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Dodge 2009 Ram 1500 User Manual

Dodge 2009 Ram 1500
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2009 RAM TRUCK
RAM TRUCK
Chrysler LLC
81-326-0927
Third Edition Printed in U.S.A.
OWNER’S MANUAL
2009
150890 09 Ram Truck OM.indd 1150890 09 Ram Truck OM.indd 1 9/29/08 7:39:05 PM9/29/08 7:39:05 PM

Table of Contents

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Dodge 2009 Ram 1500 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandDodge
Model2009 Ram 1500
CategoryAutomobile
LanguageEnglish

Summary

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Introduction

Overview of the owner's manual and its purpose.

How To Use This Manual

Guidance on how to navigate and utilize the manual's sections effectively.

Warnings And Cautions

Important safety alerts and cautions for vehicle operation.

Van Conversions/Campers

Information regarding modifications for van conversions and campers.

Vehicle Identification Number

Location and significance of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Vehicle Modifications/Alterations

Discussion of modifications and alterations to the vehicle.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Mirrors

Information on inside and outside mirrors, including automatic dimming.

uconnect phone — If Equipped

Overview of the uconnect phone system, operation, and features.

Voice Recognition (VR) System — If Equipped

Explains how to use the voice recognition system for vehicle controls.

Seats

Details on manual and power seat adjustments, head restraints, and features.

To Open And Close The Hood

Instructions on how to open and close the vehicle hood.

Lights

Information on interior lights, battery saver, headlight delay, and exterior lighting.

Windshield Wipers And Washers

How to operate windshield wipers and washers.

Tilt Steering Column

How to adjust the steering column tilt.

Driver Adjustable Pedals — If Equipped

How to adjust the accelerator and brake pedals for driver comfort.

Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped

Instructions on activating, setting, and deactivating the cruise control system.

Overhead Console — If Equipped

Features of the optional overhead consoles, including lights and garage door opener.

Overhead Console With Compass/Temperature Mini-Trip Computer — If Equipped

Details on the compass, temperature display, and trip computer functions.

Garage Door Opener — If Equipped

How to program and use the HomeLink system.

Power Sunroof — If Equipped

Operation of the power sunroof, pinch protection, and sunshade.

Electrical Power Outlets

Location and use of vehicle power outlets.

Cigar Lighter And Ash Receiver

Location and operation of the cigar lighter and ash receiver.

Cupholders

Types and locations of cupholders in the vehicle.

Storage

Storage compartments, including center console and rear seat storage.

Rear Window Features

Information on rear window defroster and power sliding rear window.

Fold Flat Load Floor — If Equipped

How to fold the load floor for cargo storage.

Pickup Box

Features of the pickup box and its utility.

Slide-In Campers

Information regarding camper applications and recommendations.

Camper Applications

Specific information on using campers with the vehicle.

Easy-Off Tailgate

Steps for removing the tailgate for loading.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Instrument Panel Features

Overview of instrument panel features for Ram Truck and Power Wagon models.

Instrument Cluster – Base

Description and layout of the base instrument cluster.

Instrument Cluster – Premium

Description and layout of the premium instrument cluster.

Instrument Cluster Description

Detailed explanation of various instrument cluster indicators and gauges.

Electronic Digital Clock

How to set and use the electronic digital clock.

Operation Instructions - Radio Mode

How to operate the radio in various modes (AM/FM, SEEK, MUTE).

Operation Instructions - (CD Mode For CD Audio Play)

How to play audio CDs and manage discs in the player.

Operation Instructions - (CD Mode For MP3 Audio Play)

How to play MP3 discs, including file system and media format support.

CD/DVD Maintenance

Precautions for keeping CDs and DVDs in good condition.

Radio Operation And Cellular Phones

How cellular phone operation can affect radio performance.

Climate Controls

How to operate the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

Heater Only — If Equipped

How to use the heater-only function of the climate control.

Air Conditioning And Heating — If Equipped

How to operate the air conditioning and heating system.

Air Conditioning With Dual Zone Temperature Control — If Equipped

How dual zone temperature control works for driver and passenger.

Operating Tips

Tips for fast cooldown, window fogging, and summer/winter operation.

STARTING AND OPERATING

Starting Procedures

Steps for starting the vehicle, including seat and mirror adjustment.

Normal Starting

Procedure for starting a warm or cold engine without pedal pumping.

If Engine Fails To Start

Troubleshooting steps for a flooded engine.

After Starting

Information on automatic idle speed control as the engine warms up.

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED

How to use the engine block heater for quicker starts in cold weather.

Automatic Transmission

Precautions for shifting automatic transmission gears.

Automatic Transmission with Overdrive

Description of overdrive operation and conditions for automatic shifting.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION — IF EQUIPPED

Overview of manually and electronically shifted transfer cases.

Safe Off-Road Driving — Power Wagon Only

Tips and characteristics for safe off-road driving.

Skid Plates And Underbody Protection

Description of skid plates and underbody protection features.

Ramp Travel Index (RTI)

Explanation of the vehicle's Ramp Travel Index (RTI).

High Mobility Characteristics

Off-road mobility characteristics including angles and grade-ability.

Water Fording Characteristics

Vehicle's ability to cross water bodies safely and precautions.

Simultaneous Brake And Throttle Operation

Technique for off-road driving requiring simultaneous brake and throttle use.

The Basics Of Off-Road Driving

Familiarization with different terrain types and driving techniques.

When To Use Low Range

When to use 4L (Low Range) for improved traction and control.

Driving In Snow, Mud And Sand

Tips for driving in snow, mud, and sand conditions.

Crossing Obstacles (Rocks And Other High Points)

How to approach and cross various off-road obstacles safely.

Winching (Refer to “Winch Operation” for additional information)

Common situations and guidelines for using a vehicle winch.

LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL – IF EQUIPPED

How the limited-slip differential provides additional traction.

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES

Precautions for driving on wet, slushy, or hydroplaning conditions.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

Safety precautions and procedures for driving through water.

DRIVING OFF-ROAD — RAM TRUCK ONLY

Specific driving advice for Ram Trucks in off-road conditions.

WINCH USAGE – IF EQUIPPED (POWER WAGON ONLY)

Information and precautions for using the vehicle's winch.

Tensioning the Wire Rope

Instructions for properly tensioning the winch wire rope before use.

Low Voltage Interrupt

How the winch function is interrupted by low vehicle charging system voltage.

Winch Motor Thermal Protection

How the winch motor's thermal protection device works.

Understanding The Features Of Your Winch

General information about the vehicle's winch components.

Winch Accessories

Necessary accessories for safe winching operations.

Operating Your Winch

Safety warnings and guidelines for operating the winch.

POWER STEERING

Description of the power steering system and its capabilities.

Power Steering Fluid Check

How and when to check the power steering fluid level.

PARKING BRAKE

Information on the foot-operated parking brake.

BRAKE SYSTEM

How the brake system functions, including ABS and power assist.

Four-Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System

How the ABS system works to aid driver control during braking.

ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

Overview of the electronic brake control system's components.

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

How the ABS aids driver control under adverse braking conditions.

Traction Control System (TCS)

How the TCS monitors wheel spin and applies brake pressure.

Brake Assist System (BAS)

How BAS optimizes braking capability during emergency maneuvers.

Hill Start Assist (HSA)

How the HSA system assists in launching a vehicle on an incline.

HSA Activation Criteria

The criteria that must be met for the HSA system to activate.

HSA on Automatic Transmission Vehicles

How HSA functions with automatic transmission vehicles.

Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)

How ERM anticipates and prevents wheel lift during evasive maneuvers.

Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

How ESP enhances directional control and stability.

ESP/TCS Indicator Light

What the ESP/TCS indicator light signifies.

WARNING!

Warnings regarding ESP system capabilities and limitations.

ESP Partial Off

How to enter and use the ESP Partial Off mode for improved traction.

Full Off

How to enter and use the ESP Full Off mode for off-road maneuverability.

TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION

General information and safety guidelines related to tires.

Tire Markings

Explanation of tire sidewall markings including size and safety codes.

Tire Identification Number (TIN)

How to read and interpret the Tire Identification Number (TIN).

Tire Loading and Tire Pressure

Information on the tire and loading placard and proper tire pressure.

Loading

Guidelines for determining maximum vehicle loading conditions.

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit

Procedure to calculate available cargo and luggage load capacity.

Tires — General Information

General information about tire pressure, economy, and stability.

Tire Pressure

Importance of proper tire inflation pressure for safe operation.

Economy

How improper tire inflation affects tread life and fuel consumption.

Ride Comfort and Vehicle Stability

How tire inflation contributes to ride comfort and stability.

Tire Inflation Pressures

Where to find proper cold tire inflation pressure and how it varies.

Tire Pressures for High Speed Operation

Maintaining correct tire inflation for high-speed driving.

Radial Ply Tires

Guidelines for using radial ply tires and avoiding mixing tire types.

Tire Spinning

Precautions against spinning wheels when stuck in slippery conditions.

Tread Wear Indicators

How to use tread wear indicators to determine tire replacement.

Life of Tire

Factors affecting tire service life and replacement recommendations.

Replacement Tires

Recommendations for selecting equivalent replacement tires.

TIRE CHAINS

Guidelines for using tire chains and traction aids.

SNOW TIRES

Recommendations for using snow tires and studded tires.

TIRE ROTATION RECOMMENDATIONS

Benefits and procedure for timely tire rotation.

Dual Rear Wheels

Information on matching tires for dual wheel assemblies.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM (TPMS) — IF EQUIPPED

How the TPMS warns the driver of low tire pressure.

Check TPMS Warnings

What TPMS warning lights and chimes indicate and potential causes.

CAUTION!

Precautions regarding TPMS optimization and replacement equipment.

FUEL REQUIREMENTS

Recommended gasoline octane and quality for the 5.7L engine.

Reformulated Gasoline

Information on reformulated gasoline and its benefits.

Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends

Information on gasoline blends with oxygenates like ethanol.

CAUTION!

Warnings against using gasoline containing methanol or E85 ethanol.

E-85 Usage In Non-Flex Fuel Vehicles

Potential issues when fueling a non-FFV vehicle with E-85 fuel.

MMT In Gasoline

Information on MMT additive in gasoline and its effects.

Materials Added To Fuel

Discussion on detergent additives and other fuel additives.

Fuel System Cautions

Guidelines for maintaining vehicle performance and fuel system integrity.

Carbon Monoxide Warnings

Precautions to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from exhaust gases.

ADDING FUEL

Information on the fuel tank filler tube and using portable fuel containers.

CAUTION!

Potential damage from improper fuel tank filler cap usage.

Loose Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap) Message

What the GAS CAP message indicates and how to resolve it.

VEHICLE LOADING

Information on vehicle loading and certification labels.

Certification Label

Location and information on the vehicle certification label.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

Definition of GVWR and how it relates to vehicle load capacity.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

Definition of GAWR and how load distribution affects it.

Payload

Definition of payload and its calculation.

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit

Procedure to calculate available cargo and luggage load capacity.

TRAILER TOWING

Safety tips and information on vehicle towing limits.

Common Towing Definitions

Definitions of common trailer towing terms.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle.

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)

Definition of Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and how to measure it.

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)

Definition of GCWR and its components.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear axles.

Tongue Weight (TW)

Definition of tongue weight and its importance in trailer loading.

Frontal Area

Maximum height and width of the front of a trailer.

Trailer Sway Control

How the trailer sway control system works to dampen sway.

Weight-Carrying Hitch

Description of weight-carrying hitches for towing small/medium trailers.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

How weight-distributing systems improve ride and control.

Trailer Hitch Classification

Industry standards for maximum trailer weight by hitch class.

Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)

Information on trailer towing weights and website resources.

Trailer and Tongue Weight

Proper loading of trailers for vehicle stability and safety.

Towing Requirements

Guidelines for proper break-in of drivetrain components during towing.

Towing Requirements — Tires

Towing precautions related to tire usage and inflation.

Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes

Recommendations and requirements for trailer brake systems.

Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights & Wiring

Importance of trailer lights and wiring for safety.

The electrical connections are all complete...

Information on electrical connections for trailer harnesses.

Towing Tips

Tips for safe trailer towing, including practice and automatic transmission usage.

Automatic Transmission

Selecting DRIVE or TOW HAUL/OD/OFF ranges for towing.

Tow/Haul — If Equipped

How to use Tow/Haul feature for reduced transmission overheating.

Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped

Guidelines for using speed control in various driving conditions.

Cooling System

Actions to take to reduce potential for engine and transmission overheating.

SNOWPLOW

Information on snowplow prep packages and installation recommendations.

Recreational Towing (Behind Motorhome, Etc.)

Guidelines for recreational towing of vehicles behind motorhomes.

Recreational Towing – Two-Wheel Drive Models

Information that recreational towing of 2WD models is not allowed.

Recreational Towing – Four-Wheel Drive Models

Requirements for recreational towing of 4WD models.

CAUTION!

Failure to follow requirements can cause severe transmission/transfer case damage.

Recreational Towing Procedure — Manual Shift Transfer Case — If Equipped

Procedure to prepare a vehicle with a manual shift transfer case for towing.

CAUTION!

Precautions when preparing manual transfer case for towing.

Recreational Towing Procedure — Electronic Shift Transfer Case — If Equipped

Procedure to prepare a vehicle with an electronic shift transfer case for towing.

CAUTION!

Precautions regarding improper tow bar usage and rear driveshaft disconnection.

Returning to Normal Operation — Manual Shift Transfer Case

Procedure to return the manual shift transfer case to normal operation.

CAUTION!

Potential damage to transmission if shifted incorrectly with transfer case in NEUTRAL.

Returning to Normal Operation — Electronic Shift Transfer Case

Procedure to return the electronic shift transfer case to normal operation.

CAUTION!

Precautions regarding tow bar usage and rear driveshaft disconnection.

EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION PLATE

Location and information on the equipment identification plate.

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

HAZARD WARNING FLASHER

How to operate the hazard warning flasher switch for emergencies.

JACKING INSTRUCTIONS

Safety warnings and instructions for jacking up the vehicle.

Jack Location

Where the jack and jack tools are stored in the vehicle.

Removing The Spare Tire

Steps for removing the spare tire before jacking the vehicle.

Tire Changing Procedure

Detailed instructions and warnings for changing a tire.

Preparations

Steps to prepare the vehicle before changing a tire.

Instructions

Critical warnings and steps for a safe tire change.

Hub Caps/Wheel Covers

How to remove and replace hub caps and wheel skins.

HOISTING

Guidelines for using floor jacks or frame hoists for lifting.

JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES

Step-by-step instructions for jump-starting a vehicle with a discharged battery.

FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE

Techniques for freeing a vehicle stuck in snow, sand, or mud.

EMERGENCY TOW HOOKS — IF EQUIPPED

Information on using emergency tow hooks for off-road recovery.

TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE

Proper towing and lifting equipment and procedures to prevent damage.

4-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Methods for towing 4WD vehicles safely, including transfer case positioning.

2–Wheel Drive Vehicles

Methods for towing 2WD vehicles safely, including speed and distance limits.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Engine Compartment— 5.7L

Diagram and identification of engine compartment components.

Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II)

How the OBD II system monitors vehicle performance and emissions.

Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message

What the GAS CAP message indicates and how to resolve it.

Emissions Inspection And Maintenance Programs

Requirements for passing vehicle emissions inspections.

Replacement Parts

Recommendations for using genuine MOPAR parts for maintenance.

Dealer Service

Information on services provided by authorized dealers.

Maintenance Procedures

Overview of required maintenance services for the vehicle.

Engine Oil

How to check and maintain engine oil level and selection.

Engine Oil Filter

When to replace the engine oil filter and selection guidelines.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter

Proper maintenance intervals for the engine air cleaner filter.

Maintenance-Free Battery

Information on the maintenance-free battery and its features.

Air Conditioner Maintenance

Recommendations for checking and servicing the air conditioner.

Front Prop Shaft Lubrication — 2500/3500 (4X4) Models

Lubrication instructions for the front prop shaft.

Body Lubrication

Lubrication points for locks, hinges, and other body components.

Windshield Wiper Blades

How to clean and maintain windshield wiper blades.

Adding Washer Fluid

How to check and refill the washer fluid reservoir.

Exhaust System

Best protection against carbon monoxide entry via exhaust system.

Cooling System

Safety warnings and procedures for handling hot engine coolant.

Engine Coolant Checks

How to check engine coolant level and protection, and when to flush/refill.

Cooling System — Drain, Flush and Refill

Procedure for draining, flushing, and refilling the cooling system.

Selection Of Coolant

Using the manufacturer's recommended engine coolant (antifreeze).

Brake System

How the brake system functions, including master cylinder and fluid level checks.

Master Cylinder — Brake Fluid Level Check

How to check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir.

Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle Fluid Level

Periodic fluid level checks for rear axles and front driving axles.

Transfer Case

Maintenance procedures for the transfer case, including fluid checks.

Automatic Transmission

Information on automatic transmission fluid and maintenance.

Fluid Level Check – 545RFE

How to check the fluid level of the 545RFE automatic transmission.

Appearance Care And Protection from Corrosion

Recommendations for maintaining vehicle body and paint against corrosion.

Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion

Causes of corrosion and maintenance to prevent it.

What Causes Corrosion?

Common causes of vehicle corrosion.

Washing

How to properly wash the vehicle to avoid paint damage.

Special Care

Specific care instructions for driving in adverse conditions or after damage.

Wheel and Wheel Trim Care

How to clean and maintain wheels and wheel trim.

Stain Repel Fabric Cleaning Procedure — If Equipped

How to clean Stain Repel Seat Fabric.

Interior Care

Recommendations for cleaning fabric, vinyl, and leather upholstery.

Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses

How to clean instrument cluster lenses without scratching.

Seat Belt Maintenance

How to maintain seat belts and when to replace them.

FUSES

Information about the Integrated Power Module containing fuses.

Integrated Power Module

Location and description of the integrated power module.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

Emissions Control System Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance for emissions control systems.

Maintenance Schedule

Overview of required maintenance services and intervals.

Required Maintenance Intervals

Detailed list of maintenance intervals based on mileage and time.

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE

SUGGESTIONS FOR OBTAINING SERVICE FOR YOUR VEHICLE

Tips for getting service, including preparing for appointments and making requests.

Prepare For The Appointment

Advice on preparing for service appointments, including warranty papers.

Prepare A List

How to make a list of vehicle problems or desired work.

Be Reasonable With Requests

Tips for discussing service needs and priorities with the service advisor.

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE

Manufacturer's commitment to customer satisfaction and dealer service.

Chrysler LLC Customer Center

Contact information for Chrysler LLC customer support.

Chrysler Canada Inc. Customer Center

Contact information for Chrysler Canada customer support.

In Mexico contact

Contact information for customer assistance in Mexico.

Customer Assistance For The Hearing Or Speech Impaired (TDD/TTY)

Assistance options for hearing or speech impaired customers.

Service Contract

Information about service contracts and manufacturer's warranty.

Warranty Information (U.S. Vehicles Only)

Reference to the warranty information booklet for U.S. vehicles.

MOPAR Parts

Availability of Mopar fluids, lubricants, parts, and accessories.

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

How to report vehicle safety defects to NHTSA and the manufacturer.

In The 50 United States And Washington, D.C.

Procedure for reporting safety defects in the United States.

In Canada

Procedure for reporting safety defects to Transport Canada.

PUBLICATION ORDER FORMS

How to order additional manuals and publications.

Service Manuals

Information provided in comprehensive service manuals.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADES

Explanation of DOT uniform tire quality grading categories.

Treadwear

Explanation of the tire treadwear grade rating.

Traction Grades

Explanation of tire traction grades and their meaning.

Temperature Grades

Explanation of tire temperature grades and their resistance to heat.

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