NOTE:The wipers will automatically return to the
“park” position if you turn OFF the ignition switch while
they are operating. The wipers will resume operation
when you turn the ignition switch back to the ON
position.
CAUTION!
•Turn the windshield wipers OFF when driving
through an automatic car wash. Damage to the
windshield wipers may result if the wiper control
is left in any position other than OFF.
•In cold weather, always turn OFF the wiper switch
and allow the wipers to return to the park position
before turning OFF the engine. If the wiper switch
is left ON and the wipers freeze to the windshield,
damage to the wiper motor may occur when the
vehicle is restarted.
(Continued)
CAUTION! (Continued)
•Always remove any buildup of snow that prevents
the windshield wiper blades from returning to the
park position. If the windshield wiper control is
turned OFF and the blades cannot return to the
park position, damage to the wiper motor may
occur.
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 107
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
Engine Compartment — 2.4L ............ 277
Onboard Diagnostic System — OBD II ..... 278
▫ Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message .......... 278
Emissions Inspection And Maintenance
Programs ............................ 278
Replacement Parts .................... 280
Dealer Service ....................... 280
Maintenance Procedures ................ 281
▫ Engine Oil ........................ 281 ▫
Engine Oil Filter .................... 284
▫ Engine Air Cleaner Filter .............. 285
▫ Maintenance-Free Battery ............. 286
▫ Air Conditioner Maintenance ........... 287
▫ Body Lubrication ................... 288
▫ Windshield Wiper Blades ............. 289
▫ Adding Washer Fluid ................ 289
▫ Exhaust System .................... 290
▫ Cooling System .................... 292
7
hood latching components to ensure proper function.
When performing other underhood services, the hood
latch, release mechanism and safety catch should be
cleaned and lubricated.
The external lock cylinders should be lubricated twice a
year, preferably in the Fall and Spring. Apply a small
amount of a high quality lubricant, such as MOPAR
Lock Cylinder Lubricant or equivalent directly into the
lock cylinder.
Windshield Wiper Blades
Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the
windshield periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a
mild non-abrasive cleaner, or use the washer solvent.
This will remove accumulations of salt, waxes or road
film and help reduce streaking and smearing.Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods
may cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use
washer fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt
from a dry windshield. Avoid using the wiper blades to
remove frost or ice from the windshield. To avoid dam-
aging the blades, make sure that they are not frozen to the
glass before turning them on. Keep the blade rubber out
of contact with petroleum products such as engine oil,
gasoline, etc.
Adding Washer Fluid
The washer fluid reservoir is located in the rear of the
engine compartment on the passenger side and should be
checked for fluid level at regular intervals. Fill the
reservoir with windshield washer solvent (not radiator
antifreeze) and operate the system for a few seconds to
flush out the residual water.
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 289
