5. Close the filter access cover.
Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in this section for the
proper maintenance intervals.
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection
WARNING!
•Do not attempt to inspect an accessory drive belt
with vehicle running.
• When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon-
nect the fan motor lead. The fan is temperature
controlled and can start at any time regardless of
ignition mode. You could be injured by the moving
fan blades.
• You can be badly injured working on or around a
motor vehicle. Only do service work for which you
have the knowledge and the proper equipment. If
you have any doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a competent me-
chanic.
When inspecting accessory drive belts, small cracks that
run across ribbed surface of belt from rib to rib, are
considered normal. These are not a reason to replace belt.
However, cracks running along a rib (not across) are not
normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib must be
replaced. Also have the belt replaced if it has excessive
wear, frayed cords or severe glazing.
A/C Air Filter
374 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
fluid level checked. Operating the vehicle with an im-
proper fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an authorized
dealer immediately. Severe transmission damage may
occur. An authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed
Transmission
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at
the factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the life
of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not required. However,
change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contami-
nated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disas-
sembled for any reason.
All Wheel Drive (AWD) — If Equipped
The all wheel drive system consists of a transfer case and
front differential. The exterior surface of these components
should be inspected for evidence of fluid leaks. Confirmed
leaks should be repaired as soon as possible.The transfer case fluid fill/inspection plug is located in the
middle of the rear housing. To inspect the transfer case
fluid level, remove the fill/inspection plug. The fluid level
should be even with the bottom of the hole. Use this plug
to add fluid as required.
The front differential fill plug is located on the outer cover
near the halfshaft attachment. To inspect the differential
fluid level, remove the fill plug. The fluid level should be
even with or slightly below the bottom of the hole.
Fluid Changes
Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in “Servicing And Mainte-
nance” for the proper maintenance intervals.
Rear Axle
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are not
required. When the vehicle is serviced for other reasons the
exterior surfaces of the axle assembly should be inspected.
If gear oil leakage is suspected inspect the fluid level. Refer
to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”
for further information.
RAISING THE VEHICLE
In the case where it is necessary to raise the vehicle, go to
an authorized dealer or service station.
388 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
These indicators are molded into the bottom of the tread
grooves. They will appear as bands when the tread depth
becomes a 1/16 of an inch (1.6 mm). When the tread is
worn to the tread wear indicators, the tire should be
replaced. Refer to “Replacement Tires” in this section for
further information.
Life Of Tire
The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors
including, but not limited to:
•Driving style.
• Tire pressure - Improper cold tire inflation pressures can
cause uneven wear patterns to develop across the tire
tread. These abnormal wear patterns will reduce tread
life, resulting in the need for earlier tire replacement.
• Distance driven.
• Performance tires, tires with a speed rating of V or
higher, and Summer tires typically have a reduced tread
life. Rotation of these tires per the vehicle scheduled
maintenance is highly recommended.
WARNING!
Tires and the spare tire should be replaced after six
years, regardless of the remaining tread. Failure to
follow this warning can result in sudden tire failure.
You could lose control and have a collision resulting in
serious injury or death.
Tire Tread
1—WornTire
2—NewTire
8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 403
CAUTION!
Damage to the vehicle may result if tire chains are
used.
Tire Rotation Recommendations
Tires on the front and rear axles of vehicles operate at
different loads and perform different steering, driving, and
braking functions. For these reasons, they wear at unequal
rates.
These effects can be reduced by timely rotation of tires. The
benefits of rotation are especially worthwhile with aggres-
sive tread designs such as those on all season type tires.
Rotation will increase tread life, help to maintain mud,
snow and wet traction levels, and contribute to a smooth,
quiet ride.
Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in “Servicing And Mainte-
nance” for the proper maintenance intervals. The reasons
for any rapid or unusual wear should be corrected prior to
rotation being performed.
The suggested rotation method is the “rearward cross”
shown in the following diagram. This rotation pattern does
not apply to some directional tires that must not be
reversed.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM
TIRE QUALITY GRADES
The following tire grading categories were established
by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The specific grade rating assigned by the tire’s manu-
facturer in each category is shown on the sidewall of the
tires on your vehicle.
All passenger vehicle tires must conform to Federal
safety requirements in addition to these grades.
Tire Rotation8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 411
Service............................... .307
Traction Control ........................ .152
Turn Signals ....................65, 69, 141, 217
Vanity Mirror ............................64
Warning Instrument Cluster Descriptions . . . .134, 141
Loading Vehicle ........................283, 285
Capacities ............................. .285
Tires................................. .395
Load Shed Battery Saver On ...................129
Load Shed Electrical Load Reduction .............129
Load Shed Intelligent Battery Sensor .............129
Locks Automatic Door ..........................41
Auto Unlock .............................41
Child Protection ..........................41
Power Door .............................36
Low Tire Pressure System .....................166
Lubrication, Body ..........................375
Lug Nuts ............................... .422
Maintenance Free Battery .....................366
Maintenance Schedule .............353, 354, 357, 359
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) . . . .135, 143
Manual, Service ............................532
Media Hub ...............................505 Memory Feature (Memory Seats)
..............43, 47
Memory Seat ............................43, 47
Memory Seats And Radio ...................43, 47
Methanol ............................... .426
Mirrors ..................................60
Electric Powered ..........................62
Electric Remote ...........................62
Heated .................................63
Outside ................................62
Rearview ........................ .60, 61, 301
Vanity .................................64
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle ................5
Monitor, Tire Pressure System ..................166
Mopar Parts ............................. .531
MP3 Control ............................. .505
Multi-Function Control Lever ...................65
New V
ehicle Break-In Period ..................226
Occupant Restraints ........................ .172
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel) ..............424, 432
Oil Change Indicator ........................124
Reset .................................124
Oil, Engine ............................368, 432
Capacity ...............................431
542 INDEX
Safety, Exhaust Gas........................ .214
Safety Information, Tire ..................... .389
Safety Tips ...............................213
Schedule, Maintenance ................353, 354, 357
Seat Belt Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ......179
Seat Belt Reminder ........................ .134
Seat Belts ............................ .173, 215
Adjustable Shoulder Belt ...................179
Adjustable Upper Shoulder Anchorage .........179
Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) ...........182
Child Restraints ........................ .197
Energy Management Feature ................181
Extender ...............................180
Front Seat .......................173, 175, 177
Inspection ............................. .215
Lap/Shoulder Belt Operation ................177
Lap/Shoulder Belts .......................175
Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting ...............179
Operating Instructions .....................177
Pregnant Women ........................ .181
Pretensioners .......................... .181
Rear Seat ............................. .175
Reminder ............................. .174
Seat Belt Extender ........................180 Seat Belt Pretensioner
.....................181
Untwisting Procedure .....................179
Seat Belts Maintenance .......................416
Seats ...............................43, 45, 51
Adjustment .......................... .43, 45
Easy Entry ..............................49
Head Restraints .....................54, 55, 56
Heated .................................51
Height Adjustment ........................45
Memory ................................47
Power .................................45
Rear Folding ..........................43, 53
Seatback
Release.......................43, 53
Tilting ...............................43, 45
Vented .................................52
Ventilated ...............................52
Security Alarm ..........................33, 135
Arm The System ..........................33
Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze) ...............432
Sentry Key Key Programming .........................32
Sentry Key (Immobilizer) ......................31
Sentry Key Replacement ....................24, 32
Service Assistance ..........................528
Service Contract .......................... .530
12
INDEX 545