Parking brake
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to leave the transmission in PARK.
The foot operated parking brake is located below the lower left corner of the instrument panel. To apply the park brake, firmly push the park brake pedal fully. To release the parking brake, pull the parking brake release handle.
Parking Brake Release
When the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch ON, the “Brake Warning Light” in the instrument cluster will illuminate.
NOTE:
When the parking brake is applied and the transmis-
sion is placed in gear, the “Brake Warning Light” will flash. If vehicle speed is detected, a chime will sound to alert the driver. Fully release the parking brake before attempting to move the vehicle.
This light only shows that the parking brake is ap- plied. It does not show the degree of brake application.
When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade. Apply the parking brake before placing the shift lever in PARK, otherwise the load on the transmission locking mechanism may
make it difficult to move the shift lever out of PARK. The parking brake should always be applied whenever the driver is not in the vehicle.
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 movement and possible injury or damage.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured.
Do not leave the key fob in the ignition switch. A child could operate power windows, other con- trols, or move the vehicle.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged
before driving; failure to do so can lead to brake failure and a collision.
Always fully apply the parking brake when leav- ing your vehicle or it may roll and cause damage or injury. Also, be certain to leave the transmission in PARK. Failure to do so may cause the vehicle to roll and cause damage or injury.
CAUTION! If the Brake System Warning Light remains on with the parking brake released, a brake system malfunc- tion is indicated. Have the brake system serviced by an authorized dealer immediately.
BRAKE SYSTEM
If power assist is lost for any reason (for example, repeated brake applications with the engine off), the brakes will still function. However, you will experience a substantial increase in braking effort to stop the vehicle. If either the front or rear hydraulic system loses normal braking capability, the remaining system will still func- tion with some loss of overall braking effectiveness. This will be evident by increased pedal travel during applica- tion, greater pedal force required to slow or stop, and activation of the “Brake Warning Light” and the “ABS Warning Light” (if equipped) during brake use.
3500 Dual Rear Wheel Models Only
The brake system power assist is provided by a hydro- boost unit which shares fluid with the power steering system. You may experience some clicking or hissing noises from the hydro-boost system during hard braking conditions.
NOTE: Under cold temperatures, pedal effort will be higher than normal until the power steering fluid reaches operating temperature.
Download Manual