Jeep Compass (2019 year). Manual

— Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light — If

Equipped With A Premium Instrument Cluster

This light will turn on when the speed control has been
turned on, but not set. Refer to “Speed Control — If
Equipped” in “Starting And Operating” for further infor-
mation.

— Cruise Control SET Indicator Light — If

Equipped With Base Instrument Cluster

This indicator light will illuminate when the speed control
is set.

Refer to “Speed Control — If Equipped” in “Starting And
Operating” for further information.

— Speed Warning Indicator Light — If Equipped

When Set Speed Warning is turned on and when the set
speed is exceeded, a single chime will sound along with
pop up message of “Speed Warning Exceeded.” Speed
Warning can be turned on and off in the instrument cluster
display.

Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display Menu Items” in
“Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.

The number “55” is only an example of a speed that can be
set.

Blue Indicator Lights

— High Beam Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate to indicate that the high
beam headlights are on. With the low beams activated,
push the multifunction lever forward (toward the front of
the vehicle) to turn on the high beams. Pull the multifunc-
tion lever rearward (toward the rear of the vehicle) to turn
off the high beams. If the high beams are off, pull the lever
toward you for a temporary high beam on,

⬙flash to pass⬙

scenario.

Gray Indicator Lights

— Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light — If

Equipped With Base Instrument Cluster

This light will turn on when the speed control has been
turned on, but not set. Refer to “Speed Control — If
Equipped” in “Starting And Operating” for further infor-
mation.

132

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II

Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated Onboard
Diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors the
performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic trans-
mission control systems. When these systems are operating
properly, your vehicle will provide excellent performance
and fuel economy, as well as emissions well within current
government regulations.

If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to assist
your service technician in making repairs. Although your
vehicle will usually be drivable and not need towing, see
an authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.

CAUTION!

• Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause

further damage to the emission control system. It
could also affect fuel economy and driveability. The
vehicle must be serviced before any emissions tests
can be performed.

• If the MIL is flashing while the vehicle is running,

severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.

Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) Cybersecurity

Your vehicle is required to have an Onboard Diagnostic
system (OBD II) and a connection port to allow access to
information related to the performance of your emissions
controls. Authorized service technicians may need to ac-
cess this information to assist with the diagnosis and
service of your vehicle and emissions system.

WARNING!

• ONLY an authorized service technician should connect

equipment to the OBD II connection port in order to
read the VIN, diagnose, or service your vehicle.

• If unauthorized equipment is connected to the

OBD II connection port, such as a driver-behavior
tracking device, it may:

• Be possible that vehicle systems, including safety

related systems, could be impaired or a loss of
vehicle control could occur that may result in an
accident involving serious injury or death.

• Access, or allow others to access, information

stored in your vehicle systems, including personal
information.

For further information, refer to “Cybersecurity” in “Mul-
timedia”.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

133

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMS

In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an
inspection of your vehicle’s emissions control system.
Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.

For states that require an Inspection and Main-
tenance (I/M), this check verifies the “Malfunc-
tion Indicator Light (MIL)” is functioning and is
not on when the engine is running, and that the

OBD II system is ready for testing.

Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The OBD II
system may not be ready if your vehicle was recently
serviced, recently had a dead battery or a battery replace-
ment. If the OBD II system should be determined not ready
for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test.

Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated test, which you
can use prior to going to the test station. To check if your
vehicle’s OBD II system is ready, you must do the follow-
ing:

1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, but do not

crank or start the engine.

NOTE:

If you crank or start the engine, you will have to

start this test over.

2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to the ON

position, you will see the “Malfunction Indicator Light
(MIL)” symbol come on as part of a normal bulb check.

3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will

happen:

• The MIL will flash for about ten seconds and then return

to being fully illuminated until you turn OFF the igni-
tion or start the engine. This means that your vehicle’s
OBD II system is not ready and you should not proceed
to the I/M station.

• The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully

illuminated until you place the ignition in the off posi-
tion or start the engine. This means that your vehicle’s
OBD II system is ready and you can proceed to the I/M
station.

If your OBD II system is not ready, you should see an
authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle was
recently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement,
you may need to do nothing more than drive your vehicle
as you normally would in order for your OBD II system to
update. A recheck with the above test routine may then
indicate that the system is now ready.

134

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

SAFETY FEATURES

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) provides increased
vehicle stability and brake performance under most brak-
ing conditions. The system automatically prevents wheel
lock, and enhances vehicle control during braking.

The ABS performs a self-check cycle to ensure that the ABS
is working properly each time the vehicle is started and
driven. During this self-check, you may hear a slight
clicking sound as well as some related motor noises.

ABS is activated during braking when the system detects
one or more wheels begin to lock. Road conditions such as
ice, snow, gravel, bumps, railroad tracks, loose debris, or
panic stops may increase the likelihood of ABS activa-
tion(s).

You also may experience the following when ABS activates:
• The ABS motor noise (it may continue to run for a short

time after the stop).

• The clicking sound of solenoid valves.
• Brake pedal pulsations.
• A slight drop of the brake pedal at the end of the stop.

These are all normal characteristics of ABS.

WARNING!

• The ABS contains sophisticated electronic equip-

ment that may be susceptible to interference caused
by improperly installed or high output radio trans-
mitting equipment. This interference can cause pos-
sible loss of anti-lock braking capability. Installation
of such equipment should be performed by qualified
professionals.

• Pumping of the Anti-Lock Brakes will diminish their

effectiveness and may lead to a collision. Pumping
makes the stopping distance longer. Just press firmly
on your brake pedal when you need to slow down or
stop.

• The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics

from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase brak-
ing or steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the
condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the
traction afforded.

• The ABS cannot prevent collisions, including those

resulting from excessive speed in turns, following
another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning.

(Continued)

138

SAFETY

WARNING! (Continued)

• The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must

never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner
that could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of
others.

ABS is designed to function with the OEM tires. Modifica-
tion may result in degraded ABS performance.

Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light

The yellow “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” will turn on
when the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode and
may stay on for as long as four seconds.

If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” remains on or
comes on while driving, it indicates that the anti-lock
portion of the brake system is not functioning and that
service is required. However, the conventional brake sys-
tem will continue to operate normally if the “Anti-Lock
Brake Warning Light” is on.

If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” is on, the brake
system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the
benefits of anti-lock brakes. If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning
Light” does not come on when the ignition is turned to the
ON/RUN mode, have the light repaired as soon as possible.

Electronic Brake Control System

Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced Electronic
Brake Control system (EBC). This system includes Elec-
tronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill Start Assist
(HSA), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability
Control (ESC), and Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM). These
systems work together to enhance both vehicle stability
and control in various driving conditions.

Your vehicle may also be equipped with Ready Alert
Braking (RAB), Rain Brake Support (RBS), Trailer Sway
Control (TSC), Hill Descent Control (HDC), and Dynamic
Steering Torque (DST).

Traction Control System (TCS)

This system monitors the amount of wheel spin of each of
the driven wheels. If wheel spin is detected, the TCS may
apply brake pressure to the spinning wheel(s) and/or
reduce vehicle power to provide enhanced acceleration
and stability. A feature of the TCS, Brake Limited Differen-
tial (BLD), functions similar to a limited slip differential
and controls the wheel spin across a driven axle. If one
wheel on a driven axle is spinning faster than the other, the
system will apply the brake of the spinning wheel. This

SAFETY

139

will allow more vehicle torque to be applied to the wheel
that is not spinning. BLD may remain enabled even if TCS
and ESC are in a reduced mode.

Brake Assist System (BAS)

The BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s braking
capability during emergency braking maneuvers. The sys-
tem detects an emergency braking situation by sensing the
rate and amount of brake application and then applies
optimum pressure to the brakes. This can help reduce
braking distances. The BAS complements the anti-lock
brake system (ABS). Applying the brakes very quickly
results in the best BAS assistance. To receive the benefit of
the system, you must apply continuous braking pressure
during the stopping sequence, (do not “pump” the brakes).
Do not reduce brake pedal pressure unless braking is no
longer desired. Once the brake pedal is released, the BAS is
deactivated.

WARNING!

The Brake Assist System (BAS) cannot prevent the
natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing road
conditions. BAS cannot prevent collisions, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving
on very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. The capa-
bilities of a BAS-equipped vehicle must never be
exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner, which
could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of
others.

Brake System Warning Light

The red “Brake System Warning Light” will turn on when
the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode and may stay
on for as long as four seconds.

If the “Brake System Warning Light” remains on or comes
on while driving, it indicates that the brake system is not
functioning properly and that immediate service is re-
quired. If the “Brake System Warning Light” does not come
on when the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode, have
the light repaired as soon as possible.

140

SAFETY

Dynamic Steering Torque (DST)

Dynamic Steering Torque is a feature of the ESC and
Electric Power Steering (EPS) modules that provides
torque at the steering wheel for certain driving conditions
in which the ESC module is detecting vehicle instability.
The torque that the steering wheel receives is only meant to
help the driver realize optimal steering behavior in order to
reach/maintain vehicle stability. The only notification the
driver receives that the feature is active is the torque
applied to the steering wheel.

NOTE:

The DST feature is only meant to help the driver

realize the correct course of action through small torques
on the steering wheel, which means the effectiveness of the
DST feature is highly dependent on the driver’s sensitivity
and overall reaction to the applied torque. It is very
important to realize that this feature will not steer the
vehicle, meaning the driver is still responsible for steering
the vehicle.

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

This function manages the distribution of the braking
torque between the front and rear axles by limiting braking
pressure to the rear axle. This is done to prevent overslip of
the rear wheels to avoid vehicle instability, and to prevent
the rear axle from entering ABS before the front axle.

Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)

This system anticipates the potential for wheel lift by
monitoring the driver’s steering wheel input and the speed
of the vehicle. When ERM determines that the rate of
change of the steering wheel angle and vehicle’s speed are
sufficient to potentially cause wheel lift, it then applies the
appropriate brake and may also reduce engine power to
lessen the chance that wheel lift will occur. ERM can only
reduce the chance of wheel lift occurring during severe or
evasive driving maneuvers; it cannot prevent wheel lift
due to other factors, such as road conditions, leaving the
roadway, or striking objects or other vehicles.

WARNING!

Many factors, such as vehicle loading, road conditions
and driving conditions, influence the chance that
wheel lift or rollover may occur. ERM cannot prevent
all wheel lift or roll overs, especially those that involve
leaving the roadway or striking objects or other ve-
hicles. The capabilities of an ERM-equipped vehicle
must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the
safety of others.

SAFETY

141

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

This system enhances directional control and stability of
the vehicle under various driving conditions. ESC corrects
for oversteering or understeering of the vehicle by apply-
ing the brake of the appropriate wheel(s) to assist in
counteracting the oversteer or understeer condition. En-
gine power may also be reduced to help the vehicle
maintain the desired path.

ESC uses sensors in the vehicle to determine the vehicle
path intended by the driver and compares it to the actual
path of the vehicle. When the actual path does not match
the intended path, ESC applies the brake of the appropriate
wheel to assist in counteracting the oversteer or understeer
condition.
• Oversteer — when the vehicle is turning more than

appropriate for the steering wheel position.

• Understeer — when the vehicle is turning less than

appropriate for the steering wheel position.

The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” located
in the instrument cluster will start to flash as soon as the
ESC system becomes active. The “ESC Activation/
Malfunction Indicator Light” also flashes when the TCS is
active. If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator

Light” begins to flash during acceleration, ease up on the
accelerator and apply as little throttle as possible. Be sure to
adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road
conditions.

WARNING!

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot prevent the

natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle,
nor can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing
road conditions. ESC cannot prevent accidents, in-
cluding those resulting from excessive speed in
turns, driving on very slippery surfaces, or hydro-
planing. ESC also cannot prevent accidents resulting
from loss of vehicle control due to inappropriate
driver input for the conditions. Only a safe, attentive,
and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capa-
bilities of an ESC equipped vehicle must never be
exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which
could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of
others.

(Continued)

142

SAFETY

WARNING! (Continued)

• Vehicle modifications, or failure to properly main-

tain your vehicle, may change the handling charac-
teristics of your vehicle, and may negatively affect
the performance of the ESC system. Changes to the
steering system, suspension, braking system, tire
type and size or wheel size may adversely affect ESC
performance. Improperly inflated and unevenly
worn tires may also degrade ESC performance. Any
vehicle modification or poor vehicle maintenance
that reduces the effectiveness of the ESC system can
increase the risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle
rollover, personal injury and death.

ESC Operating Modes

NOTE:

Depending upon model and mode of operation, the

ESC system may have multiple operating modes.

ESC On

This is the normal operating mode for the ESC. Whenever
the vehicle is started, the ESC system will be in this mode.
This mode should be used for most driving conditions.
Alternate ESC modes should only be used for specific
reasons as noted in the following paragraphs.

ESC OFF Button

SAFETY

143

Partial Off

The “Partial Off” mode is intended for times when a more
spirited driving experience is desired. This mode may
modify TCS and ESC thresholds for activation, which
allows for more wheel spin than normally allowed. This
mode may be useful if the vehicle becomes stuck.

To enter the “Partial Off” mode, momentarily push the
“ESC Off” switch and the “ESC Off Indicator Light” will
illuminate. To turn the ESC on again, momentarily push
the “ESC Off” switch and the “ESC Off Indicator Light”
will turn off.

NOTE:

When driving with snow chains, or when starting

off in deep snow, sand, or gravel, it may be desirable to
allow more wheel spin. This can be accomplished by
momentarily pushing the “ESC Off” button to enter partial
mode “Partial Off” mode. Once the situation requiring
“Partial Off” mode is overcome, turn ESC back on by
momentarily pushing the “ESC Off” button. This may be
done while the vehicle is in motion.

WARNING!

• When in “Partial Off” mode, the TCS functionality

of ESC, (except for the limited slip feature described
in the TCS section), has been disabled and the “ESC
Off Indicator Light” will be illuminated. When in
“Partial Off” mode, the engine power reduction
feature of TCS is disabled, and the enhanced vehicle
stability offered by the ESC system is reduced.

• Trailer Sway control (TSC) is disabled when the ESC

system is in the “Partial Off” mode.

Full Off (Four-Wheel Drive Models Only)

This mode is intended for off-highway or off-road use
when ESC stability features could inhibit vehicle maneu-
verability due to trail conditions. This mode is entered by
pushing and holding the “ESC Off” switch for five seconds
when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is running.
After five seconds, the

⬙ESC OFF Indicator Light⬙ will

illuminate and the “ESC OFF” message will appear in the
instrument cluster display.

144

SAFETY

In this mode, ESC and TCS, except for the “limited slip”
feature described in the TCS section, are turned off until the
vehicle reaches a speed of 40 mph (64 km/h). At 40 mph
(64 km/h), the system returns to “Partial Off” mode, as
described above. TCS remains off. When the vehicle speed
drops below 30 mph (48 km/h), the ESC system shuts off.
ESC is deactivated at low vehicle speeds so that it will not
interfere with off-road driving however, ESC function
returns to provide the stability feature at speeds above
40 mph (64 km/h). The

⬙ESC OFF Indicator Light⬙ will

always be illuminated when ESC is off.

To turn ESC on again, momentarily push the “ESC Off”
switch. This will restore the “ESC On” mode of operation.

NOTE:

The “ESC OFF” message will display and an

audible chime will sound when the gear selector is placed
into the PARK position from any other position, and then
moved out of the PARK position. This will occur even if the
message was previously cleared.

WARNING!

In the

ⴖFull Offⴖ mode, the engine torque reduction and

stability features are disabled. In an emergency evasive
maneuver, the ESC system will not engage to assist in
maintaining stability. “ESC Off” mode is intended for
off-highway or off-road use only.

ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light And
ESC OFF Indicator Light

The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” in the instrument cluster will come on
when the ignition is turned to the ON mode. It
should go out with the engine running. If the

“ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” comes on
continuously with the engine running, a malfunction has
been detected in the ESC system. If this light remains on
after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been
driven several miles (kilometers) at speeds greater than
30 mph (48 km/h), see an authorized dealer as soon as
possible to have the problem diagnosed and corrected.

SAFETY

145

The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” (lo-
cated in the instrument cluster) starts to flash as soon as the
tires lose traction and the ESC system becomes active. The
“ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” also flashes
when TCS is active. If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light” begins to flash during acceleration, ease
up on the accelerator and apply as little throttle as possible.
Be sure to adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing
road conditions.

NOTE:
• The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” and

the “ESC OFF Indicator Light” come on momentarily
each time the ignition is turned ON.

• Each time the ignition is turned ON, the ESC system will

be on even if it was turned off previously.

• The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds

when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop
when ESC becomes inactive following the maneuver
that caused the ESC activation.

The “ESC OFF Indicator Light” indicates the
customer has elected to have the Electronic Sta-
bility Control (ESC) in a reduced mode.

Hill Descent Control (HDC) — If Equipped

HDC is intended for low speed off road driving while in
4WD Low Range. HDC maintains vehicle speed while
descending hills during various driving situations. HDC
controls vehicle speed by actively controlling the brakes.

Hill Descent Control (Trailhawk)

146

SAFETY

HDC has three states:

1. Off (feature is not enabled and will not activate).

2. Enabled (feature is enabled and ready but activation

conditions are not met, or driver is actively overriding
with brake or throttle application).

3. Active (feature is enabled and actively controlling ve-

hicle speed).

Enabling HDC

HDC is enabled by pushing the HDC switch, but the
following conditions must also be met to enable HDC:
• Driveline is in 4WD Low Range.
• Vehicle speed is below 7.5 mph (12 km/h).
• Electric Park Brake (EPB) is released.
• Driver’s door is closed.

Activating HDC

Once HDC is enabled, it will activate automatically if
driven down a grade of sufficient magnitude (greater than
approximately 8%). The set speed for HDC is selectable by
the driver and can be adjusted within the thresholds by
using throttle or brake application.

Driver Override:

The driver may override HDC activation speed with
throttle or brake application at anytime.

Deactivating HDC

HDC will be deactivated but remain available if any of the
following conditions occur:
• Driver overrides HDC set speed with a speed exceeding

7.5 mph (12 km/h) but remains below 25 mph
(40 km/h).

• Vehicle is on a downhill grade of insufficient magnitude

(less than approximately 8%), is on level ground, or is on
an uphill grade.

• Vehicle is shifted to PARK.

Disabling HDC

HDC will be deactivated and disabled if any of the
following conditions occur:
• The driver pushes the HDC switch.
• The driveline is shifted out of 4WD Low Range.
• Driver’s door opens.

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147

Jeep Compass (2019 year). Manual - part 9