Welcome to the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country Owner’s Manual․ This guide provides essential information to help you understand and operate your vehicle safely and effectively․ It covers key features, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your minivan․
1․1 Purpose of the Manual
The purpose of the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country Owner’s Manual is to provide owners with a comprehensive guide to understanding and operating their vehicle․ This manual includes essential information about vehicle operation, maintenance, safety features, and troubleshooting․ It serves as a reference to help you maximize the performance, safety, and longevity of your minivan․ By following the guidelines and recommendations outlined in this manual, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience while maintaining your vehicle in optimal condition․
1․2 Important Safety Information
This manual contains critical safety information to ensure your well-being while operating the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country․ Always read and follow the guidelines provided to minimize risks and prevent accidents․ Familiarize yourself with safety features such as airbags, ABS, and Electronic Stability Control․ Proper use of seat belts, child restraints, and adherence to driving precautions are essential․ Never ignore warning lights or system alerts, as they indicate potential issues․ Regular maintenance and safe driving practices are crucial for protecting yourself, your passengers, and others on the road․
1․3 Vehicle Identification
Your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country has unique identification numbers that are important for maintenance and verification․ The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the driver’s side doorjamb or near the windshield․ This 17-character code provides details about your vehicle’s make, model, and production․ Additionally, the engine and transmission codes, found under the hood, help in identifying the correct parts for servicing․ Keep this information handy for reference when scheduling maintenance or ordering components to ensure accuracy and compatibility․
Vehicle Overview
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country is a versatile minivan designed for family comfort and convenience․ It offers a spacious interior, advanced technology, and a smooth driving experience, making it ideal for daily use and road trips alike․
2․1 Key Features of the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country boasts an array of innovative features, including a powerful 3․6L V6 engine, intuitive UConnect infotainment system, and sliding second-row seats․ It offers a comfortable ride with premium cloth or leather upholstery options․ Additional highlights include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a dual-zone climate control system․ Safety is enhanced with multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock braking․ These features combine to provide a blend of performance, comfort, and practicality for modern families on the go․
2․2 Exterior and Interior Design
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country features a sleek and functional exterior design with sliding doors, chrome accents, and alloy wheels․ The interior offers a spacious cabin with premium cloth or leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and ambient lighting․ Seating up to seven passengers, it provides ample legroom and cargo space․ The Stow ‘n Go seating system allows for versatile storage solutions․ Modern design elements include a visually appealing dashboard and ergonomic controls, creating a comfortable and practical environment for both drivers and passengers․
2․3 Seating and Storage Capacity
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country offers seating for up to seven passengers, with three rows of comfortable seating․ The second row features optional bucket seats or a bench, while the third row provides ample space for passengers or cargo․ The Stow ‘n Go seating system allows second and third-row seats to fold flat, creating a spacious cargo area․ With all seats up, the cargo capacity is 33 cubic feet, expanding to 83․7 cubic feet with the third row folded and 143․8 cubic feet with both second and third rows folded․ Additional storage compartments and bins enhance versatility․
Safety Features
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country is equipped with advanced safety features designed to protect occupants and enhance driving confidence․ Key systems include a robust airbag network, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes, all working together to provide superior safety and control on the road․
3․1 Airbag System
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country features a comprehensive seven-airbag system, including dual-front, side, and side-curtain airbags, designed to provide enhanced protection in various collision scenarios․ The airbags are part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), which deploys them during severe impacts to reduce the risk of injury․ Always wear seat belts to ensure optimal protection․ Never modify the airbag system, as this could impair its function․ Children and smaller individuals should not sit too close to the airbag to avoid potential harm during deployment․
3․2 Seat Belts and Child Restraints
Seat belts are essential for occupant safety․ Always wear them correctly, ensuring the lap belt is snug across the hips and the shoulder belt across the chest․ Never wear a belt under the arm or behind the back․ For children, use child restraints appropriate to their age, weight, and height․ Rear-facing seats are required for infants, while forward-facing seats with harnesses or booster seats suit older children․ Always follow the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country manual for proper installation and usage․ Failure to use seat belts or child restraints can result in severe injury or legal consequences․
3․3 Electronic Stability Control
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system enhances vehicle stability by automatically adjusting engine power and applying the brakes to individual wheels during unstable driving conditions․ Sensors monitor steering wheel input, vehicle speed, and yaw rate to detect loss of traction or skidding․ If the system detects instability, it intervenes to help stabilize the vehicle and keep it on course․ ESC is especially beneficial during sharp turns or slippery road conditions․ A dashboard indicator light illuminates when the system is active․ For optimal performance, keep ESC enabled except in specific off-road situations as outlined in the manual․
3․4 Brake Assist and Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
The Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, maintaining traction and vehicle control․ Sensors monitor wheel speed, and if a lockup is detected, ABS rapidly pumps the brakes to prevent skidding․ The Brake Assist system enhances emergency braking by applying maximum braking force when sudden pedal pressure is detected․ Together, these systems improve stopping performance and stability, reducing the risk of accidents․ A dashboard warning light will illuminate if ABS or Brake Assist is not functioning properly․ Always have these systems checked by a certified technician if a malfunction is indicated․
Instrument Cluster and Controls
The instrument cluster displays essential vehicle information, including speed, fuel level, and warning lights․ Controls for steering wheel functions, infotainment, and climate systems are within easy reach․
4․1 Understanding the Dashboard Gauges
The dashboard gauges provide vital information about your vehicle’s performance․ The speedometer shows your current speed, while the tachometer monitors engine RPM․ The fuel gauge indicates fuel levels, and the temperature gauge tracks engine heat․ Warning lights alert you to issues like low oil pressure or overheating․ Familiarize yourself with these indicators to monitor your vehicle’s condition and ensure safe operation․ Refer to this manual for detailed explanations of each gauge and light to understand their functions and significance․
4․2 Steering Wheel Controls
The steering wheel features integrated controls for convenient operation of key functions․ Use the volume and track controls to adjust the infotainment system without taking your hands off the wheel․ The cruise control buttons allow you to set and adjust your cruising speed․ Additional controls may include voice command activation for hands-free operation of phone, navigation, and audio systems․ Familiarize yourself with these controls to enhance your driving experience and maintain focus on the road while managing vehicle settings․
4․3 Infotainment System Overview
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country features a sophisticated Uconnect infotainment system, designed to enhance your driving experience․ The system includes a high-resolution touchscreen display, AM/FM radio, CD player, and USB/auxiliary inputs for multimedia connectivity․ It also supports Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls and wireless music streaming․ The interface allows easy navigation through menus for audio, climate, and navigation settings․ Voice command functionality is available for select models, enabling seamless control of the system․ This advanced infotainment system ensures convenience, entertainment, and connectivity on the go․
4․4 Climate Control Functions
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country offers a comprehensive climate control system for optimal comfort․ The dual-zone automatic temperature control allows driver and passenger to set individual preferences․ The system includes air conditioning, heating, and ventilation modes, with controls conveniently located on the center console․ Features like air quality sensors and rear passenger climate controls enhance comfort․ The system also integrates with the infotainment display for easy adjustments․ This advanced climate control ensures a pleasant cabin environment, regardless of external conditions, for all occupants to enjoy․
Driving Information
Before driving, ensure all occupants are properly secured․ Adjust mirrors, seats, and steering wheel for comfort․ Familiarize yourself with controls and systems․ Drive responsibly, maintaining safe speeds and following traffic laws․ The vehicle is designed for smooth acceleration and responsive handling․ Always anticipate road conditions and adjust driving habits accordingly․ Regular checks of tire pressure, brakes, and fluids contribute to optimal performance and safety on the road․
5․1 Starting and Stopping the Engine
To start the engine, insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to the “START” position․ Press the brake pedal firmly while turning the key to ensure safety․ The engine will start automatically․ For models with a keyless system, press the “ENGINE START/STOP” button while depressing the brake pedal․ When stopping, find a safe location, shift into “PARK,” and turn the key to “OFF” or press the button to shut off the engine․ Avoid sudden starts or stops to maintain control․ Always allow the engine to cool slightly before turning it off completely․
5․2 Transmission and Shifting
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country features a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission․ To operate, ensure the vehicle is stationary and the brake pedal is pressed․ Move the shift lever through the gear positions (P, R, N, D, L)․ Use “PARK” only when the vehicle is stationary․ For manual shifting, use the TapShift® feature by moving the lever left or right to select gears․ Avoid sudden shifts, especially when accelerating or decelerating, to maintain control and comfort; Always confirm the vehicle is in “PARK” before exiting․ This ensures safety and prevents unintended movement․
5․3 Acceleration and Braking Tips
For smooth acceleration, press the pedal gently and avoid sudden inputs, especially when driving uphill or carrying heavy loads․ Use cruise control on flat roads to maintain a steady speed and improve fuel efficiency․ When braking, apply the pedal gradually, especially on wet or uneven surfaces․ Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can trigger the ABS system unnecessarily․ Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow ample stopping time․ This ensures better control and safety for you and your passengers․
5․4 Fuel Efficiency and Driving Habits
To maximize fuel efficiency, adopt smooth driving habits․ Accelerate gradually and avoid unnecessary idling․ Maintain a steady speed on highways using cruise control․ Remove extra weight from the vehicle, as it reduces efficiency․ Check tire pressure regularly, as underinflated tires can lower mileage․ The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country is estimated to achieve up to 25 MPG on the highway․ By following these tips, you can optimize fuel economy and reduce operating costs while minimizing environmental impact․
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the reliability, longevity, and performance of your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country․ This section provides guidelines for inspections, repairs, and care to help you keep your vehicle in optimal condition․ By following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can prevent issues, reduce repair costs, and ensure your minivan runs efficiently for years to come․
6․1 Scheduled Maintenance Services
Scheduled maintenance is essential to ensure your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country runs efficiently and reliably․ Services are typically required at intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions․ These include oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections of belts, hoses, and brakes․ Always refer to the maintenance schedule in this manual for specific recommendations․ Regular servicing helps prevent mechanical issues, optimizes fuel efficiency, and extends the lifespan of your vehicle․ Consult a certified Chrysler technician for professional assistance and genuine parts․
6․2 Oil Change and Fluid Check Guidelines
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country requires regular oil changes to maintain engine health․ Oil should be changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, using synthetic oil for optimal performance․ Additionally, check all vital fluids, including coolant, transmission, brake, and windshield washer fluids, at each service interval․ Always use the recommended fluid types specified in this manual to ensure compatibility and performance․ Regular fluid checks help prevent overheating, corrosion, and mechanical failures․ Consult a certified technician if you’re unsure about the process or fluid levels․
6;3 Tire Pressure and Rotation
Proper tire pressure and rotation are essential for safety, efficiency, and even tire wear․ Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips, using the pressure specified in the Tire Information placard on the driver’s doorjamb․ Rotate tires every 8,000 miles or as recommended to ensure even tread wear․ Use the tire rotation pattern provided in this manual to maintain balance and performance․ Uneven wear can reduce traction and shorten tire life․ Always consult a certified technician if you notice abnormal wear or have questions about the process․
6․4 Battery Care and Jump-Starting
Regular battery maintenance ensures reliable starting power․ Check terminals for corrosion and clean them with a wire brush if necessary․ Avoid overcharging, as it can damage the battery․ If jump-starting, connect positive (+) to positive and negative (-) to a grounded metal surface, not the negative terminal of the dead battery; Start the working vehicle, then the one with the dead battery․ Allow it to run for a few minutes before shutting off․ Always wear protective eyewear and follow safety precautions to avoid sparks or explosion․
Customization and Settings
Customize your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country to suit your preferences․ Adjust seats, mirrors, and settings for comfort and convenience․ Explore voice commands and infotainment options for a personalized experience․
7․1 Adjusting Seats and Mirrors
Adjusting the seats and mirrors in your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country ensures optimal comfort and visibility․ The driver and front passenger seats feature power controls for height, lumbar, and recline․ Use the switches on the side of the seat to customize your position․ For second and third-row seats, manually fold, slide, or recline them using the provided levers or handles․ Exterior mirrors can be adjusted using the control on the door panel, while the interior mirror tilts for reduced glare․ Properly adjusting these features enhances your driving experience and safety․
7․2 Setting Up the Infotainment System
To set up the infotainment system in your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country, start by turning the ignition to the “ON” position and pressing the “POWER” button․ Use the touchscreen to navigate through the menu․ Pair your phone or devices via Bluetooth or USB for connectivity․ Set your preferences for radio stations, equalizer settings, and display options․ For voice command, press and hold the “VOICE” button on the steering wheel to activate․ Save your settings to customize the system to your liking․ Ensure all features are properly configured for optimal performance․
7․3 Configuring Driver Preferences
Configure driver preferences in your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country by using the settings menu on the infotainment screen․ Adjust the seat position, mirror angles, and steering wheel tilt to your liking․ Save these settings using the memory feature for easy recall․ Set your preferred temperature, fan speed, and air distribution in the climate control․ Enable or disable features like auto-lock doors and door chimes․ Customize lighting preferences and display brightness for a personalized driving experience․ These settings enhance comfort and convenience during your drive․
7․4 Using Voice Command Features
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country offers voice command features for convenient control of select systems․ Press the voice command button on the steering wheel to activate the system․ Use voice commands to control the navigation, phone, and media systems․ Speak naturally and clearly, such as saying “Call John” or “Play FM radio․” The system will prompt you with options or confirm your requests․ Refer to the manual for a full list of supported commands․ This feature enhances safety by keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Welcome to the Troubleshooting Common Issues section․ This guide helps identify and resolve frequent concerns, ensuring your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country operates smoothly․ Use the manual’s index to locate specific problems and follow step-by-step solutions for safe and effective troubleshooting․ Regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues will help maintain your vehicle’s performance and longevity․ Always refer to certified Chrysler resources for accurate repairs and adjustments․
8․1 Diagnosing Warning Lights
The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country features a comprehensive warning light system on the instrument cluster․ Each light represents a specific function or potential issue, such as engine, battery, or braking systems․ Refer to this section to understand the meaning of each warning light․ If a light illuminates, consult the manual for guidance on appropriate actions․ Some lights may require immediate attention, while others indicate routine maintenance needs․ Always address warning lights promptly to ensure vehicle safety and prevent potential damage․ Use the index for quick reference to specific light diagnostics․
8․2 Addressing Common Mechanical Issues
This section covers common mechanical issues you may encounter with your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country․ Topics include diagnosing and addressing problems with the cooling system, transmission, and suspension․ Learn how to identify unusual noises, leaks, or performance changes․ For example, coolant leaks or transmission slips may require immediate attention․ Always refer to the recommended procedures for inspection and repair․ If issues persist, consult a certified technician to ensure proper resolution and maintain your vehicle’s reliability and safety on the road․
8․3 Solving Electrical System Problems
This section helps you identify and resolve common electrical issues in your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country․ Topics include troubleshooting flickering dashboard lights, addressing dead battery scenarios, and resolving issues with power windows or door locks; Learn how to check fuses, test circuits, and identify faulty wiring․ For complex problems, such as malfunctioning sensors or electrical system errors, guidance is provided on when to use diagnostic tools or consult a certified technician to ensure proper and safe repairs․
8․4 Resetting the Service Indicator
Resetting the Service Indicator on your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country is essential after scheduled maintenance or oil changes․ Locate the Steering Wheel Control buttons and use them to navigate to the Instrument Cluster Menu․ Select the Service or Maintenance option, then press and hold the OK button until the indicator resets․ If the light persists, ensure all maintenance tasks are completed and consult a certified technician if issues remain․ Always refer to this manual or a Chrysler service center for accurate guidance․
Emergency Procedures
Welcome to the Emergency Procedures section․ This guide outlines essential steps for handling various emergencies, ensuring your safety and vehicle preservation․ Follow instructions carefully․
9․1 What to Do in Case of a Flat Tire
If your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country experiences a flat tire, move to a safe location and turn on hazard lights․ Engage the parking brake and put the transmission in PARK․ Gather the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench․ Loosen the lug nuts with the wrench before raising the vehicle․ Remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare, tightening the lug nuts securely․ Drive carefully to the nearest service center to have the flat tire repaired․ Never exceed the speed limit specified for the spare tire․
9․2 Handling a Vehicle Breakdown
If your 2012 Chrysler Town & Country breaks down, move to a safe location off the road and turn on hazard lights․ Engage the parking brake and stay inside the vehicle․ Call for roadside assistance or a tow truck․ Avoid standing near traffic and keep emergency supplies, such as a flashlight and reflective triangles, handy․ If you must exit the vehicle, do so cautiously and remain visible․ Stay with the vehicle until help arrives․ Never attempt to repair the vehicle in unsafe conditions․
9․3 Emergency Braking Techniques
In an emergency, press the brake pedal firmly and steadily to avoid locking the wheels․ Avoid sudden or hard braking, as this can cause skidding․ Keep the steering wheel steady to maintain control․ If equipped, the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) will activate, pulsating the brakes to prevent wheel lock-up․ Downshift before braking if manual transmission․ Stay calm, as aggressive braking can lead to loss of control․ Always be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe following distance to reduce the need for emergency stops․
9․4 Fire Safety and Prevention
To prevent fires, ensure proper maintenance of your vehicle, including regular inspection of electrical and fuel systems․ Avoid overloading the vehicle, as this can cause overheating․ Keep a fire extinguisher in the vehicle at all times․ In case of a fire, evacuate the vehicle immediately, move to a safe location, and call emergency services․ Do not open the hood or attempt to fight the fire yourself unless trained․ Never park near open flames or sparks․ Always follow proper refueling procedures to avoid static electricity ignition risks․
Additional Resources
For further assistance, refer to the Chrysler Town & Country support website, authorized dealers, or owner forums․ Additional guides and troubleshooting tips are also available online․
10․1 Contacting Chrysler Customer Service
For assistance, contact Chrysler Customer Service at 1-800-247-9753․ Representatives are available to help with general inquiries, technical support, and service scheduling․ Visit the official Chrysler website at https://www․chrysler․com for online support or to chat with a representative․ You can also email through the website or use the Chrysler Owner Center for personalized assistance․ Customer service is available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM EST, and Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM EST․
10․2 Finding a Certified Service Center
To locate a certified Chrysler Service Center, visit the Chrysler website at https://www․chrysler․com and use the “Dealer Locator” tool․ Enter your ZIP code to find authorized dealerships near you․ Certified centers employ trained technicians who use genuine parts and ensure your vehicle receives proper care․ They also honor warranties and provide maintenance tailored to your 2012 Town & Country․ For further assistance, contact Chrysler Customer Service at 1-800-247-9753 or through the Chrysler Owner Center․
10․3 Accessing Online Manuals and Guides
Access the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country Owner’s Manual and other guides online through the Chrysler Owner Center․ Visit https://www․chrysler;com, log in to your account, and navigate to the “Manuals & Guides” section․ Here, you can download or view the complete owner’s manual, warranty information, and supplementary guides; Additionally, find repair manuals, technical bulletins, and how-to videos for DIY maintenance․ For assistance, contact Chrysler Customer Service or refer to the Chrysler Owner Center support page․
10․4 Joining Chrysler Town & Country Owner Communities
Connect with fellow 2012 Chrysler Town & Country owners by joining online forums, social media groups, and local clubs․ Websites like Chrysler Forums and Chrysler Town & Country Owners Group on Facebook offer platforms for discussions, advice, and sharing experiences․ Many local communities also host meetups and events where owners can network and learn tips for maintaining and customizing their vehicles․ Engaging with these communities provides valuable support and enhances your ownership experience․