Dodge 2004 Ram 2500 User manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1
INTRODUCTION .............................................................3
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ..............................9
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ..............................71
4
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL ...................................137
5
STARTING AND OPERATING .................................................199
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES ..............................................295
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ...............................................317
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES ..................................................383
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE .........................................401
10
INDEX ....................................................................411
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
mIntroduction ...........................4
mA Message From DaimlerChrysler Corporation . . . 4
mHow To Use This Manual ..................5
mWarnings And Cautions ...................5
mVan Conversions/Campers .................6
mVehicle Identification Number ...............6
mVehicle Modifications / Alterations ...........7
1

INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared with the assistance of
service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is
supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and
various customer oriented documents. You are urged 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 you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.
When it comes to service, remember that your dealer
knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained techni-
cians and genuine Mopartparts, and is interested in
your satisfaction.
WARNING!
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition,
certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain prod-
ucts of component wear contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
A MESSAGE FROM DAIMLERCHRYSLER
CORPORATION
DaimlerChrysler Corporation and Cummins welcome
you as a new Dodge Ram Cummins Turbo Diesel-
powered truck owner.
4 INTRODUCTION

Almost 100% of the heavy duty trucks in the United
States are diesel powered because of the fuel economy,
rugged durability, and high torque which permits pulling
heavy loads. Cummins engines power well over half of
these trucks. Now this same technology and proven
performance is yours in your new Dodge Ram truck
equipped with the Cummins 5.9 liter, Turbocharged,
Charge Air Cooled, Diesel engine.
Your diesel truck will sound, feel, drive, and operate
differently from a gasoline-powered truck. It is important
that you read and understand this manual. You may find
that some of the starting, operating, and maintenance
procedures are different. However, they are simple to
follow and careful adherence to them will ensure that
you take full advantage of the features of this engine.
Thank you for choosing the Dodge Ram truck with
Cummins Turbo Diesel power.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Consult the table of contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.
The detailed index, at the rear of this manual, contains a
complete listing of all subjects.
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
This manual contains WARNINGS against operating
procedures which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against procedures
which 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.
INTRODUCTION 5
1

VAN CONVERSIONS/CAMPERS
The Manufacturer’s Warranty does not apply to body
modifications or special equipment installed by van
conversion/camper manufacturers/ body builders. Such
equipment includes video monitors, VCRs, heaters,
stoves, refrigerators, etc. For warranty coverage and
service on these items, contact the applicable manufac-
turer.
Operating instructions for the special equipment in-
stalled by the conversion/camper manufacturer should
also be supplied with your vehicle. If these instructions
are missing, please contact your selling dealer for assis-
tance in obtaining replacement documents from the
applicable manufacturer.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is found on a
stamped plate 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.
6 INTRODUCTION

NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.
VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS
WARNING!
Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle
could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety
and may lead to an accident resulting in serious
injury or death.
INTRODUCTION 7
1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
mA Word About Your Keys ..................11
▫Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................11
▫Sentry Key — If Equipped ................11
mIgnition And Steering Lock .................14
▫Manual Transmissions ...................14
▫Automatic Transmissions .................15
mDoor Key .............................16
mDoor Locks ............................16
▫Manual Locks .........................16
▫Power Door Locks — If Equipped ..........17
▫Child Protection Door Lock ...............21
mRemote Keyless Entry — If Equipped .........22
▫To Unlock The Doors ...................23
▫To Lock The Doors .....................24
▫Using The Panic Alarm ..................25
▫Programming Additional Transmitters ........26
▫General Information ....................27
▫Transmitter Battery Service ...............28
2

mSecurity Alarm System — If Equipped .........29
▫Rearming Of The System .................29
▫To Set The Alarm ......................29
▫To Disarm The System ...................30
mWindows .............................31
▫Power Windows—If Equipped .............31
▫Sliding Rear Window—If Equipped .........32
▫Wind Buffeting ........................33
mOccupant Restraints ......................33
▫Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................34
▫Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....41
▫Automatic Locking Mode (If Equipped) ......41
▫Center Lap Belts .......................42
▫Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................42
▫Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System
(BeltAlert) ...........................43
▫Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............44
▫Seat Belt Extender ......................44
▫Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS)—Airbag ............45
▫Child Restraint ........................55
mNew Engine Break-In .....................67
mSafety Tips ............................68
▫Transporting Passengers .................68
▫Lock Your Vehicle ......................69
▫Exhaust Gas ..........................69
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ..............................70
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle ..............................70
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
The double sided keys may be inserted into the locks
with either side up. The keys for your new vehicle are
enclosed in a plastic bag with a bar code label affixed to
the front. The bar code can be used to order duplicate
keys from your dealer or a locksmith. If you received
your keys without the bag, ask your dealer to give you
the number.
Key-In-Ignition Reminder
If you open the driver’s door when the key is in the
ignition switch, a chime will sound to remind you to
remove the key.
CAUTION!
An unlocked vehicle is an invitation to thieves.
Always remove the key from the ignition and lock
all the doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
SENTRY KEY — IF EQUIPPED
With this system, an electronically coded ignition key
sends a signal to the vehicle electronics. If the electronics
recognizes the signal, the vehicle will start and continue
to run. If the system does not recognize the signal the
vehicle will start and run for a maximum of 2 seconds
after the initial key ON. After six unsuccessful attempts
at starting, the system will shut down until the correct
key is used.
NOTE: The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not
compatible with remote starting systems. Use of these
systems may result in vehicle starting problems and a
loss of security protection. Additional Sentry Keys or
Mobil Speed-pass™ devices held against or immediately
adjacent to the ignition key when starting the engine may
cause vehicle starting problems. If a problem occurs,
remove the Sentry Key from the key-ring and attempt to
start the vehicle again. Pagers, cell phones, walkman, etc.
will have no effect on this system.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
2

The 9Security Light9, located in the instrument cluster,
will illuminate for about 2 seconds when the ignition
switch is first turned to the ON position. If the vehicle
electronics do not receive a valid signal from the ignition
key, the 9Security Light9will flash continuously to signal
that the vehicle has been immobilized. If the 9Security
Light9remains on during vehicle operation, it indicates a
fault in the system electronics. If this option was ordered,
all of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been
programmed to the vehicle electronics.
Replacement Keys
NOTE: Only keys that have been programmed to the
vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once
a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it cannot
be programmed to any other vehicle.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four digit PIN number. This number is required
for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may
be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the
Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure
consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle
electronics. A blank key is one which has never been
programmed and needs to be cut.
NOTE: When having the Sentry Key System serviced,
bring all vehicle keys to the dealer.
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Customer Key Programming
You can program new keys to the system if you have two
valid keys by doing the following:
1. Insert the first valid key into the ignition and turn the
ignition to the ON position for at least 3 seconds but no
longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition back to the OFF
position and remove the first key.
2. Insert the second valid key and switch the ignition to
the ON position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds the
9Security Light9will begin to flash. Turn the ignition back
to the OFF position and remove the second key.
3. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition and switch
the ignition to the ON position within 60 seconds of
having removed the second key. After 10 seconds the
9Security Light9will stop flashing, then turn on for 3
seconds; then turn off.
The new Sentry Key has been programmed. Repeat this
process to program up to an additional 6 keys. A maxi-
mum of 8 keys can be programmed to the system,
including the original keys provided with the vehicle.
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.
NOTE: Changes or modifications not expressly ap-
proved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
2

IGNITION AND STEERING LOCK
Manual Transmissions
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,
depress and hold the release button located between the
ignition switch and the instrument panel. Turn the igni-
tion key to LOCK and remove the key.
Manual Transmissions
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Automatic Transmissions
In the LOCK position, the steering and ignition systems
are locked to provide antitheft protection for your ve-
hicle. 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. The key can be inserted or withdrawn only in the
LOCK position. Push in on the key in the ignition lock
cylinder to rotate to the LOCK position.
NOTE: The steering wheel will the lock when the key is
removed, and the steering wheel is turned around 115
degrees from center clockwise and around 65 degrees
counter-clockwise. NOTE: On vehicles equipped with an automatic trans-
mission, the key cannot be turned to LOCK until the
selector is in the PARK position. Do not attempt to pull
the shift lever out of PARK after the key is in the LOCK
position.
Automatic Transmissions
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
2

DOOR KEY
The same key used to start the vehicle is also used to
unlock the doors. To unlock the vehicle doors, insert the
key into the lock and turn.
To lock the doors, insert the key and turn.
DOOR LOCKS
Manual Locks
Front and Rear doors may be locked, by moving the lock
plunger up or down.
All doors may be opened with the inside door handle
without lifting the lock plunger. Doors locked before
closing will remain locked when closed.
The ignition key will unlock all the locks on your vehicle.
WARNING!
For personal security and safety in the event of an
accident, lock the vehicle doors when you drive as
well as when you park and leave the vehicle.
WARNING!
When leaving the vehicle always remove the key
from the ignition lock, and lock your vehicle. Do not
leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with
access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of
vehicle equipment may cause severe personal inju-
ries and death.
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Power Door Locks — If Equipped
NOTE: Vehicles equipped with remote keyless entry do
not have a passenger side door lock cylinder.
Vehicles equipped with power door locks can be locked
or unlocked from inside by either the use of the door lock
switches located on the front doors or by pressing the
LOCK or UNLOCK buttons on the Remote Keyless Entry
key fob (if equipped).
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
2

As a safety feature the doors will not lock when using the
door lock switches during the following condition:
1. The driver’s door is open while the key is in the
ignition.
Central Locking — If Equipped
Vehicles with security will have a feature called 9Central
Locking9. When the key is placed in the door cylinder
and turned to the 9Unlock9position, the security will be
disarmed, the illuminated entry will be turned on and
that door will be mechanically unlocked. If the key is
once again turned to the unlock position within 5 seconds
of the first unlock, the remaining doors will unlock. If the
key is turned to the 9Lock9position while all doors are
closed, illuminated entry will be canceled, security will
begin arming, and all doors will lock.
Automatic Door Locks
If this feature is enabled, your door locks will lock
automatically when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 15 mph.
This feature is enabled when your vehicle is shipped
from the assembly plant and can be disabled by using the
following procedure:
1. Enter your vehicle and close all doors.
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

2. Fasten your seat belt (Fastening the seat belt will
cancel any chiming that may confuse you during this
programming procedure).
3. Place the key into the ignition.
4. Within 10 seconds cycle the key from the OFF position
to the ON position four times; ending in the ON position
(Do not start the engine ).
5. Within 30 seconds, press the driver’s door lock switch
in the LOCK direction.
6. A single chime will be heard to indicate the feature has
been disabled.
7. To reactivate this feature, repeat the above steps.
8. If a chime is not heard, program mode was canceled
before the feature could be disabled. If necessary, repeat
the above procedure.
Auto Unlock Feature
This feature unlocks all the doors of the vehicle when the
driver’s door is opened first. The following conditions
must be met:
• The driver’s door must be opened first.
• The Automatic Door Lock feature must be enabled.
• The doors of the vehicle must be locked automatically
by the Automatic Door Lock feature.
• The vehicle is in P (Park) and the ignition switch is in
the Off position.
This feature will not operate if any of the conditions
above are not met or following has occurred:
• Any manual operation of a door lock switch has
occurred.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
2

Auto Unlock Feature Programming
This feature is enabled when your vehicle is shipped
from the assembly plant and can be disabled by using the
following procedure:
Customer Programming sequence to disable or enable:
1. Enter your vehicle and close all doors.
2. Fasten your seat belt (fastening the seat belt will cancel
any chiming that may be confusing during this program-
ming procedure).
3. Insert the key into the ignition.
4. Within 4 seconds, cycle the key from the OFF position
to the ON position four times ending in the ON 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.
20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE