2009 DODGE AVENGER service indicator

These indicators are molded into the bottom of the tread
grooves. They will appear as bands when the tread depth
becomes approximately 1/16 in (2 mm). When the tread
is worn to the tread wear indicators, the tire should be
replaced.
Life of Tire
The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying
factors including but not limited to:
•Driving style
•Tire pressure
•Distance driven
WARNING!
Tires and spare tire should be replaced after six years,
regardless of the remaining tread. Failure to follow
this warning can result in sudden tire failure. You
could lose control and have an accident resulting in
serious injury or death.
Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with as little
exposure to light as possible. Protect tires from contact
with oil, grease, and gasoline.
310 STARTING AND OPERATING

Replacement Tires
The tires on your new vehicle provide a balance of many
characteristics. They should be inspected regularly for
wear and correct cold tire inflation pressure. The manu-
facturer strongly recommends that you use tires equiva-
lent to the originals in size, quality and performance
when replacement is needed (refer to the paragraph on
“Tread Wear Indicators”). Refer to the “Tire and Loading
Information” placard for the size designation of your tire.
The service description and load identification will be
found on the original equipment tire. Failure to use
equivalent replacement tires may adversely affect the
safety, handling, and ride of your vehicle. We recommend
that you contact your original equipment or an autho-
rized tire dealer with any questions you may have on tire
specifications or capability.WARNING!
•Do not use a tire, wheel size or rating other than
that specified for your vehicle. Some combinations
of unapproved tires and wheels may change sus-
pension dimensions and performance characteris-
tics, resulting in changes to steering, handling, and
braking of your vehicle. This can cause unpredict-
able handling and stress to steering and suspen-
sion components. You could lose control and have
an accident resulting in serious injury or death.
Use only the tire and wheel sizes with load ratings
approved for your vehicle.
•Never use a tire with a smaller load index or
capacity, other than what was originally equipped
on your vehicle. Using a tire with a smaller load
index could result in tire overloading and failure.
You could lose control and have an accident.
(Continued)
STARTING AND OPERATING 311
5

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated Onboard
Diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors
the performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic
transaxle control systems. When these systems are oper-
ating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent per-
formance and fuel economy, as well as maintaining
engine emissions well within current government regu-
lations.
If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist an authorized service technician in making repairs.
Although your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see your authorized dealer for service as
soon as possible.CAUTION!
•Prolonged driving with the “Malfunction Indica-
tor Light” on could cause further damage to the
emission control system. It could also affect fuel
economy and driveability. The vehicle must be
serviced before any emissions tests can be per-
formed.
•If the “Malfunction Indicator Light” is flashing
while the engine is running, severe catalytic con-
verter damage and power loss will soon occur.
Immediate service is required.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message
After fuel is added, the vehicle diagnostic system can
determine if the fuel filler cap is possibly loose or
improperly installed. A “GASCAP” message will be
displayed in the instrument cluster. Tighten the gas cap
until aclickingsound is heard. This is an indication that
370 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

the gas cap is properly tightened. Press the trip odometer
“Reset” button to turn off the message. If the problem
persists, the message will appear the next time the
vehicle is started. This might indicate a damaged cap. If
the problem is detected twice in a row, the system will
turn on the “Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).” Resolv-
ing the problem will turn the MIL light off.
EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMS
In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass
an inspection of your vehicle’s emissions control system.
Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.
For states that require an Inspection and Mainte-
nance (I/M), this check verifies the Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL) is functioning and is not on
when the engine is running, and that the OBD II system
is ready for testing.Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The OBD II
system maynotbe ready if your vehicle was recently
serviced, recently had a dead battery or a battery replace-
ment. If the OBD II system should be determined not
ready for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test.
Your vehicle has a simple ignition key-actuated test,
which you can use prior to going to the test station. To
check if your vehicle’s OBD II system is ready, you must
do the following:
1. Insert your ignition key into the ignition switch.
2. Turn the ignition to the ON position, but do not crank
or start the engine.
3. If you crank or start the engine, you will have to start
this test over.
4. As soon as you turn your key to the ON position, you
will see the MIL symbol come on as part of a normal bulb
check.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 371
7

EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The Scheduled Maintenance services listed inbold type
must be done at the times or mileages specified to ensure
the continued proper functioning of the emissions control
system. These and all other maintenance services in-
cluded in this manual, should be done to provide best
vehicle performance and reliability. More frequent main-
tenance may be needed for vehicles in severe operating
conditions, such as dusty areas and very short trip
driving.
Inspection and service should also be done anytime a
malfunction is suspected.
NOTE:Maintenance, replacement or repair of the emis-
sions control devices and systems on your vehicle may be
performed by any automotive repair establishment or
individual using any automotive part that has been
certified pursuant to U.S. EPA or in the State of Califor-
nia, California Air Resources Board regulations.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
The oil change indicator system will remind you that it is
time to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance.
On Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
equipped vehicles “Oil Change Required” will be dis-
played in the EVIC and a single chime will sound,
indicating that an oil change is necessary.
On Non-EVIC equipped vehicles “Change Oil” will flash
in the instrument cluster odometer and a single chime
will sound, indicating that an oil change is necessary.
Based on engine operation conditions the oil change
indicator message will illuminate, this means that service
is required for your vehicle. Have your vehicle serviced
as soon as possible, within the next 500 miles (805 km).
422 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
8
M
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D
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Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren
(LATCH).............................. 74
Lubrication, Body....................... 381
Lumbar Support........................ 127
Maintenance Free Battery.................. 378
Maintenance, General..................... 373
Maintenance Procedures................... 373
Maintenance Schedule.................... 422
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) . . 186,371
Manual, Service......................... 445
Map/Reading Lights..................... 134
Master Cylinder (Brakes).................. 391
Methanol............................. 324
Mini-Trip Computer...................... 192
Mirrors................................ 87
Automatic Dimming..................... 88
Electric Powered....................... 89
Outside.............................. 90Rearview............................. 87
Vanity............................... 90
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle............. 7
Monitor, Tire Pressure System............... 314
Mopar Parts.........................372,444
MTBE/ETBE........................... 324
New Vehicle Break-In Period................ 79
Occupant Restraints.....................60,63
Occupant Restraints (Sedan).........41,55,56,60,61
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel).............. 323
Odometer............................. 180
Trip .............................180,182
Oil Change Indicator................181,191,422
Oil Change Indicator, Reset..............181,191
Oil, Engine.........................373,418
Capacity............................ 417
Change Interval...............181,191,374,422
460 INDEX

Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight.............. 340
Towing............................... 336
24-Hour Towing Assistance............... 105
Disabled Vehicle....................... 362
Guide.............................. 339
Recreational.......................... 346
Weight.............................. 339
Towing Assistance....................... 105
Trailer Towing.......................... 336
Cooling System Tips.................... 346
Hitches............................. 338
Minimum Requirements................. 341
Trailer and Tongue Weight................ 340
Trailer Towing Guide..................... 339
Trailer Weight.......................... 339
Transaxle............................. 270
Additives............................ 394
Automatic......................13,270,392
Autostick............................ 276Filter............................... 394
Maintenance.......................... 392
Operation........................... 270
Overdrive........................... 274
Selection of Lubricant................... 419
Transmission
Range Indicator....................... 179
Transmitter Battery Service
(Remote Keyless Entry).................... 26
Transmitter, Garage Door Opener (HomeLink) . . 147
Transmitter Programming
(Remote Keyless Entry).................... 26
Transporting Pets........................ 79
Tread Wear Indicators.................... 309
Trip Odometer.......................... 180
Trip Odometer Reset Button................ 182
Trunk Release, Emergency................39,40
Trunk Release Remote Control............... 39
Turn Signals......................138,183,413
466 INDEX

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 RemovalKey-In-Ignition ReminderLocking Doors With The KeySENTRY KEY Replacement KeysSentry Key ProgrammingGeneral InformationVEHICLE SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED Rearming The SystemTo Arm The SystemTo Disarm The
SystemILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) - IF EQUIPPED To Unlock the DoorsTo Lock the DoorsTo Unlatch the TrunkUsing the Express Down Windows Feature - If EquippedUsing the Panic AlarmProgramming Additional
RKE TransmittersBattery ReplacementGeneral InformationREMOTE START SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED How to Use Remote StartDOOR LOCKS Manual Door LocksPowerDoor LocksChild Protection Door Lock System (Rear Doors)POWER WINDOWS Power Window
SwitchesAuto Window Down - If EquippedAuto Window Up - If EquippedReset Auto UpWindow Lockout SwitchWind BuffetingTRUNK RELEASE TRUNK SAFETY WARNING Trunk Internal Emergency ReleaseOCCUPANT RESTRAINTS Lap/Shoulder BeltsAdjustable Upper
Shoulder Belt AnchorageRear Seat BeltsSeat Belt PretensionersEnhanced Seat Belt Reminder System (BeltAlert) BeltAlert ProgrammingAutomatic Locking ModeSeat Belts and Pregnant WomenSeat Belt ExtenderSupplemental Restraint System (SRS) - AirbagAirbag
System ComponentsFront Seat Airbag FeaturesAirbag Deployment Sensors and ControlsEvent Data Recorder (EDR)Child RestraintsENGINE 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 MIRRORS Inside Day/Night Mirror - If EquippedAutomatic Dimming Mirror - If EquippedPower MirrorsAdjusting Side View MirrorsIlluminated Vanity Mirrors - If Equipped
HANDS-FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect) - IF EQUIPPED OperationPhone Call FeaturesUConnect System FeaturesAdvanced Phone ConnectivityThings You Should Know About Your UConnect SystemGeneral InformationVOICE RECOGNITION SYSTEM (VR) - IF
EQUIPPED Voice Recognition System (VR) OperationCommandsVoice TrainingSEATS Manual Front Seat AdjustmentsPower Seats - If EquippedHeated Seats- If EquippedFold-Flat Front Passenger SeatAdjustable Head RestraintsFolding Rear SeatFolding Rear Seat
Center ArmrestTO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD LIGHTS Map/Reading/Interior LightsHeadlights, Parking Lights and Instrument Panel LightsAutomatic Headlight System - If EquippedHeadlight Time DelayFlash-To-PassDaytime Running Lights (DRL) - If EquippedLights
On ReminderFog Lights - If EquippedTurn SignalsHigh Beam/Low Beam Select SwitchWINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS Intermittent Wiper SystemMist FeatureHeadlights With Wipers Feature (Available With Auto Headlights Only)Windshield Washers
TILT/TELESCOPING STEERING COLUMN ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL - IF EQUIPPED To ActivateTo Set At A Desired SpeedTo DeactivateTo Resume SpeedTo Vary TheSpeed SettingTo Accelerate For PassingGARAGE DOOR OPENER - IF EQUIPPED
Programming HomelinkGate Operator/Canadian ProgrammingSecurityTroubleshooting TipsGeneral InformationPOWER SUNROOF - IF EQUIPPED Sunroof OperationAuto Sunroof Express With Anti-Pinch Protection - If EquippedSunshade OperationWind BuffetingSunroof
MaintenanceIgnition Off OperationELECTRICAL POWER OUTLETS CIGAR LIGHTER AND ASH RECEIVER - IF EQUIPPED CUPHOLDERS Heated or Cooled Cupholder - If EquippedRear Bottle HoldersSTORAGE Drivers Side Sunglass Holder - If EquippedCargo Area
CONSOLE FEATURES Dual Storage BinsVideo Console - If EquippedREAR WINDOW FEATURES Rear Window Defroster - If EquippedBEVERAGE COOLER STORAGE BIN - IF EQUIPPED UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL INSTRUMENT PANEL
FEATURES INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - BASE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - PREMIUM INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER (EVIC) - IFEQUIPPED EVIC DisplaysOil Change RequiredTrip FunctionsCompass Display
Personal Settings (Customer-Programmable Features)SALES CODE REQ - AM/FM STEREO RADIO AND 6-DISC CD/DVD CHANGER (MP3/WMA AUX JACK) Operating Instructions - Radio ModeOperation Instructions - (DISC MODE for CD and MP3/WMA Audio Play,
DVD-VIDEO)Notes On Playing MP3/WMA FilesLIST Button (DISC Mode for MP3/WMA Play)INFO Button (DISC Mode for MP3/WMA Play)AM/FM/CD/DVD MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM RADIO (RER/REN) - IF EQUIPPED Operating Instructions - Voice Recognition System (VR)
- If EquippedOperating Instructions - Hands-Free Communication (UConnect) - If EquippedClock Setting ProcedureSALES CODE RES - AM/FM STEREO RADIOWITH CD PLAYER (MP3 AUX JACK) Operating Instructions - Radio ModeOperation Instructions - CD MODE
For CD And MP3 Audio PlayNotes on Playing MP3 FilesOperation Instructions - Auxiliary ModeSALES CODE RES/RSC - AM/FM STEREO RADIO WITH CD PLAYER (MP3 AUX JACK) AND SIRIUS RADIO Operating Instructions - Radio ModeOperation Instructions - CD
MODE for CD and MP3 Audio PlayNotes On Playing MP3 FilesLIST Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play)INFO Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play)SATELLITE RADIO - IF EQUIPPED(REN/REQ/RER/RES/REU RADIOS ONLY) System ActivationElectronic Serial Number/Sirius
Identification Number (ESN/SID)Selecting Satellite ModeSatellite AntennaReception QualityOperating Instructions - Satellite ModeOperatingInstructions - Hands-Free Phone (If Equipped)Operating Instructions - Video Entertainment System (VES) (If Equipped)VIDEO
ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM (VES) - IF EQUIPPED REMOTE SOUND SYSTEM CONTROLS - IF EQUIPPED Operation with RES / REQ AM/FM Stereo Radio with CD PlayerOperation with RER Multi-Media SystemCD/DVD MAINTENANCE RADIO OPERATION AND
CELLULAR PHONES CLIMATE CONTROLS Manual Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) - If Equipped Operating TipsSTARTING AND OPERATING STARTING PROCEDURES Normal StartingTip Start FeatureExtremely
Cold Weather (Below -20 degrees F or -29 degrees C)If Engine Fails to StartAfter StartingENGINE BLOCK HEATER - IF EQUIPPED AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE Brake/Transaxle Interlock SystemAutomatic Transaxle Ignition Interlock System4-Speed/6-Speed Automatic
Transaxle - If EquippedAUTOSTICK - IF EQUIPPED OperationGeneral InformationDRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES AccelerationTractionDRIVING THROUGH WATER Flowing/Rising WaterShallow Standing WaterPOWER STEERING Power Steering Fluid Check
PARKING BRAKE BRAKE SYSTEM ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEM Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)Traction Control System (TCS)Brake Assist System (BAS)Electronic Stability Program (ESP)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 TireReplacement TiresTIRE CHAINS SNOW TIRES TIRE ROTATION RECOMMENDATIONS TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM (TPMS) Base SystemPremium System - If EquippedGeneral InformationFUEL REQUIREMENTS 2.4L and 2.7L Engine3.5L Engine
Reformulated GasolineGasoline/Oxygenate BlendsE-85 Usage In Non-Flex Fuel VehiclesMMT in GasolineMaterials Added to FuelFuel System CautionsCarbon Monoxide WarningsFLEXIBLE FUEL- 2.7L ONLY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA EMISSION STATES) E-85 General
InformationETHANOL FUEL (E-85)Fuel RequirementsSelection of Engine Oil For Flexible Fuel Vehicles (E-85) and Gasoline VehiclesStartingCruising RangeReplacement PartsMaintenanceADDING FUEL Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap)Loose Filler Cap MessageVEHICLE
LOADING Vehicle Certification LabelGross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)OverloadingLoadingTRAILER TOWING Common Towing DefinitionsTrailer Hitch ClassificationTrailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)Trailer and
Tongue WeightTowing RequirementsTowing TipsRECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.) Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle (Flat towing with all four wheels on the ground)WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES HAZARD WARNING FLASHER IF
YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS Engine Oil Overheating (2.4L Engine Only) - If EquippedJACKING AND TIRE CHANGING Jack LocationSpare Tire StowagePreparations For JackingJacking InstructionsJUMP-STARTING PROCEDURE FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE TOWING
A DISABLED VEHICLE Towing With The Ignition KeyTowing Without The Ignition KeyTowing This Vehicle Behind Another VehicleTowing This Vehicle BehindAnother Vehicle With A Tow DollyTowing Without Power - Override Transaxle Interlock SystemMAINTAINING YOUR
VEHICLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT - 2.4L ENGINE COMPARTMENT - 2.7L ENGINE COMPARTMENT - 3.5L ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM - OBD II Loose Fuel Filler Cap MessageEMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS REPLACEMENT
PARTS DEALER SERVICE MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES Engine OilEngine Oil FilterEngine Air Cleaner FilterMaintenance-Free BatteryAir Conditioner MaintenanceA/C Air Filter - If EquippedBody LubricationWindshield Wiper BladesAdding Washer FluidExhaust System
Cooling SystemBrake SystemAutomatic TransaxleAppearance Care And Protection From CorrosionCleaning Center Console CupholdersFUSES Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM)VEHICLE STORAGE REPLACEMENT BULBS BULB REPLACEMENT HeadlightFog
LightsTaillights, Rear Turn Signals And Backup LightsLicense Plate LightCenter High-Mounted Stop LightFLUIDS AND CAPACITIES FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS, AND GENUINE PARTS EngineMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE Required Maintenance IntervalsIF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE SUGGESTIONS FOR OBTAINING SERVICE FOR YOUR VEHICLE Prepare For The AppointmentPrepare A ListBe Reasonable With RequestsIF YOU NEED
ASSISTANCE Chrysler LLC Customer CenterChrysler 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