2006 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER check oil

•Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition
when the transaxle 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 prolonged period.
Engine Timing Belt
Replace the engine timing belt at the intervals described
in the appropriate maintenance schedule.
Crankcase Emission Control System
Proper operation of this system depends on freedom
from sticking or plugging due to deposits. As vehicle
mileage builds up, the PCV valve and passages may
accumulate deposits. If a valve is not working properly,
replace it with a new valve. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO
CLEAN THE OLD PCV VALVE!Check ventilation hose for indication of damage or
plugging deposits. Replace if necessary.
Fuel Filter
A plugged fuel filter can cause hard starting or limit the
speed at which a vehicle can be driven. Should an
excessive amount of dirt accumulate in the fuel tank,
frequent filter replacement may be necessary. The fuel
filters are located inside the fuel tank. See your dealer for
service.
Air Cleaner Element (Filter)
Under normal driving conditions, replace the filter at the
intervals shown on Schedule “A”. If, however, you drive
the vehicle frequently under dusty or severe conditions,
the filter element should be inspected periodically and
replaced if necessary at the intervals shown on Schedule
“B”.
NOTE:For vehicles with a Turbo engine, a small
amount of oil accumulation in the air cleaner box is
374 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling
R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluorocar-
bon (HFC) that is endorsed by the Environmental Pro-
tection Agency and is an ozone-saving product. How-
ever, the manufacturer recommends that air conditioning
service be performed by dealers or other service facilities
using recovery and recycling equipment.
NOTE:Use only manufacturer approved A/C System
Sealers, Stop Leak Products, Seal Conditioners, Compres-
sor Oil, or Refrigerants.
Power Steering — 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.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and
with the engine off to prevent injury from moving
parts and to insure accurate fluid level reading. Do
not overfill. Use only manufacturers recommended
power steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all
surfaces. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts
for correct fluid types.
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. Damaged seals and
their corresponding potentially damaged ball joints must
be replaced.
378 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE:Inspection of brake hoses should be done when-
ever 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.
Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under hood services, or immediately if
the brake system warning lamp is on.
Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area before
removing the cap. If necessary, add fluid to bring the
fluid level up to the requirements described on the brakefluid reservoir. Fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake pads wear. Brake fluid level should be checked
when pads are replaced. However, low fluid level may be
caused by a leak and a checkup may be needed.
NOTE:If your vehicle is equipped with amanual
transaxle, the Brake Fluid Reservoir supplies fluid to
both the Brake System and the Clutch Release System.
The two systems are separated in the reservoir and a leak
in one system will not affect the other system. The
Manual TransaxleClutch Release System should not
require fluid replacement during the life of the vehicle. If
the Brake Fluid Reservoir is low, and the brake system
does not indicate any leaks or other problems, it may be
a result of a leak in the Hydraulic Clutch Release System.
See your local authorized dealer for service.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 389
7

At Each Stop for Fuel
•Check the engine oil level about 5 minutes after a fully
warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level while
the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accu-
racy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when the
level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and add if
required.
Once a Month
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
•Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the terminals
as required.
•Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder and transaxle and add as needed.
•Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
•Check rubber seals on each side of the radiator for
proper fit.
At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Inspect the exhaust system.
•Inspect the brake hoses.
•Inspect the CV joints and front suspension compo-
nents.
•Check the automatic transaxle fluid level.
•Check the manual transaxle fluid level and fill plug
condition.
•Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
418 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Emergency Deck Lid Release Latch (Convertible) . . 41
Emergency, In Case of
Jacking............................. 346
Jump Starting......................... 351
Towing ............................. 355
Emergency Seat Back Release (Sedan).......... 40
Emission Control System Maintenance......365,416
Engine............................362,363
Break-In Recommendations............... 113
Checking Oil Level..................... 368
Cooling ............................. 382
Exhaust Gas Caution.................... 325
Fuel Requirements..................... 322
Jump Starting......................... 351
Oil ...........................368,411,412
Oil Change Interval.................... 369
Oil Filler Cap...................362,363,370
OilFilter ............................ 412
Oil Selection.......................... 370Oil Synthetic......................... 371
Overheating.......................... 344
Temperature Gauge..................... 222
TimingBelt .......................... 374
Event Data Recorder................... 70,103
Exhaust Gas Caution.............. 39,114,325,381
Exhaust System......................... 381
Filler Location Fuel...................... 222
Filters
Air Cleaner.......................... 374
Engine Fuel.......................... 374
Engine Oil........................371,412
Flashers.............................. 344
Hazard Warning....................... 344
Flat Tire Stowage........................ 351
Flooded Engine Starting................... 281
Fluid, Brake........................... 413
Fluid Capacities......................... 411
452 INDEX

Dimmer Switch, Headlight............... 181
Engine Temperature Warning.............. 226
Fog ..........................183,227,409
Front Replacement..................... 408
Headlight Switch...................... 182
Headlights........................... 182
High Beam Indicator.................... 228
Instrument Cluster..................... 182
Interior............................. 180
Lights On Reminder.................... 182
Low Fuel............................ 227
Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine)........ 224
Map Reading......................178,179
Oil Pressure.......................... 227
Rear Servicing........................ 410
Seat Belt Reminder..................... 226
Security Alarm (Theft Alarm).............. 36
Service.............................. 408
Theft Alarm (Security Alarm).............. 226Traction Control....................... 301
Turn Signal..................181,183,224,409
Voltage............................. 226
Warning (Instrument Cluster Description)..... 222
Loading Vehicle......................... 329
Tires ............................... 307
Locks
Child Protection........................ 23
Door................................ 18
Power Door........................... 20
Steering Wheel......................... 18
Lubrication, Body....................... 379
Luggage Rack (Roof Rack)................. 212
Lumbar Support........................ 162
Maintenance Free Battery.................. 375
Maintenance, General..................... 367
Maintenance Procedures................... 367
456 INDEX

Maintenance Schedule
Schedule “A”-Non Turbo................. 429
Schedule “A”-Turbo.................... 433
Schedule “B”......................... 419
Schedule “B”-All Engines................ 419
Maintenance Schedules.................... 416
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) . . 224,365
Manual Override, Convertible Top.........132,357
Manual, Service......................... 444
Manual Transaxle..................280,290,394
Downshifting......................... 293
Fluid Level Check...................... 394
Frequency of Fluid Change............... 394
Lubricant Selection..................... 394
Map/Reading Lights..................178,179
Master Cylinder (Brakes).................. 389
Mirrors ............................... 133
Electric Remote....................... 135
Outside............................. 134Rearview............................ 133
Vanity .............................. 135
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle............. 7
Mopar Parts.........................366,443
Multi-Function Control Lever............... 181
New Vehicle Break-In Period................ 113
Occupant Classification System (OCS).......... 61
Occupant Restraints (Convertible)............. 80
Occupant Restraints (Sedan)................. 44
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel).............. 322
Odometer............................. 223
Trip .............................223,228
Oil, Engine.........................368,411
Capacity............................ 411
Change Interval....................... 369
Checking............................ 368
Disposal............................ 371
INDEX 457
10

Filter ............................... 371
Identification Logo..................... 370
Materials Added to..................... 371
Quality ............................. 370
Recommendation....................370,411
Synthetic............................ 371
Viscosity............................ 370
Oil Pressure Light....................... 227
Onboard Diagnostic System..............364,365
Opener, Garage Door (HomeLink) ........... 192
Operator Manual (Owner’s Manual)............ 4
Outside Air Intake....................... 272
Overdrive............................. 288
Overheating, Engine...................... 344
Owner’s Manual (Operator Manual)......... 4,444
PaintCare ............................. 395
Panel Rear Shelf........................ 207
Panic Alarm.......................... 26,33Parking Brake.......................... 294
Passenger Seat Back Tilt (Easy Entry System).... 163
Passing Light........................... 183
Personal Settings........................ 232
Pets............................... 79,113
Phone, Cellular......................... 136
Phone, Hands-Free (UConnect™)............ 136
Placard, Tire and Loading Information......... 307
Power
Deck Lid Release....................... 40
Distribution Center..................... 403
Door Locks........................... 20
Outlet (Auxiliary Electrical Outlet).......... 201
Seats............................... 160
Steering..........................299,378
Steering, Checking..................... 378
Sunroof............................. 199
Windows............................. 42
Power Steering Fluid..................... 413
458 INDEX