Dodge Ram Diesel Supplement 2012 Owner's Manual

2012
OWNER’S MANUAL
Ram Truck
INSTALLATION OF RADIO TRANSMITTING EQUIPMENT
Special design considerations are incorporated into this vehi­cle’s electronic system to provide immunity to radio frequency signals. Mobiletwo-way radios and telephone equipment must be installed properly by trained personnel. The following must be observed during installation.
The positive power connection should be made directly to the battery and fused as close to the battery as possible. The negative power connection should be made to body sheet metal adjacent to the negative battery connection. This con­nection should not be fused.
Antennas for two-way radios should be mounted on the roofor the rear area of the vehicle. Care should be used in mounting antennas with magnet bases. Magnets may affect the accu­racy or operation of the compass on vehicles so equipped.
The antenna cable should be as short as practical and routed away from the vehicle wiring when possible. Use only fully shielded coaxial cable.
Carefully match the antenna and cable to the radio to ensure a low Standing Wave Ratio (SWR).
Mobile radio equipment with output power greater than nor­mal may require special precautions.
All installations should be checked for possible interference between the communications equipment and the vehicle’s electronic systems.
SECTION PAGE
1
INTRODUCTION
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
3
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
4
STARTING AND OPERATING
5
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
6
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
7
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
8
INDEX
...................................................................163
TABLE OF CONTENTS
............................................................3
..............................7
...................................15
.................................................33
..............................................91
...............................................97
.................................................137
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

INTRODUCTION

CONTENTS
A Message From Chrysler Group LLC .........4
1
4 INTRODUCTION

A MESSAGE FROM CHRYSLER GROUP LLC

Chrysler Group LLC and Cumminswelcome you as a Cumminsturbocharged diesel-powered truck owner. Your diesel truck will sound, feel, drive, and operate differently from a gasoline-powered truck. It is important that you read and understand this manual.
Almost 100% of the heavy duty trucks in the United States and Canada are diesel-powered because of the fuel economy, rugged durability, and high torque which per­mits pulling heavy loads. Cumminsengines power well over half of these trucks. Now this same technology and proven performance is yours in your truck equipped with the Cumminsturbocharged diesel engine.
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.
NOTE: Some aftermarket products may cause severe engine/transmission and/or exhaust system damage. Your vehicle’s Powertrain Control Systems can detect and store information about vehicle modifications that increase horsepower and torque output such as whether or not performance-enhancing powertrain components, commonly referred to as downloaders, power boxes, or performance chips have been used.
This information cannot be erased and will stay in the system’s memory even if the modification is removed. This information can be retrieved by Chrysler Group LLC, and service and repair facilities, when servicing your vehicle. This information may be used to determine if repair will be covered by New Vehicle Limited War­ranty.
There is a probability that the use of a “performance chip” will prohibit the engine from starting. In this instance, the vehicle will need to be serviced by a authorized dealer in order to return the vehicle to it’s factory settings.
INTRODUCTION 5
1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS
Steering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ..........8
To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel .......8
To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........8
2
Remote Starting System — If Equipped ........8
How To Use Remote Start ................9
Engine Break-In Recommendations .......... 12
8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED

Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle with­out the key fob. If the steering wheel is moved approxi­mately a half turn in either direction and the key fob is not in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock.

To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel

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

To Release The Steering Wheel Lock

Insert the key fob into the ignition switch and start the engine. If the key fob 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.

REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

This system uses the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to start the engine conve­niently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of
approximately 328 ft (100 m).
NOTE:
The vehicle must be equipped with an automatic transmission to be equipped with Remote Start.
The remote start system will wait for the “Wait To Start Light” to extinguish before cranking the engine. This allows time for the intake heater to pre-heat the incoming air, and is normal operation in cold weather. Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information Center/EVIC Warning Lights” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information on and “Wait To Start Light” and pre-heat cycle.

How To Use Remote Start

All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will remote start:
Shift lever in PARK
Doors closed
Hood closed
HAZARD switch off
BRAKE switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 9
Ignition key removed from ignition switch
Battery at an acceptable charge level
RKE PANIC button not pressed
Fuel meets minimum requirement
Water In Fuel Indicator Light is not illuminated
Wait To Start Light is not illuminated
WARNING!
Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains Carbon Mon­oxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Car­bon Monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled.
(Continued)
2
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
Keep Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitters away from children. Operation of the Remote Start System, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.
Remote Start Abort Message On Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) – If Equipped
The following messages will display in the EVIC if the vehicle fails to remote start or exits remote start prema­turely:
Remote Start Aborted - Door Ajar
Remote Start Aborted - Hood Ajar
Remote Start Aborted - Fuel Low
Remote Start Aborted - System Fault
The EVIC message stays active until theignition is turned to the ON/RUN position.
To Enter Remote Start Mode
Press and release the REMOTE START button on the RKE transmitter twice, within five sec­onds. The parking lights will flashand the horn
will chirp twice (if programmed). In cold am­bient temperature conditions, the diesel vehicle may delay crank up to 30 seconds for the glow plugs or grid heater. Once the vehicle has started, the engine will run for 15 minutes.
NOTE:
The park lamps will turn on and remain on during Remote Start mode.
For security, power window and power sunroof op­eration (if equipped) are disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode.
The engine can be started two consecutive times (two 15-minute cycles) with the RKE transmitter. However, the ignition switch must be cycled to the ON position before you can repeat the start sequence for a third cycle.
To Exit Remote Start Mode Without Driving The Vehicle
Press and release the REMOTE START button one time or allow the engine to run for the entire 15-minute cycle.
NOTE: To avoid unintentional shut downs, the system will disable the one time press of the REMOTE START button for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
To Exit Remote Start Mode And Drive The Vehicle
Before the end of the 15-minute cycle, press and release the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter to unlock the doors and disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm System (if equipped). Insert the Key Fob into the ignition switch and turn the switch to the ON/RUN position.
NOTE:
The ignition switch must be in the ON/RUN position in order to drive the vehicle.
For vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), the message “Insert Key/ Turn To On” will flash in the EVIC until you insert the Key Fob into the ignition swich. Once inserted, the message “Turn To On” will flash in the EVIC until you turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position.
2
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Remote Start Comfort Systems – If Equipped
When remote start is activated, the heated steering wheel, and driver heated seat features will automatically turn on in cold weather. In warm weather, the driver vented seat feature will automatically turn on when the remote start is activated. These features will stay on through the duration of remote start or until the ignition switch is turned to the ON position.
The Remote Start Comfort System can be activated and deactivated through the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC). For more information on Remote Start Comfort System operation refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)/Customer-Programmable Features (System Setup)” in “Understanding Your Instru­ment Panel”.

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

The Cumminsturbocharged diesel engine does not require a break-in period due to its construction. Normal operation is allowed, providingthe following recommen­dations are followed:
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.
Check the coolant and oil levels frequently.
Vary throttle position at highway speeds when carry­ing or towing significant weight.
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.
For additional vehicle break-in requirements, refer to “Trailer Towing” in “Starting and Operating” of the Owners Manual.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
Because of the construction of the Cumminsturbo­charged 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).
2

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

CONTENTS
Instrument Cluster ..................... 16
3
EVIC Displays ....................... 28
Instrument Cluster Description ............. 17
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) . . . 27
Vehicle Information (Customer Information
Features) ........................... 32
16 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION

1. Tachometer
The tachometer indicates engine speed in revolutions per minute.
CAUTION!
Do not operate the engine with the tachometer pointer at high RPM for extended periods. Engine damage may occur.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 17
Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if either
indicator flashes at a rapid rate.
3. Fuel Gauge
Shows level of fuel in tank when ignition switch is in the ON position.
4. Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge shows engine coolant tempera­ture. Any reading within the normal range indicates that the engine cooling system is operating satisfactorily.
3
2. Turn Signal Indicator Light
The arrow will flash with the exterior turn signal when the turn signal lever is operated.
NOTE:
A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is driven more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either turn signal on.
The gauge pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera­ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal operating range.
18 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or others could be badly burned by steam or boiling coolant. You may want to call an authorized dealer­ship for service if your vehicle overheats.
5. Speedometer
The speedometer shows the vehicle speed in miles per hour and/or kilometers per hour (MPH/km/h).
6. 4LOW Indicator Light – If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the four-wheel drive LOW mode. The front and rear driveshafts are mechanically locked to-
gether forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. Low range provides a greater gear reduction ratio to provide increased torque at the wheels.
For vehicles equipped with a premium cluster this indi­cator will display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC). Refer to ”Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
7. 4WD Indicator Light – If Equipped
This light indicates the vehicle is in four-wheel drive and 4LOCK. 4WD allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultane­ously.
8. TOW/HAUL Indicator Light – If Equipped
The TOW HAUL button is located on the center stack switch bank. This light will illumi­nate when TOW HAUL mode is selected
9. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Indicator Light/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator Light – If Equipped
If the Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/
Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator Light
begins to flash during acceleration, ease up on
the accelerator and apply as little throttle as possible. This indicator light starts to flash as soon as the tires lose traction and the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) becomes active. The “ESC/TCS Indicator Light” also flashes when TCS is active. Be sure to adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road conditions. If the “ESC/TCS Indicator Light” is on solid, the ESC system has been turned off by the driver or a temporary condition exists that will not allow full ESC function.
10. Exhaust Brake Indicator Light
This light will illuminate when the exhaust brake has been turned on.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 19
11. Vehicle Security Light — If Equipped
This light will flash at a fast rate for approxi­mately 15 seconds, when the vehicle security alarm is arming, and then will flash slowly until the vehicle is disarmed.
12. Oil Pressure Gauge
The pointer should always indicate some oil pressure when the engine is running. A continuous high or low reading under normal driving conditions may indicate a lubrication system malfunction. Immediate service should be obtained from an authorized dealer.
13. Odometer/Trip Odometer Button
Press this button to toggle between the odometer and the trip odometer display. Holding the button in resets the trip odometer reading when in trip mode.
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20 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
14. Odometer/Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) Display
Odometer
The odometer shows the total distance the vehicle has been driven. U.S. federal regulations require that upon transfer of vehicle ownership, the seller certify to the purchaser the correct mileage that the vehicle has been driven. Therefore, if the odometer reading is changed during repair or replacement, be sure to keep a record of the reading before and after the service so that the correct mileage can be determined.
The two trip odometers show individual trip mileage. To switch from odometer to trip odometers, press and release the TRIP ODOMETER button.
To reset a trip odometer, display the desired trip odom­eter to be reset then push and hold the button for approximately two seconds until the display resets.
15. Shift Lever Indicator
This display indicator shows the transmission shift lever selection.
16. High Beam Indicator Light
This indicator shows that headlights are on high
beam. Push the multifunction lever forward to switch the headlights to high beam, and pull toward yourself (normal position) to return to low beam.
17. Voltmeter
When the engine is running, the gauge indicates the electrical system voltage. The pointer should stay within the normal range if the battery is charged. If the pointer moves to either extreme left or right and remains there during normal driving, the electrical system should be serviced.
NOTE: The voltmeter may show a gauge fluctuation at various engine temperatures. This cycling operation is caused by the post-heat cycle of the intake manifold heater system. The number of cycles and the length of the cycling operation is controlled by the engine control module. Post-heat operation can run for several minutes, and then the electrical system and voltmeter needle will stabilize.
18. Cargo Light
The cargo light will illuminate when the cargo light is activated by pressing the cargo light button on the headlight switch.
19. Brake Warning Light
This light monitors various brake functions, including brake fluid level and parking brake application. If the brake light turns on, it may
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 21
indicate that the parking brake is applied, that the brake fluid level is low, or that there is a problem with the Anti-Lock Brake System reservoir.
If the light remains on when the parking brake has been disengaged, and the fluid level is at the full mark on the master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a possible brake hydraulic system malfunction or that a problem with the Brake Booster has been detected by the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). In this case, the light will remain on until the condition has been corrected. If the problem is related to the brake booster, the ABS pump will run when applying the brake and a brake pedal pulsation may be felt during each stop.
The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capac­ity in the event of a failure to a portion of the hydraulic system. A leak in either half of the dual brake system is
3
22 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
indicated by the “Brake Warning Light,” which will turn on when the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has dropped below a specified level.
The light will remain on until the cause is corrected. NOTE: The light may flash momentarily during sharp
cornering maneuvers, which change fluid level condi­tions. The vehicle should have service performed, and the brake fluid level checked.
If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is neces­sary.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the “Brake Warning Light” on is dangerous. Part of the brake system may have failed. It will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have an accident. Have the vehicle checked immediately.
Vehicles equipped with the ABS, are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the “Brake Warning Light” will turn on along with the “ABS Warning Light.” Immediate repair to the ABS system is required.
Operation of the “Brake Warning Light” can be checked by turning the ignition switch from the OFF position to the ON position. The light should illuminate for approxi­mately two seconds. The light should then turn off unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is detected. If the light does not illuminate, have the light inspected by an authorized dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the ON position.
NOTE: This light shows only that the parking brake is applied. It does not show the degree of brake application.
20. Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Warning Light
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). The light will turn on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and may stay on for as long as four seconds.
If the “ABS Warning Light” remains on or turns on while driving, it indicates that the anti-lock portion of the brake system is not functioning and that service is required. However, the conventional brake system will continue to operate normally if the “Brake Warning Light” is not on.
If the “ABS Warning Light” is on, the brake system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the benefits of anti-lock brakes. If the “ABS Warning Light” does not turn on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, have the light inspected by an authorized dealer.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 23
21. Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light – If Equipped
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly, when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illumi­nates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to
3
24 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for
approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subse­quent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the sys­tem may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle, to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and warning have been established for the tire size equipped on your vehicle. Undesirablesystem opera­tion or sensor damage may result when using re­placement equipment that is not of the same size, type, and/or style. Aftermarket wheels can cause sensor damage. Do not use tire sealant from a can, or balance beads if your vehicle is equipped with a TPMS, as damage to the sensors may result.
NOTE: The TPMS telltale is also accompanied by a
“Low Tire” message in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) screen. Refer to “Starting and Operating/ Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)” in the Owner’s Manual for further information.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 25
22. Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of an onboard diagnostic (OBDII) system which
monitors the emissions and engine control sys­tem. If the vehicle is ready for emissions testing, the light will come on when the ignition is first turned on and remain on, as a bulb check, until the engine is started. If the vehicle is not ready for emissions testing the light will come on when the ignition is first turned on and remain on for 15 seconds, then blink for 5 seconds, and remain on until the vehicle is started. If the bulb does not come on during starting, have the condition investigated promptly.
If this light comes on and remains on while driving, it suggests a potential engine control problem and the need for system service.
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26 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Although your vehicle will usually be drivable and not need towing, see your authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.
24. Front Fog Light Indicator Light – If Equipped
This indicator will illuminate when the front fog lights are on.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause damage to the engine control system. It also could affect fuel economy and drivability.
23. Airbag Warning Light
This light turns on and remains on for six to eight seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first turned ON. If the light is not on
during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the system inspected by an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
25. Seat Belt Reminder Light
When the ignition switch is first turned ON, this light will turn on for five to eight seconds as a bulb
check. During the bulb check, if the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled, a chime will sound. After the bulb check or when driving, if the driver’s seat belt remains unbuckled, the seat belt reminder light will flash or remain on continuously. Refer to Occupant Restraints/ Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System (BeltAlert威)⬙ in “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” in the Owners Manual for further information.
26. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light indicates the Electronic Stability Con­trol (ESC) is off.

ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER (EVIC)

The Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) fea­tures a driver-interactive display that is located in the instrument cluster.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 27
3
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
NOTE: The compass on your vehicle is self-calibrating,
eliminating the need to manually calibrate the compass. This system conveniently allows the driver to select a
variety of useful information by pressing the switches mounted on the steering wheel.
28 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information Center – If Equipped” in the Owner’s Manual for further informa­tion.

EVIC Displays

When the appropriate conditions exist, the EVIC displays the following messages:
System Setup Unavailable – Vehicle Not in Park
System Setup Unavailable – Vehicle in Motion
Service Air Filter
Perform Service
Exhaust Filter XX% Full
Exhaust Filter Full – Power Reduced See Dealer
Exhaust Service Required – See Dealer Now
Exhaust System – Regeneration Required Now
Exhaust System – Regeneration In Process
Exhaust System – Regeneration Completed
Low DEF Refill Soon
Refill DEF Engine Will Not Start In XXX Miles
Refill DEF Engine Will Not Start
Service DEF System See Dealer
Service DEF Syst Engine Will Not Start in XXX Mi See Dealer
Service DEF System Engine Will Not Start See Dealer
Engine Power Reduced During Warmup
Engine Power Reduced up to 30-sec During Warmup
Engine Power Reduced up to 2-min During Warmup
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