Jeep Liberty 2004 User Manual

SECTION PAGE

1

INTRODUCTION

2

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

4

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

5

STARTING AND OPERATING

6

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

7

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

9

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

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

...................................145

.................................................207

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

...............................................283

..................................................329

.........................................347

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

10

INDEX

....................................................................357

10

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1

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

▫ Roll Over Warning .....................4

m How To Use This Manual ..................6

m Warnings And Cautions ...................7

m Vehicle Identification Number ...............7

m Vehicle Modifications / Alterations ...........8

4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for selecting a Jeept Liberty and welcome to
our worldwide family.

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 vehicles
were not intended. However, on-road ride and handling
will have a different feel from what drivers experience
with other vehicles, 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 to a four-wheel
drive vehicle.

Before you start to drive this vehicle, read this manual. Be
sure you are familiar with all vehicle controls, particu­larly those used for braking, steering and 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 it or expect it to
overcome the laws of nature. 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. Be sure to read “On-Road/Off-Road Driving
Tips” in Section 5 of this manual.

Roll Over Warning

Utility vehicles have a significantly higher roll over 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

INTRODUCTION 5

and the narrower track, if this vehicle is out of control it
may roll over when some other vehicles may not.

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, roll over of the vehicle, and severe or fatal
injury. Drive carefully.

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 2
million annually. In a roll over crash an unbelted person
is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing
a seat belt. Always buckle up.

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

1

6 INTRODUCTION

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 the manufac­turer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained
technicians and genuine Mopart parts, and is interested
in your satisfaction.

WARNING!

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or otherreproductive harm. In addition,
certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain prod­ucts of component wear contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

Consult the table of contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.

The detailed index, at the rear of the manual, contains a
complete listing of all subjects.

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

This manual contains WARNINGS against operating
procedures which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against procedures
which could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do
not read this entire manual you may miss important
information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is located on a
stamped plate on the bottom of the left front A-Pillar,
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.

INTRODUCTION 7

1

NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.

8 INTRODUCTION

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

m A Word About Your Keys ..................12

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

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

m Sentry Key Immobilizer System — If Equipped . .14

▫ Important Note About Service .............15

▫ Replacement Keys ......................15

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

▫ General Information ....................16

m Steering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ..........17

2

▫ To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel .......17

▫ To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........17

m Illuminated Entry ........................17

m Doors And Door Locks ....................18

▫ Manual Door Locks .....................19

▫ Power Door Locks — If Equipped ..........21

▫ Automatic Door Locks — If Equipped .......21

▫ Child Protection Locks ..................22

m Remote Keyless Entry .....................23

10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

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

▫ To Unlatch The Swing Gate Flip-Up Window . .24

▫ Panic Alarm ..........................25

▫ To Use The Panic Alarm .................25

▫ To Program Additional Transmitters .........26

▫ General Information ....................26

▫ Transmitter Battery Service ...............27

m Security Alarm System — If Equipped .........28

▫ To Set The Alarm ......................28

▫ To Disarm The System ...................28

m Rear Swing Gate ........................29

m Windows .............................32

▫ Power Windows — If Equipped ............32

▫ Wind Buffeting ........................34

m Occupant Restraints ......................34

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

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions .....36

▫ Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....40

▫ Automatic Locking Mode — If Equipped .....41

▫ Energy Management Feature ..............42

▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................43

▫ Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Use Reminder System

(BeltAlert) ...........................44

▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............45

▫ Seat Belt Extender ......................45

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11

▫ Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental

Restraint Systems (SRS) — Airbags ..........46

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

m Engine Break-In Recommendations ...........68

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

▫ Exhaust Gas ..........................68

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The

Vehicle ..............................69

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The

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

2

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 dealer to give you the
number. The key code can also be obtained by the dealer
from your vehicle invoice.

Ignition Key

Insert the key fully, then turn the switch to one of the four
illustrated positions. The key can be inserted or with­drawn only in the LOCK position. The automatic trans­mission gear selector must be in the P (Park) position.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13

To remove the ignition key on models with an automatic
transmission, place the gearshift lever in P (Park), turn
the ignition key to LOCK and remove the key.

To remove the ignition key on models with a manual
transmission, depress and hold the key release button,
turn the ignition key to LOCK and remove the key.

WARNING!

Leaving children in a vehicle unattended 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 gear selector
lever. Do not leave the keys 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.

2

14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

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

SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM — IF
EQUIPPED

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) prevents
unauthorized operation of the vehicle by disabling the
engine. The system will shut the engine down after 2
seconds of running if an invalid key is used to start the
vehicle. This system utilizes ignition keys which have an
electronic chip (transponder) embedded into them. Only
keys that have been programmed to the vehicle can be
used to start and operate the vehicle for longer than the
2 second validation time period.

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be
armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic
regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or

unlocked. During normal operation, the SKIS indicator
light will come on for 3 seconds immediately after the
ignition switch is turned on for a bulb check. Afterwards,
if the bulb remains on, this indicates a malfunction in the
electronics. If the bulb begins to flash immediately after
the ignition switch is turned on, this indicates that an
invalid key is being used to start the vehicle. Both of
these conditions will result in the engine being shut
down after 2 seconds of running. Keep in mind that a key
which has not been programmed is also considered an
invalid key even if it is cut to fit the ignition for that
vehicle.

If the SKIS indicator light comes on during normal
vehicle operation (it has been running for longer than 10
seconds) a fault has been detected in the electronics and
the vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

NOTE:

•

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible
with remote starting systems. Use of these systems
may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of
security protection.

•

Mobil Speedpass™, additional Sentry Keys, or any
other transponder equipped components on the same
keychain will not cause a key-related (Transponder)
fault unless the additional part is physically held
against the ignition key being used when starting the
vehicle. Also, 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.

Important Note About Service

A four digit PIN number is needed to service the Sentry
Key Immobilizer System. This number can be obtained
from your authorized dealer. However, this number can
also be found on your customer invoice that you were
given upon receipt of your vehicle.

Replacement Keys

NOTE: Only keys that have been programmed to the
vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once
a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it cannot
be programmed to any other vehicle.

At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four digit PIN number. This number is required
for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may
be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the
Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure

2

16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle
electronics. A blank key is one which has never been
programmed.

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

Customer Key Programming

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

1. Cut the additional Sentry Key Transponder blank(s) to
match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.

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

3. Insert the second valid key and turn the ignition
switch ON within 15 seconds. After ten seconds, a chime

will sound and the SKIS indicator light will begin to
flash. Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the
second key.

4. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON within 60 seconds. After 10
seconds, a single chime will sound. The SKIS indicator
light will stop flashing, turn on for 3 seconds; then turn
off.

The new Sentry Key has been programmed. Repeat this
process to program up to a total of 8 keys.

General Information

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

1. This device may not cause harmful interference.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

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

STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED

Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering
wheel lock (manual transmission only). 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 1/2
revolution from 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 right or left to disengage the lock.

NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage
the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to
disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage
the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.

ILLUMINATED ENTRY

The interior lights come on when you open any door.
They will remain on for about 30 seconds after all doors
are closed then fade to off.

The lights also will fade to off if you turn on the ignition
after you close all the doors.

2

18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

DOORS AND 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” and then show the odometer/trip odometer
mileage (each for 2 seconds). The display will continue to
cycle.

NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with the optional Elec­tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) in the overhead
console, all warnings including “door”, “GATE”,
“GLASS”, and “LOWASH” will only be displayed in the
EVIC display (not in the instrument cluster). For addi­tional information, refer to “Overhead Console — If
Equipped” in Section 3.

If any other active warnings including “GATE”,
“GLASS”, or “LOWASH” 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.

Manual Door Locks

Use the manual door lock plunger to lock the doors from
inside the vehicle. If the plunger is down when the door
is closed, the door will lock. Therefore, make sure the
keys are not inside the vehicle before closing the door.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19

2

20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

•

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

•

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

CAUTION!

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21

Power Door Locks — If Equipped

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

If the plunger is down when the door is closed, the door
will lock. Therefore, make sure the keys are not inside the
vehicle before closing the door.

If you press the door lock switch while the keys are in the
ignition switch, and the driver’s door is open, the doors
will not lock.

The rear doors cannot be opened from inside the vehicle
until you pull up the lock plungers.

Automatic Door Locks — If Equipped

The doors will lock automatically if:

1. all doors are closed,

2. vehicle speed is above 15 mph (24 km/h),

3. and the accelerator pedal is depressed.
This will occur only once, will not reoccur until a door is

opened.

2

22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Child Protection Locks

The rear doors of your vehicle are equipped with child
protection locks. If you push up on the lever on the open
edge of the door it cannot be opened from the inside of
the vehicle. Push the lever down to disengage the child
protection locks.

WARNING!

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors or
open the swing gate flip-up window from distances of
23–50 feet (7–15 meters) using a transmitter. You don’t
have to point the transmitter at the vehicle to activate the
system. Each vehicle comes with two transmitters.

To Unlock the Doors

Press and release the “Unlock” button once to unlock the
driver’s door. Press the button again within 5 seconds to
unlock all the doors. If your vehicle is equipped with
Illuminated Entry, the interior lights also come on and
remain on for about 30 seconds, when you unlock the
doors. The park lights will flash twice to acknowledge
the unlock signal.

NOTE: The transmitter can be programmed to unlock
all the doors upon the first press of the 9Unlock9 button
(within 23–50 feet (7–15 meters) of the vehicle) by per­forming the following procedure:

1. Press and hold the 9Unlock9 button on the transmitter.

2. Continue to hold the 9Unlock9 button, wait at least 4
but no longer than 10 seconds, then press the “Lock”
button.

3. Release both buttons.

4. Repeating steps 1–3 will restore original operation.
NOTE: The Light Flash can be enabled or disabled

(within 23–50 feet (7–15 meters) of the vehicle) by per­forming the following procedure:

1. Press and hold the 9Lock9 button on the transmitter.

2

24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

2. Continue to hold the 9Lock9 button, wait at least 4 but
no longer than 10 seconds, then press the “Rear Release”
button.

3. Release both buttons.

4. Repeating steps 1–3 will restore original transmitter
operation.

To Lock the Doors

Press and release the “Lock” button once to lock the
doors, swing gate flip-up window, and swing gate.

The horn will chirp and the park lights will flash once to
acknowledge the lock signal.

NOTE: The horn chirp can be enabled or disabled
(within 23–50 feet (7–15 meters) of the vehicle) by the
following procedure:

1. Press and hold the 9Lock9 button on the transmitter.

2. Continue to hold the 9Lock9 button, wait at least 4 but
no longer than 10 seconds, then press the 9Unlock9
button.

3. Release both buttons.

4. Repeating steps 1–3 will restore original transmitter
operation.

To Unlatch the Swing Gate Flip-Up Window

Press and hold the “Rear Release” button on the trans­mitter to unlatch the swing gate flip-up window.

WARNING!

To avoid injury stand back when opening. Glass will
automatically rise.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25

NOTE: The transmitter can be programmed to unlatch
the flip-up window immediately upon activation of the
“Rear Release” button (without pressing and holding)
(within 23–50 feet (7–15 meters) of the vehicle) by per­forming the following procedure:

1. Press and hold the “Unlock” button on the transmitter.

2. Continue to hold the “Unlock” button, wait at least 4
but no longer than 10 seconds, then press the “Rear
Release” button.

3. Release both buttons.

4. Repeating steps 1–3 will restore original transmitter
operation.

NOTE: Unlatching the flip-up window will unlock the
swing gate. After closing the flip-up window, press the
“Lock” button on the transmitter to lock the swing gate.

Panic Alarm

The panic mode flashes the park lights, and sounds the
horn for about 3 minutes or until the alarm is turned off.

To Use the Panic Alarm

Press and hold the PANIC button for at least 1 second to
activate the panic alarm. Press and hold the PANIC
button a second time to deactivate the alarm. The alarm
will also shut itself off after starting the vehicle and
accelerating to 15 mph (24 km/h).

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.

2

26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To Program Additional Transmitters

NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with the optional Elec­tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) in the overhead
console, the transmitters may also be programmed
through the EVIC display. For additional information,
refer to “Overhead Console — If Equipped” in Section 3.

Up to 4 transmitters can be programmed to your vehicle.
To obtain additional transmitters, contact your autho­rized dealer. To program a transmitter (within 23–50 feet
(7–15 meters) of the vehicle), perform the following
procedure:

1. Gather every transmitter that is to be used with the
vehicle including any transmitters that are currently
programmed.

2. Enter Program Mode: Turn the ignition to the ON
position, and using a currently programmed transmitter;
press and hold the 9Unlock9 button on the transmitter.

Continue to hold the “Unlock” button, wait at least 4 but
no longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the
PANIC button for at least 1 second. Release both buttons
simultaneously.

3. Program Each Transmitter: All transmitters to be used
with your vehicle must be programmed as follows:

Press and release the 9Lock9 and 9Unlock9 buttons simul­taneously, followed by a press and release of ANY button
on each transmitter to be programmed. You will hear a
chime when a transmitter has been successfully pro­grammed.

General Information

This transmitter complies with FCC rules part 15 and
with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two 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.

If your Remote Keyless Entry fails to operate from a
normal distance, check for these two conditions:

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

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

Transmitter Battery Service

The recommended replacement battery is the Panasonic
CR2016 or equivalent.

1. Pry the transmitter halves apart with a dime or similar
object. Make sure not to damage the rubber gasket
material during removal.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27

2

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

3. Reassemble the transmitter case. Snap the halves
together and test transmitter operation.

28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

This system monitors the vehicle doors, swing gate,
swing gate flip-up window, and ignition for unautho­rized operation. When the alarm is activated, the system
provides both audible and visual 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
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, a red light in 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
red light will flash at a slower rate to indicate the alarm
is set.

To Disarm the System

To disarm the system, use the remote keyless entry
transmitter or the key to unlock the driver’s door. 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 29

NOTE: On vehicles equipped with Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE), there will not be a door lock cylinder on the
front passenger door, rear doors, or rear swing gate.
Therefore, you will be unable to disarm the system with
a manual unlock of the passenger or rear doors.

The Security Alarm System is designed to protect your
vehicle; however, you can create conditions where the
system will arm unexpectedly. If you remain in the
vehicle and lock the doors with the transmitter, 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 remote keyless entry
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.

REAR SWING GATE

NOTE: The master key that is used to start the vehicle is
also used to lock or unlock the front doors, and open the
rear swing gate.

To unlock the rear swing gate, insert the key into the lock
(if equipped) and turn counter clockwise. The swing gate
flip-up window will unlatch and the swing gate will
unlock.

WARNING!

To avoid injury stand back when opening. Glass will
automatically rise.

On vehicles equipped with power locks, the swing gate
can also be unlocked using the remote keyless entry, or
by activating the power door lock switches located on the
front doors.

2

30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To open the swing gate, pull the gate handle to its first
detent to open just the flip-up window. Pull the handle to
its second detent (all the way) to open both the flip-up
window and swing gate.

WARNING!

To avoid injury stand back when opening. Glass will
automatically rise.

The vacuum fluorescent (VF) display located in the
odometer area displays the words “GATE” and/or
“GLASS” as an indication of when the swing gate and/or
flip-up window, is not completely closed. When the
vehicle is not moving and the swing gate and/or flip-up
window is not completely closed, the VF display will
show the word “GATE”and/or “GLASS” and then show
the odometer/trip odometer mileage (each for 2 sec­onds). The display will continue to cycle.

NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with the optional Elec­tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) in the overhead
console, all warnings including “door”, “GATE”,
“GLASS”, and “LOWASH” will only be displayed in the
EVIC display (not in the instrument cluster). For addi­tional information, refer to “Overhead Console — If
Equipped” in Section 3.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31

2

If any other active warnings including “door” or “LO­WASH” are present, they will be shown in the VF display
and will also continue to cycle. If the vehicle is moving,
two single chimes will occur if the rear glass is open or
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).

32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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: Close swing gate before flip-up window.

CAUTION!

Do not press on rear wiper blade when closing
swing gate, 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.

NOTE: The rear swing gate will lock while the rear
wiper is operating. The gate will stay locked until the
wiper is turned off and the gate is unlocked (by key,
lock switch, or key fob).

WINDOWS
Power Windows — If Equipped

The power window switches are located on the center
floor console. The top left switch controls the left rear
passenger window and the top right switch controls the
right rear passenger window. The lower left switch
controls the left front window, and the lower right switch
controls the right front window. The switches will oper­ate only when the ignition is in the ON or ACCESSORY
position.

The window lock switch located next to the window
switches allows you to disable the rear passenger win­dow switches that are located on the back of the center
floor console.

Auto Down Feature — If Equipped

The driver’s and passenger’s front window switches
have an auto down feature.Press the window switch past
the detent, release, and the window will go down auto­matically.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33

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

Rear Passenger Window Switches

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

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34 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, or the sunroof (if equipped) in certain
open or partially open positions. This is a normal occur­rence and can be minimized. If the buffeting occurs with
the sunroof open, adjust the sunroof opening to minimize
the buffeting.

OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

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

NOTE: The front airbags have a multi stage 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
much greater injuries if you are not properly buck­led up. You can strike the interior of your vehicle or
other passengers, or you can be thrown out of the
vehicle. Always be sure you and others in your
vehicle are buckled up properly.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35

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 which includes you. This can
happen far away from home or on your own street.

Research has shown that seat belts save lives, and they
can reduce the seriousness of injuries in a collision. Some
of the worst injuries happen when people are thrown
from the vehicle. Seat belts reduce the possibility of
ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the
inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should
be belted at all times.

Lap/Shoulder Belts

All the seats in your vehicle are equipped with 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 you striking the inside of the
vehicle or being thrown out.

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36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

•

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

•

Two people should never be belted into a single
seat belt. People beltedtogether 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 your seat.
Grasp the latch plate and pull out the belt. Slide the latch
plate up the webbing as far as necessary to make the belt
go around your lap.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37

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

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38 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 too loose will not protect you as well. In a
sudden stop you could move too far forward, increasing
the possibility of injury. Wear your seat belt snugly.

A belt that is worn under your arm is very dangerous.
Yourbody 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 your strongest bones will take the
force in a collision.

A shoulder belt placed behind will not protectyou 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 portion, pull up a
bit 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 39

WARNING!

A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of
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 part of your seat 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.

2

40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

6. To release the belt, push the red button marked PRESS
on the buckle. The belt will automatically retract to its
stowed position. If necessary, slide the latch plate down
the webbing to allow it 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 an accident if they
have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing,
pretensioner, etc.).

Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage

In the front seat positions, the shoulder belt can be
adjusted upward or downward to position the belt away
from your neck. To lower the shoulder belt height, push
the button and slide the height adjuster down. To raise
the height of the shoulder belt, slide the height adjuster
up. Pull down on the height adjuster to make sure it is
locked in place.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41

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.

Automatic Locking Mode — If Equipped

In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre­locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in
the shoulder belt.

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42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

When To Use The Automatic Locking Mode

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

How To Use The Automatic Locking Mode

1. Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

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

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

How to Disengage The Automatic Locking Mode

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

Energy Management Feature

This vehicle has a safety belt system with an energy
management feature at the driver and front passenger
seating positions to help further reduce the risk of injury
in the event of a head-on collision.

This safety belt system has a retractor assembly that is
designed to pay out webbing in a controlled manner. This
feature is designed to help reduce the belt force acting on
the occupant’s chest.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43

WARNING!

•

After a vehicle collision, the driver and front
passenger outboard seat belt system must be
checked by a qualified technician to verify that
the “automatic locking retractor” feature for child
seats is still functioning properly. In addition, all
seat belts should be checked for proper function.

•

The belt and retractor assembly must be replaced
if the seat belt assembly “automatic locking re­tractor” feature or any other seat belt function is
not working properly when checked according to
the procedures in the Service Manual.

•

Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly
could increase the risk of injury in collisions.

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 front Airbag
Control 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.

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44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Use Reminder System
(BeltAlert)

If the driver’s seat belt has not been buckled within 60
seconds of starting the vehicle and if the vehicle speed is
greater than 5 mph (8 km/h), the Enhanced Warning
System (BeltAlert) will alert the driver to buckle their seat
belt. The driver should also instruct all other occupants to
buckle their seat belts. Once the warning is triggered, the
Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert) will continue to
chime and flash the Seat Belt Warning Light for 96
seconds or until the driver’s seat belt is buckled.

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

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

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

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

2. Turn the ignition key to the ACCESSORY/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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45

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

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

Seat Belts and Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use the 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 lap belt is not long enough when it is worn
low and snug, and in the recommended seating
positions. Remove and store the extender when not
needed.

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46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint Systems (SRS) — Airbags

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

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

The front airbags have a multi stage inflator design. This
may allow the airbag to have different rates of inflation
that are based on collision severity and occupant size.
Also, the front passenger airbag is certified to the Federal
regulations that define Occupant Classification (Refer to
“Occupant Classification System” in this section).

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 47

This vehicle may also be equipped with window bags to
protect the driver, front, and rear passengers sitting next
to a window. If the vehicle is equipped with window
bags, they are located above the side windows. Their
covers are also labeled SRS AIRBAG.

NOTE: Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior
trim; but they will open to allow airbag deployment.

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 not there to protect you. These
protective covers for the airbag cushions are de­signed to open only when the airbags are inflating.

• If your vehicle is equipped with window bags, do

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

• If your vehicle is equipped with window bags, do

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

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48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Along with the seat belts, front airbags work with the
instrument panel knee bolsters to provide improved
protection for the driver and front passenger. Window
bags also work with seat belts to improve occupant
protection.

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

NOTE: The passenger front airbag may not deploy even
when the driver front airbag has if the Occupant Classi­fication System (refer to “Occupant Classification Sys­tem” in this section) has determined the seat is empty or
is occupied by someone that is classified in the “child”
category. This could be a child, a teenager, or even a small
adult.

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

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 in an appropriate child restraint.

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

If a child from 1 to 12 years old must ride in the front
passenger seat because the vehicle is crowded, move the
seat as far back as possible, and use the proper child
restraint. See “Child Restraint” in this section.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49

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

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

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

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

WARNING!

•

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

•

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

•

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

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50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Airbag System Components

The airbag system consists of the following:

•

Occupant Restraint Controller

•

Remote Acceleration Sensors

•

Airbag Warning Light

•

Driver Airbag

•

Passenger Airbag

•

Window Bags above Side Windows (If Equipped)

•

Steering Wheel and Column

•

Instrument Panel

•

Interconnecting Wiring

•

Knee Impact Bolsters

•

Front Acceleration Sensors

•

Driver and Front Passenger Seat Belt Pretensioners

•

Front Passenger Seat Occupant Classification System
(OCS)

−

Occupant Classification Module

−

Passenger Airbag Disabled (PAD) Indicator Light

−

Interconnecting Wiring

−

Pressure Sensor, BladderAssembly, and Belt Tension
Sensor

How The Airbag System Works

The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) determines

•

if a frontal collision is severe enough to require the
airbags to inflate. Based on the level of collision
severity, the front control module determines the
proper rate of inflation. The front airbag inflators are
designed to provide different rates of airbag inflation
from direction provided by the ORC. The ORC may

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51

modify the rate of inflation based on the occupant size
provided by the Occupant Classification Module. The
ORC will not detect roll over, or rear impacts.

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

Also, the ORC turns on the AIRBAG warning light and
PAD indicator light in the instrument panel for 6 to 8
seconds for a self-check when the ignition is first turned
on. After the self-check, the AIRBAG warning light will
turn off. The PAD indicator light will function normally
(Refer to “Passenger Airbag Disable (PAD) Indicator
Light” in this section). If the ORC detects a malfunction
in any part of the system, it turns on the AIRBAG

warning light either momentarily or continuously. A
single chime will sound if the light comes on again after
initial start up.

WARNING!

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

•

The Occupant Classification System (OCS) will clas­sify an occupant into a size category based on sensor
readings from within the seat cushion. Occupants
should try to remain in a normally seated position. If
the occupant’s weight is transferred to another object
in the vehicle (i.e. feet on the dashboard), the OCS may

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52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

not be able to properly approximate occupant size.
Furthermore, the occupant size may appear to increase
or decrease due to objects hanging on the seat, other
passengers pushing on the seat, or objects lodged
underneath the seat. If there is a rapid change in
temperature or humidity, the OCS may not be able to
properly approximate occupant size. If your seat in­cluding your trim cover and cushion needs to be
serviced in any way, take the vehicle to your autho­rized dealer. Only manufacturer approved seat acces­sories may be used.

If there is a fault present in the system, the AIRBAG
warning light will light indicating that you should
take the vehicle to an authorized dealer. In the pres­ence of an occupant in the passenger seat, if both the
PAD indicator light and AIRBAG warning light are
illuminated the airbag will be disabled.

The ORC will not allow front airbag deployment in the
event of a collision for occupants classified into the
empty or child size categories. The PAD indicator light
will illuminate indicating that the Passenger Airbag is
OFF when the OCS has determined that the occupant size
category is a child. Also, when the seat is empty or an
object that weighs less than a predetermined threshold is
placed on the seat, the light will remain OFF. (The PAD
indicator light is an amber light located on the grab
handle in front of the passenger seat.)

For almost all sizes of properly seated adults, the passen­ger frontal airbag will be enabled in the event of a
collision. For small teenagers and some small adults,
depending on size, the airbag may or may not be enabled
in the event of a collision. For small teenagers and some
small adults, depending on size, the airbag may or may
not be enabled in the event of a collision. Both drivers

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53

and passengers should always use the PAD indicator
light as an indication if the front passenger is properly
positioned or not. If the PAD indicator light comes on
when an adult is in the passenger seat, have the passen­ger re-position themselves in the seat until the light goes
out. Remember, if the PAD indicator light is illuminated
the passenger front airbag will not inflate. For properly
installed child restraint systems and children properly
seated on the front passenger seat, the airbag will be
disabled. If at all possible, place children 12 years and
younger in a back seat.

•

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. Differentairbag inflation rates
may be possible based on collision severity and occu­pant size. The steering wheel hub trim cover and the

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54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

upper right side of the instrument panel separate and
fold out of the way as the bags inflate to their full size.
The bags fully inflate in about 50–70 milliseconds. This
is about half of the time it takes to blink your eyes. The
bags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the
driver and front passenger.

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

•

The Occupant Classification Module (OCM) is lo­cated beneath the front passenger seat. The OCM
classifies the occupant into one of three size categories
based on the input from the Bladder Assembly and a
Belt Tension Sensor. The size categories include empty,

child, and adult. The OCM sends the Occupant Clas­sification to the ORC to determine if a front passenger
airbag is allowed. If a fault is present, the AIRBAG
warning light is illuminated.

•

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

airbag is turned OFF. In the presence of a properly
seated occupant, when the PAD indicator light is
illuminated, the airbag is OFF. Also, when the Occu­pant Classification System detects either an empty seat
or a weight less than the predetermined threshold, the
ORC will not illuminate the PAD indicator light even
though the airbag is turned OFF.

•

The Belt Tension Sensor (BTS) is located at the
outboard passenger lap belt anchor. The BTS creates a
signal based on outboard lap belt tension. This signal
is sent to the OCM to ensure that the resultant bladder

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55

pressure increase due to applied lap belt tension does
not cause a small occupant to be classified as a larger
occupant.

•

The Bladder Mat and Pressure Sensor are located
beneath the seat cushion foam. The pressure sensor
sends a signal to the OCM.

•

The Side Impact SRS Window Bags are designed to
activate only in certain side collisions. When the ORC
(with side impact option) detects a collision requiring
the window bags to inflate, it signals the inflators on
the crash side of the vehicle.A quantity of nontoxic gas
is generated to inflate the window bag. The inflating
window bag pushes the outside edge of the headliner
out of the way and covers the window. The airbag
inflates in about 30 milliseconds (about one quarter of
the time it takes to blink your eyes) with enough force
to injure you if you are not belted and seated properly,
or if items are positioned in the area where the

window bag inflates. This especially applies to chil-

1

dren. The window bag is only about 3

⁄2inches (9 cm)

thick when it is inflated.

•

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

If A Deployment Occurs

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

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:

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56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abra­sions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front
passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The
abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those
you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium
floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals.
They are not permanent and normally heal quickly.
However, if you haven’t healed significantly within a
few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor
immediately. As the airbags deflate you may see some
smoke-like particles. The particles are a normal by­product of the process that generates the nontoxic gas
used for airbag inflation. These airborne particles may
irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin
or eye irritation, rinse the area with cool water. For
nose or throat irritation, move to fresh air. If the
irritation continues, see your doctor. If these particles
settle on your clothing, follow the garment manufac­turer’s instructions for cleaning.

•

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

WARNING!

Deployed airbags and seat belt pretensioners cannot
protect you in another collision. Have the airbags,
seat belt pretensioners, and the front passenger seat
belt retractor assembly, replaced by an authorized
dealer as soon as possible. Also, have the Occupant
Classification System serviced as well.

Enhanced Accident Response System (E.A.R.S.)

If the airbags deploy after an impact and the electrical
system remains functional, the interior lights will turn on
and the power door locks (if equipped) will unlock 10
seconds after airbag deployment.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57

Also, the fuel system will shut off immediately upon
airbag deployment (gasoline models only). The ignition
switch will need to be cycled (i.e. turn the ignition key
from the ON position to the LOCK position) after ap­proximately 5 seconds in order to restart the vehicle.

Maintaining Your Airbag System

WARNING!

2

• Modifications to any part of the airbag system could cause

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

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

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

58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

•

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 vehiclethat it has an airbag system.

•

Remains on after the 6 to 8 second interval.

•

Comes on for any period of time while driving.

Child Restraint

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

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 6 to 8 seconds after the
ignition switch is first turned on.

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.

WARNING!

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

Infants and Small Children

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59

•

This vehicle is not capable of accommodating the
installation of a car bed used for carrying newborn
babies at the right front passenger seat position. If a car
bed must be used to transport a newborn baby, the car
bed must be installed in the second seating row only.

•

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). Twotypes
of child restraints can be used rearward facing: infant
carriers and “convertible” child seats.

•

The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the
vehicle. It is recommended for children who weigh up
to about 20 lbs (9 kg). “Convertible” child seats can be
used either rearward-facing or forward-facing in the
vehicle. Convertible child seats often have a higher
weight limit in the rearward-facing direction than
infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing
by children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) but are
less than one year old.

2

60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

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

•

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

•

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

(Some booster seats are equipped with a front shield
and are held in the vehicle by the lap portion.)

•

For additional information, refer to

www.seatcheck.org.

WARNING!

•

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

•

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61

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

•

Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it
has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety
Standards. The manufacturer recommends that you
try a child restraint in the vehicle seats where you will
use it before you buy it.

•

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

•

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

•

The passenger seat belts are equipped with either
cinching latch plates or automatic locking retractors,
which are designed to keep the lap portion tight
around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to

use a locking clip. If the seat belt has a cinching latch
plate, pulling up on the shoulder portion of the
lap/shoulder belt will tighten the belt. The cinching
latch plate will keep the belt tight, however, any seat
belt system will loosen with time, so check the belt
occasionally and pull it tight if necessary.

If the seat belt has a automatic locking retractor, it will
have a distinctive label. Pull the belt from the retractor
until there is enough to allow you to pass through the
child restraint and slide the latch plate into the buckle.
Then, pull the belt until it is all extracted from the
retractor. Allow the belt to return to the retractor,
pulling on the excess webbing to tighten the lap
portion about the child restraint. Refer to “Automatic
Locking Mode” earlier in this section.

•

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

2

62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

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

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

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

All three 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 installing child seats
in adjacent rear-seating positions or if your child re­straints are not LATCH-compatible, install the restraints
using the vehicle’s seat belts.

Installing the LATCH-Compatible Child Restraint
System

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

The rear seat lower anchorages are round bars, located at
the rear of the seat cushion where it meets the seat back,
and are just visible when you lean into the 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.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63

2

64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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

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

restraints will also be equipped with a tether strap, a
hook for attachment to the tether strap anchorage and a
means of adjusting the tension of the strap.

You will first loosen the adjusters on the lower straps
and on the tether strap so that you can more easily
attach the hooks or connectors to the vehicle anchor­ages. Next attach the lower hooks or connectors over
the top of the anchorage bars, pushing aside the seat
cover material. Then lift the tether anchorage cover
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. If your vehicle is equipped with adjustable
rear head restraints, raise the head restraint and, route
the tether strap under the head restraint and between
the two posts. Finally, tighten all three straps as you
push the child restraint rearward and downward into

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65

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 either cinch­ing latch plates or 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. The cinching latch plate will keep the belt tight,
however, any seat belt system will loosen with time, so
check the belt occasionally and pull it tight if necessary.

If the seat belt has a automatic locking retractor, it will
have a distinctive label. Pull the belt from the retractor
until there is enough to allow you to pass through the
child restraint and slide the latch plate into the buckle.
Then, pull the belt until it is all extracted from the
retractor. Allow the belt to return to the retractor, pulling
on the excess webbing to tighten the lap portion about
the child restraint. 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.

2

66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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:
Route the tether strap over the seat back 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 restraint between the head restraint posts.

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.

Children Too Large for Booster Seats

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

•

Make sure that the child is upright in the seat.

•

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

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67

•

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.

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.

2

68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

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

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

While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration, within the
limits of local traffic laws, contributes to a good break-in.
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.
The recommended viscosity and quality grades are
shown 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.

•

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 a extended period. If the vehicle is
stopped in an open area with engine running for more
than a short period, 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 ve­hicle. Otherwise poisonous gases could be drawn into
the vehicle.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 69

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle

Seat Belts

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

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

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

Airbag Warning Light

The light should come on and remain on for 6 to 8
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned on. If the bulb is not lit during starting, have the
system checked by an authorized dealer.

2

70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Defrosters

Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should feel the air
directed against the windshield.

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

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

▫ Inside Day/Night Mirror .................75

▫ Inside Automatic Dimming Mirror

If Equipped ..........................76

m Hands–Free Communication (UConnect™)

— If Equipped ..........................78

▫ Operation ............................80

▫ Phone Call Features ....................84

3

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

▫ Power Remote Control Outside Mirrors — If

Equipped ............................77

▫ Heated Remote Control Mirrors

— If Equipped ........................78

▫ Illuminated Vanity Mirrors — If Equipped ....78

▫ Advanced Phone Connectivity .............86

▫ UConnect™ System Features ..............87

m Seats .................................90

▫ Front Seat (Manual) Adjustment ............90

▫ Front Seat Adjustment — Recline ...........91

72 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

▫ Head Restraints .......................92

▫ Power Seat Adjuster — If Equipped .........93

▫ 65/35 Split Folding Rear Seat ..............94

▫ Heated Seats — If Equipped ..............97

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

m Lights ................................98

▫ Interior Lights ........................98

▫ Front Map/Reading Lights ..............100

▫ Multi-Function Control Lever .............100

▫ Parking Lights, Instrument Panel Lights, And

Headlights ..........................101

▫ High Beam/Low Beam Select Switch .......101

▫ Passing Light ........................101

▫ Turn Signals .........................101

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

▫ Battery Saver Feature — Exterior Lights .....102

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

▫ Daytime Running Lights — If Equipped .....102

▫ Light Bar — If Equipped ................103

m Windshield Wipers And Washers ............104

▫ Windshield Washers ...................105

▫ Mist Feature .........................106

▫ Windshield Wiper Operation .............106

▫ Intermittent Wiper System ...............107

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 73

m Electronic Speed Control ..................108

▫ To Activate ..........................108

▫ To Set At A Desired Speed ...............109

▫ To Deactivate ........................109

▫ To Resume Speed .....................109

▫ To Vary The Speed Setting ...............109

▫ To Accelerate For Passing ...............109

m Overhead Console — If Equipped ...........110

▫ Dome/Reading Lights ..................111

▫ Electronic Vehicle Information Center .......112

▫ Tire Pressure Monitor System .............113

▫ General Information ...................115

▫ Customer Programmable Features .........115

▫ Mini-Trip Computer ...................120

m Garage Door Opener — If Equipped .........125

▫ When Your Vehicle Is New ..............126

▫ Programming Homelink ................126

▫ Gate Operator/Canadian Programming .....129

▫ Using Homelink ......................130

m Power Sunroof — If Equipped .............130

▫ Express Open Feature ..................132

▫ Sunroof Maintenance ...................132

m Power Outlet ..........................133

m Cigar Lighter — If Equipped ...............135

m Glove Compartment .....................135

m Cup Holders ..........................136

3

74 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

▫ Smoker’s Package — If Equipped ..........136

m Cargo Area Features .....................137

▫ Cargo Light .........................137

▫ Retractable Cargo Area Cover

— If Equipped .......................137

▫ Cargo Tie-Down Hooks .................138

▫ Cargo Organizer — If Equipped ...........140

m Roof Luggage Rack .....................142

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

Annoying headlight glare from vehicles behind you can
be reduced by moving the small control under the mirror
to the night position (toward rear of vehicle).

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 75

3

76 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Inside Automatic Dimming Mirror — If Equipped

This mirror automatically adjusts for annoying headlight
glare from vehicles behind you. You can turn the feature
on or off by pressing the button at the base of the mirror.
A light in the button will indicate when the dimming
feature is activated.

CAUTION!

To avoid damage to the mirror during cleaning,
never spray any cleaning solution directly onto the
mirror. Apply the solution onto a clean cloth and
wipe the mirror clean.

Outside Mirrors

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 77

WARNING!

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

Power Remote Control Outside Mirrors — If
Equipped

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

Set the top switch to the left or right for the left or right
mirror, and set it to the center off position to prevent
accidentally moving a mirror when you are finished
adjusting the mirror. Press one of the four arrows for the
direction you want the mirror to move.

3

78 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Heated Remote Control Mirrors — If Equipped

These mirrors are heated to melt frost or ice. This
feature is activated whenever you turn on the rear

window defrost.

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors — If Equipped

An illuminated vanity mirror is on the sun visor. To use
the mirror, rotate the sun visor down and swing the
mirror cover upward. The lights turn on automatically.
Closing the mirror cover turns off the lights.

When the ignition is turned off, the light will turn off
automatically (after approximately 8 minutes).

HANDS–FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect™) —
IF EQUIPPED

UConnect™ is a voice-activated, hands-free, in-vehicle
communications system. UConnect™; allows you to dial
your cellular phone using simple voice commands (e.g.,
“Call Mike Work” or “Dial 248-555-1212”). Your cellular

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 79

phone’s audio is transmitted through your vehicle’s
stereo system; the system will automatically mute your
radio before receiving or sending a call.

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

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

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

3

The UConnect™ system can be used with any Hands
Free Profile certified Bluetooth™ cellular phone. If your

80 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

cellular phone has a different profile (i.e. headset profile),
you will not be able to use any UConnect™ features.

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

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

Operation

Voice commands can be used in the operation of the
UConnect™ system and to navigate through the UCon­nect™ menu structure. Voice commands should be given
after each UConnect™ system prompt. You will be
prompted for a specific command and then guided
through the available options. There aretwo ways to give
commands to the UConnect™ system:

•

You can say 9Dial9 at the 9Ready9 prompt. When

prompted for the phone number you wish to dial, say

the phone number (9123 456 78909).

•

Alternatively as you become familiar with the UCon-

nect™ system, you can combine the commands and

say 9Dial 123 456 78909.

Pairing a Cellular Phone to the UConnect™ System

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

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Phone Pairing9.

•

You will be asked to say a four-digit pin number into

the UConnect™ system which you will later need to

enter into your cellular phone during the cellular

phone pairing process. You can enter any four-digit

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 81

pin number. You will not need to remember this pin
number after the initial registration process.

•

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

•

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

•

You will then be asked to give your cellular phone a
priority level between 1 and 7, 1 having the highest
priority. You can connect up to seven cellular phones
to your UConnect™ system and the priority allows the
UConnect™ system to know which cellular phone to
use if multiple cellular phones are in the vehicle at the
same time. For example, if a priority 3 and priority 5
cellular phone are both in the vehicle, the UConnect™

system will use the priority 3 cellular phone when you

make a call. You can select to use a lower priority

cellular phone at any time.

Making a Phone Call Using Digit Dialing

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Dial9 or 9Call9 followed

by the phone number you wish to dial. For example,

you can say 9Dial 123 456 78909. The phone number

that you enter must be a valid length.

Making a Phone Call Using Your UConnect™
Phonebook

•

Press the “Phone” button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Dial9 or 9Call9 followed

by the name and designation of a phonebook entry

that you wish to dial. For example, you can say 9Call

John Doe Work9.

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82 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Add Names to Your UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the “Phone” button to begin.

•

•

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

•

When prompted, say the name of the new entry.

•

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

•

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

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

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

Edit Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook Edit9.

•

You will then be asked for the name of the phonebook

entry that you wish to edit.

•

Next, choose the number designation that you wish to

edit. The choices are home, work, mobile, or pager.

•

Recite the new phone number for the phonebook entry

that you are editing.
After you are finished editing an entry in the phonebook,

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 83

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

Delete Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook Delete9.

•

After you enter the phonebook delete menu, you will
then be asked for the name of the phonebook entry
that you wish to delete. You can either say the name of
a phonebook entry that you wish to delete or you can
say 9List Names9 to hear a list of the entries in the
phonebook from which you can choose. To select one
of the entries from the list, press the 9Voice Recogni­tion9 button while the UConnect™ system is playing
the desired entry and say 9Delete9.

•

After you enter the name, the UConnect™ system will

ask you if you wish to delete the home, work, mobile,

or pager number for this entry.

Delete All Entries in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

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

•

The UConnect™ system will ask you to verify that you

wish to delete all the entries from the phonebook.

•

After confirmation, the phonebook entries will be

deleted.

List All Names in the UConnect™ Phonebook

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Phonebook List

Names9.

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84 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

The selected number will be dialed.

Phone Call Features

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

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

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

Answer or Reject an Incoming Call - Call
Currently in Progress

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 85

Making a Second Call while Current Call in
Progress

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

Putting a Call on Hold and Retrieving a Call from
Hold

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

Toggling Between Two Calls

If two calls are in progress (one active and one on hold),
press the ’Phone’ button until you hear a single beep

indicating that the active and hold status of the two calls
have switched. Only one call can be placed on hold at one
time.

Conference Call

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

Three-Way Calling

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

Call Termination

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

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86 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Phone Redial

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Redial9.

•

The UConnect™ system will call the last number that
was dialed on your cellular phone. This may not be the
last number dialed by your UConnect™ system.

Advanced Phone Connectivity

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

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

Delete Paired Cellular Phones

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Phone Pairing9.

•

At the next prompt, say 9Delete9.

•

You will be asked to say the name of the phone that

you wish to delete. You can either say the name of the

phone that you wish to delete or you can say 9All9 to

delete all the phones.

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

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 87

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

List Paired Cellular Phone Names

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

•

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

Select a Lower Priority Paired Cellular Phone

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Select Phone9.

•

When prompted, say the phone name of the cellular
phone you wish to use, or say 9List Phones9 to hear a
list of all the phones that have been paired to your

UConnect™ system. To select a phone from the list,

press the ’Voice Recognition’ button and say 9Select9.

•

The lower priority phone will only be used for the next

phone call. After that, the UConnect™ system will

return to using the highest priority phone in the

vehicle.

UConnect™ System Features

Barge In - Touch Tone Phone Inputs

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

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88 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

pin. This method can also be used in instances where you
are pressing a number on your keypad to navigate
through a menu structure or to enter a number for a
pager.

Barge In - Overriding Prompts

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

Language Selection

To change the language that the UConnect™ system is
using, press the ’Phone’ button and say the name of the
language you wish to switch to (English, Español, or

Français as equipped). After selecting one of the lan­guages, all prompts and voice commands will be in the
selected language.

Turning Confirmation Prompts On/Off

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

•

Press the ’Phone’ button to begin.

•

After the 9Ready9 prompt, say 9Setup Confirmation9.

The UConnect™ system will play the current confir-

mation prompt status and you will be given the choice

to change it.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 89

Low Signal, Battery Strength, and Roam
Notification

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

Dialing Using the Cellular Phone Keypad

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

Mute/Unmute

When you mute the UConnect™ system, you will still be
able to hear the conversation coming from the other
party, but the other party will not be able to hear you. In
order to mute the UConnect™ system press the ’Voice

Recognition’ button and say 9Mute9. In order to unmute
the UConnect™ system; press the ’Voice Recognition’
button and say 9Unmute9.

Help

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

Cancel

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

Emergency Assistance

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

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90 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Towing Assistance

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

SEATS
Front Seat (Manual) Adjustment

Move the seat forward or rearward using the adjustment
bar. Lift up on the bar located on the front of the seat near
the floor. Position the seat and be sure the latch engages
fully.

Using body pressure, move forward and rearward on the
seat to be sure the seat adjusters have latched.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 91

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.

•

Do not ride with the seatback reclined so that the
seat belt is no longer resting against your chest. In
a collision you could slide under the seat belt and
be seriously or even fatally injured. Use the re­cliner only when the vehicle is parked.

Front Seat Adjustment — Recline

To adjust the seatback, lift the lever located on the
outboard side of the seat, lean back, and release the lever
at the desired position. To return the seatback, lift the
lever, lean forward, and release the lever.

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92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

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 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.

Power Seat Adjuster — If Equipped

WARNING!

Do not ride with the seatback reclined so that the
seat belt is no longer resting against your chest. In a
collision you could slide under the seat belt and be
seriously or even fatally injured. Use the recliner
only when the vehicle is parked.

6–Way Power Seat with Manual Recliner

The seat switch is on the outboard side of the seat near
the floor. Use this switch to move the seat up or down,
forward or rearward, or to tilt the seat.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 93

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94 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

This seat also has a manual recline lever located just to
the rear of the power seat switch. Pull up on the lever to
recline the seat.

65/35 Split Folding Rear Seat

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.

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

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 95

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 the 65/35 rear seat, perform the following
steps:

1. Locate the seatback releasehandle on the outboard top
side of each rear seatback; lift up on the handle, and
rotate the lever forward until the seatback releases. Fold
the seatback completely forward.

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96 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: When lifting up on the release handle, the
seatback will release easier if you do not pull forward on
the seatback; only lift up on the release handle until the
seatback disengages, then fold the seat forward.

When the seatback is folded completely forward, the
head restraints should be flush against the seat cushion.

To restore the 65/35 rear seat to the upright
position perform the following steps:

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.

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.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 97

Heated Seats — If Equipped

The heated seat switch is located on the outboard side of
the front seats. Pressing this switch to its desired setting
(HI or LO) will activate the respective heating element for
the heated seat.

Once the heated seat switch is activated, depressing it a
second time will de-activate it.

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD

To open the hood, two latches must be released. First pull
the hood release lever inside your vehicle located under
the left side of the instrument panel.

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98 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Then, reach under the hood and slide the safety latch to
the right and lift the hood.

To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to
close it. Lower the hood until it is open approximately 12
inches (30 cm) and then push hood closed. This should
secure both latches. Never drive your vehicle unless the
hood is fully closed, with both latches engaged.

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 lights will come on when a door is opened,
and when the rotating ring on the multi-function control
lever is in a position other than OFF. They may also be
turned on by rotating the control for the dimmer switch
on the multi-function control lever fully upward or by
pressing the “Unlock” button on the keyfob.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 99

The overhead lights will automatically turn off in about 8
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.

Rear Cargo Light

The rear cargo light includes an independent “On/Off”
switch, which when “off” will not allow the illumination
of any interior lighting when the rear swing gate or
flipper glass is opened. All other methods of turning the
interior lighting on/off will function normally regardless
of the rear cargo light switch position.

Dimmer Control

With the park lights or headlights on, rotating the control
for the dimmer switch on the multi-function control lever
upward will increase the brightness of the instrument
panel lights. Rotating the control completely upward
turns on the dome light.

Daytime Brightness Feature

Certain components (odometer, radio, etc.) 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 multi-function control
lever one detent lower than the dome light.

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100 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Front Map/Reading Lights

These lights are mounted in the overhead console. Each
light can be turned on by pressing the recessed area of the
lens. To turn these lights off, press the recessed area of the
lens a second time.

Multi-Function Control Lever

The multi-function control lever controls the operation of
the park lights, headlights, headlight beam selection,
passing light, fog lights, instrument panel light dimming,
and turn signals.