2008 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY brakes

BRAKES
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically.
Suggested service intervals can be found in the Mainte-
nance Schedules.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and
possibly an accident. Driving with your foot resting
or riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally
high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and
possible brake damage. You wouldn't have your full
braking capacity in an emergency.
Brake And Power Steering Hoses
When the vehicle is serviced for scheduled maintenance,
inspect surface of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence of
heat and mechanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber,cracking, tears, cuts, abrasion, and excessive swelling
indicate deterioration of the rubber. Particular attention
should be made to examining those hose surfaces nearest
to high heat sources, such as the exhaust manifold.
Ensure 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.
NOTE:Often, fluid such as oil, power steering fluid,
and brake fluid are used during assembly plant opera-
tions to facilitate the assembly of hoses to couplings.
Therefore, oil wetness at the hose-coupling area is not
necessarily an indication of leakage. Actual dripping of
hot fluid when systems are under pressure (during
vehicle operation), should be noted before hose is re-
placed based on leakage.
460 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE:Inspection of brake hoses should be performed
whenever the brake system is serviced and every engine
oil change. Inspect hydraulic brake hoses for surface
cracking, scuffing, or worn spots. If there is any evidence
of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, the hose should be
replaced immediately! Eventual deterioration of the hose
can take place resulting in a possibility of a burst failure.
WARNING!
Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure.
You could have an accident. If you see any signs of
cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, have the brake
hoses replaced immediately.
Master Cylinder Ð Brake Fluid Level Check
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing underhood services, or immediately if
the brake system warning light indicates system failure.Clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing
the cap. Add fluid to bring the level up to the top of the
ªFULLº mark on the side of the master cylinder reservoir.
Overfilling of fluid is not recommended because it may
cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the level up to the require-
ments described on the brake fluid reservoir. With disc
brakes, fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake
pads wear. However, low fluid level may be caused by a
leak and a checkup may be needed.
Use only manufacturer's recommended brake fluid, refer
to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct fluid
type.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 461
7

Brakes.............................339,460
Brake/Transmission Interlock............... 330
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle........ 92
Bulb Replacement....................... 481
Bulbs, Light............................ 480
Calibration, Compass..................242,247
Capacities, Fluid........................ 486
Caps, Filler
Fuel................................ 383
Oil (Engine).......................432,441
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)............... 456
Car Washes............................ 466
Carbon Monoxide Warning................. 383
Cargo Compartment
Luggage Carrier....................... 213
Cargo (Vehicle Loading)................... 212
Catalytic Converter...................... 444
Caution, Exhaust Gas.................51,94,383CD (Compact Disc) Player...............282,285
CD (Compact Disc) Player Maintenance........ 301
Cellular Phone.................104,285,286,300
Center High Mounted Stop Light............ 485
Chains, Tire............................ 368
Changing A Flat Tire..................... 412
Chart, Tire Sizing........................ 352
Check Engine Light
(Malfunction Indicator Light).............233,436
Child Restraint......................80,82,83
Child Restraint Tether Anchors............... 85
Child Safety Locks........................ 45
Child Seat.............................. 88
Clean Air Gasoline....................... 380
Cleaning
Wheels............................. 468
Climate Control......................... 302
Clock........................255,271,283,286
Coat Hook............................ 212
510 INDEX

Synthetic............................ 442
Viscosity..........................441,486
Onboard Diagnostic System..............435,436
Opener, Garage Door (HomeLinkt) ........... 183
Outside Rearview Mirrors...............100,101
Overdrive..........................334,335
Overhead Console....................... 180
Overhead Travel Information Center.......... 180
Overheating, Engine...................234,410
Owner's Manual (Operator Manual).......... 504
Panic Alarm............................ 24
Park Sense System, Rear................... 170
Parking Brake.......................... 337
Parking On Hill......................... 338
Passing Light........................... 168
Pedals, Adjustable....................... 175
Personal Settings........................ 249
Pets, Transporting........................ 88Phone, Cellular....................104,285,286
Phone, Hands-Free (UConnectŸ).......104,285,286
Placard, Tire and Loading Information......... 355
Port
Universal Serial Bus (USB).............282,285
USB .............................282,285
Power
Brakes.............................. 339
Distribution Center (Fuses)............... 472
Door Locks........................... 32
Lift Gate............................. 48
Mirrors..........................102,103
Outlet (Auxiliary Electrical Outlet).......... 193
Seats............................... 132
Sliding Door.......................... 41
Steering............................. 347
Steering, Checking..................... 451
Sunroof............................. 189
Windows............................. 36
520 INDEX