2008 JEEP WRANGLER brakes

An electronically-actuated trailer brake controller is
required when towing a trailer with electronically
actuated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with
a hydraulic surge-actuated brake system, an electronic
brake controller is not required.
Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000
lbs (454 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000
lbs (907 kg).
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (454 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they
should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this
could lead to accelerated brake lining wear, higher
brake pedal effort, and longer stopping distances.
WARNING!
Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle’s hy-
draulic brake lines. It can overload your brake sys-
tem and cause it to fail. You might not have brakes
when you need them and could have an accident.
Towing any trailer will increase your stopping dis-
tance. When towing you should allow for additional
space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front
of you. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights & Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.
356 STARTING AND OPERATING

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.
Ensure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or
collapsed. Inspect all hose connections such as clamps
and couplings to make sure they are secure and no leaksare present. Components should be replaced immedi-
ately if there is any evidence of degradation that could
cause failure.
Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule in Section 8 for
suggested service intervals.
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.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 399
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Tires ............................... 317
Locking Axle ........................ 290,291
Locks Door .............................. 31,32
Power Door ........................... 33
Steering Wheel ......................... 14
Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren
(LATCH) ............................ 68,69
Lubrication, Body ....................... 392
Maintenance Free Battery .................. 389
Maintenance Procedures ................... 383
Maintenance Schedule .................... 428
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) . . 213,380
Manual, Service ......................... 441
Manual Transmission .................. 275,403
Fluid Level Check ...................... 404
Lubricant Selection ..................... 403
Shift Speeds .......................... 276 Master Cylinder (Brakes)
.................. 400
Mini-Trip Computer ...................... 215
Mirrors ................................ 83
Outside .............................. 84
Rearview ............................. 83
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle ............. 8
Modular Hard Top ....................... 125
Monitor, Tire Pressure System ............... 330
Mopar Parts ......................... 382,440
MP3 Player ............................ 250
Multi-Function Control Lever ................ 97
Navigation Radio ........................ 250
Navigation System ....................... 250
New Vehicle Break-In Period ................ 75
Occupant Restraints ....................... 40
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel) .............. 336
Odometer ............................. 211
INDEX 455
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