Dodge Ram Pickup 2023 Engine Overheat and Emergency User Manual

Emergency

HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS

The Hazard Warning Flashers button is located on the upper switch bank just below the radio.

Hazard Warning Flashers Button

Hazard Warning Flashers Button

NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with a 12–inch Uconnect display, the Hazard Warning Flashers button is located above the display.

Hazard Warning Flashers Button

Push the button to turn on the Hazard Warning Flashers. When the button is activated, all directional turn signals will flash on and off to warn oncoming traffic of an emergency. Push the button a second time to turn off the Hazard Warning Flashers.
This is an emergency warning system and it should not be used when the vehicle is in motion. Use only when your vehicle is disabled or signaling a safety hazard warning for other motorists.

When you must leave the vehicle to seek assistance, the Hazard Warning Flashers will continue to operate even though the ignition is placed in the OFF position.

NOTE:
With extended use the Hazard Warning Flashers may wear down your battery.

ASSIST AND SOS SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

If equipped, the overhead console may contain an ASSIST and an SOS button. Depending on the vehicles trim level, the overhead console may vary.

Assist And SOS Buttons

1 — ASSIST Button
2 — SOS Button

Assist And SOS Buttons

1 — ASSIST Button
2 — SOS Button

WARNING!
ALWAYS obey traffic laws and pay attention to the road. ALWAYS drive safely with your hands on the steering wheel. You have full responsibility and assume all risks related to the use of the Uconnect and SiriusXM Guardian™ features and applications in this vehicle. Only use Uconnect features and SiriusXM Guardian™ services when it is safe to do so. Failure to do so may result in an accident involving serious injury or death.

NOTE:

• The SOS and ASSIST buttons will only function if you are connected to an operable 4G (data) network, which comes as a built in feature. Other services will only be operable if your SiriusXM Guardian™ or Ram Connect service is active and you are connected to an operable 4G (data) network.

ASSIST Call
The ASSIST button is used to automatically connect you to any one of the following support centers:

• Roadside Assistance – If you get a flat tire, or need a tow, just push the ASSIST button to connect to someone who can help. Roadside Assistance will know what vehicle you’re driving and its location. Additional fees may apply for roadside assistance.
  SiriusXM Guardian™ Customer Care – In-vehicle support for SiriusXM Guardian™ (if equipped).
  Vehicle Customer Care – Total support for all other vehicle issues.
  Ram Connect Customer Care (if equipped) – Total support for Radio, Phone and NAV issues.

SOS Call

1. Push the SOS Call button on the overhead console.
   NOTE:
   In case the SOS Call button is pushed in error, there will be a 10 second delay before the SOS Call system initiates a call to an SOS operator. To cancel the SOS Call connection, push the SOS Call button on the overhead console or press the cancellation button on the Device Screen. Termination of the SOS Call will turn off the green LED light on the overhead console.
2. The LED light located within the ASSIST and SOS buttons on the overhead console will turn green once a connection to an SOS operator has been made. Once a connection between the vehicle and an SOS operator is made, the SOS Call system may transmit the following important vehicle information to an SOS operator:
3. Indication that the occupant placed an SOS Call.The vehicle brand.
4. The last known GPS coordinates of the vehicle.
5. You should be able to speak with the SOS operator through the vehicle audio system to determine if additional help is needed.
   WARNING!
   ALWAYS obey traffic laws and pay attention to the road. ALWAYS drive safely with your hands on the steering wheel. You have full responsibility and assume all risks related to the use of the Uconnect and SiriusXM Guardian™ features and applications in this vehicle. Only use Uconnect features and SiriusXM Guardian™ services when it is safe to do so. Failure to do so may result in an accident involving serious injury or death.
   NOTE:
   Your vehicle may be transmitting data as authorized by the subscriber.
   Once a connection is made between the vehicle’s SOS Call system and the SOS operator, the SOS operator may be able to open a voice connection with the vehicle to determine if additional help is needed. Once the SOS operator opens a voice connection with the vehicle’s SOS Call system, the operator should be able to speak with you or other vehicle occupants and hear sounds occurring in the vehicle. The vehicle’s SOS Call system will attempt to remain connected with the SOS operator until the SOS operator terminates the connection.
6. The SOS operator may attempt to contact appropriate emergency responders and provide them with important vehicle information and GPS coordinates.

WARNING!

• If anyone in the vehicle could be in danger (e.g., fire or smoke is visible, dangerous road conditions or location), do not wait for voice contact from an Emergency Services Agent. All occupants should exit the vehicle immediately and move to a safe location.
  Never place anything on or near the vehicle’s operable network and GPS antennas. You could prevent operable network and GPS signal reception, which can prevent your vehicle from placing an emergency call. An operable network and GPS signal reception is required for the SOS Call system to function properly.
  The SOS Call system is embedded into the vehicle’s electrical system. Do not add aftermarket electrical equipment to the vehicle’s electrical system. This may prevent your vehicle from sending a signal to initiate an emergency call. To avoid interference that can cause the SOS Call system to fail, never add aftermarket equipment (e.g., two-way mobile radio, CB radio, data recorder, etc.) to your vehicle’s electrical system or modify the antennas on your vehicle. IF YOUR VEHICLE LOSES BATTERY POWER FOR ANY REASON (INCLUDING DURING OR AFTER AN ACCI-DENT), THE UCONNECT OR RAM CONNECT FEATURES, APPS AND SERVICES, AMONG OTHERS, WILL NOT OPERATE.
  Modifications to any part of the SOS Call system could cause the air bag system to fail when you need it. You could be injured if the air bag system is not there to help protect you.

SOS Call System Limitations
Vehicles sold in Mexico DO NOT have SOS Call system capabilities.
SOS or other emergency line operators in Mexico may not answer or respond to SOS system calls.
If the SOS Call system detects a malfunction, any of the following may occur at the time the malfunction is detected, and at the beginning of each ignition cycle:

• The overhead console light located within the ASSIST and SOS buttons will continuously illuminate red.
• The Device Screen will display the following message: Vehicle Device Requires Service. Please contact an authorized dealer.
• An in-vehicle audio message will state “Vehicle Device Requires Service. Please contact an authorized dealer.”

WARNING!

• Ignoring the overhead console light could mean you will not have SOS Call services. If the overhead console light is illuminated, have an authorized dealer service the SOS Call system immediately.
  The Occupant Restraint Control module turns on the Air Bag Warning Light on the instrument panel if a malfunction in any part of the system is detected. If the Air Bag Warning Light is illuminated, have an authorized dealer service the Occupant Restraint Control system immediately.

Even if the SOS Call system is fully functional, factors beyond FCA US LLC’s control may prevent or stop the SOS Call system operation. These include, but are not limited to, the following factors:

• The ignition is in the OFF position.
  The vehicle’s electrical systems are not intact.
  The SOS Call system software and/or hardware are damaged during a crash.
  The vehicle battery loses power or becomes disconnected during a vehicle crash.
  4G (data) network and/or Global Positioning Satellite signals are unavailable or obstructed.
  Equipment malfunction at the SOS operator facility.
  Operator error by the SOS operator.
  4G (data) network congestion.
  Weather.
  Buildings, structures, geographic terrain, or tunnels.

WARNING!
ALWAYS obey traffic laws and pay attention to the road. ALWAYS drive safely with your hands on the steering wheel. You have full responsibility and assume all risks related to the use of the features and applications in this vehicle. Only use the features and applications when it is safe to do so. Failure to do so may result in an accident involving serious injury or death.

NOTE:

• Your vehicle may be transmitting data as authorized by the subscriber.
  Never place anything on or near the vehicle’s 4G (data) and GPS antennas. You could prevent 4G (data) and GPS signal reception, which can prevent your vehicle from placing an emergency call. An operable 4G (data) network connection and a GPS signal is required for the SOS Call system to function properly.

Automatic SOS — If Equipped
Automatic SOS is a hands-free safety service that can immediately connect you with help in the event that your vehicle’s airbags deploy. Please refer to your provided radio supplement for complete information.

JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING

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WARNING!

• Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of the vehicle close to moving traffic. Pull far enough off the road to avoid the danger of being hit when operating the jack or changing the wheel.
• Being under a jacked-up vehicle is dangerous. The vehicle could slip off the jack and fall on you. You could be crushed. Never put any part of your body under a vehicle that is on a jack. If you need to get under a raised vehicle, take it to a service center where it can be raised on a lift.
• Never start or run the engine while the vehicle is on a jack.
• The jack is designed to be used as a tool for changing tires only. The jack should not be used to lift the vehicle for service purposes. The vehicle should be jacked on a firm level surface only. Avoid ice or slippery areas.

NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with an air suspension system, there is a feature which allows the automatic leveling to be disabled to assist with changing a tire.
This feature can be activated through the Uconnect system  page 244.

PREPARATIONS FOR JACKING 

1. Park the vehicle on a firm, level surface as far  from the edge of the roadway as possible. Avoid icy or slippery areas.
   WARNING!
   Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of the vehicle close to moving traffic, pull far enough off the road to avoid being hit when operating the jack or changing the wheel.
2. Turn on the Hazard Warning Flashers.
3. Apply the parking brake.
4. Place the gear selector into PARK (automatic transmission) or FIRST gear (manual transmission).
5. Turn the ignition OFF.
6. Block both the front and rear of the wheel diagonally opposite the jacking position. For example, if the driver’s front wheel is being changed, block the passenger’s rear wheel.

Wheel Blocked Example

NOTE:
Passengers should not remain in the vehicle when the vehicle is being raised or lifted.

JACK LOCATION
The jack and tools are stored under the front passenger seat.

REMOVAL OF JACK AND TOOLS
To access the jack and tools, you must remove the plastic access cover located on the side of the front passenger’s seat. To remove the cover, pull the front part of the cover (closest to the front of the seat) toward you to release a locking tab. Once the front of the cover is loose, slide the cover toward the front of the seat until it is free from the seat frame.

Jack Access Cover

Remove the jack and tools by turning the wing bolt counterclockwise, remove the wing bolt and then slide the assembly out from under the seat.

Wing Bolt/Jack And Tools

Remove the jack and tools from the bracket assembly. Turn the jack turn-screw counterclockwise to release jack from bracket assembly.

Jack And Tools Bracket Assembly

Jacking Tools

There are two ways to assemble the tools:

Assembled For Spare Tire Lowering/Raising

Assembled For Spare Tire Lowering/Raising

1 — Lug Wrench
2 — Extension 2
3 — Extension 3
4 — Extension 4

CAUTION!

• The lug wrench can only be attached to extension two (2).
  When attaching the tool to the winch mechanism be sure the large flared end opening on extension four (4) is positioned correctly over the winch mechanism adjusting nut.
  Damage to the lug wrench, extensions and winch mechanism may occur from improper tool assembly.

Assembled For Jack Operation

Assembled For Jack Operation

1.  Lug Wrench
2. Extension 2
3. Extension 3
4. Extension 4
5. Jack Driver

WARNING!
After using the jack and tools, always reinstall them in the original carrier and location. While driving you may experience abrupt stopping, rapid acceleration or sharp turns. A loose jack, tools, bracket or other objects in the vehicle may move around with force, resulting in serious injury.

REMOVING THE SPARE TIRE

1. Remove the spare tire before attempting to jack up the truck. Attach the lug wrench to the extension tubes with the curved angle facing away from the vehicle. Insert the extension tubes through the access hole between the lower tailgate and the top of the fascia/bumper and into the winch mechanism tube.Winch Mechanism Tube
   Inserting The Extension Tubes Into The Access Hole
2. Rotate the lug wrench handle counterclockwise until the spare tire is on the ground with enough cable slack to allow you to pull it out from under the vehicle.
   Pulling The Spare Tire Out
3. Pull the spare tire out from under the vehicle to gain access to the spare tire retainer.
4. Lift the spare tire with one hand to give clearance to tilt the retainer at the end of the cable.
   Removing The Retainer
5. Pull the retainer through the center of the wheel.

NOTE:
The winch mechanism is designed for use with the extension tubes only. Use of an air wrench or other power tools is not recommended and can damage the winch.

JACKING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING!
Carefully follow these tire changing warnings to help prevent personal injury or damage to your vehicle:

• Always park on a firm, level surface as far from the edge of the roadway as possible before raising the vehicle.
  Turn on the Hazard Warning Flashers.
  Apply the parking brake firmly and set the transmission in PARK.
  Block the wheel diagonally opposite the wheel to be raised.
  Never start or run the engine with the vehicle on a jack.
  Do not let anyone sit in the vehicle when it is on a jack.
  Do not get under the vehicle when it is on a jack. If you need to get under a raised vehicle, take it to a service center where it can be raised on a lift.
  Only use the jack in the positions indicated and for lifting this vehicle during a tire change.
  If working on or near a roadway, be extremely careful of motor traffic.
  To assure that spare tires, flat or inflated, are securely stowed, spares must be stowed with the valve stem facing the ground.

Jack Warning Label

Lug Wrench Adapter Location

See the following steps for proper jacking and tire removal:

1. Remove the spare wheel, jack, and tools from storage.
2. Using the lug wrench, loosen, but do not remove, the wheel nuts by turning them counterclockwise one turn while the wheel is still on the ground. Changing a dually tire requires the lug wrench adapter.
   NOTE:
   If your vehicle is equipped with hub caps/wheel covers they must be removed before raising the vehicle off the ground Ú page 360.
   Lug Wrench Adapter
   Lug Wrench Adapter And Wrench
3. Place the assembled jack and tools into the jacking position.
   NOTE:
   Placement for the front and rear jacking locations are critical. Keep the jack and tools aligned while raising the vehicle to prevent tool damage. See the following images for proper jacking locations.
   Jack / Extensions Placement
   CAUTION!
   Do not attempt to raise the vehicle by jacking on locations other than those indicated in the Jacking Instructions for this vehicle.
   Front Jacking Location
   When changing the front wheel, assemble the jack driver to the jack and connect the jack driver to the extension tubes. Place the jack under the axle as close to the tire as possible with the drive tubes ex-tending to the front. Connect the extension tubes and lug wrench.
   Front Lifting Point
   
   Front Jacking Location
   Rear Jacking Location
   When changing a rear wheel, assemble the jack driver to the jack and connect the jack driver to the extension tubes. Place the jack under the axle between the spring and the shock absorber with the extension tubes extending to the rear.
   Rear Lifting Point
   Rear Jacking Location
   CAUTION!
   Before raising the wheel off the ground, make sure that the jack will not damage surrounding truck parts and adjust the jack position as required.
4. Connect the extension tubes and lug wrench.
5. By rotating the lug wrench clockwise, raise the vehicle until the wheel just clears the surface.
   WARNING!
   Raising the vehicle higher than necessary can make the vehicle less stable. It could slip off the jack and hurt someone near it. Raise the vehicle only enough to remove the tire.
6. Remove the lug nuts and pull the wheel off. On Single Rear Wheel (SRW) trucks, install the spare wheel and lug nuts with the cone shaped end of the wheel nuts toward the wheel. On 3500 Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) trucks, if the outer tire is being replaced then leave the inner wheel on the vehicle. If the inner wheel is being replaced remove the outer wheel and replace the inner wheel. The wheel nuts are a two-piece assembly with a flat face. Lightly tighten the lug nuts. To avoid the risk of forcing the vehicle off the jack, do not fully tighten the lug nuts until the vehicle has been lowered.
   Rear Inner Wheel Proper Placement (Dual Rear Wheel Equipped)
   Dual Rear Wheel Jack Placement
7. Finish tightening the lug nuts. Push down on the lug wrench while at the end of the handle for increased leverage. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern until each nut has been tightened twice Ú page 438. If in doubt about the correct tightness, have them checked with a torque wrench by an authorized dealer or service station.
   WARNING!
   A loose tire or jack thrown forward in a collision or hard stop, could endanger the occupants of the vehicle. Always stow the jack parts and the spare tire in the places provided.
8. Install the wheel center cap and remove the wheel blocks. Do not install chrome or aluminum wheel center caps on the spare wheel. This may result in cap damage.
9. Lower the jack to its fully closed position. Stow the replaced tire, jack, and tools as previously described.
   NOTE:
   The bottle jack will not lower by turning the dial (thumb-wheel) by hand, it may be necessary to use the jack driver in order to lower the jack.
10. Adjust the tire pressure when possible.

NOTE:
Do not oil wheel studs. For chrome wheels, do not substitute with chrome plated lug nuts.

TO STOW THE FLAT OR SPARE

1. Lift the spare tire with one hand to give clearance to tilt the retainer at the end of the cable and position it properly across the wheel opening.
2. Position the wheel behind the rear fascia/bumper facing outward. Push the end of the winch’s cable, spring and steel sleeve through the back of the road wheel. Making sure the valve stem is facing the ground when the wheel is stowed.
   Reinstalling The Retainer
3. Lay the wheel flat after the retainer is installed.
4. Attach the lug wrench to the extension tubes with the curved angle facing away from the vehicle. Insert the extensions through the access hole between the lower tailgate and the top of the fascia/bumper and into the winch mechanism tube.
   CAUTION!
   The winch mechanism is designed for use with the jack extension tubes only. Use of an air wrench or other power tools is not recommended and can damage the winch.
   Stowing The Flat Or Spare
5. Rotate the lug wrench handle clockwise until the wheel is drawn into place against the underside of the vehicle. Continue to rotate until you feel the winch mechanism slip, or click three or four times. It cannot be overtightened. Push against the tire several times to ensure it is firmly in place.

NOTE:
Have the flat tire repaired or replaced immediately.
A loose tire or jack thrown forward in a collision or hard stop could endanger the occupants of the vehicle. Always stow the jack parts and the spare tire in the places provided. Have the deflated (flat) tire repaired or replaced immediately.

REINSTALLING THE JACK AND TOOLS

1. Tighten the jack all the way down by turning the jack turn-screw counterclockwise until the jack is snug.
2. Position the jack and tools into bracket assembly. Make sure the lug wrench is under the jack near the jack turn-screw. Snap tools into bracket assembly clips. Install the jack into bracket assembly and turn the jack turn-screw clockwise until jack is snug into bracket assembly.
   Jack And Tools Bracket Assembly
3. Place the jack and tool bracket assembly in the storage position holding the jack by the jack
   turn-screw, slip the jack and tools under the seat so that the bottom slot engages into the fastener on the floor.
   Jack Hold Down Fastener
   NOTE:
   Ensure that the jack and tool bracket assembly slides into the front hold down location.
4. Turn the wing bolt clockwise to secure to the floor pan. Reinstall the plastic cover.

Wing Bolt/Jack And Tools

HUB CAPS/WHEEL COVERS — IF EQUIPPED
The hub caps must be removed before raising the vehicle off the ground.

CAUTION!
Use extreme caution when removing the front and rear wheel covers. Damage can occur to the center cap and/or the wheel if screwdriver type tools are used. A pulling motion, not a pry off motion, is recommended to remove the caps. For 2500/3500 Single Rear Wheel (SRW) models, use the flat end of the lug wrench to hook and pull off the hub cap. Find the opening in the hub cap, insert the lug wrench, and pull off the cap. If you need to pry against the wheel, protect the wheel surface.

Lug Wrench Insertion Location — Hub Cap

On 3500 models with Dual Rear Wheels (DRW), you must first remove the hub caps—use the procedure noted for the single rear wheel. For the wheel covers (wheel skins), insert the flat end of the lug wrench between the outer edge of the wheel cover and the wheel. Pry against the wheel to remove the wheel cover. Repeat this procedure around the wheel until the cover pops off.

Lug Wrench Insertion Location — Wheel Cover

CAUTION!

• Use a pulling motion to remove the hub cap. Do not use a twisting motion when removing the hub cap, damage to the hub cap; finish may occur.
  The rear hub caps on the dual rear wheel has two pull off notches. Make sure that the hook of the jack handle driver is located squarely in the cap notch before attempting to pull off.

Replace the wheel covers using a rubber mallet to ease the installation. Align the wheel cover vent holes to the wheel vent holes. Tap on the wheel cover as needed to firmly seat it evenly around the wheel.

JUMP STARTING

If your vehicle has a discharged battery, it can be jump started using a set of jumper cables and a battery in another vehicle, or by using a portable battery booster pack. Jump starting can be dangerous if done improperly, so please follow the procedures in this section carefully.

WARNING!
Do not attempt jump starting if the battery is frozen. It could rupture or explode and cause personal injury.

CAUTION!
Do not use a portable battery booster pack or any other booster source with a system voltage greater than 12 Volts or damage to the battery, starter motor, alternator or electrical system may occur.

NOTE:
When using a portable battery booster pack, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and precautions.

PREPARATIONS FOR JUMP START
The battery in your vehicle is located in the front of the engine compartment, behind the driver side headlight assembly.
If you have a diesel engine, you may have two batteries, jump start off the driver side battery.

Battery Location

If equipped, the positive battery post may be covered with a protective cap. Lift up on the cap to gain access to the positive battery post. Do not jump off fuses. Only jump directly off positive post which has a positive (+) symbol on or around the post.

1. Apply the parking brake, shift the automatic transmission into PARK and turn the ignition OFF.
2. Turn off the heater, radio, and all electrical accessories.
3. If using another vehicle to jump start the battery, park the vehicle within the jumper cables reach apply the parking brake, make sure the ignition is OFF.

WARNING!

• Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan whenever the hood is raised. It can start anytime the ignition switch is ON. You can be injured by moving fan blades.
• Remove any metal jewelry such as rings, watch bands and bracelets that could make an inadvertent electrical contact. You could be seriously injured.
  Batteries contain sulfuric acid that can burn your skin or eyes and generate hydrogen gas which is flammable and explosive. Keep open flames or sparks away from the battery.
  Do not allow vehicles to touch each other as this could establish a ground connection and personal injury could result.

• JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE

WARNING!
Failure to follow this jump starting procedure could result in personal injury or property damage due to battery explosion.

CAUTION!
Failure to follow these procedures could result in damage to the charging system of the booster vehicle or the discharged vehicle.

Connecting The Jumper Cables

1. Connect the positive (+) end of the jumper cable to the remote positive (+) post of the discharged vehicle.
   NOTE:
   Do not jump off fuses. Only jump directly off positive post.
2. Connect the opposite end of the positive (+) jumper cable to the positive (+) post of the booster battery.
3. Connect the negative (-) end of the jumper cable to the negative (-) post of the booster battery.
4. Connect the opposite end of the negative (-) jumper cable to a good engine ground. A “ground” is an exposed metallic/unpainted part of the engine, frame or chassis, such as an accessory bracket or large bolt. The ground must be away from the battery and the fuel injection system.
   Jump Starting Label
   WARNING!
   Do not connect the jumper cable to the negative (-) post of the discharged battery. The resulting electrical spark could cause the battery to explode and could result in personal injury.
5. Start the engine in the vehicle that has the booster battery, let the engine idle a few minutes, and then start the engine in the vehicle with the discharged battery.
   CAUTION!
   Do not connect jumper cable to any of the fuses on the positive battery terminal. The resulting electrical current will blow the fuse.
6. Once the engine is started, see the following disconnection procedure.

Disconnecting The Jumper Cables

1. Disconnect the negative (-) end of the jumper cable from the remote negative (-) post of the vehicle with the discharged battery.
2. Disconnect the opposite end of the negative (-) jumper cable from the negative (-) post of the booster battery.
3. Disconnect the positive (+) end of the jumper cable from the positive (+) post of the booster battery.
4. Disconnect the opposite end of the positive (+) jumper cable from the remote positive (+) post of the vehicle with the discharged battery, and reinstall the protective cap.

If frequent jump starting is required to start your vehicle you should have the battery and charging system inspected at an authorized dealer.

CAUTION!
Accessories plugged into the vehicle power outlets draw power from the vehicle’s battery, even when not in use (i.e., cellular devices, etc.). Eventually, if plugged in long enough without engine operation, the vehicle’s battery will discharge sufficiently to degrade battery life and/or prevent the engine from starting.

GEAR SELECTOR OVERRIDE 6 SPEED TRANSMISSION

If a malfunction occurs and the gear selector cannot be moved out of the PARK position, you can use the following procedure to temporarily move the gear selector:

1. Turn the engine OFF.
2.  Firmly apply the parking brake.
3. Tilt the steering wheel to the full up position.
4. Press and maintain firm pressure on the brake pedal.
5. Insert a screwdriver or similar tool into the access port (ringed circle) on the bottom of the steering column, and push and hold the override release lever up.
   Gear Selector Override Access Port Location
   Gear Selector Override Access Port
   Engaging The Access Port
6. Move the gear selector to the NEUTRAL position.
7. The vehicle may then be started in NEUTRAL.

MANUAL PARK RELEASE
8–SPEED TRANSMISSION

WARNING!
Always secure your vehicle by fully applying the parking brake before activating the Manual Park Release. In addition, you should be seated in the driver’s seat with your foot firmly on the brake pedal when activating the Manual Park Release. Activating the Manual Park Release will allow your vehicle to roll away if it is not secured by the parking brake, or by proper connection to a tow vehicle. Activating the Manual Park Release on an unsecured vehicle could lead to serious injury or death for those in or around the vehicle.

To push or tow the vehicle in cases where the transmission will not shift out of PARK (such as a depleted battery), a Manual Park Release is available.
To activate the Manual Park Release see the following steps:

1. Firmly apply the parking brake.
2. Using a small screwdriver or similar tool, remove the Manual Park Release access cover, which is just above the parking brake release handle, below and to the left of the steering column. Manual Park Release Cover
3. Using the screwdriver or similar tool, push the Manual Park Release lever locking tab (just below the middle of the lever) to the right.
4. Latch
5. While holding the locking tab in the disengaged position, pull the tether strap to rotate the lever rearward, until it locks in place pointing towards the driver’s seat. Release the locking tab and verify that the Manual Park Release lever is locked in the released position.
   Manual Park Release Tether
6. The vehicle is now out of PARK and can be towed. Release the parking brake only when the vehicle is securely connected to a tow vehicle.

To Reset The Manual Park Release:

1. Push the locking tab to the right, to unlock the lever.
2. Rotate the Manual Park Release lever forward to its original position, until the locking tab snaps into place to secure the lever.
3. Pull gently on the tether strap to confirm that the lever is locked in its stowed position.
   Manual Park Release Tether In Stowed Position
4. Reinstall the access cover.

IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS

If the vehicle is overheating, it will need to be serviced by an authorized dealer.

Potential signs of vehicle overheating:

• Temperature gauge is at HOT (H)
   Strong smell of coolant
  White smoke coming from engine or exhaust
  Coolant bottle coolant has bubbles present

WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from your radiator. If you see or hear steam coming from under the hood, do not open the hood until the radiator has had time to cool. Never try to open a cooling system pressure cap when the radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
If the temperature gauge is moving towards or close to the HOT (H) position, you can reduce the potential for overheating by taking the appropriate action.

• On highways — slow down.
  In city traffic — while stopped, place the transmission in NEUTRAL (N), but do not increase the engine idle speed while preventing vehicle motion with the brakes.
  Turn off the A/C. The A/C system adds heat to the engine cooling system and turning the A/C off can help remove this heat.
  Turn the temperature control to maximum heat, the mode control to floor and the blower control to high. This allows the heater core to act as a supplement to the radiator and aids in removing heat from the engine cooling system.

CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could damage your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads HOT (H), pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into the normal range. If the pointer remains on HOT (H), and you hear continuous chimes, turn the engine off immediately and call for service.

FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE

If your vehicle becomes stuck in mud, sand, or snow, it can often be moved using a rocking motion. Turn the steering wheel right and left to clear the area around the front wheels. For vehicles with automatic transmission, push and hold the lock button on the gear selector. Then shift back and forth between DRIVE and REVERSE (with automatic transmission) or FIRST gear and REVERSE (with manual transmission), while gently pressing the accelerator. Use the least amount of accelerator pedal pressure that will maintain the rocking motion, without spinning the wheels or racing the engine.

NOTE:

• For trucks equipped with an 8–speed transmission, shifts between DRIVE and REVERSE can only be achieved at wheel speeds of 5 mph (8 km/h) or less. Whenever the transmission remains in NEUTRAL (N) for more than two seconds, you must press the brake pedal to engage DRIVE or REVERSE.
  Push the ESC OFF button to place the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system in “Partial OFF” mode, before rocking the vehicle Ú page 297. Once the vehicle has been freed, push the ESC OFF button again to restore “ESC On” mode.

WARNING!
Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces generated by excessive wheel speeds may cause damage, or even failure, of the axle and tires. A tire could explode and injure someone. Do not spin your vehicle’s wheels faster than 30 mph (48 km/h) or for longer than 30 seconds continuously without stopping when you are stuck and do not let anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter what the speed.

CAUTION!

•  Racing the engine or spinning the wheels may lead to transmission overheating and failure. Allow the engine to idle with the transmission in NEUTRAL for at least one minute after every five rocking-motion cycles. This will minimize overheating and reduce the risk of transmission failure during prolonged efforts to free a stuck vehicle.
• When “rocking” a stuck vehicle by shifting between DRIVE / FIRST gear and REVERSE, do not spin the wheels faster than 15 mph  (24 km/h), or drivetrain damage may result.
• Revving the engine or spinning the wheels too fast may lead to transmission overheating and failure. It can also damage the tires. Do not spin the wheels above 30 mph (48 km/h) while in gear (no transmission shifting occurring).

TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE

This section describes procedures for towing a disabled vehicle using a commercial towing service.
If the transmission and drivetrain are operable, disabled 4×4 vehicles may also be towed as  described under page 219.

Towing Condition	Wheels OFF The Ground	Two-Wheel Drive Models	Four-Wheel Drive Models
Flat Tow	NONE	NOT ALLOWED	See Instructions Automatic transmission in PARK Transfer case in N (Neutral) Tow in forward direction
Dolly Tow	Front	NOT ALLOWED	NOT ALLOWED
	Rear	OK	NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer	ALL	OK	OK

Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to prevent damage to your vehicle. Use only tow bars and other equipment designed for this purpose, following equipment manufacturer’s instructions. Use of safety chains is mandatory. Attach a tow bar or other towing device to main structural members of the vehicle, not to fascia/bumpers or associated brackets. State and local laws regarding vehicles under tow must be observed.
If you must use the accessories (wipers, defrosters, etc.) while being towed, the ignition must be in the ON/RUN mode, not the ACC mode. If the key fob is unavailable or the vehicle’s battery is discharged, find Instructions on shifting the transmission out of PARK page 363.

CAUTION!

• Do not use sling type equipment when towing. Vehicle damage may occur.
  When securing the vehicle to a flat bed truck, do not attach to front or rear suspension components. Damage to your vehicle may result from improper towing.

TWO-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
FCA US LLC recommends towing your vehicle with all four wheels OFF the ground using a flatbed.
If flatbed equipment is not available, and the transmission is operable, the vehicle may be towed (with rear wheels OFF the ground) under the following conditions:

• The transmission must be in NEUTRAL (N). Instructions on shifting the transmission to NEUTRAL (N) when the engine is off page 363.
  The towing speed must not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
  The towing distance must not exceed 30 miles (48 km) for 8–speed transmission.
  The towing distance must not exceed 15 miles (24 km) for 6–speed transmission.

If the transmission is not operable, or the vehicle must be towed faster than 30 mph (48 km/h) or farther than 30 miles (48 km), tow with the rear wheels OFF the ground. Acceptable methods to tow the vehicle on a flatbed are as follows:

The front wheels raised and the rear wheels on a towing dolly
Using a suitable steering wheel stabilizer to hold the front wheels in the straight position with the rear wheels raised when and the front wheels ON the ground.

CAUTION!
Towing this vehicle in violation of the approved requirements can cause severe transmission damage. Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
FCA US LLC recommends towing with all wheels OFF the ground. Acceptable methods are to tow the vehicle on a flatbed or with one end of the vehicle raised and the opposite end on a towing dolly.

CAUTION!
Front or rear wheel lifts must not be used (if the remaining wheels are on the ground). Internal damage to the transmission or transfer case will occur if a front or rear wheel lift is used when towing.
Towing this vehicle in violation of the above requirements can cause severe transmission and/or transfer case damage. Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

EMERGENCY TOW HOOKS IF EQUIPPED

Your vehicle may be equipped with emergency tow hooks.

NOTE:
For off-road recovery, it is recommended to use both of the front tow hooks to minimize the risk of damage to the vehicle.

 

WARNING!

• Do not use a chain for freeing a stuck vehicle. Chains may break, causing serious injury or death.
  Stand clear of vehicles when pulling with tow hooks. Tow straps may become disengaged, causing serious injury.

CAUTION!
Tow hooks are for emergency use only, to rescue a vehicle stranded off-road. Do not use tow hooks for tow truck hookup or highway towing. You could damage your vehicle.

ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE SYSTEM (EARS)

This vehicle is equipped with an Enhanced Accident Response System.
This feature is a communication network that takes effect in the event of an impact  page 328.

EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR)

This vehicle is equipped with an Event Data Recorder
(EDR). The main purpose of an EDR is to record data that will assist in understanding how a vehicle’s systems performed under certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as an air bag deployment or hitting a road obstacle  page 330.

Reference Link

View Full PDF: Dodge Ram Pickup 2023 User Manual | Auto User Guide
Download Link: Owner’s Manuals & User Guides | Dodge