2011 Dodge Dakota Owners Manual

Download PDF Manual
Dakota 2 0 1 1 O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L VEHICLES SOLD IN CANADA With respect to any Vehicles Sold in Canada, the name Chrysler Group LLC shall be deemed to be deleted and the name Chrysler Canada Inc. used in substitution therefore. 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 Group 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 © 2010 Chrysler Group LLC SECTION TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 STARTING AND OPERATING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 357 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 409 IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 425 10 INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 435 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 4 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION Congratulations on selecting your new Chrysler Group LLC vehicle. Be assured that it represents precision workmanship, distinctive styling, and high quality - all essentials that are traditional to our vehicles. 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 Warranty Information, and various customer-oriented documents. Please take the time to read these publications carefully. Following the instruc- tions and recommendations in this manual will help assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle. NOTE: After reviewing the owner information, it should be stored in the vehicle for convenient referenc- ing and remain with the vehicle when sold. When it comes to service, remember that your authorized dealer knows your vehicle best, has factory-trained tech- nicians and genuine MOPAR威 parts, and cares about your satisfaction. HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL Consult the Table of Contents to determine which section contains the information you desire. Since the specification of your vehicle depends on the items of equipment ordered, certain descriptions and illustrations may differ from your vehicle’s equipment 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: INTRODUCTION 5 6 INTRODUCTION WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS This Owner’s Manual contains WARNINGS against op- erating procedures that could result in a collision 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 located on the left front corner of the instrument panel pad, visible from outside of the vehicle through the windshield. This number also appears on the Automobile Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on your vehicle. Save this label for a convenient record of your vehicle identification number and optional equipment. It is illegal to remove or alter the VIN. NOTE: VIN Location VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS WARNING! Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety and may lead to a accident resulting in serious injury or death. INTRODUCTION 7 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 A Word About Your Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 ▫ Ignition Key Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 ▫ Locking Doors With A Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 䡵 Steering Wheel Lock — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . 15 ▫ To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel . . . . . . 15 ▫ To Release The Steering Wheel Lock . . . . . . . . 15 ▫ Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 䡵 Sentry Key威 — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 ▫ Replacement Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 ▫ Customer Key Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 䡵 Vehicle Security Alarm — If Equipped . . . . . . . . 18 ▫ To Arm The System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 ▫ To Disarm The System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 䡵 Illuminated Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 ▫ Vehicles Equipped With Power Door Locks . . . 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 䡵 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) ▫ To Unlock The Doors 10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ▫ To Lock The Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 ▫ Using The Panic Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 ▫ General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 ▫ Programming Additional Transmitters . . . . . . 24 ▫ Battery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 䡵 Remote Starting System — If Equipped . . . . . . . 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 䡵 Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 ▫ Manual Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 ▫ Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 ▫ Child-Protection Door Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 ▫ Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 ▫ How To Use Remote Start 䡵 Windows ▫ Auto-Down — Driver’s Side Only . . . . . . . . . 33 ▫ Window Lockout Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 ▫ Wind Buffeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 䡵 Occupant Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 ▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 ▫ Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage . . . 43 ▫ Center Lap Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 ▫ Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure . . . . 45 ▫ Seat Belts In Passenger Seating Positions . . . . . 45 ▫ Automatic Locking Retractor Mode (ALR) — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 ▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 ▫ Energy Management Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 ▫ Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System (BeltAlert威) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 ▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women . . . . . . . . . . 49 ▫ Seat Belt Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 ▫ Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) – Airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 . . . . . . . . . . 52 . . . 54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 ▫ Advanced Front Airbag Features ▫ Airbag Deployment Sensors And Controls ▫ Event Data Recorder (EDR) THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11 ▫ Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 䡵 Engine Break-In Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . 75 䡵 Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 ▫ Transporting Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 ▫ Exhaust Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 ▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 ▫ Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS The authorized dealer that sold you your vehicle has the key code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can be used to order duplicate keys from your authorized dealer. Ask your authorized dealer for these numbers and keep them in a safe place. Ignition Key Removal Automatic Transmission 1. Place the shift lever in PARK. 2. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position. 3. Remove the key from the ignition lock cylinder. Ignition Key THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13 key to the right slightly, then remove the key as de- scribed. If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the key in the ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped, but the key cannot be removed until you obtain service. 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 seriously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the keys in the ignition. A child could operate power win- dows, other controls, or move the vehicle. • Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat build-up may cause serious injury or death. Ignition Switch Positions 4 — ON/RUN 5 — START 1 — ACC 2 — LOCK 3 — OFF If you try to remove the key before you place the NOTE: shift lever in PARK, the key may become temporarily trapped in the ignition cylinder. If this occurs, rotate the 14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always remove the key from the ignition and lock all the doors when leaving the vehicle unattended. Manual Transmission — If Equipped When the steering wheel is in the LOCK position, the steering and ignition systems are locked to provide antitheft protection for your vehicle. It may be difficult to turn the key from the LOCK position when starting your vehicle. Move the steering wheel left and right while turning the key until it turns easily. To remove the key: 1. Press and hold the release button located between the ignition switch and the instrument panel. 2. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position. 3. Remove the key from the ignition lock cylinder. Ignition Release Button 4 — ON/RUN 5 — START 1 — ACC 2 — LOCK 3 — OFF Locking Doors With A Key You can insert the key into the door lock cylinder with either side up. To lock the driver’s door, turn the key rearward. To unlock the driver’s door, turn the key forward. For external door lock lubrication, refer to “Maintenance Procedures” “Maintaining Your Vehicle”. in STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle with- out the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved approximately a half turn in either direction, and the key is not in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock. To Manually Lock the Steering Wheel With the engine running, rotate the steering wheel one- half revolution, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock engages. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15 To Release the Steering Wheel Lock Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine. If the key is difficult to turn, move the wheel slightly to the right or left to disengage the lock. If you turned the wheel to the right to engage NOTE: the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it. Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock System This system prevents the key from being removed unless the shift lever is in PARK. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the key is in the ACC, or ON/RUN position, and the brake pedal is pressed. SENTRY KEY姞 — IF EQUIPPED The Sentry Key威 prevents unauthorized vehicle opera- tion 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. 16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE The system uses ignition keys that have an embedded electronic chip (transponder) to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys 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 someone uses an invalid key to try to start the engine. NOTE: A key that has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key, even if it is cut to fit the ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle. During normal operation, after turning on the ignition switch, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used an invalid key to try to start the engine. Either of these conditions will result in the engine being shut off after two seconds. If the Vehicle Security 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 by an authorized dealer. CAUTION! The Sentry Key威 Immobilizer system is not compat- ible with some after-market remote starting systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection. All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics. Replacement Keys NOTE: Only keys that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle. Once a Sentry Key威 is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle. CAUTION! Always remove the Sentry Keys威 from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unat- tended. At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided with a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). Keep the PIN in a secure location. This number is required for authorized dealer replacement of keys. Du- plication of keys may be performed at an authorized dealer or by following the customer key programming THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17 procedure. This procedure consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle electronics. A blank key is one that has never been programmed. NOTE: When having the Sentry Key威 Immobilizer System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer. Customer Key Programming If you have two valid Sentry Keys威, you can program new Sentry Keys威 to the system by performing the following steps: 1. Cut the additional Sentry Key威 Transponder blank(s) to match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code. 2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position for at least three seconds, but no longer than 15 seconds. Then, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the first key. 18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 3. Insert the second valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds, a chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the second key. 4. Insert a blank Sentry Key威 into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on again for three seconds and then turn off. The new Sentry Key威 is programmed. The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter will also be pro- grammed during this procedure. Repeat this procedure to program up to eight keys. If you do not have a programmed Sentry Key威, contact your authorized dealer for details. 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 VEHICLE SECURITY ALARM — IF EQUIPPED The Vehicle Security Alarm monitors the vehicle doors and ignition for unauthorized operation. When the Ve- hicle Security Alarm is activated it will provide both audible and visible signals. The horn will sound repeat- edly for the three minutes and the headlights, park lamps and/or turn signals and Vehicle Security Light will flash for an additional 15 minutes. To Arm The System The Vehicle Security Alarm will set when you use the power door locks, or use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to lock the doors. After all the doors are locked and closed, the Vehicle Security Light in the instrument cluster will flash rapidly for approximately 15 seconds to signal that the Vehicle Security Alarm is arming. After the Vehicle Security Alarm is set, the Vehicle Security Light will flash at a slower rate to indicate that the Vehicle Security Alarm is armed. If the Vehicle Security Light stays on continu- NOTE: ously during vehicle operation, have the Vehicle Security Alarm checked by an authorized dealer. To Disarm The System Use the RKE transmitter to unlock the door. If something has triggered the Vehicle Security Alarm in your absence, the horn will sound three times when you unlock the doors. Check the vehicle for tampering. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19 The Vehicle Security Alarm will also disarm if the vehicle Sentry Key威 in inserted into the ignition and turned to ON/RUN. To exit alarming mode, press the RKE trans- mitter UNLOCK button or start the vehicle with a programmed Sentry Key威. The Vehicle Security Alarm is designed to protect your vehicle; however, you can create conditions where the Vehicle Security Alarm will arm unexpectedly. If you remain in the vehicle and lock the doors with the RKE transmitter, the alarm will sound when you pull the door handle to exit. NOTE: You may accidentally activate the Vehicle Secu- rity Alarm (horn sounds and lights flash) by entering the vehicle without using the RKE transmitter to unlock the door(s). The Vehicle Security Alarm can be disarmed with the RKE transmitter unlock button or by inserting a programmed Sentry Key威 into the ignition and turning the key to the ON/RUN position. 20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ILLUMINATED ENTRY Vehicles Equipped With Power Door Locks All interior lights will illuminate in the vehicle when the doors are unlocked using the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. The interior lights will remain on for 30 seconds after the last door is closed, or until all doors are closed and either the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN position or a RKE transmitter LOCK button is pressed. There is also a battery saver feature that will turn the interior lights off after eight minutes if the ignition is OFF and a door is left open or the dimmer control is in the interior lights ON 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) This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors or activate the Panic Alarm from distances up to approxi- mately 66 ft (20 m) using a Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. The RKE transmitter does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system. Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Transmitter the illuminated entry will NOTE: The line of transmission must not be blocked with metal objects. To Unlock The Doors Press and release the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter once to unlock only the driver’s door or twice to unlock all the doors. When the unlock button is pressed, initiate, and the parking lights will flash twice. The system can be programmed to unlock all the doors upon the first unlock button press by using the following procedure: 1. Press and hold the LOCK button on a programmed RKE transmitter. 2. Continue to hold the LOCK button for at least 4 sec- onds, but not longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the UNLOCK button. A single chime will sound to indicate that this feature has changed. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21 3. Release both buttons at the same time. 4. Test the feature while outside of the vehicle by press- ing the LOCK/UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter. NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmit- ter while you are inside the vehicle will activate the Vehicle Security Alarm. Opening a door with the Vehicle Security Alarm System activated will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button to deactivate the Vehicle Security Alarm System. 5. If the desired programming was not achieved, or to reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps. To Lock The Doors Press and release the LOCK button on the RKE transmit- ter to lock all doors. If the ignition is OFF, when the doors are locked the parking lights will flash on once and the horn will chirp once. 22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Horn Chirp Programming The horn chirp feature is shipped from the assembly plant activated. If desired, this feature can be disabled by using the following procedure: 1. Press and hold the LOCK button on the RKE trans- mitter. 2. Continue to hold the LOCK button for at least 4 sec- onds, but not longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the PANIC button. A single chime will sound to indicate that this feature has changed. 3. Release both buttons at the same time. 4. To reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps. 5. Test the horn chirp feature while outside of the vehicle by pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmitter with the ignition in the OFF position and the key removed. NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmit- ter while you are inside the vehicle will activate the Vehicle Security Alarm. Opening a door with the Vehicle Security Alarm activated will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button to deactivate the Vehicle Security Alarm System. 6. If the desired programming was not achieved, or to reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps. Flash Lamps With Lock Programming 1. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter. 2. Continue to hold the UNLOCK button for at least 4 seconds, but not longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the LOCK button. A single chime will sound to indicate that this feature has changed. 3. Release both buttons at the same time. 4. Test the Flash Lamps With Lock feature while outside of the vehicle by pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmitter with the ignition in the OFF position and the key removed. NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmit- ter while you are in the vehicle will activate the Vehicle Security Alarm. Opening a door with the Vehicle Security Alarm activated will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button to deactivate the Vehicle Security Alarm System. 5. If the desired programming was not achieved, or to reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps. Using The Panic Alarm To activate the Panic mode while the ignition is OFF, press and release the PANIC button on the RKE trans- mitter once. When the Panic mode is activated, the interior lights will illuminate, the headlights and parking lights will flash, and the horn will sound. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23 To cancel the Panic mode, press and release the PANIC button on the RKE transmitter a second time. Panic mode will automatically cancel after three minutes, or if the vehicle is started and or exceeds 15 mph (24 km/h). During the Panic Mode, the door locks and RKE systems will function normally. Panic mode will not disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm System, on vehicles so equipped. General Information This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. This device must accept any interference that may be received including interference that may cause undesired operation. 24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 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 RKE transmitter fails to operate from a normal distance, check for these two conditions: 1. Weak battery in the RKE transmitter. The expected life of a battery is five years. 2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station tower, airport transmitter, military base, and some mobile or CB radios. 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. Battery Replacement The recommended replacement battery is CR2032. NOTE: Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply. See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate 1. If the RKE transmitter is equipped with a screw, remove the screw. With the RKE transmitter buttons facing down, use a flat blade to pry the two halves of the RKE transmitter apart. Make sure not to damage the elastomer seal during removal. Separating RKE Transmitter Halves 2. Remove and replace the battery. When replacing the battery, match the + sign on battery to the + sign on the inside of the battery clip, located on the back cover. Avoid touching the new battery with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol. 3. To reassemble the RKE transmitter case, snap the two halves of the case together. Make sure there is an even “gap” between the two halves. If equipped, install and tighten the screw until snug. Test the RKE transmitter operation. REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED This system uses the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to start the engine conve- niently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of approximately 300 ft (91 m). THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25 NOTE: The vehicle must be equipped with an auto- matic transmission to be equipped with Remote Start. How To Use Remote Start All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will remote start: • Shift lever in PARK • Doors closed • Hood closed • Hazard switch off • Brake switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed) • Ignition key removed from ignition switch • Battery at an acceptable charge level • RKE PANIC button not pressed 26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains Carbon Mon- oxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Car- bon Monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled. • Keep Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitters away from children. Operation of the Remote Start System, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death. To Enter Remote Start 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 chirp twice (if programmed). Then, the engine will start and the vehicle will remain in the Remote Start mode for a 15-minute cycle. Remote Start mode. NOTE: • The park lamps will turn on and remain on during • For security, power window and power sunroof op- eration (if equipped) are disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode. • The engine can be started two consecutive times (two 15-minute cycles) with the RKE transmitter. However, the ignition switch must be cycled to the ON/RUN position before you can repeat the start sequence for a third cycle. Remote start will also cancel if any of the following occur: • The engine stalls or RPM exceeds 2500 • Any engine warning lamps come on • The hood is opened • The hazard switch is pressed • The transmission is moved out of PARK • The brake pedal is pressed To Exit Remote Start Mode Without Driving The Vehicle Press and release the REMOTE START button one time, or allow the engine to run for the entire 15-minute cycle. NOTE: To avoid unintentional shut downs, the system will disable the one time press of the REMOTE START button for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request. 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/RUN position. NOTE: The ignition switch must be in the ON/RUN position in order to drive the vehicle. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27 DOOR LOCKS Manual Door Locks All the doors can be manually locked from the inside by pushing down the door lock knob, located on the door trim panel. Both front doors may be opened from the inside with the door lock knob in the down or locked position. Manual Door Lock Knob 28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • For personal security and safety in the event of an accident, lock the vehicle doors as you drive, as well as when you park and leave the vehicle. • 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 accidentally locking your keys in the vehicle. Removing the key, or closing the door, will allow the locks to operate. A chime will sound if the key is in the ignition switch and the driver’s door is open, as a reminder to remove the key. Automatic Door Locks — If Equipped The doors will lock automatically if all of the following conditions are met: 1. The Automatic Door Locks feature is enabled 2. The transmission is in gear 3. All doors are closed 4. The throttle is pressed 5. The vehicle speed is above 15 mph (24 km/h) 6. The doors were not previously locked using the power door lock switch or Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter Automatic Door Locks Programming — If Equipped The Automatic Door Locks feature can be enabled or disabled as follows: THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29 • For vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) — If Equipped/Personal Settings (Customer-Programmable Features)” in “Un- derstanding Your Instrument Panel” for further infor- mation. • For vehicles not equipped with the EVIC, perform the following procedure: 1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition switch. 2. Within 15 seconds, cycle the ignition switch between LOCK and ON/RUN and then back to LOCK four times ending up in the LOCK position (do not start the engine). 3. Within 30 seconds, press the power door LOCK switch to lock the doors. 4. A single chime will indicate the completion of the programming. 30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 5. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting. NOTE: • If you do not hear the chime it means that the system did not enter the programming mode and you will need to repeat the procedure. • Use the Automatic Door Locks feature in accordance with local laws. Auto Unlock On Exit Feature — If Equipped This feature unlocks all of the doors of the vehicle when any door is opened. This will occur only after the vehicle has been shifted into the PARK position after the vehicle has been driven (shifted out of PARK and the doors closed). Auto Unlock Feature Programming The Customer Programming sequence to disable or en- able Auto Unlock: 1. Enter your vehicle and close all the doors. 2. Fasten your seat belt. (Fastening the seat belt will cancel any chiming that may be confusing during this programming procedure.) 3. Insert the key into the ignition. 4. Within 15 seconds, cycle the key from the LOCK position to the ON/RUN position and back to LOCK position, a minimum of four times; ending in the LOCK position. (Do not start the engine.) 5. Within 30 seconds, press the driver’s door LOCK switch in the UNLOCK direction. 6. A single chime will sound to indicate the feature has been changed. 7. To reactivate the feature, repeat the above steps. 8. If a chime is not heard, program mode was canceled before the feature could be changed. If necessary, repeat the above procedure. Child-Protection Door Lock To provide a safer environment for children riding in the rear seat, the rear doors of your vehicle have the child- protection door lock system. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31 To use the system, open each rear door, slide the lever up to engage the locks, and down to disengage the child- protection locks. When the system on a door is engaged, that door can only be opened by using the outside door handle, even if the inside door lock is in the unlocked position. Child-Protection Door Lock Location Child Lock Control 32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 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. NOTE: • After setting the Child-Protection Door Lock system, 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 switch to the UNLOCK position, roll down the window and open the door with the outside door handle. WINDOWS Power Windows The control on the left front door has up-down switches that give you finger-tip control of all the power windows. There is a single opening and closing switch on the passenger doors for passenger window control. The windows will operate when the ignition switch is turned to the ON/RUN or ACC position, and for ten minutes after the ignition is turned OFF unless the driver’s door is opened. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33 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. Auto-Down — Driver’s Side Only The driver’s window switch has an Auto-Down feature. Push the window switch past the first detent, release, and the window will go down automatically. To cancel the Auto-Down movement, operate the switch in either the up or down direction and release the switch. Window Lockout Switch The Window Lockout Switch on the driver’s door allows you to disable the window control on the other doors. To disable the window controls on the other doors, press the Power Window Switch 34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Window Lockout button. To enable the window controls, press the Window Lockout button a second time. windows down or partially open. This is a normal occurrence and can be minimized. If the rear windows are open and buffeting occurs, open the front and rear windows together to minimize the buffeting. positions OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS Some of the most important safety features in your vehicle are the restraint systems: • Three-point lap and shoulder belts for all seating • Advanced Front Airbags for driver and front passen- • Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC) for the driver and passengers seated next to a window — if equipped • An energy-absorbing steering column and steering ger wheel Power Window Lockout Switch 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 • Knee bolsters for front seat occupants • Front seat belts incorporate pretensioners that may enhance occupant protection by managing occupant energy during an impact event 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. If you will be carrying children too small for adult-sized seat belts, the seat belts or the Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH) feature also can be used to hold infant and child restraint systems. For more information on LATCH, refer to Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH). THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35 NOTE: The Advanced Front Airbags have a multistage inflator design. This allows the airbag to have different rates of inflation based on the severity and type of collision. Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize the risk of harm from a deploying airbag: 1. Children 12 years old and under should always ride buckled up in a rear seat. WARNING! Infants in rear facing child restraints should never ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger Advanced Front Airbag. An airbag deployment can cause severe injury or death to infants in that posi- tion. Children that are not big enough to wear the vehicle seat belt properly (see section on Child Restraints) should be 36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE secured in the rear seat in child restraints or belt- positioning booster seats. Older children who do not use child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats should ride properly buckled up in the rear seat. Never allow children to slide the shoulder belt behind them or under their arm. If a child from 1 to 12 years old (not in a rear facing child seat) must ride in the front passenger seat, move the seat as far back as possible and use the proper child restraint. (Refer to “Child Restraints”) You should read the instructions provided with your child restraint to make sure that you are using it properly. 2. All occupants should always wear their lap and shoulder belts properly. 3. The driver and front passenger seats should be moved back as far as practical to allow the Advanced Front Airbags room to inflate. 4. Do not lean against the door or window. If your vehicle has side airbags, and deployment occurs, the side airbags will inflate forcefully into the space be- tween you and the door. 5. If the airbag system in this vehicle needs to be modified to accommodate a disabled person, contact the Customer Center. Phone numbers are provided under ⴖIf You Need Assistanceⴖ. 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. (Continued) WARNING! (Continued) • Being too close to the steering wheel or instrument panel during Advanced Front Airbag deployment could cause serious injury, including death. Air- bags need room to inflate. Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to reach the steering wheel or instrument panel. • Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) also need room to inflate. Do not lean against the door or window. Sit upright in the center of the seat. • In an accident, you and your passengers can suffer much greater injuries if you are not properly buckled up. You can strike the interior of your vehicle or other passengers, or you can be thrown out of the vehicle. Always be sure you and others in your vehicle are buckled up properly. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37 Buckle up even though you are an excellent driver, even on short trips. Someone on the road may be a poor driver and cause an accident 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 an accident. 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, have combination lap/shoulder belts. The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during very sudden stops or accidents. This feature allows the shoulder part of the belt to move freely with 38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE you under normal conditions. However, in an accident the belt will lock and reduce the risk of you striking the inside of the vehicle or being thrown out. The seat belts in the passenger seating positions are equipped with an Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) to secure a Child Restraint System (CRS). For additional information on ALR, refer to “Automatic Locking Mode” in this section. The following chart defines the seating positions with this feature. Left Center First Row Second Row CRS Lock CRS Lock — If Equipped Right CRS Lock CRS Lock If the passenger seating position is equipped with an ALR the proper fastening procedure is as follows: 1. For Child Restraint System (CRS): Pull the seat belt all the way out, then latch the buckle and allow the excess webbing to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the Automatic Locking mode. This will secure the child restraint tightly and properly. 2. For regular occupants: Only pull the belt webbing out far enough to comfortably wrap around the occupant’s mid-section. If the belt is pulled fully out, allow the belt to fully retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. Then, carefully pull out only the amount of webbing necessary to latch the buckle. WARNING! • It is dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In an accident, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. (Continued) THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39 WARNING! (Continued) • 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. WARNING! (Continued) using a seat belt properly. • 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 an accident the best. Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make your injuries in an accident much worse. You might suffer internal injuries, or you could even slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instructions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep your passengers safe, too. (Continued) 40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions 1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and adjust the seat. plate and pull out the belt. Slide the latch plate up the webbing as far as necessary to allow the belt to go around your lap. Pulling Out Belt and Latch Plate 2. The seat belt latch plate is above the back of the front seat, next to your arm in the rear seat. Grasp the latch Latch Plate To Buckle 3. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.” WARNING! • A belt 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 properly. 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 41 WARNING! (Continued) • A belt that is worn under your arm is dangerous. Your body could strike the inside surfaces of the vehicle in an accident, increasing head and neck injury. A belt worn under the arm can cause internal injuries. Ribs aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. Wear the belt over your shoulder so that your strongest bones will take the force in a collision. • A shoulder belt placed behind you will not protect you from injury during an accident. You are more likely to hit your head in a collision if you do not wear your shoulder belt. The lap and shoulder belt are meant to be used together. 4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull up on the shoulder belt. To loosen the lap belt if it is too tight, 42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE tilt the latch plate and pull on the lap belt. A snug belt reduces the risk of sliding under the belt in an accident. Removing Slack From Belt WARNING! • A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of internal injury in an accident. The belt forces won’t be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as possible and keep it snug. • A twisted belt will not protect you properly. 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 immediately 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 an accident and leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after an accident if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.). Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage In the front and second row outboard seats, the shoulder belt can be adjusted upward or downward to help THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43 position the belt away from your neck. Press the release button to release the anchorage, and then move it up or down to the position that fits you best. Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage (Extended Cab) 44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 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, you will prefer a higher position. When you release the anchorage, try to move it down to make sure that it is locked in the desired position. NOTE: The adjustable upper shoulder belt anchorage is equipped with an Easy Up feature. This feature allows the shoulder belt anchorage to be adjusted in the upward position without pushing the release button. To verify the shoulder belt anchorage is latched, pull downward on the shoulder belt anchorage until is locked into position. Center Lap Belts The front center seating position has a lap belt only. To fasten the lap belt, slide the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.” To lengthen the lap belt, tilt the latch plate and pull. To remove slack, pull the loose end of the webbing. Wear the lap belt snug against the hips. Sit back and erect in the seat, then adjust the belt as tightly as is comfortable. it WARNING! and under the belt in a collision. • A lap belt worn too loose or too high is dangerous. • A belt worn too loose can allow you to slip down • A belt that is too loose or too high will apply crash forces to the abdomen, not to the stronger hip bones. In either case, the risk of internal injuries is greater. Wear a lap belt low and snug. 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. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45 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 Belts In Passenger Seating Positions The seat belts in the passenger seating positions are equipped with a cinching latch plate which are used to secure a child restraint system. For additional informa- tion, refer to “Installing Child Restraints Using The Vehicle Seat Belt” under the “Child Restraints” section. The following chart defines the type of feature for each seating position. Left First Row Second Row Cinch Center Cinch – if equipped Cinch – if equipped Right Cinch Cinch 46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE If the passenger seating position is equipped with an ALR and is being used for normal usage: Only pull the belt webbing out far enough to comfortably wrap around the occupant’s mid-section so as to not activate the ALR. If the ALR is activated, you will hear a ratcheting sound as the belt retracts. Allow the webbing to retract completely in this case and then carefully pull out only the amount of webbing necessary to comfort- ably wrap around the occupant’s mid-section. Slide the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a ⬙click.⬙ Automatic Locking Retractor Mode (ALR) — If Equipped In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre- locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt. The Automatic Locking Mode is avail- able on all passenger-seating positions with a combina- tion lap/shoulder belt. Use the Automatic Locking Mode anytime a child safety seat is installed in a seating position that has a belt with this feature. Children 12 years old and under should always be properly restrained in the rear seat. 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 hear 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/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the Automatic Locking Mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode. WARNING! • The belt and retractor assembly must be replaced if the seat belt assembly Automatic Locking Re- tractor (ALR) feature or any other seat belt func- tion is not working properly when checked ac- cording to the procedures in the Service Manual. • Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions. Seat Belt Pretensioners The seat belts for both front seating positions are equipped with pretensioning devices that are designed to remove slack from the seat belt in the event of an accident. These devices may improve the performance of the seat belt by assuring that the belt is tight around the occupant early in a collision. Pretensioners work for all size occupants, including those in child restraints. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 47 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). Like the airbags, the pretension- ers are single use items. A deployed pretensioner or a deployed airbag must be replaced immediately. Energy Management Feature This vehicle has a safety belt system with an Energy Management feature in the front seating positions to help further reduce the risk of injury in the event of a head-on accident. This safety belt system has a retractor assembly that is designed to release webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help reduce the belt force acting on the occupant’s chest. 48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • The belt and retractor assembly must be replaced if the seat belt assembly Automatic Locking Re- tractor (ALR) feature or any other seat belt func- tion is not working properly when checked ac- cording to the procedures in the Service Manual. • Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in accidents. Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System (BeltAlert姞) BeltAlert威 is a feature intended to remind the driver to fasten their seatbelt. This feature is active whenever the ignition is on. If the driver is unbelted, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will turn on and remain on until the driver seatbelt is fastened. BeltAlert威 triggers within 60 seconds of vehicle speed over 5 mph (8 km/h). The reminder sequence lasts for 96 seconds or until the driver seatbelt is fastened. After the sequence completes, the Seat Belt Reminder Light remains illuminated until the driver seatbelt is fastened. The driver should instruct all other occupants to fasten their seatbelts. If the driver seatbelt is unbuckled while traveling at speeds greater than 5 mph (8 km/h), BeltAlert威 will chime as a single notification and illuminate the Seat Belt Reminder Light, then will proceed to the 96 second reminder sequence. 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). BeltAlert威 Programming Chrysler Group LLC does not recommend deactivating the BeltAlert威. BeltAlert威 can be enabled or disabled by your authorized dealer, or by following these steps: NOTE: The following steps must occur within the first 60 seconds of the ignition switch being turned to the ON/RUN or START position. 1. With all doors closed, and the ignition switch in any position except ON/RUN or START, buckle the driver’s seatbelt. 2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position, (engine does not need to be running). Wait for the Seat Belt Reminder Light to turn off. 3. Within 60 seconds of turning the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position, unbuckle and then re-buckle the driver’s seat belt at least three times within 60 seconds, ending with the seat belt buckled. 4. Turn off the engine. A single chime will sound to signify that you have successfully completed the programming. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49 NOTE: Watch the Seat Belt reminder Light to turn on while the seat belt retracts and turn off while re-buckling the seat belt. 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 while the driver’s seat belt remains unbuckled. Seat Belts And Pregnant Women We recommend that pregnant women use seat belts throughout their pregnancy. Keeping the mother safe is the best way to keep the baby safe. Pregnant women should wear the lap part of the belt across the thighs and as snug against 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 an accident. 50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Seat Belt Extender If a seat belt is too short, even when fully extended, your authorized dealer can provide you with a seat belt extender. This extender should be used only if the existing belt is not long enough. When it is not required, remove the extender and store it. WARNING! Using a seat belt extender when not needed can increase the risk of injury in an accident. Only use the seat belt extender when the lap belt is not long enough when it is worn low and snug, and in the recommended seating positions. Remove and store the extender when not needed. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) – Airbags This vehicle has Advanced Front Airbags for both the driver and front passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint systems. The driver’s Advanced Front Air- bag is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger’s Advanced Front Airbag is mounted in the instrument panel, above the glove compartment. The words SRS AIRBAG are embossed on the airbag covers. Advanced Front Airbag And Knee Bolster Locations 1 — Driver And Passenger Advanced Front Airbags 2 — Knee Bolster NOTE: These airbags are certified to the new Federal regulations for Advanced Airbags. The Advanced Front Airbags have a multistage inflator design. This allows the airbag to have different rates of inflation based on the severity and type of collision. This vehicle may be equipped with driver and/or front passenger seat track position sensors that may adjust the inflation rate of the Advanced Front Airbags based upon seat position. This vehicle may be equipped with a driver and/or front passenger seat belt buckle switch that detects whether the driver or front passenger seat belt is fastened. The seat belt buckle switch may adjust the inflation rate of the Advanced Front Airbags. This vehicle may also be equipped with Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC) to protect the THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51 driver, front, and rear passengers sitting next to a win- dow. If the vehicle is equipped with SABIC airbags, they are located above the side windows and their covers are also labeled: SRS AIRBAG. NOTE: • Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior trim, • After any accident, the vehicle should be taken to an but they will open during airbag deployment. authorized dealer immediately. Airbag System Components Your vehicle may be equipped with the following airbag system components: • Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) • Airbag Warning Light • Steering Wheel and Column • Instrument Panel 52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE • Knee Impact Bolster • Driver Advanced Front Airbag • Passenger Advanced Front Airbag • Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC) • Front and Side Impact Sensors • Front Seat Belt Pretensioners, Seat Belt Buckle Switch, and Seat Track Position Sensors Advanced Front Airbag Features The Advanced Front Airbag system has multistage driver and front passenger airbags. This system provides output appropriate to the severity and type of collision as determined by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), which may receive information from the front impact sensors. The first stage inflator is triggered immediately during an impact that requires airbag deployment. This low output is used in less severe collisions. A higher energy output is used for more severe collisions. WARNING! • No objects should be placed over or near the airbag on the instrument panel, because any such objects could cause harm if the vehicle is in a collision severe enough to cause the airbag to inflate. (Continued) WARNING! (Continued) • Do not put anything on or around the airbag covers or attempt to open them manually. You may damage the airbags and you could be injured because the airbags may no longer be functional. The protective covers for the airbag cushions are designed to open only when the airbags are inflat- ing. • Do not drill, cut or tamper with the knee bolster in • Do not mount any accessories to the knee bolster such as alarm lights, stereos, citizen band radios, etc. any way. (Continued) THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53 WARNING! (Continued) • 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 instal- lation on the vehicle roof. Do not drill into the roof of the vehicle for any reason. Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) — If Equipped SABIC airbags may offer side-impact protection to front and rear seat outboard occupants in addition to that provided by the body structure. Each airbag features inflated chambers placed adjacent to the head of each outboard occupant that reduce the potential for side- impact head injuries. The curtains deploy downward, covering both windows on the impact side. 54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE NOTE: Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior trim, but they will open during airbag deployment. The system includes side impact sensors that are cali- brated to deploy the side airbags during impacts that require side airbag occupant protection. WARNING! • If your vehicle is equipped with left and right Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC), do not stack luggage or other cargo up high enough to block the location of the SABIC. The area where the SABIC is located should re- main free from any obstructions. • Do not use accessory seat covers or place objects between you and the side airbags; the performance could be adversely affected and/or objects could be pushed into you, causing serious injury. Knee Impact Bolsters The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees of the driver and the front passenger, and position front occu- pants for the best interaction with the Advanced Front Airbags. Along with seat belts and pretensioners, Advanced Front Airbags work with the knee bolsters to provide improved protection for the driver and front passenger. Side airbags also work with seat belts to improve occupant protection. Airbag Deployment Sensors And Controls Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) The ORC is part of a Federally regulated safety system required for this vehicle. The ORC determines if deployment of the front and/or side airbags in a frontal or side collision is required. Based on the impact sensor’s signals, a central electronic ORC deploys the Advanced Front Airbags, SABIC air- bags — if equipped, and front seat belt pretensioners, as required, depending on the severity and type of impact. Advanced Front Airbags are designed to provide addi- tional protection by supplementing the seat belts in certain frontal collisions depending on the severity and type of collision. Advanced Front Airbags are not ex- pected to reduce the risk of injury in rear, rollover, or side collisions. The Advanced Front Airbags will not deploy in all frontal collisions, including some that may produce substantial vehicle damage — for example, some pole collisions, truck underrides, and angle offset collisions. On the other hand, depending on the type and location of impact, Advanced Front Airbags may deploy in crashes with little vehicle front-end damage but that produce a severe initial deceleration. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55 The side airbags will not deploy in all side collisions. Side airbag deployment will depend on the severity and type of collision. Because airbag sensors measure vehicle deceleration over time, vehicle speed and damage by themselves are not good indicators of whether or not an airbag should have deployed. Seat belts are necessary for your protection in all acci- dents, and also are needed to help keep you in position, away from an inflating airbag. The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the airbag system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON/RUN position. If the key is in the LOCK position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition, the airbag system is not on and the airbags will not inflate. 56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE The ORC contains a backup power supply system that may deploy the airbags even if the battery loses power or it becomes disconnected prior to deployment. Also, the ORC turns on the Airbag Warning Light in the instrument panel for approxi- mately four to eight seconds for a self-check when the ignition is first turned on. After the self-check, the Airbag Warning Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the Airbag Warning Light, either momentarily or continuously. A single chime will sound if the light comes on again after initial startup. It also includes diagnostics that will illuminate the instru- ment cluster Airbag Warning Light if a malfunction is noted that could affect the airbag system. 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 as a bulb check when the ignition is first turned on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you drive, have an authorized dealer service the airbag system immediately. Driver And Passenger Advanced Front Airbag Inflator Units The Driver and Passenger Advanced Front Airbag Infla- tor Units are located in the center of the steering wheel and on the right side of the instrument panel. When the ORC detects a collision requiring the Advanced Front Airbags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of non-toxic gas is generated to inflate the Advanced Front Airbags. Different airbag inflation rates are possible, based on the collision type and severity. The steering wheel hub trim cover and the upper right side of the instrument panel separate and fold out of the way as the airbags inflate to their full size. The airbags fully inflate in about 50 to 70 milliseconds. This is about half of the time it takes to blink your eyes. The airbags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and front passenger. The Advanced Front Airbag gas is vented through the vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this way, the airbags do not interfere with your control of the vehicle. Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) Inflator Units — If Equipped During collisions where the impact is confined to a particular area of the side of the vehicle, the ORC may deploy the SABIC airbags, depending on the severity and type of collision. In these events, the ORC will deploy the SABIC only on the impact side of the vehicle. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57 A quantity of non-toxic gas is generated to inflate the SABIC. The inflating SABIC pushes the outside edge of the headliner out of the way and covers the window. The SABIC inflates in about 30 milliseconds (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 SABIC inflates. This especially applies to children. The SABIC is only about 3-1/2 in (9 cm) thick when it is inflated. Because airbag sensors estimate deceleration over time, vehicle speed and damage are not good indicators of whether or not an airbag should have deployed. Front And Side Impact Sensors In front and side impacts, front and side impact sensors can aid the ORC in determining the appropriate response to certain impact events. 58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Enhanced Accident Response System In the event of an impact causing airbag deployment, if the communication network remains intact, and the power remains intact, depending on the nature of the event the ORC will determine whether to have the Enhanced Accident Response System perform the follow- ing functions: • Cut off fuel to the engine. • Flash hazard lights as long as the battery has power or • Turn on the interior lights, which remain on as long as the battery has power or until the ignition key is removed. until the ignition key is turned off. • Unlock the doors automatically. If A Deployment Occurs The Advanced Front Airbags are designed to deflate immediately after deployment. NOTE: Front and/or side airbags will not deploy in all collisions. This does not mean something is wrong with the airbag system. If you do have a collision which deploys the airbags, any or all of the following may occur: • The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause 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. 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 non-toxic 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 in- structions for cleaning. Do not drive your vehicle after the airbags have de- ployed. If you are involved in another collision, the airbags will not be in place to protect you. WARNING! Deployed airbags and seat belt pretensioners cannot protect you in another collision. Have the airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and the front seat belt retrac- tor assemblies replaced by an authorized dealer im- mediately. Also, have the Occupant Restraint Con- troller (ORC) system serviced as well. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 59 Maintaining Your Airbag System WARNING! • Modifications to any part of the airbag system could cause it to fail when you need it. You could be injured if the airbag system is not there to protect you. Do not modify the components or wiring, including adding any kind of badges or stickers to the steering wheel hub trim cover or the upper right side of the instrument panel. Do not modify the front bumper, vehicle body structure, or add aftermarket side steps or running boards. • It is dangerous to try to repair any part of the airbag system yourself. Be sure to tell anyone who works on your vehicle that it has an airbag system. (Continued) 60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! (Continued) • Do not attempt to modify any part of your airbag system. The airbag may inflate accidentally or may not function properly if modifications are made. Take your vehicle to an authorized dealer for any airbag system service. If your seat, including your trim cover and cushion, needs to be serviced in any way (including removal or loosening/tightening of seat attachment bolts), take the vehicle to your authorized dealer. Only manufacturer approved seat accessories may be used. If it is necessary to modify the airbag system for persons with dis- abilities, contact your authorized dealer. Airbag Warning Light You will want to have the airbags ready to inflate for your protection in a collision. The Airbag Warning Light monitors the internal circuits and interconnecting wiring associated with airbag system electrical components. While the airbag system is designed to be maintenance free. If any of the following occurs, have an authorized dealer ser- vice the airbag system immediately. • The Airbag Warning Light does not come on during the four to eight seconds when the ignition switch is first turned to the ON/RUN position. • The Airbag Warning Light remains on after the four to • The Airbag Warning Light comes on intermittently or eight-second interval. remains on while driving. If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine NOTE: related gauges are not working, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may also be disabled. The airbags may not be ready to inflate for your protection. Promptly check the fuse block for blown fuses. Refer to the label located on the inside of the fuse block cover for the proper airbag fuses. See your authorized dealer if the fuse is good. Event Data Recorder (EDR) This vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder (EDR). The main purpose of an EDR is to record, in certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as an air bag deployment or hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in understanding how a vehicle’s systems per- formed. The EDR is designed to record data related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time, typically 30 seconds or less. The EDR in this vehicle is designed to record such data as: • How various systems in your vehicle were operating; • Whether or not the driver and passenger safety belts were buckled/fastened; THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61 • How far (if at all) the driver was depressing the accelerator and/or brake pedal; and, • How fast the vehicle was traveling. These data can help provide a better understanding of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur. NOTE: EDR data are recorded by your vehicle only if a non-trivial crash situation occurs; no data are recorded by the EDR under normal driving conditions and no per- sonal data (e.g., name, gender, age, and crash location) are recorded. However, other parties, such as law en- forcement, could combine the EDR data with the type of personally identifying data routinely acquired during a crash investigation. 62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE To read data recorded by an EDR, special equipment is required, and access to the vehicle or the EDR is needed. In addition to the vehicle manufacturer, other parties, such as law enforcement, that have the special equip- ment, can read the information if they have access to the vehicle or the EDR. 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 projectile inside the vehicle. The force required to hold even an infant on your lap can become so great that you could not hold the child, no matter how strong you are. The child and others could be badly injured. Any child riding in your vehicle should be in a proper restraint for the child’s size. There are different sizes and types of restraints for children from newborn size to the child almost large enough for an adult seat belt. Always check the child seat owner’s manual to ensure you have the right seat for your child. Use the restraint that is correct for your child. 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 seat belt or the LATCH child THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 63 restraint anchorage system. (Refer to “LATCH - Child Seat Anchorage System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren”.) WARNING! 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 are older than one year old. These child seats are also held 64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE in the vehicle by the seat belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system. (Refer to “LATCH - Child Seat Anchorage System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren”.) • The belt-positioning booster seat is for children weigh- ing more than 40 lbs (18 kg), but who are still too small to fit the vehicle’s seat belts properly. If the child cannot sit with knees bent over the seat cushion while the child’s back is against the seatback, they need a belt-positioning booster seat. The child and booster seat are held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt. Children Too Large For Booster Seats • Children who are large enough to wear the shoulder belt comfortably, and whose legs are long enough to bend over the front of the seat when their back is against the seat back should use the lap/shoulder belt in a rear seat. as possible. • 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 • 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. slouching can move the belt out of position. For additional information, NOTE: to www.seatcheck.org or call 1–866–SEATCHECK. Cana- dian residents should refer to Transport Canada’s web- site for additional information: http://www.tc.gc.ca/ roadsafety/safedrivers/childsafety/index.htm refer 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 infant restraint should only be used in a rear seat of a vehicle that does not have an airbag off switch. A rearward-facing infant restraint in the front seat may be struck by a deploying passenger airbag, which may cause se- vere or fatal injury to the infant. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your child restraint: • Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65 Standards. The manufacturer recommends that you try a child restraint in the vehicle seats where you will use it before you buy it. • The restraint must be appropriate for your child’s weight and height. Check the label on the restraint for weight and height limits. • Carefully follow the instructions that come with the restraint. If you install the restraint improperly, it may not work when you need it. • The Extended Cab first, and Crew Cab second row outside seating positions, have cinching latch plates. These are designed to keep the lap portion tight around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to use a locking clip. If the seat belt has a cinching latch plate, pulling up on the shoulder portion of the lap/shoulder belt will tighten the belt. The cinching latch plate will keep the belt tight; however, any seat belt system will loosen with time, so check the belt occasionally and pull it tight, if necessary. 66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE • Buckle the child into the restraint exactly as the manufacturer’s instructions tell you. WARNING! When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the vehicle with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle. Do not leave it loose in the vehicle. In a sudden stop or accident, it could strike the occupants or seatbacks and cause serious personal injury. LATCH - Child Seat Anchorage System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren) — If Equipped Each vehicle is equipped with the child restraint anchor- age system called LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren. The LATCH system provides for the installation of the child restraint without using the vehicle’s seat belts, instead securing the child restraint using lower anchorages and upper tether straps from the child restraint to the vehicle structure. LATCH- compatible child restraint systems are now available. However, because the lower anchorages are to be intro- duced over a period of years, child restraint systems having attachments for those anchorages will continue to also have features for installation using the vehicle’s seat belts. Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for connection to the top tether anchorages have been avail- able for some time. For some older child restraints, many child restraint manufacturers offer add-on tether strap kits or retro-fit kits. You are urged to take advantage of all the available attachments provided with your child re- straint in any vehicle. Extended Cab • The Extended Cab right rear (if equipped with a rear seat) passenger seating position has lower anchorages for LATCH-equipped child restraints. LATCH Anchors THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67 of are capable Crew Cab • The Crew Cab second row seat has lower anchorages that accommodating LATCH- compatible child seats having flexible, webbing- mounted lower attachments at all three seating posi- tions. Child seats with fixed lower attachments must be installed in the outboard positions only. Regardless of the specific type of lower attachment, never install LATCH-compatible child seats such that two seats share a common lower anchorage. If you are installing LATCH-compatible child restraints in adjacent rear seating positions, you can use the LATCH anchors or the vehicle’s seat belt for the outboard position, but you must use the vehicle’s seat belt at the center position. 68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE If your child restraints are not LATCH-compatible, you can only install the child restraints using the vehicle’s seat belts. Refer to “Installing The LATCH- Compatible Child Restraint System”. LATCH Anchors Installing The LATCH-Compatible Child Restraint System — if equipped We urge you to carefully follow the directions of the manufacturer when installing your child restraint. Not all child restraint systems will be installed as described here. Again, carefully follow the installation instructions that were provided with the child restraint system. The rear seat lower anchorages are round bars, located at the rear of the seat cushion where it meets the seatback, and are just visible when you lean into the vehicle 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 at each LATCH seating position (Refer to “Child Restraint Tether Anchor”.) Many, but not all, restraint systems will be equipped with separate straps on each side, with each having a hook or connector for attachment to the lower anchorage and a means of adjusting the tension in the strap. 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 child seat adjusters on the lower straps and on the tether strap so that you can more easily attach the hooks or connectors to the vehicle anchorages. Next, attach the lower hooks or connectors over the top of the anchorage bars, pushing aside the seat cover material. Then, attach the tether strap to the anchorage located on the back of the seat, being careful to route the tether strap to provide the most direct path between the anchor and the child restraint. If your vehicle is equipped with adjustable rear head restraints, raise the head re- straint and route the tether strap under the head restraint and between the two posts. Finally, tighten all three straps as you push the child restraint rearward and THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 69 downward into the seat, removing slack in the straps according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instruc- tions. NOTE: When using the LATCH attaching system to install a child restraint, please ensure that all seat belts not being used for occupant restraints are stowed and out of reach of children. It is recommended that before installing the child restraint, buckle the seat belt so the seat belt is tucked behind the child restraint and out of reach. If the buckled seat belt interferes with the child restraint installation, instead of tucking the seat belt behind the child restraint, route the seat belt through the child restraint belt path and then buckle it. This should stow the seat belt out of the reach of an inquisitive child. Remind all children in the vehicle that the seat belts are not toys and should not be played with, and never leave your child unattended in the vehicle. 70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR 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 Belt The passenger seat belts are equipped with cinching latch plates to secure a Child Restraint System (CRS). These types of seat belts are designed to keep the lap portion of the seat belt tight around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to use a locking clip. The ALR will make a ratcheting noise if you extract the entire belt from the retractor and then allow the belt to retract into the retractor. For additional information on ALR, refer to “Automatic Locking Mode” description under “Seat Belts In Passenger Seating Positions” section. The chart below defines the seating positions with an Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) or a cinching latch plate. Driver Center First Row Second Row CRS Lock CRS Lock — If Equipped Passenger CRS Lock CRS Lock Installing a Child Restraint with a Cinching Latch Plate: 1. To install a child restraint with a cinching latch plate, first, pull enough of the seat belt webbing from the retractor to route it through the belt path of the child restraint. Slide the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.” 2. Finally, pull on any excess webbing to tighten the lap portion around the child restraint. Any seat belt system will loosen with time, so check the belt occasionally, and pull it tight if necessary. 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, 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. Child Restraint Tether Anchor The Extended Cab model has one routing strap located at the bottom of the rear outboard seating position. The tether anchor itself is located in the center of vehicle, in between the THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 71 two seating positions. When there is a rear seat delete option, the tether anchorage located on the cab back panel is designed to be used for the front seat center seating position. The Crew Cab model has three anchor- ages located behind each of the rear seating positions

Boost Classifieds - Car Advice, Reviews, Events & Classifieds

2011 Dodge Dakota Owners Manual