2009 DODGE VIPER checking oil

mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose connections
could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger
compartment. In addition, inspect the exhaust system
each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil
change. Replace or adjust as required.
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside the
Vehicle
Seat Belts
Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts,
frays and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced
immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system.
Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after an accident if
they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing,
etc.). If there is any question regarding belt or retractor
condition, replace the belt.
Airbag Warning Light
The light should come on and remain on for six to eight
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned ON. If the light does not come on or flickers
during or after the six to eight seconds, or flickers or
comes on while driving, have the system checked by an
authorized dealer.
Defrosters
Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should be able to
feel the air directed against the windshield. If the wind-
shield defroster is not working properly, have the system
checked as soon as possible by an authorized dealer.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61
2

DEALER SERVICE
Your authorized dealer has the qualified service person-
nel, special tools, and equipment to perform all service
operations in an expert manner. Service Manuals are
available which include detailed service information for
your vehicle. Refer to these manuals before attempting
any procedure yourself.
NOTE:Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or around a
motor vehicle. Only do service work for which you
have the knowledge and the proper equipment. If
you have any doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a competent me-
chanic.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
The pages that follow contain the maintenance service
recommendations by the engineers who designed your
vehicle.
Besides the maintenance items for which there are fixed
maintenance intervals, there are other items, which
should operate satisfactorily without periodic mainte-
nance. However, if a malfunction of these items does
occur, it could adversely affect the engine or vehicle
performance. These items should be inspected if a mal-
function is observed or suspected.
Engine Oil
Checking Oil Level
To assure proper engine lubrication, the engine oil must
be maintained at the correct level. Check the oil level at
regular intervals, such as every fuel stop.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 203
7

The best time to check the oil level is approximately five
minutes after a fully warmed engine is turned off or
before starting the engine after it has sat overnight.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground also
will improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Add
oil only when the level is below the SAFE mark.
CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling will cause oil aeration or
loss of oil pressure. This could damage your engine.
Change Engine Oil
Road conditions and your kind of driving affect the
interval at which your oil should be changed. Check the
following list to see if any apply to you.
•Day or night temperatures are below 32°F (0°C)
•Stop and go driving
•Extensive engine idling
•Driving in dusty conditions
•Short trip driving of less than 10 miles (16.2 km)
•More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high
speeds during hot weather, above 90°F (32°C)
NOTE:IfANYof these apply to you, then change your
engine oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or three months,
whichever comes first, and follow “Maintenance Sched-
ule B.” Refer to Section 8 of this manual.
If none of these apply to you, then change your engine oil
at every interval shown on “Maintenance Schedule A.
Refer to Section 8 of this manual.
NOTE:Under no circumstances should oil change in-
tervals exceed 6,000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months,
whichever comes first.
204 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

At Each Stop for Fuel
•Check the engine oil level about five minutes after a
fully warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level
while the vehicle is on level ground will improve the
accuracy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when
the level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and add if
required.
Once a Month
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
•Inspect the battery, and clean and tighten the terminals
as required.
•Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, power steering, and transmission,
and add as needed.
•Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Inspect the exhaust system.
NOTE:Also, inspect the exhaust system if you notice a
change in the sound of the exhaust system, or if the
exhaust fumes can be detected inside the vehicle.
•Inspect the brake hoses.
•Inspect the suspension components.
•Lubricate door hinges and check springs.
•Check the engine coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
•Check power steering fluid level.
252 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Door Locks............................. 25
Door Locks, Automatic.................... 27
Doors................................. 25
Driving
On Slippery Surfaces.................... 141
Through Flowing, Rising, or Shallow
Standing Water........................ 142
Electric Remote Mirrors.................... 78
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light...... 104
Emergency Brake........................ 145
Emergency, In Case of
Freeing Vehicle When Stuck............... 195
Hazard Warning Flasher................. 180
Jump Starting......................... 192
Overheating.......................... 180
Towing............................. 196
Emission Control System Maintenance......201,250Engine............................... 199
Air Cleaner.......................... 206
Break-In Recommendations................ 59
Checking Oil Level..................... 203
Compartment......................... 199
Coolant (Antifreeze).................217,247
Cooling..........................108,216
Exhaust Gas Caution................31,60,174
Fails to Start.......................... 136
Flooded, Starting...................... 136
Fuel Requirements..................170,246
Oil ...........................203,246,247
Oil Change Interval.................... 204
Oil Disposal.......................... 206
Oil Filler Cap......................... 205
Oil Filter............................ 206
Oil Selection.......................205,246
Overheating.......................108,180
Engine Oil Viscosity...................205,246
INDEX 283
10

Checking............................ 203
Dipstick............................. 203
Disposal............................ 206
Filter............................206,247
Filter Disposal........................ 206
Materials Added to..................... 206
Pressure Gauge....................... 108
Recommendation...................205,246
Viscosity..........................205,246
Oil Filter, Selection....................... 206
Onboard Diagnostic System..............200,201
Operator Manual (Owner’s Manual)............ 4
Outside Rearview Mirrors.................. 77
Overheating, Engine...................... 180
Owner’s Manual (Operator Manual).........4,275
Paint Care............................. 226
Paint Damage.......................... 226
Panic Alarm............................ 21Parking Brake.......................... 145
Parking On Hill......................... 145
Passing Light........................... 86
Pedals, Adjustable........................ 92
Pets.................................. 59
Pets, Transporting........................ 59
Placard, Tire and Loading Information......... 156
Polishing and Waxing..................... 227
Power
Accessory Delay......................13,28
Brakes.............................. 147
Distribution Center (Fuses)............... 230
Door Locks........................... 26
Mirrors.............................. 78
Steering............................. 144
Windows............................. 28
Pregnant Women and Seat Belts.............. 41
Programming Transmitters
(Remote Keyless Entry).................... 22
INDEX 289
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