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To replace the navigation map DVD lift the storage bin
cover and liner in the rear cargo area, press the eject
button and the disc will eject. Gently insert the new disc
into the DVD unit with the label facing up. The disc will
automatically be pulled into the DVD unit.
CLIMATE CONTROLS
The Air Conditioning and Heating System is designed to
make you comfortable in all types of weather.
Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control
The Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)
System automatically maintains the interior comfort level
desired by the driver and front seat passenger. This is
accomplished by using two infrared sensors located in
the center of the instrument panel. The two infrared
sensors independently measure the surface temperature
of the driver and front seat passenger. Based on the
sensor input, the system automatically adjusts the airtemperature, the airflow volume, the airflow distribu-
tion, and amount of inside air recirculation to maintain
front seat occupant comfort, even under changing out-
side weather conditions.
To operate the system, press either the9AUTO HI9or
9AUTO LO9buttons. The system now automatically
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regulates the heating and air conditioning system includ-
ing blower speed, outlet air temperature, and airflow
distribution through the various outlets within the in-
strument panel. Using the9TEMP9buttons, adjust the
temperature you would like the system to maintain.
When the system is set to your comfort level, it is not
necessary to change the settings. You will experience the
greatest efficiency by allowing the system to function
automatically. The system will operate fully automati-
cally in either9AUTO HI9or9AUTO LO9. The9AUTO
LO9setting will limit the maximum fan speed and should
be used when more quiet operation is desired. Use the
9AUTO HI9setting when the quickest cool-down or
warm-up performance is desired.
NOTE:
²It is not necessary to move the temperature settings for
cold or hot vehicles. The system automatically adjusts
the temperature, mode and fan speed to provide
comfort as quickly as possible.
²The temperature can be displayed in U.S. or Metric by
selecting the US/M customer programmable feature.
Refer to the ªElectronic Vehicle Information Center-
Customer Programmable Featuresº in Section 3 of this
manual.
To provide you with maximum comfort in the automatic
mode, during cold start-ups the blower fan will remain
off and ªDELAYº will appear in the display until the
engine warms up. An estimate of the time remaining
until the ªDELAYº is complete will appear periodically
in the display. However, the fan will engage immediately
if the defrost mode is selected or by pushing the blower
switch and manually adjusting the fan speed.
This feature may be disabled using the following proce-
dure:
²Press and hold the Heated Rear Window and Auto LO
buttons for 5 seconds.
184 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
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NOTE:While operating in9AUTO HI9or9AUTO LO9,
the system will not automatically sense the presence fog,
mist, or ice on the windshield. The defrost button must be
pressed to clear the windshield and side glass.
Depress the ªA/Cº button to turn on and off the
air conditioning during manual operation only.
Cool dehumidified air comes through the outlets
selected by the Mode Control. To turn off the air condi-
tioning, press the A/C button a second time. The A/C
symbol in the display will turn off.
NOTE:If a fog or mist appears on the windshield or
side glass, press the ªA/Cº button to engage the com-
pressor or press the defrost button. If a fog or mist on the
windshield or side glass starts to impair visibility, press
the front blower button and increase the fan speed to
maximum.Recirculation Control
When the outside air contains smoke, odors,
high humidity, or if rapid cooling is desired
you may wish to recirculate interior air by
pressing the recirculation button. The recircu-
lation mode should only be used temporarily. The recir-
culate symbol will illuminate in the display when this
button is selected. Push the button a second time to allow
outside air into the vehicle.
NOTE:In cold weather, use of the recirculation mode
may lead to excessive window fogging. The recirculation
mode is not allowed in the Mix and Defrost modes to
improve window clearing operation. Recirculation will
be disabled automatically if these modes are selected.
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Use of the air Recirculation mode during winter months
is not recommended because it may cause window
fogging.
Vacation Storage
Anytime you store your vehicle, or keep it out of service
(i.e. vacation) for two weeks or more, run the air condi-
tioning system at idle for about five minutes in the fresh
air and high blower setting. This will insure adequate
system lubrication to minimize the possibility of com-
pressor damage when the system is started again.
Window Fogging
Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in mild rainy
or humid weather. To clear the windows, use the A/C
button to reduce the humidity inside the vehicle.
Fogging on the inside of the windshield can be quickly
removed by pressing the defrost button and increasing
the blower speed.Do not use the Recirculation mode without the A/C
button for long periods as fogging may occur.
Outside Air Intake
Before driving, always make sure the air intake located
directly in front of the windshield is free of obstructions
such as leaves, ice, or snow, which could reduce airflow
and/or plug the water drain tube inside the plenum.
A/C Air Filter
The climate control system filters out dust, pollen and
some odors from the air. Strong odors can not be totally
filtered out. Refer to section 7 ªAir Conditioningº for
filter replacement instructions.
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IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
In any of the following situations, you can reduce the
potential for overheating by taking the appropriate ac-
tion.
²On the highways Ð Slow down.
²In city traffic Ð While stopped, put transmission in
neutral, but do not increase engine idle speed.
NOTE:There are steps that you can take to slow down
an impending overheat condition. If your air conditioner
is on, turn it off. The air conditioning system adds heat to
the engine cooling system and turning off the A/C
removes this heat. You can also turn the Temperature
control to maximum heat, the Mode control to floor, and
the fan control to High. This allows the heater core to act
as a supplement to the radiator and aids in removing heat
from the engine cooling system.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If temperature gauge reads ªHº, pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the
air conditioner turned off until the pointer drops
back into the normal range. If the pointer remains on
the ªHº, turn the engine off immediately, and call for
service.
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Air Conditioner
For best possible performance, your air conditioner
should be checked and serviced by an Authorized Dealer
at the start of each warm season. This service should
include cleaning of the condenser fins and a system
performance check. Drive belt tension should also be
checked at this time.WARNING!
²Use only refrigerants approved by the manufac-
ture for your air conditioning system. Some un-
approved refrigerants are flammable and can ex-
plode, injuring you. Other unapproved
refrigerants can cause the system to fail, requiring
costly repairs.
²Never add air conditioning refrigerant to correct a
non-cooling problem unless pressure gauges are
connected to the system by a certified technician.
Lack of cooling could be due to a restriction and
adding refrigerant may cause a dangerous pres-
sure rise and you could be injured.
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Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling
The air conditioning system of your vehicle contains
R-134a, a refrigerant that does not deplete the ozone layer
in the upper atmosphere. The manufacture recommends
that air conditioning service be done by facilities using
refrigerant recycling and recovery equipment that meets
SAE standard J1991.
A/C Air Filter
The filter access door is located under the instrument
panel on the passenger side. To replace the filter slide the
lock toward the rear of the vehicle (unlock position).
Remove the access door and pull the filter downward.
When installing a new filter, ensure its proper orienta-
tion. Align the black arrow on the bottom of the filter
frame with the direction of airflow (away from the
blower motor and towards the center of the car).Refer to the ªMaintenance Schedulesº section of this
manual for the recommended air conditioning filter
replacement intervals.
Power Steering Ð Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined
service interval is not required. The fluid should only be
checked if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are
apparent, and/or the system is not functioning as antici-
pated. Coordinate inspection efforts through a certified
DaimlerChrysler Dealership.9
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VEHICLE STORAGE
If you are leaving your vehicle dormant for more than 21
days you may want to take steps to protect your battery.
You may:
²Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
²Anytime you store your vehicle, or keep it out of
service (i.e. vacation) for two weeks or more, run the
air conditioning system at idle for about five minutes
in the fresh air and high blower setting. This will
insure adequate system lubrication to minimize the
possibility of compressor damage when the system is
started again.
REPLACEMENT LIGHT BULBS
LIGHT BULBS Ð Interior Bulb Number
Center & Rear Reading Lights............... 578
Front Door Courtesy Light.................. 578
Liftgate Light(s).......................... 578
Overhead Console Reading Lights...........212±2
Visor Vanity Lights.....................V26377
NOTE:For lighted switches, see your dealer for replace-
ment instructions.
All of the interior bulbs are glass wedge base or glass
cartridge types. Aluminum base bulbs are not approved
and should not be used for replacement.
306 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE