CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system at the end
of the steering wheel travel will increase the steering
fluid temperature and it should be avoided when
possible. Damage to the power steering pump may
occur.
Power Steering Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined service
interval is not required. The fluid should only be checked
if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are apparent,
and/or the system is not functioning as anticipated. Coor-
dinate inspection efforts through an authorized dealer.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your power steering
system as the chemicals can damage your power steer-
ing components. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and
with the engine off to prevent injury from moving
parts and to ensure accurate fluid level reading. Do not
overfill. Use only manufacturer’s recommended power
steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all
surfaces. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts”
in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.
PARKING BRAKE
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking
brake is fully applied.
The parking brake lever is located on the outboard side of
the drivers seat. To apply the parking brake, pull the lever
up as firmly as possible. To release the parking brake, pull
the lever up slightly, push the release button with your
thumb, then lower the lever completely.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 189
WARNING!(Continued)
vehicle control could occur that may result in an
accident involving serious injury or death.
• Access, or allow others to access, information
stored in your vehicle systems, including personal
information.
For further information, refer to “Cybersecurity” in the
“Understanding Your Instrument Panel” section.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message
If the vehicle diagnostic system determines that the fuel
filler cap is loose, improperly installed, or damaged, a
“Check fuel cap” message will be displayed in the instru-
ment cluster display. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display”
in ”Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further
information. Tighten the gas cap until a clickingsound is
heard. This is an indication that the gas cap is properly
tightened.
Push the odometer reset button to turn the message off. If
the problem persists, the message will appear the next time
the vehicle is started. This might indicate a damaged cap. If
the problem is detected twice in a row, the system will turn
on the MIL. Resolving the problem will turn the MIL light
off.
EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMS
In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an
inspection of your vehicle’s emissions control system.
Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.
For states that require an Inspection and Mainte-
nance (I/M), this check verifies the “Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL)” is functioning and is not on
when the engine is running, and that the OBD II system is
ready for testing.
Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The OBD II
system may notbe ready if your vehicle was recently
serviced, recently had a dead battery or a battery replace-
ment. If the OBD II system should be determined not ready
for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test.
Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated test, which you
can use prior to going to the test station. To check if your
vehicle’s OBD II system is ready, you must do the following:
1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, but do not crank or start the engine.
NOTE: If you crank or start the engine, you will have to
start this test over.
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 279
2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to the ONposition, you will see the “Malfunction Indicator Light
(MIL)” symbol come on as part of a normal bulb check.
3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will happen:
• The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds and then return
to being fully illuminated until you turn OFF the igni-
tion or start the engine. This means that your vehicle’s
OBD II system is not readyand you should notproceed
to the I/M station.
• The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully
illuminated until you place the ignition in the off posi-
tion or start the engine. This means that your vehicle’s
OBD II system is readyand you can proceed to the I/M
station.
If your OBD II system is not ready,you should see your
authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle was
recently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement,
you may need to do nothing more than drive your vehicle
as you normally would in order for your OBD II system to
update. A recheck with the above test routine may then
indicate that the system is now ready. Regardless of whether your vehicle’s OBD II system is
ready or not, if the MIL is illuminated during normal
vehicle operation you should have your vehicle serviced
before going to the I/M station. The I/M station can fail
your vehicle because the MIL is on with the engine
running.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Use of genuine MOPAR parts for normal/scheduled main-
tenance and repairs is highly recommended to ensure the
designed performance. Damage or failures caused by the
use of non-MOPAR parts for maintenance and repairs will
not be covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
DEALER SERVICE
Your authorized dealer has the qualified service personnel,
special tools, and equipment to perform all service opera-
tions in an expert manner. Service Manuals are available
which include detailed service information for your ve-
hicle. Refer to these Service Manuals before attempting any
procedure yourself.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control sys-
tems may void your warranty and could result in civil
penalties being assessed against you.
280 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as
seat tracks, door hinge pivot points and rollers, liftgate,
tailgate, decklid, sliding doors and hood hinges, should be
lubricated periodically with a lithium based grease, such as
MOPAR Spray White Lube to assure quiet, easy operation
and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the applica-
tion of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be wiped
clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating excess oil
and grease should be removed. Particular attention should
also be given to hood latching components to ensure
proper function. When performing other underhood ser-
vices, 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 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 nonabrasive cleaner. This will 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 remove 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 depending
on geographical area and frequency of use. Poor perfor-
mance of blades may be present with chattering, marks,
water lines or wet spots. If any of these conditions are
present, clean the wiper blades or replace as necessary.
Adding Washer Fluid
The fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment
and should be checked at regular intervals. Fill the reser-
voir with windshield washer solvent (not radiator anti-
freeze) and operate the system for a few seconds to flush
out any residual water.
The washer fluid reservoir will hold a full gallon of fluid
when the Low Washer Fluid Light illuminates.
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 289
•If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are
required, the cooling system should be pressure tested
for leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a
minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) and distilled water for proper corrosion pro-
tection of your engine which contains aluminum com-
ponents.
• Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow
hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is
equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY
the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in
unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically. Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper maintenance
intervals.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possi-
bly a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding
on the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible
brake damage. You would not have your full braking
capacity in an emergency.
Master Cylinder — Brake Fluid Level Check
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing underhood services, or immediately if
the “Brake System Warning Light” indicates system failure.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing
the cap. Add fluid to bring the level up to the top of the
“FULL” mark on the side of the master cylinder reservoir.
Overfilling of fluid is not recommended because it may
cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the level up to the requirements
described on the brake fluid reservoir. With disc brakes,
294 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:
•Check engine oil level
• Check windshield washer fluid level
• Check the tire inflation pressures and look for unusual
wear or damage
• Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, and power steering and fill as needed
• Check function of all interior and exterior lights
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the maintenance schedules on the following page
for the required maintenance intervals.At Every Oil Change Interval As Indicated By Oil Change Indicator System:
•Change oil and filter.
• Rotate the tires. Rotate at the first sign of irregular
wear, even if it occurs before the oil indicator
system turns on.
• Inspect battery and clean and tighten terminals as
required.
• Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, hoses and
park brake.
• Inspect engine cooling system protection and hoses.
• Inspect exhaust system.
• Inspect engine air cleaner if using in dusty or
off-road conditions. 8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 321
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze).............291
Adding Fuel ............................. .227
Adding Washer Fluid ....................... .289
Additives, Fuel ........................... .225
AirBag ..................................31 Air Bag Operation .........................33
Enhanced Accident Response ................274
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .................274
If A Deployment Occurs ....................37
Knee Impact Bolsters .......................34
Maintaining Your Air Bag System ..............41
Air Bag Light .......................... .51, 103
Air Bag Maintenance .........................41
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) ......284
Air Conditioner Maintenance ..................286
Air Conditioning Filter ...................164, 287
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips ............163, 165
Air Conditioning Refrigerant ...............286, 287
Air Conditioning System .....................286
Air Pressure, Tires ......................... .209
Alarm (Security Alarm) .......................14
Alarm System (Security Alarm) .................14
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle ................7
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ................291, 315
Disposal .............................. .293Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
.................191
Anti-Lock Warning Light .....................117
Appearance Care .......................... .297
Assist, Hill Start .......................... .197
Auto Down Power Windows ...................19
Automatic Door Locks ........................18
Automatic Transaxle .........................11
Automatic Transmission ..................177, 297
Adding Fluid ....................... .296, 297
Fluid And Filter Changes ...................297
Fluid Change .......................... .297
Fluid Level Check ....................... .296
Fluid Type ......................... .295, 317
Gear Ranges ........................... .180
Special
Additives ........................ .296
Battery .............................. .104, 286
Charging System Light ....................104
Keyless Key Fob Replacement ................16
Belts, Seat .................................51
Body Builders Guide ..........................6
Body Mechanism Lubrication ..................289
B-Pillar Location .......................... .204
Brake Assist System ........................ .193
Brake Control System, Electronic ................191
334 INDEX
Brake Fluid.............................. .317
Brake, Parking ............................ .189
Brake System ......................... .191, 294
Anti-Lock (ABS) ........................ .191
Fluid Check ........................... .294
Parking .............................. .189
Warning Light .......................... .107
Brake/Transmission Interlock ..................179
Bulb Replacement .......................311,312
Bulbs, Light ........................... .53, 311
Camera, Rear ..............................89
Capacities, Fluid .......................... .315
Caps, Filler Fuel ................................. .227
Power Steering ......................... .189
Radiator (Coolant Pressure) .................292
Carbon Monoxide Warning .................50, 226
Cargo Light ...............................78
Car Washes .............................. .297
Cellular Phone ........................... .157
Certification Label ......................... .228
Chains, Tire ............................. .217
Chart, Tire Sizing .......................... .200
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light). . . .279 Checking Your Vehicle For Safety
................50
Checks, Safety .............................50
Child Restraint .............................42
Child Restraints Booster Seats ............................45
Child Restraints ..........................42
Child Seat Installation ......................48
Infants And Child Restraints .................44
Older Children And Child Restraints ...........44
Clean Air Gasoline ........................ .223
Climate Control ........................... .157
Cold Weather Operation ..................... .176
Compact Disc (CD) Maintenance ................156
Compact Spare Tire ........................ .212
Console, Overhead ..........................91
Contract, Service .......................... .328
Coolant
Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) .............292
Cooling System ........................... .290
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze) .................291
Coolant Capacity ........................ .315
Coolant Level ....................... .290, 293
Disposal Of Used Coolant ..................293
Drain, Flush, And Refill ....................290
Inspection ............................. .293
Points To Remember ..................... .29310
INDEX 335