2006 DODGE CALIBER catalytic converter

Certain conditions such as a loose or missing gas cap,
poor fuel quality, etc. may illuminate the light after
engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light
stays on through several of your typical driving cycles. In
most situations the vehicle will drive normally and will
not require towing.
If the Malfunction Indicator Light flashes when the
engine is running, serious conditions may exist that
could lead to immediate loss of power or severe catalytic
converter damage. The vehicle should be serviced as
soon as possible if this occurs.
17. Cruise Indicator Ð If Equipped
This indicator shows that the Speed Control
System is ON.
18. Odometer/Trip Odometer Reset Knob
Press this button to change the display from odometer to
either of the two trip odometer settings. Trip A or Trip B
will appear when in the trip odometer mode. Push in and
hold the button for two seconds to reset the trip odometer
to 0 miles or kilometers. The odometer must be in trip
mode to reset.
19. Electronic Throttle Control Indicator Light
This light informs you of a problem with the
Electronic Throttle Control system. If a prob-
lem is detected, the light will come on while
the engine is running. If the light remains lit
with the engine running your vehicle will usually be
drivable and not need towing, however see your
dealer for service as soon as possible.
If the light is flashing when the engine is running you
may experience power loss, an elevated/rough idle, and
increased brake pedal effort, and your vehicle may
require towing. Immediate service is required.
The light will come on when the ignition switch is first
turned on and remain on briefly as a bulb check. This is
normal. If the light does not come on during starting,
have the system checked by an authorized dealer.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 115
4

WARNING!
Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it
started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans-
axle cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel could
enter the catalytic converter and once the engine has
started, ignite and damage the converter and vehicle.
If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster cables
may be used to obtain a start from another vehicle.
This type of start can be dangerous if done improp-
erly, so follow the procedure carefully. See section 6
of this manual for jump starting instructions.
Extremely Cold Weather (below220ÉF or229ÉC)
To insure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of an
externally powered electric engine block heater (available
from your dealer) is recommended.
If Engine Fails to Start
If the engine fails to start after you have followed the
ªNORMAL STARTINGº procedure, it may be flooded.
Push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and
hold it there. Crank the engine for no more than 15seconds. This should clear any excess fuel in case the
engine is flooded. Leave the ignition key in the ON
position, release the accelerator pedal and repeat the
ªNORMAL STARTINGº procedure.
WARNING!
Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the
throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start
the vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing
serious personal injury.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank the
engine for more than 15 seconds at a time. Wait 10 to
15 seconds before trying again.
STARTING AND OPERATING 175
5

Fuel System Cautions
CAUTION!
Follow these guidelines to maintain your vehicle's
performance:
²The use of leaded gas is prohibited by Federal law.
Using leaded gasoline can impair engine performance,
damage the emission control system.
²An out-of-tune engine, or certain fuel or ignition
malfunctions, can cause the catalytic converter to
overheat. If you notice a pungent burning odor or
some light smoke, your engine may be out of tune or
malfunctioning and may require immediate service.
Contact your dealer for service assistance.
²The use of fuel additives which are now being sold as
octane enhancers is not recommended. Most of these
products contain high concentrations of methanol.Fuel system damage or vehicle performance problems
resulting from the use of such fuels or additives is 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:
²Do 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.
STARTING AND OPERATING 213
5

JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES DUE TO A LOW
BATTERY
WARNING!
Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan whenever
the hood is raised. It can start anytime the ignition
switch is on. You can be hurt by the fan.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it
started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans-
axle cannot be started this way and may be damaged.
Unburned fuel could enter the catalytic converter
and once the engine has started, ignite and damage
the converter and vehicle. If the vehicle has a dis-
charged battery, booster cables may be used to ob-
tain a start from another vehicle. This type of start
can be dangerous if done improperly, so follow this
procedure carefully.
WARNING!
Wear eye protection and remove any metal jewelry
such as watch bands or bracelets that might make an
inadvertent electrical contact. You could be seriously
injured.
1. Wear eye protection and remove any metal jewelry
such as watch bands or bracelets that might make an
inadvertent electrical contact.
2. When boosting from a battery in another vehicle, park
that vehicle within booster cable reach but without
letting the vehicles touch. Set parking brake, place auto-
matic transaxle in PARK (manual transaxle in NEU-
TRAL) and turn ignition to OFF for both vehicles.
3. Turn off the heater, radio and all unnecessary electrical
loads.
4. Remove the air intake duct covering the battery, using
the two finger screws on the cover.
234 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
mEngine Compartment Ð Gasoline Engines...241
mOnboard Diagnostic System Ð OBD II......242
NLoose Fuel Filler Cap Message............242
mEmissions Inspection And Maintenance
Programs
............................243
mReplacement Parts.....................244
mDealer Service........................244
mMaintenance Procedures.................245
NEngine Oil..........................245
NEngine Oil Requirements Ð Diesel Engines . . . 248
NDrive Belt Ð Check Condition............249
NSpark Plugs.........................249NIgnition Wiring System.................249
NCatalytic Converter....................249
NCrankcase Emission Control System........250
NFuel Filter..........................251
NAir Cleaner Element (Filter)..............251
NMaintenance-Free Battery................251
NAir Conditioner Maintenance.............253
NPower Steering Ð Fluid Check............253
NFront Suspension Ball Joints..............254
NBody Lubrication.....................254
NWindshield Wiper Blades................254
7

Selecting Engine Oil
Viscosity:Grade 5W-40 is recommended.
Oil Quality:Use only Synthetic Diesel engine oils con-
forming to the most current version of ACEA A3/B4 or
A3/B4/C3.
Drive Belt Ð Check Condition
At the mileage shown in the maintenance schedules,
check the drive belt for condition.
Inspect the drive belt for evidence of cuts, cracks, or
glazing and replace belt if any sign of damage which
could result in belt failure.
The belt is self-tensioning and will not need adjustment.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs must fire properly to assure engine perfor-
mance and emission control. New plugs should be in-
stalled at the specified mileage. The entire set should be
replaced if there is any malfunction due to a faulty spark
plug. Refer to the Engine data Label located under the
hood for the proper type of spark plug for use in your
vehicle.
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.
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 tuned to assure
proper catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst
damage.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 249
7

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.
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 manufacturers specifica-
tions, should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalyst damage:
²Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition
when the transaxle is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
²Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the
vehicle.
²Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires
disconnected for prolonged period.
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!
250 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Brake Fluid........................... 280
Brake, Parking......................... 183
Brake System.......................185,260
Anti-Lock (ABS)....................86,186
Hoses.............................. 261
Master Cylinder...................... 262
Parking............................ 183
Warning Light....................... 117
Brakes............................185,260
Brake/Transmission Interlock.............. 177
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle...... 59
Bulb Replacement...................272,273
Bulbs, Light........................... 272
Calibration, Compass.................... 127
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)...... 278
Capacities, Fluid....................... 278
Caps, Filler
Fuel............................... 214
Oil (Engine)......................241,247
Car Washes........................... 266
Carbon Monoxide Warning............... 213
Cargo Area Cover....................... 98Cargo Area Features..................... 96
Cargo Compartment
Light............................... 96
Luggage Carrier...................... 102
Cargo Light............................ 96
Cargo Load Floor....................... 99
Cargo Tie-Downs........................ 99
Carrier, Luggage....................... 102
Catalytic Converter..................... 249
Caution, Exhaust Gas..................... 60
CD (Compact Disc) Player..........129,136,147
CD (Compact Disc) Player Maintenance...... 163
Cellular Phone......................... 163
Center High Mounted Stop Light........... 277
Chains, Tire........................... 209
Changing A Flat Tire.................... 230
Chart, Tire Sizing....................... 191
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator
Light)............................... 243
Child Restraint......................... 52
Child Restraint Tether Anchors............. 56
Child Restraint with Automatic Belts......... 55
Child Safety Locks....................... 18
INDEX 309
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