the engine after it has sat overnight. Checking
engine oil level when the engine is cold will give
you an incorrect reading.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level
ground and only when the engine is hot, will
improve the accuracy of the oil level readings.
Maintain the oil level between the range mark-
ings on the dipstick. The range markings will
consist of a crosshatch zone that says SAFE or
a crosshatch zone that says MIN at the low end
of the range and MAX at the high end of the
range. Adding one quart of oil when the reading
is at the low end of the indicated range will result
in the oil level at the full end of the indicator
range.
CAUTION!
Do not overfill the engine. Overfilling the
engine will cause oil aeration, which can lead
to loss of oil pressure and an increase in oil
temperature. This could damage your en-
gine. Also, be sure the oil fill cap is replaced
and tightened after adding oil.Change Engine Oil – All Engines
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
Engine Oil Selection
For best performance and maximum protection
under all types of operating conditions, the manu-
facturer only recommends engine oils that are API
certified and meet the requirements of FCA Ma-
terial Standard MS-6395 or ACEA A1/B1.
American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine
Oil Identification Symbol
This symbol means that
the oil has been certified
by the American Petro-
leum Institute (API). The
manufacturer only rec-
ommends API Certified
engine oils.
This symbol certifies 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30,
5W-30 and 10W-30 engine oils.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your engine
oil as the chemicals can damage your en-
gine. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Engine Oil Viscosity (SAE Grade)
MOPAR SAE 5W-20 engine oil is recom-
mended for all operating temperatures. This
engine oil improves low temperature starting
and vehicle fuel economy.
The engine oil filler cap also shows the recom-
mended engine oil viscosity for your engine. For
information on engine oil filler cap location, refer
to “Engine Compartment” in “Maintaining Your
Vehicle” for further information.
NOTE:
MOPAR SAE 5W-30 engine oil approved to
FCA MS-6395 or FCA Material Standard
9.55535-CR1 may be used when SAE 5W-20
engine oil meeting FCA MS-6395 or FCA
Material Standard 9.55535-CR1 is not avail-
able.
257
Synthetic Engine Oils
There are a number of engine oils being pro-
moted as either synthetic or semi-synthetic. If
you chose to use such a product, use only those
oils that are approved to FCA MS-6395 or FCA
Material Standard 9.55535-CR1. Follow the
maintenance schedule that describes your driv-
ing type.
Materials Added To Engine Oil
The manufacturer strongly recommends
against the addition of any additives (other than
leak detection dyes) to the engine oil. Engine oil
is an engineered product and its performance
may be impaired by supplemental additives.
Disposing Of Used Engine Oil And Oil
Filters
Care should be taken in disposing of used
engine oil and oil filters from your vehicle. Used
oil and oil filters, indiscriminately discarded, can
present a problem to the environment. Contact
your authorized dealer, service station or gov-
ernmental agency for advice on how and where
used oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in
your area.Engine Oil FilterThe engine oil filter should be replaced with a
new filter at every engine oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
This manufacturer’s engines have a full-flow
type oil filter. Use a filter of this type for replace-
ment. The quality of replacement filters varies
considerably. Only high quality filters should be
used to assure most efficient service. MOPAR
engine oil filters are a high quality oil filter and
are recommended.
Engine Air Cleaner FilterRefer to the “Maintenance Schedule” in the
“Maintenance Schedules” section for the proper
maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
The air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc.) can provide a measure of protection in
the case of engine backfire. Do not remove
the air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc.) unless such removal is necessary for
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
repair or maintenance. Make sure that no
one is near the engine compartment before
starting the vehicle with the air induction
system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) removed.
Failure to do so can result in serious per-
sonal injury.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement engine air cleaner
filters varies considerably. Only high quality
filters should be used to assure most efficient
service. MOPAR engine air cleaner filters are a
high quality filter and are recommended.
Maintenance-Free BatteryYour vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-
free battery. You will never have to add water,
nor is periodic maintenance required.
258
CAUTION!(Continued)
Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling
R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydro-
fluorocarbon (HFC) that is endorsed by the
Environmental Protection Agency and is an
ozone-saving product. However, the manufac-
turer recommends that air conditioning service
be performed by authorized dealer or other
service facilities using recovery and recycling
equipment.
NOTE:
Use only manufacturer approved A/C sys-
tem PAG compressor oil and refrigerants.
A/C Air Filter
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
Do not remove the A/C air filter while the
vehicle is running, or while the ignition is in
the ACC or ON/RUN mode. With the A/C air
filter removed and the blower operating, the
blower can contact hands and may propel
dirt and debris into your eyes, resulting in
personal injury.
The A/C air filter is located in the fresh air inlet
behind the glove compartment. Perform the
following procedure to replace the filter:
1. Open the glove compartment and remove all
contents.
2. Push in on the sides of the glove compart-
ment and lower the door.
3. Pivot the glove compartment downward.
4. Disengage the two retaining tabs that secure
the filter cover to the HVAC housing, and
remove the cover.5. Remove the A/C air filter by pulling it straight
out of the housing.
6. Install the A/C air filter with the arrow on the
filter pointing toward the floor. When install-
ing the filter cover, make sure the retaining
tabs fully engage the cover.
A/C Air Filter Replacement
260
CAUTION!
The A/C air filter is identified with an arrow to
indicate airflow direction through the filter.
Failure to properly install the filter will result
in the need to replace it more often.
7. Rotate the glove compartment door back
into position.
Body LubricationLocks 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 application 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 at-
tention should also be given to hood latching
components to ensure proper function. When
performing other underhood services, the hoodlatch, 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 di-
rectly into the lock cylinder.
Windshield Wiper BladesClean 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 wind-
shield.
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 de-
pending on geographical area and fre-
quency of use. Poor performance of blades
may be present with chattering, marks, wa-
ter lines or wet spots. If any of these condi-
tions are present, clean the wiper blades or
replace as necessary.Adding Washer FluidThe washer fluid reservoir is located in the
engine compartment, and the fluid level should
be checked at regular intervals. Fill the reservoir
with windshield washer solvent only (not radia-
tor antifreeze).
When refilling the washer fluid reservoir, take
some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or
towel and wipe clean the wiper blades, this will
help blade performance. To prevent freeze-up
of your windshield washer system in cold
weather, select a solution or mixture that meets
or exceeds the temperature range of your cli-
mate. This rating information can be found on
most washer fluid containers.
261
WARNING!
Commercially available windshield washer
solvents are flammable. They could ignite
and burn you. Care must be exercised when
filling or working around the washer solution.
Exhaust SystemThe best protection against carbon monoxide
entry into the vehicle body is a properly main-
tained engine exhaust system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the
exhaust system; or if the exhaust fumes can be
detected inside the vehicle; or when the under-
side or rear of the vehicle is damaged; have an
authorized technician inspect the complete ex-
haust system and adjacent body areas for bro-
ken, damaged, deteriorated, or mispositioned
parts. Open seams or loose connections could
permit exhaust fumes to seep into the passen-
ger compartment. In addition, have the exhaust
system inspected each time the vehicle is
raised for lubrication or oil change. Replace as
required.
WARNING!
•Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They
contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is
colorless and odorless. Breathing it can
make you unconscious and can eventually
poison you. To avoid breathing CO, refer to
“Safety Tips/Exhaust Gas” in “Things To
Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for
further information.
•A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such
materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system. Do
not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact
anything that can burn.CAUTION!
•The catalytic converter requires the use of
unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will
destroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as
an emissions control device and may seri-
ously reduce engine performance and
cause serious damage to the engine.
•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 perfor-
mance, have your vehicle serviced
promptly. Continued operation of your ve-
hicle 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
converter will not require maintenance. How-
ever, it is important to keep the engine properly
tuned to assure proper catalyst operation and
prevent possible catalyst damage.
262
WARNING!
•Use only manufacturer’s recommended
brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants,
And Genuine Parts” in “Maintaining Your
Vehicle” for further information. Using the
wrong type of brake fluid can severely
damage your brake system and/or impair
its performance. The proper type of brake
fluid for your vehicle is also identified on
the original factory installed hydraulic mas-
ter cylinder reservoir.
•To avoid contamination from foreign matter
or moisture, use only new brake fluid or
fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container. Keep the master cylinder reser-
voir cap secured at all times. Brake fluid in
a open container absorbs moisture from
the air resulting in a lower boiling point.
This may cause it to boil unexpectedly
during hard or prolonged braking, resulting
in sudden brake failure. This could result in
a collision.
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
•Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can
result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine
parts, causing the brake fluid to catch fire.
Brake fluid can also damage painted and
vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
•Do not allow petroleum based fluid to
contaminate the brake fluid. Brake seal
components could be damaged, causing
partial or complete brake failure. This
could result in a collision.
CAUTION!
Use of improper brake fluids will affect over-
all clutch system performance. Improper
brake fluids may damage the clutch system
resulting in loss of clutch function and the
ability to shift the transmission.
Automatic Transmission (6-Speed)
— If Equipped
Selection Of Lubricant — 6-Speed
Transmission
It is important to use the proper transmission
fluid to ensure optimum transmission perfor-
mance and life. Use only the manufacturer’s
specified transmission fluid. Refer to “Fluids,
Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in this section
for fluid specifications. It is important to maintain
the transmission fluid at the correct level using
the recommended fluid.
No chemical flushes should be used in any
transmission; only the approved lubricant
should be used.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may
cause deterioration in transmission shift
quality and/or torque converter shudder. Re-
fer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in this section for fluid specifications.
267
Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug.
The fluid level should be between the bottom of
the fill hole and a point not more than 3/16 inch
(4.7 mm) below the bottom of the hole.
Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper
level.
Please see your authorized dealer for service.
Frequency Of Fluid Change
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will give satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle. Fluid
changes are not necessary unless lubricant has
become contaminated with water.
NOTE:
If contaminated with water, the fluid should
be changed immediately.Rear Drive Assembly (RDA) —
AWD/4WD Models Only
Lubricant Selection
Use only the manufacturer’s recommended
fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further
information.
Fluid Level Check
Visually inspect the unit at each oil change for
leakage. If leakage is detected, check the fluid
level by removing the fill plug. The fluid level
should be maintained between the bottom of
the fill hole to 1/8 inch (4 mm) below the fill hole.
Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper
level.
Frequency Of Fluid Change
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) —
AWD/4WD Models Only
Lubricant Selection
Use only the manufacturer’s recommended
fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further
information.
Fluid Level Check
Visually inspect the unit at each oil change for
leakage. If leakage is detected, Check the fluid
level by removing the fill plug. The fluid level
should be maintained between the bottom of
the fill hole to 1/8 inch (4 mm) below the fill hole.
Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper
level.
Frequency Of Fluid Change
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
270
paired as soon as possible. The cost of such
repairs is considered the responsibility of the
owner.
•If you carry special cargo such as chemicals,
fertilizers, de-icer salt, etc., be sure that such
materials are well packaged and sealed.
•If a lot of driving is done on gravel roads,
consider mud or stone shields behind each
wheel.
•Use MOPAR Touch Up Paint on scratches as
soon as possible. Your authorized dealer has
touch up paint to match the color of your
vehicle.
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care
•All wheels and wheel trim, especially alumi-
num and chrome plated wheels, should be
cleaned regularly with a mild soap and water
to prevent corrosion.
•To remove heavy soil and/or excessive brake
dust, use MOPAR Wheel Cleaner.NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with Dark Vapor
or Black Satin Chrome wheels DO NOT USE
wheel cleaners, abrasives or polishing com-
pounds. They will permanently damage this
finish and such damage is not covered by
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. USE
ONLY MILD SOAP AND WATER WITH A
SOFT CLOTH. Used on a regular basis this is
all that is required to maintain this finish.
CAUTION!
Do not use scouring pads, steel wool, a
bristle brush, or metal polishes. Do not use
oven cleaner. These products may damage
the wheel’s protective finish. Avoid automatic
car washes that use acidic solutions or harsh
brushes that may damage the wheel’s pro-
tective finish. Only MOPAR Wheel Cleaner
or equivalent is recommended.Stain Repel Fabric Cleaning Procedure —
If Equipped
Stain Repel seats may be cleaned in the follow-
ing manner:
•Remove as much of the stain as possible by
blotting with a clean, dry towel.
•Blot any remaining stain with a clean, damp
towel.
•For tough stains, apply MOPAR Total Clean,
or a mild soap solution to a clean, damp cloth
and remove stain. Use a fresh, damp towel to
remove soap residue.
•For grease stains, apply MOPAR Multi-
Purpose Cleaner to a clean, damp cloth and
remove stain. Use a fresh, damp towel to
remove soap residue.
•Do not use any harsh solvents or any other
form of protectants on Stain Repel products.
Interior Care
Use MOPAR Total Clean to clean fabric uphol-
stery and carpeting.
272