FUEL REQUIREMENTS
This engine is designed to meet all emis-
sions regulations and provide optimum
fuel economy and performance when us-
ing high quality unleaded “Regular” gaso-
line having a posted octane number of 87
as specified by the (R+M)/2 method. The use of higher
octane “Premium” gasoline is not required, as it will not
provide any benefit over “Regular” gasoline in these
engines.
While operating on gasoline with an octane number of
87, hearing a light knocking sound from the engine is not
a cause for concern. However, if the engine is heard
making a heavy knocking sound, see your dealer imme-
diately. Use of gasoline with an octane number lower
than 87 can cause engine failure and may void or not be
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such as hard
starting, stalling, and hesitations. If you experience these
symptoms, try another brand of gasoline before consid-
ering service for the vehicle.
Reformulated Gasoline
Many areas of the country require the use of cleaner
burning gasoline referred to as “Reformulated Gasoline”.
Reformulated gasoline contains oxygenates and are spe-
cifically blended to reduce vehicle emissions and im-
prove air quality.
The use of reformulated gasoline is recommended. Prop-
erly blended reformulated gasoline will provide im-
proved performance and durability of engine and fuel
system components.
498 STARTING AND OPERATING
MMT In Gasoline
Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl (MMT)
is a manganese-containing metallic additive that is
blended into some gasoline to increase octane. Gasoline
blended with MMT provides no performance advantage
beyond gasoline of the same octane number without
MMT. Gasoline blended with MMT reduces spark plug
life and reduces emissions system performance in some
vehicles. The manufacturer recommends that gasoline
without MMT be used in your vehicle. The MMT content
of gasoline may not be indicated on the gasoline pump,
therefore, you should ask your gasoline retailer whether
the gasoline contains MMT. MMT is prohibited in Federal
and California reformulated gasoline.
Materials Added To Fuel
Besides using unleaded gasoline with the proper octane
rating, gasolines that contain detergents, corrosion and
stability additives are recommended. Using gasolinesthat have these additives will help improve fuel
economy, reduce emissions, and maintain vehicle perfor-
mance. Designated TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline con-
tains a higher level of detergents to further aide in
minimizing engine and fuel system deposits. When avail-
able the usage of Top Tier Detergent gasoline is recom-
mended. Visit www.toptiergas.com for a list of TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline Retailers.
Indiscriminate use of fuel system cleaning agents should
be avoided. Many of these materials intended for gum
and varnish removal may contain active solvents or
similar ingredients. These can harm fuel system gasket
and diaphragm materials.
500 STARTING AND OPERATING
Fuel System Cautions
CAUTION!
Follow these guidelines to maintain your vehicle’s
performance:
•The use of leaded gasoline is prohibited by Federal
law. Using leaded gasoline can impair engine per-
formance and damage the emissions control sys-
tem.
• An out-of-tune engine or certain fuel or ignition
malfunctions can cause the catalytic converter to
overheat. If you notice a pungent burning odor or
some light smoke, your engine may be out of tune
or malfunctioning and may require immediate ser-
vice. Contact your authorized dealer for service
assistance.
(Continued)
CAUTION! (Continued)
•The use of fuel additives, which are now being
sold as octane enhancers, is not recommended.
Most of these products contain high concentrations
of methanol. Fuel system damage or vehicle perfor-
mance problems resulting from the use of such
fuels or additives is not the responsibility of the
manufacturer and may void or not be covered
under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
NOTE: Intentional tampering with the emissions control
system can result in civil penalties being assessed against
you.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 501
CAUTION!
Only vehicles with the E-85 fuel filler door label or a
yellow gas cap can operate on E-85.
Ethanol Fuel (E-85)
E-85 is a mixture of approximately 85% ethanol and 15%
unleaded gasoline.
WARNING!
Ethanol vapors are extremely flammable and could
cause serious personal injury. Never have any smok-
ing materials lit or products that can cause spark in or
near the vehicle when removing the fuel filler tube
cap (gas cap) or filling the tank. Do not use E-85 as a
cleaning agent and never use it near an open flame.
Fuel Requirements
If your vehicle is E-85 compatible, it will operate on
unleaded gasoline with any octane rating, or solely E-85
fuel, or any mixture of these fuels.
For best results, avoid fueling patterns alternating
between E-85 and unleaded gasoline.
When switching fuel types:
•Add 5 gallons (19 liters) or more when refueling.
• Drive the vehicle immediately after refueling for at
least 5 miles (8 km).
Observing these precautions will avoid possible hard
starting and/or driveability problems during warm up.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 503
FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS, AND GENUINE PARTS
Engine
ComponentFluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Engine Coolant We recommend you use MOPAR Antifreeze/Coolant
10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula OAT (Organic Additive
Technology).
Engine Oil We recommend you use API Certified SAE 5W-20 En-
gine Oil, meeting the requirements of FCA Material
Standard MS-6395 such as MOPAR, Pennzoil, and
Shell Helix. Refer to your engine oil filler cap for cor-
rect SAE grade.
Engine Oil Filter We recommend you use MOPAR Engine Oil Filter.
Spark Plugs We recommend you use MOPAR Spark Plugs.
Fuel Selection 87 Octane, 0-15% Ethanol.
Fuel Selection – 3.6L Flex Fuel (E85) Engine – If
Equipped 87 Octane, Up To 85% Ethanol.
616 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Flexible Fuel VehiclesCruising Range ........................ .505
Engine Oil ........................... .504
Fuel Requirements ...................502, 503
Maintenance .......................... .505
Replacement Parts ...................... .505
Starting ............................. .504
Flooded Engine Starting ....................427
Floor Console ........................... .277
Fluid, Brake ............................ .618
Fluid Capacities ......................... .614
Fluid Leaks ..............................111
Fluid Level Checks Automatic Transmission ...............588, 590
Brake ........................... .586, 618
Cooling System ........................ .579
Engine Oil ........................... .565
Power Steering ..................... .445, 618
Fluids, Lubricants And Genuine Parts ...........616Fog Lights
.......................... .227, 609
Fog Light Service ........................ .609
Folding Rear Seat ..................... .213, 220
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle .....................550
Fuel .................................. .498
Adding ............................. .505
Additives ............................ .500
Clean Air ............................ .498
Conserving ........................... .332
Ethanol .......................... .499, 502
Filler Cap (Gas Cap) .....................505
Gasoline ............................. .498
Light ............................... .322
Materials Added ....................... .500
Methanol ............................ .499
Octane Rating ..................... .498, 616
Requirements ......................... .498
Saver
Mode .......................... .332
Specifications ......................... .61610
INDEX 645
Luggage Rack (Roof Rack)...................290
Lug Nuts .............................. .530
Maintenance Free Battery ....................569
Maintenance Procedures ....................564
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) . . .314, 562
Manual, Service ......................... .634
Manual Transaxle Fluid Level Check ...................591, 592
Lubricant Selection ...................591, 592
Map/Reading Lights ...................... .231
Marker Lights, Side ....................... .608
Master Cylinder (Brakes) ....................586
Methanol .............................. .499
Mini-Trip Computer ...................... .334
Mirrors .............................119,254
Automatic Dimming .....................119
Electric Powered ....................... .121
Electric Remote ........................ .121Exterior Folding
....................... .123
Heated .............................. .123
Outside ............................. .121
Rearview .............................119
Vanity .............................. .123
Mode Fuel Saver ........................... .332
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle ...............7
Monitor, Tire Pressure System ................490
MOPAR Parts ........................ .563, 633
MTBE/ETBE ........................... .499
Multi-Function Control Lever .................228
New Vehicle Break-In Period .................106
Occupant Restraints ........................46
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel) .............498, 616
Oil Change Indicator ...................... .331
Oil Change Indicator, Reset ..................331
650 INDEX