Jeep Wrangler 2008 User Manual

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2008

OWNER’S MANUAL

Wrangler

SECTION PAGE

INTRODUCTION

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

STARTING AND OPERATING

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

...............................79

................................... 201

................................................. 267

...............................................363

............................................... 375

..................................................427

..........................................435

INDEX

....................................................................445

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

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

䡵 Rollover Warning ........................ 5

䡵 How To Use This Manual ..................6

䡵 Warnings And Cautions ................... 8

䡵 Vehicle Identification Number ...............8

䡵 Vehicle Modifications/Alterations ............ 8

4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

This is a specialized utility vehicle designed for both on-road and off-road use. It can go places and perform tasks for which conventional two-wheel drive enclosed vehicles were not intended. It handles and maneuvers differently from many passenger cars both on-road and off-road, so take time to become familiar with your vehicle.

The two-wheel drive utility vehicle was designed for on-road use only. It is not intended for off-road driving or use in other severe conditions suited for a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Before you start to drive this vehicle, read the Owner’s Manual. Be sure you are familiar with all vehicle controls, particularly those used for braking, steering, transmission, and transfer case shifting. Learn how your vehicle handles on different road surfaces. Your driving skills will improve with experience. When driving off-road or

working the vehicle, don’t overload the vehicle or expect the vehicle to overcome the natural laws of physics. Always observe federal, state, provincial and local laws wherever you drive.

As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an accident. Refer to “On-Road/Off-Road Driving Tips” in Section 5 of this manual.

This 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.

INTRODUCTION 5

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 authorized dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained technicians and genuine MOPAR威 parts, and is interested in your satisfaction.

ROLLOVER WARNING

Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. This vehicle has a higher ground clearance, higher center of gravity, and narrower track than many passenger cars. It is capable of performing better in a wide variety of off-road applications. Driven in an unsafe manner, all vehicles can be caused to go out of control. Because of the higher center of gravity and the narrower track, if this vehicle is out of control it may roll over when some other vehicles may not.

Operating this vehicle at excessive speeds or while intoxicated may result in loss of control, collision with other vehicles or objects, going off the road, or overturning, any of which may lead to serious injury or death. Also, failure to use standard seat belts subjects the driver and passengers to a greater risk of being thrown out of an open-body vehicle than out of a closed vehicle in an accident which can result in injury or death.

Although your vehicle may be equipped with a soft top or optional hard top to give the occupants protection from the weather, these tops do not offer structural protection in the event of an accident and do not change the open-body characteristic of the vehicle. Even though your vehicle has a sport bar and side bars for some extra protection, it is a truly open vehicle-there is no structural integrated top and it has low sides and a folding windshield. Many of these vehicles do not have fully enclosed hard doors.

6 INTRODUCTION

Do not attempt sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers or other unsafe driving actions that can cause loss of vehicle control. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result in an accident, rollover of the vehicle and serious injury or death. Because of its open-body construction, your vehicle offers less protection than closed vehicles in the event of an accident.

Rollover Warning Label

Failure to use driver and passenger seat belts provided

is a major cause of severe or fatal injury. In fact, the U.S. government notes that the universal use of existing seat belts could cut the highway death toll by 10,000 or more each year, and could reduce disabling injuries by two million annually. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seal belt. Always buckle up.

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 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 7

8 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.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is found on a stamped plate located on the left front corner of the instrument panel pad, visible from outside of the vehicle through the windshield. This number also appears on the Automobile Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on your vehicle. Save this label for a convenient record of your vehicle identification number and optional equipment.

NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS

WARNING!

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

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

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

▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................14

䡵 Steering Wheel Lock .....................14

▫ To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel .......14

▫ To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........14

䡵 Sentry Key威 ...........................14

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

▫ Customer Key Programming ..............16

▫ General Information ....................17

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

▫ To Set The Alarm ......................18

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

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

䡵 Remote Keyless Entry — If Equipped .........19

▫ To Unlock The Doors And Swing Gate .......20

▫ To Lock The Doors And Swing Gate .........20

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

10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

▫ To Turn Off “Flash Lights With Lock” ........21

▫ Programming Additional Transmitters ........22

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

▫ Battery Replacement ....................24

䡵 Remote Starting System — If Equipped ........25

䡵 Doors ................................26

▫ Upper Half Door Window Removal

(If Equipped) .........................27

▫ Upper Half Door Window Installation

(If Equipped) .........................27

▫ Front Door Removal ....................28

▫ Rear Door Removal (Four-Door Models) ......29

䡵 Door Locks ............................31

▫ Manual Door Locks .....................32

▫ Power Door Locks — If Equipped ..........33

▫ Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit ...........34

▫ Automatic Door Locks ...................35

䡵 Windows .............................36

▫ Power Windows — If Equipped ............36

▫ Rear Power Windows (Four-Door

Models Only) .........................37

▫ Wind Buffeting ........................38

䡵 Rear Swing Gate ........................38

䡵 Occupant Restraints ......................40

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................41

▫ Rear Center Lap/Shoulder Belt Retractor

Lock-Out (Four-Door Models Only) .........46

▫ Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....47

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11

▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................48

▫ Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System

(BeltAlert威) ..........................49

▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............50

▫ Seat Belt Extender ......................50

▫ Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental

Restraint Systems (SRS) ..................51

▫ Child Restraint ........................62

䡵 Engine Break-In Recommendations ...........75

䡵 Safety Tips ............................75

▫ Exhaust Gas ..........................75

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The

Vehicle ..............................76

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The

Vehicle ..............................77

12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

The keys for your new vehicle are enclosed in a plastic bag with the key code number on it. If you received your keys without the bag, ask your authorized dealer to give you the number. The key code can also be obtained by your authorized dealer from your vehicle invoice.

Ignition Key Removal

Manual Transmission — If Equipped

1. Turn the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY (ACC) position.

Ignition Key Positions

2. Push the ignition key inward.

3. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position, and remove the key.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13

Automatic Transmission — If Equipped

1. Place the shift lever in the PARK position.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ACC position.

Ignition Key Positions

3. Push the ignition key inward.

4. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position, and remove the key.

WARNING!

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

CAUTION!

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

14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

Opening the driver’s door when the key is in the ignition, sounds a signal to remind you to remove the key.

STEERING WHEEL LOCK

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

To Manually Lock the Steering Wheel

With the engine running, rotate the steering wheel one– half revolution from the straight ahead position, turn off the engine, and remove the key. Rotate the steering wheel slightly in both directions until the lock engages.

To Release the Steering Wheel Lock

Insert the key in the ignition, and turn the wheel slightly to the left or right, 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姞

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

The system uses ignition keys 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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

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.

During normal operation, after turning on the ignition switch, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator 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 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 Alarm Indicator Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for

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

NOTE:

•

The Sentry Key威 Immobilizer 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威, 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 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.

16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Replacement Keys

NOTE: Only keys that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle. Once a Sentry Key威 is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle.

CAUTION!

Always remove the Sentry Keys威 from 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 Key威 Immobilizer System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer.

Customer Key Programming

If you have two valid Sentry Keys威, you can program new Sentry Keys威 to the system by performing the following procedure:

1. Cut the additional Sentry Key威 Transponder 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

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 Alarm Indicator Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the second key.

4. Insert a blank Sentry Key威 into 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 Alarm Indicator Light will stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will turn on again for three seconds and then turn off.

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

•

This device may not cause harmful interference.

18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

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

SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

This system monitors the vehicle doors, swing gate, and ignition for unauthorized operation. When the alarm is activated, the system provides both audible and visible signals. The horn, headlights, and tail lights will sound/ flash repeatedly for three minutes. If disturbance is still present (driver’s door, passenger door, other doors, ignition) after three minutes, the headlights and tail lights will flash for an additional 15 minutes.

NOTE: The Panic and Security alarms are quite different. Please take a moment to activate the Panic and the Security modes to hear the differences in the horn. In case one should go off in the future, you will need to know which mode has been activated in order to deactivate it.

To Set the Alarm

The alarm will set when you use the remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter to lock the doors and swing gate, or when you use the power door lock switch while the door is open. After all the doors are locked and closed, the Sentry Key威/Security Alarm Indicator Light (located on the instrument cluster) will flash rapidly for about 16 seconds to signal that the system is arming. During this 16–second arming period, opening any door or the swing gate will cancel the arming. If the system successfully arms, the Sentry Key威/Security Alarm Indicator Light will flash at a slower rate to indicate the alarm is set.

To Disarm the System

To disarm the system, you will need to press the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter, or turn the ignition key to the ON position. If something has triggered the system in your absence, the horn will sound three times when you unlock the doors. Check the vehicle for tampering.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19

The Security 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, once the system is armed (after 16 seconds), when you pull the door handle to exit, the alarm will sound. If this occurs, press the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter to disarm the system. You may also accidentally disarm the system by unlocking the driver’s door with the key and then locking it. The door will be locked but the Security Alarm will not arm.

ILLUMINATED ENTRY

The interior lights will come on when you open any door.

The lights will remain on after all of the doors are closed, and then fade to off or they will immediately fade to off once the ignition switch is turned on.

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY — IF EQUIPPED

Remote Keyless Entry (Key Fob)

This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors, swing gate, and activate the panic alarm from a maximum distance of 66 ft (20 m) using a hand-held radio transmitter (key fob). The RKE transmitter does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system.

20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

To Unlock the Doors and Swing Gate

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

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

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

2. Continue to hold the LOCK button for at least four seconds, but not longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the UNLOCK button.

3. Release both buttons at the same time.

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

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

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

To Lock the Doors and Swing Gate

Press and release the LOCK button on the key fob to lock all doors. The turn signals will flash and the horn will chirp once to acknowledge the lock signal. If desired, the “Sound Horn On Lock” feature can be turned on or off using the following steps:

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21

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

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

Using The Panic Alarm

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

The panic alarm will stay on for three minutes unless you turn it off by pressing the PANIC button a second time, or if the vehicle speed is 5 mph (8 km/h) or greater.

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

To Turn Off “Flash Lights With Lock”

NOTE: The “Flash Lights With Lock” feature can be turned on or off using the following steps:

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

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

3. Test the “Flash Lights With Lock” feature outside of the vehicle, by pressing the LOCK button with the ignition in the LOCK position, and the key removed.

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

The “Flash Lights With Lock” feature can be reactivated by repeating this procedure.

22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Programming Additional Transmitters

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

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

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

1. Enter the vehicle and close all of the 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 ignition key into the ignition.

4. Turn the ignition to the ON position. Do not start the

engine.

5. Press and hold the UNLOCK button.

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

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

8. Using the key fob to be programmed, press and release both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons, simultaneously.

9. A single chime will be heard.

10. Within four seconds of hearing the chime, press and release the UNLOCK button.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23

11. A single chime will be heard.

12. Repeat steps 8 through 10 to program up to six additional key fobs.

13. Turn the ignition to the OFF position.

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

NOTE: If you do not have a programmed RKE key fob, 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 Remote Keyless Entry fails to operate from a normal distance, check for these two conditions.

1. Weak batteries in the RKE key fob. The expected life of batteries is five years.

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

24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Battery Replacement

The recommended replacement battery is CR2032.

NOTE: Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply; See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/ perchlorate.

1. If the key fob is equipped with a screw, remove the screw. With the key fob buttons facing down, use a flat blade (screwdriver) to pry the two halves of the transmitter apart. Use extreme care not to damage the seal or internal components.

Separating RKE Key Fob Halves

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

3. To reassemble the key fob case, snap the two halves together.

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25

REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

Your vehicle may be equipped with a remote starting system (automatic transmission models only), 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 key fob which is part of your ignition key.

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

To remote start your vehicle, press the “Remote Start” button on the key fob twice within five seconds. To indicate that the vehicle is about to start, the park lights will flash and the horn will sound briefly (if programmed).

Remote Start Key Fob

Once the vehicle has started, the engine will run for 15 minutes. To cancel remote start, press the “Remote Start” button once.

26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The park 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 key fob. Then, prior to the end of the 15 minute cycle, insert the key into the ignition switch and turn the switch to the ON position, otherwise the engine will cancel remote start and automatically turn off.

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

•

If the engine stalls or RPM exceeds 2500

•

Any engine warning lamps come on

•

The hood is opened

•

The hazard switch is pressed

•

The transmission is moved out of PARK

The 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 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.

DOORS

The vacuum fluorescent (VF) display located in the odometer area will display the word “door” as an indication of a door ajar or not completely closed. When the vehicle is not moving and the door is ajar or not completely closed, the VF display will show the word “door.”

If any other active warnings including “gATE”, “gASCAP”, “noFUSE”, “CHANgE OIL”, or “ESPOFF” are present, they will be shown in the VF display and will also continue to cycle. If the vehicle is moving, three single chimes will occur, one chime for each complete display cycle (three cycles total). After this, the display will continue to cycle only (no chimes).

If the trip/reset button is pressed while the VF warnings are being displayed, the VF display will revert back to only displaying the odometer/trip odometer mileage.

Upper Half Door Window Removal (If Equipped)

1. Grasp the half door window and pull up.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27

Upper Half Door Window

Upper Half Door Window Installation (If Equipped)

1. Grasp the half door window and line up pins into pockets in lower door.

28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

2. Push down to ensure the half door window is fully seated.

Front Door Removal

1. Remove the hinge pin screws from the upper and lower outside hinges (using a #T50 Torx威 head driver).

2. Unplug the wiring harness connector under instrument panel.

1 — Harness Connector 2 — Body Hook 3 — Door/Harness Strap

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29

3. Unhook the door strap from the body hook. Be careful not to allow the door to swing fully open as the mirror may damage paint.

4. With the door open, lift the door to clear hinge pins from their hinges, and remove door.

To reinstall the door(s), perform the previous steps in the opposite order.

Rear Door Removal (Four-Door Models)

1. Remove the hinge pin screws from the upper and lower outside hinges (using a #T50 Torx威 head driver).

2. Slide the front seat(s) fully forward.

30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3. Remove the trim access door from the bottom of B-pillar.

5. Unhook the door strap from the body hook.

4. Unplug the wiring harness connector.

6. With the door open, lift the door to clear hinge pins from their hinges, and remove door.

To reinstall the door(s), perform the previous steps in the opposite order.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31

DOOR LOCKS

The vacuum fluorescent (VF) display located in the odometer area displays the word “door” as an indication of a door ajar or door not completely closed. When the vehicle is not moving and the door is ajar or not completely closed, the VF display will show the word “door.”

If the trip/reset button is pressed while the VF warnings are being displayed, the VF display will revert back to only displaying the odometer/trip odometer mileage.

NOTE: The ignition key that is used to start the vehicle is used to lock or unlock the doors, swing gate, and console storage.

32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Manual Door Locks

The front (two-door models) and rear doors (four-door models) are equipped with a rocker-type interior door lock. To lock the door when leaving your vehicle, press the Lock position and close the door.

Manual Door Lock

WARNING!

•

For personal security reasons and safety in 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. Do not leave the key in the ignition. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33

Power Door Locks — If Equipped

The door lock switch is located on each front door panel. Press the switch downward to lock the doors, and upward to unlock the doors.

Power Door Lock Switch

WARNING!

•

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

•

34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit

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

1. The “Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit” feature is enabled

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

3. The transmission is in NEUTRAL or PARK

4. The driver door is opened

5. The doors were not previously unlocked

6. The vehicle speed is 0 mph (0 km/h).

Automatic Unlock Doors on Exit Programming

The “Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit” feature can be enabled or disabled as follows:

1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition.

2. Cycle the ignition switch between LOCK and ON and then back to LOCK four times ending up in the LOCK position.

3. Depress the power door unlock switch to unlock the doors.

4. A single chime will indicate the completion of the programming.

5. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting.

NOTE: Use the “Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit” feature in accordance with local laws.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35

Automatic Door Locks

The doors will lock automatically on vehicles with power door locks if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The “Automatic Door Locks” feature is enabled

2. The transmission is in gear

3. All doors are closed

4. The throttle is pressed

5. The vehicle speed is above 15 mph (24 km/h)

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

Automatic Door Locks Programming

The “Automatic Door Locks” feature can be enabled or disabled as follows:

1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition.

2. Cycle the ignition switch between LOCK and ON and then back to LOCK four times ending up in the LOCK position.

3. Depress the power door lock switch to lock the doors.

4. A single chime will indicate the completion of the programming.

5. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting.

NOTE: Use the “Automatic Door Locks” feature in accordance with local laws.

36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WINDOWS Power Windows — If Equipped

The power window switches are located on the instrument panel center stack (below the radio). The top left switch controls the left front window and the top right switch controls the right front window. The lower left switch controls the left rear passenger window (fourdoor models), and the lower right switch controls the right rear passenger window (four-door models). The switches will continue to function for up to two minutes after the ignition key has been removed, or until a front door is opened.

Power Window Switches

Window Lockout Switch (Four-Door Models Only)

The window lockout switch (located between the window switches) allows you to disable the rear window switches that are located on the back of the center floor

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37

console. To disable the window controls, press the window lockout button downward. To enable the window controls, press the window lockout button upward.

Auto Down

Both the driver and front passenger window switches have an “Auto Down” feature. Press the window switch past the first detent, release, and the window will go down automatically. To cancel the “Auto Down” movement, operate the switch in either the up or down direction and release the switch.

To stop the window from going all the way down during the “auto down” operation, pull up on the switch briefly.

To open the window part way, press to the first detent and release it when you want the window to stop.

The power window switches remain active for two minutes after the ignition has been turned off. Opening either front door will cancel this feature.

Rear Power Windows (Four-Door Models Only)

The rear passenger window switches are located on the back of the center floor console.

Rear Power Window Switches (Four-Door Models)

38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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 in certain open or partially open positions. This is a normal occurrence and can be minimized by adjusting window opening.

REAR SWING GATE

The vacuum fluorescent (VF) display located in the odometer area displays the word “gATE” as an indication of when the swing gate is not completely closed. When the vehicle is not moving, and the swing gate is not completely closed, the VF display will show the word “gATE.”

If any other active warnings are present, they will be shown in the VF display and will also continue to cycle. If the vehicle is moving, three single chimes will occur if the rear swing gate is open (one chime for each complete display cycle). After this, the VF display will continue to sequence only (no chimes).

If the trip/reset button is pressed while the VF warnings are being displayed, the VF display will revert back to only displaying the odometer/trip odometer mileage.

The swing gate can be unlocked by using the key, remote keyless entry (RKE) key fob, or by activating the power door lock switches located on the front doors.

To open the swing gate, press the button on the gate handle.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39

CAUTION!

Gate Handle

NOTE: Close the rear flip-up window before attempting

to close the swing gate (hard top models only).

Do not press on rear wiper blade when closing the rear flip-up window, as damage to the blade will result.

WARNING!

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

40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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 side airbags (if equipped) for both the driver and front passenger. If you will be carrying children too small for adult-size belts, your seat belts can also be used to hold infant and child restraint systems.

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

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 injuries, including fatalities, 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41

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 to reduce or prevent injuries.

Lap/Shoulder Belts

All seating positions in your vehicle 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 using a seat belt properly.

42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

•

Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seat belts are designed to go around the large bones of your body. These are the strongest parts of your body and take the forces of a collision the best. Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make your injuries in a collision much worse. You might suffer internal injuries, or you could even slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instructions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep your passengers safe, too.

•

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

Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions

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

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

Latch Plate

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43

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

Latch Plate To Buckle

44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

A belt that is buckled into the wrong buckle will not protect you properly. The lap portion could ride too high on your body, possibly causing internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

A belt that is 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. 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 the 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.

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.

NOTE: The Seat Belt Indicator Light will remain on until the driver’s seat belt is buckled.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45

WARNING!

Removing Slack From Belt

A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as possible and keep it snug.

A twisted belt cannot do its job as well. In a collision it could even cut into you. Be sure the belt is straight. If you cannot straighten a belt in your vehicle, take it to your authorized 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.

46 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.).

Rear Center Lap/Shoulder Belt Retractor Lock-Out (Four-Door Models Only)

This feature is designed to lock the retractor whenever the 60% rear seatback is not fully latched. This prevents someone from wearing the rear center lap/shoulder belt when the rear seatback is not fully latched.

NOTE:

•

If the rear center lap/shoulder belt cannot be pulled out, check that the rear seatback is fully latched.

•

If the rear seatback is properly latched and the rear center lap/shoulder belt still cannot be pulled out, the Automatic-Locking Retractor (ALR) system may be activated. To reset this feature you must let all of the belt webbing return into the retractor. You will not be able to pull out more webbing until all of the webbing has been returned back into the retractor.

WARNING!

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 47

The rear center lap/shoulder belt is equipped with a lock-out feature to ensure that the rear seatback is in the fully upright and locked position when occupied. If the rear seatback is not fully upright and locked and the rear center lap/shoulder belt can be pulled out of the retractor, the vehicle should immediately be taken to your authorized dealer for service. Failure to follow this warning could result in serious or fatal injury.

Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage

In the front seat positions, the shoulder belt anchorage can be adjusted upward or downward to position the belt away from your neck. Push in on the anchorage near your outside shoulder and slide it up or down to reach the position that serves you best.

Adjusting Upper Shoulder Belt

48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

Position the shoulder belt height adjusters so that the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. Failure to adjust the safety belt properly could reduce the effectiveness of the seat belt and increase the risk of injury in a collision.

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.

Seat Belt Pretensioners

The driver and front passenger seat belts are equipped with a pretensioning device that is designed to remove any slack from the seat belt systems in the event of a collision. This device improves the performance of the seat belt by assuring that the belt is tight around the occupant early in a collision. Pretensioners work for all size occupants, including those in child restraints.

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

The pretensioners are triggered by the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) Module. Like the front airbags, the pretensioners are a single use item. After a collision that is severe enough to deploy the airbags and pretensioners, they must be replaced.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49

Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System (BeltAlert姞)

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威) will alert the driver to buckle the seat belt. The driver should also instruct all other occupants to buckle their seat belts. Once the warning is triggered, the Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert威) 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威) 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威) 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. The manufacturer does not recommend deactivating the Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert威).

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

2. Turn the ignition key to the ACC/RUN position (engine does not need to be running), and wait for the Seat Belt Warning Light to turn off.

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

4. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position. A single chime will sound to signify that you have successfully completed the programming.

50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

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

Seat Belts And Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use seat belts throughout their pregnancy. Keeping the mother safe is the best way to keep the baby safe.

Pregnant women should wear the lap part of the belt across the thighs and as snug across the hips as possible. Keep the belt low so that it does not come across the abdomen. That way the strong bones of the hips will take the force if there is a collision.

Seat Belt Extender

If a seat belt is too short, even when fully extended and when the adjustable upper shoulder belt anchorage (if equipped) is in its lowest position, your authorized dealer can provide you with a seat belt extender. This extender should be used only if the existing belt is not long enough. When it is not required, remove the extender and store it.

WARNING!

Using a seat belt extender when not needed can increase the risk of injury in a collision. Only use when the seat belt is not long enough when it is worn low and snug, and in the recommended seating positions. Remove and stow the seat belt extender when not needed.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51

Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS)

1 — Driver Airbag 2 — Passenger Airbag 3 — Knee Bolster

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

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

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

52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

If the vehicle is equipped with side airbags, they are located inside the driver and front passenger seats, and their covers are also labeled SRS.

Side Airbag Location

NOTE: Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior

trim; but they will open to allow airbag deployment.

WARNING!

• Do not put anything on or around the front airbag covers or attempt to manually open them. You may damage the airbags and you could be injured because the airbags are no longer functional. These protective covers for the airbag cushions are designed to open only when the airbags are inflating.

• If your vehicle is equipped with side airbags, do not use accessory seat covers or place objects between you and the side airbags; the performance could be adversely affected and/or objects could be pushed into you, causing serious injury.

• If your vehicle is equipped with side airbags, do not attach cup holders or any other objects on or around the door. The inflating side airbag could drive the objects into occupants, causing serious injury.

• Do not cover or place items on the airbag covers. These items may cause serious injury during inflation.

• Do not store or place items under the front seats. You may damage the airbag wiring harnesses.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53

The front airbags have a multistage inflator design. This allows the airbag to have different rates of inflation that are based on collision severity. Along with the seat belts, front airbags work with the instrument panel knee bolsters to provide improved protection for the driver and front passenger. Side airbags also work with seat belts to improve occupant protection.

The seat belts are designed to protect you in many types of collisions. The front airbags deploy in moderate to severe frontal collisions.

If your vehicle is so equipped, the side airbag 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 take to minimize the risk of harm from a deploying airbag.

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

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

Children that are not big enough to properly wear the vehicle seat belt should be secured in the rear seat, in a child restraint or belt-positioning booster seat. Older children who do not use child restraints or beltpositioning 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.

If a child from 1 to 12 years old must ride in the front passenger seat because the vehicle is crowded, move the

54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

seat as far back as possible, and use the proper child restraint. Refer to “Child Restraint” in this section.

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

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

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

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

5. If the airbag system in this vehicle needs to be modified to accommodate a disabled person, contact the Customer Center. Phone numbers are provided under “If You Need Assistance” in Section 9 of this manual.

WARNING!

•

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

•

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

•

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55

Airbag System Components

The airbag system consists of the following:

•

Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) Module

•

Airbag Warning Light

•

Driver Airbag

•

Passenger Airbag

•

Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (If Equipped)

•

Steering Wheel and Column

•

Instrument Panel

•

Interconnecting Wiring

•

Knee Impact Bolsters

•

Front Acceleration Sensors

•

Remote Side Impact Acceleration Sensors (If Equipped)

•

Driver Seat Track Position Sensors

•

Driver and Front Passenger Seat Belt Pretensioner

How The Airbag System Works

The Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) Module de-

•

termines if a frontal or side collision is severe enough to require the front and/or side airbags to inflate. The front airbag inflators are designed to provide different rates of airbag inflation from direction provided by the ORC.

The ORC also monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all of the items listed above except the knee bolster, the instrument panel, and the steering wheel and column. If the key is in the LOCK position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition, the airbags are not on and will not inflate.

56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Also, the ORC turns on the Airbag Warning Light for six to eight seconds for a self-check when the ignition is first turned on. After the

self-check, the Airbag Warning Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the Airbag Warning Light either momentarily or continuously. A single chime will sound if the light comes on again after initial start up.

WARNING!

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

•

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

The driver front airbag gas is vented through the vent holes in the sides of the airbag. The passenger front airbag gas is vented through the vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this way, the airbags do not interfere with your control of the vehicle.

•

The Side Impact (SRS) Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (If Equipped) are designed to activate only in certain

side collisions.

The ORC determines if a side collision is severe enough to require the side airbags to inflate.

The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all of the items previously mentioned.

In moderate to severe side collisions, the side airbag inflator on the crash side of the vehicle is triggered, releasing a quantity of nontoxic gas. The inflating side airbag exits through the seat seam into the space between the occupant and the door. The side airbag moves at a very high speed and with such a high force, that it could injure you if you are not seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area where the side airbag inflates. This especially applies to children.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57

•

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

If A Deployment Occurs

The airbag system is designed to deploy when the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) Module detects a moderate-to-severe frontal collision, to help restrain the driver and front passenger, and then to immediately 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

58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals. They are not permanent and normally heal quickly. However, if you haven’t healed significantly within a few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately.

•

As the airbags deflate you may see some smoke-like particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the process that generates the nontoxic gas used for airbag inflation. These airborne particles may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin or eye irritation, rinse the area with cool water. For nose or throat irritation, move to fresh air. If the irritation continues, see your doctor. If these particles settle on your clothing, follow the garment manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.

•

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

WARNING!

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59

Enhanced Accident Response Feature

If the airbags deploy after an impact and the electrical system remains functional, vehicles equipped with power door locks will unlock automatically. The hazard lights will flash and the fuel will be cut off to the engine. In addition, after the vehicle has stopped moving, the interior lights will illuminate to aid visibility and remain lit until the ignition switch is turned off.

NOTE: The interior lights can only be deactivated if the key is removed from the ignition switch or the vehicle is driven.

Maintaining Your Airbag System

WARNING!

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

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

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

60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply, See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/ perchlorate.

Airbag Warning Light

You will want to have the airbag system ready to inflate for your protection in an impact. The airbag system is designed to be maintenance free. If any of the following occurs, have an authorized dealer service the system promptly:

•

Does not come on during the six to eight seconds after the ignition switch is first turned on.

•

Remains on after the six to eight second interval.

•

Comes on for any period of time while driving.

Event Data Recorder (EDR)

In the event of an accident, your vehicle is designed to record up to five seconds of specific vehicle data parameters (see the following list) in an event data recorder

prior to the moment of airbag deployment, and up to a quarter-second of high-speed deceleration data during and/or after airbag deployment or near-deployment. EDR data are ONLY recorded if an airbag deploys, or nearly deploys, and are otherwise unavailable.

NOTE:

•

Under certain circumstances, EDR data may not be recorded (e.g., loss of battery power).

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61

In the event that an investigation is undertaken by DaimlerChrysler Corporation (regardless of initiative), the company, or its designated representative, will first obtain permission of the appropriate custodial entity for the vehicle (usually the vehicle owner or leasee) before accessing the electronic data stored, unless ordered to download data by a court with legal jurisdiction (i.e., pursuant to a warrant). A copy of the data will be provided to the custodial entity upon request. General data that does not identify particular vehicles or crashes may be released for incorporation in aggregate crash databases, such as those maintained by the U.S. government and various states. Data of a potentially sensitive nature, such as would identify a particular driver, vehicle, or crash, will be treated confidentially. Confidential data will not be disclosed by DaimlerChrysler Corporation to any third party except when:

1. Used for research purposes, such as to match data with a particular crash record in an aggregate database, provided confidentiality of personal data is thereafter preserved

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

3. Requested by police under a legal warrant

4. Otherwise required by law

Data Parameters that May Be Recorded:

•

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

•

Airbag disable lamp status (if equipped)

•

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

62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

Airbag deployment level (if applicable)

•

Impact acceleration and angle

•

Seat belt status

•

Brake status (service and parking brakes)

•

Accelerator status (including vehicle speed)

•

Engine control status (including engine speed)

•

Transmission gear selection

•

Cruise control status

•

Traction/stability control status

•

Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) status

Child Restraint

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

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

There are different sizes and types of restraints for children from newborn size to the child almost large enough for an adult safety belt. Always check the child seat owner’s manual to ensure you have the correct seat for your child. Use the restraint that is correct for your child.

WARNING!

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

Infants and Child Restraints

•

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63

•

The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the vehicle. It is recommended for children who weigh up to about 20 lbs (9 kg). “Convertible” child seats often have a higher weight limit in the rearward-facing direction than infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing by children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) but are less than one year old. Both types of child restraints are held in the vehicle by the lap/ shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system (Refer to LATCH — Child Seat Anchorage System in this section.)

•

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

64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

•

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

•

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

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

•

Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety

Standards. The manufacturer also recommends that you try a child restraint in the vehicle seats where you will use it before you buy it.

•

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

•

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

•

All seating positions (except for driver) have a automatic locking retractor identified by a distinctive label. The seat belts are designed to keep the lap portion tight around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to use a locking clip. For the seat belt with the automatic locking retractor, pull the belt from the retractor until there is enough to allow you to pass through the child restraint and slide the latch plate into the buckle. Then, pull the belt until it is fully

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65

extracted from the retractor. Allow the belt to return to the retractor, pulling on the excess webbing to tighten the lap portion about the child restraint. For additional information, refer to ⬙Automatic Locking Mode⬙ earlier in this section.

•

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 cannot 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 cannot make the child restraint secure, try a different seating position.

•

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

•

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

NOTE: For additional information refer to www.seatcheck.org or call 1-866-SEATCHECK.

Older Children and Child Restraints

Children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) and who are older than one year can ride forward-facing in the vehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible child seats used in the forward-facing direction, are for children who weigh 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg), and who are older than one year. These child seats are also held in the

66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system (Refer to LATCH — Child Seat Anchorage System in this section).

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

Children Too Large for Booster Seats

Children who are large enough to wear the shoulder belt comfortably, and whose legs are long enough to bend over the front of the seat when their back is against the seatback, should use the lap/shoulder belt in a rear seat.

•

Make sure that the child is upright in the seat.

•

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

•

Check belt fit periodically. A child’s squirming or slouching can move the belt out of position.

•

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

Automatic-Locking Retractor (ALR)

To operate the switchable retractor, 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 fully extended from the retractor. Allow the belt to return into the retractor, pulling on the excess webbing to tighten the lap portion about the child restraint. Follow the instructions of the child restraint manufacture.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67

NOTE: To reset this feature you must let all of the belt webbing return into the retractor. You will not be able to pull out more webbing until all of the webbing has been returned back into the retractor.

Installing the Child Restraint System

We urge you to 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 for attachment to the lower anchorage, and a means for adjusting the tension of the strap. Forwardfacing toddler restraints and some rearward-facing infant restraints will also be equipped with a tether strap having a hook for attachment to the tether strap anchorage, and a means for adjusting the tension of the strap.

In general, you will first loosen the adjusters on the lower and tether straps so that you can more easily attach the hook or connector to the lower and tether anchorages.

The tether strap should be routed under the center of the head restraint and attached to the tether anchor on the rear of the seatback. 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.

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

WARNING!

An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead to increased head motion and possible injury to the child. Use only the anchor position directly behind the child seat to secure a child restraint top tether strap.

68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

Your vehicle’s rear seat is equipped with the child restraint anchorage system called LATCH. The LATCH system provides for the installation of the child restraint without using the vehicle’s seat belts, instead securing the child restraint using lower anchorages and upper tether straps from the child restraint to the vehicle structure.

LATCH-compatible child restraint systems are now available. However, because the lower anchorages are to be introduced over a period of years, child restraint systems having attachments for those anchorages will continue to also have features for installation using the vehicle’s seat belts. Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for connection to the top tether anchorages have been available for some time. For some older child restraints, many child restraint manufacturers offer add-on tether strap

kits or retro-fit kits. You are urged to take advantage of all the available attachments provided with your child restraint in any vehicle.

NOTE: When using the LATCH attaching system to install a child restraint, please ensure that all seat belts not being used for occupant restraints are stowed and out of reach of children. It is recommended that before installing the child restraint, buckle the seat belt so the seat belt is tucked behind the child restraint and out of reach. If the buckled seat belt interferes with the child restraint installation, instead of tucking the seat belt behind the child restraint, route the seat belt through the child restraint belt path and then buckle it. This should stow the seat belt out of the reach of an inquisitive child. Remind all children in the vehicle that the seat belts are not toys and should not be played with, and never leave an unattended child in the vehicle.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 69

The rear seating positions have lower anchorages that are capable of accommodating LATCH-compatible child seats having flexible, webbing-mounted lower attachments. Child seats with fixed lower attachments must be installed in the outboard positions only. Regardless of the specific type of lower attachment, NEVER install LATCH-compatible child seats such that two seats share a common lower anchorage.

If you are installing LATCH-compatible child restraints in adjacent rear seating positions, you can use the LATCH anchors or the vehicle’s seat belt for the outboard position, but you must use the vehicle’s seat belt at the center position. If your child restraints are not LATCHcompatible, you can only install the child restraints using the vehicle’s seat belts. Please refer to the next section for typical installation instructions.

Installing the LATCH-Compatible Child Restraint System

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

The rear seat lower anchorages are round bars, located at the rear of the seat cushion where it meets the seatback, and are visible when you

lean into the rear seat to install the child restraint. You will easily feel them if you run your finger along the intersection of the seatback and seat cushion surfaces.

70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Latch Anchorages (Two-Door Models) Latch Anchorages (Four-Door Models)

In addition, there are tether strap anchorages behind each rear seating position located on the back of the seat.

Tether Strap Mounting (Two-Door Models)

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 71

Tether Strap Mounting (Four-Door Models)

Many, but not all restraint systems will be equipped with separate straps on each side, with each having a hook or connector for attachment to the lower anchorage and a means for adjusting the tension of the strap. Forwardfacing toddler restraints and some rear-facing infant restraints will also be equipped with a tether strap having

72 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

a hook for attachment to the tether strap anchorage, and a means for adjusting the tension of the strap.

You will first loosen the adjusters on the lower straps and on the tether strap so that you can more easily attach the hooks or connectors to the vehicle anchorages. Next, attach the lower hooks or connectors over the top of the anchorage bars, pushing aside the seat cover material. Then, locate the tether anchorage directly behind the seat where you are placing the child restraint and attach the tether strap to the anchorage, being careful to route the tether strap to provide the most direct path between the anchor and the child restraint. Finally, tighten all three straps as you push the child restraint rearward and downward into the seat, removing slack in the straps according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions.

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.

Installing Child Restraints Using the Vehicle Seat Belt

The passenger seat belts are equipped with automatic locking 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. Any seat belt system will loosen with time, so check the belt occasionally and pull it tight if necessary.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 73

If the seat belt has an automatic locking retractor, it will have a distinctive label. Pull the belt from the retractor until there is enough to allow you to pass through the child restraint and slide the latch plate into the buckle. Then, pull the belt until it is fully extended 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 “Automatic Locking Mode” earlier in this section.

If the belt still can’t be tightened, or if by pulling and pushing on the restraint loosens the belt, you may need

to do something more. Disconnect the latch plate from the buckle, turn the 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.

To attach a child restraint tether strap:

Tether Strap Mounting (Two-Door Models)

74 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Tether Strap Mounting (Four-Door Models)

Route the tether strap over the seatback and attach the hook to the tether anchor located on the back of the seat. For the outboard seating positions, route the tether under the head rest, and attach the hook to the tether anchor located on the back of the seat.

WARNING!

An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead to increased head motion and possible injury to the child. Use only the anchor positions directly behind the child seat to secure a child restraint top tether strap.

Transporting Pets

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

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 75

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

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

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

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

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

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

SAFETY TIPS Exhaust Gas

WARNING!

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

76 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas which can kill. Never run the engine in a closed area, such as a garage, and never sit in a parked vehicle with the engine running for an extended period. If the vehicle is stopped in an open area with the engine running for more than a short time, adjust the ventilation system to force fresh, outside air into the vehicle.

•

Guard against carbon monoxide with proper maintenance. Have the exhaust system inspected every time the vehicle is raised. Have any abnormal conditions repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive with all side windows fully open.

•

Always run the climate control in panel or floor mode when driving with any windows open, even if only slightly, to help keep fresh air circulating inside the vehicle. Otherwise poisonous gases could be drawn into the vehicle.

•

On hardtop models, keep the tailgate window closed when driving your vehicle. On fabric top models, do not drive with the rear window curtain up unless the side curtains are also open. This will prevent carbon monoxide and other poisonous exhaust gases from entering the vehicle.

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle

Seat Belts

Inspect the seat 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.). If there is any question regarding seat belt or retractor condition, replace the seat belt.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 77

Airbag Warning Light

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

Defrosters

Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place the blower control on high speed. You should be able to feel the air directed against the windshield. See your authorized dealer for service if your defroster is inoperable.

Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle

Tires

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

Lights

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

Fluid Leaks

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

䡵 Mirrors ...............................83

▫ Front Easy Entry Seats (Two-Door Models) ....88

▫ Inside Day/Night Mirror .................83

▫ Outside Mirrors .......................84

䡵 Hands–Free Communication (UConnect威) ......85

䡵 Seats .................................86

▫ Front Seat Adjustment ...................86

▫ Manual Seat Height Adjustment

— If Equipped ........................87

▫ Front Seatback Recline ...................87

▫ Head Restraints .......................89

▫ Fold And Tumble Rear Seat

(Two-Door Models) .....................89

▫ Removing The Rear Seat

(Two-Door Models) .....................91

▫ Replacing The Rear Seat

(Two-Door Models) .....................92

▫ 60/40 Split Folding Rear Seat

(Four-Door Models) ....................92

80 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

▫ To Raise The Rear Seat ..................94

䡵 To Open And Close The Hood ..............94

䡵 Lights ................................95

▫ Interior Lights ........................95

▫ Multifunction Control Lever ...............97

▫ Parking Lights, Instrument Panel Lights,

And Headlights .......................97

▫ Lights-On Reminder ....................98

▫ Headlight Dimmer Switch ................98

▫ Passing Light .........................99

▫ Front Fog Lights — If Equipped ............99

▫ Turn Signals ..........................99

▫ Daytime Running Lights — If Equipped ......99

䡵 Windshield Wipers And Washers ............100

▫ Intermittent Wiper System ...............100

▫ Windshield Wiper Operation .............100

▫ Windshield Washers ...................101

▫ Mist Feature .........................101

䡵 Tilt Steering Column ....................101

䡵 Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped ......102

▫ To Activate ..........................102

▫ To Set At A Desired Speed ...............103

▫ To Deactivate ........................103

▫ To Resume Speed .....................103

▫ To Vary The Speed Setting ...............103

▫ Manual Transmission ..................104

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 81

▫ To Accelerate For Passing ...............105

䡵 Electronic Brake Control System ............105

▫ ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) ............105

▫ TCS (Traction Control System) ............106

▫ BAS (Brake Assist System) ...............107

▫ ERM (Electronic Roll Mitigation) ..........108

▫ ESP (Electronic Stability Program) .........109

▫ ESP/BAS Warning Light ................115

䡵 Electrical Power Outlet ...................116

▫ Electrical Outlet Use With Engine Off .......117

䡵 Cupholders ...........................117

▫ Front Cupholders .....................117

▫ Rear Cupholders ......................118

䡵 Storage ..............................118

▫ Console Storage Compartment ............118

▫ Rear Storage Compartment ..............119

䡵 Dual Top — If Equipped .................120

▫ Removing The Soft Top .................120

▫ Installing The Soft Top .................122

䡵 Freedom Top Three-Piece Modular Hard Top . . . 125

▫ Front Panel(s) Removal .................126

▫ Front Panel(s) Installation ...............128

▫ Front Panel(s) Installation Only

(With Rear Hard Top Removed) ...........128

▫ Rear Hard Top Removal ................129

▫ Rear Hard Top Installation ...............131

82 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

䡵 Door Frame ...........................132

▫ Door Frame Removal (Two-Door Models) ....132

▫ Door Frame Installation (Two-Door Models) . . 134

▫ Door Frame Removal (Four-Door Models) ....135

▫ Door Frame Installation (Four-Door Models) . . 138

䡵 Soft Top (Two-Door Models) ...............141

▫ Folding Down The Soft Top ..............143

▫ Putting Up The Soft Top ................152

䡵 Sunrider (Two-Door Models) — If Equipped . . . 161

䡵 Sunrider (Four-Door Models) — If Equipped . . . 164

䡵 Soft Top (Four-Door Models) ...............168

▫ Folding Down The Soft Top ..............170

▫ Putting Up The Soft Top ................180

䡵 Folding Windshield .....................191

▫ Lowering The Windshield And Removing

Side Bars ...........................193

▫ Raising The Windshield And Replacing

Side

Bars ...............................196

䡵 Rear Window Features — Hard Top Only .....197

▫ Rear Window Wiper/Washer —

If Equipped .........................197

▫ Rear Window Defroster — If Equipped ......198

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 83

MIRRORS Inside Day/Night Mirror

The mirror should be adjusted to center on the view through the rear window. A two-point pivot system allows for horizontal and vertical adjustment of the mirror.

Adjusting Rearview Mirror

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

84 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

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.

Outside Rearview Mirror

WARNING!

•

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

•

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 85

HANDS–FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect姞)

This feature is not available on two–door or four–door models.

Voice Recognition Button (UConnect威 Hands-Free Phone)

When you press this button, a “Not Equipped with UConnect” message will display on your radio screen.

Phone Button (UConnect威 Hands-Free Phone)

When you press this button, a “Not Equipped with UConnect” message will display on your radio screen.

86 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

SEATS

WARNING!

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

Front Seat Adjustment

Move seat forward or rearward by lifting the lever. Be sure the latch engages fully.

Manual Seat Adjustment

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 87

Manual Seat Height Adjustment — If Equipped

The driver’s seat height can be raised or lowered by using the ratcheting handle on the outboard side of the seat. Pull upward on the handle to raise the seat. Push downward on the handle to lower the seat.

Seat Height Adjustment

Front Seatback Recline

To recline:

1. Lean forward before lifting the handle, then lean back to the desired position and release the handle.

Recline Lever

2. Lift the handle to return the seatback to an upright position.

88 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Front Easy Entry Seats (Two-Door Models)

Push the lever on the seatback rearward (toward the rear of the vehicle) to tilt the entire seat forward.

Easy Entry Lever

Easy Entry Seat

1. To return the seat to a sitting position, rotate the seatback upright until it locks.

2. Push the seat rearward until the track locks.

NOTE: The front seats have a full recliner memory, which will allow the seatback to be returned to its original position.

NOTE: The front seats have a track memory, which returns the seat to just past the halfway point of the track regardless of its original position.

NOTE: The recliner and easy entry levers should not be used during the automatic returning of the seat to its sitting position.

Head Restraints

Head restraints can reduce the risk of whiplash injury in the event of impact from the rear. Adjustable head restraints should be adjusted so that the upper edge is as high as practical. The front head restraints have a locking button that must be pushed inward to lower the head restraint. The restraints may be raised without pushing in the button. The rear head restraints are not adjustable.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 89

Adjustable Head Restraints

Fold And Tumble Rear Seat (Two-Door Models)

NOTE: Prior to folding the rear seat, it may be necessary to reposition the front seats.

90 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Also, be sure that the front seats are fully upright and positioned forward. This will allow the rear seat to fold down easily.

1. Lift the seatback release lever and fold seatback forward.

Rear Seat Release

2. Slowly flip the entire seat forward.

Folding Rear Seat

3. When completed, return the seat to its normal position.

4. Raise the rear seatback using the assist strap and firmly lock seat into position.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 91

Removing the Rear Seat (Two-Door Models)

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.

•

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

1. Remove the three rear subwoofer (if equipped) mounting screws using a #T30 Torx威 head driver.

Subwoofer

2. Unplug electrical connector from rear subwoofer (if equipped).

3. Fold the rear seat forward following steps 1 through 3 under “Fold and Tumble Rear Seat” in this section.

92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

4. Press down on the release bar on each side, and pull the seat out and away from lower bracket.

5. Remove the seat from the vehicle.

Release Bar Location

Replacing the Rear Seat (Two-Door Models)

Reverse steps for removing the seat.

WARNING!

•

To help protect against personal injury, passengers should not be seated in the rear cargo area with the rear seat folded down or removed from the vehicle.

•

The rear cargo space is intended for load carrying purposes only, not for passengers, who should sit in seats and use seat belts.

60/40 Split Folding Rear Seat (Four-Door Models)

To provide additional storage area, each rear seat can be folded flat to allow for extended cargo space and still maintain some rear seating room.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 93

NOTE: Prior to folding the rear seat, it may be necessary to reposition the front seat to its mid-track position.

Also, be sure that the front seats are fully upright and positioned forward. This will allow the rear seat to fold down easily.

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.

To Fold Down the Rear Seat

Locate the pull strap (lower outboard side of seat), and pull it towards you until the seatback releases.

Pull Strap

94 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

To Raise the Rear Seat

1. Raise the seatback and lock it into place. If interference from the cargo area prevents the seatback from fully locking, you will have difficulty returning the seat to its proper position.

NOTE: If the rear seatback is not fully latched, the center shoulder belt will not be able to be extended for use. If you cannot extend the center shoulder belt, please make sure your seatback is fully latched.

WARNING!

Be certain that the seatback is securely locked into position. If the seatback in not securely locked into position the seat will not provide the proper stability for child seats and/or passengers. An improperly latched seat could cause serious injury.

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD

To open the hood, first release both hood latches.

Hood Latch

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 95

Next, locate handle in middle of the front end of the hood. Insert hand into gap between hood and top of grille, and push handle to the side to raise hood. You may have to push down slightly on the hood before pushing the handle. Insert the support rod into the slot on the hood panel.

To close the hood, remove the support rod from the hood panel and place it in the retaining clip. Lower the hood slowly. Secure both of the hood latches.

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.

LIGHTS Interior Lights

The overhead light will come on when a door is opened. It may also be turned on by rotating the control for the dimmer switch on the multifunction control lever fully upward.

The overhead light will automatically turn off in about 20 minutes if a door is left open or the dimmer control is left in the dome light position. Turn the ignition switch ON to restore the overhead light operation.

Cargo Lamp

The courtesy and dome lights will turn on when the front doors are opened, when the dimmer control (rotating wheel on the right side of the switch) is rotated to the upward detent position, or if equipped, when the UNLOCK button is pressed on the RKE key fob.

96 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Also, the rear cargo lamp may be turned on by pressing the lens. Press the lens again to turn it off.

Cargo Lamp

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 turn off. This is also known as the ⬙Party⬙ mode because it allows the doors to stay open for extended periods of time without discharging the vehicle’s battery.

Rear Cargo Lamp (Four-Door Models)

Daytime Brightness Feature

Certain instrument panel components (odometer, radio display) can be illuminated at full brightness during the daytime. This can be helpful when driving with your headlights on during the daytime, such as in a parade or a funeral procession. To activate this feature, rotate the left stalk one detent lower than the dome light.

Multifunction Control Lever

The multifunction control lever controls the operation of the parking lights, headlights, headlight beam selection, passing light, fog lights, instrument panel light dimming, and turn signals. The lever is located on the left side of the steering column.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 97

Multifunction Control Lever

Parking Lights, Instrument Panel Lights, and Headlights

Turn the end of the multifunction control lever to the first detent for parking lights and instrument panel lights. Turn to the second detent for headlight operation.

98 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: Lens fogging can occur under certain atmospheric conditions. This will usually clear as atmospheric conditions change to allow the condensation to change back into a vapor. Turning the lamps on will usually accelerate the clearing process.

Headlight Switch

To change the brightness of the instrument panel lights, rotate the center portion of the multifunction control lever up or down.

NOTE: If the driver’s door is left open, and the headlights or parking lights are left on, the High Beam Indicator Light will remain illuminated and a chime will sound.

Lights-On Reminder

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

Headlight Dimmer Switch

Push the multifunction control lever away from you to switch the headlights to high beam. Pull the lever towards you to switch the headlights back to low beam.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 99

Passing Light

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

Front Fog Lights — If Equipped

The front fog light switch is located on the multifunction control lever. To activate the front fog lights, turn on the parking or low beam headlights

and pull out the end of the lever.

NOTE: The fog lights will only operate with the parking lights or the headlights on low beam. Selecting high beam headlights will turn off the fog lights.

Turn Signals

Move the multifunction control lever up or down, and the arrows on each side of the instrument cluster flash, to show proper operation of the front and rear turn signal lights. You can signal a lane change by moving the lever partially up or down without moving beyond the detent.

If either light has a very fast flash rate, check for a defective outside light bulb. If an indicator fails to light when the lever is moved, it would suggest that the fuse or indicator is defective or there may be a circuit failure.

NOTE: A tone will chime if the turn signals are left on for more than 1 mi (2 km).

Daytime Running Lights — If Equipped

The headlights come on at a low intensity level after the vehicle has been driven approximately 3 ft (1 m). They will turn off when the vehicle is turned off or when the headlights are switched on.

Jeep Wrangler 2008 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

ROLLOVER WARNING

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

Ignition Key Removal

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

STEERING WHEEL LOCK

To Manually Lock the Steering Wheel

To Release the Steering Wheel Lock

SENTRY KEY姞

Replacement Keys

Customer Key Programming

General Information

To Set the Alarm

To Disarm the System

ILLUMINATED ENTRY

To Unlock the Doors and Swing Gate

To Lock the Doors and Swing Gate

Using The Panic Alarm

Programming Additional Transmitters

General Information

Battery Replacement

DOORS

Upper Half Door Window Removal (If Equipped)

Upper Half Door Window Installation (If Equipped)

Front Door Removal

Rear Door Removal (Four-Door Models)

DOOR LOCKS

Manual Door Locks

Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit

Automatic Door Locks

Rear Power Windows (Four-Door Models Only)

Wind Buffeting

REAR SWING GATE

OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

Lap/Shoulder Belts

Rear Center Lap/Shoulder Belt Retractor Lock-Out (Four-Door Models Only)

Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage

Seat Belt Pretensioners

Seat Belts And Pregnant Women

Seat Belt Extender

Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS)

Child Restraint

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle

Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Outside Mirrors

SEATS

Front Seat Adjustment

Front Seatback Recline

Front Easy Entry Seats (Two-Door Models)

Head Restraints

Fold And Tumble Rear Seat (Two-Door Models)

Removing the Rear Seat (Two-Door Models)

Replacing the Rear Seat (Two-Door Models)

60/40 Split Folding Rear Seat (Four-Door Models)

To Raise the Rear Seat

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD

Multifunction Control Lever

Parking Lights, Instrument Panel Lights, and Headlights

Lights-On Reminder

Headlight Dimmer Switch

Passing Light

Turn Signals