2005 DODGE SPRINTER key

172 STARTING AND OPERATING
AUXILIARY DRIVE (OPTIONAL)1. Auxiliary drive
2. Ribbed V-belt (not part of factory package)
3. Tensioner pulley
4. Support
5. Unit (not part of factory package)
NOTE: When retrofitting a unit pay attention to the
running direction of the engine.
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, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns,
following another vehicle too closely, 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 jeopardize the user’s safety
or the safety of others.If the vehicle is to be towed away with the front
wheels clear of the ground, or if the brakes are to be
tested on a brake dynamometer, do not put the key
in position 2 in the ignition lock because the ESP
would engage the brakes to stabilize the vehicle.If the ESP function is used for a prolonged period
of time, the rear axle brakes may fail due to
overheating.

STARTING AND OPERATING 183
5
BLEEDING DIESEL FUEL SYSTEMIf the fuel tank was run empty, the diesel fuel system
must be bled after refueling before starting the engine.– Turn the key in the ignition lock to position 2 for at
least 30 seconds.– Return the key to position 0.– Start the engine three to four times.
The malfunction indicator light (MIL) ± must go
out.
NOTE: Too many attempts to start the engine could
drain the battery. If the engine does not start after
several attempts, consult an authorized Sprinter
Dealer.
WARNING!
Possible tire damage resulting in serious personal
injury or death may occur if the vehicle’s electron-
ic speed controller is programmed at a speed
above the maximum speed allowed by the manu-
facturer of the specific tires mounted on the vehi-
cle. The maximum speed of the tires prescribed by
the tire manufacturer must be determined and ac-
curately programmed into the electronic speed
controller. The electronic speed controller must
never be programmed at a speed greater than the
maximum allowable tire speed as prescribed by
the manufacturer of the specific tires mounted on
the vehicle.

184 STARTING AND OPERATINGDRAINING FUEL FILTER WITH WATER
SEPARATOR1. Fuel filter
2. Drain hose
3. Water drain screw
The fuel filter (1) is located in the engine compartment.
NOTE: The fuel filter must be drained as soon as the
water in fuel indicator lamp lights up. NOTE:
Prior to opening water drain screw (3), place a
suitable receptacle underneath the drain hose (2). Turn
water drain screw (3) on and off only by hand.
Diesel fuels and diesel fuel mixtures must be disposed
of properly; we recommend water be drained from fuel
filters by an authorized Sprinter Dealer.
Draining Fuel Filter
 Stop the engine.
 Shift gear selector lever to ‘‘P’’ position.
Open the hood.
 Place a suitable receptacle underneath the drain hose (2).
 Turn the key in the ignition lock to position 2.
CAUTION!
Delaying draining of the fuel filter for a
considerable time after the indicator lamp lights
up may lead to engine damage.

STARTING AND OPERATING 185
5
 Open immediately the water drain screw (3) about 1 turn (counterclockwise) until fluid emerges. Ensure
that the fluid is collected in the receptacle.
 Close the water drain screw (3) as soon as about 0.25 US qt (0.2 liters) are emerged.
 After draining, return the key in the ignition lock to position 0.
 Dispose of the collected fluid in an environmentally responsible manner.
 If the filter is still saturated, drain the filter once more.
After draining, the engine may run briefly but stall for
lack of fuel. If this occurs, bleed the system.
NOTE: Should the water in the fuel indicator lamp
still not go out after the fuel filter has been drained
twice, the cause should be examined by an authorized
Sprinter Dealer.
Bleeding the Diesel Fuel SystemThe diesel fuel system must be bled before starting the
engine.
 Turn the key in the ignition lock position 2 for at
least 30 seconds.
 Return the key to position 0.
 Start the engine three to four times. The engine control unit indicator lamp ± must go out.
NOTE: Too many attempts to start the engine could
drain the battery. If the engine does not start after
several attempts, consult an authorized Sprinter
Dealer.

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 211
6
TOWING THE VEHICLE
*Vehicle Type 2500 only
WARNING!
Do not tow the vehicle if the key cannot be turned
in the ignition lock.
If the key cannot be turned, the ignition lock re-
mains locked and the vehicle cannot be steered.
With the engine not running there is no power
assistance for the braking and steering systems.
In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a
considerably higher degree of effort is necessary
to brake and steer the vehicle.
The vehicle must not be towed with the front axle
raised and the key in position 2 in the ignition
lock as the drive wheels could then lock due to the
acceleration skid control (ASR) or the optional
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
*.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 225
7
Open the hood.
 At first, only turn the radiator cap to the first detent to release the pressure from the cooling system.
Only then should the radiator cap be removed
completely.
 To add coolant: If the engine is cold:
Add coolant until the coolant level reaches the base
area which is visible through the filler opening (area
moistened).
WARNING!
In order to avoid any possibly serious burns:
 If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant
temperature gauge indicates that the engine is
overheated, do not open the hood. Move away
from the vehicle and do not open the hood until
the engine has cooled. If necessary, call the fire
department.
 Do not remove pressure cap on coolant reservoir if engine temperature is above 194 °F (+90 ×C).
A l l o w e n g i n e t o c o o l do w n b e f o r e r e m o v i ng c a p .
The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is
under pressure.
 Using a rag, slowly open cap approximately 1/2 turn to relieve excess pressure. If opened
immediately, scalding hot fluid and steam will
be blown out under pressure.
WARNING!
Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Anti-freeze contains ethylene glycol which may burn
if it comes into contact with hot engine parts.
 Check coolant level only with the engine switched off and the key in position 0 in the
ignition lock.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 227
7
BATTERIESThe standard battery is located in the engine
compartment. The auxiliary battery is lo
cated underneath the front
passenger seat (optional equipment).
The battery will not achieve its maximum service life
unless it is kept adequately charged at all times. If the
vehicle is used primarily for short distances, or left
parked for lengthy periods, have the battery charge
checked more frequently.
Disconnecting the Battery
WARNING!
Failure to follow these instructions can result in
severe personal injuries and death.
Never lean over batteries while connecting, you
might get injured, if the battery explodes.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow
this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or
clothing. In case it does, immediately flush
affected area with water and seek medical help if
necessary.
A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which
is flammable and explosive. Keep flames or
sparks away from battery, avoid improper
connection of jumper cables, smoking etc.
Use only impact-resistant batteries with a central
gas release cover to prevent corrosion damage and
to prevent occupants from caustic burns in the
event of an accident.
CAUTION!
Do not loosen or remove the battery terminal
clamps while the engine is running or the key is in
the ignition lock as this could damage electrical or
electronic equipment beyond repair. All electrical
consumers must be switched off.
Do not place any metal objects on the battery.
Doing so may cause a short-circuit.
Loosen and remove the negative terminal clamp
first, then the positive terminal.
Afterwards disconnect vent tube from the fitting.

236 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLEWiper BladeClean the wiper blade rubber with a clean cloth and
detergent solution.
Light Alloy WheelsA wheel care product should be used for regular
cleaning of the light alloy wheels.
If possible, clean wheels once a week, using a soft
bristle brush and a strong spray of water.
Follow instructions on container.
NOTE: Use only acid-free cleaning materials. The acid
could lead to corrosion.Instrument ClusterUse a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent
for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a
cloth moistened in lukewarm solution. Do not use
scouring agents.Steering Wheel and Gear Selector LeverWipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean
with a leather care product.
WARNING!
For safety reasons, remove key from ignition lock
before cleaning the windshield, otherwise the
wiper motor can suddenly turn on and cause in-
jury.
Dirty or iced-up steps create a risk of slipping or
falling. Do not use the step in the front bumper
when it is icy or dirty.
WARNING!
For safety reasons, remove key from ignition lock
before cleaning the wiper blade, otherwise the
wiper motor can suddenly turn on and cause se-
vere personal injuries and death.