TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE 1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................. 3 2 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE .............................. 9 3 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE .............................. 73 4 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL ................................... 171 5 STARTING AND OPERATING ................................................. 247 6 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES .............................................. 349 7 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ............................................... 371 8 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES .................................................. 441 9 IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE ......................................... 469 10 INDEX .................................................................... 477 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
INTRODUCTION CONTENTS Introduction ........................... 4 A Message From DaimlerChrysler Corporation . . . 5 How To Use This Manual .................. 5 Warnings And Cautions ................... 5 Van Conversions/Campers ................. 6 Vehicle Identification Number ............... 6 Vehicle 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 Mopar parts, 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. 4 INTRODUCTION
A MESSAGE FROM DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION DaimlerChrysler Corporation and Cummins welcome you as a new Dodge Ram Cummins Turbo Diesel- powered truck owner. 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. See the Warranty information book, Section 2.1.C. 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. Vehicle Identification Number INTRODUCTION 7 1
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS A Word About Your Keys ..................12 ▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................12 ▫ Sentry Key — If Equipped ................12 Ignition And Steering Lock .................15 ▫ Manual Transmissions ...................15 ▫ Automatic Transmissions .................16 Door Key .............................17 Door Locks ............................17 ▫ Manual Locks .........................17 ▫ Power Door Locks — If Equipped ..........18 ▫ Child Protection Door Lock ...............21 Remote Keyless Entry — If Equipped .........22 ▫ To Unlock The Doors ...................23 ▫ To Lock The Doors .....................23 ▫ Using The Panic Alarm ..................24 ▫ General Information ....................25 ▫ Transmitter Battery Service ...............25 Security Alarm System — If Equipped .........26 2
▫ Rearming Of The System .................26 ▫ To Set The Alarm ......................27 ▫ To Disarm The System ...................27 Windows .............................28 ▫ Power Windows—If Equipped .............28 ▫ Power Sliding Rear Window—If Equipped ....29 ▫ Sliding Rear Window—If Equipped .........30 ▫ Wind Buffeting ........................30 Occupant Restraints (2500/3500/Mega Cab Only) ................30 ▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................31 ▫ Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....38 ▫ Automatic Locking Restraint (ALR) Mode – If Equipped ..........................39 ▫ Center Lap Belts .......................40 ▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................40 ▫ Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System (BeltAlert) ...........................41 ▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............42 ▫ Seat Belt Extender ......................42 ▫ Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)—Airbag ............43 ▫ Event Data Recorder (EDR) ...............54 ▫ Child Restraint ........................55 New Engine Break-In .....................69 Safety Tips ............................70 ▫ Transporting Passengers .................70 ▫ Lock Your Vehicle ......................70 10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
This 2006 Dodge RAM Cummins Turbo Diesel Owner’s Manual provides essential information for operating, maintaining, and understanding the features of the Dodge RAM equipped with the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine. It includes manufacturer-recommended guidelines for safe operation, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal vehicle performance.
Designed for Dodge RAM Cummins Diesel owners and fleet operators, this manual details fundamental vehicle functions, dashboard indicators, and critical safety procedures. It provides factory-issued guidance on essential driving practices, diesel engine management, and emergency response protocols.
Key Sections in This Manual:
Vehicle Identification & General Information – VIN location, model details, and regulatory compliance.
Controls & Features – Overview of dashboard controls, instrument panel, and vehicle settings.
Diesel Engine Specifics – Fuel system requirements, emissions control information, and turbocharger operation.
Emergency Procedures – Instructions for handling roadside breakdowns, warning lights, and system failures.
Maintenance & Service Intervals – Recommended maintenance schedules, fluid specifications, and general servicing procedures.
This manual serves as a vital reference for Dodge RAM Cummins Turbo Diesel owners, offering factory-authorized operational instructions and maintenance recommendations to ensure long-term reliability and performance.
Printable: Yes Language: English Compatibility: Pretty much any electronic device, incl. PC & Mac computers, Android and Apple smartphones & tablet, etc. Requirements: Adobe Reader (free)