2008 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER engine overheat

WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or
others could be badly burned by steam or boiling
coolant. You may want to call a service center if your
vehicle overheats. If you decide to look under the
hood yourself, refer to Section 7, Maintenance, of this
manual. Follow the warnings under the Cooling
System Pressure Cap paragraph.
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING
WARNING!
²Being under a jacked-up vehicle is dangerous. The
vehicle could slip off the jack and fall on you. You
could be crushed. Never put any part of your body
under a vehicle that is on a jack. Never start or run
the engine while the vehicle is on a jack. If you
need to get under a raised vehicle, take it to a
service center where it can be raised on a lift.
²The jack is designed to use as a tool for changing
tires only. The jack should not be used to lift the
vehicle for service purposes. The vehicle should
be jacked on a firm level surface only. Avoid ice or
slippery areas.
360 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

WARNING!
Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces gener-
ated by excessive wheel speeds may cause tire dam-
age or failure. A tire could explode and injure some-
one. Do not spin your vehicle's wheels faster than 30
mph (48 km/h) when you are stuck. And don't let
anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter what the
speed.
CAUTION!
Racing the engine or spinning the wheels too fast
may lead to transaxle overheating and failure. It can
also damage the tires. Do not spin the wheels above
30 mph (48 km/h).
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
With Ignition Key
Four Speed Automatic Transaxle
Your vehicle may be towed under the following condi-
tions: The steering column must be unlocked and the
gear selector must be in NEUTRAL, the distance to be
towed must not exceed 100 miles (160 km), and the
towing speed must not exceed 44 mph (72 km/h). If the
transaxle is not operative, or if the vehicle is to be towed
more than 100 miles (160 km), the vehicle must be towed
with the front wheels off the ground to avoid damage to
the transaxle.
Manual Transaxle
Your vehicle may be towed in a forward direction, with
all 4 wheels on the ground, and the gearshift lever is in
NEUTRAL. If the transaxle is not operative, the vehicle
must be towed with the front wheels off the ground.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 371
6

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.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.
NOTE:Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 389
7

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 exhaust
system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact anything 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.
ENGINE TIMING BELT
Replace the engine timing belt at the intervals described
in the appropriate maintenance schedule.
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!
390 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any
accumulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces.
WARNING!
²The warning words ªDO NOT OPEN HOTº on
the cooling system pressure cap are a safety pre-
caution. Never add coolant when the engine is
overheated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to
cool an overheated engine. Heat causes pressure to
build up in the cooling system. To prevent scald-
ing or injury, do not remove the pressure cap while
the system is hot or under pressure.
²Do not use a pressure cap other than the one
specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or en-
gine damage may result.
Disposal of Used Engine Coolant
Used ethylene glycol based engine coolant is a regulated
substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your
local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your
community. To prevent ingestion by humans and animals
do not store ethylene glycol based engine coolant in open
containers or allow it to remain in puddles on the
ground. If ethylene glycol engine coolant is ingested by
anyone, contact a physician immediately. Clean up any
ground spills immediately.
Coolant Level
The coolant bottle provides a quick visual method for
determining that the coolant level is adequate. With the
engine idling, and warm to normal operating tempera-
ture, the level of the coolant in the bottle should be
between the ranges indicated on the bottle.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 401
7

Door Opener, Garage..................... 197
Downshifting.......................... 304
Drive Belts............................ 388
Driver's Seat Back Tilt.................... 167
Driving
On Slippery Surfaces.................... 369
Electric Rear Window Defrost............... 217
Electric Remote Mirrors................... 137
Electrical Power Outlets................... 206
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control)...... 194
Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC)..........................234,235,240
Emergency Deck Lid Release Latch (Convertible) . . 41
Emergency, In Case of
Jacking............................. 360
Jump Starting......................... 367
Towing............................. 371
Emergency Seat Back Release (Sedan).......... 40Emission Control System Maintenance......381,434
Engine.......................... 115,378,379
Break-In Recommendations............... 115
Checking Oil Level..................... 384
Coolant (Antifreeze).................... 398
Cooling............................. 398
Exhaust Gas Caution.................... 339
Fuel Requirements..................... 337
Jump Starting......................... 367
Oil ...........................384,429,430
Oil Change Interval.................... 385
Oil Filler Cap...................378,379,387
Oil Filter............................ 430
Oil Selection.......................... 386
Oil Synthetic......................... 387
Operation............................ 115
Overheating.......................... 358
Temperature Gauge..................... 226
Timing Belt.......................... 390
474 INDEX

Overheating, Engine...................... 358
Owner's Manual (Operator Manual).........4,465
Paint Care............................. 411
Panel Rear Shelf........................ 210
Panic Alarm..........................26,32
Parking Brake.......................... 305
Passenger Seat Back Tilt (Easy Entry System).... 168
Passing Light........................... 190
Personal Settings........................ 244
Pets...............................80,114
Phone, Cellular......................... 138
Phone, Hands-Free (UConnectŸ)............ 138
Placard, Tire and Loading Information......... 317
Power
Deck Lid Release....................... 39
Distribution Center (Fuses)............... 419
Door Locks........................... 20
Outlet (Auxiliary Electrical Outlet).......... 206Seats............................... 165
Steering..........................310,394
Steering, Checking..................... 394
Sunroof............................. 204
Windows............................. 42
Power Steering Fluid..................394,431
Pregnant Women and Seat Belts............54,89
Preparation for Jacking.................... 362
Pretensioners
Seat Belts...........................53,88
Programmable Electronic Features............ 244
Programming Transmitters (Remote Keyless
Entry)...............................27,33
Radial Ply Tires......................... 324
Radiator Cap (Coolant Pressure Cap).......... 400
Radio Broadcast Signals................... 250
Radio Operation...................251,259,277
Radio, Satellite.......................... 273
INDEX 481
10

INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
IGNITION KEY REMOVALLOCKING DOORS WITH A KEYKEY-IN-IGNITION REMINDERSENTRY KEY - IF EQUIPPED Replacement KeysSentry Key ProgrammingGeneral InformationSTEERING WHEEL LOCK - IF EQUIPPED If You Wish To Manually Lock The Steering
WheelTo Release The Steering Wheel LockAutomatic Transaxle Ignition Interlock SystemDOOR LOCKS MANUAL DOOR LOCKSPOWER DOOR LOCKS - IF EQUIPPEDCHILD PROTECTION DOOR LOCK SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPEDREMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (SEDAN)
TO UNLOCK THE DOORS AND LIFTGATETO LOCK THE DOORS AND LIFTGATE - IF EQUIPPED WITH POWER OPTIONSPANIC ALARMTO TURN OFF FLASH LIGHTS WITH LOCKTO PROGRAM ADDITIONAL TRANSMITTERSGENERAL INFORMATION
TRANSMITTER BATTERY SERVICEREMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (CONVERTIBLE) TO UNLOCK THE DOORSTO LOCK THE DOORSTO UNLATCH THE DECK LIDPANIC ALARMTO TURN OFF FLASH LIGHTS WITH LOCKTO PROGRAM ADDITIONAL TRANSMITTERS
GENERAL INFORMATIONTRANSMITTER BATTERY SERVICESECURITY ALARM SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED To set the alarmTo disarm the systemSecurity System Manual OverrideLIFTGATE (SEDAN) Opening The Liftgate While the Security Alarm Is ActivatedDECK LID
(CONVERTIBLE) POWER DECK LID RELEASE (Convertible)EMERGENCY SEAT BACK RELEASE (SEDAN) EMERGENCY DECK LID RELEASE LATCH (CONVERTIBLE) POWER WINDOWS AUTO DOWN FEATUREREAR WINDOW SWITCHESWIND BUFFETING
OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS (SEDAN) LAP/SHOULDER BELTSLAP/SHOULDER SEAT BELT UNTWISTING PROCEDUREADJUSTABLE UPPER SHOULDER SEAT BELT ANCHORAGESEAT BELT PRETENSIONERSENHANCED SEAT BELT REMINDER SYSTEM
(BELTALERT) SEAT BELTS AND PREGNANT WOMENDRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) AIRBAGCHILD RESTRAINTOCCUPANT RESTRAINTS (CONVERTIBLE) LAP/SHOULDER BELTSLAP/SHOULDER SEAT BELT
UNTWISTING PROCEDURESEAT BELT PRETENSIONERSENHANCED SEAT BELT REMINDER SYSTEM (BELTALERT) SEAT BELTS AND PREGNANT WOMENDRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)CHILD RESTRAINT
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS SAFETY TIPS Exhaust GasSafety Checks You Should Make Inside The VehiclePeriodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The VehicleUNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CONVERTIBLE TOP
OPERATION To Lower The TopTo Raise The TopConvertible Top Boot Cover Installation-If EquippedConvertible Top Boot Cover Removal and StorageCONVERTIBLE TOP MANUAL OVERRIDEMIRRORS Inside Day/Night Mirror - If EquippedOutside Mirror-Drivers Side
Outside Mirror-Passengers SideElectric Remote-Control Mirrors - If EquippedIlluminated Vanity Mirrors - If EquippedSun Visor Sliding FeatureHANDS-FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect) - IF EQUIPPED OperationsPhone Call FeaturesUConnect System Features
Advanced Phone ConnectivityThings You Should Know About Your UConnect SystemGeneral InformationSEATS FRONT SEAT ADJUSTMENTPOWER SEAT ADJUSTER -IF EQUIPPEDMANUAL LUMBAR - IF EQUIPPEDFOLDING FRONT PASSENGER SEAT - IF
EQUIPPEDDRIVERS SEAT BACK TILT - IF EQUIPPEDPASSENGER SEAT BACK TILT (EASY ENTRY SYSTEM) - CONVERTIBLEADJUSTABLE HEAD RESTRAINTSHEATED SEATS - IF EQUIPPEDFOLDING REAR SEAT (SEDAN)FOLDING REAR SEAT
(CONVERTIBLE)TUMBLING REAR SEAT (SEDAN)TUMBLING REAR SEAT (CONVERTIBLE)REAR SEAT REMOVAL (SEDAN)TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD LIGHTS Map/Reading Lights (Sedan)Map/Reading Lights (Convertible)Multi-Function Control Lever
Headlights, Parking Lights, Instrument Panel LightsDaytime Running Lights (DRL) - If EquippedLights-on ReminderFog Lights - If Equipped Turn Signals Highbeam/Lowbeam Select Switch Passing LightWINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS Windshield WashersMist
Feature Windshield Wiper OperationIntermittent Wiper SystemTILT STEERING COLUMN ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL - IF EQUIPPED To ActivateTo Set At A Desired SpeedTo DeactivateTo Resume SpeedTo Vary The Speed SettingManual TransaxleTo Accelerate
For PassingGARAGE DOOR OPENER - IF EQUIPPED PROGRAMMING HOMELINKGATE OPERATOR/CANADIAN PROGRAMMINGUSING HOMELINKREPROGRAMMING A SINGLE HOMELINK BUTTONSECURITYTROUBLESHOOTING TIPSGENERAL
INFORMATIONPOWER SUNROOF (SEDAN ONLY) - IF EQUIPPED Express Open FeatureWind BuffetingSunroof MaintenanceELECTRICAL POWER OUTLETS Electrical Outlet Use With Engine OffCONSOLE FEATURES STORAGE Center Console/Armrest Storage
Bin Storage PocketsREAR SHELF PANEL- IF EQUIPPED Position 1 (Top)Position 2 (Middle)Position 3 (Floor)Position 4 (Vertical)Position 5 (table)ROOF LUGGAGE RACK - IF EQUIPPED REAR WINDOW FEATURES Electric Rear Window Defroster Rear Wiper/Washer
Switch (Sedan Models Only) - If EquippedAdding Washer FluidUNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL INSTRUMENT PANEL FEATURES INSTRUMENT CLUSTER-BASE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER-PREMIUM INSTRUMENT CLUSTER-TURBO INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS COMPASS MINI TRIP COMPUTER (CMTC) - IF EQUIPPED Compass Mini Trip Computer Reset ButtonCompass/Temperature DisplayOdometerDisplayTrip Odometer (ODO)ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER (EVIC) - If
Equipped EVIC Functions Compass/Temperature/AudioAverage Fuel EconomyDistance To Empty (DTE)Elapsed TimeTire Pressure Monitor (TPM)PersonalSettings (Customer Programmable Features)SETTING THE ANALOG CLOCK RADIO GENERAL INFORMATION
Radio Broadcast SignalsTwo Types of SignalsElectrical DisturbancesAM ReceptionFM ReceptionSALES CODE REF - AM/FM/CD (SINGLE DISC) RADIO WITH OPTIONAL SATELLITE RADIO AND HANDS FREE PHONE CAPABILITY Operating Instructions - Radio Mode
Operating Instructions - CD ModeOperating Instructions - Auxiliary ModeOperating Instructions - Hands-Free Phone - If EquippedOperating Instructions - Satellite Radio - If EquippedSALES CODE RAQ - AM/FM/CD (6-DISC) RADIO WITH OPTIONAL SATELLITE RADIO,
HANDS-FREE PHONE, AND VIDEO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS (VES) CAPABILITIES Operating Instructions - Radio ModeOperating Instructions - (CD Mode for CD Audio Play)LOAD/EJECT Button (CD Mode for CD Audio Play)Notes On Playing MP3 FilesOperating
Instructions - (CD Mode for MP3 Audio Play)LOAD/EJECT Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play)SATELLITE RADIO - IF EQUIPPED System ActivationElectronic SerialNumber/Sirius Identification Number (ESN/SID)Selecting Satellite Mode in REF, and RAQ, RadiosSelecting
a ChannelStoring and Selecting Pre-Set ChannelsUsing the PTY (Program Type) Button (if equipped)PTY Button SCANPTY Button SEEKSatellite AntennaReception QualityCD/DVD DISC MAINTENANCE RADIO OPERATION AND CELLULAR PHONES CLIMATE
CONTROLS Climate ControlsOperating Tips STARTING AND OPERATING STARTING PROCEDURES AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLEMANUAL TRANSAXLENORMAL STARTINGEXTREMELY COLD WEATHER (BELOW -20 degrees F or -29 degrees C)IF THE ENGINE FAILS
TO STARTAFTER STARTINGTURBOCHARGER COOL-DOWN AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE - IF EQUIPPED BRAKE/TRANSMISSION INTERLOCK SYSTEMAUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE IGNITION INTERLOCK SYSTEMFOUR-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERESET
MODEGEAR RANGES FOR THE FOUR-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLEAUTOSTICK - IF EQUIPPED AUTOSTICK OperationAUTOSTICK General InformationMANUAL TRANSAXLE OPERATION - IF EQUIPPED 2.4 LITER TURBO - IF EQUIPPED MANUAL
TRANSAXLE - RECOMMENDED SHIFT SPEEDSDownshiftingPARKING BRAKE BRAKE SYSTEM ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) - IF EQUIPPEDPOWER STEERING TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION Tire Markings
Tire Identification Number (TIN)Tire Loading and Tire PressureTIRES - GENERAL INFORMATION Tire PressureTire Inflation PressuresRadial Ply TiresCompact Spare Tire - If EquippedLimited-Use Spare - If EquippedTire SpinningTread Wear IndicatorsLife of Tire
Replacement TiresAlignment and BalanceTIRE CHAINS SNOW TIRES TIRE ROTATION RECOMMENDATIONS TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM (TPMS) - IF EQUIPPED BASESYSTEM - IF EQUIPPEDGENERAL INFORMATIONFUEL REQUIREMENTS -
GASOLINE ENGINES 2.4L AND 2.4L STANDARD TURBO ENGINESREFORMULATED GASOLINEGASOLINE/OXYGENATE BLENDSMMT IN GASOLINEMATERIALS ADDED TO FUELFUELSYSTEM CAUTIONSCARBON MONOXIDE WARNINGSADDING FUEL Fuel
Filler Cap (Gas Cap)Loose Fuel Filler Cap MessageVEHICLE LOADING TRAILER TOWING COMMON TOWING DEFINITIONSTRAILER HITCH CLASSIFICATIONTRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
TOWING REQUIREMENTSTOWING TIPSRECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.) Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle (Flat towing with all fourwheels on the ground)WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES HAZARD WARNING FLASHER IF YOUR
ENGINE OVERHEATS JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING JACK LOCATIONSPARE TIRE STOWAGEPREPARATIONS FOR JACKINGJACKING INSTRUCTIONS JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES DUE TO A LOW BATTERY DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES ACCELERATIONTRACTIONFREEING A STUCK VEHICLE TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE With Ignition KeyWithout The Ignition KeyCONVERTIBLE TOP MANUAL OVERRIDE MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 2.4L TURBO ENGINE COMPARTMENT 2.4L ENGINE
COMPARTMENT ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM - OBD II Loose Fuel Filler Cap MessageEMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS REPLACEMENT PARTS AUTHORIZED DEALER SERVICE MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ENGINE OILDRIVE
BELTS - CHECK CONDITION AND TENSIONSPARK PLUGSIGNITION WIRING SYSTEMCATALYTIC CONVERTERENGINE TIMING BELTCRANKCASE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMFUEL FILTERAIR CLEANER ELEMENT (AIR FILTER)MAINTENANCE-FREE
BATTERYAIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCEPOWER STEERING - FLUID CHECKFRONT SUSPENSION BALL JOINTSSTEERING LINKAGEBODY LUBRICATIONWINDSHIELD WIPER BLADESWINDSHIELD WASHER RESERVOIREXHAUST SYSTEMCOOLING
SYSTEMHOSES AND VACUUM/VAPOR HARNESSESFUEL SYSTEM CONNECTIONSBRAKE SYSTEMAUTOMATIC TRANSAXLEMANUAL TRANSAXLEAPPEARANCE CARE AND PROTECTIONFROM CORROSIONCONVERTIBLE TOP CARE WashingGeneral
CleaningCloth Top Additional Cleaning ProcedureCloth Top ProtectionWeather Strip CareINTEGRATED POWER MODULE (IPM) VEHICLE STORAGE REPLACEMENT BULBS BULB REPLACEMENT HeadlightsFront Park/Turn Signal/Side Marker LightsFront Fog Lights
- If EquippedTail/Stop, and Rear Turn Signal LightsBack Up Lights Center High Mounted Stop LightFLUIDS AND CAPACITIES FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS AND GENUINE PARTS ENGINECHASSISMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE SCHEDULE B-ALL ENGINESSCHEDULE A-NON TURBOSCHEDULE A-TURBOIF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE SUGGESTIONS FOR OBTAINING SERVICE FOR YOUR VEHICLE Prepare For The Appointment
Prepare A ListBe Reasonable With RequestsIF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE DaimlerChrysler Motors Corporation Customer CenterDaimlerChrysler Canada Inc. Customer CenterIn Mexico contactCustomer Assistance For The Hearing Or Speech Impaired (TDD/TTY)Service
ContractWARRANTY INFORMATION (U.S. Vehicles Only) MOPAR PARTS REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS In The 50 United States And Washington, D.CIn CanadaPUBLICATION ORDER FORMS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY
GRADES TreadwearTraction GradesTemperature GradesINDEX