Download PDF Manual

0 S


2009


OWNER’S MANUAL


VEHICLES SOLD IN CANADA With respect to any Vehicles Sold in Canada, the name Chrysler LLC shall be deemed to be deleted and the name Chrysler Canada Inc. used in substitution therefor. DRIVING AND ALCOHOL Drunken driving is one of the most frequent causes of accidents. Your driving ability can be seriously impaired with blood alcohol levels far below the legal minimum. If you are drinking, don’t drive. Ride with a designated non-drinking driver, call a cab, a friend, or use public transportation.


WARNING!


Driving after drinking can lead to an accident. Your perceptions are less sharp, your reflexes are slower, and your judgment is impaired when you have been drinking. Never drink and then drive.


This manual illustrates and describes the operation of features and equipment that are either standard or op- tional on this vehicle. This manual may also include a description of features and equipment that are no longer available or were not ordered on this vehicle. Please disregard any features and equipment described in this manual that are not on this vehicle. Chrysler LLC reserves the right to make changes in design and specifications, and/or make additions to or improvements to its products without imposing any obligation upon itself to install them on products previ- ously manufactured.


Copyright © 2008 Chrysler LLC


SECTION


TABLE OF CONTENTS


PAGE


INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9


UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199


STARTING AND OPERATING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303


WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .377


MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 393


MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 441


IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .459


10


INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 469


10


INTRODUCTION


CONTENTS


䡵 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
䡵 How To Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
䡵 Warnings And Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6


䡵 Vehicle Identification Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
䡵 Vehicle Modifications/Alterations . . . . . . . . . . . . 7


HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL Consult the Table of Contents to determine which section contains the information you desire. The detailed Index at the back of this Owner’s Manual contains a complete listing of all subjects. Consult the following table for a description of the symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout this Owner’s Manual:


4 INTRODUCTION


INTRODUCTION This Owner’s Manual has been prepared with the assis- tance of service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your vehicle. It is supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and various customer-oriented documents. You are urged to read these publications carefully. Following the instructions and recommendations in this manual will help assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle. NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be aware of all safety warnings. When it comes to service, remember that your authorized dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained technicians and genuine Mopar威 parts, and is interested in your satisfaction.


INTRODUCTION 5


6 INTRODUCTION


WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS This Owner’s Manual contains WARNINGS against op- erating procedures that could result in an accident or bodily injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against proce- dures that could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do not read this entire manual, you may miss important information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.


VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is on the left front corner of the instrument panel. The VIN is 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, the vehicle registration, and the title.


NOTE:


It is illegal to remove the VIN.


VIN Location


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.


INTRODUCTION 7


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


CONTENTS


䡵 A Word About Your Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
▫ Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
▫ FOB With Integrated Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
▫ Ignition Key Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
䡵 Sentry Key威 Immobilizer System . . . . . . . . . . . 15
▫ Replacement Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
▫ Customer Key Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
▫ General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18


䡵 Vehicle Security Alarm System — If Equipped . . 18
▫ Rearming Of The System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
▫ To Arm The System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
▫ To Disarm The System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
䡵 Illuminated Entry System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
䡵 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
▫ To Unlock The Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
▫ To Lock The Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
▫ To Unlatch The Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22


10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


▫ Using The Panic Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
▫ Programming Additional Transmitters . . . . . . 23
▫ RKE Transmitter Battery Service . . . . . . . . . . . 23
▫ General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
䡵 Remote Starting System — If Equipped . . . . . . . 25
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
䡵 Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
▫ Manual Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
▫ Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
▫ Passive Entry System — If Equipped . . . . . . . 31
▫ To Place An RKE Transmitter In The Vehicle


▫ How To Use Remote Start


For Safekeeping – Vehicles Equipped With Keyless Go Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
▫ Child Protection Door Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33


䡵 Windows


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
▫ Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
▫ Wind Buffeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
䡵 Trunk Lock And Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
䡵 Trunk Safety Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
▫ Trunk Emergency Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
䡵 Occupant Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
▫ Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure . . . . 48
▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
▫ Enhanced Seat Belt Reminder System


(BeltAlert威)


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
▫ Automatic Locking Mode — If Equipped . . . . 50


▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women . . . . . . . . . . 51
▫ Seat Belt Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
▫ Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental


Restraint System (SRS) - Airbag . . . . . . . . . . . 51
▫ Event Data Recorder (EDR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
▫ Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
䡵 Engine Break-In Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . 75
䡵 Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11


▫ Transporting Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
▫ Lock Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
▫ Exhaust Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The


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


▫ Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make


Outside The Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78


12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS Your vehicle uses a keyless ignition system. This system consists of a Fob with Integrated Key and a Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) with integral ignition switch. You can insert the double-sided integrated key into the igni- tion switch with either side up. Keyless Go Feature This vehicle may be equipped with the Keyless Go feature, for more information, refer to “Keyless Go — If Equipped” under “Starting Procedure” in Section 5 of this manual. Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) The Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) operates similar to an ignition switch. It has four operating positions, three with detents and one that is spring-loaded. The detent posi- tions are LOCK, ACC, and ON. The START position is a spring-loaded momentary contact position. When re- leased from the START position, the switch automatically returns to the ON position.


Wireless Ignition Node (WIN)


1 — LOCK 2 — ACC (ACCESSORY) 3 — ON 4 — START


Fob with Integrated Key The Fob with Integrated Key (FOBIK) operates the igni- tion switch. It also contains the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and a valet key, which stores in the rear of the Fob. The valet key allows for entry into the vehicle should the battery in the vehicle or the Fob go dead. The valet key is also for locking the glove box. You can keep the valet key with you when valet parking. To remove the valet key from the Fob, slide the mechani- cal latch at the top of the Fob sideways with your thumb and then pull the key out of the Fob with your other hand.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13


Valet Key Removal


NOTE: You can insert the double-sided valet key into the lock cylinders with either side up.


14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


Ignition Key Removal Place the shift lever in PARK. Turn the key to the LOCK position and then remove the key. NOTE: The power window switches, radio, power sunroof (if equipped), and power outlets will remain active for up to 60 minutes after the ignition switch is turned to the LOCK position. Opening either front door will cancel this feature. The time for this feature is programmable. Refer to “Delay Power Off to Accessories Until Exit,” under “Personal Settings (Customer- Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle In- formation Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.


WARNING!


Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seri- ously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the key in the ignition. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.


CAUTION!


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


Key-In-Ignition Reminder If you open the driver’s door and the key is in the ignition, a chime will sound to remind you to remove the key.


The Key-In-Ignition reminder only sounds NOTE: when the ignition key is placed in the LOCK or ACC position.


SENTRY KEY姞 IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM The Sentry Key威 Immobilizer system prevents unautho- rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked. The system uses the factory-mated Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter with integrated key and Wireless Igni- tion Node (WIN) to prevent unauthorized vehicle opera- tion. Therefore, only RKE transmitters that are pro- grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two seconds if an invalid RKE transmitter is used to start the engine.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15


After turning the ignition switch to the ON position, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used an invalid RKE transmitter to start the engine. Either of these conditions will result in the engine being shut off after two seconds. If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10 sec- onds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible. NOTE: • The Sentry Key威 Immobilizer system is not compatible with aftermarket remote starting systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection.


16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


• Exxon/Mobil Speedpass™, additional RKE transmit- ters, or any other transponder-equipped components on the same key chain will not cause a fault unless the additional part is physically held against the RKE transmitter being used to start the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other Radio Frequency (RF) elec- tronics will not cause interference with this system.


All of the RKE transmitters provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics. Replacement Keys


NOTE: Only RKE transmitters that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle. Once an RKE transmitter is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle.


CAUTION!


Always remove the keys from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.


At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided with a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). Keep the PIN in a secure location. This number is required for authorized dealer replacement of RKE trans- mitters. Duplication of RKE transmitters may be per- formed at an authorized dealer or by using the Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure consists of programming a blank RKE transmitter to the vehicle electronics. A blank RKE transmitter is one that has never been programmed. NOTE: When having the Sentry Key威 Immobilizer system serviced, bring all vehicle RKE transmitters with you to an authorized dealer.


Customer Key Programming If you have two valid RKE transmitters with integrated keys, you can program new RKE transmitters to the system by performing the following procedure: 1. Insert the first valid integrated key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch to the ON position for at least three seconds, but no longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the first key. 2. Insert the second valid integrated key and turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds, a chime will sound and the Vehicle Security Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the second key. 3. Insert a blank integrated key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17


and the Vehicle Security Light will stop flashing, turn on again for three seconds, and then turn off. The new integrated key is programmed. The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter will also be pro- grammed during this procedure. Repeat this procedure to program up to eight keys. If you do not have a programmed RKE transmitter with inte- grated key, contact your authorized dealer for details. If a programmed key is lost, see your authorized NOTE: dealer to have all remaining keys erased from the sys- tem’s memory. This will prevent the lost key from starting your vehicle. The remaining keys must then be reprogrammed. All vehicle keys must be taken to an authorized dealer at service to be reprogrammed.


the time of


18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


General Information The Sentry Key威 system complies with FCC rules Part 15
and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. • This device must accept any interference that may be received, including interference that may cause undes- ired operation.


VEHICLE SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED The Vehicle Security Alarm system monitors the vehicle doors for unauthorized entry and the ignition switch for unauthorized operation. If something triggers the alarm, the system will prevent the vehicle from starting and provide the following audible and visible signals: the horn will pulse; the headlights will flash; the park lights will flash; and the Vehicle Security Light in the instru- ment cluster will flash.


Rearming of the System If something triggers the alarm, and no action is taken to disarm it, the system will turn the horn off after three minutes, turn all of the visual signals off after 15 minutes, and then the system will rearm itself. To Arm the System Remove the key from the ignition switch and either press a power door LOCK switch while the driver or passenger door is open or press the LOCK button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. After the last door is closed, or if all doors are closed, the system will arm itself in about 16 seconds. During that time, the Vehicle Secu- rity Light will flash. If it does not illuminate, the system is not arming. In addition, if you open a door during the arming period, the system will cancel the arming process. If you wish to rearm the system after closing the door, you must repeat one of the previously-described arming sequences.


To Disarm the System Either press the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter or insert a valid ignition key into the ignition switch and turn the key to the ON position. NOTE: • The driver’s door key cylinder and the trunk button on the RKE transmitter cannot arm or disarm the system. • The system remains armed during trunk entry. Press- ing the TRUNK button will not disarm the system. If someone enters the vehicle through the trunk, and opens any door, the alarm will sound. • When the system is armed, the interior power door


lock switches will not unlock the doors.


The Vehicle Security Alarm system is designed to protect your vehicle; however, you can create conditions where the system will give you a false alarm. If one of the previously-described arming sequences has occurred, the


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19


system will arm regardless of whether you are in the vehicle or not. If you remain in the vehicle and open a door, the alarm will sound. If this occurs, disarm the system. If the alarm system is armed and the battery becomes disconnected the system will remain armed when the battery is reconnected. The exterior lights will flash, the horn will sound, and the ignition will not start the vehicle. If this occurs, disarm the system. Tamper Alert If something has triggered the system in your absence, the horn will sound three times when you disarm the system. Check the vehicle for tampering.


20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM The courtesy lights will turn on when you use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or open any door. The lights will fade to off after about 30 seconds or they will immediately fade to off once the ignition switch is turned ON from the LOCK position. NOTE: • None of the courtesy lights will operate if the dimmer control is in the “defeat” position (extreme downward position), unless the overhead map/reading lights are turned on manually.


REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) The RKE system allows you to lock or unlock the doors, open the trunk, or activate the Panic Alarm from dis- tances up to about 35 ft (11 m) using a handheld radio RKE transmitter with integrated key. The RKE transmit- ter need not be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system. Inserting the RKE transmitter with integrated NOTE: key into the ignition switch disables all buttons on that RKE transmitter; however, the buttons on the remaining RKE transmitters will continue to work. Driving at speeds 5 mph (8 km/h) and above disables all RKE transmitter buttons for all RKE transmitters.


2


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21


Remote Key Unlock, Driver Door/All Doors 1st Press This feature lets you program the system to unlock either the driver’s door or all doors on the first press of the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter. Refer to “Re- mote Key Unlock,” under “Personal Settings (Customer- Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle In- formation Center (EVIC)” in Section 4. Flash Lights with Remote Key Lock This feature will cause the turn signal lights to flash when the doors are locked or unlocked with the RKE transmit- ter. This feature can be turned on or turned off. Refer to “Flash Lights with Remote Key Lock,” under ⬙Personal (Customer-Programmable Features),” under Settings “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.


RKE Transmitter with Integrated Key


To Unlock the Doors Press and release the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter once to unlock the driver’s door, or twice within five seconds to unlock all doors. The turn signal lights will flash to acknowledge the unlock signal. The illuminated entry system will also turn on.


22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


Turn Headlights On with Remote Key Unlock This feature activates the headlights for up to 90 seconds when the doors are unlocked with the RKE transmitter. The time for this feature is programmable. Refer to “Turn Headlights On with Remote Key Unlock,” under “Per- sonal Settings (Customer-Programmable Features),” un- der “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4. To Lock the Doors Press and release the LOCK button on the RKE transmit- ter to lock all doors. The turn signal lights will flash and the horn will chirp to acknowledge the signal. Sound Horn with Remote Key Lock This feature will cause the horn to chirp when the doors are locked with the RKE transmitter. This feature can be turned on or turned off. Refer to “Sound Horn with


Remote Key Lock,” under “Personal Settings (Customer- Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle In- formation Center (EVIC)” in Section 4. To Unlatch the Trunk Press the TRUNK button on the RKE transmitter two times within five seconds to unlatch the trunk. Using the Panic Alarm To turn the Panic Alarm feature on or off, press and hold the PANIC button on the RKE transmitter for at least one second and release. When the Panic Alarm is on, the headlights and park lights will flash, the horn will pulse on and off, and the interior lights will turn on. The Panic Alarm will stay on for three minutes unless you turn it off by either pressing the PANIC button a second time or drive the vehicle at a speed of 15 mph (24 km/h) or greater.


NOTE: • The interior lights will turn off if you turn the ignition switch to the ACC or ON position while the Panic Alarm is activated. However, the exterior lights and horn will remain on. • You may need to be less than 35 ft (11 m) from the vehicle when using the transmitter to turn off the Panic Alarm due to the radio frequency noises emitted by the system.


Programming Additional Transmitters Refer to Sentry Key威, “Customer Key Programming.” If you do not have a programmed RKE transmitter, contact your authorized dealer for details.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23


RKE Transmitter Battery Service The recommended replacement battery is one CR2032
battery. NOTE: • Perchlorate Material — special handling may apply. • Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back


See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate


housing or the printed circuit board.


24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


1. Battery access is through a door located on the rear of the fob. Insert a small, flat blade screwdriver into the slot and gently pry open the access door.


Battery Replacement


1— Battery Access Door


2. Remove and replace the batteries. Avoid touching the new batteries with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol. 3. Reposition the access door panel over the battery opening and snap into place. General Information This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and RSS 210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. • This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.


NOTE: Changes or modifications not expressly ap- proved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.


If your transmitter fails to operate from a normal dis- tance, check for these two conditions: 1. A weak battery in the transmitter. The expected life of the battery is a minimum of three years. 2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station tower, airport transmitter, and some mobile or CB radios.


REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED This system uses the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) trans- mitter to start the engine conveniently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a targeted range of 328 ft (100 m). NOTE: The vehicle must be equipped with an auto- matic transmission to be equipped with Remote Start.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25


How to Use Remote Start All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will remote start: • Shift lever in PARK • Doors closed • Hood closed • Trunk closed • Hazard switch off • Brake switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed) • Ignition key removed from ignition switch • Battery at an acceptable charge level, and • RKE PANIC button not pressed.


26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


To Enter Remote Start Mode


Remote Start mode.


Press and release the REMOTE START button on the RKE transmitter twice, within five sec- onds. The parking lights will flash and the horn will honk twice (if programmed). Then, the engine will start and the vehicle will remain in the Remote Start mode for a 15-minute cycle. NOTE: • The park lamps will turn on and remain on during • For security, power window and power sunroof op- eration (if so equipped) are disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode. • The engine can be started two consecutive times (two 15-minute cycles) with the RKE transmitter. However, the ignition switch must be cycled to the ON position before you can repeat the start sequence for a third cycle.


To Exit Remote Start Mode without Driving the Vehicle Allow the engine to run for the entire 15-minute cycle. To Exit Remote Start Mode and Drive the Vehicle Before the end of the 15-minute cycle, press and release the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter to unlock the doors and disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm (if equipped). Then, prior to the end of the 15-minute cycle, insert the key into the ignition switch and turn the switch to the ON position. NOTE: • The ignition switch must be in the ON position in • For vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), the message “Insert Key/ Turn To Run” will flash in the EVIC until you insert the key. Once inserted, the message “Turn To Run” will flash in the EVIC until you turn the key to run.


order to drive the vehicle.


To Turn Off the Engine While in Remote Start Mode Press and release the REMOTE START button one time. NOTE: To avoid inadvertent shut downs, the system will disable the one time press of the REMOTE START button for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request.


DOOR LOCKS


Manual Door Locks To lock each door, push the door lock plunger on each door trim panel downward. To unlock each door, pull the door lock plunger on each door trim panel upward.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27


Door Lock Plunger


If the door lock plunger is down when you shut the door, the door will lock. Therefore, make sure the key is not inside the vehicle before closing the door.


28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


WARNING!


• For personal security and safety in the event of an accident, lock the vehicle doors before you drive as well as when you park and leave the vehicle. • When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the ignition and lock your vehicle. Unsuper- vised use of vehicle equipment may cause severe personal injuries and death. • Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the key in the ignition. A child could operate power win- dows, other controls, or move the vehicle.


Power Door Locks A power door lock switch is on each front door trim panel. Use this switch to lock or unlock the doors.


Power Door Lock Switch


If you press the power door lock switch while the key is in the ignition, and any front door is open, the power locks will not operate. This prevents you from acciden- tally locking the key in the vehicle. Removing the key or closing the door will allow the locks to operate. If a door is open, the key is in the ignition, and the ignition is in the LOCK or ACC position, a chime will sound as a reminder to remove the key. Automatic Door Locks The doors will lock automatically on vehicles with power door locks if all of the following conditions are met: 1. The Automatic Door Locks feature is enabled. 2. The transmission is in gear. 3. All doors are closed. 4. The throttle is pressed. 5. The vehicle speed is above 15 mph (24 km/h), and


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29


6. The doors were not previously locked using the power door lock switch or Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. Automatic Door Locks Programming The Automatic Door Locks feature can be enabled or disabled as follows: • For vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), refer to “Lock Doors Au- tomatically at 15 mph (24 km/h)” under “Personal Settings (Customer-Programmable Features)” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) – If Equipped” in Section 4. • For vehicles not equipped with the EVIC, perform the


following procedure:


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


30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


2. Cycle the ignition switch between LOCK and ON and then back to LOCK four times ending up in the LOCK position. 3. Depress the power door LOCK switch to lock the doors. 4. A single chime will indicate the completion of the programming. 5. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting. NOTE: Use the Automatic Door Locks feature in accor- dance with local laws. Automatic Unlock Doors on Exit The doors will unlock automatically on vehicles with power door locks if: 1. The Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit feature is en- abled.


2. The transmission was in gear and the vehicle speed returned to 0 mph (0 km/h). 3. The transmission is in NEUTRAL or PARK. 4. The driver door is opened. 5. The doors were not previously unlocked, and 6. The vehicle speed is 0 mph (0 km/h). Automatic Unlock Doors on Exit Programming The Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit feature can be enabled or disabled as follows: • For vehicles equipped with the EVIC, refer to “Unlock Doors Automatically on Exit” under “Personal Set- tings (Customer-Programmable Features)” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) – If Equipped” in Section 4.


• For vehicles not equipped with the EVIC, perform the


following procedure:


1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition. 2. Cycle the ignition switch between LOCK and ON and then back to LOCK four times ending up in the LOCK position. 3. Depress the power door UNLOCK switch to unlock the doors. 4. A single chime will indicate the completion of the programming. 5. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting. NOTE: Use the Automatic Unlock Doors On Exit feature in accordance with local laws.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31


Passive Entry System — If Equipped The Passive Entry system allows you to unlock the vehicle’s door(s) without using the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter unlock button, or the unlock button located on the vehicle’s interior door panel. To use this feature you must have a valid RKE transmitter within 3 ft (1.5 m) of the door handle you desire to use. To Unlock the Vehicle’s Doors To unlock the vehicle’s door(s), grasp the door handle and the door(s) will unlock. NOTE: • If the vehicle has not been used for 72 hours or it has been raining for 24 hours, you may have to pull a door handle to reactivate this feature. • If the vehicle’s door locks are programmed to “Unlock Driver’s Door 1st Press”, only the driver’s door will unlock when the driver’s door handle is grasped. If the vehicle’s door locks are programmed to “Unlock All


32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


Doors 1st Press”, all doors will unlock if any door handle is grasped. Refer to “Remote Key Unlock” under “Personal Settings (Customer-Programmable Features)” in the “Electronic Vehicle Information Cen- ter (EVIC)” in Section 4 of this manual. • If you accidentally lock your RKE transmitter in the vehicle using the door panel switch, ALL doors will unlock and the horn will chirp three times after all doors are closed. If you do this three times, the system will not chirp and the doors will remain locked on the third attempt. To re-enable the system the vehicle must be unlocked with another valid RKE transmitter.


To Enter the Trunk Press the button on the left side of CHMSL, which is located on the deck lid. If you inadvertently leave your RKE transmitter NOTE: in the trunk and try to close the deck lid, the deck lid will


automatically unlatch unless another RKE transmitter is outside the vehicle and within 3 ft (1.5 m) of the deck lid. To Lock the Vehicle’s Doors The vehicle doors can be locked by using the RKE transmitter lock button or the lock button located on the vehicle’s interior door panel. To Place an RKE Transmitter in the Vehicle for Safekeeping – Vehicles Equipped with Keyless Go only If you want to lock an RKE transmitter in your vehicle by using the door panel switch perform the following pro- cedure: 1. With the desired RKE transmitter in the vehicle, press the door lock switch located on the door panel. All doors will lock. When all doors are closed you will hear three chirps of the horn and the doors will unlock. This is the


same lock/unlock and chirping sound that you would experience if you accidentally locked your RKE transmit- ter in the vehicle. 2. Open the door and repeat Step 1 two more times (three times total). The doors will remain locked; no audible warnings will occur. NOTE: Any RKE transmitter that is locked in the vehicle either by a passive lock, another RKE lock, or the door panel lock switch will be disabled from Keyless Go. The disabled RKE transmitter(s) will be re-enabled after a passive unlock or RKE unlock. Child Protection Door Lock To provide a safer environment for small children riding in the rear seats, the rear doors are equipped with a Child Protection Door Lock system. To Engage the Child Protection Door Lock System 1. Open the rear door.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33


2. Insert the tip of the valet key (or alike) into the child lock control and pull it upward. NOTE: For valet key information, refer to “A Word About Your Keys” in this section.


3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for the opposite rear door.


Child Lock Control


34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


NOTE: When the Child Protection Door Lock system is engaged, the door can be opened only by using the outside door handle even though the inside door lock is in the unlocked position.


WARNING!


Avoid trapping anyone in a vehicle in a collision. Remember that the rear doors can only be opened from the outside when the child protection locks are engaged. Failure to follow this warning may result in serious injury or death.


NOTE: • After engaging the Child Protection Door Lock sys- tem, always test the door from the inside to make certain it is in the desired position.


• For emergency exit with the system engaged, move the door lock plunger to the UNLOCK position, roll down the window and open the door with the outside door handle.


To Disengage the Child Protection Door Lock System 1. Open the rear door. 2. Insert the tip of the valet key (or alike) into the child lock control and pull it downward.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35


WINDOWS


Power Windows The window controls on the driver’s door control all the door windows.


Child Lock Control


3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for the opposite rear door. NOTE: After disengaging the Child Protection Door Lock system, always test the door from the inside to make certain it is in the desired position.


Power Window Switches


36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


There are single window controls on each passenger door trim panel, which operate the passenger door windows. The window controls will operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON or ACC position.


WARNING!


Never leave children in a vehicle with the key in the ignition switch. Occupants, particularly unattended children, can become entrapped by the windows while operating the power window switches. Such entrapment may result in serious injury or death.


AUTO-Down Feature The driver door power window switch and some model passenger door power window switches have an AUTO- down feature. Press the window switch to the second detent, release, and the window will go down automati- cally.


To open the window part way, press the window switch to the first detent and release it when you want the window to stop. To stop the window from going all the way down during the AUTO-down operation, pull up on the switch briefly. The power window switches will remain active for up to 60 minutes after the ignition switch is turned OFF. Opening either front door will cancel this feature. The time for this feature is programmable. Refer to “Delay Power Off to Accessories Until Exit,” under “Personal Settings (Customer-Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.


AUTO-Up Feature with Anti–Pinch Protection — If Equipped Lift the window switch to the second detent, release, and the window will go up automatically. To stop the window from going all the way up during the AUTO-up operation, push down on the switch briefly. To close the window part way, lift the window switch to the first detent and release it when you want the window to stop. The power window switches will remain active for up to 60 minutes after the ignition switch is turned off. Open- ing either front door will cancel this feature. The time for this feature is programmable. Refer to “Delay Power Off to Accessories Until Exit,” under “Personal Settings (Customer-Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37


NOTE: • If the window runs into any obstacle during auto- closure, it will reverse direction and then stop. Remove the obstacle and use the window switch again to close the window. • Any impact due to rough road conditions may trigger the auto-reverse function unexpectedly during auto- closure. If this happens, pull the switch lightly to the first detent and hold to close the window manually.


WARNING!


There is no anti-pinch protection when the window is almost closed. Be sure to clear all objects from the window before closing.


38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


Window Lockout Switch The window lockout switch on the driver’s door trim panel allows you to disable the window controls on the passenger doors. To disable the window controls, press and release the window lockout button (setting it in the DOWN position). To enable the window controls, press and release the window lockout button again (setting it in the UP position).


Window Lockout Switch


Reset Anytime the vehicle battery is disconnected or goes dead, the AUTO-up function will be disabled. To reactivate the AUTO-up feature, perform the following procedure after vehicle power is restored:


1. Pull the window switch up to close window com- pletely and continue to hold the switch up for an additional two seconds after the window is closed. 2. Push the window switch down firmly to the second detent to open the window completely and continue to hold the switch down for an additional two seconds after the window is fully open. 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 occur- rence and can be minimized. If the buffeting occurs with the rear windows open, then open the front and rear windows together to minimize the buffeting. If the buffeting occurs with the sunroof open, then adjust the sunroof opening to minimize the buffeting.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39


TRUNK LOCK AND RELEASE The trunk lid can be released from inside the vehicle by pressing the TRUNK RELEASE button located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. NOTE: The transmission must be in PARK before the switch will operate.


Trunk Release Button


40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


The trunk lid can be released from outside the vehicle by pressing the TRUNK button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter twice within five seconds. With the ignition switch in the ON position, the Trunk Open symbol will display in the instrument cluster indicating that the trunk is open. The odometer display will reappear once the trunk is closed. With the ignition switch in the LOCK position or the key removed from the ignition switch, the Trunk Open sym- bol will display until the trunk is closed.


TRUNK SAFETY WARNING


WARNING!


Do not allow children to have access to the trunk, either by climbing into the trunk from outside, or through the inside of the vehicle. Always close the trunk lid when your vehicle is unattended. Once in the trunk, young children may not be able to escape, even if they entered through the rear seat. If trapped in the trunk, children can die from suffocation or heat stroke.


Trunk Emergency Release The trunk of your vehicle is equipped with an emergency release handle. It is located on the inside of the trunk lid, near the latch, and is coated so that it glows in a darkened trunk. Pull on the handle to open the trunk.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41


and passengers seated next to a window, and the optional supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags. 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. 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.


Trunk Emergency Release


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, the front airbags for both the driver and front passenger, the optional supplemental side curtain airbags for the driver


42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


Buckle up even though you are an excellent driver, even on short trips. Someone on the road may be a poor driver and cause a collision that includes you. This can happen far away from home or on your own street. 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 seating positions in your vehicle are equipped with lap/shoulder belts. The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during very sudden stops or impacts. This feature allows the shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under normal conditions. However, in a collision, the belt will lock and reduce your risk of striking the inside of the vehicle or being thrown out.


WARNING!


• It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seri- ously 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 • 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 best.


using a seat belt properly.


(Continued)


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43


WARNING! (Continued)


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


Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions 1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and adjust the front seat.


44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


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.


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


Pulling Out the Lap/Shoulder Belt Latch Plate


Inserting Latch Plate into Buckle


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.


(Continued)


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45


WARNING! (Continued)


• A belt that is worn under your arm is very danger- ous. Your body could strike the inside surfaces of the vehicle in a collision, increasing head and neck injury. A belt worn under the arm can cause internal injuries. Ribs aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. Wear the belt over your shoulder so that your stron- gest bones will take the force in a collision. • A shoulder belt placed behind you will not protect you from injury during a collision. You are more likely to hit your head in a collision if you do not wear your shoulder belt. The lap and shoulder belt are meant to be used together.


46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt 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.


Removing Slack from Belt


WARNING!


• A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as pos- sible and keep it snug. • A twisted belt can’t do its job as well. In a collision, it could even cut into you. Be sure the belt is straight. If you can’t 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. 6. To release the belt, push the red button on the buckle. The belt will automatically retract to its stowed position. If necessary, slide the latch plate down the webbing to allow the belt to retract fully.


WARNING!


A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision and leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.).


Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage In the driver and front passenger seats, the shoulder belt can be adjusted upward or downward to position the belt away from your neck. Push and fully depress the button above the webbing to release the anchorage, then move it up or down to the position that fits you best.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 47


NOTE: When the shoulder belt is adjusted to the full downward position, it will not be at the bottom of the slot in the Trim Panel. This is normal and the intended lowest position.


Adjusting Upper Shoulder Belt


As a guide, if you are shorter than average you will prefer a lower position, and if you are taller than average


48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


you will prefer a higher position. When you release the anchorage try to move it up and down to make sure that it is locked in position. In the rear seat, move toward the center of the seat to position the belt away from your neck. Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure Use the following procedure to untwist a twisted lap/ shoulder belt. 1. Position the latch plate as close as possible to the anchor point. 2. At about 6 to 12 in (15 to 30 cm) above the latch plate, grasp and twist the belt webbing 180 degrees to create a fold that begins immediately above the latch plate. 3. Slide the latch plate upward over the folded webbing. The folded webbing must enter the slot at the top of the latch plate.


4. Continue to slide the latch plate up until it clears the folded webbing. Seat Belt Pretensioners The seat belts for both front seating positions are equipped with pretensioning devices that are designed to remove any slack from the seat belts in the event of a collision. These devices improve the performance of the seat belt system by assuring that the belt is tight around the occupant 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 still must be worn snugly and positioned properly.


The pretensioners are triggered by the Occupant Re- straint Controller (ORC). (Refer to information on Air- bags in this section). Like the front airbags, the preten- sioners are single use items. After a collision that is severe enough to deploy the airbags and pretensioners, both must be replaced. Enhanced Seat Belt Reminder System (BeltAlert姞) If the driver’s seat belt has not been buckled within 60 seconds of starting the vehicle and if the vehicle speed is greater than 5 mph (8 km/h), the Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert威) will alert the driver to buckle their seat belt. The driver should also instruct all other occu- pants to buckle their seat belts. Once the warning is triggered, the BeltAlert威 will continue to chime and flash the Seat Belt Reminder Light for 96 seconds or until the driver’s seat belt is buckled. The BeltAlert威 will be reactivated if the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled for more than 10 seconds and the vehicle speed is greater than 5 mph (8 km/h).


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49


BeltAlert威 Programming The BeltAlert威 can be enabled or disabled by your authorized dealer or by performing the following steps: NOTE: Chrysler LLC does not recommend deactivating the BeltAlert威. 1. With all doors closed, and the ignition switch in any position except ON or START, buckle the driver’s seat belt. 2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Wait for the Seat Belt Reminder Light to turn off and then proceed to the next step. NOTE: You must perform the following steps within 60 seconds of turning the ignition switch to the ON position.


50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


3. Within 60 seconds of turning the ignition switch to the ON position, unbuckle and then re-buckle the driver’s seat belt at least three times within 10 seconds, ending with the seat belt buckled. NOTE: Watch for the Seat Belt Reminder Light to turn on while unbuckling the seat belt and turn off while re-buckling the seat belt. It may be necessary to retract the seat belt. 4. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position. A single chime will sound to signify that you have success- fully completed the programming. BeltAlert威 can be reactivated by repeating this procedure. NOTE: Although BeltAlert威 has been deactivated, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will continue to illuminate as long as the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled.


Automatic Locking Mode — If Equipped In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre- locked. However, the belt will still retract to remove slack in the shoulder belt. Use the Automatic Locking mode any time a child safety seat is installed in a seating position that has a seat belt with this feature. Seat belts that have the Automatic Locking mode feature have a distinctive label on the webbing. Children 12 years old and younger should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible. How to Engage 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 here a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the Automatic Locking mode.


How to Disengage the Automatic Locking Mode Unbuckle the combination lap and shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the Automatic Locking mode and activate the Vehicle Sensitive (Emer- gency) Locking mode. 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 so equipped) is in its lowest position, your authorized


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51


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 ex- tender and store it.


WARNING!


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


Driver and Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - Airbag This vehicle has front airbags for both the driver and front passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint systems. The driver’s airbag is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger’s front airbag is


52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


mounted in the instrument panel, above the glove com- partment. The words SRS AIRBAG are embossed on the airbag covers.


Front Airbag Components


1 — Airbags


2 — Knee Bolsters


NOTE: The front airbags are certified to the Federal regulations that allow less forceful deployment. The front airbags have a multistage inflator design. This may allow the airbag to have different rates of inflation that are based on collision severity.


WARNING!


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


any way.


(Continued)


WARNING! (Continued)


• Do not mount any accessories to the knee bolster such as alarm lights, stereos, citizens band radios etc.


This vehicle may also be equipped with supplemental side curtain airbags to protect the driver and passengers sitting next to a window and/or supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags. If the vehicle is equipped with supplemental side curtain airbags, they are located above the side windows. Their covers are also labeled SRS AIRBAG.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53


Window Airbag


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


54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


If the vehicle is equipped with supplemental front seat- mounted side airbags, they are marked with an SRS label sewn into the outboard side of the seat.


WARNING!


• If your vehicle is equipped with supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags, do not use acces- sory seat covers or place objects between you and the seat airbags; the performance could be ad- versely affected and/or objects could be pushed into you, causing serious injury. • If your vehicle is equipped with supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags, do not attach cupholders or any other objects on or around the door. The inflating seat airbag could drive the object into occupants, causing serious injury.


(Continued)


WARNING! (Continued)


• If your vehicle is equipped with supplemental side curtain airbags, do not stack luggage or other cargo up high enough to block the location of the side curtain airbag. The area where the side cur- tain airbag is located should remain free from any obstructions. • If your vehicle is equipped with supplemental side curtain airbags, 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.


NOTE: Do not use a clothing bar mounted to the coat hooks in this vehicle. A clothing bar will impede the proper performance of the curtain airbags.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55


Along with the seat belts, front airbags work with the instrument panel knee bolsters to provide improved protection for the driver and front passenger. Side curtain and seat airbags also work with seat belts to improve occupant protection. While the seat belts are designed to protect you in many types of collisions, the front airbags will deploy in moderate to severe frontal collisions. For vehicles so equipped, the supplemental side curtain airbag and front seat-mounted side airbag on the crash side of the vehicle will also trigger in moderate to severe side collisions. However, even in collisions where the airbags deploy, you need the seat belts to keep you in the correct 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 old and younger should ride buck- led up in the rear seat.


56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


WARNING!


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


2. Children who are not big enough to wear the vehicle seat belt properly should be secured in the rear seat in child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats. (Refer to information on Child Restraints in this section.) 3. Older children who do not use child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats should ride properly buck- led up in the rear seat. Never allow children to slide the shoulder belt behind them or under their arm. 4. 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. (Refer to information on Child Restraints in this section.) 5. You should read the instructions provided with your child restraint to make sure that you are using it properly. 6. All occupants should use their seat belts properly. 7. The driver and front passenger seats should be moved back as far as practical to allow the airbags time to inflate. 8. If your vehicle has supplemental side curtain airbags and/or supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags, do not lean against the door, as the airbags will inflate forcefully into the space between you and the door. 9. If the airbag system in this vehicle needs to be modified to accommodate a disabled person, contact the Customer Center. Phone numbers are provided in the ⬙If You Need Customer Assistance⬙ section.


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 seri- ous injury. Airbags need room to inflate. Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to reach the steering wheel or instrument panel. • If the vehicle has supplemental side curtain air- bags and/or supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags, they also need room to inflate. Do not lean against the door or window. Sit upright in the center of the seat.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57


Airbag System Components The airbag system consists of the following: • Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) • Side Remote Acceleration Sensors (if equipped) • Airbag Warning Light • Driver Airbag • Front Passenger Airbag • Supplemental Side Curtain Airbags above Side Win- • Supplemental Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (if • Steering Wheel and Column • Instrument Panel • Interconnecting Wiring


dows (if equipped)


equipped)


58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


• Seat Belt Reminder Light • Knee Impact Bolsters • Front Acceleration Sensors • Driver and Front Passenger Seat Belt Pretensioners How the Airbag System Works • The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) determines if a frontal collision is severe enough to require the airbags to inflate. The front airbag inflators are de- signed to provide different rates of airbag inflation from direction provided by the ORC. The ORC will not detect rollover. • For vehicles so equipped, the ORC also determines if a side impact is severe enough to deploy the supple- mental side curtain airbag and/or supplemental front seat-mounted side airbag as required for each type of impact.


• The ORC also monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all of the items listed above except the knee bolster, the instru- ment panel, and the steering wheel and column. If the key is in the LOCK position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition, the airbags are not on and they will not inflate. • The ORC also turns on the Airbag Warning Light in the instrument panel for six to eight seconds as a self-check when the ignition is first turned on. After the self-check, the Airbag Warning Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the Airbag Warning Light either momentarily or continu- ously. A single chime will sound if the light comes on again after initial start-up.


WARNING!


Ignoring the Airbag Warning Light in your instru- ment 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 Driver and Front Passenger Airbag/Inflator Units are located in the center of the steering wheel and the passenger side of the instrument panel. When the ORC detects a collision requiring the airbags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate the front airbags. Different airbag inflation rates may be possible based on colli- sion severity. The steering wheel hub trim cover, and the upper passenger side of the instrument panel separate and fold out of the way as the bags inflate to


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59


their full size. The bags fully inflate in about 50 to 70
ms. This is about half of the time that 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 Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees of the driver and the front passenger and position every- one for the best interaction with the front airbag. • The Supplemental Side Impact SRS Side Curtain Airbags are designed to activate only in certain side collisions. When the ORC (with side impact option) detects a collision requiring the side curtain airbag to inflate, it signals the inflators on the crash side of the vehicle. A quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to


60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


inflate the side curtain airbag. The inflating side cur- tain airbag pushes the outside edge of the headliner out of the way and covers the window. The airbag inflates in about 30 ms (about one-quarter of the time that 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 side curtain airbag inflates. This especially applies to chil- dren. The side curtain airbag is only about 3-1/2 in (9 cm) thick when it is inflated. • The Supplemental Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags are designed to activate only in certain side collisions. When the ORC (with side impact option) detects a collision requiring the front seat-mounted side airbag to inflate, it signals the inflators on the crash side of the vehicle. A quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate the front seat-mounted side airbag. The inflat- ing front seat-mounted side airbag pushes through the seam in the seat’s trim cover and opens into the space


between the occupant and the door. The airbag inflates at a very high speed and with enough force to injure you if you are not belted and seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area where the front seat-mounted side airbag inflates. This especially ap- plies to children. The following requirements must be strictly adhered to: • Do not make any modifications to the front seat components, assembly, or to the seat cover in any way. • Do not use prior or future model year seat covers not designated for the specific model being re- paired. Always use the correct seat cover specified for the vehicle. • Do not replace the seat cover with an aftermarket


seat cover.


approved by Chrysler LLC/Mopar威.


• Do not add a secondary seat cover other than those • At no time should any supplemental restraint sys- tem (SRS) component or SRS-related component or fastener be modified or replaced with any part except those which are approved by Chrysler LLC/ Mopar威.


WARNING!


Unapproved modifications or service procedures to the front seat assembly, its related components, or seat cover may inadvertently change the airbag de- ployment in case of a frontal crash. This could result in death or serious injury to the driver or front seat passenger if the vehicle is involved in an accident. A modified vehicle may not comply with required Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61


If a Deployment Occurs The airbag system is designed to deploy when the ORC detects a moderate to severe collision to help restrain the driver and front passenger and then to immediately deflate. NOTE: A frontal collision that is not severe enough to need airbag protection will not activate the system. This does not mean something is wrong with the airbag system. If you do have a collision that deploys the airbags, any or all of the following may occur: • The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abra- sions 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.


62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


However, if you haven’t healed significantly within a few days or if you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately. • As the airbags deflate, you may see some smoke-like particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the process that generates the nontoxic gas used for airbag inflation. These airborne particles may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin or eye irritation, rinse the area with cool water. For nose or throat irritation, move to fresh air. If the irritation continues, see your doctor. If these particles settle on your clothing, follow the garment manufacturer’s instruc- tions for cleaning. • It is not advisable to drive your vehicle after the airbags have been deployed. If you are involved in another collision, the airbags will not be in place to protect you.


WARNING!


Deployed airbags can’t protect you in another colli- sion. Have the airbags replaced by an authorized dealer as soon as possible.


Enhanced Accident Response System In the event of an impact that causes airbag deployment, with the vehicle stopped, and the vehicle communication network intact, and the power intact, the Enhanced Accident Response System performs the following func- tions: • Cuts off fuel to the engine. • Flashes hazard lights. • Turns on the interior lights, which remain on as long as the battery has power or until the ignition key is removed.


• Unlocks the doors automatically.


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


WARNING! (Continued)


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


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63


WARNING!


• Modifications to any part of the airbag system could cause it to fail when you need it. You could be injured because the airbags are 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 passenger side of the instrument panel. Do not modify the front bumper, vehicle body struc- ture, or frame. • You need proper knee impact protection in a collision. Do not mount or locate any aftermarket equipment on or behind the knee impact bolster.


(Continued)


NOTE: Perchlorate Material — special handling may apply. See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate. Airbag Warning Light


You will want to have the airbags ready to inflate for your protection in an impact. While the airbag system is designed to be mainte- nance free, if any of the following occurs, have an authorized dealer service the system promptly: • The Airbag Warning Light does not come on or flickers during the six to eight seconds when the ignition switch is first turned ON.


64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


• The light remains on or flickers after the six to eight • The light flickers or comes on and remains on while


second interval.


driving.


Event Data Recorder (EDR) In the event of an accident, your vehicle is designed to record up to five seconds of specific vehicle data param- eters (see the following list) in an event data recorder prior to the moment of airbag deployment, or near deployment, and up to a quarter second of high-speed deceleration data during and/or after airbag deploy- ment. EDR data are ONLY recorded if an airbag deploys, or nearly deploys, and are otherwise unavailable. NOTE: 1. A near-deployment event occurs when the airbag sensor detects severe vehicle deceleration usually indica- tive of a crash, but not severe enough to warrant airbag deployment.


2. Under certain circumstances, EDR data may not be recorded (e.g., loss of battery power). In conjunction with other data gathered during a com- plete accident investigation, the electronic data may be used by Chrysler LLC and others to learn more about the possible causes of crashes and associated injuries in order to assess and improve vehicle performance. In addition to crash investigations initiated by Chrysler LLC, such investigations may be requested by customers, insurance carriers, government officials, and professional crash researchers, such as those associated with universities, and with hospital and insurance organizations. In the event that an investigation is undertaken by Chrysler LLC (regardless of initiative), the company or its designated representative will first obtain permission of the appropriate custodial entity for the vehicle (usually the vehicle owner or lessee) before accessing the elec- tronic data stored, unless ordered to download data by a


court with legal jurisdiction (i.e., pursuant to a warrant). A copy of the data will be provided to the custodial entity upon request. General data that does not identify par- ticular vehicles or crashes may be released for incorpo- ration in aggregate crash databases, such as those main- tained by the US government and various states. Data of a potentially sensitive nature, such as would identify a particular driver, vehicle, or crash, will be treated confi- dentially. Confidential data will not be disclosed by Chrysler LLC to any third party except when: 1. Used for research purposes, such as to match data with a particular crash record in an aggregate database, provided confidentiality of personal data is thereafter preserved. 2. Used in defense of litigation involving a Chrysler LLC product. 3. Requested by police under a legal warrant.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65


4. Otherwise required by law. Data parameters that may be recorded: • Diagnostic trouble code(s) and warning light status for electronically-controlled safety systems, including the airbag system


cycles and vehicle mileage)


• Airbag disable light status (if equipped) • ⬙Time⬙ of airbag deployment (in terms of ignition • Airbag deployment level (if applicable) • Impact acceleration and angle • Seat belt status • Brake status (service and parking brakes) • Accelerator status (including vehicle speed) • Engine control status (including engine speed)


66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


• Transmission gear selection • Cruise control status • Traction/stability control status • Tire Pressure Monitoring System status (if equipped) Child Restraints Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up all the time, including babies and children. Every state in the United States and all Canadian provinces require that small children ride in proper restraint systems. This is the law, and you can be prosecuted for ignoring it. Children 12 years and younger 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 could become so great that you could not hold the child, no matter how strong you are. The child and others could be badly injured. Any child riding in your vehicle should be in a proper restraint for the child’s size.


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


Infants and Child Restraints • Safety


experts


recommend that


children ride rearward-facing in the vehicle until they are at least one year old and weigh at least 20 lbs (9 kg). Two types of child restraints can be used rearward-facing, infant carriers and convertible child seats. • 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. Both types of child restraints are held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system. Refer to “LATCH — Child Seat Anchorage System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren)” in this section.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67


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


Older Children and Child Restraints Children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) and who are older than one year can ride forward-facing in the vehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible child seats used in the forward-facing direction are for children who weigh 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg) and who are older than one year. These child seats are also held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system. Refer to “LATCH — Child Seat Anchorage System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren)” in this section. The belt-positioning booster seat is for children weighing more than 40 lbs (18 kg), but who are still too small to fit


68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


the vehicle’s seat belts properly. If the child cannot sit with knees bent over the vehicle’s seat cushion while the child’s back is against the seatback, they should use a belt-positioning booster seat. The child and belt- positioning booster seat are held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt. Children Too Large for Booster Seats Children who are large enough to wear the shoulder belt comfortably and whose legs are long enough to bend over the front of the seat when their back is against the seatback should use the lap/shoulder belt in a rear seat. • Make sure that the child is upright in the seat. • The lap portion should be low on the hips and as snug • Check belt fit periodically. A child’s squirming or


as possible.


slouching can move the belt out of position.


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


NOTE: www.seatcheck.org or call 1–866–SEATCHECK.


information,


additional


For


refer


to


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 ex- actly when installing an infant or child restraint. • A rearward-facing child restraint should only be used in a rear seat. A rearward-facing child re- straint in the front seat may be struck by a deploy- ing passenger airbag, which may cause severe or fatal injury to the infant.


Here are some tips on 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. We also recommend that you make sure that you can install the child restraint in the vehicle 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. • Buckle the child into the seat according to the child • When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the vehicle with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle.


restraint manufacturer’s directions.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 69


Do not leave it loose in the vehicle. In a sudden stop or collision, it could strike the occupants or seatbacks and cause serious personal injury.


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 avail- able. 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 have features for installation using the vehicle’s seat belts. Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for


70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


connection to the top tether anchorages have been avail- able for some time. For some older child restraints, many child restraint manufacturers offer add-on tether strap kits or retrofit kits. You are urged to take advantage of all the available attachments provided with your child re- straint in any vehicle. All three rear-seating positions have lower anchorages that are capable of accommodating LATCH-compatible child seats. You should NEVER install LATCH- compatible child seats so 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 vehi- cle’s seat belts.


LATCH Anchorages


Installing the LATCH-Compatible Child Restraint System We urge you to follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully when installing your child restraint. Not all child restraint systems will be installed as described here.


Again, carefully follow the installation instructions that are provided with the child restraint system.


The rear seat lower anchorages are round bars located at the rear of the seat cushion where it meets the seatback and are 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.


In addition, there are tether strap anchorages behind each rear seating position located in the panel between the rear seatback and the rear window. These tether strap anchorages are


under a plastic cover with this symbol on it. 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


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 71


means of adjusting the tension in the strap. Forward- facing 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 seatcover material. Then rotate the tether anchorage cover directly behind the seat where you are placing the child restraint and attach the tether strap to the anchor- age, being careful to route the tether strap to provide the most direct path between the anchor and the child restraint. Finally, tighten all three straps as you push the child restraint rearward and downward into the seat, removing slack in the straps according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions.


72 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


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


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 Belts The passenger seat belts are equipped with either cinch- ing latch plates or Automatic Locking Retractors (ALRs), which are designed to keep the lap portion tight around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to use a locking clip. 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 occasion- ally and pull it tight if necessary.


Seat belts with an automatic locking retractor have a distinctive label on the seat belt webbing. The seat belt must be in the Automatic Locking mode in order to enable a child restraint to be tightly installed. Refer to “Automatic Locking Mode” in this section. A locking clip should not be necessary once the automatic locking feature is enabled. Position the shoulder and lap belt on the child restraint. The automatic locking retractor is activated by first attaching the child seat, then pulling all of the webbing out of the retractor, then allowing the webbing to retract back into the retractor. Tighten web- bing. To release, simply unbuckle the seat belt by de- pressing the button, allowing the webbing to retract into the retractor.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 73


In the rear seat, you may have trouble tightening the lap/shoulder belt on the child restraint because the buckle or latch plate is too close to the belt path opening on the restraint. Disconnect the latch plate from the buckle and twist the short buckle end belt several times to shorten it. Insert the latch plate into the buckle with the release button facing out. If the belt still can’t be tightened, or if 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.


74 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE


To attach a child restraint tether strap: 1. Rotate the cover over the anchor directly behind the seat where you are placing the child restraint.


Tether Strap Mounting


2. Route the tether strap to provide the most direct path for the strap between the anchor and the child seat.


3. Attach the tether strap hook (A) of the child restraint to the anchor (B) and remove slack in the tether strap according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instruc- tions. NOTE: Ensure that the tether strap does not slip into the opening between the seatbacks as you remove slack in the strap.


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.


THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 75


Loading...
x