2011 DODGE DAKOTA engine overheat

CAUTION! (Continued)
•Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your
vehicle is not kept in proper operating condition.
In the event of engine malfunction, particularly
involving engine misfire or other apparent loss of
performance, have your vehicle serviced promptly.
Continued operation of your vehicle with a severe
malfunction could cause the converter to overheat,
resulting in possible damage to the converter and
vehicle.
Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic con-
verter will not require maintenance. However, it is im-
portant to keep the engine properly tuned to assure
proper catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst
damage. NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop
the vehicle, turn off the engine and allow it to cool.
Service, including a tune-up to manufacturer’s specifica-
tions, should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter dam-
age:
•Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition,
when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
•Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the
vehicle.
370 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent the loss of
engine coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that the engine
coolant (antifreeze) will return to the radiator from the
coolant recovery bottle.
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any
accumulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces.
WARNING!
•The warning words “DO NOT OPEN HOT” on the
cooling system pressure cap are a safety precaution.
Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when the
engine is overheated. Do not loosen or remove the
cap to cool an overheated engine. Heat causes
pressure to build up in the cooling system. To
prevent scalding or injury, do not remove the pres-
sure cap while the system is hot or under pressure.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
•Do not use a pressure cap other than the one
specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or en-
gine damage may result.
Disposal Of Used Engine Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) is
a regulated substance, requiring proper disposal. Check
with your local authorities to determine the disposal
rules for your community. To prevent ingestion by ani-
mals or children do not store ethylene glycol-based
engine coolant (antifreeze) in open containers or allow it
to remain in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a child
or pet, seek emergency assistance immediately. Clean up
any ground spills immediately.
374 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Synthetic.......................... 363
Viscosity ........................ 362,401
Onboard Diagnostic System ..............357,358
Opener, Garage Door (HomeLink®) ........... 153
Operator Manual (Owner’s Manual) ............ 4
Outside Rearview Mirrors .................. 87
Overdrive .......................... 182,255
Overdrive OFF Switch .................... 255
Overhead Console .................... 146,147
Overhead Travel Information Center .......... 147
Overheating, Engine ...................... 180
Owner’s Manual (Operator Manual) .........4,427
Panic Alarm ............................ 23
Parking Brake .......................... 271
Parking On Hill ......................... 271
Passing Light ........................... 137
Pets .................................. 75
Pets, Transporting ........................ 75 Phone, Cellular
.......................... 88
Phone, Hands-Free (Uconnect™) .............. 88
Pickup Box ............................ 172
Placard, Tire and Loading Information ......... 280
Power Distribution Center (Fuses) .............. 387
Door Locks ........................ 20,28
Mirrors ............................ 87
Outlet (Auxiliary Electrical Outlet) ........ 160
Steering ........................ 269,270
Windows ........................... 33
Power Steering Fluid ..................... 403
Pregnant Women and Seat Belts .............. 50
Preparation for Jacking .................... 340
Pretensioners Seat Belts ........................... 48
Quad Cab ............................. 132
442 INDEX