “Phone” button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook New En­try9.

•

When prompted, say the name of the new entry.

•

Next, enter the number designation (e.g. “Home”,
“Work”, “Mobile”, or “Pager”). This will allow you to
have multiple numbers for each phonebook entry.

•

Recite the phone number for the phonebook entry that
you are adding.

After you are finished adding an entry into the phone­book, you will be given the opportunity to add more
phone numbers to the current entry or to return to the
main menu.

The UConnect™ system will allow you to enter up to 32
names into the phonebook with each name having up to
four associated phone numbers and designations.

Edit Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook Edit9.

•

You will then be asked for the name of the phonebook
entry that you wish to edit.

•

Next, choose the number designation that you wish to
edit. The choices are home, work, mobile, or pager.

•

Recite the new phone number for the phonebook entry
that you are editing.

After you are finished editing an entry in the phonebook,
you will be given the opportunities to edit another entry
in the phonebook, call the number you just edited, or
return to the main menu.

3

78 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Phonebook edit can be used to add another phone
number to a name entry that already exists in the
phonebook. For example, the entry John Doe may have a
mobile and a home number, but you can add John Doe’s
work number later through phonebook edit.

Delete Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook Delete9.

•

After you enter the phonebook delete menu, you will
then be asked for the name of the phonebook entry
that you wish to delete. You can either say the name of
a phonebook entry that you wish to delete or you can
say 9List Names9 to hear a list of the entries in the
phonebook from which you can choose. To select one
of the entries from the list, press the 9Voice Recogni­tion9 button while the UConnect™ system is playing
the desired entry and say 9Delete9.

•

After you enter the name, the UConnect™ system will
ask you if you wish to delete the home, work, mobile,
or pager number for this entry.

Delete All Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook Delete All9.

•

The UConnect™ system will ask you to verify that you
wish to delete all the entries from the phonebook.

•

After confirmation, the phonebook entries will be
deleted.

List All Names in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook List
Names9.

•

The UConnect™ system will play the names of all the
phonebook entries.

•

To call one of the names in the list, press the ’Voice
Recognition’ button during the playing of the desired
name and say 9Call9.

•

The UConnect™ system will then prompt you as to
number designation you wish to call.

•

The selected number will be dialed.

Phone Call Features

The following feature(s) can be accessed through the
UConnect™ system if the feature(s) are available on your
cellular service plan. For example, if your cellular service
plan provides three-way calling, this feature can be
accessed through the UConnect™ system.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 79

Answer or Reject an Incoming Call - No Call
Currently in Progress

When you receive a call on your cellular phone, the
UConnect™ system will interrupt the stereo audio and
will ask if you would like to answer the call by pressing
the ’Phone’ button. Press the ’Phone’ button to answer
the call. To reject the call, press the ’Phone’ button until
you hear a single beep indicating that the incoming call
was rejected.

Answer or Reject an Incoming Call - Call
Currently in Progress

If a call is currently in progress and you have another
incoming call, press the ’Phone’ button to place the
current call on hold and answer the incoming call. To
reject the incoming call, you can disregard the call and
continue with your current conversation.

3

80 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Making a Second Call while Current Call in
Progress

To make a second call while you are currently in a call,
press the ’Voice Recognition’ button and say 9Dial9 or
9Call9 followedby the phone number or phonebook entry
you wish to call. The first call will be on hold while the
second call is in progress.

Putting a Call on Hold and Retrieving a Call from
Hold

To put a call on hold, press the ’Phone’ button until you
hear a single beep which will indicate that the call has
been placed on hold. To bring the call back from hold,
press the ’Phone’ button.

Toggling Between Two Calls

If two calls are in progress (one active and one on hold),
press the ’Phone’ button until you hear a single beep
indicating that the active and hold status of the two calls
have switched. Only one call can be placed on hold at one
time.

Conference Call

When two calls are in progress (one active and one on
hold), press the ’Phone’ button until you hear a double
beep indicating that the two calls have been joined into
one conference call.

Three-Way Calling

To initiate three-way calling, press the ’Voice Recogni­tion’ button while a call is in progress and make a second
phone call. When the second call is established, press the
’Phone’ button until you hear a double beep indicating
that the two calls have been joined into one conference
call.

Call Termination

To end a call in progress, press the ’Phone’ button. All
calls in progress will be terminated.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 81

Phone Redial

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Redial9.

•

The UConnect™ system will call the last number that
was dialed on your cellular phone. This may not be the
last number dialed by your UConnect™ system.

Advanced Phone Connectivity

Transferring an Active Call between the
UConnect™ System and Your Cellular Phone

The UConnect™ system allows ongoing calls to be trans­ferred to your cellular phone or to the UConnect™
system without terminating the call. To transfer an ongo­ing call from your cellular phone to the UConnect™
system or vice versa, press the ’Voice Recognition’ button
and say 9Transfer Call9.

Delete Paired Cellular Phones

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Phone Pairing9.

•

At the next prompt, say 9Delete9.

•

You will be asked to say the name of the phone that
you wish to delete. You can either say the name of the
phone that you wish to delete or you can say 9All9 to
delete all the phones.

Connect or Disconnect the Connection between the
UConnect™ System and Your Cellular Phone

Your cellular phone can be paired with many different
electronic devices, but can only be actively 9connected9
with one electronic device at a time.

3

82 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

If you would like to connect or disconnect the Blue­tooth™ connection between a paired cellular phone and
the UConnect™ system, follow the instruction described
in your cellular phone user’s manual.

List Paired Cellular Phone Names

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup List Phones9 and
the UConnect™ system will play the phone names of
all paired cellular phones in order from highest prior­ity to lowest priority.

Select a Lower Priority Paired Cellular Phone

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Select Phone9.

•

When prompted, say the phone name of the cellular
phone you wish to use, or say 9List Phones9 to hear a
list of all the phones that have been paired to your

UConnect™ system. To select a phone from the list,
press the ’Voice Recognition’ button and say 9Select9.

•

The lower priority phone will only be used for the next
phone call. After that, the UConnect™ system will
return to using the highest priority phone in the
vehicle.

UConnect™ System Features

Barge In - Touch Tone Phone Inputs

You can use your UConnect™ system to access a voice
mail system, an automated service, or any other phone
number that you can dial with any phone. When calling
a number with your UConnect™ system that normally
requires you to enter in a touch-tone sequence on your
cellular phone keypad, you can push the ’Voice Recogni­tion’ button and say the sequence you wish to enter
followed by 9Send9. For example, if required to enter your
pin number, you can press the ’Voice Recognition’ button
and say 93746Send9, or whatever you have made your

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 83

pin. This method can also be used in instances where you
are pressing a number on your keypad to navigate
through a menu structure or to enter a number for a
pager.

Barge In - Overriding Prompts

The ’Voice Recognition’ button can be used when you
wish to skip part of a prompt and issue your voice
recognition command immediately. For example, if a
prompt is playing 9Would you like to pair a phone, clear
a{9, you could press the ’Voice Recognition’ button and
say 9Pair A Phone9 to select that option without having to
listen to the rest of the voice prompt.

Language Selection

To change the language that the UConnect™ system is
using, press the ’Phone’ button and say the name of the
language you wish to switch to (English, Español, or
Français as equipped). After selecting one of the lan­guages, all prompts and voice commands will be in the
selected language.

Turning Confirmation Prompts On/Off

Turning confirmation prompts off will stop the system
from confirming your choices (e.g. the UConnect™ sys­tem will not repeat a phone number before you dial it).

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Confirmation9.
The UConnect™ system will play the current confir­mation prompt status and you will be given the choice
to change it.

Low Signal, Battery Strength, and Roam
Notification

The UConnect™ system will provide notification to
inform you if your cellular phone is in roaming status,
has low signal strength, or has a low battery when you
are trying to place a phone call.

3

84 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Dialing Using the Cellular Phone Keypad

You can dial a phone number with your cellular phone
keypad and still use the UConnect™ system. By dialing a
number with your paired Bluetooth™ cellular phone, the
audio will be played through your vehicle’s stereo sys­tem. The UConnect™ system will work the same as if
you dialed the number using voice recognition.

Mute/Unmute

When you mute the UConnect™ system, you will still be
able to hear the conversation coming from the other
party, but the other party will not be able to hear you. In
order to mute the UConnect™ system press the ’Voice
Recognition’ button and say 9Mute9. In order to unmute
the UConnect™ system; press the ’Voice Recognition’
button and say 9Unmute9.

Help

If you need assistance at any prompt or if you want to
know what your options are at any prompt, say 9Help9.
The UConnect™ system will play all the options at any
prompt if you ask for help.

Cancel

At any prompt, you can say 9Cancel9 and you will be
returned to the previous menu.

Emergency Assistance

If you are in an emergency, say 9Dial Emergency9 or 9Call
Emergency9 and the UConnect™ system will instruct
your cellular phone to call 911.

Towing Assistance

If you need towing assistance, say 9Dial Towing Assis­tance9 or 9Call Towing Assistance9. Please refer to the
24-Hour Towing Assistance coverage details in the
DaimlerChrysler Motors Company 24-Hour Towing As­sistance Program Guide.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 85

SEATS
10–Way Driver’s Power Seat — If Equipped

The driver’s power seat switches are located on the
driver’s front door trim panel. The bottom switch con­trols up/down, forward/rearward, and tilt adjustment.
The top switch controls the seatback recline adjustment
and the middle switch controls the lumbar adjustment.

WARNING!

Adjust the seat only while the vehicle is parked.
Adjusting a seat while the vehicle is moving is
dangerous. The sudden movement of the seat could
cause you to lose control. The seat belt might not be
properly adjusted and you could be injured.

8–Way Driver’s Power Seat — If Equipped

The driver’s power seat switches are located on the
driver’s front door trim panel. The bottom switch con­trols up/down, forward/rearward, and tilt adjustment.
The top switch controls the seatback recline adjustment.

4–Way Passenger’s Power Seat

The front passenger’s power seat switches are located on
the passenger’s front door trim panel. The bottom switch
controls forward and rearward adjustment. The top
switch controls the seatback recline adjustment.

3

86 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CAUTION!

Do not place any article under a power seat or
impede its ability to move as it may cause damage to
the seat controls. Seat travel may become limited if
movement is stopped by an obstruction in the seat’s
path.

Adjustable Head Restraints

Head restraints can reduce the risk of whiplash injury in
the event of impact from the rear. Pull up or push down
on the head restraint so that the upper edge is as high as
practical. To raise the head restraint, pull up on the head
restraint. To lower the head restraint, depress the release
tab located at the base of the head restraint and push
down on the head restraint.

Heated Seats — If Equipped

This feature heats the driver, front passenger and second
row seats. The controls for the front heated seats are
located on the door trim panel next to the power seat
switches.

Press the switch once to select a heat setting (high or low)
and press the switch a second time in the same direction
to turn the heated seat off. The indicator light will show
when LOW or HIGH heat is ON.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 87

The controls for the second row heated seats are located
on the center console between the seats. Press the switch
once to select a heat setting (high or low) and press the
switch a second time in the same direction to turn the
heated seat off. The indicator light will show when LOW
or HIGH heat is ON.

3

88 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE:

•

If the lights in the second row heated seat switch begin
to flash when the switch is pressed,it indicates that the
heated seat is not functioning properly and that ser­vice is required.See your authorized dealer for service.

•

Once a heat setting is selected, heat will be felt within
2 to 3 minutes.

•

The heated seats will turn off when the ignition switch
is turned to the OFF position.

Memory Seat — If Equipped

If your vehicle is equipped with memory systems, your
remote keyless entry transmitter or memory seat buttons
on the driver’s door panel can be used to recall the
driver’s seat, outside mirrors, adjustable pedals (if
equipped) and radio station presets to saved positions.

The memory seat buttons located on the driver’s door
will always recall stored settings. The remote keyless
entry transmitter can be programmed to recall positions
when the UNLOCK button is pressed. Refer to the
following procedure on how to link a remote keyless
entry transmitter to a position.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 89

NOTE: The vehicle must be in Park to recall memory
positions. If a recall is attempted when the vehicle is not
in Park, a message will be displayed in the Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).

To recall memory positions press memory button number
1 if you are recalling the memory position for driver one
or press memory button number 2 if you are recalling the
memory position for driver two. A recall can be cancelled
by pressing any of the memory buttons during a recall.
When a recall is cancelled, the seat stops moving and a
delay of approximately one second will occur before any
other recalls can be selected.

Your vehicle has been delivered with two remote keyless
entry transmitters. One or both transmitters can be linked
to either memory position. Up to eight remote keyless
entry transmitters can be used with your vehicle. The
memory seat system can also accommodate up to eight

transmitters linked to either of the two stored seat
positions or any combination of the two positions.

To Program Memory Seat Buttons & RKE
Transmitters, Follow These Steps:

1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.

2. Select Remote Linked to Memory from the EVIC and
enter “Yes”.

3. Use the seat, mirror and adjustable pedal switches to
adjust the seat, recliner, side view mirrors and adjustable
pedals to the desired positions.

4. Set the radio station presets (up to 10 AM and 10 FM
stations can be set).

5. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and
remove the key.

3

90 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

6. Press and release the SET (S) button located on the
driver’s door. A light in the button will flash telling you
that you are in the set memory mode. You have five
seconds to complete the next step.

7. Within 5 seconds, press and release button 1 or 2 on
the driver’s door. A chime will sound signaling you that
the driver memory has been set. A message will also be
displayed in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC), indicating a position has been set.

8. Within 5 seconds, press and release the LOCK button
on one of the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitters. A
chime will sound signaling you that the transmitter has
been successfully linked. A message will also be dis­played in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC), indicating the transmitter has been linked.

Repeat the above steps for the second position using the
other driver’s door numbered button and Remote Key­less Entry Transmitter.

Each time the SET (S) button and a numbered button are
pressed, you erase the old memory and store a new one.

To Disable A Transmitter Link, Follow These Steps:

1. Select “Remote Linked To Memory” from the Elec­tronic Vehicle Information Center, Customer Program­mable features.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and
remove the key.

3. Press and release the SET (S) button located on the
driver’s door. A light in the button will flash telling you
that you are in the set memory mode. You have five
seconds to complete the next step.

4. Within 5 seconds, press and release button 1 or 2 on
the driver’s door. A chime will sound signaling you that
the driver memory has been set. A message will also be
displayed in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC), indicating a position has been set.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 91

5. Within 5 seconds, press and release the UNLOCK
button on the remote keyless entry transmitters. A chime
will sound signaling you that the transmitter link has
been successfully disabled. A message will also be dis­played in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC), indicating the transmitter has been disabled.

To disable another transmitter from memory positions 1
or 2, repeat steps 1– 4 for each transmitter.

NOTE: This function can be selected using the “Cus­tomer Programmable Features” in the Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC) section, Otherwise see your
authorized dealer.

Second Row Manual Seat Recliner

The recliner mechanism control is on the outboard side of
the seat. To recline, lean forward slightly, lift the lever,
then push back to the desired position and release the
lever. Lean forward and lift the lever to return the

seatback to its normal position. Using body pressure, lean
forward and rearward on the seat to be sure the seatback
has latched.

3

NOTE: When using the recliner mechanism with the 3rd
row seat folded down, the second row seat may need to
be adjusted forward to achieve full recline.

92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

Do not ride with the seatback reclined so that the
shoulder belt is no longer resting against your chest.
In a collision you could slide under the seat belt and
be seriously or fatally injured. Use the recliner only
when the vehicle is parked.

Second Row Manual Seat Adjuster

The adjusting bar is located under the front of the seat.
Pull the bar up and move the seat to the desired position.
Release the bar to lock the seat into position.

Using body pressure, move forward and rearward on the
seat to be sure the seat adjusters have latched.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 93

WARNING!

Adjust the seat only while the vehicle is parked.
Adjusting a seat while the vehicle is moving is
dangerous. The seat belt might not be properly
adjusted and you could be injured.

Second Row Fold & Tumble Seats

The second row seats can be folded and tumbled forward
for easy access to the third seat or rear cargo area.

To fold and tumble the seat, follow these steps:

1. Remove any obstructions from the floor in front of the
seat.

2. Lower the head restraint to its full downward position
and rotate the arm rest to the upright position.

3. Move the seat to the full rear position.

4. Pull up on the seatback release lever located on the
outboard side of the seat labeled “1” and fold the
seatback down.

3

To assure the seatback is latched in the folded position,
additional downward pressure on the seatback may be
required when folding.

94 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

5. Pull up on the release handle labeled “2” and lift
firmly to tumble the seat fully forward. If the seat
contacts the rear of the front seat, move the front seat
forward.

To relatch the seat, tilt the seat rearward and push down
firmly to engage the rear attachments. Then lift the
seatback release lever labeled “1” and pull the seatback
up to return it to its full upright position.

WARNING!

In a collision, you or others in your vehicle could be
injured if seats are not properly latched to their floor
attachments. Always be sure the seats are fully
latched.

Third Row Easy Exit

For passengers sitting in the third row seats, the second
row seats can be folded and tumbled forward for easy
exit.

To fold and tumble the seat forward, follow these steps:

1. Pull up on the seatback release handle “1” located on
the back of the seat to fold the seatback down.

2. Pull the release strap “2” located at the bottom of the
seat to lift and tumble the seat forward.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 95

3

To relatch the seat, tilt the seat rearward and push down
firmly to engage the rear attachments. Then lift the
seatback release lever labeled “1” and pull the seatback
up to return it to its full upright position.

96 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Third Row Seating Flexibility

The third row seats may be used with either or both
seatbacks folded forward for additional storage space.

To fold the seat, remove any objects from in front of or on
the seat. Then pull handle located on the seatback and
push it forward.

WARNING!

Do not sit in the 3rd row seat with the second row
seatbacks folded or with the second row seats folded
and tumbled. In a collision, you could slide under
the seat belt and be seriously or even fatally injured.

To raise the 3rd row seat, lift up on the seatback and push
rearward until the seatback is latched. Move the seatback
forward to be sure the seatback is fully latched.

CAUTION!

Be sure there is nothing in front of the 3rd row seat
cushion before folding it down. Damage to the seat
may occur.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 97

WARNING!

• Not all head restraints in this vehicle are the same.

Head restraints from one seating position should not
be removed and installed in any other seating posi­tion. In a collision, serious injury or death may result
if the proper head restraint is not installed on each
seat.

• The cargo area in the rear of the vehicle should not

be used as a play area by children. They could be
seriously injured in a collision. Children should be
seated and using the proper restraint system.

• It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area,

inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people
riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously
injured or killed.

• 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.

Load Floor

For additional cargo space, the second and third row
seatbacks may be folded forward and the load floor
extended to cover the center console.

To extend the load floor, follow these steps:

1. Move the second row seats to the full rear position.

2. Fold the second and third row seatbacks down.

3

98 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

3. Pull on the load floor strap and lift the panel from the
driver’s second row seatback over the center console and
onto the passenger second row seat.

NOTE: Be sure to reattach the strap to secure the load
floor panel when not in use.

Plastic Grocery Bag Retainer

Retainer hooks which will hold plastic grocery bag
handles are built into the seatbacks of all front seats. The
floor supports the partial weight of the bagged goods.

ADJUSTABLE PEDALS — IF EQUIPPED

This feature allows both the brake and accelerator pedals
to move toward or away from the driver to provide
improved position with the steering wheel. The adjust­able pedal system is designed to allow a greater range of
driver comfort for steering wheel tilt and seat position.
The switch is located on the drivers door trim panel next
to the power seat switches.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 99

Press the switch forward to move the pedals forward
(toward the front of the vehicle).

Press the switch rearward to move the pedals rearward
(toward the driver).

•

The pedals can be adjusted with the ignition OFF.

•

The pedals can be adjusted while driving.

3

100 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

•

The pedals cannot be adjusted when the vehicle is in R
(Reverse) or when the Speed Control is ON. Amessage
will be displayed in the Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC) if the pedals are attempted to be ad­justed when the system is locked out (“Adjustable
Pedal Disabled — Cruise Control Engaged” or “Ad­justable Pedal Disabled — Vehicle In Reverse”).

NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with memory seat
feature, your remotekeyless entry transmitter or memory
seat buttons on the driver’s door panel can be used to
recall the adjustable pedals to saved positions.

CAUTION!

Do not place any article under the adjustable pedals
or impede its ability to move as it may cause damage
to the pedal controls. Pedal travel may become
limited if movement is stopped by an obstruction in
the adjustable pedal’s path.

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD

To open the hood, two latches must be released. First pull
the hood release lever located under the left side of the
instrument panel.