Page 253 of 448
After Starting
The idle speed will automatically decrease as the engine
warms up.
CAUTION!
Long periods of engine idling, especially at high
engine speeds can cause excessive exhaust tempera-
tures which can damage your vehicle. Do not leave
your vehicle unattended with the engine running.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER—IF EQUIPPED
The engine block heater warms engine coolant and
permits quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the cord
to a standard 110-115 volt AC electrical outlet with
grounded, three wire extension cord.
Use the heater when temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) are
expected to last for several days.The engine block heater cord is located:
•3.7L/4.7L Engine—coiled and strapped to the engine
oil dipstick tube.
•5.7L Engine—bundled and fastened to the injector
harness.
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the cord before driving.
Damage to the 110-115 volt AC electrical cord could
cause electrocution.
STARTING AND OPERATING 253
5
Page 373 of 448

6. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on
both sides. The fluid level should be between the“HOT”
(upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operat-
ing temperature. The fluid level is only valid if there is a
solid coating of oil is seen on both sides of the dipstick. If
the fluid is low, add as required into the dipstick tube.Do
not overfill.After adding any quantity of oil through the
oil fill tube, wait a minimum of two (2) minutes for the oil
to fully drain into the transmission before rechecking the
fluid level.
NOTE:If it is necessary to check the transmissionbelow
the operating temperature, the fluid level should be
between the two“COLD”(lower) holes on the dipstick
with the fluid at approximately 70°F (21°C) (room tem-
perature). If the fluid level is correctly established at
room temperature, it should be between the“HOT”
(upper) reference holes when the transmission reaches
180°F (82°C). Remember it is best to check the level at the
normal operating temperature.CAUTION!
Be aware that if the fluid temperature is below 50°F
(10°C) it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough to
produce an accurate reading.
7. Check for leaks. Release parking brake.
To prevent dirt and water from entering the transmission
after checking or replenishing fluid, make certain that the
dipstick cap is properly reseated. It is normal for the
dipstick cap to spring back slightly from its fully seated
position, as long as its seal remains engaged in the
dipstick tube.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 373
7
Page 427 of 448

Daytime Running Lights................... 125
Dealer Service.......................... 350
Defroster, Rear Window................... 234
Defroster, Windshield................70,235,242
Diagnostic System, Onboard................ 347
Dimmer Switch, Headlight................. 126
Dipsticks
Automatic Transmission................. 372
Oil (Engine).......................... 351
Power Steering........................ 360
Disabled Vehicle Towing................... 339
Disposal
Engine Oil........................... 354
Used Engine Fluids..................... 354
Door Locks............................. 16
Door Locks, Automatic.................... 19
Door Opener, Garage..................... 152
Doors................................. 16
Drive Belts............................ 354Driving............................... 273
Off-Pavement......................... 274
Off-Road............................ 274
DVD Player (Video Entertainment System)...... 225
Electric Remote Mirrors.................... 81
Electrical Outlet, Auxiliary (Power Outlet)...... 162
Electronic Brake Control System............. 131
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control)...... 148
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)............ 135
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light...... 186
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) . 184,187
Emergency, In Case of
Freeing Vehicle When Stuck............... 261
Hazard Warning Flasher................. 328
Jacking............................. 330
Jump Starting......................... 336
Tow Hooks.......................... 338
Emission Control System Maintenance......348,396
INDEX 427
10
Page 434 of 448

Rearview............................. 78
Vanity............................... 82
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle............. 8
Monitor, Tire Pressure System............... 294
Mopar Parts.........................349,419
Multi-Displacement Engine System........... 278
Multi-Function Control Lever............... 121
New Vehicle Break-In Period................ 68
Occupant Restraints....................... 31
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel).............. 302
Odometer..........................184,185
Trip ................................ 184
Off-Pavement Driving (Off-Road)..........274,375
Off-Road Driving (Off-Pavement)..........274,375
Oil, Engine............................ 351
Capacity............................ 392
Change Interval....................... 351Dipstick............................. 351
Filter............................... 354
Identification Logo..................... 353
Materials Added to..................... 354
Pressure Warning Light.................. 182
Recommendation...................352,392
Viscosity..........................353,392
Onboard Diagnostic System..............347,348
Opener, Garage Door (HomeLink) ........... 152
Outside Rearview Mirrors.................. 80
Overdrive............................. 257
Overdrive OFF Switch.................... 257
Overhead Console....................... 151
Overheating, Engine...................184,329
Owner’s Manual (Operator Manual).......... 420
Paint Care............................. 376
Paint Damage.......................... 376
Panic Alarm............................ 22
434 INDEX