2005 CHRYSLER CROSSFIRE SRT maintenance

Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded fuel
only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effectiveness of the
catalyst as an emission control device.
Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic con-
verter will not require maintenance. However, it is im-
portant to keep the engine properly serviced to assure
proper catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst
damage.
If the CHECK ENGINE light is flashing, immediate
service is required.CAUTION!
Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your
vehicle is not kept in proper operating condition. In
the event of engine malfunction, particularly involv-
ing engine misfire or other apparent loss of perfor-
mance, have your vehicle serviced promptly. Contin-
ued operation of your vehicle with a severe
malfunction could cause the converter to overheat,
resulting in possible damage to the converter and the
vehicle.
WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park over
materials that can burn. Such materials might be
grass or leaves coming into contact with your ex-
haust system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in
areas where your exhaust system can contact any-
thing that can burn.
200 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop
the vehicle, turn off the engine and allow it to cool.
Service, including a tune up to DaimlerChrysler Corpo-
ration’s specifications, should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalyst damage:
•Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition
when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
•Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the
vehicle.
•Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires
disconnected for a prolonged period.
Ignition Wiring System
The ignition cables should be kept clean and properly
connected. Terminals should be fully seated. Cracked,
damaged, or faulty cables should be replaced.
Crankcase Emission Control System
Proper operation of this system depends on freedom
from sticking or plugging due to deposits.
Check ventilation hose for indication of damage or
plugging deposits. Replace if necessary.
Maintenance-Free Battery
The top of the maintenance-free battery is permanently
sealed. You will never have to add water, nor is periodic
maintenance required.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 201
7

Chassis Lubrication
Front Suspension Ball Joints
There are two front suspension lower ball joints that are
permanently lubricated. Inspect these ball joints when-
ever under-vehicle service is done.
Steering Linkage
Inspect tie rod ends whenever the vehicle is serviced.
They are permanently lubricated and do not require
periodic lubrication.
Drive Shaft Universal Joints
Your vehicle has four constant velocity universal joints.
Periodic lubrication of these joints is not required. How-
ever, the joint boots should be inspected for external
leakage or damage when other maintenance is per-
formed.
If leakage or damage is evident, replace the universal
joint boot and grease immediately.
Continued operation could result in failure of the univer-
sal joint due to water and dirt contamination of the
grease. This would require complete replacement of the
joint assembly.
Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as
seat tracks, doors, and rear liftgate / decklid hinges,
should be lubricated periodically to assure quiet, easy
operation and to protect against rust and wear.
Hood Latch
When performing other under hood services, the hood
latch release mechanism and safety catch should be
inspected, cleaned, and lubricated.
204 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Cooling System
WARNING!
•When working near the radiator cooling fan, dis-
connect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition
switch to the OFF position. The fan is temperature
controlled and can start at any time the ignition
key is in the ON position.
•You or others can be badly burned by hot coolant
or steam from your radiator. If you see or hear
steam coming from under the hood, don’t open
the hood until the radiator has had time to cool.
Never try to open a cooling system pressure cap
when the radiator is hot.
Coolant Checks
Check coolant protection every 12 months (before the
onset of freezing weather, where applicable). If the cool-
ant is dirty or rusty in appearance, the system should be
drained, flushed and refilled with fresh coolant.Check the front of the radiator and condenser for an
accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. Clean the radiator and
condenser by gently spraying water from a garden hose
at the back of the radiator core.
Check the recovery bottle tank tubing for condition and
tightness of connection at the bottle and radiator. Inspect
the entire system for leaks.
Cooling System - Drain, Flush and Refill
At the intervals shown on the Maintenance Schedules,
the system should be drained, flushed and refilled.
208 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and
possibly an accident. Driving with your foot resting
or riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally
high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and
possible brake damage. You wouldn’t have your full
braking capacity in an emergency.
Brake and Power Steering System Hoses
When servicing the vehicle for scheduled maintenance,
inspect surface of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence of
heat and mechanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber,
cracking, checking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive
swelling suggest deterioration of the rubber. Particular
attention should be made to examining those hose sur-
faces nearest to high heat sources, such as the exhaust
manifold.
Inspect all hose clamps and couplings to make sure they
are secure and no leaks are present.
Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or
collapsed.
NOTE:Often, fluids such as oil, power steering fluid,
and brake fluid are used during assembly plant opera-
tions to ease the assembly of hoses to couplings. There-
fore, oil wetness at the hose-coupling area is not neces-
sarily an indication of leakage. Actual dripping of hot
fluid when systems are under pressure (during vehicle
operation) should be noted before a hose is replaced
based on leakage.
NOTE:Inspection of brake hoses should be done
whenever the brake system is serviced and at every
engine oil change.
WARNING!
Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure.
You could have an accident. If you see any signs of
cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, have the brake
hoses replaced immediately.
212 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE:Refer to Section 8 of this manual for Mainte-
nance Schedules.
Appearance Care and Protection from Corrosion
Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion
Vehicle body protection requirements vary according to
geographic locations and usage. Chemicals that make
roads passable in snow and ice, and those that are
sprayed on trees and road surfaces during other seasons,
are highly corrosive to the metal in your vehicle. Outside
parking, which exposes your vehicle to airborne contami-
nants, road surfaces on which the vehicle is operated,
extreme hot or cold weather and other extreme condi-
tions will have an adverse effect on paint, metal trim, and
underbody protection.
The following maintenance recommendations will enable
you to obtain maximum benefit from the corrosion
resistance built into your vehicle.
What Causes Corrosion?
Corrosion is the result of deterioration or removal of
paint and protective coatings from your vehicle.
The most common causes are:
•Road salt, dirt and moisture accumulation
•Stone and gravel impact
•Insects, tree sap and tar
•Salt in the air near seacoast localities
•Atmospheric fallout/industrial pollutants
•Bird droppings
Washing
•
Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your ve-
hicle in the shade using a mild car wash soap, and
rinse the panels completely with clear water.
•If insects, tar or other similar deposits have accumu-
lated on your vehicle, wash it as soon as possible.
•Use Moparauto polish to remove road film and
stains and to polish your vehicle. Take care never to
scratch the paint.
•Avoid using abrasive compounds and power buffing
that may diminish the gloss or thin out the paint
finish.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 215
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Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in the vehicle are
molded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, care
must be taken to avoid scratching the plastic.
•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.
•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.
If the belts need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or
lukewarm water. Do not remove the belts from the
vehicle to wash them.
Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the
buckles do not work properly.
CONVERTIBLE TOP CARE
CAUTION!
Due not use sharp-edged instruments to remove
snow or ice from the soft top.
NOTE:Place a suitable cover over the top if you are
going to park the vehicle outside for a extended period of
time.
Immediate removal of any contaminant is recommended.
Regular washing of the top will enhance its life and
appearance, and make successive cleanings easier. Do not
subject the top to excessive heat. Frequently vacuum the
top and cargo compartment divider.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 219
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MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
CONTENTS

Introduction..........................240

Warranty............................240

Emission Control System Maintenance......241

Maintenance Schedules..................241
▫Scope Of Work For“A”Schedule Maintenance
Service.............................242
▫Scope Of Work For“B”Schedule Maintenance
Service.............................243

FSS System...........................244

Regular Check-Ups.....................246
▫Additional Periodic Maintenance..........247

Special Maintenance Requirements.........248
▫Coolant............................248
▫Dust Filter For Heating/Ventilation
Replacement.........................248

Engine Oil Change And Filter Replacement...2488
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