Jeep 2008 Grand Cherokee User manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1
INTRODUCTION .............................................................3
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ..............................11
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ...............................71
4
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL ................................... 181
5
STARTING AND OPERATING .................................................271
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES ...............................................369
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ...............................................383
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES ..................................................443
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE ..........................................459
10
INDEX ....................................................................469
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
mIntroduction ...........................4
mRollover Warning ........................5
mHow To Use This Manual ..................6
mWarnings And Cautions ...................8
mVehicle Identification Number ...............8
mVehicle Modifications/Alterations ............9
1

INTRODUCTION
This is a specialized utility vehicle designed for both
on-road and off-road use. It can go places and perform
tasks for which conventional two-wheel drive vehicles
were not intended. However, on-road ride and handling
will have a different feel from what drivers experience
with other vehicles, so take time to become familiar with
your vehicle.
The two-wheel drive utility vehicle was designed for
on-road use only. It is not intended for off-road driving
or use in other severe conditions suited for a four-wheel
drive vehicle.
Before you start to drive this vehicle, read this manual. Be
sure you are familiar with all vehicle controls, particu-
larly those used for braking, steering and transmission
and transfer case shifting. Learn how your vehicle
handles on different road surfaces. Your driving skills
will improve with experience. When driving off-road or
working the vehicle, don’t overload it or expect it to
overcome the laws of nature. Always observe federal,
state, provincial, and local laws wherever you drive.
As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this
vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an
accident. Be sure to read “On-Road/Off-Road Driving
Tips” in Section 5 of this manual.
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.
4 INTRODUCTION

NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.
When it comes to service, remember that your authorized
dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained
technicians and genuine Mopartparts, and is interested
in your satisfaction.
ROLLOVER WARNING
Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate
than other types of vehicles. This vehicle has a higher
ground clearance, and a higher center of gravity than
many passenger cars. It is capable of performing better in
a wide variety of off-road applications. Driven in an
unsafe manner, all vehicles can be caused to go out of
control. Because of the higher center of gravity, if this
vehicle is out of control it may rollover when some other
vehicles may not.
Do not attempt sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers or other
unsafe driving actions that can cause loss of vehicle
control. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result
in an accident, rollover of the vehicle, and severe or fatal
injury. Drive carefully.
Rollover Warning Label
INTRODUCTION 5
1

Failure to use driver and passenger seat belts provided
is a major cause of severe or fatal injury. In fact, the U.S.
government notes that the universal use of existing seat
belts could cut the highway death toll by 10,000 or more
each year, and could reduce disabling injuries by 2
million annually. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person
is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing
a seat belt. Always buckle up.
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.
Consult the following table for a description of the
symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout
this owner manual:
6 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION 7
1

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.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is found on a
label 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 equip-
ment.
NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN label.
8 INTRODUCTION

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 9
1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
mA Word About Your Keys ..................14
▫Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) .............14
▫FOB With Integrated Key (FOBIK) ..........15
▫Ignition Key Removal ...................16
▫Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................17
mSentry Key ............................17
▫Replacement Keys ......................18
▫Customer Key (FOB) Programming ..........19
▫General Information ....................20
mSecurity Alarm System — If Equipped .........20
▫To Set The Alarm ......................20
▫To Disarm The System ...................21
mIlluminated Entry ........................21
mRemote Keyless Entry .....................21
▫To Unlock The Doors ...................22
▫To Lock The Doors .....................23
▫To Release The Liftgate Flipper Glass ........24
▫Using The Panic Alarm ..................24
2

▫Programming Additional Transmitters ........25
▫Transmitter Battery Service ...............25
▫General Information ....................26
mRemote Starting System — If Equipped ........26
mDoor Locks ............................28
▫Manual Door Locks .....................28
▫Power Door Locks .....................28
▫Child Protection Door Lock ...............30
mWindows .............................31
▫Power Windows .......................31
▫Wind Buffeting ........................33
mLiftgate ...............................34
▫Liftgate Flipper Glass ...................35
mOccupant Restraints ......................36
▫Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................37
▫Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions .....38
▫Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....41
▫Automatic Locking Mode — If Equipped .....42
▫Energy Management Feature ..............42
▫Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................43
▫Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System
(BeltAlert) ...........................43
▫Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............45
▫Seat Belt Extender ......................45
▫Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint Systems (SRS) ..................46
▫Child Restraint ........................58
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

mEngine Break-In Recommendations ...........68
mSafety Tips ............................69
▫Exhaust Gas ..........................69
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ..............................69
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle ..............................70
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
2

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
Your vehicle uses a keyless ignition system. This system
consists of a Fob with Integrated Key and a Wireless
Ignition Node (WIN) with integral ignition switch. You
can insert the double-sided integrated key into the igni-
tion switch with either side up.
Wireless Ignition Node (WIN)
The Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) operates similar to an
ignition switch. It has four operating positions, three of
which are detented and one spring-loaded. The detented
positions are LOCK, ACC, and ON. The START position
is a spring-loaded momentary contact position. When
released from the START position, the switch automati-
cally returns to the detented ON position.
Wireless Ignition Node (WIN)
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Fob with Integrated Key (FOBIK)
The Fob with Integrated Key operates the ignition switch.
It also contains the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) trans-
mitter and a valet key, which stores in the rear of the Fob.
The valet key allows for entry into the vehicle should the
battery in the vehicle or the Fob go dead. You can keep
the valet key with you when valet parking.
To remove the valet key from the Fob, slide the mechani-
cal latch at the top of the Fob sideways with your thumb
and then pull the key out of the Fob with your other
hand.
NOTE: You can insert the double-sided valet key into
the lock cylinders with either side up.
3 Button FOBIK
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
2

Ignition Key Removal
Place the selector lever in “P” (Park). Turn the key to the
LOCK position, and remove the key.
NOTE:
• If you try to remove the key before you place the
selector lever in “P” (Park), it may become trapped
temporarily in the ignition switch. If this occurs, rotate
the key to the right slightly, then remove the key as
described. If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap
the key in the ignition switch 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.
• For vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC), the power window
switches, radio, power sunroof (if equipped), and
power outlets will remain active for up to 60 minutes
after the ignition switch is turned to the LOCK posi-
tion. Opening either front door will cancel this feature.
The time for this feature is programmable. For details,
refer to “Delay Power Off to Accessories Until Exit,”
under “Personal Settings (Customer Programmable
Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC)” in Section 4 of this manual.
WARNING!
Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving
children in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be seri-
ously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the keys in the
ignition. A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always
remove key from the ignition and lock all doors
when leaving the vehicle unattended.
Key-In-Ignition Reminder
If you open the driver’s door and the key is in the
ignition, a chime will sound to remind you to remove the
key.
NOTE: The Key-In-Ignition reminder only sounds
when the ignition key is placed in the LOCK or ACC
position.
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho-
rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The
system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation
is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked
or unlocked.
The system uses the factory-mated Fob with Integrated
Key and Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) to prevent unau-
thorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only Fobs that are
programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and
operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in
two (2) seconds if someone uses an invalid Fob to start
the engine.
After turning the ignition switch to the ON position, the
Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will turn on for
three (3) 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
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
2

flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used
an invalid Fob to start the engine. Either of these condi-
tions will result in the engine being shut off after two (2)
seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light turns on
during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for
longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in
the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle ser-
viced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
• The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible
with aftermarket remote starting systems. Use of these
systems may result in vehicle starting problems and
loss of security protection.
• Exxon/Mobil Speed Pass,™ additional Fobs, or any
other transponder-equipped components on the same
key chain will not cause a fault unless the additional
part is physically held against the Fob being used to
start the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF
electronics will not cause interference with this system.
All of the Fobs provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
Replacement Keys
NOTE: Only Fobs that are programmed to the vehicle
electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle.
Once a Fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be
programmed to any other vehicle.
CAUTION!
Always remove Sentry Keys from the vehicle and
lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four-digit PIN number. Keep the PIN in a secure
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

location. This number is required for dealer replacement
of Fobs. Duplication of Fobs may be performed at an
authorized dealer or by using the Customer Key Pro-
gramming procedure. This procedure consists of pro-
gramming a blank Fob to the vehicle electronics. A blank
Fob is one, which has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer
System serviced, bring all vehicle Fobs with you to the
dealer.
Customer Key (Fob) Programming
If you have two valid sentry keys, you can program new
sentry keys to the system by performing the following
procedure:
1. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON for at least 3 seconds but no
longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition switch OFF and
remove the first key.
2. Insert the second valid key and turn the ignition
switch ON within 15 seconds. After ten seconds, a chime
will sound and the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator
Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch OFF
and remove the second key.
3. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON within 60 seconds. After 10
seconds, a single chime will sound and the Vehicle
Security Alarm Indicator Light will stop flashing, turn on
again for 3 seconds, and then turn off.
The new Sentry Key is programmed. The Keyless Entry
Transmitter will also be programmed during this pro-
cedure.
Repeat this procedure to program up to 8 keys. If you do
not have a programmed sentry key, contact your dealer
for details.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
2

NOTE: If a programmed key is lost, see your dealer to
have all remaining keys erased from the systems
memory. This will prevent the lost key from starting your
vehicle. The remaining keys must then be repro-
grammed. All vehicle keys must be taken to the dealer at
the time of service to be reprogrammed.
General Information
The Sentry Key system complies with FCC rules part 15
and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is
subject to the following conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference that may be
received, including interference that may cause undes-
ired operation.
SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
This system monitors the vehicle doors, liftgate, liftgate
flipper glass, and ignition for unauthorized operation
and movement inside of the vehicle. When the alarm is
activated, the system provides both audible and visual
signals. The horn will sound repeatedly for three minutes
and the headlights and taillights will flash for an addi-
tional 15 minutes.
To Set the Alarm
The alarm will set when you use the remote keyless entry
transmitter to lock the doors and liftgate or when you use
the power door lock switch while the door is open. After
all the doors are locked and closed, a red light (located in
the instrument cluster) will flash rapidly for about 16
seconds to signal that the system is arming. During this
16 second pre-arm period, opening any door or the
liftgate will cancel the arming. If the system successfully
arms, the red light will flash at a slower rate to indicate
the alarm is set. A manual lock of the doors, either with
20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE