Page 59 of 510

compartment and on the ground near the engine compart-
ment and fuel tank before resetting the system and starting
the engine.
Air Bag Warning Light
The air bags must be ready to inflate for your protection ina collision. The Occupant Restraint Controller
(ORC) monitors the internal circuits and inter-
connecting wiring associated with air bag system
electrical components.
The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of
the air bag system whenever the ignition switch is in the
START or ON/RUN position. If the ignition switch is in the
OFF position or in the ACC position, the air bag system is
not on and the air bags will not inflate.
The ORC contains a backup power supply system that may
deploy the air bags even if the battery loses power or it
becomes disconnected prior to deployment.
The ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in the
instrument panel for approximately four to eight seconds
for a self-check when the ignition switch is first in the
ON/RUN position. After the self-check, the Air Bag Warn-
ing Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in
any part of the system, it turns on the Air Bag Warning Light, either momentarily or continuously. A single chime
will sound to alert you if the light comes on again after
initial startup.
The ORC also includes diagnostics that will illuminate the
instrument panel Air Bag Warning Light if a malfunction is
detected that could affect the air bag system. The diagnos-
tics also record the nature of the malfunction. While the air
bag system is designed to be maintenance free, if any of the
following occurs, have an authorized dealer service the air
bag system immediately.
•
The Air Bag Warning Light does not come on during the
four to eight seconds when the ignition switch is first in
the ON/RUN position.
• The Air Bag Warning Light remains on after the four to
eight-second interval.
• The Air Bag Warning Light comes on intermittently or
remains on while driving.
NOTE: If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine
related gauges are not working, the Occupant Restraint
Controller (ORC) may also be disabled. In this condition
the air bags may not be ready to inflate for your protection.
Have an authorized dealer service the air bag system
immediately.
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57
Page 455 of 510

two minutes for the oil to fully drain into the transmission
before rechecking the fluid level.
NOTE:If it is necessary to check the transmission below
the operating temperature, the fluid level should be be-
tween the two COLD (lower) holes on the dipstick with the
fluid at approximately 80°F (27°C). If the fluid level is
correctly established at 80°F (27°C), it should be between
the HOT (upper) reference holes when the transmission
reaches 180°F (82°C). Remember it is best to check the level
at the normal operating temperature.
8. Check for leaks. Release the parking brake.
CAUTION!
•Using a transmission fluid other than the manufactur-
er’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration in
transmission shift quality and/or torque converter shud-
der, and will require more frequent fluid and filter
changes. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in this section for fluid specifications.
• Dirt and water in the transmission can cause serious
damage. To prevent dirt and water from entering the
transmission after checking or replenishing fluid,
make sure that the dipstick cap is re-seated properly.
Fluid Level Check — Six-Speed Automatic
Transmission
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not require
adjustment under normal operating conditions. Routine
fluid level checks are not required, therefore the transmis-
sion filler tube is capped and no dipstick is provided. Your
authorized dealer can check your transmission fluid level
using a special service dipstick. If you notice fluid leakage
or transmission malfunction, visit your authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level checked.
Operating the vehicle with an improper fluid level can
cause severe transmission damage.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your autho-
rized dealer immediately. Severe transmission damage
may occur. Your authorized dealer has the proper tools
to adjust the fluid level accurately.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper main-
tenance intervals.
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 453
Page 501 of 510

Lug Nuts............................... .405
Maintenance Free Battery .....................437
Maintenance Procedures ..................... .434
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) . . . .233, 432
Manual, Service ........................... .488
Manual Transaxle Fluid Level Check ....................... .454
Lubricant Selection ...................... .454
Map/Reading Lights ....................... .172
Marker Lights, Side ........................ .467
Master Cylinder (Brakes) .....................450
Methanol ............................... .381
Mini-Trip Computer ........................ .247
Mirrors .............................. .89, 189
Automatic Dimming .......................89
Electric Powered ..........................90
Electric Remote ...........................90
Exterior Folding ..........................92
Heated .................................92
Outside ................................90
Rearview ...............................89
Vanity .................................93
Mode Fuel Saver ............................ .245Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle
................6
Monitor, Tire Pressure System ..................374
MOPAR Parts ......................... .433, 487
MTBE/ETBE ............................. .381
Multi-Function Control Lever ..................171
New Vehicle Break-In Period ...................80
Occupant Restraints .........................34
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel) ..............380, 473
Oil Change Indicator ....................... .244
Oil Change Indicator, Reset ...................244
Oil, Engine ........................... .434, 473
Capacity .............................. .472
Change Interval ..................... .244, 435
Checking ............................. .434
Dipstick .............................. .434
Disposal .............................. .436
Filter ............................. .437,
473
Filter Disposal .......................... .436
Identification Logo ...................... .435
Materials Added To ...................... .436
Pressure Warning Light ....................230
Recommendation .....................435, 472
Synthetic ............................. .436
10
INDEX 499