(refer to “Four-Wheel Drive Operation — If
Equipped” in this section for further details). This
range should be limited to extreme situations
such as deep snow, mud, or sand where addi-
tional low speed pulling power is needed. Ve-
hicle speeds in excess of 25 mph (40 km/h)
should be avoided when in 4WD LOW range.
Driving Through Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving
through water, there are a number of precau-
tions that must be considered before entering
the water:
CAUTION!
When driving through water, do not exceed
5 mph (8 km/h). Always check water depth
before entering as a precaution, and check
all fluids afterward. Driving through water
may cause damage that may not be covered
by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to
ensure safety and prevent damage to your
vehicle. If you must drive through water, try to
determine the depth and the bottom condition
(and location of any obstacles) prior to entering.
Proceed with caution and maintain a steady
controlled speed less than 5 mph (8 km/h) in
deep water to minimize wave effects.
Flowing Water
If the water is swift flowing and rising (as in
storm run-off) avoid crossing until the water level
recedes and/or the flow rate is reduced. If you
must cross flowing-water, avoid depths in ex-
cess of 9 inches (22 cm). The flowing water can
erode the streambed causing your vehicle to
sink into deeper water. Determine exit point(s)
that are downstream of your entry point to allow
for drifting.
Standing Water
Avoid driving in standing water deeper than
16 inches (40.5 cm), and reduce speed appro-
priately to minimize wave effects. Maximum
speed in 16 inches (40.5 cm) of water is less
than 5 mph (8 km/h).
(Trailhawk only): Avoid driving in standing water
deeper than 19 inches (48 cm), and reduce
speed appropriately to minimize wave effects.
Maximum speed in 19 inches (48 cm) of water is
less than 5 mph (8 km/h).
Maintenance
After driving through deep water, inspect your
vehicle fluids and lubricants (engine, transmis-
sion, Power Transfer Unit, and Rear Drive Mod-
ule) to assure they have not been contaminated.
Contaminated fluids and lubricants (milky,
foamy in appearance) should be flushed/
changed as soon as possible to prevent compo-
nent damage.
Driving In Snow, Mud And Sand
In heavy snow, when pulling a load, or for
additional control at slower speeds, shift the
transmission to a low gear and shift the 4WD
system to the appropriate terrain mode, using
4WD LOW if necessary. Refer to “Four-Wheel
Drive Operation” in “Starting And Operating” for
further information. Do not shift to a lower gear
than necessary to maintain headway. Over-
revving the engine can spin the wheels and
traction will be lost.
Avoid abrupt downshifts on icy or slippery roads
because engine braking may cause skidding
and loss of control.
Hill Climbing
NOTE:
Before attempting to climb a hill, determine the
conditions at the crest and/or on the other side.
Before climbing a steep hill, shift the transmis-
sion to a lower gear and shift the 4WD System
to 4WD LOW. Use first gear and 4WD LOW for
very steep hills.
NOTE:
Brakes should be applied at increased slippage,
but before coming to a stop to avoid digging into
the loose surface and rendering the operator of
the vehicle stuck/immobile.
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