
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION
1. Check Gages
This light illuminates when the Voltmeter, Engine
Oil Pressure or Engine Coolant Temperature
gages indicate a reading either too high or too low.
Examine the gages carefully, and follow the instructions
above for each indicated problem.
NOTE:When the ignition switch is turned to OFF, the
Fuel Gage, Voltmeter, Oil Pressure and Engine Coolant
Temperature gages may not show accurate readings.
When the engine is not running, turn the ignition switch
to ON to obtain accurate readings.
2. Voltage Gauge
When the engine is running, the gauge indicates
the electrical system voltage. The pointer should
stay within the normal range if the battery is charged. Ifthe pointer moves to either extreme left or right and
remains there during normal driving, the electrical sys-
tem should be serviced.
NOTE:If the gauge pointer moves to either extreme of
the gauge, the “Check Gages” indicator will illuminate
and a single chime will sound. The “Check Gages”
indicator may also illuminate prior to the voltage gauge
moving out of normal range. In either case, see you local
authorized Dealer for system service.
3. Turn Signal Indicators
Lights in instrument cluster flash when outside turn
signals are operating.
4. Tachometer
The tachometer indicates engine speed in revolutions per
minute.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 227
4

2. Economy—
Improper inflation pressures can cause uneven wear pat-
terns to develop across the tire tread. These abnormal wear
patterns will reduce tread life resulting in a need for earlier
tire replacement. Under inflation, also increases tire rolling
resistance and results in higher fuel consumption.
3. Ride Comfort and Vehicle Stability—
Proper tire inflation contributes to a comfortable ride.
Over inflation produces a jarring and uncomfortable ride.
Tire Inflation Pressures
The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed either on
the face of the driver’s door or on the driver’s side “B”
pillar.
Some vehicles may have Supplemental Tire Pressure
Information for vehicle loads that are less than the
maximum loaded vehicle condition. These pressure con-
ditions will be found in the “Supplemental Tire Pressure
Information” section of this manual.The pressure should be checked and adjusted as well as
inspecting for signs of tire wear or visible damage at least
once a month. Use a good quality pocket-type gauge to
check tire pressure. Do not make a visual judgement
when determining proper inflation. Radial tires may look
properly inflated even when they are under inflated.
Tire Placard Location
STARTING AND OPERATING 367
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Tire Size
The tire size on the Label represents the actual tire size on
your vehicle. Replacement tires must be equal to the load
capacity of this tire size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire size
listed.
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle for
all loading conditions up to full GAWR.
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total weight
of the vehicle with all fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full
capacity conditions, and with no occupants or cargo
loaded into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight
values are determined by weighing your vehicle on a
commercial scale before any occupants or cargo are
added.
Loading
The actual total weight and the weight of the front and
rear of your vehicle at the ground can best be determined
by weighing it when it is loaded and ready for operation.
The entire vehicle should first be weighed on a commer-
cial scale to insure that the GVWR has not been exceeded.
The weight on the front and rear of the vehicle should
then be determined separately to be sure that the load is
properly distributed over front and rear axle. Weighing
the vehicle may show that the GAWR of either the front
or rear axles has been exceeded but the total load is
within the specified GVWR. If so, weight must be shifted
from front to rear or rear to front as appropriate until the
specified weight limitations are met. Store the heavier
items down low and be sure that the weight is distributed
equally. Stow all loose items securely before driving.
390 STARTING AND OPERATING

•Do not change the thermostat for summer or winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory coolant performance, poor gas
mileage, and increased emissions.
Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses
Inspect surfaces of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence
of heat and mechanical damage. Hard or soft spots,
brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and exces-
sive swelling indicate deterioration of the rubber.
Pay particular attention to those hoses nearest to high
heat sources such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect hose
routing to be sure hoses do not come in contact with any
heat source or moving component which may cause heat
damage or mechanical wear.
Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or
collapsed.Inspect all hose connections such as clamps and cou-
plings to make sure they are secure and no leaks are
present.
Components should be replaced immediately if there is
any evidence of wear or damage that could cause failure.Fuel System Connections
Electronic Fuel Injection high pressure fuel systems are
designed with tubes and special connects, connections
and clamps which have unique material characteristics to
provide adequate sealing and resist attack by deterio-
rated gasoline.
You are urged to use only the manufactures-specified
tubes, connections and clamps, or their equivalent in
material and specification, in any fuel system servicing.
474 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

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. When refilling the washer fluid reservoir,
take some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or towel
and wipe clean the wiper blades, this will help blade
performance.
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 bottle, brake master
cylinder, and transmission and add as needed.
•Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Lubricate Drivetrain/Steering/Suspension Grease Fit-
tings (if equipped)
•Inspect the exhaust system.
•Inspect the brake hoses.
•Inspect the CV joints/U— joints (if equipped) and
front suspension components.
•Check the automatic transmission fluid level.
•Check the manual transmission fluid level.
•Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
•Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4).
520 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Adding Fuel........................... 384
Adjustable Pedals....................... 174
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . 459,484
Air Conditioner Maintenance............... 463
Air Conditioning Refrigerant.............463,464
Air Conditioning System................286,463
Air Conditioning System, Zone Control........ 289
Air Pressure, Tires....................367,375
Airbag..........................47,54,86,92
Airbag Light......................57,219,228
Airbag On/Off Switch...................54,92
Airbag, Side............................ 95
Alarm (Security Alarm).................18,230
Alarm System (Security Alarm)............... 18
Alignment and Balance................... 374
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle............. 7
Antenna, Satellite Radio................... 279
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)...........470,471,512
Disposal............................ 472Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)............341,344
Anti-Lock Warning Light...............232,342
Anti-Theft Security Alarm (Theft Alarm)........ 18
Anti-Theft System.....................18,230
Appearance Care........................ 487
Ashtray............................... 198
Automatic Dimming Mirror................ 122
Automatic Transaxle...................... 12
Interlock System........................ 15
Automatic Transmission
Adding Fluid......................... 481
Fluid and Filter Changes................. 482
Fluid Level Check...................... 480
Fluid Type........................480,515
Shift Indicator........................ 230
Shifting............................. 307
Special Additives...................... 482
Axle Fluid..........................477,515
Axle Lubrication (Axle Fluid)............... 477
550 INDEX

Starting............................. 388
Flooded Engine Starting................... 303
Fluid, Brake........................... 515
Fluid Capacities......................... 512
Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transmission................. 480
Brake............................... 476
Power Steering........................ 464
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.......... 514
Fog Lights.......................168,233,502
Fold Flat Load Floor..................... 210
Four Wheel Drive....................... 316
Four-Way Hazard Flasher.................. 420
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle................... 442
Front Axle (Differential)................... 477
Front Wheel Bearings..................... 482
Fuel................................. 380
Adding............................. 384
Filter............................... 459Gauge.............................. 235
Hoses.............................. 474
Octane Rating......................380,514
Requirements......................380,512
System Hoses......................... 474
Tank Capacity........................ 512
Fuel, Flexible.............See Flexible Fuel Vehicles
Fuses................................ 492
Garage Door Opener (HomeLink) ........... 186
Gas Cap (Fuel Filler Cap)...............385,450
Gasoline (Fuel)......................... 380
Gasoline, Reformulated................... 381
Gauges............................... 227
Coolant Temperature.................... 229
Fuel................................ 235
Oil Pressure.......................... 228
Speedometer......................... 228
Tachometer.......................... 227
INDEX 555
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