With the ABS malfunctioning, the BAS and ESP will be
disabled. In this condition, both malfunction indicator
lights come on while the engine is running. If the
malfunction indicator light stays illuminated, have the
BAS and ESP checked at your authorized dealer as soon
as possible.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
The ESP enhances directional control and reduces wheel-
spin under various driving conditions. When ESP is
active, engine torque is limited and the ESP warning light
starts to flash.In winter operation, the effectiveness of the ESP can be
enhanced by equipping the vehicle with DaimlerChrysler
recommended mud and snow (M+S) rated radial-ply
tires and/or snow chains.
WARNING!
ESP cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the traction
afforded. The ESP cannot prevent accidents, includ-
ing those resulting from excessive speed in turns, or
hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful
driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an
ESP equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a
reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopar-
dize the user’s safety or the safety of others.
The ESP warning light starts to flash at any vehicle speed
as soon as the tires lose traction and the wheels begin to
spin.
146 STARTING AND OPERATING
To return to the enhanced vehicle stability offered by ESP,
press the lower half of the switch (the ESP warning light
goes out).
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
The ABS gives increased vehicle stability and brake
performance under most braking conditions. The system
automatically “pumps” the brakes during severe braking
conditions to prevent wheel lock-up. The system operates
to prevent wheel lock-up and help avoid skidding on
slippery surfaces.
NOTE:The ABS improves steering control of the ve-
hicle during hard braking maneuvers.
The ABS prevents the wheels from locking up above a
vehicle speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h)
independent of road surface conditions.
At the instant one of the wheels is about to lock up, a
slight pulsation can be felt in the brake pedal, indicat-
ing that the ABS is in the regulating mode.
Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal
while experiencing the pulsation. Continuous, steadybrake pedal pressure results in optimal braking power
while maintaining the ability to steer the vehicle.
In the case of an emergency brake maneuver, keep
continuous full pressure on the brake pedal. In this
manner only can the ABS be most effective.
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even
with light brake pedal pressure because of the in-
creased likelihood of locking wheels. The pulsating
brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road
conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra
care while driving.WARNING!
Significant over- or under-inflation of tires, or mix-
ing sizes of front or rear tires or wheels on the
vehicle can reduce braking effectiveness. Maintain
proper tire pressure and always use the tires and
wheels specified in this manual for your vehicle.
STARTING AND OPERATING 149
5
The anti-lock brake system conducts a low-speed self-test
at about 12 mph (20 km/h). If you have your foot lightly
on the brake while this test is occurring, you may feel
slight pedal movement. The movement can be more
apparent on ice and snow. The anti-lock brake system
pump motor makes a low humming noise during opera-
tion, which is normal.
WARNING!
Pumping of the brake pedal will diminish the effec-
tiveness of the anti-lock brakes and may lead to an
accident. Pumping makes the stopping distance
longer. Just press firmly on your brake pedal when
you need to slow down or stop.
NOTE:During severe braking conditions, a pulsing
sensation may occur and a clicking noise will be heard.
This is normal, indicating that the anti-lock brake system
is functioning.The ABS malfunction indicator light in the instrument
cluster comes on with the key in the ignition switch
turned to the ON/RUN position, and should go out with
the engine running. If the ABS light does not illuminate
briefly during this procedure, or remains on after the
engine is running, have the system checked by an autho-
rized dealer.
150 STARTING AND OPERATING
When the ABS malfunction indicator light in the instru-
ment cluster comes on while the engine is running, it
indicates that the ABS has detected a malfunction and has
switched off. In this case, the brake system functions in
the usual manner, but without antilock assistance. With
the ABS malfunctioning, the BAS and ESP are also
switched off. Both malfunction indicator lights come on
with the engine running. If the charging voltage falls
below 10 volts, the malfunction indicator light comes on
and the ABS is switched off. When the voltage is above
this value again, the malfunction indicator light should
go out and the ABS is operational. If the malfunction
indicator light stays illuminated, have the system
checked at your authorized dealer as soon as possible.WARNING!
ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or
steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the con-
dition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction
afforded. The ABS cannot prevent accidents, includ-
ing those resulting from excessive speed in turns,
following another vehicle too closely, or hydroplan-
ing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can
prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ABS-
equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reck-
less or dangerous manner which could jeopardize
the user’s safety or the safety of others.
STARTING AND OPERATING 151
5
WARNING!
Cuts or punctures larger than approximately 0.16 in.
(4 mm), tire damage caused by driving with ex-
tremely low tire pressure or on a flat tire, or a
damaged wheel can pose a hazard while driving.
TIREFIT should not be used in such circumstances.
Do not drive the vehicle under such circumstances.
Contact your nearest authorized dealer for assistance.
Take care not to allow the contents of TIREFIT to
come in contact with hair, eyes or clothing. TIREFIT
is harmful if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed
through the skin: It causes skin, eye and respiratory
irritation. Any contact with eyes or skin should be
flushed immediately with plenty of water. If cloth-
ing comes in contact with TIREFIT, change clothing
as soon as possible.
In case of allergic reaction or rash, consult a physician
immediately. Keep TIREFIT out of reach of children.
If swallowed, rinse mouth immediately with plenty
of water and drink plenty of water. Do not induce
vomiting! Consult a physician immediately.
Keep away from open flame or heat source.
Sealing tire with TIREFIT
1. Set the parking brake and turn on the hazard warning
flashers.
2. Move the transmission selector lever to the PARK
position (manual transmission to FIRST or REVERSE
gear) and turn off the engine.
3. Remove the TIREFIT kit and electric air pump from
the area below the cargo compartment carpet.
4. Open flap (2) on the electric air pump.
5. Pull the power plug (4) and air hose (5) along with the
pressure gauge out of the air pump housing.
6. Screw the air hose (5) onto the hose connection on the
TIREFIT sealant bottle (1).
7. Holding the sealant bottle by the top, insert it down-
wards into the recess (3) on the air pump.
8. Unscrew the valve cap from the valve on the deflated
tire.
9. Screw the filler hose from the sealant bottle on the tire
valve.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 175
6
Wet Cleaning
Wash with clear water or with a mild detergent and an
ample supply of luke warm water by wiping with a
soft-bristled brush or sponge from front to rear. Then
rinse thoroughly with clear water.
Allow the top to dry before lowering. Vacuuming the top
with a wet/dry shop vacuum will decrease the top’s
drying time, ensure removal of all dirt, and delete streaks
in the material. Multiple cleanings may be necessary to
remove stubborn stains. If stains persist, contact your
local dealership for further suggestions.
Weather Strip Care
Lubricate all top and door glass weather strips periodi-
cally with Mopar Weather Strip Lubricant (part number
4773427), to keep them soft and pliable.
FUSES
Underhood Accessory Fuse Block Fuses
The underhood accesseory fuse block fuses are located
under the hood on the driver’s side, between the brake
master cylinder and the left front fender.
To remove the lid, squeeze the tabs together located at the
front of the fusebox. Then lift the lid up by the tabs. The
lid will then slide off the top of the fuse box. To replace
the lid, place the two hinge-like tabs at the rear of the lid
under the tabs on the fusebox. Push down on the front of
the lid until the tabs at the front click.
228 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
4. Realign the two tabs and push the light in until it
engages into the lock.
Tail, Stop, Back Up and Turn Signal Lights
1. Open the rear liftgate / decklid and remove the access
door in the trim panel.
2. Twist the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull out.3. Replace the light and return to open socket, turn
clockwise until it stops.
4. Replace the access door in the trim panel.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 237
7
Customer Assistance For The Hearing Or Speech
Impaired (TDD/TTY)
To assist customers who have hearing difficulties, the
DaimlerChrysler Corporation has installed special
TDD (Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf) equip-
ment at its Customer Center. Any hearing or speech
impaired customer who has access to a TDD or a
conventional teletypewriter (TTY) in the United States
can communicate with the DaimlerChrysler Corpora-
tion by dialing 1-800-380-CHRY.
Service Contract
You may have purchased a service contract for your
vehicle to help protect you from the high cost of
unexpected repairs after your DaimlerChrysler Corpo-
ration’s new vehicle limited warranty expires. The
DaimlerChrysler Corporation stands behind only the
DaimlerChrysler Corporation’s Service Contracts. If
you purchased a DaimlerChrysler Corporation Service
Contract, you will receive Plan Provisions and an
Owner Identification Card in the mail within three
weeks of your vehicle delivery date. If you have any
questions about your service contract, call theDaimlerChrysler Corporation Service Contract Na-
tional Customer Hotline at 1-800-521-9922.
The DaimlerChrysler Corporation will not stand behind
any service contract that is not the DaimlerChrysler
Corporation’s Service Contract. It is not responsible for
any service contract other than the DaimlerChrysler
Corporation’s Service Contract. If you purchased a ser-
vice contract that is not a DaimlerChrysler Corporation
Service Contract, and you require service after your
DaimlerChrysler Corporation’s new vehicle limited war-
ranty expires, please refer to your contract documents,
and contact the person listed in those documents.
We appreciate that you have made a major investment
when you purchased your new Crossfire. Your dealer has
also made a major investment in facilities, tools, and
training to assure that you are absolutely delighted with
your ownership experience. You’ll be pleased with their
sincere efforts to resolve any warranty issues or related
concerns.
260 IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE