2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Owner Manual - Page 460

458 STARTING AND OPERATING and/or the flow rate is reduced. If you must cross flowing water avoid depths in excess of 9 inches (23 cm). The flowing water can erode the streambed, causing your vehicle to sink into deeper water. Determine exit point(s) that are downstream of your entry point to allow for drifting. Driving In Snow, Mud And Sand In heavy snow, when pulling a load, or for additional control at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low gear and shift the transfer case to 4WD LOW if necessary. Refer to "Four-Wheel Drive Operation" in "Starting and Operating" for further information. Do not shift to a lower gear than necessary to maintain forward motion. Standing Water Over-revving the engine can spin the wheels and traction Avoid driving in standing water deeper than 20 inches will be lost. (51 cm), and reduce speed appropriately to minimize wave effects. Maximum speed in 20 inches (51 cm) of Avoid abrupt downshifts on icy or slippery roads, because engine braking may cause skidding and loss of control. water is less than 5 mph (8 km/h). Maintenance After driving through deep water, inspect your vehicle fluids and lubricants (engine oil, transmission oil, axle, transfer case) to assure the fluids have not been contaminated. Contaminated fluid (milky, foamy in appearance) should be flushed/changed as soon as possible to prevent component damage. Hill Climbing NOTE: Before attempting to climb a hill, determine the conditions at the crest and/or on the other side. Before climbing a steep hill, shift the transmission to a lower gear and shift the transfer case to 4WD LOW. Use first gear and 4WD LOW for very steep hills.