Page 330 of 417

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.
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 with
the engine off to prevent injury from moving parts,
and to insure accurate fluid level reading. Do not
overfill. Use only the manufacturer’s recommended
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 type.
NOTE:Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the power
steering pump may make noise for a short period of time.
This is due to the cold, thick fluid in the steering system.
This noise should be considered normal, and does not in
any way damage the steering system.
330 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Page 338 of 417

If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be
safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
•Do not overfill the coolant recovery bottle.
•Check antifreeze/coolant freeze point in the system.
•If frequent antifreeze/coolant additions are required,
or if the level in the recovery bottle does not drop
when the engine cools, the cooling system should be
pressure tested for leaks.
•Maintain engine coolant/anti-freeze concentration to
50% HOAT engine coolant/anti-freeze (minimum)
and distilled water for proper corrosion protection of
your engine which contains aluminum components.
•Make sure that the radiator and coolant recovery
bottle hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
•Keep the front of the radiator clean. Also, if your
vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep the
front of the condenser clean.
•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 cooling 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 the hoses nearest to high heat
sources such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect hose rout-
ing to be sure hoses do not touch any heat source or
moving component that may cause heat damage or
mechanical wear.
338 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Page 361 of 417

VEHICLE STORAGE
If you are leaving your vehicle dormant for more than 21
days you may want to take steps to protect your battery.
You may:
•Remove Cartridge fuse #15 in the Power Distribution
Center labeled Ignition-Off Draw (IOD).
•Store the removed IOD fuse in the Power Distribution
Center location #11 labeled “IOD Storage.”
•Or, disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
•Anytime you store your vehicle, or keep it out of
service (i.e. vacation) for two weeks or more, run the
air conditioning system at idle for about five minutes
in the fresh air and high blower setting. This will
insure adequate system lubrication to minimize the
possibility of compressor damage when the system is
started again.
REPLACEMENT BULBS
Interior Lights Bulb Type
A/C Heater.................... NotServiceable
Ashtray Receiver Light.................... 161
Climate Control (Manual A/C)................ 74
Front Reading........................... 192
Rear Cargo Light.......................214–2
Lighted Vanity Mirror *.............. P/N6501966
Underpanel Courtesy Lights................. 906
Instrument Cluster (General Illumination)....... 103
Telltale/Hazard Light...................... 74
* Available only from authorized dealers.
Exterior Lights Bulb Type
Backup Lights....................3157 P27/7W
Center High-Mounted Stoplight.........921/W16W
Fog Lights (Sport/Limited Only).............9145
Front Park/Turn Lights.............3157 P27/7W
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 361
7
Page 400 of 417

ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System)............168,241
Adding Fuel........................... 277
Adding Washer Fluid..................... 157
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . . . 324
Air Conditioner Maintenance............... 329
Air Conditioning........................ 203
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips............ 205
Air Conditioning Refrigerant............... 330
Air Conditioning System.................. 203
AirFilter .............................. 324
Air Pressure, Tires....................... 254
Airbag................................ 49
Airbag Deployment....................... 61
Airbag Light....................... 54,64,173
Airbag Maintenance....................... 63
Airbag, Window (Side Curtain)............... 50
Alarm, Panic............................ 24
Alarm (Security Alarm).................... 19
Alignment and Balance................... 260Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle............. 9
Antenna, Satellite Radio................... 199
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)................ 366
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)............126,241
Anti-Lock Warning Light.................. 168
Appearance Care........................ 347
Arming Theft System (Security Alarm)......... 20
Auto Down Power Windows................ 32
AutomaticDimmingMirror ................. 82
Automatic Door Locks..................... 29
Automatic Transmission................221,345
Adding Fluid......................... 346
Fluid and Filter Changes................. 345
Fluid Level Check...................... 345
FluidType ........................... 345
Gear Ranges.......................... 221
Shifting ............................. 221
Special Additives...................... 346
Torque Converter...................... 225
400 INDEX