Dodge ND Dakota 2007, Dakota 2007 User Manual

SECTION PAGE

1

INTRODUCTION

2

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

4

INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS

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

..............................75

.........................................131

.................................................183

..............................................271

...............................................289

..................................................349

.........................................369

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

INDEX

....................................................................377

10

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1

䡵 Introduction ........................... 4

䡵 How To Use This Manual ..................4

䡵 Warnings And Cautions ................... 6

䡵 Vehicle Identification Number ............... 6

䡵 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 Mopar威 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 reproductive harm. 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 a
stamped plate located on the left front corner of the
instrument panel pad, 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

䡵 A Word About Your Keys ..................12

▫ Ignition Key Removal ...................12

▫ Locking Doors With The Key ..............14

䡵 Steering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ..........15

▫ If You Wish To Manually Lock The

Steering Wheel ........................15

▫ To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........15

▫ Automatic Transmission Ignition

Interlock System .......................15

䡵 Sentry Key — If Equipped .................15

2

▫ Replacement Keys ......................16

▫ Customer Key Programming ..............17

▫ General Information ....................18

䡵 Security Alarm System — If Equipped .........18

▫ ToSetTheAlarm ......................18

▫ To Disarm The System ...................18

䡵 Illuminated Entry ........................19

▫ Vehicles Equipped With Power Door Locks ....19

䡵 Remote Keyless Entry .....................20

10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

▫ To Unlock The Doors ...................20

▫ To Lock The Doors .....................21

▫ Using The Panic Alarm ..................22

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

▫ Programming Additional Transmitters ........23

▫ Battery Replacement ....................25

䡵 Remote Starting System — If Equipped ........26

䡵 Door Locks ............................27

▫ Manual Door Locks .....................27

▫ Power Door Locks .....................28

▫ Child Protection Door Lock ...............31

䡵 Windows .............................32

▫ Power Windows .......................32

▫ Auto Down (Driver’s Side Only) ...........33

▫ Window Lockout Switch .................33

▫ Wind Buffeting ........................33

䡵 Occupant Restraints ......................34

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................35

▫ Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....39

▫ Automatic Locking Mode – If Equipped ......40

▫ Center Lap Belts .......................40

▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................41

▫ Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System

(BeltAlert) ...........................41

▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............43

▫ Seat Belt Extender ......................43

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11

▫ Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental

Restraint System (SRS) – Airbags ...........44

▫ Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch –

If Equipped ..........................54

▫ Event Data Recorder (EDR) ...............56

▫ Child Restraint ........................58

䡵 Engine Break-In Recommendations ...........71

䡵 SafetyTips ............................72

▫ Exhaust System .......................72

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside

TheVehicle ..........................73

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The

Vehicle..............................73

2

12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

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

Ignition Key Removal

Automatic Transmission

Place the shift lever in PARK. Turn the ignition switch to
the LOCK position, and remove the key.

Ignition Switch Positions

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13

NOTE: If you try to remove the key before you place the
lever in PARK, the key may become trapped temporarily
in the ignition cylinder. If this occurs, rotate the key to the
right slightly, then remove the key as described. If a
malfunction occurs, the system will trap the key in the
ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is
inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped but
the key cannot be removed until you obtain service.

WARNING!

Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving
children in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be
seriously or fatally injured. 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.

2

14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Manual Transmission—If Equipped

When the steering wheel is in the LOCK position, the
steering and ignition systems are locked to provide
antitheft protection for your vehicle. It may be difficult to
turn the key from the LOCK position when starting your
vehicle. Move the steering wheel left and right while
turning the key until it turns easily. To remove the key,
depress and hold the release button located between the
ignition switch and the instrument panel. Turn the igni­tion key to LOCK and remove the key.

Ignition Switch Positions

Locking Doors With The Key

You can insert the key with either side up. To lock the
door, turn the key rearward, to unlock the door, turn the
key forward. See Section 7 of this manual for door lock
lubrication.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED

Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering
wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle with­out the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved no
more than 1/2 turn in either direction and the key is not
in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock.

If You Wish To Manually Lock The Steering
Wheel:

With the engine running, turn the steering wheel upside
down, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the
steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock
engages.

To Release The Steering Wheel Lock:

Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine.
If the key is difficult to turn, move the wheel slightly to
the right or left to disengage the lock.

NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage
the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to

disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage
the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.

Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock System

This system prevents the key from being removed unless
the shift lever is in PARK. It also prevents shifting out of
PARK unless the key is in the ACC, or ON positions, and
the brake pedal is depressed.

SENTRY KEY — IF EQUIPPED

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho­rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The
system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation
is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked
or unlocked.

The system uses ignition keys, which have an embedded
electronic chip (transponder), to prevent unauthorized
vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys that are pro­grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate

2

16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two (2)
seconds if someone uses an invalid key to start the
engine.

NOTE: A key that has not been programmed is consid­ered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the ignition lock
cylinder for that vehicle.

During normal operation, after turning on the ignition
switch, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will
turn on for three (3) seconds for a bulb check. If the light
remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is
a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light
begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that
someone used an invalid key to start the engine. Either of
these conditions will result in the engine being shut off
after two (2) seconds.

If the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light turns on
during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for

longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in
the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle ser­viced as soon as possible.

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 cannot
be programmed to any other vehicle.

At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four digit PIN. 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 and
needs to be cut.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

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

Customer Key Programming

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

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 Vehicle Theft Alarm Indicator 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 and the Vehicle Theft
Alarm Indicator Light will stop flashing, turn on again
for 3 seconds, and then turn off.

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

2

18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

General Information

The Sentry Key system complies with FCC rules part 15
and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is
subject to the following conditions:

•

This device may not cause harmful interference.

•

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

SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

This system monitors the vehicle doors and ignition for
unauthorized operation. When the alarm is activated, the
system provides both audible and visual signals. The
horn will sound repeatedly for 3 minutes and the head­lights and security light in the instrument cluster will
flash for an additional 15 minutes. The engine will not
run until the system is disarmed.

To Set the Alarm:

The alarm will set when you use the power door locks or
use the Keyless Entry transmitter to lock the doors. After
all the doors are locked and closed, the security light in
the instrument cluster will flash rapidly to signal that the
system is arming. The security light in the instrument
panel cluster will flash rapidly for about 15 seconds to
indicate that the alarm is being set. After the alarm is set,
the security light will flash at a slower rate to indicate
that the system is armed.

NOTE: If the security light stays on continuously during
vehicle operation, have the system checked by your
dealer.

To Disarm the System:

Use the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter to unlock the
doors. If something has triggered the system in your
absence, the horn will sound three times when you
unlock the doors. Check the vehicle for tampering.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19

The security system will also disarm, if the vehicle is
started with a programmed Sentry Key. If an unpro­grammed Sentry Key is used to start a vehicle, the engine
will start and run for 2 seconds and then shut down.
After six unsuccessful attempts at starting the engine, the
system will shut down until the correct key is used. To
exit alarming mode, press the transmitter Unlock button
or start the vehicle with a programmed Sentry Key.

The security alarm system is designed to protect your
vehicle; however, you can create conditions where the
system will arm unexpectedly. If you remain in the
vehicle and lock the doors with the transmitter, the alarm
will sound when you pull the door handle to exit.

NOTE: You may accidentally activate the security sys­tem (horn sounds and lights flash) by entering the vehicle
without using the key fob to unlock the door(s). The
security system can be disarmed with the key fob’s

UNLOCK button or by inserting a programmed Sentry
Key into the ignition and turning the key to the ON
position.

2

ILLUMINATED ENTRY

Vehicles Equipped With Power Door Locks

All interior lights will illuminate in the vehicle when the
doors are unlocked using the key fob.

The interior lights will remain on for 30 seconds after the
last door is closed, or until all doors are closed and either
the ignition is turned to the ON position or a key fob
LOCK button is pressed.

There is also a battery saver feature that will turn the
interior lights off after 8 minutes if the ignition is OFF
and a door is left open or the dimmer control is in the
interior lights ON position.

20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter

This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors or
activate the panic alarm from distances a minimum of 66
feet (20 meters) using a hand held radio transmitter. The
transmitter need not be pointed at the vehicle to activate
the system.

NOTE: The line of transmission must not be blocked
with metal objects.

To unlock the doors:

Press and release the UNLOCK button on the transmitter
once to unlock only the driver’s door or twice to unlock
all the doors. When the UNLOCK button is pressed, the
illuminated entry will initiate, and the parking lights will
flash on twice.

The system can be programmed to unlock all the doors
upon the first UNLOCK button press by using the
following procedure:

1. Press and hold the LOCK button on a programmed
key fob.

2. Continue to hold the LOCK button at least 4 seconds,
but not longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the
UNLOCK button. A single chime will sound to indicate
that this feature has changed.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21

3. Release both buttons at the same time.

4. Test the feature while outside of the vehicle, by
pressing the LOCK/UNLOCK button on the transmitter.

NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the transmitter
while you are inside the vehicle will activate the Security
Alarm. Opening a door with the Security Alarm activated
will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button
to deactivate the Security Alarm.

5. If the desired programming was not achieved or to
reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.

To lock the doors:

Press and release the LOCK button on the key fob to lock
all doors. If the ignition is OFF, when the doors are
locked, the parking lights will flash on once and the horn
will chirp once.

Horn Chirp Programming

The horn chirp feature will be shipped from the assembly
plants activated. If desired this feature can be disabled by
using the following procedure:

1. Press and hold the LOCK button on the transmitter.

2. After holding the LOCK button for four seconds, also
press the PANIC button within 6 seconds. A single chime
will sound to indicate that this feature has changed.

3. Release both buttons at the same time.

4. To reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.

5. Test the horn chirp feature while outside of the ve­hicle, by pressing the LOCK button on the transmitter
with the ignition in the OFF position and the key
removed.

2

22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the transmitter,
while you are inside the vehicle, will activate the Security
Alarm. Opening a door with the Security Alarm activated
will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button
to deactivate the Security Alarm.

6. If the desired programming was not achieved or to
reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.

Flash Lamps with Lock Programming

1. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on the transmit­ter.

2. After holding the UNLOCK button for four seconds,
also press the LOCK button within 6 seconds. A single
chime will sound to indicate that this feature has
changed.

3. Release both buttons at the same time.

4. Test the flash lamps with LOCK feature while outside
of the vehicle, by pressing the LOCK button on the
transmitter with the ignition in the OFF position, and the
key removed.

NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the transmitter,
while you are in the vehicle, will activate the Security
Alarm. Opening a door with the Security Alarm activated
will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button
to deactivate the Security Alarm.

5. If the desired programming was not achieved or to
reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.

Using the Panic Alarm

To activate the Panic mode while the ignition is OFF press
and release the PANIC button on the transmitter once.
When the Panic mode is activated, the interior lights will
illuminate, the headlamps and parking lights will flash,
and the horn will sound.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23

To cancel the Panic mode press and release the PANIC
button on the transmitter a second time. Panic mode will
automatically cancel after 3 minutes or if the vehicle is
started or exceeds 15 mph (24 km/h). During the Panic
Mode, the door locks and remote keyless entry systems
will function normally. Panic mode will not disarm the
security system on vehicles so equipped.

General Information

This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules and with
RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the
following conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference.

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

NOTE: Changes or modifications not expressly ap­proved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

If your Remote Lock Control fails to operate from a
normal distance, check for these two conditions.

1. Weak batteries in transmitter. The expected life of
batteries is five years.

2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station
tower, airport transmitter, military base, and some mobile
or CB radios.

Programming Additional Transmitters

Vehicles will be shipped from the assembly plants with
two transmitters programmed only for that vehicle. A
total of eight transmitters can be programmed for your
vehicle. Additional transmitters can be programmed to
your vehicle through the use of a currently programmed
fob.

2

24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: When entering program mode using that fob, all
other programmed transmitters will be erased and you
will have to reprogram them for your vehicle.

Use the following procedure to program additional key
fobs if the vehicle is not equipped with Sentry Key:

1. Enter your vehicle and close all doors.

2. Fasten your seat belt (Fastening the seatbelt will cancel
any chiming that may confuse you during this program­ming procedure).

3. Place the key into the ignition.

4. Turn the ignition to the ON position ( Do not start the
engine ).

5. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on the key fob.

6. After holding the UNLOCK button for four seconds,
also press the PANIC button within 6 seconds.

7. When a single chime is heard release both buttons. The
chime is an indication that you have successfully entered
program mode. All transmitters that are to be pro­grammed must be done so within 60 seconds of when the
chime was heard.

8. Using the fob to be programmed, press and hold both
the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons, simultaneously for 2
seconds and then release.

9. Press and release the UNLOCK button a single chime
will be heard.

10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 to program up to six additional
transmitters.

11. Turn the ignition to the OFF position.

12. Your vehicle will remain in program mode up to 60
seconds from when the original chime was heard. After
60 seconds, all programmed transmitters function nor­mally.

NOTE: If you do not have a programmed transmitter,
contact your dealer for details.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25

Battery Replacement

The recommended replacement battery (2 required) is
CR2032.

1. If the key fob is equipped with a screw, remove the
screw. With the transmitter buttons facing down, use a
flat blade to pry the two halves of the transmitter apart.
Make sure not to damage the elastomer seal during
removal.

2

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

3. To assemble the transmitter case, snap the two halves
together.

NOTE: If the key fob is equipped with a screw, reinstall
and tighten the screw until snug.

26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

Your vehicle may be equipped with a remote starting
system, which will allow the vehicle to be started from
distances up to approximately 300 feet away from the
vehicle using the remote keyless entry key fob which is
part of your ignition key.

In order to remote start your vehicle, the hood, and all the
doors must be closed.

To remote start your vehicle, press the REMOTE START
button on the key fob twice within three seconds. To
indicate that the vehicle is about to start, the parking
lights will flash and the horn will sound briefly.

Remote Start Transmitter

Once the vehicle has started, the engine will run for 15
minutes. To cancel remote start, press the REMOTE
START button once.

To enter the vehicle while the engine is running during a
remote start, you must first unlock the vehicle using the
UNLOCK button on the key fob. After the vehicle is

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27

unlocked, you have 60 seconds to enter the vehicle, insert
the key in the Ignition and move it to the RUN position,
otherwise the engine will cancel remote start and auto­matically turn off.

Remote start will also cancel if any of the following occur:

•

If the engine stalls or RPM exceeds 2500

•

Any engine warning lamps come on

•

The hood is opened

•

The hazard switch is pressed

•

The transmission is moved out of park

•

The brake pedal is pressed.

The vehicle can be started remotely up to a maximum of
two times. The vehicle is also allowed a maximum of one
failed start, where the remote start sequence was initiated
but cancelled before the engine begins to crank. After

either of these conditions, or if the Vehicle Theft Alarm is
alarming, or if the PANIC button was pressed, the vehicle
must be reset by inserting a valid key into the ignition
and moving it to the RUN position, then back to LOCK.

The parking lamps will remain illuminated to indicate
that the vehicle has remote started and the engine is
running. The lamps will turn off when the ignition is
turned to RUN or the remote start is cancelled.

DOOR LOCKS

Manual Door Locks

All the doors can be “manually” locked from the inside
by pushing down the door lock plunger, located on the
door trim panel. Both front doors may be opened from
the inside with the door lock plunger in the down or
locked position.

2

28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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.

WARNING!

Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving
children in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be
seriously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the keys in
the ignition. A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.

Power Door Locks

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

Power Door Lock Switch

If you press the power door lock switch while the key is
in the ignition, and any front door is open, the power

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29

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 switch and
a door is open, as a reminder to remove the key.

•

The driver’s door is open while the key is in the
ignition.

Automatic Door Locks

If this feature is enabled, your door locks will lock
automatically when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 15 mph
(24 km/h).

This feature is enabled when your vehicle is shipped
from the assembly plant and can be disabled by using the
following procedure:

1. Enter your vehicle and close all doors.

2. Fasten your seat belt (fastening the seat belt will cancel
any chiming that may confuse you during this program­ming procedure).

3. Place the key into the ignition.

4. Within 10 seconds, cycle the key from the OFF position
to the ON position a minimum of four times; ending in
the ON position (do not start the engine)

5. Within 30 seconds, press the driver’s door lock switch
in the LOCK direction.

6. A single chime will be heard to indicate the feature has
been disabled.

7. To re-activate this feature, repeat the above steps.

8. If a chime is not heard, program mode was canceled
before the feature could be disabled. If necessary, repeat
the above procedure.

2

30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Auto Unlock Feature
This feature unlocks all the doors of the vehicle when any
door is opened. The following must be met:

•

The doors of the vehicle must be locked automatically
by the Automatic Door Lock feature.

•

The vehicle is in P (Park) and the ignition switch is in
any key position.

This feature will not operate if any manual operation of a
door lock switch has occurred

NOTE: This customer programmable feature is enabled
when your vehicle is shipped from the assembly plant.

Auto Unlock Feature Programming

Customer Programming sequence to disable or enable:

1. Enter your vehicle and close all doors.

2. Fasten your seat belt (fastening the seat belt will cancel
any chiming that may be confusing during this program­ming procedure).

3. Insert the key into the ignition.

4. Within 15 seconds, cycle the key from the OFF position
to the ON position a minimum of four times; ending in
the ON position (do not start the engine)

5. Within 30 seconds, press the driver’s door lock switch
in the UNLOCK direction.

6. A single chime will sound to indicate the feature has
been changed.

7. To reactivate the feature, repeat the above steps.

8. If a chime is not heard, program mode was canceled
before the feature could be changed. If necessary repeat
the above procedure.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31

Child Protection Door Lock

To provide a safer environment for children riding in the
rear seat, the rear doors of your vehicle have the child­protection door lock system.

Child Lock Lever

To use the system, open each rear door, slide the lever UP
to engage the locks and DOWN to disengage the child­protection locks. When the system on a door is engaged,
that door can only be opened by using the outside door
handle even if the inside door lock is in the unlocked
position.

WARNING!

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

NOTE: After setting the child protection door lock

system, always test the door from the inside to make
certain it is in the desired position.

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32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: For emergency exit with the system engaged,
move the door lock switch to the UNLOCK position, roll
down the window and open the door with the outside
door handle.

WINDOWS

Power Windows

Power Window Switch

The control on the left front door has up-down switches
that give you finger tip control of all four power win­dows. There is a single opening and closing switch on the
passenger doors for passenger window control. The
windows will operate when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON or ACC (Accessory) position and for ten
minutes after the ignition is turned off or the driver’s
door is opened.

WARNING!

Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving
children in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be
seriously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the keys in
the ignition. A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.

Auto Down (Driver’s Side Only)

The driver’s window switch has an Auto Down feature.
Push the window switch past the first detent, release, and
the window will go down automatically. To cancel the
Auto Down movement, operate the switch in either the
up or down direction and release the switch.

Window Lockout Switch

The window lockout switch on the driver’s door allows
you to disable the window control on the other doors. To
disable the window controls on the other doors, press the
window lock button. To enable the window controls,
press the window control button again.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33

2

Power Window Lock Out Switch

WIND BUFFETING

Wind buffeting can be described as the perception of
pressure on the ears or a helicopter type sound in the
ears. Your vehicle may exhibit wind buffeting with the
windows down or partially open. This is a normal
occurrence and can be minimized. If the buffeting occurs

34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

with the rear windows open, open the front and rear
windows together 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, knee
bolsters, front airbags for both the driver and front
passenger, 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.

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 that
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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35

of ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the
inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should
be belted at all times.

Lap/Shoulder Belts

All seating positions except the front center seating
position (with full bench seat) have combination 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.

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.

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36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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 together can crash into one
another in an accident, hurting one another badly.
Never use a lap/shoulder belt or a lap belt for
more than one person, no matter what their size.

Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions

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

2. The seat belt latch plate is above the back of the front
seat, next to your arm in the rear seat. Grasp the latch

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37

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.

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

WARNING!

•

A belt 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.
Your body could strike the inside surfaces of the vehicle in
a collision, increasing head and neck injury. And 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 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.

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38 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.

• A twisted 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 39

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

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40 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 the desired position.

The adjuster has an easy up (EZ Up) feature, which will
allow it to be moved up without engaging the button.

Automatic Locking Mode – If Equipped

To convert from the normal emergency locking mode to
the automatic locking mode, grasp the shoulder belt
portion and pull all of the webbing out of the retractor.
Allow some of the webbing to retract into the retractor, as
the belt retracts you will hear a clicking sound to indicate
the seat belt is now in the automatic locking mode. Once
the automatic locking mode has been activated, you will
not be able pull the webbing back out of the retractor. To
disengage the automatic locking mode, simply allow the
seat belt to retract fully into the retractor to return the seat
belt to the normal emergency locking mode.

Center Lap Belts

The center seat position on the front seat bench has a lap
belt only. To fasten the lap belt, slide the latch plate into
the buckle until you hear a “click.” To lengthen the lap
belt, tilt the latch plate and pull. To remove slack, pull the

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41

loose end of the webbing. Wear the lap belt snug against
the hips. Sit back and erect in the seat, then adjust the belt
as tightly as is comfortable.

Seat Belt Pretensioners

The seat belts for front outboard seating positions are
equipped with pretensioning devices that are designed to
remove any slack from the seat belt system 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 work for all
size occupants, including those in child restraints.

NOTE: These devices are not a substitute for proper seat
belt placement by the occupant. The seat belt still must be
worn snugly and positioned properly.

The pretensioners are triggered by the Occupant Re­straint Controller (ORC). Like the 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

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42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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).

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. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43

Seat Belts and Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use 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 against the hips as possible.
Keep the belt low so that it does not come across the
abdomen. That way the strong bones of the hips will take
the force if there is a collision.

Seat Belt Extender

If a seat belt is too short, even when fully extended, 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 store it.

WARNING!

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

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44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) – Airbags

This vehicle has airbags for both the driver and right
front passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint
systems. The driver’s front airbag is mounted in the
steering wheel. The passenger front airbag is mounted in

the instrument panel, above the glove compartment. The
words SRS/AIRBAG are embossed on the airbag covers.

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

The front airbags have a multistage inflator design. This
may allow the airbag to have different rates of inflation
that are based on collision severity and occupant size.

This vehicle may also be equipped with window bags to
protect the driver, front, and rear passengers sitting next
to a window. If the vehicle is equipped with window
bags, 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 front airbag

covers or attempt to manually open them. You may
damage the airbags and you could be injured be­cause the airbags are no longer functional. These
protective covers for the airbag cushions are de­signed to open only when the airbags are inflating.

• If your vehicle is equipped with window bags, do

not stack luggage or other cargo up high enough to
block the location of the window bag. The area
where the window bag is located should remain free
from any obstructions.

• If your vehicle is equipped with window bags, do

not have any accessory items installed which will
alter the roof, including adding a sunroof to your
vehicle. Do not add roof racks that require perma­nent attachments (bolts or screws) for installation on
the vehicle roof. Do not drill into the roof of the
vehicle for any reason.

NOTE: Do not use a clothing bar mounted to the coat

hooks in this vehicle. A clothing bar will impede the
proper performance of the window bags.

Along with the seat belts, front airbags work with the
instrument panel knee bolsters to provide improved
protection for the driver and front passenger. Window
bags 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 in moderate to
severe frontal collisions.

If your vehicle is so equipped, the window bag on the
crash side of the vehicle is triggered in moderate to
severe side collisions. But even in collisions where the
airbags work, you need the seat belts to keep you in the
right position for the airbags to protect you properly.

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46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

1. Children 12 years and under should always ride
buckled up in a rear seat in an appropriate child restraint.

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

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. See ⬙Child Restraint⬙ in this section.

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

2. All occupants should use their lap and shoulder belts
properly.

3. The driver and front passenger seats should be moved
back as far as practical to allow the airbag room to inflate.

4. If your vehicle has window airbags, do not lean
against the door or window, airbags will inflate forcefully
into the space between you and the door.

5. If the airbag system in this vehicle needs to be
modified to accommodate a disabled person, contact the
Customer Center. Phone numbers are provided in the ⬙If
You Need Customer Assistance⬙ section later in this
owner’s manual.

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 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 window bags, they also need
room to inflate. Do not lean against the door or
window. Sit upright in the center of the seat.

Air Bag System Components

The airbag system consists of the following:

•

Occupant Restraint Controller

•

Side Remote Acceleration Sensors – If Equipped

•

Airbag Warning Light

•

Driver Airbag

•

Passenger Airbag

•

Window Bags above Side Windows – If Equipped

•

Steering Wheel and Column

•

Instrument Panel

•

Interconnecting Wiring

•

Knee Impact Bolsters

•

Front Acceleration Sensors

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48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

Driver and Front Passenger Seat Belt Pretensioners

•

Passenger Airbag Disable (PAD) Indicator Light (Ex­tended Cab Vehicles Only)

•

Passenger Side frontal Airbag ON/OFF Switch (Ex­tended Cab Vehicles Only).

How the Airbag System Works

The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) determines

•

if a frontal collision is severe enough to require the
airbags to inflate. The front airbag inflators are de­signed to provide different rates of airbag inflation
from direction provided by the ORC. The ORC may
also modify the rate of inflation based on the occupant
size provided by the Occupant Classification Module.
The ORC will not detect roll over.

The ORC also monitors the readiness of the electronic
parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in
the START or RUN positions. These include all of the

items listed above except the steering wheel and
column, and knee bolsters. If the key is in the OFF
position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition,
the airbags are not on and will not inflate.

During a moderate-to-severe rear impact the ORC may
deploy the seat belt pretensioners alone.

Also, the ORC turns on the AIRBAG warning
light and PAD indicator light in the instrument
panel for 6 to 8 seconds for a self-check when

the ignition is first turned on. After the self­check, the AIRBAG warning light will turn off. If the
ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it
turns on the AIRBAG warning light either momentarily
or continuously. A single chime will sound if the light
comes on again after initial start up.

WARNING!

Ignoring the AIRBAG warning light in your 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.

NOTE: Children 12 years and under should always ride

buckled up in a rear seat in an appropriate child restraint.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49

2

The Passenger Airbag Disable (PAD) Indicator Light
(an amber light located in the center of the instrument
panel) tells the driver and front passenger when the front
passenger airbag is turned off.

If the passenger frontal air bag is turned off by using the
manual on/off switch (on vehicles so equipped), the PAD
Indicator lamp iluminates the passenger frontal airbag

50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

symbol and the word ⬙OFF⬙ to show that the passenger
airbag will not inflate during a collision requiring air­bags.

•

The Driver and Passenger Airbag/Inflator Units are
located in the center of the steering wheel and the right
side of the instrument panel. When the ORC detects a
collision requiring the airbags, it signals the inflator
units. A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to
inflate the front airbags. Different airbag inflation rates
may be possible based on collision severity and occu­pant size. The steering wheel hub trim cover and the
upper right side of the instrument panel separate and
fold out of the way as the bags inflate to their full size.
The bags fully inflate in about 50 - 70 milliseconds.
This is about half of the time it takes to blink your eyes.
The bags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain
the driver and front passenger. The driver’s front
airbag gas is vented through vent holes in the sides of
the airbag. The passenger’s front airbag gas is vented

through vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this
way the airbags do not interfere with your control of
the vehicle.

•

The Passenger Airbag Disabled (PAD) Indicator
Light indicates to the driver and passenger when the

airbag is turned OFF. In the presence of a properly
seated occupant, when the PAD indicator light is
illuminated, the airbag is OFF.

•

The Side Impact SRS Window Bags are designed to
activate only in certain side collisions. When the ORC
(with side impact option) detects a collision requiring
the window bags to inflate, it signals the inflators on
the crash side of the vehicle. Aquantity of nontoxic gas
is generated to inflate the window bag. The inflating
window bag pushes the outside edge of the headliner
out of the way and covers the window. The airbag
forcefully inflates in about one quarter of the time it
takes to blink your eye. Make sure you are seated and

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51

belted properly and do not position items in the area
where the window bag inflates. This especially applies
to children. The window bag is only about 3-1/2
inches (9 cm) thick when it is inflated.

•

The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees of
the driver and the front passenger, and position every­one for the best interaction with the front airbag.

•

Do not modify the front passenger seat assembly or
components in any way.

•

Do not modify the front seat center console or center
position seat in any way.

•

At no time should any supplemental restraint system
(SRS) component or SRS related component or fas­tener be modified or replaced with any part except
those which are approved by DaimlerChrysler/
Mopar威.

WARNING!

Unapproved modifications or service procedures to
the front passenger seat assembly, its related compo­nents, or seat cover may inadvertently change the
airbag deployment in case of a frontal crash. This
could result in death or serious injury to the front
seat passenger if the vehicle is involved in an acci­dent. A modified vehicle may not comply with
required Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
(FMVSS).

If A Deployment Occurs

The airbag system is designed to deploy the airbags
when the impact sensors detect a moderate-to-severe
frontal collision, to help restrain the driver and front
passenger, and then immediately deflate.

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52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: A frontal 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 airbags, any
or all of the following may occur:

•

The nylon 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 by­product 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.

•

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53

WARNING!

Deployed airbags and seat belt pretensioners cannot
protect you in another collision. Have the airbags,
and both front seat belt retractor assemblies (w/
pretensioners), replaced by an authorized dealer as
soon as possible.

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 if the airbag system is not
there to protect you. Do not modify the components or wiring,
including adding any kind of badges or stickers to the steering
wheel hub trim cover or the upper right side of the instrument
panel. Do not modify the front bumper, vehicle body structure, or
add aftermarket side steps or running boards.

• Do not attempt to modify any part of your advanced airbag system.

The airbag may inflate accidentally or may not function properly if
modifications are made. Take your vehicle to an authorized dealer
for any advanced airbag system service. If your seat including your
trim cover and cushion needs to be serviced in any way (including
removal or loosening/tightening of seat attachment bolts), take the
vehicle to your authorized dealer. Only manufacturer approved seat
accessories may be used. If it is necessary to modify an advanced
airbag system for persons with disabilities, contact your authorized
dealer.

• You need proper knee impact protection in a collision. Do not

mount or locate any aftermarket equipment on or behind the knee
bolsters.

• 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 an
airbag system.

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54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Enhanced Accident Response System

If the airbags 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 light until the ignition
switch is turned off.

Airbag Light

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

an authorized dealer service the system promptly:

•

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.

NOTE: If the speedometer, tachometer or any engine
related gauges are not working, the airbag control mod­ule may also be disabled. The airbags may not be ready
to inflate for your protection. Promptly check the fuse
block for blown fuses. Refer to the label located on the
inside of the fuse block cover for the proper airbag fuses.
See your dealer if the fuse is good.

Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch – If Equipped

The passenger front airbag is to be turned off only if the
passenger:

•

is an infant (less than 1 year old) who must ride in the
front seat because there is no rear seat, because the rear
seat is too small for a rear-facing infant restraint or
because the infant has a medical condition which
makes it necessary for the driver to be able to see the
infant,

•

is a child, age 1 to 12 who must ride in the front seat
because there is no rear seat, because there is no rear
seat position available, or because the child has a
medical condition which makes it necessary for the
driver to be able to see the child,

•

has a medical condition which makes passenger airbag
inflation (deployment) a greater risk for the passenger
than the risk of hitting the dashboard (instrument
panel) or windshield in a crash.

WARNING!

Whenever an airbag is turned off, even a lap/
shoulder belted passenger may hit their head, neck,
or chest on the dashboard (instrument panel) or
windshield in a crash. This may result in serious
injury or death.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55

2

NOTE: The Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch is not
available in the Quad Cab.

To Shut Off the Passenger Frontal Airbag

Place the ignition key in the Passenger Airbag On/Off
Switch, push the key in and turn clockwise, and remove

56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

the key from the switch. This will shut off the passenger
frontal airbag. The passenger frontal airbag symbol and
the word “OFF” on the passenger airbag disable (PAD)
lamp will illuminate when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position.

To Turn On the Passenger Frontal Airbag

Place the ignition key in the Passenger Airbag On/Off
Switch, push the key in and turn counterclockwise, and
remove the key from the switch. This will turn On the
passenger frontal airbag. The passenger airbag disable
(PAD) lamp will now be Off when the ignition switch is
turned to the ON position.

Event Data Recorder (EDR)

In the event of an airbag deployment, your vehicle is
designed to record up to 2-seconds of specific vehicle
data parameters (see list below) in an event data recorder
prior to the moment of airbag deployment. Please note
that such data are ONLY recorded if an airbag deploys,

and are otherwise unavailable. In conjunction with other
data gathered during a complete accident investigation,
the electronic data may be used by DaimlerChrysler
Corporation and others to learn more about the possible
causes of crashes and associated injuries in order to
assess and improve vehicle performance. In addition to
crash investigations initiated by DaimlerChrysler Corpo­ration, such investigations may be requested by custom­ers, insurance carriers, government officials, and profes­sional crash researchers, such as those associated with
universities, and with hospital and insurance organiza­tions.

In the event that an investigation is undertaken by
DaimlerChrysler Corporation (regardless of initiative),
the company or its designated representative will first
obtain permission of the appropriate custodial entity for
the vehicle (usually the vehicle owner or lessee) before
accessing the electronic data stored, unless ordered to
download data by a court with legal jurisdiction (i.e.,

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57

pursuant to a warrant). A copy of the data will be
provided to the custodial entity upon request. General
data that does not identify particular vehicles or crashes
may be released for incorporation in aggregate crash
databases, such as those maintained by the US govern­ment and various states. Data of a potentially sensitive
nature, such as would identify a particular driver, ve­hicle, or crash, will be treated confidentially. Confidential
data will not be disclosed by DaimlerChrysler Corpora­tion to any third party except when:

Used for research purposes, such as to match data with a

1.
particular crash record in an aggregate database, provided
confidentiality of personal data is thereafter preserved

2. Used in defense of litigation involving a
DaimlerChrysler Corporation product

3. Requested by police under a legal warrant

4. Otherwise required by law

Data Parameters that May Be Recorded:

•

Diagnostic trouble code(s) and warning lamp status
for electronically-controlled safety systems, including
the airbag system

•

Airbag disable lamp status – If Equipped

•

⬙Time⬙ of airbag deployment (in terms of ignition
cycles and vehicle mileage)

•

Airbag deployment level – If Equipped

•

Seatbelt status

•

Brake status (service and parking brakes)

•

Accelerator status (including vehicle speed)

•

Engine control status (including engine speed)

•

Cruise control status

•

Traction/stability control status

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58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Child Restraint

Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up all the
time - 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
rear seat, if available. According to crash statistics, chil­dren are safer when properly restrained in the rear seats
rather than in the front.

There are different sizes and types of restraints for
children from newborn size to the child almost large
enough for an adult seat 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:

Infants and Small Children

Safety experts recommend that children ride

•

rearward-facing in the vehicle until they are at least
one year old and weigh at least 20 lbs (9 kg). Two types
of child restraints can be used rearward facing: infant
carriers and ⬙convertible⬙ child seats.

•

The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the
vehicle. It is recommended for children who weigh up
to about 20 lbs (9 kg). ⬙Convertible⬙ 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 20 lbs (9 kg) but are
less than one year old. Both types of child restraints are
held in the vehicle by the seatbelt or the LATCH child
restraint anchorage system. (See the LATCH - Child
Seat Anchorage System section.)

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59

•

Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in
the front seat of a vehicle with a front passenger airbag
that does not have a switch to turn the airbag Off. An
airbag deployment could cause severe injury or death
to infants in this position.

Older Children and Child Restraints

•

Children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) 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 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg), and are
older than one year old. These child seats are also held
in the vehicle by the seatbelt or the LATCH child
restraint anchorage system. (See the LATCH - Child
Seat Anchorage System section.)

•

The belt-positioning booster seat is for children weigh­ing more than 40 lbs (18 kg), but who are still too small
to fit the vehicle’s seat belts properly. If the child

cannot sit with knees bent over the seat cushion while
the child’s back is against the seatback, they need a
belt-positioning booster seat. The child and booster
seat are held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt.

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 seat back 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.

2

60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

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.

For additional information, refer to www.seatcheck.org.

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 infant restraint should only be
used in a rear seat of a vehicle that does not have
an airbag off switch. A rearward facing infant
restraint in the front seat may be struck by a
deploying passenger airbag which may cause se­vere or fatal to the infant.

Here are some tips for 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. The manufacturer recommends that you
try a child restraint in the vehicle seats 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 Club Cab first and Club/Quad Cab second row
outside seating positions have cinching latch plates.
These are designed to keep the lap portion tight
around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61

use a locking clip. If the seat belt has a cinching latch
plate, 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.

•

Buckle the child into the restraint exactly as the
manufacturer’s instructions tell you.

•

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

LATCH - Child Seat Anchorage System (Lower
Anchors and Tether for CHildren)

Each vehicle is equipped with the child restraint anchor­age system called LATCH, which stands for Lower
Anchors and Tethers for CHildren. The LATCH system

provides for the installation of the child restraint without
using the vehicle’s seat belts, instead securing the child
restraint using lower anchorages and upper tether straps
from the child restraint to the vehicle structure. LATCH­compatible child restraint systems are now available.
However, because the lower anchorages are to be intro­duced over a period of years, child restraint systems
having attachments for those anchorages will continue to
also have features for installation using the vehicle’s seat
belts. Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for
connection to the top tether anchorages have been avail­able for some time. For some older child restraints, many
child restraint manufacturers offer add-on tether strap
kits or retro-fit kits. You are urged to take advantage of all
the available attachments provided with your child re­straint in any vehicle.

2

62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Club Cab

•

The Club Cab front and rear right (if equipped with a
rear seat) passenger seating positions have lower
anchorages for LATCH equipped child restraints.

Quad Cab

•

The Quad Cab second row seat has lower anchorages
that are capable of accommodating LATCH­compatible child seats having flexible, webbing­mounted lower attachments at all three seating posi­tions. Child seats with fixed lower attachments must
be installed in the outboard positions only. Regardless
of the specific type of lower attachment, NEVER install
LATCH compatible child seats such that two seats
share a common lower anchorage. If you are installing
LATCH-compatible child restraints in adjacent rear
seating positions, you can use the LATCH anchors or

the vehicle’s seat belt for the outboard position, but
you must use the vehicle’s seat belt at the center
position.

If your child restraints are not LATCH compatible, you
can only install the child restraints using the vehicle’s
seat belts. Please refer to the next section for typical
installation instructions.

Installing the LATCH-Compatible Child Restraint
System

We urge that you carefully follow the directions of the
manufacturer when installing your child restraint. Not all
child restraint systems will be installed as described here.
Again, carefully follow the installation instructions that
were provided with the child restraint system. The rear

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63

seat lower anchorages are round bars, located at the rear
of the seat cushion where it meets the seat back, and are
just visible when you lean into the vehicle to install the
child restraint. You will easily feel them if you run your
finger along the intersection of the seatback and seat
cushion surfaces. In addition, there are tether strap
anchorages each LATCH seating position (see section on
Child Restraint Tether Anchor). Many, but not all re­straint systems will be equipped with separate straps on
each side, with each having a hook or connector for
attachment to the lower anchorage and a means of
adjusting the tension in the strap. Forward-facing toddler
restraints and some rear-facing infant restraints will also
be equipped with a tether strap, a hook for attachment to
the tether strap anchorage and a means of adjusting the
tension of the strap. You will first loosen the adjusters on
the lower straps and on the tether strap so that you can
more easily attach the hooks or connectors to the vehicle
anchorages. Next attach the lower hooks or connectors

2

64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

over the top of the anchorage bars, pushing aside the seat
cover material. Then attach the tether strap to the anchor­age located on the back of the seat, being careful to route
the tether strap to provide the most direct path between
the anchor and the child restraint. If your vehicle is
equipped with adjustable rear head restraints, raise the
head restraint and, route the tether strap under the head
restraint and between the two posts. Finally, tighten all
three straps as you push the child restraint rearward and
downward into the seat, removing slack in the straps
according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instruc­tions.

NOTE: When using the LATCH attaching system to
install a child restraint, please ensure that all seat belts
not being used for occupant restraints are stowed and out
of reach of children. It is recommended that before
installing the child restraint, buckle the seat belt so the
seat belt is tucked behind the child restraint and out of
reach. If the buckled seat belt interferes with the child

restraint installation, instead of tucking the seat belt
behind the child restraint, route the seat belt through the
child restraint belt path and then buckle it. This should
stow the seat belt out of the reach of an inquisitive child.
Remind all children in the vehicle that the seat belts are
not toys and should not be played with, and never leave
your child unattended in the vehicle.

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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65

Installing Child Restraints Using the Vehicle Seat
Belt

The passenger seat belts are equipped with either cinch­ing latch plates or automatic locking retractors, which are
designed to keep the lap portion tight around the child
restraint so that it should not be necessary to use a
locking clip. If the seat belt has a cinching latch plate,
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. If the seat belt has an automatic
locking retractor, it will have a distinctive label. Pull the
belt from the retractor until there is enough to allow you
to pass through the child restraint and slide the latch
plate into the buckle. Then, pull the belt until it is all
extracted from the retractor. Allow the belt to return to
the retractor, pulling on the excess webbing to tighten the
lap portion about the child restraint. For automatic

locking retractor seat belts, refer to ⬙Automatic Locking
Mode⬙ earlier in this section. If you have trouble tighten­ing the lap/shoulder belt on the child restraint because
the buckle or latch plate is too close to the belt path
opening on the restraint, follow these steps. If the buckle
is webbing mounted, disconnect the latch plate from the
buckle and twist the short buckle-end belt to shorten it.
Insert the latch plate into the buckle with the release
button facing out. If the belt still can’t be tightened, the
buckle is not webbing mounted, or if by pulling and
pushing on the restraint loosens the belt, you may need
to do something more. Disconnect the latch plate from
the buckle, turn the latch plate around, and insert the
latch plate into the buckle again. If you still can’t make
the child restraint secure, try a different seating position
or use the locking clip provided with your child restraint.
See the section ⬙Child Restraint Tether Anchor⬙ to com­plete the child seat installation.

2

66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Child Restraint Tether Anchor

The Club Cab model has two routing straps
located behind each of the rear outboard seat­ing positions. The tether anchor itself is located

in the center of vehicle, in between the two
seating positions. The front outboard passenger seating
position is also equipped with a child tether anchorage,
located at the base of the front seat back. When there is a
rear seat delete option, the tether anchorage located on
the cab back panel is designed to be used for the front
seat center seating position. The Quad cab model has
three anchorages located behind each of the rear seating
positions (rear left, rear center, and rear right).

WARNING!

With a child restraint installed in the rear driver or
passenger side locations, use care when adjusting
the front seat(s) rearward, to avoid the front seat
back coming in contact with the belted child directly
behind the seat. The child could be injured.

WARNING!

Improper installation can lead to failure of an infant
or child restraint. It could come loose in a collision.
The child could be seriously injured or killed. Make
sure the child restraint tether strap is always routed
through the proper anchor strap inner loop.

Tether Strap at the Front Passenger Seat (Club Cab)

1. Route the child restraint tether strap up and over the
front passenger seat back and under the head restraint.

2. Connect the tether strap to the lower anchor.

3. Remove the slack in the tether strap so that it is pulled
tight.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67

2

Tether Straps at the Rear Passenger Seat (Club Cab)

1. Route the child restraint tether strap through the
routing loop, located directly behind the child restraint.
The routing loops are located behind the flip-down door
on the cab back panel (padded bolster).

68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

2. Route the tether strap across to the center tether
anchorage. The center tether is located behind the slide
door in the center of the vehicle, between the two seating
positions.

3. Remove the slack in the tether strap so that the anchor
strap is pulled tight.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 69

Tether Straps at the Rear Passenger Seat (Quad Cab)

1. Route the child restraint tether strap under the head
restraint for the outboard seating positions, and then
through the anchor strap outer loop (webbing material
loop), located directly behind the child restraint.

2. Route the tether strap across to the nearest installed
anchor strap, and attach the tether strap hook to the
anchor strap inner metal ring.

3. Remove the slack in the tether strap so that both
anchor straps are pulled tight.

NOTE: Two Anchors must be used for any of the three
seating positions.

2

70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Multiple Child Restraint Double Cab

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 71

WARNING!

An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead to
seat failure and injury to the child. In a collision, the
seat could come loose and allow the child to crash
into the inside of the vehicle or other passengers, or
even be thrown from the vehicle. Use only the
anchor positions directly behind the child restraint
to secure a child restraint top tether strap. See your
dealer for help if necessary.

Transporting Pets

Airbags deploying in the front seat could harm your pet.
An unrestrained pet will 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.

Avoid wide open throttle acceleration in low gear.

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.

NON-DETERGENT OR STRAIGHT MINERAL OILS
MUST NEVER BE USED.

2

72 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A new engine may consume some oil during its first few
thousand miles of operation. This is a normal part of the
break-in and is not an indication of difficulty.

SAFETY TIPS

Exhaust System

WARNING!

Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an ex­tremely toxic gas that by itself is colorless and
odorless. To avoid inhaling these gases, the follow­ing precautions should be observed:

•

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.

•

It may be necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running for more than a short period. If so,
adjust your climate control system to force outside air
into the vehicle. Set the blower at high speed and the
controls in any position except OFF or RECIRC.

•

The best protection against carbon monoxide entry
into the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine
exhaust system.

Be aware of changes in the sound of the exhaust system;
exhaust fumes detected inside the vehicle; or damage to
the underside or rear of the vehicle. Have a competent
mechanic inspect the complete exhaust system and adja­cent body areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated or
mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose connections
could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger
compartment. In addition, inspect the exhaust system
each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil
change. Replace or adjust as required.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 73

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle

Heater Defroster Ducts

Inspect the heater defroster ducts for proper operation.
Check for proper air flow through all defroster ducts. If
there are any question regarding the operation of your
heater defroster ducts, have the system checked by an
authorized dealer

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.

Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after an accident if
they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing,
etc.) or if the front airbags have deployed. If there is any
question regarding belt or retractor condition, replace the
belt.

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 light is not lit during starting, see you
authorized dealer. If the light stays on, flickers or comes
on while driving, have the system checked by an autho­rized dealer. If there is a problem with the airbag light the
seatbelt light will flash.

Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle

Tires

Examine tires for tread wear or uneven wear patterns.
Check for stones, nails, glass or other objects lodged in
the tread.

Inspect for tread cuts or sidewall cracks. Check wheel
nuts for tightness and tires for proper pressure.

2

74 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Lights

Check the operation of all exterior lights. Check turn
signal and high beam indicator lights on the instrument
panel.

Door Latches

Check for positive closing, latching and locking.

Fluid Leaks

Check area under vehicle after overnight parking for fuel,
water, oil, or other fluid leaks. Also, if fuel fumes are
detected the cause should be located and corrected.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

䡵 Mirrors ...............................79

▫ Manual Seat Adjustment .................82

3

▫ Inside Day/Night Mirror .................79

▫ Automatic Dimming Mirror — If Equipped ....79

▫ Outside Mirrors .......................80

▫ Exterior Mirrors Folding Feature —

If Equipped ..........................80

▫ Electric Remote-Control Mirrors ............81

▫ Heated Mirrors — If Equipped .............82

䡵 Seats .................................82

▫ Front Seats Manual Seat Recliners ...........83

▫ Manual Lumbar Support Adjustment —

If Equipped ..........................84

▫ Adjustable Head Restraints — Front Seating

Positions ............................85

▫ 6 - Way Power Seat Adjuster —

Driver’s Side Only .....................85

▫ Club Cab/Quad Cab Rear Seat .............87

▫ Heated Seats — If Equipped ..............87

76 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

䡵 To Open And Close The Hood ..............88

䡵 Lights ................................90

▫ Interior Lights ........................90

▫ Battery Saver .........................91

▫ Headlamp Delay .......................92

▫ Headlights, Parking Lights, Panel Lights ......92

▫ Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only) ......93

▫ Lights-On Reminder ....................93

▫ Fog Lights — If Equipped ................93

▫ Cargo Light — If Equipped ...............94

▫ Multifunction Control Lever ...............94

䡵 Windshield Wipers And Washers .............96

▫ Windshield Wipers .....................96

▫ Windshield Washers ....................97

䡵 Tilt Steering Column .....................98

䡵 Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped .......99

▫ ToActivate...........................99

▫ To Set At A Desired Speed ...............100

▫ To Deactivate ........................100

▫ To Resume Speed .....................100

▫ To Vary The Speed Setting ...............100

▫ To Accelerate For Passing ...............102

䡵 Overhead Console ......................103

▫ Courtesy/Reading Lights ................103

䡵 Compass/Temperature Mini-Trip Computer ....104

▫ US/M Button ........................104

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 77

▫ Reset Button .........................104

▫ Global Reset .........................105

▫ Step Button .........................105

▫ Average Fuel Economy (AVG ECO) ........106

▫ Distance To Empty (DTE) ...............106

▫ Trip Odometer (ODO) ..................106

▫ Elapsed Time (ET) .....................106

▫ C/T Button .........................107

▫ Compass/Temperature Display ...........107

▫ Automatic Compass Calibration ...........107

▫ Manual Compass Calibration .............108

▫ To Put Into a Calibration Mode ...........108

▫ Outside Temperature ...................109

䡵 Garage Door Opener — If Equipped .........110

▫ Programming HomeLink ................112

▫ Canadian Programming/Gate Programming . . 114

▫ Using HomeLink .....................114

▫ Erasing HomeLink Buttons ..............115

▫ Reprogramming a Single HomeLink Button . . . 115

▫ Security ............................115

䡵 Power Sunroof — If Equipped .............116

▫ Express Open Feature ..................118

▫ Sunroof Maintenance ...................119

䡵 Electrical Power Outlets ..................119

▫ Electrical Outlet Use With Engine Off (Battery Fed

Configuration) .......................120

3

78 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

䡵 Floor Console — If Equipped ..............121

▫ Floor Console Features .................121

䡵 Center Storage Compartment — If Equipped . . . 122

䡵 Cup Holders ..........................123

䡵 Rear Window Features ...................124

▫ Rear Window Defroster – If Equipped .......124

▫ Sliding Rear Window – If Equipped ........125

䡵 Tailgate ..............................125

▫ Tailgate Removal .....................125

▫ Two Position Tailgate / Upper Load Platform . 126

䡵 Slide-In Campers .......................128

▫ Camper Applications ...................128

▫ General Information ...................128

▫ Carbon Monoxide Warning Vehicles Equipped

With A Cap Or Slide-In Campers ..........129

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 79

MIRRORS

Inside Day/Night Mirror

The mirror should be adjusted 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 truck). The mirror should be adjusted
while set in the day position (toward windshield).

Automatic Dimming Mirror — If Equipped

This 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 button will indicate when the
dimming feature is activated.

3

80 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Automatic Dimming Mirror

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.

Outside Mirrors

To receive maximum benefit, adjust the outside mirror(s)
to center on the adjacent lane of traffic with a slight
overlap of the view obtained on the inside mirror.

Exterior Mirrors Folding Feature — If Equipped

Folding exterior mirrors are hinged and may be moved
either forward or rearward to resist damage.

Electric Remote-Control Mirrors

The controls for the power mirrors are located on the
driver’s door trim panel.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 81

3

To adjust a mirror, turn the control wand toward the left
or right mirror positions indicated. Tilt the control wand
in the direction you want the mirror to move. When
finished adjusting the mirror, turn the control to the
center position to prevent accidentally moving a mirror.

82 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF 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 the
right side mirror.

Heated Mirrors — If Equipped

Heated mirrors are automatically activated when you
depress the rear window defroster switch located on the
instrument panel. The light will illuminate to indicate
that the heating elements are ON. Turning Off the rear
window defroster or the ignition will deactivate the
heated mirrors.

SEATS

Manual Seat Adjustment

The adjusting lever is at the front of the seat, near the
floor. Lift the lever 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 83

WARNING!

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. Adjust
any seat only while the vehicle is parked.

Front Seats Manual Seat Recliners

The front seats are equipped with recliners. The reclining
mechanism is operated by a lever located on the right
side of the passenger’s seat and the left side of the
driver’s seat. To recline, lean forward slightly before
lifting 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 is locked.

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84 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 even fatally injured. Use the recliner only
when the vehicle is parked.

Manual Lumbar Support Adjustment — If
Equipped

The manual lumbar support rotary control adjustment is
located on the left side of the driver’s seat. Rotate the
knob to increase or decrease the amount of lumbar
support.

Adjustable Head Restraints — Front Seating
Positions

Head restraints can reduce the risk of whiplash injury in
the event of impact from the rear. Pull up or push down
on the restraints so that the upper edge is as high as
practical, at least to the level of the ears.

To lower the head restraint, depress the release button
located at the base of the head restraint and push down
on the head restraint.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 85

3

6 - Way Power Seat Adjuster — Driver’s Side
Only

The 6-way power seat adjuster switches are on the
outboard side of the driver’s seat. Use this switch to
move the seat up or down, forward or rearward, or tilt.

86 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Power Seat Control Location

Up, Down, Forward, and Rearward

The power seat controls are on the outboard side of the
driver’s seat cushion. Three switches control the seat
movement. The four-way switch in the center can be
moved forward or backwards to get the most comfortable
position. The same switch can be moved up and down to

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 87

control seat height. Change the seat angle by using the
two toggle switches, tilting it up or down.

Tilt Adjustment

Club Cab/Quad Cab Rear Seat

More cargo space is available by lifting up on the rear
seat cushion.

The Quad Cab rear seat is a 60/40 split cushion and full
back. Either cushion can be raised independently.

Heated Seats — If Equipped

The heated seat switches are located at the front of the
floor console.

Press the desired switch once to obtain High heat level,
then press the switch again to obtain Low heat level. A
third button press will turn Off the heated seat. If you do
not purposefully turn the switch Off, the seat heating
level will automatically change to the next lower level, or
Off. The High heat level operates for 30 minutes (ap­proximate), the Low heat level operates for 30 minutes
(approximate). The heated seat will also turn Off when
the ignition is turned Off. Both indicators On identifies
High heat level. The lower indicator On identifies Low

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88 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

heat level. Flashing indicator lights on the switch indicate
that the Heated Seat system needs servicing.

WARNING!

Persons who are unable to feel pain to the skin
because of advanced age, chronic illness, diabetes,
spinal cord injury, medication, alcohol use, exhaus­tion or other physical condition must exercise care
when using the seat heater. It may cause burns even
at low temperatures, especially if used for long
periods of time.

Do not place anything on the seat that insulates
against heat, such as a blanket or cushion. This may
cause the seat heater to overheat.

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.

Hood Release Lever Location

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 89

Then push the safety latch lever down while lifting the
grille with your right hand. It is located at the top center
of the grille just left of center.

Lift the hood and gas filled props will hold it open.

Secondary Latch Location (Push Down)

To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to
close it. Use a firm downward push at the center front
edge of the hood to ensure that both latches engage.
Never drive your vehicle unless the hood is fully closed,
with both latches engaged.

3

WARNING!

If the hood is not fully latched, it could fly up when
the vehicle is moving and block your forward vision.
Be sure all hood latches are fully latched before
driving.

90 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

LIGHTS Interior Lights

Courtesy and dome lights are turned on when the front
doors are opened, when the dimmer control (rotating
wheel on the right side of the switch) is rotated to the
second upward detent position, or if equipped, when the
UNLOCK button is pressed on the key fob.When a door
is open and the interior lights are on, rotating the dimmer

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 91

control all the way down to the OFF detent will cause all
the interior lights to go out. This is also known as the
⬙Party⬙ mode because it allows the doors to stay open for
extended periods of time without discharging the vehi­cle’s battery.

The brightness of the instrument panel lighting can be
regulated by rotating the dimmer control up (brighter) or
down (dimmer). When the headlights are ON you can
supplement the brightness of the odometer, trip odom­eter, radio and overhead console by rotating the control
up until you hear a click. This feature is termed the
“Parade” mode and is useful when headlights are re­quired during the day. If the dimmer control is not in this
position, the audio display may be difficult to read if the
headlights are on during the daytime.

Club Cab/Quad Cab models may have an optional
switched dome lamp that may be operated by pressing
the lens.

Battery Saver

To protect the life of your vehicle’s battery, Load Shed­ding is provided for both the interior and exterior lights.

If the ignition is off and any door is left ajar for 15
minutes or the dimmer control is rotated upwards for 15
minutes, the interior lights will automatically turn off.

If the headlamps remain on while the ignition is cycled
off, the exterior lights will automatically turn off after 8
minutes. If the headlamps are turned on and left on for 8
minutes while the ignition is off, the exterior lights will
automatically turn off.

NOTE: Battery Saver mode is cancelled if the ignition is
ON.

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92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Headlamp Delay

To aid in your exit, your vehicle is equipped with a
headlamp delay that will leave the headlamps on for 60
seconds. This delay is initiated when the ignition is
turned OFF while the headlamp switch is on, and then
the headlamp switch is cycled off. The headlamps will
remain on for 60 seconds. Headlamp delay can be
cancelled by either turning the headlamp switch ON then
OFF or by turning the ignition ON.

Headlights, Parking Lights, Panel Lights

When the headlight switch is rotated to the first
position, the parking lights, taillights, side marker

lights, license plate light and instrument panel
lights are all turned on. The headlights will turn ON
when the switch is rotated to the second position.

Your vehicle is equipped with plastic headlight lenses
that are lighter and less susceptible to stone breakage
than glass headlights.

Plastic is not as scratch resistant as glass and therefore
different lens cleaning procedures must be followed.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 93

To minimize the possibility of scratching the lenses and
reducing light output, avoid wiping with a dry cloth. To
remove road dirt, wash with a mild soap solution fol­lowed by rinsing.

Do not use abrasive cleaning components, solvents, steel
wool or other abrasive materials to clean the lenses.

Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only)

The headlights on your vehicle will illuminate when the
engine is started. This provides a constant ⬙Lights ON⬙
condition until the ignition is turned OFF. The lights
illuminate at less than 50% of normal intensity. If the
parking brake is applied the Daytime Running Lights
will turn off.

Lights-on Reminder

If the headlights, parking lights, courtesy lights or cargo
lights are left on, after the ignition is turned off, a chime
will sound when the driver’s door is opened.

Fog Lights — If Equipped

The foglights are turned ON by placing the head­light rotary control in the parking light or head-

light position and pressing on the headlight rotary
control. The fog lights will operate only when the parking
lights are ON or when the vehicle headlights are ON low
beam. An indicator light located in the instrument cluster
will illuminate when the fog lights are on. The fog lights
will turn off when the switch is pressed a second time,
also when the headlight switch is rotated to the OFF
position, or the high beam is selected.

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94 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CARGO Light — If Equipped

The cargo lights are turned on by pressing on the
CARGO button. The interior lights will also turn on
when the cargo lights are on. The cargo lights will also
turn on for 30 seconds when a key fob Unlock is pressed,
as part of the illuminated entry feature.

Multifunction Control Lever

The multifunction control lever is located on the left side
of the steering column.

Turn Signals

Move the lever up or down to signal a right-hand or
left-hand turn.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 95

The arrow on either side of the instrument cluster flashes
to indicate the direction of the turn, and proper operation
of the front and rear turn signal lights. If an indicator fails
to light when the lever is moved, it would suggest that
the switch or indicator lamp is defective.

If a defective bulb or wiring circuit is detected for the
turn signal system, the arrow indicators will flash at a
faster rate.

You can signal a lane change by moving the lever
partially up or down.

NOTE: If a turn signal has been left on for at least a mile
duration, a continuous chime will sound.

Turn Signal Auto-Mode

Tap the multi-function control lever once and the turn
signal (left or right) will flash 3 times, and automatically
turn off.

Passing Light

You can signal another vehicle with your headlights by
partially pulling the multifunction lever toward the steer­ing wheel. This will cause the high beam headlights to
turn on until the lever is released.

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96 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

High Beam / Low Beam Select Switch

Pull the multifunction control lever fully toward the
steering wheel to switch the headlights from HIGH or
LOW beam.

WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS

The multifunction control lever is located on the left side
of the steering column.

Windshield Wipers

The wipers and washers are operated by a switch in the
multifunction control lever. Turn the end of the handle to
select the desired wiper speed.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 97

Intermittent Wiper System

The intermittent feature of this system was designed for
use when weather conditions make a single wiping cycle,
with a variable pause between cycles, desirable. For
maximum delay between cycles, rotate the control knob
into the upper end of the delay range.

The delay interval decreases as you rotate the knob until
it enters the LO continual speed position. The delay can
be regulated from a maximum of about 18 seconds
between cycles, to a cycle every 2 seconds. The delay
intervals will double in duration when the vehicle speed
is 10 mph (16 km) or less.

WARNING!

Sudden loss of visibility through the windshield
could lead to an accident. You might not see other
vehicles or other obstacles. To avoid sudden icing of
the windshield during freezing weather, warm the
windshield with defroster before and during wind­shield washer use.

NOTE: If the front wiper is operating when the ignition

is turned off, the wiper will automatically return to the
⬙Park⬙ position. When the vehicle is restarted, the wipers
will resume operation.

Windshield Washers

To use the washer, push in on the washer knob on the end
of the multifunction control lever and hold while spray is
desired. If the washer knob is depressed while in the
delay range, the wiper will operate for several seconds

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98 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

after the washer knob is released. It will then resume the
intermittent interval previously selected. If the washer
knob is pushed, for a period greater than 1 second, while
in the OFF position, the wiper will wipe approximately
three wipes, after the wash knob is released.

To prevent freeze-up of your windshield washer system
in cold weather, select a solution or mixture that meets or
exceeds the temperature range of your climate. This
rating information can be found on most washer fluid
containers.

TILT STEERING COLUMN

To tilt the column, pull rearward on the lever below the
turn signal control and move the wheel up or down, as
desired. Push the lever forward to lock the column firmly
in place.

Tilt Steering Column Lever

WARNING!

Tilting the steering column while the vehicle is
moving is dangerous. Without a stable steering col­umn, you could lose control of the vehicle and have
an accident. Adjust the column only while the ve­hicle is stopped. Be sure it is locked before driving.

ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED

When engaged, this device takes over accelerator opera­tion at speeds greater than (refer to the table below for
the speed for your specific engine). The controls are
mounted on the steering wheel.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 99

3

To Activate

Push the ON/OFF button to the ON position. In the
instrument cluster, the word “CRUISE” illuminates when
the system is on.

100 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

To Set At A Desired Speed

When the vehicle has reached the desired speed, press
and release the SET button. Release the accelerator and
the vehicle will operate at the selected speed.

To Deactivate

A soft tap on the brake pedal, normal braking, or pressing
the CANCEL button will deactivate speed control with­out erasing the memory. Pushing the ON/OFF button to
the OFF position or turning off the ignition erases the
memory.

WARNING!

Leaving the Speed Control ON when not in use is
dangerous. You could accidentally set the system to
cause it to go faster than you want. You could lose
control and have an accident. Always leave the
system OFF when you aren’t using it.

To Resume Speed

To resume a previously set speed, push and release the
RESUME button. Resume can be used at any speed above
(refer to the table below for the speed for your specific
engine).

To Vary The Speed Setting

When the speed control is on, speed can be increased by
pressing and holding the ACCEL button. When the
button is released, a new set speed will be established.

Tapping the ACCEL button once will result in a speed
increase (refer to the table below for the speed for your
specific engine). Each time the button is tapped, speed
increases so that tapping the button three times will
increase speed by three increments.