Dodge Ram 2500 2004 User Manual

SECTION PAGE

1

INTRODUCTION

2

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

4

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

5

STARTING AND OPERATING

6

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

7

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

9

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

..............................71

...................................137

.................................................199

..............................................295

...............................................317

..................................................383

.........................................401

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

10

INDEX

....................................................................411

10

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1

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

m A Message From DaimlerChrysler Corporation . . . 4

m How To Use This Manual .................. 5

m Warnings And Cautions ...................5

m Van Conversions/Campers .................6

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

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

4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared with the assistance of
service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is
supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and
various customer oriented documents. You are urged to
read these publications carefully. Following the instruc­tions and recommendations in this manual will help
assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle.

NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.

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

WARNING!

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects orother reproductive harm. Inaddition,
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.

A MESSAGE FROM DAIMLERCHRYSLER
CORPORATION

DaimlerChrysler Corporation and Cummins welcome
you as a new Dodge Ram Cummins Turbo Diesel­powered truck owner.

INTRODUCTION 5

Almost 100% of the heavy duty trucks in the United
States are diesel powered because of the fuel economy,
rugged durability, and high torque which permits pulling
heavy loads. Cummins engines power well over half of
these trucks. Now this same technology and proven
performance is yours in your new Dodge Ram truck
equipped with the Cummins 5.9 liter, Turbocharged,
Charge Air Cooled, Diesel engine.

Your diesel truck will sound, feel, drive, and operate
differently froma gasoline-powered truck. It is important
that you read and understand this manual. You may find
that some of the starting, operating, and maintenance
procedures are different. However, they are simple to
follow and careful adherence to them will ensure that
you take full advantage of the features of this engine.

Thank you for choosing the Dodge Ram truck with
Cummins Turbo Diesel power.

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.

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.

1

6 INTRODUCTION

VAN CONVERSIONS/CAMPERS

The Manufacturer’s Warranty does not apply to body
modifications or special equipment installed by van
conversion/camper manufacturers/ body builders. Such
equipment includes video monitors, VCRs, heaters,
stoves, refrigerators, etc. For warranty coverage and
service on these items, contact the applicable manufac­turer.

Operating instructions for the special equipment in­stalled by the conversion/camper manufacturer should
also be supplied with your vehicle. If these instructions
are missing, please contact your selling dealer for assis­tance in obtaining replacement documents from the
applicable manufacturer.

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 numberand optional
equipment.

NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.

INTRODUCTION 7

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS

1

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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

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

▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................11

▫ Sentry Key — If Equipped ................11

m Ignition And Steering Lock .................14

▫ Manual Transmissions ...................14

▫ Automatic Transmissions .................15

m Door Key .............................16

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

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

2

▫ Power Door Locks — If Equipped ..........17

▫ Child Protection Door Lock ...............21

m Remote Keyless Entry — If Equipped .........22

▫ To Unlock The Doors ...................23

▫ To Lock The Doors .....................24

▫ Using The Panic Alarm ..................25

▫ Programming Additional Transmitters ........26

▫ General Information ....................27

▫ Transmitter Battery Service ...............28

10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

m Security Alarm System — If Equipped .........29

▫ Rearming Of The System .................29

▫ To Set The Alarm ......................29

▫ To Disarm The System ...................30

m Windows .............................31

▫ Power Windows—If Equipped .............31

▫ Sliding Rear Window—If Equipped .........32

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

m Occupant Restraints ......................33

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................34

▫ Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....41

▫ Automatic Locking Mode (If Equipped) ......41

▫ Center Lap Belts .......................42

▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................42

▫ Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System

(BeltAlert) ...........................43

▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............44

▫ Seat Belt Extender ......................44

▫ Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental

Restraint System (SRS)—Airbag ............45

▫ Child Restraint ........................55

m New Engine Break-In .....................67

m Safety Tips ............................68

▫ Transporting Passengers .................68

▫ Lock Your Vehicle ......................69

▫ Exhaust Gas ..........................69

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The

Vehicle ..............................70

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The

Vehicle ..............................70

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

The double sided keys may be inserted into the locks
with either side up. The keys for your new vehicle are
enclosed in a plastic bag with a bar code label affixed to
the front. The bar code can be used to order duplicate
keys from your dealer or a locksmith. If you received
your keys without the bag, ask your dealer to give you
the number.

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

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

CAUTION!

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

SENTRY KEY — IF EQUIPPED

With this system, an electronically coded ignition key
sends a signal to the vehicle electronics. If the electronics
recognizes the signal, the vehicle will start and continue
to run. If the system does not recognize the signal the
vehicle will start and run for a maximum of 2 seconds
after the initial key ON. After six unsuccessful attempts
at starting, the system will shut down until the correct
key is used.

NOTE: The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not
compatible with remote starting systems. Use of these
systems may result in vehicle starting problems and a
loss of security protection. Additional Sentry Keys or
Mobil Speed-pass™ devices held against or immediately
adjacent to the ignition key when starting the engine may
cause vehicle starting problems. If a problem occurs,
remove the Sentry Key from the key-ring and attempt to
start the vehicle again. Pagers, cell phones, walkman, etc.
will have no effect on this system.

2

12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The 9Security Light9, located in the instrument cluster,
will illuminate for about 2 seconds when the ignition
switch is first turned to the ON position. If the vehicle
electronics do not receive a valid signal from the ignition
key, the 9Security Light9 will flash continuously to signal
that the vehicle has been immobilized. If the 9Security
Light9 remains on during vehicle operation, it indicates a
fault in the system electronics. If this option was ordered,
all of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been
programmed to the vehicle electronics.

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 number. This number is required
for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may
be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the
Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure
consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle
electronics. A blank key is one which has never been
programmed and needs to be cut.

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13

Customer Key Programming

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

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

2. Insert the second valid key and switch the ignition to
the ON position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds the
9Security Light9 will begin to flash. Turn the ignition back
to the OFF position and remove the second key.

3. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition and switch
the ignition to the ON position within 60 seconds of
having removed the second key. After 10 seconds the
9Security Light9 will stop flashing, then turn on for 3
seconds; then turn off.

The new Sentry Key has been programmed. Repeat this
process to program up to an additional 6 keys. A maxi­mum of 8 keys can be programmed to the system,
including the original keys provided with the vehicle.

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.

2

14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

IGNITION AND STEERING LOCK
Manual Transmissions

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.

Manual Transmissions

Automatic Transmissions

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. The key can be inserted or withdrawn only in the
LOCK position. Push in on the key in the ignition lock
cylinder to rotate to the LOCK position.

NOTE: The steering wheel will the lock when the key is
removed, and the steering wheel is turned around 115
degrees from center clockwise and around 65 degrees
counter-clockwise.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

2

Automatic Transmissions

NOTE: On vehicles equipped with an automatic trans-

mission, the key cannot be turned to LOCK until the
selector is in the PARK position. Do not attempt to pull
the shift lever out of PARK after the key is in the LOCK
position.

16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

DOOR KEY

The same key used to start the vehicle is also used to
unlock the doors. To unlock the vehicle doors, insert the
key into the lock and turn.

To lock the doors, insert the key and turn.

DOOR LOCKS
Manual Locks

Front and Rear doors may be locked, by moving the lock
plunger up or down.

All doors may be opened with the inside door handle
without lifting the lock plunger. Doors locked before
closing will remain locked when closed.

The ignition key will unlock all the locks on your vehicle.

WARNING!

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

WARNING!

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

Power Door Locks — If Equipped

NOTE: Vehicles equipped with remote keyless entry do
not have a passenger side door lock cylinder.

Vehicles equipped with power door locks can be locked
or unlocked from inside by either the use of the door lock
switches located on the front doors or by pressing the
LOCK or UNLOCK buttons on the Remote Keyless Entry
key fob (if equipped).

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

2

18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Central Locking — If Equipped

Vehicles with security will have a feature called 9Central
Locking9. When the key is placed in the door cylinder
and turned to the 9Unlock9 position, the security will be
disarmed, the illuminated entry will be turned on and
that door will be mechanically unlocked. If the key is
once again turned to the unlock positionwithin 5 seconds
of the first unlock, the remaining doors will unlock. If the
key is turned to the 9Lock9 position while all doors are
closed, illuminated entry will be canceled, security will
begin arming, and all doors will lock.

As a safety feature the doors will not lock when using the
door lock switches during the following condition:

1. 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.

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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19

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 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. Asingle chime will be heard toindicate the feature has
been disabled.

7. To reactivate 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.

Auto Unlock Feature

This feature unlocks all the doors of the vehicle when the
driver’s door is opened first. The following conditions
must be met:

•

The driver’s door must be opened first.

•

The Automatic Door Lock feature must be enabled.

•

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

the Off position.
This feature will not operate if any of the conditions

above are not met or following has occurred:

•

Any manual operation of a door lock switch has

occurred.

2

20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Auto Unlock Feature Programming

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

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 4 seconds, cycle the key from the OFF position
to the ON position 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 21

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.

To use the system, open each rear door and slide the
control UP to engage the locks and DOWN to disengage
the child-protection 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.

2

22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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.

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.

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY — IF EQUIPPED

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23

To unlock the doors:

Press and release the UNLOCK button on the key fob
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, the parking lights will
flash on twiceand if installed, the cargo lamp will turn on
for 30 seconds.

The system can be programmed to unlock all the doors
upon the first UNLOCK button press 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. Turn the ignition to the ON position ( Do not start the
engine ).

5. Press andhold the UNLOCK buttonon a programmed
(i.e. functional) key fob.

6. Continue to hold the UNLOCK button, wait at least 4
seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and
hold the LOCK button.

7. When a single chime is heard, release both buttons.

8. Turn the ignition to the OFF position or wait 60
seconds.

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

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

2

24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To lock the doors:

Press and release the LOCK button on the transmitter 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.

The horn chirp featurewill be shipped from the assembly
plants activated. If desired this feature 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. Turn the ignition to the ON position ( Do not start the
engine ).

5. Press and hold the LOCK button on a programmed
(i.e. functional) key fob.

6. Continue to hold the LOCK button, wait at least 4
seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and
hold the UNLOCK button.

7. When a single chime is heard, release both buttons.

8. Turn the ignition to the OFF position or wait 60
seconds.

9. Test the horn chirp feature by pressing the LOCK
button on the key fob with the ignition in the OFF
position, or the key removed.

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25

Vehicles will be shipped from the assembly plants with
the park lamp flash feature activated. If desired, this
feature 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. Turn the ignition to the ON position ( Do not start the
engine ).

5. Press and hold the LOCK button on a programmed
(i.e. functional) key fob.

6. Continue to hold the LOCK button, wait at least 4
seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and
hold the PANIC button.

7. When a single chime is heard, release both buttons.

8. Turn the ignition to the OFF position or wait 60
seconds.

9. Test the park lamp flash feature by pressing the LOCK
button on the key fob with the ignition in the OFF
position or the key removed.

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

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

Using the Panic Alarm

To activate the Panicmode 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.

To cancel the Panic mode press and release the PANIC
button on the transmitter a second time. Panic mode will

2

26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

automatically cancel after 3 minutes or if the vehicle is
started and exceeds 15 mph. 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.

Programming Additional Transmitters

Vehicles with the keyless entry option will be shipped
from the assembly plants with two key fob transmitters
programmed only for that vehicle. Atotal of four fobs can
be programmed for your vehicle. Additional fobs can be
programmed to your vehicle through the use of a cur­rently programmed fob.

NOTE: When entering program mode using that fob,
ALL currently programmed fobs will be erased and you
will have to reprogram them for your vehicle. However,
if program mode is entered and no action is performed,
the previously programmed fobs will continue to func­tion.

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

5. Press andhold the UNLOCK buttonon a programmed
(i.e. functional) key fob.

6. Continue to hold the UNLOCK button, wait at least 4
seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and
hold the PANIC button.

7. When a single chime is heard, release both buttons.
The chime indicates that the system is in program mode.

8. Press and release both the LOCK and UNLOCK
buttons, simultaneously on the fob to be programmed.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27

9. A single chime will be heard. The chime indicates that
the fob has been recognized.

10. Within 4 seconds of hearing the chime, press and
release any button on the fob being programmed.

11. A single chime will be heard. The chime indicates
that the fob has been programmed.

12. Repeat steps 8 to 11 for a total of 4 fobs.

13. Turn the ignition to the OFF position or wait 60
seconds to exit program mode.

14. Your vehicle will remain in program mode for up to
60 seconds from when the original chime (i.e. Step #7)
was heard. After 60 seconds, all programmed fobs will
function normally.

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

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 Keyless Entry Transmitter fails to operate from a
normal distance, check for these two conditions.

1. Weak batteries in transmitter. The expected life of the
batteries is from one to two years.

2

28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

Transmitter Battery Service

The recommended replacement battery is a 3V lithium
2016 cell. This transmitter requires two batteries.

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

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

2. Remove and replace the batteries. Be careful not to
disturb the metal terminal near the batteries. Install the
batteries with the positive terminal up, reference the note
9+ SIDE UP9 on the inside of the bottom half of the
transmitter case. 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 reassemble the transmitter case snap the two halves
together. Make sure there is an even gap between the two
halves. Test transmitter operation.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29

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. For the
first 3 minutes the horn will sound and the headlights
and security telltale will flash repeatedly. For an addi­tional 15 minutes only the headlights and security telltale
will flash. The engine will run only if a valid Sentry Key
is used to start the vehicle. Use of the Sentry Key will
disable the alarm.

Rearming of the System:

The security system will rearm itself after the 15 addi­tional minutes of headlights and security telltale flashing,
if the system has not been disabled. If the condition
which initiated the alarm is still present, the system will
ignore that condition and monitor the remaining doors
and ignition.

To Set the Alarm:

The alarm will set when you use the power door locks,
turn the key in the driver’s door lock cylinder, 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 16 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.

2

30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To Disarm the System:

Use the Keyless Entry transmitter or the key to turn the
driver’s door lock to the unlock position. If something
has triggered the system in your absence, the horn will
sound three times when you unlock the doors and the
security lamp will flash for 30 seconds. Check the vehicle
for tampering.

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 run for 2 seconds and then the security alarm will be
initiated. To exit alarming mode, press the transmitter
Unlock button, unlock the driver’s door using the key
cylinder, 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. You
may also accidentally disarm the system by unlocking
the driver’s door with the door key and then locking it
manually with the lock plunger. The door will be locked
but the Security Alarm will not arm.

WINDOWS
Power Windows—If Equipped

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31

2

The control on the left front door panel has up-down
switches that give you fingertip control of all power
windows. There is a single opening and closing switch on
the front passenger door for passenger window control
and on the rear doors of Quad Cab models. The windows
will operate only when the ignition switch is turned to
the ON or ACC (Accessory) position.

32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Auto Down (Driver’s Side Only)

The driver’s window switch has an Auto Down feature.
Press the window switch past the detent, release, and the
window will go down automatically.

Window Lockout Switch (4 Door Models Only)

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.

Sliding Rear Window—If Equipped

A locking device in the center of the window helps to
prevent entry from the rear of the vehicle. Squeeze the
lock to release the window.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33

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 positions. This is a
normal occurrence and can be minimized. If the buffeting
occurs with the rear windows open, open the front and
rear windows together to minimize the buffeting.

OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

Some of the most important safety features in your
vehicle are the restraint systems. These include the front
and rear seat belts for the driver and all passengers, front
airbags for both the driver and front passenger and, if so
equipped, window bags for the driver and passengers
seated next to a window. If you will be carrying children
too small for adult-size belts, your seat belts also 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.

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34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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
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 Quad Cab front center
seating position 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35

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. Peoplebelted together can crashinto 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

36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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
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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37

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 thestrong hip and pelvic bones,but across your
abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as pos­sible and keep it snug.

• Atwisted belt can’t do its job as well. In a collision
it could even cutinto 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.

2

38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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.) or if the airbag deployed.

Standard Cab Front Center Three Point Belt

1. The front center seat belt on the Standard Cab may be
disconnected to open up utilization of the storage areas
behind the front seats. The black latch plate can be
detached from the black keyed seat belt buckle located on
the inboard side of the passenger seat. Insert the vehicle
ignition key intothe center white slot on the black buckle.
The black buckle latch plate can be removed when the
key is pressed into the buckle. Allow the retractor to take
up the surplus webbing, and the buckles will hang
vertically from the cab back exit bezel, thus freeing up all
the area behind the front seats.

Detaching Buckle with Key

2. To reattach the seat belt to the front center seat, pull
the black buckle latch plate forward from the cab back
panel and insert it into the black keyed buckle until there
is an audible click. Refer to the previous section for the
proper seat belt usage.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39

WARNING!

•

If the black latch and black buckle are not prop­erly connected when the seat belt is used by an
occupant, the seat belt will not be able to provide
proper restraint and will increase the risk of
injury in a collision.

•

When reattaching the black latch and black
buckle, ensure the seat belt webbing is not
twisted. If the webbing is twisted, follow the
preceding procedure to detach the black latch and
black buckle, untwist the webbing, and reattach
the black latch and black buckle.

2

40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Inserting Latch Plate In Use Position

WARNING!

If the black latch and buckle are not connected when
the seat belt is usedby an occupant, the seat belt will
not restrain you properly.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41

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. Press the button located on the
upper belt guide, and then move it up or down to the
position that serves you best.

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

Automatic Locking Mode (if Equipped)

In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre­locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in
the shoulder belt. The automatic locking mode is only
available on the front passenger side belt.

When To Use The Automatic Locking Mode

Anytime a child safety seat is installed in a passenger
front seating position. Children 12 years old and under
should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever
possible.

How To Use The Automatic Locking Mode

1. Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

2

42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

2. Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until
the entire belt is extracted.

3. Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will
hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is
now in the automatic locking mode.

How To Disengage The Automatic Locking Mode

Disconnect the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow
it to retract completely to disengage the automatic lock­ing mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency)
locking mode.

Center Lap Belts

The center seating position for the Quad Cab front seat
has a lap belt only. To fasten the lap belt, slide the latch
plate into the buckle until you hear a 9click.9 To lengthen
the lap belt, tilt the latch plate and pull. To remove slack,
pull the loose end of the webbing. Wear the lap belt snug
against the hips. Sit back and erectin the seat, then adjust
the belt as tightly as is comfortable.

WARNING!

•

A lap belt worn too loose or too highis dangerous.

•

A belt worn too loose can allow you to slip down
and under the belt in a collision.

•

A belt thatis too loose or too high willapply crash
forces to the abdomen, not to the stronger hip
bones. In either case, the risk of internal injuries
is greater. Wear a lap belt low and snug.

Seat Belt Pretensioners

The seat belts for both front seating positions are
equipped with pretensioningdevices 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43

NOTE: These devices are not asubstitute 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 airbag control
module. 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) willalert the driver to buckle their seat
belt. The drivershould also instruct allother occupants to
buckle their seat belts. Once the warning is triggered, the
Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert) will continue to
chime and flash the Seat Belt Warning Light for 96
seconds or until the driver’s seat belt is buckled. The

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

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

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

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

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

2

44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

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

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

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

Seat Belts and Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45

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.

Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS)—Airbag

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

These airbags are certified to the new Federal regulations
that allow less forceful deployments.

2

This vehicle may also be equipped with window bags to
protect the driver and passengers in the first and second
row 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.

46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

• Do not put anything on or around the airbag covers or

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

• Do not mount any aftermarket equipment such as trailer

brake controllers, snowplow controllers, auxiliary light
switches, radios, etc. on or behind the knee bolster. Knee
bolsters are designed to work with the air bag and seat
belt to protect you. Mounting any additional equipment
on or behind the knee bolster can cause injury during a
crash.

• 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 installationon thevehicle roof.Do not drill
into the roof of the vehicle for any reason.

Airbags inflate in moderate to high speed impacts. Along
with the seatbelts,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. In certain
types of collisions, both the front and side airbags may be
triggered. 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.

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

•

Children 12years and under should ride buckled up in
a rear seat, if available.

•

Infants in rear facing child restraints must NEVER
ride in the front seat of a vehiclewith a passenger front
airbag unless the airbag is turned off (Standard Cab
Vehicles Only). An airbag deployment can cause se­vere injury or death to infants in that position. See the
Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch section.

•

If your vehicle does not have a rear seat, see the
Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch section.

•

Children that are not big enough to properly wear the
vehicle seat belt (see section on Child Restraints)
should be secured in the rear seat in child restraints or
belt-positioning booster seats. Older children who do
not use child restraints or belt-positioning booster
seats should ride properly buckled up in the rear seat.
Never allow children to slide the shoulder belt behind
them or under their arm.

•

All occupants should use their seat belts properly.

•

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

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

2

48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Airbag System Components

The airbag system consists of the following:

•

Airbag Control Module

•

AIRBAG Readiness Light

•

Driver Airbag

•

Passenger Airbag

•

Steering Wheel and Column

•

Instrument Panel

•

Crash Sensor

•

Interconnecting Wiring

•

Knee Impact Bolsters

•

Passenger Side Frontal Airbag ON/OFF Switch (Stan­dard Cab Vehicles Only)

The Window Airbag System, on vehicles equipped,
consists of the following:

•

AIRBAG Readiness Light (sharedwith the front airbag
system)

•

Window Bags Above the Side Windows.

•

Airbag Control Module (shared with the front airbag
system)

•

Side impact sensors

•

Interconnecting Wiring

How The Airbag System Works

•

The airbag control module determines if a frontal
collision is severe enough to require the airbags to
inflate.

•

The airbag control module will not detect roll over, or
rear collisions.

•

The airbag control module also monitors the readiness
of the electronic parts of the system whenever the
ignition switch is in the START or RUN positions.
These include all of the items listed above except the
knee bolsters, the instrument panel, and the steering
wheel and column. If the key is in the 9Off9 position, in
the ACC position or not in the ignition, the airbags are
not on and will not inflate

•

The airbag control module also turns on the AIR BAG
light in the instrument panel for 6 to 8 seconds when
the ignition is first turned on, then turns the light off.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49

•

If it detects a malfunction in any part of the
system, it turns on the light either momen-

tarily or continuously. The instrument cluster
will flash the seat belt indicator if it detects a fault with
the airbag indicator.

WARNING!

Ignoring the AIR BAG 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.

2

50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

When the airbag control module detects a collision
requiring the airbags, it signals the inflator units. A
large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate
the airbags. The airbag covers separate and fold out of
the way as the airbags inflate to their full size. The
airbags fully inflate in milliseconds. This is less time
than it takes you to blink your eyes. The airbags then
quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and
front passenger. The driver’s front airbag deflates
through vents towards the instrument panel. The
passenger’s front airbag is deflated through vent holes
in the sides of the airbag. In this way the airbags do
not interfere with your control of the vehicle.

•

The knee impact bolsters help protect the knees and
position you for the best interaction with the front
airbag.

Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch – (Standard Cab
Vehicles Only)

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51

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.

To Shut Off the Passenger Airbag (Standard Cab Ve­hicles Only)

Place the ignition key in the Passenger Airbag On/Off
Switch, push the key in and turn clockwise, and remove
the key from the switch. This will shut off the passenger
side airbag. The “Off” light near the switch will illumi­nate when the ignition switch is turned to the ON
position.

2

52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To Turn On the Passenger Airbag (Standard Cab Ve­hicles Only)

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 airbag. The “Off” light near the switch will be
off when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position.

If A Deployment Occurs

The airbag system is designed to deploy when the air bag
control module detects a moderate-to-severe frontal col­lision, and then immediately to deflate.

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 by-product of the
process that generates the nontoxic gas used for airbag
inflation. These airborneparticles 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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53

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 inplace to protect you.

WARNING!

Deployed airbags can’t protect you in another colli­sion. Have the airbags replaced by an authorized
dealer as soon as possible.

Window Airbags Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS)—If Equipped

The window airbag control module determines if a side
collision is severe enough to require the side airbags to
inflate. The window airbag control module will not
detect roll over, front or rear collisions.

The airbag control module monitors the readiness of the
electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition
switch is in the 9START9 or 9RUN9 positions. These
include all of the items listed above. The airbag control
module also turns on theAIRBAG light in the instrument
panel for 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition is first turned
on as a diagnostic or system check, then turns the light
off. If it detects a malfunction in any part of the system,
it turns on the light either momentarily or continuously.

The side (window) impact SRS Airbags are designed to
activate only in certain side collisions. When the airbag
control module detects a collision requiring the window

2

54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

bags to inflate, it signals the inflators on the crash side of
the vehicle. A quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to
inflate the window bag. The inflating window bag
pushes the side pillar molding out of the way and covers
the window. The airbag inflates in about 30 milliseconds
(about one-quarter of the time it takes to blink your eyes)
with enough force to injure you if you are not belted and
seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area
where the window bag inflates. This especially applies to

1

children. The window bag is only about 3

⁄2inches (8.9

cm) thick when it is inflated.

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 10 seconds after the vehicle has stopped
moving, the interior lights will light until the ignition
switch is turned off.

Maintaining Your Airbag Systems

WARNING!

•

Modifications to any part of the airbag system
could cause it to fail when you need it. You could
be injured because the airbags are not there to
protect you. Do not modify the components or
wiring, including adding any kind of badges or
stickers to the steering wheel hub trim cover or
the upper right side of the instrument panel. Do
not modify the front bumper, vehicle body struc­ture, or frame.

•

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

•

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55

Airbag Light

You will want tohave the airbags readyto 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 fuse num­bers 52 and 53 in the fuse and relay center. See your
dealer if the fuse is good.

Child Restraint

Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up all the
time — babiesand 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.

2

56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

In a collision, an unrestrained child, even a tiny
baby, can become a missile inside the vehicle. The
force required to hold even an infant on your lap can
become so great that you could not hold the child, no
matter how strong you are. The child and others
could be badly injured. Any child riding in your
vehicle should be in a proper restraint for the child’s
size.

Infants and Small Children

There are different sizes and types of restraints for
children from newborn size to the child almost large
enough for an adult safety belt. Use the restraint that is
correct for your child:

•

Safety experts recommend that children ride
rearward-facing in the vehicle until they are at least

one year old and weigh at least 20 lbs (9 kg). Two types
of child restraints can be used rearward-facing: infant
carriers and 9convertible9 child seats. Both types of
child restraints are held in the vehicle by the lap/
shoulder belt.

•

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

•

Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in
the front seat of a vehicle with a front passenger airbag

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57

unless the airbag is turned off. An airbag deployment
could cause severe injury or death to infants in this
position.

•

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 who
are older than one year. These child seats are also held
in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt.

•

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 vehicle’s seat
cushion while the child’s back is against the seat back,
they should use a belt-positioning-booster seat. The
child and booster seat are held in the vehicle by the
lap/shoulder belt. (Some booster seats are equipped

with a front shield and are held in the vehicle by the
lap portion.) For further 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 child restraint should only be
used in a rear seat, or in the front seat if the
passenger’s front airbag is Off. If the airbag is left
On, a rearward facing child restraint in the front
seat may be struck by a deploying passenger
airbag which may cause severe or fatal injury to
the infant.

2

58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Here are some tips for getting themost out of your child
restraint:

•

Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it
has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety
Standards. We also recommend that you make sure
that you can install the child restraint in the vehicle
where you will use it before you buy it.

•

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

•

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

•

The passenger seat belts are equipped with either
cinching latch plates or switchable seat belt retractors,

which are designed to keep the lap portion tight
around the child restraint so that it is not 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 a switchable 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 on the belt until it is all removed 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. Refer to the 9Automatic Locking Mode9 earlier
in this section.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59

•

In the rear seat, you may 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. Disconnect the latch plate
from the buckle and twist the short buckle-end belt
several times to shorten it. Insert the latch plate into
the buckle with the release button facing out.

•

If the belt still can’t be tightened, or if pulling and
pushing on the restraint loosens the belt, disconnect
the latch plate from the buckle, turn the buckle
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.

•

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

•

When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the
vehicle with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle.

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.

2

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.

Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH)

Each vehicle is equipped with the child restraint anchor­age system called LATCH, which stands for Lower
Anchors and Tether for CHildren. LATCH child restraint
anchorage systems are installed in the Standard Cab
passenger seat position and the Quad Cab rear seat

60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

outboard positions and also feature tether strap anchor­ages, which must be used, located behind the seatback
(refer to Child Restraint Tether Anchor later in this
section).

Identification dots are located above the standard cab
front seat lower anchorages as a guide for locating lower
anchors.

NOTE: For children riding in the front seat of a Stan­dard Cab model refer to the “Passenger Airbag On/Off
Switch” located in this section.

Standard Cab Passenger Seat

Quad Cab Outboard Seat

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61

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

Because the lower anchorages are to be introduced to
passenger carrying vehicles over a period of years, child
restraint systems having attachments for those anchor­ages will continue to have features for installation in
vehicles using thelap or lap/shoulder belt. They will also
have tether straps, and you are urged to take advantage
of all of the available attachments provided with your
child restraint in any vehicle.

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

2

62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Installing the Child Restraint System

WARNING!

Do not install child restraint systems equipped with
LATCH attachments in the center position of a Quad
Cab model rear seat. The LATCH anchorages in this
seat are designed for the two outboard seating posi­tions only. A child may be placed in the rear center
seating position of a Quad Cab model using the seat
belt and child tether anchorage. Failure to follow this
may result in serious or fatal injury.

We urge that you carefully follow the directions of the
manufacturer when installing your child restraint. Many,
but not all, restraint systems will be equipped with

separate straps on each side, with each having a hook or
connector and a means for adjusting the tension in the
strap. Forward-facing toddler restraints and some
rearward-facing infant restraints will also be equipped
with a tether strap, a hook and means for adjusting the
tension in the strap.

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

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63

WARNING!

Improper installation of a child restraint to the
LATCH anchorages can lead to failure of an infant or
child restraint. The child could be badly injured or
killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly
when installing an infant or child restraint.

Child Restraint Tether Anchor

Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for con­nection to tether anchors have been available for some
time. In fact, many child restraint manufacturers will
provide add-on tether strap kits for their older products.
Regular Cab models of Ram Pickups have two tether
anchorages, one each behind the front center and right
seats. Quad Cab models have three anchorages, one
behind each of the rear seats.

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 seat to
secure a child restraint top tether strap. Follow the
instructions below. See your dealer for help if nec­essary.

2

64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Tether Anchorage Points at the Right and Center
Front Seat (Regular Cab - All Seats)

1. Place the child restraint on the seat and adjust the
tether strap so that it will reach over the seat back under
the head restraint to the tether anchor directly behind the
seat.

2. Lift the cover (if so equipped), and attach the hook to
the square opening in the sheet metal.

3. Install the child restraint and remove the slack in the
tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Regular Cab With Any Bench Seat

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65

Multiple Child Restraint Installation Sequence ­(Quad Cab Rear Seats)

1. Obtain tether straps by raising the head restraints and
reaching between the rear glass and rear seat. The tether
strap may be retained with an elastic band. Accessibility
to the tether strap is greatly improved by raising the seat
cushion to the “up” position. Remove the elastic before
use.

2. Place a child restraint on each outboard rear seat and
adjust the tether strap so that it will reach under the head
restraint to the tether anchor directly behind the seat and
then to the anchor directly behind the center rear seat.

3. Pass each tether strap hook under the head restraint
and through the loop of webbing behind the child seat.

4. Route each tether strap to the anchor behind the center
seat, and attach the hooks to the metal ring.

5. Place a child restraint on the center rear seat and
adjust the tether strap so that it will reach under the head
restraint to the tether anchor directly behind the seat and
to the anchor directly behind the right seat.

6. Install each child restraint and remove the slack in the
tether strap according to the child restraint manufactur­er’s instructions.

2

66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Multiple Child Restraints

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67

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.

If the shoulder belt contacts the face or neck, move the
child closer to the center of the vehicle. Never allow a
child to put the shoulder belt under an arm or behind
their back.

NEW ENGINE BREAK-IN

Your Cummins 24 Valve Turbo Diesel engine does not
require a normal break-in period due to its construction.
Normal operation is allowed, provided the following
recommendations are followed:

NOTE: Light duty operation such as light trailer towing
or no load operation, will extend the time before the
engine is at full efficiency. Reduced fuel economy and
power may be seen at this time.

•

Warm up the engine before placing it under load.

•

Do not operate the engine at idle for prolonged
periods.

•

Use the appropriate transmission gear to prevent
engine lugging.

•

Observe vehicle oil pressure and temperature indica­tors.

2

68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

Check the coolant and oil levels frequently.

•

Vary throttle position at highway speeds when carry­ing or towing significant weight.

Because of the construction of the Cummins Diesel
engine, engine run-in is enhanced by loaded operating
conditions which allow the engine parts to achieve final
finish and fit during the first 6,000 miles (10 000 km).

CAUTION!

•

During the first 500 miles (805 km) your new
vehicle is driven, do not tow a trailer. Doing so
may damage your vehicle.

•

Limit your speed to 50 mph (80 km/h) during the
first 500 miles (805 km) of towing.

SAFETY TIPS
Transporting Passengers

This vehicle is designed to carry passengers in the cab
only. For safety reasons, NEVER TRANSPORT PASSEN­GERS IN THE CARGO AREA.

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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 69

Lock Your Vehicle

Always remove the keys from the ignition and lock all
doors when leaving the vehicle unattended, even in your
own driveway or garage. Try to park your vehicle in a
well-lighted area and never invite theft by leaving ar­ticles of value exposed.

Exhaust Gas

WARNING!

Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a poten­tially toxic gas thatby 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.

•

If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running for more than a short period, 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 MAX A/C.

•

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.

2

70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle

Seat Belts

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

Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after an accident if
they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.)
or if the front airbags havedeployed. 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.

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 areaunder 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

m Mirrors ...............................75

▫ Inside Mirror .........................75

▫ Automatic Dimming Mirror— If Equipped ....76

▫ Outside Mirrors .......................76

▫ Exterior Mirrors Folding Feature ...........77

▫ Electronic Power Mirrors — If Equipped ......77

▫ Electric Rear Window Defroster And Heated

Sideview Mirrors — If Equipped ...........78

m Hands–Free Communication (UConnect™) — If

Equipped .............................79

▫ Operation ............................81

▫ Phone Call Features ....................85

▫ Advanced Phone Connectivity .............87

▫ UConnect™ System Features ..............89

m Seats .................................91

▫ 40-20-40 Front Seat .....................92

3

▫ Trailer Towing Mirrors — If Equipped .......79

▫ Reclining Seats ........................93

72 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

▫ Adjustable Head Restraints ...............93

▫ Manual Rotary Lumbar Support

Adjustment — If Equipped ...............94

▫ Power Seats — If Equipped ...............95

▫ Heated Seats — If Equipped ..............96

m To Open And Close The Hood ..............97

m Lights ................................99

▫ Interior Lights ........................99

▫ Battery Saver ........................100

▫ Headlamp Delay — If Equipped ..........101

▫ Headlights, Parking Lights, Panel Lights .....101

▫ Daytime Running Lights (Canada And Fleet

Vehicles Only) .......................102

▫ Lights-On Reminder ...................102

▫ Fog Lights — If Equipped ...............102

▫ Cargo Light .........................103

m Multifunction Control Lever ...............103

▫ Turn Signals .........................103

▫ Passing Light ........................104

▫ High Beam / Low Beam Select Switch ......104

▫ Windshield Wipers ....................105

▫ Windshield Washers ...................106

m Tilt Steering Column ....................107

m Driver Adjustable Pedals — If Equipped ......108

▫ Adjustment .........................108

m Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped ......109

▫ To Activate ..........................109

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 73

▫ To Set At A Desired Speed ...............110

▫ To Deactivate ........................110

▫ To Resume Speed .....................110

▫ To Vary The Speed Setting ...............111

▫ To Accelerate For Passing ...............111

m Overhead Console— If Equipped ...........112

▫ Courtesy/Reading Lights ................113

m Overhead Console With Compass/Temperature

Mini-Trip Computer — If Equipped ..........113

▫ US/M Button ........................114

▫ Reset Button .........................114

▫ Global Reset .........................115

▫ Step Button .........................115

▫ Average Fuel Economy (AVG ECO) ........115

▫ Distance To Empty (DTE) ...............115

▫ Trip Odometer (ODO) ..................116

▫ Elapsed Time (ET) .....................116

▫ C/T Button .........................117

▫ Automatic Compass Calibration ...........117

▫ Manual Compass Calibration .............118

▫ To Put Into a Calibration Mode ...........118

▫ Outside Temperature ...................119

m Garage Door Opener — If Equipped .........120

▫ Programming Homelink ................121

▫ Canadian Programming/Gate Programming . .123

▫ Using Homelink ......................124

3

74 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

▫ Erasing Homelink Buttons ...............124

▫ Reprogramming a Single Homelink Button . . .125

▫ Security ............................125

m Electrical Power Outlets ..................126

m Cigar Lighter And Ash Receiver ............127

m Cupholders ...........................128

▫ Front Instrument Panel Cupholders —

Automatic Transmission Only ............128

▫ Rear Cupholder — Quad Cab — If

Equipped ...........................128

m Storage ..............................129

▫ Center Storage Compartment — If Equipped . . 129

▫ Storage And Seats — If Equipped ..........130

m Fold Flat Load Floor — If Equipped .........130

▫ Fold Flat Load Floor — If Equipped ........130

m Pickup Box ...........................133

m Slide-In Campers .......................135

▫ Camper Applications ...................135

m Easy-Off Tailgate .......................135

MIRRORS
Inside Mirror

The mirror should be adjusted to center on the view
through the rear window.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 75

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

3

76 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Automatic Dimming Mirror— If Equipped

This mirror automatically adjusts 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.

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.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 77

WARNING!

Vehicles and other objects seen in a right side convex
mirror will look smaller and farther away than they
really are. Relying too much on your right side
convex 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 convex mirror. Some vehicles will
not have a convex right side mirror.

Exterior Mirrors Folding Feature

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

Electronic Power Mirrors — If Equipped

3

78 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

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

Set the top switch to the left or right for the left or right
mirror, and set it to the center off position to prevent

accidentally moving a mirror when you are finished
adjusting the mirror. To adjust a mirror, select left or right
with the top switch, and press one of the four arrows for
the direction you want the mirror to move.

Electric Rear Window Defroster and Heated
Sideview Mirrors — If Equipped

The Electric Rear Window Defroster and Heated

side view mirrors are activated by pressing the
heated grid button, located on the Climate Control panel,
with the ignition On. Turning Off the ignition will
deactivate the Electric Rear Window Defroster and
Heated side view mirrors feature. These features also
turn off after activation, when 15 minutes have elapsed.
To reactivate, simply press the button again.

Trailer Towing Mirrors — If Equipped

These mirrors are designed with an adjustable mirror
head to provide a greater vision range when towing
extra-wide loads. To change position inboard or out­board, the mirror head should be rotated (flipped Out or
In). A small blindspot mirror is integrated onto the main
mirror surface.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 79

3

HANDS–FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect™) —
IF EQUIPPED

UConnect™ is a voice-activated, hands-free, in-vehicle
communications system. UConnect™; allows you to dial
your cellular phone using simple voice commands (e.g.,

80 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

“Call” or “Dial”). Your cellular phone’s audio is trans­mitted through your vehicle’s stereo system; the system
will automatically mute your radio before receiving or
sending a call.

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

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

phones to be linked to the system, and it is available in
English, French, or Spanish formats (as equipped).

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 81

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

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

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

Operation

Voice commands can be used in the operation of the
UConnect™ system and to navigate through the UCon­nect™ menu structure. Voice commands should be given
after each UConnect™ system prompt. You will be

prompted for a specific command and then guided
through the available options. There are two ways to give
commands to the UConnect™ system:

•

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

Pairing a Cellular Phone to the UConnect™ System

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

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup9.

•

When prompted, say “ Phone Pairing”.

3

82 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

You will then be asked to give your cellular phone a
priority level between 1 and 7, 1 having the highest
priority. You can connect up to seven cellular phones
to your UConnect™ system and the priority allows the

UConnect™ system to know which cellular phone to
use if multiple cellular phones are in the vehicle at the
same time. For example, if a priority 3 and priority 5
cellular phone are both in the vehicle, the UConnect™
system will use the priority 3 cellular phone when you
make a call. You can select to use a lower priority
cellular phone at any time.

Making a Phone Call Using Digit Dialing

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Dial9 or 9Call9 followed
by the phone number you wish to dial. For example,
you can say 9Dial” wait for ready prompt 123 456 7890.
The phone number that you enter must be a valid
length.

Making a Phone Call Using Your UConnect™
Phonebook

•

Press the “Phone” button to begin.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 83

•

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

Add Names to Your UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the “Phone” button to begin.

•

•

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

•

Or, After the 9Ready9 prompt, say “Phonebook”.

•

When prompted, say “New Entry”.

•

When prompted, say the name of the new entry.

•

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

•

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

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

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

Edit Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook Edit9.

•

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

•

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

•

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

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84 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

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

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

Delete Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook Delete9.

•

After you enter the phonebook delete menu, you will
then be asked for the name of the phonebook entry
that you wish to delete. You can either say the name of
a phonebook entry that you wish to delete or you can
say 9List Names9 to hear a list of the entries in the

phonebook from which you can choose. To select one
of the entries from the list, press the 9Voice Recogni­tion9 button while the UConnect™ system is playing
the desired entry and say 9Delete9.

•

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

Delete All Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

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

•

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

•

After confirmation, the phonebook entries will be
deleted.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 85

List All Names in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

The selected number will be dialed.

Phone Call Features

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

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

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

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86 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Answer or Reject an Incoming Call - Call
Currently in Progress

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

Making a Second Call while Current Call in
Progress

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

Putting a Call on Hold and Retrieving a Call from
Hold

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

Toggling Between Two Calls

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

Conference Call

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 87

Three-Way Calling

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

Call Termination

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

Phone Redial

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Redial9.

•

The UConnect™ system will call the last number that
was dialed onyour cellular phone. This maynot be the
last number dialed by your UConnect™ system.

Advanced Phone Connectivity

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

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

Delete Paired Cellular Phones

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup9.

•

When prompted, say “ Phone Pairing”.

•

At the next prompt, say 9Delete9.

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88 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

•

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

•

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

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

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

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

List Paired Cellular Phone Names

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

Select a Lower Priority Paired Cellular Phone

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup9.

•

When prompted, say “Select Phone”.

•

When prompted, say the phone name of the cellular
phone you wish to use, or say 9List Phones9 to hear a
list of all the phones that have been paired to your
UConnect™ system. To select a phone from the list,
press the ’Voice Recognition’ button and say 9Select9.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 89

•

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

UConnect™ System Features

Barge In - Touch Tone Phone Inputs

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

are pressing a number on your keypad to navigate
through a menu structure or to enter a number for a
pager.

Barge In - Overriding Prompts

The ’Voice Recognition’ button can be used when you
wish to skip part of a prompt and issue your voice
recognition command immediately. For example, if a
prompt is playing 9Would you like to pair a phone, clear
a{9, you could press the ’Voice Recognition’ button and
say 9Pair APhone9 to select that option without having to
listen to the rest of the voice prompt.

Language Selection

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

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90 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Turning Confirmation Prompts On/Off

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

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

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

Low Signal, Battery Strength, and Roam
Notification

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

Dialing Using the Cellular Phone Keypad

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

Mute/Unmute

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 91

Help

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

Cancel

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

Emergency Assistance

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

Towing Assistance

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

SEATS

The seating options available in this truckare the resultof
extensive customer research and evaluations.

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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92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

40-20-40 Front Seat

As the name implies, the seat is divided into 3 segments.
The outboard seat portions are each 40% of the total
width of the seat. The back of the center portion (20%)
easily folds down to provide an armrest/center storage
compartment (if equipped).

Each outboard seat is independently adjustable forward
or backward and is equipped with a back recliner. The
manual seat adjustment handle is found at the front edge
of each seat cushion. Pull up on the handle and slide the
seat to get the most comfortable position.

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.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 93

Reclining Seats

The recliner handle is on the outside of the seat cushion.
Pull up on the handle to release the seat back and adjust
for comfort.

WARNING!

You can be seriously, even fatally injured riding in a
seat with the seatback reclined. Do not ride with the
seatback reclined so that the shoulder belt is no
longer resting against your chest. If you ride in this
position, the shoulder harness will no longer be
restraining you. In a collision you could slide under
the seat belt and receive serious or fatal injuries.
Recline in a seat only when the vehicle is parked.

Adjustable Head Restraints

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

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94 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

To lower the head restraint, push in the button and then
push down on the head restraint.

Manual Rotary Lumbar Support Adjustment — If
Equipped

Rotating the lumbar control knob on the left side of the
driver’s seatback and on the right side of the passenger’s
seatback increases or decreases the lumbar support.

Lumbar Adjustment

Power Seats — If Equipped

CAUTION!

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 95

Don’t put anything under a power seat. It may cause
damage to the seat controls.

3

Up, Down, Forward, and Rearward

The power seat controls are on the outboard side of the
front seat cushions. 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

96 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

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

Tilt Adjustment

Heated Seats — If Equipped

The heated seat switches are located in the instrument
panel under the climate controls. The engine must be
running for the heated seats to operate.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 97

Each heated seat switch has two settings (HI and LOW).
Press the switch once to obtain the desired heating
position and press a second time in the same direction to
turn the heated seats OFF. If you do not purposefully
turn the switch OFF, the heating element in the seat will
remain activated until the ignition is turned off. The
indicators on the switch will illuminate when the heated
seats are in the (HI or LOW) position. Flashing telltale
lights on the switch indicate that the Heated Seat system
needs servicing.

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD

3

To open the hood, two latches must be released.First pull
the hood releaselever located below the steering wheel at
the base of the instrument panel. Once the hood is
released you must reach into the opening beneath the
center of the grille and push up the latch to release the
safety catch before raising the hood.

98 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to
close it. Use a firm downward push at the front center of
the hood to ensure that both latches engage.

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 latched fully before
driving.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 99

LIGHTS Interior Lights

Courtesy/ 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. Rotating the
dimmer controlto the optional fullyupward position will

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100 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

turn on the cargo light located on the back of the cab.
When a door is open and the interior lights are on,
rotating the dimmer control all the way down to the OFF
detent will cause all the interior lights to go out. This is
also known as the 9Party9 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.

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 5
minutes. After 5 minutes timeout, if the headlamp switch
is turned off and then turned on, the exterior lights will
automatically turn off after 15 minutes.

If the dimmer control is rotated to the cargo lamp
position with the ignition off, the cargo lamps will
automatically turn off after 15 minutes.

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