Airbag Warning LightYou will want to have the airbags
ready to inflate for your protection
in a collision. The airbag system is
designed to be maintenance free,
if any of the following occurs, have
an authorized dealer service the
airbag system immediately.
• The Airbag Warning Light does not come on
during the four to eight seconds when the
ignition switch is first turned to the ON/RUN
position.
• The Airbag Warning Light remains on after
the four to eight-second interval.
• The Airbag Warning Light comes on intermit-
tently or remains on while driving. NOTE:
If the speedometer, tachometer, or any en-
gine related gauges are not working, the
Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may
also be disabled. The airbags may not be
ready to inflate for your protection. Promptly
check the fuse block for blown fuses. Refer
to the label located on the inside of the fuse
block cover for the proper airbag fuses. See
your authorized dealer if the fuse is good.
Event Data Recorder (EDR)This vehicle is equipped with an event data
recorder (EDR). The main purpose of an EDR is
to record, in certain crash or near crash-like
situations, such as an air bag deployment or
hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in
understanding how a vehicle’s systems per- formed. The EDR is designed to record data
related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems
for a short period of time, typically 30 seconds
or less. The EDR in this vehicle is designed to
record such data as:
•
How various systems in your vehicle were
operating;
• Whether or not the driver and passenger
safety belts were buckled/fastened;
• How far (if at all) the driver was depressing
the accelerator and/or brake pedal; and,
• How fast the vehicle was traveling.
These data can help provide a better under-
standing of the circumstances in which crashes
and injuries occur.
45
dealer for service. It is likely the vehicle has lost
power steering assistance. Refer to “Electronic
Vehicle Information (EVIC)” in “Understanding
Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
If the “POWER STEERING SYSTEM OVER
TEMP” message and an icon are displayed on
the EVIC screen, it indicates that extreme steer-
ing maneuvers may have occurred, which
caused an over temperature condition in the
power steering system. You will lose power
steering assistance momentarily until the over
temperature condition no longer exists. Once
driving conditions are safe, then pull over and
let vehicle idle for a few moments until the light
turns off. Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Informa-
tion (EVIC)” in “Understanding Your Instrument
Panel” for further information.
NOTE:
•Even if power steering assistance is no
longer operational, it is still possible to
steer the vehicle. Under these conditions
there will be a substantial increase in
steering effort, especially at very low ve-
hicle speeds and during parking maneu-
vers. •
If the condition persists, see your autho-
rized dealer for service.
5.7L EngineThe standard power steering system will give
you good vehicle response and increased ease
of maneuverability in tight spaces. The system
will provide mechanical steering capability if
power assist is lost.
If for some reason the power assist is inter-
rupted, it will still be possible to steer your
vehicle. Under these conditions, you will ob-
serve a substantial increase in steering effort,
especially at very low vehicle speeds and
during parking maneuvers.
NOTE:
• Increased noise levels at the end of the
steering wheel travel are considered nor-
mal and do not indicate that there is a
problem with the power steering system.
• Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the
power steering pump may make noise for
a short amount of time. This is due to the
cold, thick fluid in the steering system. This noise should be considered normal,
and it does not in any way damage the
steering system.WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced power
steering assist could pose a safety risk to
yourself and others. Service should be ob-
tained as soon as possible.
CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system at
the end of the steering wheel travel will in-
crease the steering fluid temperature and it
should be avoided when possible. Damage to
the power steering pump may occur.
Power Steering Fluid CheckChecking the power steering fluid level at a
defined service interval is not required. The
fluid should only be checked if a leak is sus-
pected, abnormal noises are apparent, and/or
the system is not functioning as anticipated.
Coordinate inspection efforts through an autho-
rized dealer.
221
CAUTION!
•Failure to properly maintain your vehicle or
perform repairs and service when neces-
sary could result in more costly repairs,
damage to other components or negatively
impact vehicle performance. Immediately
have potential malfunctions examined by
an authorized dealership or qualified repair
center.
• Your vehicle has been built with improved
fluids that protect the performance and
durability of your vehicle and also allow
extended maintenance intervals. Do not
use chemical flushes in these components
as the chemicals can damage your engine,
transmission, power steering or air condi-
tioning. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty. If a flush is
needed because of component malfunc-
tion, use only the specified fluid for the
flushing procedure.Engine Oil – Gasoline Engines
Checking Oil Level
To assure proper lubrication of your vehicle’s
engine, the engine oil must be maintained at
the correct level. The best time to check the
engine oil level is about five minutes after a fully
warmed up engine is shut off or before starting
the engine after it has sat overnight.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level
ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level
readings. Maintain the oil level in the SAFE level
range. Adding 1 U.S. Quart (0.95L) of oil when
the level is at the bottom of the SAFE range will
result in the level being at the top of the SAFE
range.
CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will
cause aeration or loss of oil pressure. This
could damage your engine.
Change Engine Oil
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals. NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 7,500 miles (12 000 km) or
six months whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Selection – Non ACEA
Categories
For best performance and maximum protection
under all types of operating conditions, the
manufacturer only recommends engine oils
that are API certified and meet the require-
ments of Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.
American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine
Oil Identification Symbol
This symbol means
that the oil has
been certified by
the American Pe-
troleum Institute
(API). The manu-
facturer only rec-
ommends API Cer-
tified engine oils.
274
and the recommended maintenance intervals
for oil and filter changes are followed.
Materials Added to Engine OilsDo not add supplemental materials, other than
leak detection dyes, to the engine oil. Engine oil
is an engineered product, and its performance
may be impaired by supplemental additives.
Disposing of Used Engine Oil and
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 local authorized 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 FilterThe engine oil filter should be replaced with a
new filter at every oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
The manufacturer’s engines have a full-flow
type disposable oil filter. Use a filter of this type
for replacement. The quality of replacementfilters varies considerably. Only high-quality
filters should be used to assure most efficient
service. MOPAR
engine oil filters are high-
quality oil filters and are recommended.
Engine Air Cleaner FilterRefer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
The air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc) can provide a measure of protection in
the case of engine backfire. Do not remove
the air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc.) unless such removal is necessary for
repair or maintenance. Make sure that no one
is near the engine compartment before start-
ing the vehicle with the air induction system
(air cleaner, hoses, etc.) removed. Failure to
do so can result in serious personal injury.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement engine air cleaner
filters varies considerably. Only high quality
filters should be used to assure most efficient service. MOPAR
engine air cleaner filters are
a high quality filter and are recommended.
Maintenance-Free BatteryYour vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-
free battery. You will never have to add water,
nor is periodic maintenance required.
WARNING!
• Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and
can burn or even blind you. Do not allow
battery fluid to contact your eyes, skin or
clothing. Do not lean over a battery when
attaching clamps. If acid splashes in eyes
or on skin, flush the area immediately with
large amounts of water.
• Battery gas is flammable and explosive.
Keep flame or sparks away from the bat-
tery. Do not use a booster battery or any
other booster source with an output greater
than 12 Volts. Do not allow cable clamps to
touch each other.
• Battery posts, terminals and related acces-
sories contain lead and lead compounds.
Wash hands after handling.
276
attention should also be given to 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 lubri-
cated twice a year, preferably in the Fall and
Spring. Apply a small amount of a high quality
lubricant, such as MOPARLock Cylinder Lu-
bricant or equivalent directly into the lock cyl-
inder.
Windshield Wiper BladesClean the rubber edges of the wiper blades
and the windshield periodically with a sponge
or soft cloth and a mild nonabrasive cleaner to
remove accumulations of salt or road film.
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 wipe frost or
ice from the windshield. Keep the blade rubber
out of contact with petroleum products such as
engine oil, gasoline, etc. NOTE:
Life expectancy of wiper blades varies de-
pending on geographical area and fre-
quency of use. Poor performance of blades
may be present with chattering, marks, wa-
ter lines or wet spots. If any of these condi-
tions are present, clean the wiper blades or
replace as necessary.
Adding Washer FluidThe fluid reservoir for the windshield washers
and the rear window washer is shared. The fluid
reservoir is located in the engine compartment,
be sure to check the fluid level at regular
intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield
washer solvent only (not radiator antifreeze).
When refilling the washer fluid reservoir, take
some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or
towel and wipe clean the wiper blades, this will
help blade performance. To prevent freeze-up
of your windshield washer system in cold
weather, select a solution or mixture that meets
or exceeds the temperature range of your cli-
mate. This rating information can be found on
most washer fluid containers.
WARNING!
Commercially available windshield washer
solvents are flammable. They could ignite and
burn you. Care must be exercised when filling
or working around the washer solution.
Exhaust SystemThe best protection against carbon monoxide
entry into the vehicle body is a properly main-
tained engine 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; or when the under-
side or rear of the vehicle is damaged; have an
authorized technician inspect the complete ex-
haust system and adjacent body areas for
broken, damaged, deteriorated, or misposi-
tioned 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 as
required.
278
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Maintenance Schedule – Gasoline
Engine
The oil change indicator system will remind you
that it is time to take your vehicle in for sched-
uled maintenance.
On Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC) equipped vehicles “Oil Change Re-
quired” will be displayed in the EVIC and a
single chime will sound, indicating that an oil
change is necessary.
The oil change indicator message will illumi-
nate approximately 7,000 miles (11 200 km)
after the most recent oil change was per-
formed. Have your vehicle serviced as soon as
possible, within 500 miles (800 km).
NOTE:
•The oil change indicator message will not
monitor the time since the last oil change.
Change your vehicles oil if it has been
6 months since your last oil change even
if the oil change indicator message is
NOT illuminated. •
Change your engine oil more often if you
drive your vehicle off-road for an ex-
tended period of time.
• Under no circumstances should oil
change intervals exceed 7,500 miles
(12 000 km) or 6 months, whichever
comes first.
Your authorized dealer will reset the oil change
indicator message after completing the sched-
uled oil change. If this scheduled oil change is
performed by someone other than your autho-
rized dealer the message can be reset by
referring to the steps described under ”Elec-
tronic Vehicle Information Center” in “Under-
standing Your Instrument Panel” for further in-
formation.
At Each Stop for Fuel
• Check the engine oil level about 5 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 reser-
voir, brake master cylinder, power steering
and transmission (5.7L only) and add as
needed.
• Check all lights and other electrical items for
correct operation.
At Each Oil Change
• Change the engine oil filter.
• Inspect the brake hoses and lines.
CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance
items may result in damage to the vehicle.
302
† This maintenance is recommended by the
manufacturer to the owner, but is not required
to maintain emissions warranty.
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.
Maintenance Schedule – Diesel
Engine
To help you have the best driving experience
possible, the manufacturer has identified the
specific vehicle maintenance service intervals
that are required to keep your vehicle operating
properly and safely.
The manufacturer recommends that these
maintenance intervals be performed at your
selling dealer. The technicians at your dealer-
ship know your vehicle best, and have access
to factory trained information, genuine MO-PA R
parts, and specially designed electronic
and mechanical tools that can help prevent
future costly repairs.
The maintenance intervals shown should be
performed as indicated in this section.
NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 12,500 miles (20 000 km) or
12 months, whichever comes first.
At Each Stop for Fuel
• Check the engine oil level about 15 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 reser-
voir, brake master cylinder, and power steer-
ing and add as needed.
• Check all lights and other electrical items for
correct operation.
At Each Oil Change
• Change the engine oil filter.
• Inspect the brake hoses and lines.
• Inspect for the presence of water in the fuel
filter/water separator unit.
CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance
items may result in damage to the vehicle.
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the Maintenance Schedules on the
following pages for the required maintenance
intervals.
313
Emergency, In Case ofFreeing Vehicle When Stuck ......210
Hazard Warning Flasher ........258
Jacking ..................259
Jump Starting ..............262
Engine Air Cleaner ................276
Break-In Recommendations .......54
Compartment .........270,271,272
Compartment Identification . . 270,271,272
Cooling ..................280
Exhaust Gas Caution .........28,55
Fails to Start ...............202
Flooded, Starting ............202
Fuel Requirements .........240,297
Jump Starting ..............262
Multi-Displacement ...........222
Oil .................. 274,297
Oil Change Interval ...........274
Oil Disposal ...............276
Oil Filter .................276
Oil Selection .......... 274,275,297
Oil Synthetic ...............275
Overheating ...............258
Starting ..................200
Temperature Gauge ...........163
Engine Oil Viscosity ............275 Engine Oil Viscosity Chart
........275
Enhanced Accident Response Feature . . 43
Entry System, Illuminated ..........16
Ethanol ...................241
Event Data Recorder ............45
Exhaust Gas Caution ........28,55,279
Exhaust System ............ 55,278
Exterior Finish Care ............287
Exterior Lights ................57
Filters Air Cleaner ................276
Engine Oil ................276
Finish Care .................287
Flashers ..................258
Hazard Warning .............258
Turn Signal ......... 57,159,294,295
Flipper Glass, Liftgate ...........26
Flooded Engine Starting .........202
Fluid Capacities ..............297
Fluid Leaks .................57
Fluid Level Checks Automatic Transmission ......285,286
Brake ...................283
Engine Oil
................274
Power Steering .............221 Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts . . 298
Fog Light Service
.............294
Fog Lights ............ 109,159,294
Fog Lights, Rear ..............163
Folding Rear Seat .............101
Four Wheel Drive ........... 210,213
Operation ................210
Systems .................210
Four Wheel Drive Operation .......210
Four-Way Hazard Flasher .........258
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle ..........210
Front Axle (Differential) ..........284
Fuel .....................240
Additives .................241
Conserving ...............171
Diesel ..................242
Filler Cap (Gas Cap) ........242,244
Gasoline .................240
Gauge ..................162
Light ...................169
Octane Rating ..............240
Requirements ..............297
Saver Mode ...............171
Tank Capacity ..............297
Fuel System Caution ............243
Fuses ....................290
338