Dodge Ram Chassis Cab 2009 User Manual

2009
OWNER’S MANUAL
RAM TRUCK
CHASSIS CAB
SECTION PAGE
1
INTRODUCTION
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE
4
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
5
STARTING AND OPERATING
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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...............................9
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................................... 157
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1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
INDEX
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10
CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1
Introduction ........................... 4
How To Use This Manual .................. 4
Warnings And Cautions ................... 6
Van Conversions/Campers ................. 6
Vehicle Identification Number .............. 7
Vehicle Modifications/Alterations ............ 7
4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

This Owner’s Manual has been prepared with the assis­tance of service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your vehicle. It is supplemented by 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 referencing 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 authorized dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained technicians and genuine Moparparts, and is interested in your satisfaction.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

Consult the Table of Contents to determine which section contains the information you desire.
The detailed index at the back of this Owner’s Manual contains a complete listing of all subjects.
Consult the following table for a description of the symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout this Owner’s Manual:
INTRODUCTION 5
1
6 INTRODUCTION

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

This Owner’s Manual contains WARNINGS against op- erating procedures that could result in an accident or bodily injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against proce­dures that 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.

VAN CONVERSIONS/CAMPERS

The Manufacturer’s Warranty does not apply to body modifications or special equipment installed by van conversion/camper manufacturers/body builders. Refer to the Warranty information book, Section 2.1.C. 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 authorized dealer for assistance in obtaining replacement documents from the applicable manufacturer.
For information on the Body Builders Guide refer to: www.dodgebodybuilder.com. This website contains di­mensional and technical specifications for your vehicle. It is intended for Second Stage Manufacturer’s technical support. For service issues, contact your authorized dealer.
INTRODUCTION 7

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is found on the left front corner of the instrument panel, visible through the windshield. This number also appears on the Auto­mobile Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on your vehicle, the vehicle registration and title.
Vehicle Identification Number
NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN.
1

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS
A Word About Your Keys ................. 12
Ignition Key Removal .................. 12
Locking Doors With The Key ............. 14
Steering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ......... 14
If You Wish To Manually Lock The Steering
Wheel ............................. 14
To Release The Steering Wheel Lock ........ 15
Sentry Key.......................... 15
Replacement Keys ..................... 16
2
Customer Key Programming ............. 17
General Information ................... 18
Vehicle Security Alarm System — If Equipped . . 19
Rearming Of The System ................ 19
To Set The Alarm ..................... 19
To Disarm The System ................. 20
Illuminated Entry System — If Equipped ...... 20
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) — If Equipped . . . 21
To Unlock The Doors .................. 22
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
To Lock The Doors .................... 22
Using The Panic Alarm ................. 23
Programming Additional RKE Transmitters . . . 24
General Information ................... 24
RKE Transmitter Battery Service ........... 25
Remote Starting System — If Equipped ....... 26
Door Locks ........................... 27
Manual Door Locks ................... 27
Power Door Locks — If Equipped ......... 28
Child Protection Door Lock .............. 30
Windows ............................ 32
Power Windows – If Equipped ............ 32
Power Sliding Rear Window – If Equipped . . . 34
Sliding Rear Window – If Equipped ........ 34
Wind Buffeting ....................... 34
Occupant Restraints ..................... 35
Lap/Shoulder Belts .................... 36
Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage . . . 44
Automatic Locking Restraint (ALR) Mode –
If Equipped ......................... 44
Center Lap Belts ...................... 45
Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System
(BeltAlert) ......................... 46
Seat Belts And Pregnant Women .......... 47
Seat Belt Extender ..................... 47
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
Driver And Right Front Passenger
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) –
Airbag ............................. 48
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .............. 57
Child Restraint ....................... 60
New Engine Break-In .................... 72
5.7L Gas Engine – 3500 Models Only ....... 72
Safety Tips ........................... 73
Exhaust System ...................... 73
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ............................. 74
Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle ............................. 75
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12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

The authorized dealer that sold you your vehicle has the key code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can be used to order duplicate keys from your authorized dealer. Ask your authorized dealer for these numbers and keep them in a safe place.
Ignition Key

Ignition Key Removal

Automatic Transmission
Place the shift lever in PARK. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position, and remove the key.
Ignition Switch Positions
1 — ACC (ACCESSORY) 4 — ON/RUN 2 — LOCK 5 — START 3 — OFF
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
NOTE:
If you try to remove the key before you place the shift lever in PARK, the key may become trapped tempo­rarily in the ignition cylinder. If this occurs, rotate the key to the right slightly, then remove the key as described. If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the key in the ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped but the key cannot be removed until you obtain service.
The power window switches, radio, power sunroof (if equipped), and power outlets will remain active for 10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned OFF. Opening either front door will cancel this feature.
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14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING!
Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seri­ously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the key in the ignition. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always remove key from the ignition and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

Locking Doors with the Key

You can insert the key with either side up. To lock the door, turn the key rearward. To unlock the door, turn the key forward. For door lock lubrication, see “Body Lubri­cation” in Section 7 of this manual.
STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle with­out the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved approximately a half turn in either direction and the key is not in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock.

If You Wish to Manually Lock the Steering Wheel

With the engine running, turn the steering wheel upside down, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock engages.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

To Release the Steering Wheel Lock

Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine. If the key is difficult to turn, move the wheel slightly to the right or left to disengage the lock.
NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.

SENTRY KEY

The Sentry KeyImmobilizer System prevents unautho­rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked.
The system uses ignition keys that have an embedded electronic chip (transponder) to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys that are pro­grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two seconds if someone uses an invalid key to try to start the engine.
NOTE: A key that has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key, even if it is cut to fit the ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle.
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16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
During normal operation, after turning on the ignition switch, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the Vehicle Security Light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used an invalid key to try to start the engine. Either of these conditions will result in the engine being shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10 sec­onds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
The Sentry KeyImmobilizer System is not compat­ible with some aftermarket remote starting systems.
Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection.
Exxon/Mobil Speedpass™, additional Sentry Keys, or any other transponder-equipped components on the same key chain will not cause a key-related (transponder) fault unless the additional part is physi- cally held against the ignition key being used when starting the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other Radio Frequency (RF) electronics will not cause inter­ference with this system.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics.

Replacement Keys

NOTE: Only keys that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle. Once a Sentry Keyis programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
CAUTION!
Always remove the Sentry Keysfrom the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unat­tended.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided with a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). Keep the PIN in a secure location. This number is required for authorized dealer replacement of keys. Du­plication of keys may be performed at an authorized dealer or by following the customer key programming procedure. This procedure consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle electronics. A blank key is one that has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry KeyImmobilizer System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer.

Customer Key Programming

If you have two valid Sentry Keys, you can program new Sentry Keysto the system by performing the following procedure:
1. Cut the additional Sentry KeyTransponder blank(s) to match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.
2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position for at least three seconds, but no longer than 15 seconds. Then, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the first key.
3. Insert the second valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds, a chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the second key.
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18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
4. Insert a blank Sentry Keyinto the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on again for three seconds and then turn off.
The new Sentry Keyis programmed. The Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter will also be pro­grammed during this procedure.
Repeat this procedure to program up to eight keys. If you do not have a programmed Sentry Key, contact your authorized dealer for details.
NOTE: If a programmed key is lost, see your authorized dealer to have all remaining keys erased from the sys­tem’s memory. This will prevent the lost key from starting your vehicle. The remaining keys must then be reprogrammed. All vehicle keys must be taken to an authorized dealer at the time of service to be reprogrammed.

General Information

The Sentry Keysystem complies with FCC rules Part 15 and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference that may be received, including interference that may cause undes­ired operation.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
VEHICLE SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
This Vehicle Security Alarm system monitors the vehicle doors and ignition for unauthorized operation. When the alarm is activated, the system provides both audible and visible signals. For the first three minutes the horn will sound and the headlights and security light will flash repeatedly. For an additional 15 minutes only, the head­lights and security light will flash. The engine will run only if a valid Sentry Keyis used to start the vehicle. Use of the Sentry Keywill disable the alarm.

Rearming of the System

The Vehicle Security Alarm system will rearm itself after the 15 additional minutes of headlights and security light 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 Vehicle Security Alarm will set when you use the power door locks, or use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to lock the doors. After all the doors are locked and closed, the Vehicle Security Light in the instrument cluster will flash rapidly to signal that the system is arming. The Vehicle 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 Vehicle Security Light will flash at a slower rate to indicate that the system is armed.
NOTE: If the Vehicle Security Light stays on continu­ously during vehicle operation, have the system checked by an authorized dealer.
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20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To Disarm the System

Use the RKE transmitter to unlock the door. If something has triggered the system in your absence, the horn will sound three times when you unlock the doors and the Vehicle Security Light will flash for 30 seconds. Check the vehicle for tampering.
The Vehicle Security Alarm system will also disarm if the vehicle is started with a programmed Sentry Key.Ifan unprogrammed Sentry Keyis used to start a vehicle, the engine will run for two seconds and then the Security Alarm will be initiated. To exit the alarming mode, press the RKE transmitter UNLOCK button, or start the vehicle with a programmed Sentry Key.
The Vehicle 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 RKE transmitter, the
alarm will sound when you pull the door handle to exit. The door will be locked, but the Vehicle Security Alarm system will not arm.
ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
The courtesy lights will turn on when you use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or open the doors. This feature is only available if you have Remote Keyless Entry.
The lights will fade to off after about 30 seconds, or they will immediately fade to off once the ignition switch is turned ON.
NOTE:
The front courtesy overhead console and door cour­tesy lights do not turn off if the dimmer control is in the interior lights on position (extreme top position).
The Illuminated Entry system will not operate if the dimmer control is in the extreme downward position.
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) — IF EQUIPPED
The system allows you to lock or unlock the doors from distances up to about 23 ft (7 m) using a Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. The RKE transmitter does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21
2
Three Button RKE Transmitter
1 — Lock 2 — Unlock
22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To Unlock the Doors

Press and release the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter once to unlock only the driver’s door or twice to unlock all the doors. When the UNLOCK button is pressed, the illuminated entry will initiate, the parking lights will flash on twice and, if installed, the cargo lamp will turn on for 30 seconds.
The system can be programmed to unlock all the doors or the driver’s door only upon the first UNLOCK button press by using the following procedure:
1. Perform this operation while standing outside the vehicle.
2. Press and hold the LOCK button on your RKE trans­mitter.
3. Continue to hold the LOCK button at least four seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the UNLOCK button while still holding the LOCK button.
4. Release both buttons at the same time.
5. This will allow you to unlock all doors on the first press of the UNLOCK button.
6. To reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.

To Lock the Doors

Press and release the LOCK button on the RKE 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.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23
The Horn Chirp feature is activated when shipped from the assembly plant. If desired, this feature can be disabled by using the following procedure:
1. Perform this operation while standing outside the vehicle.
2. Press and hold the LOCK button on a programmed (i.e., functional) RKE transmitter.
3. Continue to hold the LOCK button, wait at least four seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the PANIC button. Release both buttons at the same time.
4. To reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.
This vehicle is shipped from the assembly plant with the park lamp flash feature activated. If desired, this feature can be disabled by using the following procedure:
1. Perform this operation while standing outside the vehicle.
2. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on a programmed (i.e., functional) RKE transmitter.
3. Continue to hold the UNLOCK button, wait at least four seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the LOCK button. Release both buttons at the same time.
4. To reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.

Using the Panic Alarm

To activate the Panic Mode while the ignition is OFF, press and release the PANIC button on the RKE trans­mitter once. When the Panic Mode is activated, the interior lights will illuminate, the headlights and parking lights will flash, and the horn will sound.
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24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
To cancel the Panic Mode, press and release the PANIC button on the transmitter a second time, after five sec­onds. Panic Mode will automatically cancel after three minutes, or if the vehicle is started and exceeds 15 mph (24 km/h). During the Panic Mode, the door locks and RKE systems will function normally. Panic Mode will not disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm System on vehicles so equipped.

Programming Additional RKE Transmitters

Refer to “Sentry KeyProgramming” under “Sentry Key” in this section.
If you do not have a programmed RKE transmitter, contact your authorized 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 RKE transmitter fails to operate from a normal distance, check for these two conditions:
1. Weak batteries in RKE transmitter. The expected life of the batteries is from one to two years.
2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station tower, airport transmitter, and some mobile or CB radios.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25

RKE Transmitter Battery Service

1. With RKE transmitter buttons facing down, use a flat blade or dime to pry the two halves of the RKE transmit­ter apart. Make sure not to damage the rubber gasket during removal.
RKE Transmitter Battery Replacement
2. Remove and replace the battery. When replacing the battery, match the + sign on battery to the + sign on the inside of the battery clip, located on back cover. Avoid touching the new battery with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol.
3. To reassemble the RKE transmitter case, snap the two halves of the case together. Make sure there is an even “gap” between the two halves. If equipped, install and tighten the screw until snug. Test the RKE transmitter operation.
NOTE:
Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate
The recommended replacement battery is CR2032.
Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back housing or the printed circuit board.
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26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with a remote starting system, which will allow the vehicle to be started from distances up to approximately 300 ft (91 m) away from the vehicle using the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) trans­mitter, which is part of your ignition key.
In order to remote start your vehicle, the hood and all the doors must be closed.
Press and release the REMOTE START button on the RKE transmitter twice, within five sec­onds. The parking lights will flash and the horn
will honk twice (if programmed). Then, the engine will start and the vehicle will remain in the Remote Start mode for a 15-minute cycle.
To cancel remote start, press the REMOTE START button once.
The parking lamps will remain illuminated to indicate that the vehicle has remote started and the engine is
running. The lamps will turn off when the ignition is turned to RUN or the remote start is cancelled.
To enter the vehicle while the engine is running during a remote start, you must first unlock the vehicle using the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter. After the vehicle is unlocked, you have 15 minutes to enter the vehicle, insert the key in the ignition and move it to the RUN position, otherwise the engine will cancel remote start and automatically turn off.
Remote start will also cancel if any of the following occur:
The engine stalls or RPM exceeds 2500
Any engine warning lamps come on
The hood is opened
The hazard switch is pressed
The transmission is moved out of PARK
The brake pedal is pressed
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27
The vehicle can be started remotely up to a maximum of two times. The vehicle is also allowed a maximum of one failed start, where the remote start sequence was initiated but the engine stopped cranking without starting. After either of these conditions, or if the Vehicle Security Alarm is alarming, or if the PANIC button was pressed, the vehicle must be reset by inserting a valid key into the ignition and moving it to the RUN position, then back to LOCK.
DOOR LOCKS Manual Door 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.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the key in the ignition. A child could operate power win­dows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
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28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Power Door Locks — If Equipped
A power door lock switch is on each front door trim panel. Use this switch to lock or unlock the doors.
Power Door Lock Switch Location
If you press the power door lock switch while the key is in the ignition, and any front door is open, the power
locks will not operate. This prevents you from acciden­tally locking your keys in the vehicle. Removing the key or closing the door will allow the locks to operate. A chime will sound if the key is in the ignition switch and a door is open, as a reminder to remove the key.
Automatic Door Locks – If Equipped
If this feature is enabled, your door locks will lock automatically when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 15 mph (24 km/h).
Automatic Door Lock Programming
This feature is enabled when your vehicle is shipped from the assembly plant and can be disabled by using the following procedure:
1. Enter your vehicle and close all doors.
2. Fasten your seat belt. (Fastening the seat belt will cancel any chiming that may confuse you during this programming procedure.)
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