Dodge Ram 2500 (2016 year). Manual

within 10 seconds, cycle the ignition to the OFF position,
wait five seconds, then repeat the “Normal Starting”
procedure.

Automatic Transmission

Start the engine with the transmission in PARK position.
Apply the brake before shifting into any driving range.

NOTE:

• This vehicle is equipped with a transmission shift

interlocking system. The brake pedal must be pressed
to shift out of PARK.

• If equipped with an 8 speed transmission starting the

vehicle in NEUTRAL is not possible unless the Manual
Park Release has been activated. For the Manual Park
Release operation refer to Manual Park Release in
“What To Do In Emergencies”.

Tip Start Feature

Do not

press the accelerator. Cycle the ignition switch

briefly to the START position and release it. The starter
motor will continue to run but will automatically disen-
gage when the engine is running.

Keyless Enter-N-Go — Ignition

This feature allows the driver to oper-
ate the ignition switch with the push
of a button, as long as the Remote
Start/Keyless Enter-N-Go Key Fob is
in the passenger compartment.

476

STARTING AND OPERATING

Normal Starting

To Turn On The Engine Using The ENGINE
START/STOP Button

1. The transmission must be in PARK or NEUTRAL.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal while pushing the

ENGINE START/STOP button once.

3. The system takes over and attempts to start the

vehicle. If the vehicle fails to start, the starter will
disengage automatically after 10 seconds.

4. If you wish to stop the cranking of the engine prior to

the engine starting, push the button again.

NOTE:

Normal starting of either a cold or a warm engine

is obtained without pumping or pressing the accelerator
pedal.

To Turn Off The Engine Using ENGINE
START/STOP Button

1. Place the gear selector in PARK, then push and release

the ENGINE START/STOP button.

2. The ignition switch will return to the OFF position.

3. If the gear selector is not in PARK, the ENGINE

START/STOP button must be held for two seconds or
three short pushes in a row with the vehicle speed
above 5 mph (8 km/h) before the engine will shut off.
The ignition switch position will remain in the ACC
position until the gear selector is in PARK and the
button is pushed twice to the OFF position. If the gear
selector is not in PARK and the ENGINE START/
STOP button is pushed once, the EVIC/DID will
display a “Vehicle Not In Park” message and the
engine will remain running. Never leave a vehicle out
of the PARK position, or it could roll.

STARTING AND OPERATING

477

NOTE:

If the ignition switch is left in the ACC or RUN

(engine not running) position and the transmission is in
PARK, the system will automatically time out after 30
minutes of inactivity and the ignition will switch to the
OFF position.

ENGINE START/STOP Button Functions — With
Driver’s Foot OFF The Brake Pedal (In PARK Or
NEUTRAL Position)

The ENGINE START/STOP button operates similar to an
ignition switch. It has three positions, OFF, ACC, RUN.
To change the ignition switch positions without starting
the vehicle and use the accessories follow these steps:

1. Starting with the ignition in the OFF position:

2. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button once to

change the ignition to the ACC position.

3. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button a second time

to change the ignition to the RUN position.

4. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button a third time to

return the ignition to the OFF position.

Extreme Cold Weather (Below –22°F Or −30°C)

To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of
an externally powered electric engine block heater (avail-
able from your authorized dealer) is recommended.

If Engine Fails To Start

If the engine fails to start after you have followed the
“Normal Starting” procedure, it may be flooded. Push
the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold it
there while the engine is cranking. This should clear any
excess fuel in case the engine is flooded.

The starter motor will engage automatically, run for 10
seconds, and then disengage. Once this occurs, release
the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal, wait 10 to 15
seconds, then repeat the “Normal Starting” procedure.

478

STARTING AND OPERATING

CAUTION!

To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank the
engine for more than 10 seconds at a time. Wait 10 to
15 seconds before trying again.

WARNING!

• Never pour fuel or other flammable liquids into

the throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to
start the vehicle. This could result in a flash fire
causing serious personal injury.

• Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it

started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans-
mission cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel
could enter the catalytic converter and once the
engine has started, ignite and damage the converter
and vehicle.

(Continued)

WARNING! (Continued)

• If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster

cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster
battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type
of start can be dangerous if done improperly. Refer
to “Jump-Starting” in “What To Do In Emergen-
cies” for further information.

If the engine has been flooded, it may start to run, but not
have enough power to continue running when the igni-
tion button/key is released. If this occurs, continue
cranking with the accelerator pedal pushed all the way to
the floor. Release the accelerator pedal and the ignition
button/key once the engine is running smoothly.

If the engine shows no sign of starting after a 10 second
period of engine cranking with the accelerator pedal held
to the floor, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the
“Normal Starting” procedure.

STARTING AND OPERATING

479

After Starting

The idle speed is controlled automatically, and it will
decrease as the engine warms up.

STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

The Stop/Start function is developed to save fuel and
reduce emissions. The system will stop the engine auto-
matically during a vehicle stop if the required conditions
are met. Releasing the brake pedal will automatically
restart the vehicle.

Automatic Mode

The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every normal
customer engine start. It will remain in STOP/START
NOT READY until you drive forward with a vehicle
speed greater than 5 mph (8 km/h). At that time, the
system will go into STOP/START READY and if all other
conditions are met, can go into an STOP/START AUTO
STOP ACTIVE “Autostop” mode.

To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following Must
Occur:

1. The system must be in STOP/START READY state. A

STOP/START READY message will be displayed in
the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)/
Driver Information Display (DID) within the Stop/
Start section. Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC)” or “Driver Information Display (DID)”
in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.

2. The vehicle must be completely stopped.

3. The transmission Gear Selector must be in DRIVE and

the brake pedal depressed.

The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to
the zero position and the stop/start telltale will illumi-
nate indicating you are in an Autostop. While in an

480

STARTING AND OPERATING

Autostop, the Climate Controls system may automati-
cally adjust airflow to maintain cabin comfort. Customer
settings will be maintained upon return to an engine
running condition.

Possible Reasons The Engine Does Not Autostop

Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions to see if they are fulfilled.
In following situations, the engine will not stop:

• Driver’s seat belt is not buckled.
• Driver’s door is not closed.
• Outside temperature is less than 1°F (–17°C) or greater

than 104°F (40°C).

• Battery temperature too warm or cold.
• The vehicle is on a steep grade.

• Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an accept-

able cabin temperature has not been achieved.

• HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower

speed.

• Engine has not reached normal operating temperature.
• Battery discharged.
• The transmission is not in DRIVE.
• Hood is open.
• Vehicle is in 4LO transfer case mode.
Other factors which can inhibit AutoStop include: fuel
level, accelerator pedal input, engine temp too high and
steering angle.

It may be possible for the vehicle to be driven several
times without the STOP/START system going into a
STOP/START READY state under more extreme condi-
tions of the items listed above.

STARTING AND OPERATING

481

To Start The Engine While In Autostop Mode

While in DRIVE, the engine will start when the brake
pedal is released or the throttle pedal is depressed. The
transmission will automatically reengage upon engine
restart. During this transition, the brakes will hold the
vehicle to avoid undesired vehicle movement.

Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start Auto-
matically While In Autostop Mode

The engine will start automatically when:

• The transmission selector is moved from DRIVE to

REVERSE or NEUTRAL

• To maintain cabin temperature near the HVAC settings
• HVAC is set to full defrost mode
• Autostop time exceeds 5 minutes
• Battery voltage drops too low

• Low brake vacuum (e.g. after several brake pedal

applications)

• STOP/START OFF switch is pushed
• 4WD system is put into 4LO mode
• The emissions system requires it
• A STOP/START system error occurs
Conditions That Force An Automatic Shift To Park
While In Autostop Mode

The engine will not start automatically and the transmis-
sion will be placed in PARK if:

• The driver door is open and brake pedal released
• The driver door is open and the driver seat belt is

unbuckled

• The engine hood has been opened
• A STOP/START system error occurs

482

STARTING AND OPERATING

The engine may then be restarted by moving the trans-
mission shift selector out of PARK (e.g. to DRIVE) or, in
some cases, only by a KEY START. The Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC)/Driver Information Display
(DID) will display a SHIFT OUT OF PARK message, or a
STOP/START KEY START REQUIRED message, to indi-
cate which action is required.

Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) or
Driver Information Display (DID)” in “Understanding
Your Instrument Panel” for further information.

To Manually Turn Off The Stop Start System

1. Push the STOP/START Off switch (located on the

switch bank). The light on the switch will illuminate.

2. The STOP/START OFF message will appear in Elec-

tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)/Driver In-
formation Display (DID). Refer to “Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC)” or “Driver Information
Display (DID)” in “Understanding Your Instrument
Panel” for further information.

STOP/START OFF Switch

STARTING AND OPERATING

483

3. At the next vehicle stop (after turning off the STOP/

START system) the engine will not be stopped.

4. If the STOP/START system is manually turned off, the

engine can only be started and stopped by cycling the
ignition switch.

5. The STOP/START system will reset itself back to an

ON condition every time the key is turned off and
back on.

To Manually Turn On The Stop Start System

1. Push the STOP/START Off switch (located on the

switch bank).

2. The light on the switch will turn off.

System Malfunction

If there is a malfunction in the STOP/START system, the
system will not shut down the engine. A “SERVICE
STOP/START SYSTEM” message will appear in the

Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)/Driver In-
formation Display (DID). Refer to “Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC)” or “Driver Information Dis-
play (DID)” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel”
for further information.

The system will need to be checked by your authorized
dealer.

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED

The engine block heater warms the engine, and permits
quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the cord to a
standard 110-115 Volt AC electrical outlet with a
grounded, three-wire extension cord.

1500 Models

The engine block heater cord is routed under the hood on
the passenger side of the vehicle near the right head lamp
assembly. It is located between the front grill and the
radiator, but underneath the black upper seal.

484

STARTING AND OPERATING

2500/3500 Models

The engine block heater cord is routed through the grille
by the right front tow hook.

It includes a removable cap that is secured by a tethered
strap. It also has a c-clip that is used for storage when not
in use for the winter months. During winter months,
remove the heater cord wiring assembly from itself on
the c-clip.

The engine block heater must be plugged in at least one
hour to have an adequate warming effect on the engine.

WARNING!

Remember to disconnect the engine block heater
cord before driving. Damage to the 110-115 Volt
electrical cord could cause electrocution.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

CAUTION!

Damage to the transmission may occur if the follow-
ing precautions are not observed:

• Shift into or out of PARK or REVERSE only after

the vehicle has come to a complete stop.

• Do not shift between PARK, REVERSE, NEU-

TRAL, or DRIVE when the engine is above idle
speed.

• Before shifting into any gear, make sure your foot

is firmly pressing the brake pedal.

NOTE:

You must press and hold the brake pedal while

shifting out of PARK.

STARTING AND OPERATING

485

WARNING!

• It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL

if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If
your foot is not firmly pressing the brake pedal, the
vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in re-
verse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit
someone or something. Only shift into gear when
the engine is idling normally and your foot is
firmly pressing the brake pedal.

• Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure

those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles,
you should never exit a vehicle while the engine is
running. Before exiting a vehicle, always shift an
automatic transmission into PARK, or a manual
transmission into FIRST gear or REVERSE, turn
the engine OFF, apply the parking brake, and
remove the ignition key. When the ignition is in the

(Continued)

WARNING! (Continued)

LOCK/OFF (key removal) position, an automatic
transmission is locked in PARK, securing the ve-
hicle against unwanted movement.

• When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key

fob from the ignition and lock your vehicle. If
equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go, always make
sure the keyless ignition node is in “OFF” mode,
remove the Key Fob from the vehicle and lock the
vehicle.

• Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the

parking brake. Always apply the parking brake
fully when parked to guard against vehicle move-
ment and possible injury or damage.

• Your vehicle could move and injure you and others

if it is not in PARK. Check by trying to move the
transmission gear selector out of PARK with the

(Continued)

486

STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING! (Continued)

brake pedal released. Make sure the transmission
is in PARK before leaving the vehicle.

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing children to
be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be
seriously or fatally injured. Children should be
warned not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal
or the gear selector.

• Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle (or

in a location accessible to children), and do not
leave the ignition of a vehicle equipped with
Keyless Enter-N-Go in the ACC or ON/RUN mode.
A child could operate power windows, other con-
trols, or move the vehicle.

Key Ignition Park Interlock

This vehicle is equipped with a Key Ignition Park Inter-
lock which requires the transmission to be in PARK
before the ignition switch can be turned to the LOCK/
OFF (key removal) position. The Key Fob can only be
removed from the ignition when the ignition is in the
LOCK/OFF position, and the transmission is locked in
PARK whenever the ignition switch is in the LOCK/OFF
position.

NOTE:

If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the

Key Fob in the ignition switch to warn you that this
safety feature is inoperable. The engine can be started
and stopped but the Key Fob cannot be removed until
you obtain service.

Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System

This vehicle is equipped with a Brake Transmission Shift
Interlock System (BTSI) that holds the transmission gear
selector in PARK unless the brakes are applied. To shift

STARTING AND OPERATING

487

the transmission out of PARK, the ignition switch must
be turned to the ON/RUN position (engine running, for
vehicles with eight-speed transmission) and the brake
pedal must be pressed.

In 8-speed vehicles, the brake pedal must also be pressed
to shift from NEUTRAL into DRIVE or REVERSE when
the vehicle is stopped or moving at low speeds.

Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission — If
Equipped

The transmission is controlled using a rotary electronic
gear selector located on the instrument panel. The trans-
mission gear range (PRND) is displayed both above the
gear selector and in the Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC)/Driver Information Display (DID). To
select a gear range, simply rotate the gear selector. You
must press the brake pedal to shift the transmission out
of PARK, or to shift from NEUTRAL into DRIVE or
REVERSE, when the vehicle is stopped or moving at low

speeds (refer to “Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock Sys-
tem” in this section). To shift past multiple gear ranges at
once (such as Park to Drive), simply rotate the gear
selector to the appropriate detent. Select the DRIVE range
for normal driving.

The electronically-controlled transmission provides a
precise shift schedule. The transmission electronics are
self-calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on a new
vehicle may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal
condition, and precision shifts will develop within a few
hundred miles (kilometers).

Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when the
accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is stopped.
Be sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when
shifting between these gears.

The transmission gear selector has only PARK, RE-
VERSE, NEUTRAL, and DRIVE positions. Manual down-
shifts can be made using the Electronic Range Select

488

STARTING AND OPERATING

(ERS) shift control (refer to

⬙Electronic Range Select (ERS)

Operation

⬙ in this section for further information). Press-

ing the GEAR-/GEAR+ switches (on the steering wheel)
while in the DRIVE position will select the highest
available transmission gear, and will display that gear
limit in the instrument cluster as 1, 2, 3, etc. Models with
the Driver Information Display (DID) will display both
the selected gear limit, and the actual current gear, while
in ERS mode.

Gear Ranges

DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or
NEUTRAL into another gear range.

Electronic Transmission Gear Selector

STARTING AND OPERATING

489

NOTE:

After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to

allow the selected gear to engage before accelerating.
This is especially important when the engine is cold.

PARK (P)

This range supplements the parking brake by locking the
transmission. The engine can be started in this range.
Never attempt to use PARK while the vehicle is in
motion. Apply the parking brake when leaving the
vehicle in this range.

When parking on a level surface, you may shift the
transmission into PARK first, and then apply the parking
brake.

When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake before
shifting the transmission to PARK. As an added precau-
tion, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill
grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade.

NOTE:

On four-wheel drive vehicles be sure that the

transfer case is in a drive position.

WARNING!

• Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the

parking brake. Always apply the parking brake
fully when parked to guard against vehicle move-
ment and possible injury or damage.

• Your vehicle could move and injure you and others

if it is not in PARK. Make sure the transmission is
in PARK before leaving the vehicle.

• It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL

(Continued)

490

STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING! (Continued)

the engine is idling normally and your foot is
firmly pressing the brake pedal.

• Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure

those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles,
you should never exit a vehicle while the engine is
running. When the ignition is in the LOCK/OFF
(key removal) position, the transmission is locked
in PARK, securing the vehicle against unwanted
movement.

• Before exiting a vehicle, always apply the parking

brake, shift the automatic transmission into PARK,
turn the vehicle OFF, remove the key fob from the
ignition and lock your vehicle. If equipped with
Keyless Enter-N-Go, always make sure the keyless
ignition node is in “OFF” mode, remove the Key
Fob from the vehicle and lock the vehicle.

(Continued)

WARNING! (Continued)

• When leaving the vehicle, always make sure the

ignition is in the OFF position, remove the key fob
from the vehicle, and lock the vehicle.

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

• Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle (or

in a location accessible to children), and do not
leave the ignition (in a vehicle equipped with
Keyless Enter-N-Go) in the ACC or ON/ RUN
position. A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.

STARTING AND OPERATING

491

Dodge Ram 2500 (2016 year). Manual - part 30