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Synthetic Engine Oils
You may use synthetic engine oils provided the recom-
mended oil quality requirements are met, and the recom-
mended maintenance intervals for oil and filter changes
are followed.
Materials Added to Engine Oils
The manufacture strongly recommends against the addi-
tion of any additives (other than leak detection dyes) to
the engine oil. Engine oil is an engineered product and
it's performance may be impaired by supplemental ad-
ditives.
Disposing of Used Engine Oil And Oil Filters
Care should be taken in disposing of used engine oil and
oil filters from your vehicle. Used oil and oil filters,
indiscriminately discarded, can present a problem to the
environment. Contact your dealer, service station, or
governmental agency for advice on how and where used
oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in your area.
Engine Oil Filter
The engine oil filter should be replaced at every engine
oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
The manufacturer's engines have a full-flow type oil
filter. Use a filter of this type for replacement. The quality
of replacement filters varies considerably. Only high
quality filters should be used to assure most efficient
service. MopartEngine Oil Filters are a high quality oil
filter and are recommended.
Drive Belts Ð Check Condition and Tension
Belt tension is controlled by means of an automatic
tensioner. No belt tension adjustments are required.
However, belt and belt tensioner condition should be
inspected at the specified intervals, and replaced if re-
quired. See your authorized dealer for service. At the
mileage indicated in the maintenance schedule, all belts
and tensioner should be checked for condition. Improper
394 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
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belt tension can cause belt slippage and failure. Belts
should be inspected for evidence of cuts, cracks, glazing,
or frayed cords and replaced if there is indication of
damage which could result in belt failure. Low generator
belt tension can cause battery failure. Also check belt
routing to make sure there is no interference between the
belts and other engine components.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs must fire properly to assure proper engine
performance and emission control. The plugs installed in
your vehicle should operate satisfactorily in normal
service for the mileage indicated in the Maintenance
Chart. New plugs should be installed at this mileage. The
entire set should be replaced if there is any malfunction
due to a faulty spark plug. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants
and Genuine Parts for the proper type of spark plug for
your vehicle.
CAUTION!
When replacing plugs, do not overtighten. You could
damage them and cause them to leak.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter
Follow the Maintenance Schedule for recommended en-
gine air cleaner filter change intervals.
WARNING!
The air cleaner can provide a measure of protection
in the case of engine backfire. Do not remove the air
cleaner unless such removal is necessary for repair or
maintenance. Make sure that no one is near the
engine compartment before starting the vehicle with
the air cleaner removed. Failure to do so can result in
serious personal injury.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 395
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Page 399 of 481

Power Steering Ð 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.9
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 manufacturers recommended
power steering 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.
Air Conditioner Maintenance
For best possible performance, your air conditioner
should be checked and serviced by an Authorized Dealer
at the start of each warm season. This service should
include cleaning of the condenser fins and a performance
test. Drive belt tension should also be checked at this
time.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 399
7
Page 419 of 481

To minimize the possibility of scratching the lenses and
reducing light output, avoid wiping with a dry cloth. To
remove road dirt, wash with a mild soap solution fol-
lowed by rinsing.
Do not use abrasive cleaning components, solvents, steel
wool or other aggressive material to clean the lenses.
Glass Surfaces
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis
with any commercial household-type glass cleaner.
Never use an abrasive type cleaner. Use caution when
cleaning inside rear windows equipped with electric
defrosters or windshields equipped with a windshield
wiper de-icer. Do not use scrapers or other sharp instru-
ments which may scratch the elements.
When cleaning the rear view mirror, spray cleaner on the
towel or rag that you are using. Do not spray cleaner
directly on the mirror.
Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in this vehicle are
molded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, care
must be taken to avoid scratching the plastic.
1. Clean with a wet soft rag. A mild soap solution may be
used, but do not use high alcohol content or abrasive
cleaners. If soap is used, wipe clean with a clean damp
rag.
2. Dry with a soft tissue.
Seat Belt Maintenance
Do not bleach, dye or clean the belts with chemical
solvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the fabric.
Sun damage will also weaken the fabric.
If the belts need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or
lukewarm water. Do not remove the belts from the car to
wash them.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 419
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Page 420 of 481
Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the
buckles do not work properly.
FUSE BLOCK
CAUTION!
When replacing a blown fuse, it is important to use
only a fuse having the correct amperage rating. The
use of a fuse with a rating other than indicated may
result in a dangerous electrical system overload. If a
properly rated fuse continues to blow, it suggests a
problem in the circuit that must be corrected.NOTE:If you are leaving your vehicle dormant for
longer than 21 days you may want to take steps to protect
your battery. You may do this by disconnecting the
battery or by disconnecting the two ignition-off draw
(I.O.D.) fuses located in the Auxiliary Power Distribution
Center (PDC) located in the engine compartment. The
I.O.D. cavities include a snap-in retainer that allows the
fuse to be disconnected, without removing it from the
fuse block. Pressing the I.O.D. fuse back into the cavity
reconnects it.
420 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Page 450 of 481
Perform Maintenance Every(Where time and mileage
are listed, follow the interval that occurs first.)
Maintenance Items Miles Kilometers or Months
Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid and
change main sump filter and spin-on cooler return
filter (if equipped)(4.7L/5.7L engines only).120,000 200 000 120
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s). 120,000 200 000 120
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or around a
motor vehicle. Do only that service work for which
you have the knowledge and the right equipment. If
you have any doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a competent
mechanic.
450 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Special Additives...................... 413
Torque Converter...................... 280
Axle Fluid............................. 441
Axle Lubrication (Axle Fluid)............... 414
Ball Joints............................. 400
Battery.......................384,385,386,397
Charging............................ 375
Emergency Starting..................... 375
Gas Caution.......................... 375
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE)....... 26
Saving Feature (Protection)............... 139
Belts, Drive............................ 394
Belts, Seat.............................. 40
Body Mechanism Lubrication............... 401
B-Pillar Location........................ 309
Brake Assist System...................... 296
Brake Control System, Electronic............. 295
Brake Fluid............................ 441Brake System........................291,410
Anti-Lock (ABS)....................291,295
Disc Brakes.......................... 410
Fluid Check.......................... 410
Hoses.............................. 411
Master Cylinder....................... 410
Parking............................. 290
Warning Light.....................195,199
Brakes............................... 291
Brake/Transmission Interlock............... 276
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle........ 74
Bulb Replacement....................... 430
Bulbs, Light............................ 430
Calibration, Compass..................... 166
Camera, Rear........................... 156
Capacities, Fluid........................ 439
Caps, Filler
Fuel................................ 336
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Adding Coolant (Antifreeze).............. 405
Coolant Capacity...................... 439
Coolant Level......................403,407
Disposal of Used Coolant................ 407
Drain, Flush, and Refill.................. 404
Inspection........................... 407
Points to Remember.................... 407
Pressure Cap......................... 406
Radiator Cap......................... 406
Selection of Coolant (Antifreeze)......404,439,440
Temperature Gauge..................... 193
Cruise Control (Speed Control).............. 149
Cup Holder............................ 181
Customer Assistance..................... 452
Data Recorder, Event...................... 62
Daytime Running Lights................... 141
Dealer Service.......................... 390
Defroster, Rear Window................... 267Defroster, Windshield.............76,254,259,260
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers................. 144
Diagnostic System, Onboard................ 387
Digital Video Disc (DVD) Player..........206,236
Dimmer Switch, Headlight................. 194
Dipsticks
Automatic Transmission................. 411
Oil (Engine).......................... 391
Power Steering........................ 399
Disarming, Theft System................... 19
Disc Brakes............................ 410
Disposal
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)............... 407
Door Locks............................. 28
Door Locks, Automatic.................... 162
Door Opener, Garage..................... 168
Drive Belts............................ 394
Drive Shaft Universal Joints................ 401
INDEX 465
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