2005 CHRYSLER 300 SRT window

The operator can override the AUTO mode setting and
select the direction of the air by rotating the right mode
knob to one of the following positions.
•Defrost
Air is directed to the windshield through the
outlets at the base of the windshield. Air is
also directed to the front door windows through the
side window demister grilles.
•
Defrost/Floor
Air flows through the front and rear floor
outlets and the outlets at the base of the
windshield. Air is also directed to the front
door windows through the side window demister
grilles.
•
Floor
Air flows through the floor outlets located
under the instrument panel and into the rear
seating area through vents under the front seats.
•
Bi-Level
Air flows both through the outlets located in
the instrument panel and those located on thefloor. Air flows through the registers in the back of
the center console to the rear seat passengers. These
registers can be closed to block airflow.
•
Panel
Air flows through the outlets located in the
instrument panel. Air flows through the regis-
ters in the back of the center console to the rear seat
passengers. These registers can be closed to block
airflow.
Depress this button to turn on and off the air
conditioning during manual operation only. Con-
ditioned outside air is then directed through the
outlets selected on the mode control dial. The button
includes an LED that illuminates when manual operation
is selected, and will cause an audible beep.
NOTE:To manually control the air conditioning the
mode selector must be moved out of the AUTO position.
Press this button to turn on the rear window
defroster and the heated side mirrors (if
equipped). An LED in the button will illuminate and an
audible beep indicates that the rear window defroster is
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 175
4

ON. The defroster automatically turns off after approxi-
mately 10 minutes of operation for the first push of the
button, and will turn off after approximately 5 minutes
for the second push of the button.
CAUTION!
To avoid damaging the electrical conductors of the
rear window defroster, do not use scrapers, sharp
instruments, or abrasive window cleaners on the
interior surface of the window.
Labels can be peeled off after soaking with warm
water.
This button can be used to block out smoke,
odors, dust, high humidity, or if rapid cooling
is desired. The recirculation mode should only
be used temporarily. The button includes an
LED that illuminates, and an audible beep indicates that
the recirculation mode is active. You may use this feature
separately.
NOTE:Extended use of recirculation may cause the
windows to fog. If the interior of the windows begins to
fog, press the “Recirculate” icon button to return to
outside air. Some temp./humidity conditions will cause
captured interior air to condense on windows and ham-
per visibility. For this reason, the system will not allow
“Recirculate” to be selected while in the defrost or
defrost/floor modes. Attempting to use the recirculation
while in these modes will cause the LED in the button to
blink and then turn off.
Summer Operation
The engine cooling system in air conditioned vehicles
must be protected with a high-quality antifreeze coolant
to provide proper corrosion protection and to protect
against engine overheating. A 50% solution of ethylene
glycol antifreeze coolant in water is recommended. Refer
to section 7, Maintenance Procedures, of this manual for
proper coolant selection.
176 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Winter Operation
Use of the air Recirculation mode during winter months
is not recommended because it may cause window
fogging.
NOTE:See Operating Tips chart (for Manual A/C
Control) at the end of this section for suggested control
settings in different weather conditions.
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
Interior fogging on the windshield can be quickly re-
moved by turning the mode selector to Defrost. The
Defrost/Floor mode can be used to maintain a clear
windshield and provide sufficient heating. If side win-
dow fogging becomes a problem increase blower speed.
Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in mild but
rainy or humid weather.
NOTE:Recirculate without A/C should not be used for
long periods as fogging may occur.
Outside Air Intake
Make sure the air intake, located directly in front of the
windshield, is free of obstructions such as leaves. Leaves
collected in the air intake may reduce airflow and if they
enter the plenum they could plug the water drains. In
winter months make sure the air intake is clear of ice,
slush and snow.
A/C Air Filter — If Equipped
The climate control system filters outside air containing
dust, pollen and some odors. Strong odors cannot be
totally filtered out. Refer to “Maintenance Procedures” in
your Owner’s Manual for filter replacement instructions.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 177
4

After Starting
The idle speed will automatically decrease as the engine
warms up.
TRANSMISSION SHIFTING
5 Speed Automatic Transmission
WARNING!
Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure
those in and near the vehicle. As with all vehicles,
you should never exit a vehicle while the engine is
running. Before exiting a vehicle you should shift
the transmission into Park, remove the key from the
ignition, and apply the park brake. Once the key is
removed from the ignition the transmission shift
lever is locked in the Park position, securing the
vehicle against unwanted movement. Furthermore,
you should never leave children unattended inside a
vehicle. The following indicators should be used to
ensure that you have engaged the transmission shift
lever into the “Park” position:
•When shifting into Park move the lever all the
way forward until it stops, and is fully seated.
•Look at the shift indicator window on the console
to ensure it is in the “P” position.Gear Selector
STARTING AND OPERATING 183
5

To release the parking brake, pull out on the parking
brake release located on the left side of the instrument
panel.
When parking on a hill, it is important to set the parking
brake before placing the gear selector in Park, otherwise
the load on the transmission locking mechanism may
make it difficult to move the selector out of park. As an
added precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb
on a downhill grade and away from the curb on a uphill
grade.The parking brake should always be applied when the
driver is not in the vehicle.
WARNING!
•Leaving children in a vehicle unattended is dan-
gerous for a number of reasons. A child or others
could be injured. Children should be warned not
to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the
gear selector lever. Don’t leave the keys in the
ignition. A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.
•Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged
before driving: failure to do so can lead to brake
failure, and an accident.
Parking Brake Release
192 STARTING AND OPERATING

Fuel system damage or vehicle performance problems
resulting from the use of such fuels or additives are not
the responsibility of the manufacturer.
NOTE:Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.
Carbon Monoxide Warnings
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is deadly.
Follow the precautions below to prevent carbon
monoxide poisoning:
•Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain carbon
monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas which can kill.
Never run the engine in a closed area, such as a
garage, and never sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running for an extended period. If the vehicle is
stopped in an open area with the engine running for
more than a short period, adjust the ventilation system
to force fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
•Guard against carbon monoxide with proper mainte-
nance. Have the exhaust system inspected every time
the vehicle is raised. Have any abnormal conditions
repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive with all side
windows fully open.
•Keep the trunk closed when driving your vehicle to
prevent carbon monoxide and other poisonous ex-
haust gases from entering the vehicle.
STARTING AND OPERATING 217
5

solvents, detergents, or ammonia based cleaners to clean
your leather upholstery. Application of a leather condi-
tioner is not required to maintain the original condition.
WARNING!
Do not use volatile solvents for cleaning purposes.
Many are potentially flammable, and if used in
closed areas they may cause respiratory harm.
Glass Surfaces
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis
with any commercial household-type glass cleaner.
Never use an abrasive type cleaner. Use caution when
cleaning the inside rear window equipped with electric
defrosters and radio antenna. Do not use scrapers or
other sharp instruments which may scratch the elements.
When cleaning the rear view mirror, spray cleaner on the
towel or rag that you are using. Do not spray cleaner
directly on the mirror.
Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in this vehicle are
molded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, care
must be taken to avoid scratching the plastic.
1. Clean with a wet soft rag. A mild soap solution may be
used, but do not use high alcohol content or abrasive
cleaners. If soap is used, wipe clean with a clean damp
rag.
2. Dry with a soft tissue.
Seat Belt Maintenance
Do not bleach, dye or clean the belts with chemical
solvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the fabric.
Sun damage can also weaken the fabric.
If the belts need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or
lukewarm water. Do not remove the belts from the car to
wash them.
Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the
buckles do not work properly.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 263
7

ABS (Anti-Lock Brake) System............. 193
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)......... 253
Adding Fuel.......................... 218
Adding Washer Fluid..............104,106,251
Additives, Fuel........................ 216
Adjustable Pedals....................... 94
Air Conditioner Maintenance.............. 248
Air Conditioning Filter................177,249
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips........... 178
Air Conditioning Refrigerant.............. 249
Air Pressure, Tires...................... 206
Airbag................................ 35
Airbag Deployment....................40,45
Airbag Light....................40,47,57,135
Airbag Maintenance...................... 47
Airbag, Side........................... 44
Airbag, Window......................36,44
Alarm System.......................... 22
Alignment and Balance.................. 210
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle............ 7
Antenna, Satellite Radio.................. 165
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)............253,275
Disposal............................ 255Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)............. 193
Anti-Lock Warning Light................. 135
Anti-Theft Security Alarm................. 22
Appearance Care....................... 260
Auto Down Power Windows............... 24
Auto Up Power Windows................. 24
Automatic Dimming Mirror................ 63
Automatic Door Locks.................... 17
Automatic Headlights................... 100
Automatic Temperature Control............ 171
Automatic Transmission............183,259,260
Adding Fluid.....................260,276
Fluid and Filter Changes................ 260
Fluid Change........................ 260
Fluid Level Check..................... 259
Fluid Type.......................... 276
Autostick..........................185,190
Ball Joints............................ 250
Battery............................... 247
Jump Starting........................ 229
Keyless Transmitter Replacement.......... 21
Location.........................230,247
304 INDEX