MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
6.1L Engine Compartment...............271
Onboard Diagnostic System — OBD II......272
▫Loose Fuel Filler Cap..................272
Emissions Inspection And Maintenance
Programs
............................273
Replacement Parts.....................274
Dealer Service........................274
Maintenance Procedures.................275
▫Engine Oil..........................275
▫Engine Oil Filter......................278
▫Drive Belts — Check Condition And Tension . . 278
▫Spark Plugs.........................278▫Engine Air Cleaner Filter................279
▫Fuel Filter..........................279
▫Catalytic Converter....................279
▫Maintenance-Free Battery................281
▫Air Conditioner Maintenance.............282
▫A/C Air Filter — If Equipped............283
▫Power Steering — Fluid Check............284
▫Front & Rear Suspension Ball Joints........284
▫Steering Linkage......................284
▫Body Lubrication.....................284
▫Windshield Wiper Blades................285
7
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” in this manual for
the recommended air conditioning filter replacement
intervals.
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 manufacturer’s recommended
power steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from allsurfaces. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts” in this section for the correct fluid type.
Front & Rear Suspension Ball Joints
The suspension ball joints should be inspected for exter-
nal leakage or damage when other maintenance is per-
formed.
Steering Linkage
The tie rod end ball joints should be inspected for
external leakage or damage when other maintenance is
performed.
Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including seat tracks,
door hinges, trunk hinges, and hood hinges, should be
lubricated periodically to assure quiet, easy operation
and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the appli-
cation of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be
wiped clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating
excess oil and grease should be removed. Particular
attention should also be given to hood latching compo-
nents to insure proper function. When performing other
underhood services, the hood latch, release mechanism,
and safety catch should be cleaned and lubricated.
284 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
ExteriorLighting ........................ 95
Filters
Air Cleaner.......................... 279
Air Conditioning..................189,283
Engine Fuel......................... 279
Engine Oil.......................278,314
Engine Oil Disposal................... 278
Flashers
Hazard Warning...................... 256
Turn Signal........................ 98,136
Flash-To-Pass........................... 99
Flooded Engine Starting.................. 197
Floor Console.......................... 127
Fluid Capacities........................ 313
Fluid Leaks............................ 58
Fluid Level Checks
Brake.............................. 293
Cooling System....................... 287
Engine Oil.......................... 275
Power Steering....................... 284
Fluids ............................... 314
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts........ 314FogLights .......................... 98,136
Folding Rear Seat....................... 89
FreeingAStuckVehicle .................. 265
Front Suspension Ball Joints............... 284
Front Wheel Bearings.................... 295
Fuel................................. 246
Adding............................. 249
CleanAir ........................... 246
Ethanol............................. 247
Filler Cap (Gas Cap)................... 249
Filter.............................. 279
Gasoline............................ 246
Gauge............................. 141
Hoses.............................. 292
Methanol........................... 247
OctaneRating .....................246,314
Requirements.....................246,313
Tank Capacity........................ 313
Fuel System Caution.................... 250
Fueling .............................. 249
Fuses................................ 300
Garage Door Opener (HomeLink) .......... 116
350 INDEX
